Taylor County, Iowa obituaries
 
 
 

Palmer, Gladys Elizabeth Firkins - Funeral services for Gladys Palmer, age 99 of Corning, who died Tuesday, February 1, 2005, at the Corning Nursing & Rehab Center were held Monday, February 7, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning with Reverend Andy Rubenking officiating. Interment was held in the Oakland Cemetery in Quincy. Memorials can be directed to the United Methodist Church of Corning. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Gladys Elizabeth Palmer was born February 10, 1905, in Taylor County, Iowa the daughter of Thomas Clinton Firkins and Elizabeth Duer Firkins. She grew up on the family farm in Holt Township attending rural schools. When it came time for her to attend high school, Gladys lived part-time with a lady in Corning until she graduated with the Class of 1923. She taught country school in the Gus area for eight years. On December 24, 1930, she was united in marriage to Arthur A. Palmer in Omaha, Nebraska. The couple farmed in the Bushville area until 1962, when they moved to Corning. Gladys worked as a cook at the coffee shop and at Steffens for many years. This was truly a job she enjoyed! Her health was always good and she enjoyed helping care for other people, often times many years younger than herself! Gladys lived at home until she was 99½ years old when she entered the Corning Nursing & Rehab Center.

Gladys was a member of the Corning United Methodist Church for over forty years. She had been a member of the Fairview Church. She was actively involved with the Pythian Sisters, having served in various capacities. She truly enjoyed the farm and the lifestyle it provided. She always had a large garden and continued it even when she moved to town. She baked and cooked and made excellent homemade noodles. Gladys kept busy knitting, crocheting and enjoyed playing cards and working crossword puzzles. Arthur and Gladys were happy to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 1980. After Arthur’s death in 1983, she traveled around the country with groups. She was a people person and liked involvement with others. Her family was always the most important to her and she wanted to be active in their lives.

Left to cherish her memory are her three daughters, Lois Nadine Van Buren and husband Jerry of Sedalia, Missouri; Barbara Lea Schafroth of Corning; and Beverly Jean Knievel and husband Terry of Phoenix, Arizona; a sister-in-law, Fern Firkins of Villisca; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Preceding Gladys in death are her parents; her husband Arthur in 1983; a son-in-law, David Schafroth; and six brothers, Paul, Wayne, Boyd, Dean, Don and Burton.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

 

Parcher, Dale Andrew - Funeral services for Dale Andrew Parcher, age 88, of Corning, who died Friday, June 20, 2008, at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning, will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home in Corning. Visitation will be Monday from 3 to 7 with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7. Interment will be held in the Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Corning Presbyterian Church or the Hospice Program at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Roland-Ritchie Funeral Home of Corning.

Dale Andrew Parcher was born to Frederick and Beulah (Brown) Parcher on May 1, 1920, at the family home in Guss, Iowa. He passed away on June 20, 2008, at the age of 88 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning.

“Andy” attended school in Brooks, Nodaway, and Red Oak. As a young man, he worked in a coal mine and as a farm hand for a short time before enlisting in the United States Army in 1941. He proudly served two years in the Infantry before transferring to the 337th Bombardment Squadron of the Air Corp. He flew 23 Missions as a Tail Gunner on a B-17 Bomber, surviving a crash along with all his crew members. After being honorably discharged in 1945, he was united in marriage to Dolores Gaskill in 1946 at the home of her parents in Corning, Iowa. Andy was employed by the Corning Coop Creamery, Nodaway Valley Foods in Corning, Real Fresh in Visalia, California and Archies Creek, Australia, and the Corning Community School District, retiring nearly twenty-five years ago. After his retirement, and during his later years, he and Dolores enjoyed traveling, visiting family and friends as they camped along the way, and continuing his life-long passion with harness horse racing.

Andy will be remembered as a ‘friend ready to lend a hand’ and ‘bend an ear’ as he told stories of growing up in and around Adams County. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and was as smitten with his wife “Dee” as he was the first day he saw her as she roller skated past his father’s barber shop!

Left to cherish Andy’s memory are his loving wife of 62 years, Dolores Parcher of Corning; four children, Charlene Ira and husband Paul of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Jacque Rooney and husband Lawrence of St. Paul, Minnesota; Jill Morrison of Omaha, Nebraska; and Scott Parcher and wife Barb (Sullivan) of Carroll, Iowa; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Andy in death are his parents Fred and Beulah Parcher, a brother and sister-in-law LeRoy and Leona (Spring) Parcher, and a sister and brother-in-law Margaret (Parcher) and Max McConnell.

The memories that were made by Andy throughout the years,
will remain in our hearts forever.

 

Paxton, Kay Elaine Blake - Kay Elaine was born August 9, 1950 in Clarinda, Iowa to Robert Leroy Blake and Beatrice Faye (Boyd) Blake. She graduated Bedford High School and earned an LPN degree at Hillyard Technical School, St. Joseph, Mo. With her nursing degree she worked and traveled through Iowa, Missouri, California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. She was married to John Paxton and they have a daughter, Chastity.

Kay enjoyed gardening and had a green thumb when it came to plants. She was especially known for growing peppers. While living in Gravity she was a member of the Gravity American Legion Auxiliary.

She is survived by her daughter, Chastity Wilson and husband Bruce and their children Emily, Jared, and Sara; mother, Beatrice Blake of Keota, Iowa; brothers, Richard Blake and wife Judy of Gravity, Iowa, Robert Edward Blake and wife Tami of Farragut, Iowa; sister, Patti Redinger and husband Steve of Fairfield, Iowa; nieces, nephews, friends, and her dog, Charlie.

Kay passed away Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda, Iowa, at the age of 59.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert.

Services were held Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa, with Rev. Loren Daly officiating. Memorials are suggested to a fund established in Kay's name. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel provided arrangements. www.EFC.cc.

 

Pennebaker, Bessie Jane Evelyn Brand - Funeral services for Bessie (Mrs. Doc) Pennebaker, age 99, of Lenox, who died Friday, April 6, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Monday, April 9, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church. Interment will be held at West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Lenox School for Scholarships. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Bessie Jane Evelyn (Brand) Pennebaker was born August 7, 1907, in rural Sharpsburg, the daughter of George Brand and Lilly (Stevens) Brand. Bessie was a life-long Taylor County resident. She grew up attending rural schools in the Sharpsburg area. Her family later moved into Sharpsburg where she attended high school. On June 14, 1924, she was united in marriage to Dr. E. R. Pennebaker at the United Methodist Parsonage in Bedford. Doc and Bessie moved to Lenox in 1924, and to this loving union two children, Roland and Dorthy Mae, were born.

Bessie and Doc withstood bank failures, bank holiday, cinch bugs, grasshoppers and drought throughout their entire lives while living in Taylor County. Together they enjoyed many wonderful trips, going to Europe five times and once to Japan. They also enjoyed traveling through all 51 states in the United States, including Mexico and South America. They even had time to fit in a several cruises! Bessie had been a member of both the United Methodist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star for 83 years. Bessie was an excellent card player, a pastime she truly enjoyed. She was a tremendous housekeeper, cook and letter writer. She always made family events a priority, and tried to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and a big event at Christmas time. One such anniversary was made extra special by her granddaughter Kari’s wedding in 2003. She was thrilled to ride in a limo for the first time in her life that day! Her passion was her family; she particularly enjoyed the special visits with each of the grandkids and great-grandkids. Roland’s children remember when they called them “Big Grandma and Big Grandpa”. Whenever relatives came to visit, they always stayed at the Pennebakers. Bessie had a great sense of humor and was known to ‘play a joke or two’. It was truly a special time for both Bessie and Doc when they were the Grand Marshals at the Lenox Rodeo Parade in 2004.

Left to cherish Bessie’s memory are her son Roland Pennebaker and wife MaryLou of Creston; a daughter Dorthy Mae Basler and husband Robert of Lenox; five grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Bessie in death are parents; her husband Doc in June of 2005; five sisters; and a great-grandson Murphy Fry in 2003.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Bessie’s passing.

 

Pennebaker, E.R. - Funeral services for Dr. E. R. Pennebaker, age 102, of Lenox, who died Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at the Lenox Care Center were held Saturday, June 25, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. at the Lenox United Methodist Church. Interment will be held at West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. In lieu of flowers memorials can be directed to the E.R. Pennebaker Lenox School Scholarship Fund. Please leave a message of tribute to the Pennebaker family on our web page, www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Dr. E. R. Pennebaker was the sixth son born to D. S. and Lydia (Souder) Pennebaker at their home place west of the Sharpsburg Schoolhouse on August 10, 1902. He grew up attending school in Sharpsburg. He then worked on the railroad and at the Green House in Shenandoah. He entered Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa and graduated in July of 1922. He purchased the home and practice of Dr. Norman, a chiropractor in Lenox, in December of 1923. On June 14, 1924, he was united in marriage to Bessie Brand at the United Methodist Parsonage in Bedford. To this loving union two children, Roland and Dorthy Mae, were born.

Doc and Bessie have withstood bank failure, bank holiday, cinch bugs, grasshoppers and drought throughout their entire lives living in Taylor County. They have enjoyed many wonderful trips going to Europe five times and once to Japan. They have enjoyed traveling all over the United States, Mexico and South America. They even had time to fit in a Caribbean Cruise! He was a member of the United Methodist Church for eighty-one years and an eighty-year member of the Masonic Lodge. He had also been a Lenox Rotary member.

Last week Dr. Pennebaker and his wife Bessie celebrated their 81st Wedding Anniversary. Making them the longest married couple on record … and they even made the Guinness Book of World Records for their marriage! Their greatest joy in life were their children and grandchildren (great and great-greats too!) They tried to celebrated birthdays and anniversaries and a big event at Christmas time. Doc had a great sense of humor and enjoyed playing tricks and pranks on people. He was truly passionate about the Chiropractic field. He enjoyed bowling for many years and he also played some golf. He was a true believer of supporting the Lenox Community.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Bessie of Lenox; a son, Roland Pennebaker and wife MaryLou of Creston; a daughter, Dorthy Mae Basler and husband Robert of Lenox; five grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; six brothers; one sister; a daughter-in-law Dorothy in 1984; and a great-grandson Murphy Fry in 2003.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

Perdew, Otis "Odie" - Funeral services for Otis Perdew, age 67 of Conway, who died Monday, June 23, 2008 at his home were held Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Life Missionary Church in Bedford. Interment was held in the Washington Cemetery in Gravity. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Otis "Odie" was born July 6, 1940 to Leonard and Marie (Jackson) Perdew in Gravity, Iowa. The second child of six, he lived in and attended school throughout southwest Iowa, graduating in 1959 from the last graduating class at Conway High School. As the oldest boy of the brood, Odie's childhood is riddled with stories of mischief and orneriness and many times, he was the ringleader. A favorite childhood story always told on Odie was when he and his siblings nearly burned down the barn by burning away cobwebs inside the hay tunnels - rest assured, yet another spanking was had by all.

After graduation, he went off to work, and in his travels met his future bride, L. Jeanette Small, in northeast Missouri. They married September 22, 1963 and began a family that spanned five children over 21 years. To this loving couple, a brood was born, Chris Annette, Curtis Lee, Lana Renee, Torrie Tee and Amber Colette. His biggest accomplishment as a father was raising five independent free thinkers that followed his example by working hard, doing the right thing, and standing up for what they believe in.

Odie worked his entire career as a heavy equipment operator primarily as a bulldozer driver. He spent several years in different parts of the country working, but returned to Iowa to settle his family. He worked for several years for United Construction in Missouri building roadways, where he acquired numerous lifelong friends. In 1978, he began working for Perdew Construction, owned by his younger brother, Dennis where they worked side by side for 13 years. In 1991, he went to work with his son, Curtis, at Con-Struct in Ames, Iowa where Curtis continues to work to this day. Odie was very proud of the skill that Curtis developed operating heavy equipment and was not afraid to brag about his accomplishments doing so. Odie worked there until a heart attack forced his retirement in 2002.

Outside of work, Odie was an avid hunter and fisherman. His family regularly feasted on pheasant, quail, deer, and catfish. Everyone would have to admit, that turkeys were his favorite. He loved to ice fish and other winter activities included coyote hunting with his brothers, kids and friends. Otis and Jeanette liked hunting together, so one morning they went out to hunt, with only two shells left. Otis said, “that will get us three pheasants!” You can guess what Jeanette said . . .well, guess what, they came home with three pheasants!

Odie loved old cars and John Deere tractors, however, he probably most prized his Harley Davidson, and road a lot of miles with his brothers and buddies on the open road. Years later, he spent many hours getting his Harley back into riding shape with his girls, Torrie and Amber, at his side.

Odie appreciated a fine western movie and was probably most fond of John Wayne. He also enjoyed spending time with Jeanette especially their evenings spent playing Bingo. He wouldn't ever admit his soft spot for animals, but his three dogs were with him up until his very last moments.

He is preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Marie Perdew and two brother-in-laws Dale Beemer and Dennis O. Small, Jr.

Left to treasure his memory is his wife of 44 years, L. Jeanette Perdew of Conway, Iowa; daughter Chris Norton and fiancé John Monahan of Gladstone, Missouri; son Curtis Perdew and wife Lori of State Center, Iowa; daughter Lana Rickabaugh and fiancé Gene Cease of Maryville, Missouri; daughter Torrie Booher and husband Darrell of Gladstone, Missouri; daughter Amber Reed and husband Cole of Lenox; seven grandchildren, Laicey Norton, Remmington Monahan, Allison and Mackenzie Perdew, Seth and Tanner Rickabaugh, and Tayen Booher; two sisters, Norma Finnell and husband Walter of Conway and Zonette Beemer of Conway; three brothers, Olin "Stub" Perdew of Clearfield, Dennis Perdew of Conway, and Terry Perdew and friend Lolinda Campbell of Creston; an uncle Robert Perdew and wife Joann of Bedford; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a countryside full of friends.

Otis was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather,
brother, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend.
His quick wit, warm smile and friendship will be sadly missed by his entire family and many, many friends.

 

Perkins, Hazel Pauline Skinner - Funeral services for Hazel Perkins, age 95 of Bedford, who died Wednesday, August 29, 2007, at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Saturday, September 1, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home. Burial was held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be directed to the Bedford Ambulance Service. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Hazel Pauline (Skinner) Perkins was born August 1, 1912, in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of Herbert Skinner and Grace (Rankin) Skinner. She grew up attending school, graduating with the Class of 1930 with honors, having lived her entire life in the Bedford community. On June 19, 1935, she was united in marriage to Robert E. Perkins in Maryville, Missouri. Together they shared fifty-five wonderful years. Three daughters were born to bless this union, Patricia, Martha and Carole.

Hazel was a busy homemaker at the farm as well as working in local grocery stores, restaurants, Iowa Power & Light and twenty years with the City of Bedford. She was Deputy City Clerk when she retired in 1982. Bob and Hazel also owned and operated the Bedford Bowling Lanes in the late 1950’s.

Hazel’s teaching provided a strong lifelong background for raising her children, working in the community and, later in life, as a volunteer at the nursing home. She was a very good cook and shared her good food with many. She was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening, shopping, knitting and crocheting. She also enjoyed doing puzzles, watching Iowa sports, Cubs baseball and good ‘ole country music! By far, her greatest pleasure was being with and sharing with the family she had taught to Love. Hazel was a life-long member of the Christian Church, always looking forward to the time spent in fellowship.

Left to cherish Hazel’s memory are her three daughters and husbands, Patricia and Ronald Fussner of Osage Beach, Missouri; Martha and Donald Story of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Carole and Robert Dawson of Bedford; granddaughters Kimberlee Chamberlain of Lone Tree, Iowa; Christina and Craig Churchill of Clarinda; Paige Butterfield of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Christine Bridges and Frank Rericha of Imperial, Missouri; nine great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Charles and Joan Perkins of Rolling Hills, California; a sister-in-law, Virginia Crum of Roseville California and many other dear relatives and friends.

Preceding Hazel in death were her parents; her husband Robert on October 24, 1990; and a grandson, Scott Chamberlain.

She was a wonderful role model for her family
and friends and will be deeply missed.
Peterman, Richard Floyd - Funeral services for Floyd Peterman, age 95 of the Conway / Sharpsburg areas, who died Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda were held Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Memory Cemetery in New Market. Memorials can be given in his name. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Richard Floyd Peterman was born March 21, 1914 in Taylor County, Iowa the son of Merrill Peterman and Edna (Thompson) Peterman. Floyd grew up in the New Market area attending country school and later worked on the family farm with his father and brothers. On December 22, 1934 he was united in marriage to Orpha Sleep in St. Joseph, Missouri. Born to bless this marriage were two sons, Buddy Lee and Floyd Ray.

Floyd and Orpha spent most of their married life on the farm west of Conway where he loved farming with his two cylinder John Deer Tractors. In addition to farming, the couple went to work for the Glenwood State School as caretakers for several years. They also ran the Taylor County Farm for eight years, and had also worked in Clarinda, retiring in the early 1970’s. Orpha passed away in June of 2002. When Floyd’s health began to fail in 2003, he moved to the Goldenrod Manor in Clarinda where he resided until his death.

Left to cherish the memories of Floyd are his son, Ray Peterman and wife Joyce of Darien, Georgia; a brother, Ray Peterman and wife Toots of Bedford; a sister, Verla Easter of Grant City, Missouri; a grandson, Ryan Peterman of Bedford and his children, Floyd’s two great-grandchildren, Rayanne Marie and Ryan Michael Peterman; along with many other family members and friends.

Preceding Floyd in death are his parents; his loving wife Orpha and his beloved son Buddy, both in 2002; three brothers, Dale, Kenneth and Dennis Peterman; and a sister, Pearl Pershin.

Although Floyd will be greatly missed,
his love and inspiration will live on through his family.
 

Peterson, Janice Kay Miller Ambrose - Funeral services for Janice Peterson, age 51 of Bedford, Iowa, who died Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at her home in Bedford, Iowa will be held Friday , January 25, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Terry Roberts officiating. Visitation with the family will be held 6-8 p.m., Thursday, January 24, 2008 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Hospice of Central Iowa. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford, Iowa.

Janice Kay Peterson was born July 5, 1956 in Corning, Iowa, the daughter of Edwin Miller and Esther Miller. She grew up in the Sharpsburg area and attended schools in Lenox.

Janice was united in marriage to LaVerne Ambrose, April 26, 1974 at Hopkins, Missouri; they later divorced. One son, Rob, was born to this union. Janice was united in marriage to Joe Peterson on December 23, 1987 at Las Vegas, Nevada. She worked at Eveready Battery Company, Maryville, Missouri for 28 years. Janice enjoyed flowers, especially tulips and roses. She collected snowmen. Her main interest was her family and she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Janice is survived by her husband Joe Peterson of Bedford, Iowa; son, Rob Ambrose and wife Stacy of Irwin, Iowa; daughter, Christina Peterson of Crystal, Minnesota; grandchildren, Delaney and Hailey Ambrose; father, Ed Miller and wife Marlene of Bedford, Iowa; mother, Esther Miller of Bedford, Iowa; brothers, Darrell Miller and wife Donna of Sidney, Iowa, Richard Miller of Clarinda, Iowa; sisters, Karolyn Nelson and husband Gary of Creston, Iowa, Joyce Majors and husband Bruce of Bedford, Iowa, Karen Wiederholt of Bedford, Iowa; several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Preceding Janice in death were her maternal and paternal grandparents and nephew Dustin Nelson.

Janice will be dearly missed by her family and many friends.
May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

 

Pirtle, Margaret Bertha Poortinga - Margaret Bertha Pirtle, daughter of Garrett Robert and Johanna Marie (Peterson) Poortinga, was born February 4, 1918 at Newton, Iowa. She graduated from Osceola High School. Margaret married Cleo Gracey and to this marriage, one daughter, Johanna, was born.

Margaret would later marry John Pirtle, Sr. and to this marriage, three children were born; Garrett, John, Jr., and Cindy. Margaret worked outside the home over the years. She worked for a lawyer in Osceola; owned and operated custodial homes in Jefferson; was a cook at the Clearfield School for several years before working as a mental health worker in Clarinda. After retiring,

Margaret went to California to care for her brother Vern. Margaret was a caring person who loved her sports. The St. Louis Cardinals and Denver Broncos were her favorite teams. Margaret was a member of the United Methodist Church in Clearfield.

She moved into the Clearview Home in Clearfield in 2001 and it was there that she passed away on November 17, 2009.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John Pirtle, Sr. in November 1976; daughters Jo and Cindy; a granddaughter Andrea Hargin; and two brothers Vern and Bud Poortinga.

Survivors include her sons Gary (Robin) Pirtle of Clarinda and John (Janis) Pirtle, Jr. of Clearfield; son-in-law Mike Simmerman of Colorado Springs, Colo.; grandchildren Tim (Angela) Simmerman, Casey (Mara) Simmerman, Kelly (Steve) Duree, Darby Simmerman, Jason (Michelle) Walton, Clinton Pirtle, Corey (Jamie) Pirtle, Lindsey Pirtle, Erika Pirtle, Erin Pirtle, and Danielle (Nick) Gray; step-grandchildren Laine Gray, Breana Gray, Kennedy Gray, Dawn Pullen, and Kisha Wagoner; great grandchildren Jacob Simmerman, Garrett and McGregor Duree, Mica Simmerman, Kyle, Conner, Zach, Ethan, Devon Pirtle, and Laxi Gray; four step-great grandchildren; two nieces that Margaret helped raise, Patty Martin of Iowa City, Iowa and Donna Kottom of Minnesota; brother Ted Poortinga of Escondido, Calif.; sisters-in-law Peggy Poortinga of Joshua Tree, Calif., and Shirley (Floyd) Collins of Leon, Iowa; other relatives and friends.

A memorial fund has been established in her name to be decided later. Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr was in charge of the arrangements. Services were held Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Christian Church in Clearfield, Iowa. Officiating was Rev. Alan Rusk.

Musicians were Patty Parrish, Terry Roberts and Deb Briggs. Songs were In The Garden, Amazing Grace and Country Roads. Casketbearers were Kim Brown, Jeani Swartwood, Susie Fletchall, Carrie Baker, April Curtis and Christina Roberts. Honorary Pallbearers were Gary Pirtle, John Pirtle, Jr., Tim Simmerman, Casey Simmerman, Jason Walton, Clinton Pirtle, Corey Pirtle and Kenny Nelson, She was laid to rest at Clearfield Cemetery, Clearfield, Iowa.


Pittelkow, Karen Sue Hunt - Graveside services for Karen Sue Pittelkow, age 62 of Laughlin, Nevada, who died Thursday, June 14, 2007, in Bullhead City, Arizona were held Wednesday, June 20, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Visitation was held fro 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Memorials can be given in her name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Karen Sue (Hunt) Pittelkow was born July 17, 1944, the daughter of Hadley Raymond Hunt and Margaret Mae (Davis) Hunt, and went home to the Lord June 14, 2007. She was united in marriage to Wilfried Otto Pittelkow on December 13, 1963, in Maryville, Missouri. Wilfried and Sue adopted her niece, Connie, in 1981. They resided most of their married lives in the San Fernando Valley in California (Sylmar), before moving to Laughlin, Nevada in early 2006. Wilfried passed away October 22, 2006, leaving her longing to join him in heaven.

Karen Sue was employed at Fidelity Manufacturing in Burbank, California for fifteen years as an assembly worker. She loved cooking, collecting recipes, listening to country music, watching TV and having lots of fun on her computer.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Connie Ward and husband Mike of Laughlin, Nevada; a brother, Hadley Raymond Hunt, Jr., of Albany, Missouri; a nephew Keith Wayne Dishon of Des Moines; cousins Jesse and Linda Hunt of Pahrump, Nevada; mother-in-law, Dora Pittelkow of Bedford; sisters-in-law, Hannelore Pittelkow of Sioux City; Ingrid Pittelkow, Heidi Meek and Betty Pittelkow all of Bedford; a brother-in-law, Joe Pittelkow of Overland Park, Kansas; and all of their families.

Karen Sue is preceded in death by her parents Hadley Raymond Hunt and Margaret Mae Hunt; her loving husband Wilfried; and two sisters, Elsie Mae Hunt and Rosie Hunt.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing.

Pittelkow, Wilfried Otto - Wilfried Otto Pittelkow was born March 27, 1937 in Germany, the son of Dora and the late Wilhelm Pittelkow. Wilfried lived his first 15 years in Germany, then in 1952 the Pittelkow family moved to Atlantic, Iowa.

On December 13, 1963 Wilfried was united in marriage to Karen Sue Hunt of Maryville, Missouri. Wilfried and Sue adopted her niece Connie in 1981. Wilfried, Sue, and Connie resided most of their lives in the San Fernando Valley, California. Wilfried retired in 2005 from Reflector Light where he was employed for 27 years as a truck driver/machinist. Wilfried loved his job very much. Wilfried enjoyed listening to country music especially the Grand Ol Opry, playing cards, watching TV, and shopping. He was also a huge L.A. Dodgers fan! In early 2006 Wilfried and Sue moved to Laughlin, Nevada to be closer to daughter Connie and husband Mike.

Left to cherish Wilfried’s memory are his wife Sue of Laughlin, Nevada and daughter Connie Ward and son-in-law Mike of Laughlin, Nevada, Mother Dora Pittelkow of Bedford, Iowa, sister Hanna Davis of Sioux City, Iowa and daughter Annie O’Dell and husband John and children Ashley and Jeremy of Clarinda, Iowa and son Paul Pittelkow of Sioux City, Iowa and children LaToshia, Heather, and Derek Pittelkow of Oklahoma, sister Ingrid Pittelkow of Bedford, Iowa, brother Joe Pittelkow of Overland Park, Kansas and daughter Erica Lynch and husband Matt of Santa Monica, California, sister Heidi Meek of Bedford, Iowa, and daughter Lori Welch and husband Rande and children Eric, Cameron, and Kelle of Bedford, Iowa and son David Woods of Maryville, Missouri and sister Betty Pittelkow of Bedford, Iowa.

Preceding Wilfried in death are his father Wilhelm Pittelkow in 1987 and sister Marijana in 1945.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Wilfried’s passing.

Burial in Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Iowa.

 

Poore, Howard E. "Willy" - Funeral services for Howard “Willy” Poore, age 93 of Bedford, who died Friday, June 25, 2005 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Wednesday, June 29, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Pastor Jamie Mogler and Ted DeHass officiating. Interment with military rites accorded by the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164 were held in the Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials can be directed to the First Baptist Church or the Bedford Volunteer Ambulance Service. Please leave a message of tribute to the Poore family on our web page, www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Howard E. “Willy” Poore was born April 8, 1912, on a farm three miles north of Blockton, Iowa to Charles E. Poore and Minnie Effie (Polley) Poore. He grew up attending school in Blockton, Redding and graduated from the Bedford High School with the Class of 1932. He was nicknamed “Willy” because of his good report on Will Rogers, whom he admired. After high school Willy served in the CCC camp for eighteen months along with Leonard Scroggie. In 1937, he was united in marriage to Mildred Cobb and to this loving union four sons were born, Larry, Gary, Don and Greg. Mildred passed away in 1964 and in 1965 he was united in marriage to Dorothy Lillie of Clearfield.

In 1944, he entered the United States Navy faithfully serving his country until his discharge in 1945, where he had been stationed in San Diego, California. He did general trucking in the Bedford area and was later employed by the Iowa Department of Transportation where he worked for twenty-one years. After retiring in 1977, as a foreman for the Red Oak DOT office, he and Dorothy moved back to Bedford.

Willy kept busy for a number of years with remodeling and building bird houses and framing pictures. Always an active man, Willy dismantled Oak Hill Church when we was seventy-five years old along with several old barns for various farmers in the area! He was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church having served as a deacon, taught the Friendly Class in Sunday school and sang in the choir, having been blessed with a beautiful voice. He was also a member of the John F. Hardin American Legion Post No. 164. He enjoyed all sports, especially golf and bowling. He was a charter member of the Senior Golf Group. He also enjoyed playing cards with his friends for many years in his home and going for coffee with the men at the Junction Café.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Dorothy of Bedford; three sons, Larry Poore and wife Judy of Lincoln, Nebraska; Gary Poore and wife Barbara of Chicago, Illinois; Don Poore and wife Jeanette of Orlando, Florida; a step-son, Al Lillie and wife Myra of Indianola; eleven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law Dorotha Poore of Minneapolis, Minnesota; a cousin Cecil Polley of Des Moines; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Charles and Minnie; his first wife Mildred in 1964; his son Greg in 1999; a brother Ward and an adopted brother Ted; and his in-laws, Joe and Ruth Trost of Lenox.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

 

Purdum, Dale Eugene - Funeral services for Dale Purdum, age 81, of Lenox, who died Friday, December 18, 2009, at the Greater Regional Hospice Home in Creston after a battle with cancer will be held Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Lenox. Interment with military rites accorded by the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 will be held in the West Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be directed to the Greater Regional Hospice House in Creston; the Lenox Fire Department; Lenox Ambulance Service or Lenox United Methodist Church. Memories can be shared with the family at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Dale Eugene Purdum was born September 20, 1928 in Kent, Iowa the son of Richard Purdum and Bertha (Thomas) Purdum. Dale spent most of his life in Lenox, graduating from the Lenox High School with the Class of 1947. Dale answered the call to serve his country during the Korean Conflict, receiving the Purple Heart for his service. On December 26, 1951 Dale was united in marriage to Bertha Abel in Cromwell, Iowa.

Dale farmed for several years and later purchased and operated Dale’s Clothing Store in Lenox for over twenty-six years. After his retirement from the clothing store he went to work for Papetti’s for ten years. Dale had served as past president of the Lenox Chamber of Commerce; the Lenox Country Club; Lenox Community Trust and Lenox Senior Golf. He had also served on the Lenox Community School Board and at the Sunrise Apartments. He was a member of the Parkinson American Legion Post No. 250 and the United Methodist Church in Lenox.

Dale enjoyed life and was known as a ‘fun loving people person’ who always saw the best in everyone. He was someone you could always count on. He loved to play cards, dance and golf. Dale was always very active in his family’s lives and he truly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Retail business suited him well and the relationships he had with his customers were something he carried on throughout his life. Dale was always proud to tell people he was from Lenox and kept busy promoting the community and the people in it.

Left to cherish the memories of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and valued community member are his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Bert Purdum of Lenox; two sons, Mark Purdum and wife Kathy of Centerville, Iowa; and Steve Purdum and wife Tammy of Hutchinson, Kansas; four grandchildren, Alicia Loman and husband Ed and great-grandson Keaton of Newton, Iowa; Aaron Purdum of Clear Lake, Iowa; Christopher Purdum and wife Ashley of Omaha, Nebraska; and Nathan Purdum of Wichita, Kansas; a brother Clifford Purdum and wife Leone of Creston; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and a community of friends.

Preceding Dale in death are his parents Richard and Bertha Purdum; three sisters, Lucille Goldsmith; Gladys Leach and Jean Lewis; and a brother Raymond Purdum;

Dale was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and community member.

His enthusiasm, humor, insight and community presence will be missed.
Perry, Leanna Mae Lang - Funeral services for Leanna Mae Perry, 84 was held Monday, May 18, 2009 at Rose Hill Cemetery at Blockton, Iowa.
Leanna Mae Perry, daughter of David Jesse and Anna May (Purple) Lang, was born November 22, 1926 at Shenandoah, Iowa. Leanna grew up in Shenandoah, Iowa. Leanna grew in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School.
Leanna lived for a short time in California before moving to Pocahontas, Iowa, where she lived for several years. Leanna moved to Blockton in 1986. She worked at Groff’s Locker in Blockton and cared for family members. Leanna died on May 13, 2009 at Clearview Home in Clearfield, Iowa.
She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant child; four brothers Wilbur, Clarence, Paul and Edgar; four sisters Marie Hoffman, Retha Bonner, Mildred Richardson, and Neoma Louise Cavin.
Survivors include her two brothers Merle Lang and wife Ruth of Sioux City, IA; and Myron Lang of Lincoln, NE; sister-in-law Bea Lang of Vinton, IA; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Perry, Evelyn Lucille - Evelyn Lucille Perry, born November 15, 1923, passed away May 22, 2008 at the age of 84 in Tucson, Arizona at St. Joseph Medical Center.
Evelyn was married to Carl C. Perry on August 12, 1943 in Hiawatha Kansas. They lived on a farm near Hopkins Missouri for several years prior to moving to the farm west of Bedford, Iowa in 1955. Evelyn moved Tucson, AZ, in 1986. In 1995 she moved to Virden, New Mexico where she was living at the time of her death.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Connie Steppes and Kathryn Perry; sister, Maxie Deem; half-sister, Margaret Phillippe; and half-brothers, Lowell Peters and Don Peters. Her grandchildren are Erica Beason, Michaela LaFever, Trisha Crum, Cavin Cox and Pam Lassiter. She also has nine great-grandchildren and had just learned of another great-grandchild that is due to arrive in December 2008.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl C. Perry in 1982; both parents, brother, Irvin Thompson; and her half-brother, Robert Peters.
Funeral services were conducted on May 27, 2008 at the First Baptist church in Duncan, Arizona. Interment was at the Franklin, Arizona Cemetery.
Evelyn loved to quilt and spend time with her family. She entered many of her quilts in the Greenlee County fair and won many blue ribbons. She rarely kept any of her quilts, always giving them to her family and friends
Perry, Dorothy P. Larison - Dorothy P. Perry, 84, St. Marys, KS, died Saturday, August 23, 2008 at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS.
She was born October 3, 1923 in rural Taylor County Iowa the daughter of Elmer and Thena Prather Larison. Mrs. Perry grew up in the Bedford, Iowa community and graduated from Bedford High School in 1940. She moved to the St. Marys, KS, community shortly after graduation.
She was a bookkeeper for the Farmers Union Coop John Deere Hardware Store in St. Marys for many years. Mrs. Perry was also an Avon Representative for over 30 years and was member of the Avon Presidents Club. She was a member of the St. Marys United Methodist Church, KS.
On December 23, 1942 she was united in marriage to Cletus L. Perry at Fort Ord, CA. He preceded her in death on June 24, 2004. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Duane (Tommy) Larison; an infant sister, Marjorie Lucille Larison and a granddaughter, Dana Lynn Perry.
Survivors include two sons, Ronald D. (Carla) Perry, Lawrence and Dan “Joe” (Linda) Perry. Emmett; a daughter, Sheryl (Gary) Dick, Topeka; a brother, James (Betty) Larison, Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren, Mick (Jennifer) Perry, Becky (Jason) Seele, Jeff (Heidi) Dick, Jenny (Justin) Hutton and Sarah (Dale) Nordlund; 13 great grandchildren
Powell, Carlyle La Dwayne - Carlyle La Dwayne Powell was born September 23, 1939, in Savannah, Georgia, the son of Carlyle Powell and Audrey Crosby Emmert, and entered into rest on Christmas day, 2008. Dwayne spent his early childhood on his grandparent’s farm in South Georgia. Shortly after his grandmother’s death he joined his mother and stepfather, John Emmert, in Bedford, Iowa.
He was in a junior high magazine sale competition that Dwayne knew he would probably have a future in sales. He out-sold all of the rest of the class put together and won the first prize of a clock radio.
Dwayne graduated from Bedford High school in 1958 and attended Wentworth Military academy the following two years. He excelled in all academics along with football and diving.
In 1964, he entered the United States Air force and spent 18 months in Vietnam and Cambodia. The horrors he endured there haunted him for the rest of his life. After leaving the service he eventually received his BS degree form Washington University.
In 1972, he was united in marriage to Barbara Lynn Ziegler. The marriage lasted less than a year, and although he had several long relationships, he chose not marry again.
Dwayne lived in Charlotte, North Carolina, and then eventually settled in Charleston, South Carolina. His love of the “low country” kept him there for the rest of his life.
Dwayne was very successful in the automobile business. He worked hard and made a lot of money for a lot of people. He was a top salesman and general manager, among other things.
Dwayne loved the outdoors. He was a fisherman, hunter, boater and swimmer. He loved being in the sun and often referred to his perennial tan as his George Hamilton tan.
Dwayne found happiness in his good friends, many that stayed true to him after he became an alcoholic. It could get pretty bad at times for him, but he could always count on Charlotte and Frances Humphries, Mel Stolte, Earl and Phoebe Lee, the Odem family, Sears Saul and his childhood friend, Berdalee Cordrman.
Dwayne is survived by his good friends, an uncle, Ken Davis of Newton, IA; several Crosby cousins, a half sister, Paula Kaye Durston (Tom), and a niece, Dea Gigrilliat (Don). He also had three half-brothers that he never met.
Dwayne was preceded in death by his parents, Carlyle and Audrey, and his stepfather, John Emmert.
Dwayne will be truly missed for all of the hours he entertained us with his remarkable wit and intelligence, but we can be comforted with the fact that he is now at peace.

Potter, Francis Ray "Red" - Francis Ray Potter, better known as “Red”, was born December 16, 1923 to Frank and Flossie Orella (Sleep) Potter on a farm in the Siam community. He attended Siam Elementary School and graduated from New Market High School in 1941.
“Red” joined the U.S. Marine Corp in 1943 and spent 26 months in the Pacific. He was discharged in 1946. He was called back in 1950 and spent 14 months in Korea.
He married Florene Lacy on September 10, 1948 and to that union one daughter, Debra Lynn, was born.
“Red” spent several years on the New Market council, serving as mayor. He served 36 years on the Taylor County Conservation Board and 54 years on the New Market Fire & Rescue, and was a 50 year Mason.
They lived in New Market 53 years in the same home before moving to Clarinda in 2001.
His hobbies were camping, fishing, woodworking and lapidary work. He liked traveling and wintering in Arizona.
He worked 23 years at Rose and Tuttle Lumber Yard in New Market and retired in 1989 from Lisle Corp.
Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother, Darrell. He is survived by wife Florene and daughter Debra and son-in-law Richard Williams, all of Clarinda, Iowa; a brother, Glen and wife of Oklahoma City, OK; nephew Marvin Potter and wife of Murphreesboro, TN, and Kevin Potter and wife of Bedford, IA; many other nieces and nephews.
Memorials are suggested to the New Market Fire & Rescue or New Market Methodist Church
Funeral services for Francis "Red" Potter, age 86 of Clarinda and formerly of New Market, will be held 10:30 Monday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel with Pastor Dan from the New Market Methodist Church officiating. Interment will be at Siam Cemetery, Siam, Iowa. Family visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the New Market United Methodist Church or the New Market Fire Department. Military rites will be given at graveside by American Legion Sergy Post #96 of Clarinda. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Pullen, Carolyn Irene Gibson - Carolyn Irene Pullen, daughter of Marion Matheny and Ellen L (Stanley) Matheny Gibson was born November 3, 1952 in Maryville, Missouri. Following a battle with cancer. Carolyn passed away April 14, 2009 at the home of her daughter in Aurora, Missouri.
Carolyn grew up in Bedford. She married John Glass and was bless with a son, Mike and daughter, Cathy. Carolyn later married Gene Pullen and was blessed with two more children, sons Corey and Roy.
Carolyn worked for many years at the Skylark Restaurant for Gary and Janet Jones. She was a very hard worker and dedicated employee. Her bosses Gary and Jan were also her dear friends; and she formed many lasting, loving friendships with customers at the Skylark and many other people of the Bedford community. Later Carolyn lovingly cared for her mother during her battle with cancer. After her mother passed away on August 3, 2000 Carolyn moved to Aurora, Missouri to be near her daughter. Cathy. Carolyn enjoyed visiting with family and friends. She loved collecting unicorns and porcelain dolls. While Carolyn had many health problems and faced many hardships in life; she was never heard to complain.
Left to cherish her memory are sons Mike Glass and wife Heather of Brookfield, MO; Cory Pullen and Roy Pullen both of Corning, IA; daughter Cathy Meek and friend Aaron Allen of Aurora, MO; sister Connie Warren and husband Randy of Waukee, IA; brothers John Matheny of Brashear MO; Lonnie Matheny and wife Jennifer of Bedford, IA: granddaughters Kendra and Ashley Meek and Alaina Glass; nephew Marty Whipp and wife Amy; nieces Jennifer McCall and husband Jeff; Sierra and Calyn Matheny and Mary Ann Matheny; among with many other aunts; uncles, relatives and friends.
Preceding Carolyn in death are her parents, Marion and Ellen, and a brother-in-law, Dan Whipp.
Services were held Saturday, April 25, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Baptist Church in Bedford, with Pastor Jamie Mogler officiating. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials in Carolyn’s name.