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Maxine Cameron
Oskaloosa. (Rose) Maxine Cameron, 97, of Oskaloosa, died Thursday, July 2, 2009, at Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab Center in Oskaloosa. She was born January 27, 1912 in Mahaska County near Lacey. She graduated from the Lacey High School. On December 27, 1938, she was united in marriage to Sam Shipman, and he died July 18, 1945. Maxine did housekeeping work in private residences in Oskaloosa and also William Penn College for many years. On October 20, 1961, she was married to James Cameron at Montezuma, and Jim died April 16, 1992. She was a long time member of the First Christian Church in Oskaloosa, and a tireless worker within the church. Maxine was also a member of the Oskaloosa Women’s Club, garden dept.

Her family includes a son and his wife, Jerry and Sally Shipman of Madison, Wisconsin; two granddaughters: Janet and Beth Shipman; a step daughter and her husband: Esther and Jack Davis of Davenport; and a nephew: Bill (& Donna) Fleming.

Besides her two husbands, Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; and three sisters: Mary Stainbrook, Naomi Fleming, and Verga Mick.

Funeral services for Maxine Cameron will be held Monday, July 6, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, with the Reverend Michael Omundson officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery at Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin on Monday, and the family will be at the funeral chapel Monday from 9 a.m. until service time to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, Oskaloosa.

To send condolences to the Maxine Cameron family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Harriet VanGilst
Oskaloosa. Harriet Van Gilst, 94, of Oskaloosa, passed into glory on Tuesday, June 30, 2009, at Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab Center in Oskaloosa. She was born October 6, 1914 near Leighton, the daughter of Jacob and Anna Meppelink DeBruin. She grew up in the Oskaloosa area, and on November 26, 1937, Harriet was united in marriage to Bass Van Gilst at the home of her parents at Oskaloosa. They farmed in the area and were active members of the Cedar Christian Reformed Church. She was involved in a number of Bible study groups, the Kid’s Bible Club in Kirkville, and many community activities. Harriet had an appreciation for God’s beautiful creation, and whenever possible spent time each day outdoors. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, traveling, and helping others. She supported her husband in his farming business as well as his political career. Bass died on December 2, 1996, and Harriet also passed into glory on June 30, 2009.

Harriet’s memory is cherished and honored by her six children and their families: Ken and Gerri Van Gilst of Oskaloosa, and their children: Karen and Henry Doorn, Jaci and Andy David, Joel and Lisa, and Bryce; Carl and Shirley Van Gilst of Goshen, Indiana and their children: Dale and Pam Riegsecker, Donald Riegsecker, Debra and Kerm Garbeu, Darryl Riegsecker, Scott and Phyllis, and Brenda Jones; Elaine and Jerry Van Wyk of Pella, and children: Curt and Wendy, Joan and Dave Davidson, and Jill and David Hekman; Rev, Mark and Lola Van Gilst of Landenberg, Pennsylvania and children: Amy Fowler, Tonya and Jason Cole, Heidi and Bob Campbell, and Michael; Diane and Dean Van Wyngarden of Oskaloosa and their children: Cameron and Cheri, Doug and Kim, Adam and Kate, and Lynnette; and Joleen and Fred Vanderheide of Bright’s Grive, Ontario, Canada and children: Sonya, Steve, and Emily. Harriet is fondly remembered by her twenty four grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren; also brothers and sisters: Helen Veldhuizen of Oskaloosa, Ray and Evadena DeBruin of University Park, Nadine Stek of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Marvin and Jeanette DeBruin of Oskaloosa, Evelyn and Thaymer Jonker of Oak Lawn, Illinois, and sisters in law: Anna DeBruin of Oskaloosa, and Ada and Gys Rozenboom of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Besides her husband, Harriet was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter in law: Joyce Van Gilst; two brothers: Ernest and Calvin DeBruin; and two sisters: Mary Van Gilst and Lorena Plate.

Funeral services for Harriet VanGilst will be held Monday, July 6, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Cedar Christian Reformed Church in Cedar with the Reverend Tom Pettinga officiating, assisted by the Reverend Mark Van Gilst. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Sunday after 10 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Sunday from 1 – 3 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Christian Reformed World Missions.

To send condolences to the Harriet VanGilst family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Ronald Brown
Oskaloosa. Ronald Wayne Brown, 67, of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, June 28, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born November 20, 1941 at Monmouth, Illinois, the son of Ronald and Ruth Brown. He served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Early in his adult life, he worked for Cargill, and later for Pamida. He lived in Illinois until moving to Oskaloosa in the 1970’s. He was a self employed over the road semi truck driver, operating PRP Transport, Inc. He enjoyed fishing.
Ron\'s family includes a daughter, Barbara Heim of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; a brother: Gary Brown in Illinois; two grandchildren; and close friends, Loretta (& Carroll) Beck and Don and Trudy Craig all of Oskaloosa.
As was his request, Ronald\'s has been cremated and no service is planned at this time. Burial of the cremated remains will be in the Center Grove Cemetery at Kirkwood, Illinois at a later date.

To send condolences to the Ronald Brown family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Lewis Jacobs
Fremont. Lewis P. Jacobs, Sr., 92, of rural Fremont, died Friday morning, June 26, 2009, at the Oskaloosa Care Center in Oskaloosa. He was born August 25, 1916 at Rose Hill, the son of John and Elsie Van Rees Jacobs. He graduated from the Rose Hill High School with the class of 1935, and had been very active in athletics, and was the catcher on the school’s baseball team. On November 1, 1941, he was united in marriage to Esther Versteegh at New Sharon. He served in the United States Army during World War II, his tours of duty included the Rhineland, Central Europe, and Northern France. Following his discharge he returned to Mahaska County and farmed. Together they farmed, first in the Spring Valley area, then in 1951, moved to a farm near Fremont. In 1977, his son, Lewie, began farming the family farm and took over day to day operations. Early in his adult life, Lewis was an active member of the Presbyterian Church in Hedrick where he had served as a trustee and elder. For the past many years, he has attended the First Church of the Nazarene in Oskaloosa. He enjoyed woodworking; animals; fishing; gardening, flowers and vegetables; music, especially playing the harmonica.

His family includes his wife, Esther Jacobs of rural Fremont, two sons and their wives: Lewis and Arlaine Jacobs of rural Ottumwa and Robert L. and Sonya Jacobs of Springfield, Illinois; two daughters and their husbands: Pat and John Smith of Mesa, Arizona, and Linda and Mike Bruxvoort of Oskaloosa; 14 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Nellie Merrill and Elsie Boggess; and five brothers: Harry, John, Cornie, Elmer, and Garrett Jacobs.

Funeral services for Lewis Jacobs will be held Monday, June 29, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Ralph Sprunk officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery at Oskaloosa, with graveside military rites given by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, D.A.V. and V.F.W. Visitation will begin Sunday after 10 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Sunday from 2 – 4 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice Serenity Hospice House.

To send condolences to the Lewis Jacobs family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Larry Fleener
Tampa, Florida. Larry Gene Fleener,70, of Tampa Florida and formerly of Oskaloosa passed away Sunday, June 21, 2009 in Tampa, Florida with his wife of 48 years Linda E. Fleener, and his Son Larry Gene Fleener Jr. at his side. He was born August 1, 1938, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of John W. and Opal Keeran Fleener. He served in the United States Navy from 1955 – 1957. He was married to Linda E. Timmons on November 27th, 1960 in Oskaloosa. Upon his discharge from the Navy he returned to Oskaloosa and worked for Dwight and Velma Calif’s moving company. He then went to work at Rolscreen (now Pella Corp.) in Pella. He also worked as a fireman for a short time. In April of 1966 they moved to California and he started working for McCulloch. In 1973 he began working in the Airline industry for Western Airlines and then Delta Airlines as a material specialist until he retired in 2003 after 30 years of service. He was a member of the American Legion and Delta Pioneers. He had a love of life, traveling with his wife, ballroom and line dancing, Country Music, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, as well as his and Linda’s beloved dogs. He also enjoyed watching all sports on television.

His family includes his wife of nearly 49 years, Linda E. Fleener of Tampa, Florida; two sons: Larry Gene Fleener, Jr. of Brentwood, California, and Robby D. (& Cinnamon) Fleener of Mariposa, California; his daughter & Son in Law: Deborah & Edward Irizzary of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; his 7 grandchildren - Kassandra, Melissa, Brandi, Kristen, Ryan, Aaron and Timothy, also 6 great grandchildren, as well as his three surviving sisters: Marguerite and (Walter) Burch of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Marilyn Amber of Bull Head City, Arizona, and Linda and (David) Walker of Delta, Iowa; and his surviving brother: Ronald and (Suzie) Fleener of Oskaloosa, Iowa; two sisters in law: Mary Lou Fleener and Halene Fleener; and a very special family friend: Carl Brown.

He is preceded in death by his father, John Fleener, his mother, Opal Fleener, his twin brother Jerry (Tubby) Fleener, his brother William (Bill) Fleener, his sisters Judy Baker, Patty Maxie, and his grandson William Carlton Fleener.

Funeral services for Larry Fleener will be held Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 1 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. Military rites will be given following the funeral ceremony by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W. and D.A.V. As was Larry’s wish his body will be cremated following the funeral ceremony. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Tuesday after 10 a.m. and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday evening from 6—8 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice Serenity House or Kings Daughters.

To send condolences to the Larry Fleener family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Jody Morrow
Oskaloosa. Jody Morrow, 38, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, and formerly of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, June 21, 2009, at her home in Albert Lea. She was born November 3, 1970 at Oskaloosa, the daughter of Bud F. Hols and Janie Schwab Hols. She graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1989. Early in her adult life she worked at the old Mahaska Manor Nursing Home in Oskaloosa and later at a nursing home in Sigourney. On May 9, 1982, Jody was united in marriage to Raymond Geroge Mickles at Lake Keomah, and later divorced. Jody was a homemaker, and enjoyed craftwork, baking, and crocheting. She moved to Albert Lea in 2004.

Her family includes two sons: Raymond Charles Mickles and James Daniel Mickles, both of Oskaloosa; two brothers: James Hols and Brad Hols, both Oskaloosa; a sister: Brandy “BJ” Van Skike of Oskaloosa; an uncle, Terry Schwab of Oskaloosa; an aunt and uncle, David and Pat Schwab of Cedar; and a special cousin: Samantha Schwab of Oskaloosa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and grandparents; and a cousin, Stacey Schwab.

Jody has been cremated, and visitation with the family will be Thursday, July 2, 2009, from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Bates Funeral Chapel, and a Memorial Service will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. Private family burial of the cremated remains will be in the White Oak Cemetery east of Oskaloosa. A memorial fund has been established in her name.

To send condolences to the Jody Morrow family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Carl Krile
Oskaloosa. F. Carl Krile, 89, of Oskaloosa, died Saturday afternoon, June 20, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born April 18, 1920 at Truax, the son of Fredrick and Etta Couch Krile. On December 27, 1950, Carl was united in marriage to Betty Adair at Oskaloosa, and Betty died July 31, 2004. Carl was employed as a heavy equipment operator, and had worked in area coal mines and in road construction. Through the years, he worked a drag line and operator a bulldozer and contributed work on Lake Red Rock before retiring. Even in retirement, he worked part time for two years. In his youth, he loved playing baseball at Truax, and throughout life enjoyed fishing and hunting, and playing his guitar and singing. He loved golden retriever dogs, especially his pet, Rusty.

His family includes a daughter and her husband, Kay and Don Rhine of Oskaloosa; two grandchildren: Rod (& Suzy) Richards and Melinda (& Steve) Larsen; three great grandchildren, Dennis and Bridgette Richards, and Emma Larsen; and two sisters: Helen Knox and Elsie Swim, both of Oskaloosa.

Besides his wife, Carl was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter: Tamhra Richards; a son in law: Dennis Richards; a sister: Joy Hatfield; and a brother: James M. Krile.

Funeral services for Carl Krile will be held Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery at Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin Monday after 10 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Monday from 5:30 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice, for the new Serenity Hospice House.

To send condolences to the Carl Krile family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Doris E. Lanphier
Oskaloosa. Doris Lanphier, 94, of Oskaloosa died Thursday, June 11, 2009 at Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab. She was born on Friday, May 14, 1915, near New Sharon, the daughter of Floyd and Ada McFall Hite. She attended a country grade school and later Lacey High School where she graduated with the class of 1933. She then attended William Penn College and attained a certificate to teach country school. Following college she taught at Elm Grove Country School for 3 years, she then went to work for the government office, ASCS, which was farm oriented. She was united in marriage to Walter Eugene Lanphier on August 24, 1942 at Wichita, Kansas. Gene died October 4, 2003. She then worked at the Mahaska County Hospital in the office for several years. Lastly she worked for Hagen Insulation in the office for 5 years, retiring in 1977. Doris was a member of Calvary Bible Church in Oskaloosa and was baptized in the spring of 1974. She enjoyed plant and flower gardens. She also enjoyed attending Bible study groups with the Truax neighbors. She delighted in spending time with her family.

Her family includes two daughters: Bonita Kay (& Leroy) Patterson of Oskaloosa and Carol Sue (& Roger) Storm of Omaha, Nebraska; two sons: Eugene Curtis Lanphier of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and James (& Pat) Lanphier of Eatonton, Georgia; 17 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; two brothers and their wives: Donald and Hazel Hite of New Sharon, and Fred and May Dean Hite of Council Bluffs; and special friends: Doug Williams and family of Burlington.

Besides her husband, Doris was preceded in death by her parents; and a daughter in law: Marge Lanphier.

Funeral services fpr Doris Lanphier will be held Monday, June 15, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Reverend Dr. Douglas Smiley officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Sunday after 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel and the family will be at the funeral home Sunday from 2—4 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Calvary Bible Church in Oskaloosa.

To send condolences to the Doris E. Lanphier family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Nellie Van Helten
Montreal, Missouri. Nellie M. Van Helten, 91, of Montreal, Missouri, and formerly of Oskaloosa and Eddyville, died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at her daughter’s home in Montreal. She was born May 29, 1918, in Mahaska County, the daughter of Jesse and Velma Heaverlo Mattix. On July 21, 1936, she was united in marriage to Antonie Van Helten at Eddyville. Tony died June 16, 1978. Early on they farmed west of Eddyville in the Grays Creek Area. In 1959 they moved into Eddyville and they owned and operated the grocery store from 1960 – 1968. In 1968 they turned the grocery store into Van’s Coffee Shop; where they had pool tables and video games and Nellie served homemade sandwiches and goodies. In 1978 she closed the coffee shop and went to work for Hardees. Nellie later went to work for the Department of Human Services where she was honored with an award by the governor of the state Iowa for her work. Lastly she worked for Van Steenis Care Center for many years. In 1999 Nellie moved to Missouri to be close to her family. She enjoyed word puzzle books, and racing: especially NASCAR and watching her grandson race his figure 8 car. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She attended the Faith Community Church in Eddyville. She delighted in spending time with her family.

Her family includes her two daughters: Carol Myers of Osage Beach, Missouri, and Janice Van Helten of Montreal, Missouri; 19 grandchildren; 46 great grandchildren; and 15 great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two sons: LeRoy Van Helten, and Marion “Buck” Van Helten; three great grandchildren; a sister: Mary Olive Thomas; and a brother: Harold Mattix.

Graveside memorial service and burial for Nellie Van Helten will be Monday, June 15, 2009, at 10 a.m. in the Highland Cemetery at Eddyville with Reverend Spencer Aalsburg. A procession will form at the Bates Funeral Chapel by 9:20 a.m. on Monday for those wishing to attend the graveside memorial service. As was her wish her body has been cremated. Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation with the family will be held Sunday from 2—4 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice.

To send condolences to the Nellie Van Helten family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

James Knoot
Rose Hill. James “Jim” Knoot, 95, of Rose Hill died Saturday, June 6, 2009, at the Pella Hospice Comfort House in Pella. He was born January 1, 1914 the son of James Adranus and Antoine Aalbers Knoot. Jim was a farmer his whole life. He started out helping his father on the farm. On November 21, 1934, he was united in marriage to Jennie Van Weelden near Rose Hill. Jennie died February 14, 2006. He farmed on the family farm west of Oskaloosa until starting his own farm in 1934. In 1937 he bought a farm near Givin and farmed there until 1944, when they moved to their farm near Rose Hill. For a time he had a dairy operation on his farm. Jim enjoyed a long time partnership with Deane Morris offering each other help doing field work throughout the years. Jim retired from farming in 2002, but he continued to live on the farm. He was a member of Central Reformed Church in Oskaloosa and was very active serving in many roles on the consistory, and teaching Sunday School for many years. He also served many years on rural school boards. He enjoyed raising Black Angus Cattle, and raised cattle until he was 88 years old. He also enjoyed working in the garden with Jennie and being a part of the Rose Hill Community. He delighted in spending time with his family.

His family includes four sons and their wives: James Eugene “Gene” and Janice Knoot of Knoxville, Kenneth Ray Knoot of Oskaloosa, Robert Wesley and Sheila Knoot of Cedar Rapids, and Marvin Randel and Julie Knoot of New Sharon; a daughter in law: Connie Knoot of Johnston; 20 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; a brother and sister in law: Richard and Joyce VanWeelden of Oskaloosa; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, Jim was preceded in death by his parents; a son: Richard Dean Knoot; 3 brothers: Garret, Marion, and Anton Knoot; and a sister: Blanche Groenendyk.

Funeral services for Jim Knoot will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at the Central Reformed Church in Oskaloosa, with Reverends Kevin Glesener and Gil Visser officiating. There will be a family prayer service led by Gloria Nollen Wednesday at 1:45 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the church. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Tuesday after 11 a.m. and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday from 6–8 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Central Reformed Church or Pella Hospice Comfort House.

To send condolences to the James Knoot family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Barbara Russell
Oskaloosa. Barbara Jean Russell, 70, of Oskaloosa died Saturday, June 6, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. She was born October 4, 1938, at Iowa City, Iowa. She was adopted from the Annie Whitmeyer home in Davenport, by Clifford and Iva Plumb Bergstresser. She graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1957. On August 19, 1957, she was united in marriage to Donald Russell at Oskaloosa. She was a homemaker and delighted in caring for her family. She enjoyed camping, feeding and watching birds, and collecting: strawberries, Tweedy Birds, and Elvis Presley memorabilia. She also enjoyed going to auctions with her best friend Mary Quillen.

Her family includes her husband of over 51 years, Donald Russell of Oskaloosa; a daughter: Brenda Hall of Cedar Rapids; a son and his wife: Scott and Bev Russell of Oskaloosa; 6 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; a sister: Betty Stoddard of Oskaloosa; and many nieces nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son: Donald Russell, Jr.; and a great granddaughter: Emily Dawn.

Funeral services for Barbara Russel will be held Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Reverend Daryl Martin officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Monday morning after 11 a.m. and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Monday evening from 5 – 7 to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice.

To send condolences to the Barbara Russell family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Wallace Eveland
Oskaloosa. Wallace B. “Wally” Eveland, 77, of Oskaloosa, died Monday, June 1, 2009, at his home in Oskaloosa. He was born March 14, 1932 in Mahaska County, the son of Dwight and Ina Denburger Eveland. He graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1950, and served in the Army National Guard from 1953 until discharged in 1956. He worked in the machine shop at Clow Valve Company during two periods totaling 30 years before retiring in 1997. Many years ago, he also had worked at the Elks Club for several years. He enjoyed hunting and shooting target practice.

His family includes a daughter, Cindy McLaurin of Oskaloosa, and a son: Tony (& Tammy) Eveland of Oskaloosa; 3 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and a brother: Warren (& Adeline) Eveland of Oskaloosa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Michael Andrew Eveland, and a sister: Wilma Eveland.

Graveside services and burial for Wally Eveland will be held Thursday, June 4, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. at Weldon Cemetery, southwest of Oskaloosa with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. Friends and relatives may gather at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Thursday by 12:55 p.m. to form a procession to the cemetery. Visitation will begin at the funeral chapel on Wednesday after 1 p.m., and the family will be present Wednesday from 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Wallace Eveland Memorial Fund.

To send condolences to the Wallace Eveland family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Coretha Fenton
Oskaloosa. Coretha E. Fenton, 91, of Oskaloosa, died Monday, June 1, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. She was born October 28, 1917 at Oskaloosa, the daughter of Jesse W. and Effie Fay Harrison Huffman. She worked for the W.P.A. during the Great Depression. On October 10, 1939, she was united in marriage to Edmund Chester Fenton at Lancaster, Missouri, and he died June 5, 1978. Coretha was a homemaker, and life long resident of Beacon. Ever faithful to her Lord, she was a member of the First Church of the Open Bible, and had been a teacher at Sunday School and Bible School, and most of all, loved her Heavenly Father. Recently, she has been a member of the OK Bunch at the First Assembly of God Church, and had been ‘Queen of the Bunch’ for 3 years in a row as the largest donor to Missions. She enjoyed collecting cat figurines of all kinds, especially stuffed cats and porcelain cats; and plates and coffee cups; playing the harmonica; playing bingo at Northern Mahaska Care Center; and baking, and was well known for her homemade cinnamon rolls and doughnuts, and her fried chicken. She also enjoyed gardening, fishing, and word find books, and delighted and dearly loved her family and many friends.

Her family includes a son and his wife, Jerry and Joy Fenton of Beacon; two daughters: Shirley Long of Marengo, and Mary and Howard Gay of Rose Hill; 11 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; and a great great granddaughter.

Besides her husband, Coretha was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Donovan Fenton; a daughter in law: Darlene Fenton; a son in law: Tom Long; three brothers: Nolan, Jimmy, and Rutherford Huffman; and a sister: Hellecia Huffman.

Funeral services for Coretha Fenton will be held Friday, June 5, 2009, at 10 a.m. in the First Assembly of God Church in Oskaloosa, with Reverend Lowell Simmons officiating, assisted by the Reverend Michael Dotson. Burial will be in the Tioga Cemetery, east of Rose Hill. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Thursday after 12 noon, and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Thursday from 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice.

To send condolences to the Coretha Fenton family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Margaret Klyn
Oskaloosa. Margaret Klyn, 86, of Oskaloosa, died Thursday, May 28, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. She was born March 30, 1923 near Tracy, the daughter of Cornelius and Johanna Vande Kieft Stam. She attended elementary school at Tracy and Beacon. On March 14, 1946, she was united in marriage to Gerald Klyn at Oskaloosa, and Gerald died February 18, 2009. She was a homemaker, and helped on the farm, and after Margaret’s health declined, Gerald stepped back from farming fulltime, and they moved into Oskaloosa in 1987. They were charter members of Bethel Christian Reformed Church, Oskaloosa, and Margaret was a member of the Bethel Bible Hour church group. She enjoyed gardening, canning, and flowers. She loved to watch the birds, and delighted in spending time with her family.

Her family includes her children and their spouses: Gary (& Mary) Klyn of Pella, Martha (& Edwin) Meinders of Leighton, Alvin (& Verna) Klyn of Oskaloosa, and Linda (& Craig) McCreery of New Sharon; 12 grandchildren: Mike (Lorie) Klyn, Mark Klyn, Jonie (Chris) Arends, James Meinders, Jonathan (Jocelyn) Meinders, Jeremy (Jodi) Klyn, Ryan (Jamie) Klyn, and Chad (& fiance Mandy Van Woerkom) Klyn and Tyler Klyn, and Jessica and Joshua McCreery, and Jennifer (Jeff) DeWild; 6 great grandchildren; two sisters: Alida Vander Molen and Johanna Vander Wiel, both of Pella; two sisters in law: Helen Stam of Holland, Michigan and Wilma Stam of Oskaloosa; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters: Kay Sturing and Janet Groenenboom; five brothers: Henry, Frank, Gerrit, Marion, and Albert Stam; and two sisters in law: Esther and Janet Stam.

Funeral services for Margaret Klyn will be held Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bethel Christian Reformed Church, Oskaloosa, with the Reverend Marvin Leese officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. There will be a Family Prayer Service Tuesday at 10:15 a.m. in the fellowship hall of the church. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Monday after 12 noon, and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Monday from 6 - 8 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Bethel Bible Hour or the activities fund of Crystal Heights Care Center.

To send condolences to the Margaret Klyn family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Robert Musgrove
University Park. Robert Wayne Musgrove, 39, of University Park, died Tuesday, May 26, 2009. He was born October 27, 1969, the son of Karen Wagner, and graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1988. Throughout his life he had various jobs including: working as a security guard in Kansas City, Missouri for 5 years, Kansas City Bureau and Investigation, and lastly Larry’s Auto Body in Oskaloosa. He enjoyed working on and rebuilding cars.

His family includes his three daughters: Kaitlynn Musgrove of Oskaloosa, Amanda Musgrove and Cassie Musgrove both of Missouri; his mother and step father: Karen and Shirley Grubbs of University Park; a sister: Karen VanZee of Eddyville; three brothers and their wives: John and Traci Wagner, and David and Tammy Wagner all of Kansas City, Missouri, and Rusty and Shelly Grubbs of Beacon.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 4, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, with Pastor Otto Hayes officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. Visitation with the family will be Thursday from 9 a.m. until service time. Memorials may be made to the Robert Musgrove Memorial Fund.

To send condolences to the Robert Musgrove family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Raymond A. Fisher
Oskaloosa. Raymond A. Fisher, 89, of Oskaloosa died Sunday, May 24, 2009, at Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab Center in Oskaloosa. He was born May 2, 1920 at Evans, the son of Robert R. and Mary M. Ridpath Fisher. Following school he entered the United States Army and served his country from 1941 – 1945. On October 5, 1946, he was united in marriage to Elsie Hiemstra at Oskaloosa. Elsie died February 16, 2009. They farmed near New Sharon early in their marriage. Later they moved to a farm near Fremont. Raymond also worked for Allied Gas and Chemical for a time. Lastly he worked for Binns and Stevens Explosives in Oskaloosa; he retired from there in 1982. In 1987 he and Elsie moved to Oskaloosa. He was a member of the Eagles and the American Legion. He enjoyed attending auctions, to purchase items for his collections, and tinkering in his shop. He delighted in spending time with his family.

His family includes three sons: James (& Barbara) Fisher of Dickinson, North Dakota, Chuck (& Carolyn) Fisher of Oskaloosa, and Raymond W. Fisher (and friend Connie Shivers) of Holt, Missouri; a daughter: Donna Crosby of Grimes; 12 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; a great great granddaughter; a brother and his wife: William and Imogene Fisher of Oskaloosa; two sisters: Sarah Prather of Oskaloosa, and Mary (& Gene) Morris of Colorado.

Besides his wife Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; and 3 brothers: George, Robert “Robbie” and Chuck Fisher.

Funeral services for Raymond Fisher will be held Friday, May 29, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Reverend Robert Morris Officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery. Graveside military rites will be given by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W. and D.A.V. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Thursday after 11 a.m. and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Thursday evening from 5 – 7 to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Iowa Hospice or the Military Honor Guard.

To send condolences to the Raymond A. Fisher family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

John Reeves
Oskaloosa. John W. Reeves, 83, of Oskaloosa, died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at his home. He was born June 7, 1925 at Pageville, Ohio, the son of Jesse and Inez Van Bibber Reeves. He graduated from the Harrisonville (OH) High School with the class of 1943. He served in the U. S. Navy during World War II. He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour while at the Great Lakes Naval Station. On April 20, 1946, John was united in marriage to Yvonne Plowman at Centerville, Iowa. Following his Navy discharge, John worked at Huttig Manufacturing in Muscatine; later at Montgomery Wards until that store closed; and then Bendix Westinghouse. From 1967 until retiring in 1989, John worked at Sears Roebuck Company in Huntington, West Virginia. Yvonne and John moved back to Oskaloosa in 1989. He was a member of the Hillside Bible Church, and enjoyed the children’s evangelistic program, and had been a director of the Church’s Awana program. He enjoyed fishing, working on automobiles and small engines, and listening to Southern Gospel music.

His family includes his wife of over 63 years, Yvonne of Oskaloosa; a son and his wife, Jonathan and Priscillia Reeves of Muncie, Indiana; a daughter and her husband: Catherine and Fred Roberts of Leighton; three grandchildren: Jason (Rebecca) Dunfee, Michael Dunfee, and Casandra Grace Reeves; six great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews including, Charles and Sandy Reeves, Allen and Cindy Reeves, Pamela and Scott Hankenson, and David and Julia Reeves.

John was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers: James Edward Reeves and Warren Delbert Reeves.

Graveside funeral services and burial for John Reeves will be Friday, May 22, 2009, at 11:30 a.m. at Bloomfield Cemetery east of Oskaloosa with Dan Kelderman officiating. Military rites will be given at the cemetery by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W., and D.A.V. Visitation with the family will be Friday from 10 – 11 a.m., at the Bates Funeral Chapel, Oskaloosa, and a procession will then form to move to the cemetery. Memorials may be made to Child Evangelism Fellowship, Oskaloosa, or Manna Ministries of Waco, Texas. Arrangements are by the Bates Funeral Chapel.

To send condolences to the John Reeves family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Edythe Benedict
Oskaloosa. Edythe DeJane Benedict, 85, of Oskaloosa, died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. She was born February 27, 1924 at Sparta, Wisconsin, the daughter of Jesse and Florentina Berg Williams. She graduated from the Sparta (WI) High School, and attended nursing school at Paris, Illinois and graduated from St. Joseph’s in Springfield, Illinois in May, 1945. On June 10, 1945, she was united in marriage to Carl M. Benedict, her high school sweetheart, at Paris, Illinois, and Carl died July 9, 2007. Edythe was a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Room at the Mahaska County Hospital in Oskaloosa for many years until retiring. She was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church, Oskaloosa, and the V.F.W. Auxiliary, and the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed tending her flower gardens; reading, baking, ceramics, and knitting, and knitted many caps for newborn babies born at the Mahaska Hospital. In retirement, Edythe also did private duty nursing in private homes in Oskaloosa for several years. She also volunteered and took library books around to local nursing homes.

Her family includes two sons: Carl “Snook” Benedict of St. Augustine, Florida and James “Chip” Benedict of Oskaloosa; two daughters: Jayne (& Scot) Lewton of Urbandale and Jenny (& Lyle) Dickey of Oskaloosa; nine grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and a brother: David (& Audrey) Williams of Waterloo.

Besides her husband, Edythe was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister: Ann Dunaway.

As was her wish, she has been cremated and neither visitation nor funeral is planned. Burial of the cremated remains will be in Sparta, Wisconsin at a future date. Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church. Arrangements are by the Bates Funeral Chapel, Oskaloosa.

To send condolences to the Edythe Benedict family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Mary Duffus
Hampton, Iowa. Mary H. Duffus, 97, of Hampton and formerly of Oskaloosa, died Friday, May 15, 2009, at the Franklin General Hospital nursing facility in Hampton. She was born January 6, 1912 in Leighton, Iowa the daughter of Fredrick and Wilhelmina Bieshaar Denburger. She graduated from Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1929. She was a registered nurse, graduating from the Mahaska Hospital School of Nursing in Oskaloosa with the class of 1934. Upon earning her Registered Nurse pin, Mary worked as a nurse for a time. On September 12, 1935, she was united in marriage to Robert S. Duffus in Leighton, and Bob died March 2, 1972. Following their marriage, Mary was a homemaker and stayed home to care for her family. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Oskaloosa, and P.E.O. Chapter X of Oskaloosa. She enjoyed golfing, and playing bridge.

Her family includes her two sons: James (& Barbara) Duffus, and John “Jack” Duffus all of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Besides her husband, Mary was preceded in death by her parents; a brother: Harry Denburger; and four sisters: Ruth Easton, Ada Larson, Martha Lowman and Freda Lytle.

Funeral services for Mary Duffus will be held Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at 10 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Reverend Dr. Dennis Morey officiating. Private family burial will be in the Ivy Hill Cemetery in Malcom. Visitation will begin Tuesday after 11 a.m. and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday from 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Oskaloosa Public Library.

To send condolences to the Mary Duffus family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Billy E. Brown
Oskaloosa. Billy Ellsworth Brown, 79, of Oskaloosa, died Thursday, May 14, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born June 26, 1929 in Mahaska County, the youngest of six children born to Lloyd Earl and Mildred Mary Edwards Brown. He attended school at Beacon and graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1946. Following school, he and his brother operated the Burlington Bus Depot & Dime Delivery, and then was a meat cutter at the old Supply Store. He served in the Army during the Korean War. He served in England with the 928th Av Eng Group; was a 2 time soldier of the month; a designated sharpshooter; and served on the honor guard while in the military. Following his discharge in 1953, Billy returned to Oskaloosa and went back to work at the Supply Store which became Hy-Vee, and worked as a meat cutter for 32 years and retired in 1982. While with Hy-Vee, Billy was privileged to go to the fair and buy 4 H grown meat; and was invited to a cattle ranch in Oklahoma and inducted into the Osage Indian tribe and given the honorary name, Wa-In-Gla-In-Kah, which meant bravery before sense. In retirement, he and Wilma owned and operated Apple Valley Meats and More in Oskaloosa from 1985 until 1995. He also enjoyed working part time with Carleton Powers at the Powers Funeral Home for many years. He was a very active member of the Central United Methodist Church, and served as an officer on many boards including chairman of the Administrative board, and an usher for almost 50 years. He enjoyed playing softball, bowling, golfing, fishing, model airplanes, and collecting clocks.

His family includes his wife, Wilma of Oskaloosa; a daughter and her husband: Cheryl and Allen Wissler of Oskaloosa; two sons and their wives: Brian and Sheri Brown and Kevin and Darci Brown, all of Oskaloosa; 8 grandchildren: Ryan, Joey, Spencer, and Christopher Wissler, and Tyler, Cody, Nicole, and Kyle Brown; a great grandson: Corey Wissler; a brother: Roy Brown of Cosmopolis, Washington; a brother in law: Dan Morris of Longmont, Colorado; and additional in-laws: Mary (& Henry) Roush, Larry (& Jeane) Nossaman, and Kenneth (& Marla) Nossaman, all of Pella, and Lee (& Joan) Nossaman of Leighton; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Kelli Jean Brown; 4 sisters: Amy Pickerell, Sylvia Kennedy, Louise Fox, and Bee Morris; three brothers in law: Lawrence Pickerell, Vilas Fox, and Charles Kennedy; and close family friends, Emery and Violetta Collins.

Funeral services for Bill Brown will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Central United Methodist Church in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Robert Dean officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa, with graveside military rites given by members of the Oskaloosa D.A.V., V.F.W., and American Legion. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Monday after 11 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Monday from 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church, Oskaloosa.

To send condolences to the Billy E. Brown family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Ronald Oetjen
Oskaloosa. Ronald W. Oetjen, 76, of Oskaloosa, died Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at the Sigourney Care Center in Sigourney of complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was born December 8, 1932 at Washington, Iowa, the son of Walter T. and Alyce Peterson Oetjen. He graduated from the Oskaloosa High School, and then served in the United States Air Force. On January 22, 1961, he was united in marriage to Linda Patterson at Oskaloosa. Ron was a fire fighter with the Oskaloosa Fire Department from 1962 until 1978. He then worked for the Oskaloosa Water Dept. until retiring in 1994. Ron also owned his own construction company in Oskaloosa. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Oskaloosa, and he enjoyed riding his bicycle, and woodworking.

His family includes his wife, Linda of Oskaloosa; three daughters and their husbands: Kae and Clayton Beatty of Omaha, Nebraska, Kim and Bryan Covey of Oskaloosa, and Kelli and Bob Crawford of Herington, Kansas; 13 grandchildren; and a brother: David Oetjen of The Villages, Florida.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Allen Ray Oetjen.

Funeral services for Ron Oetjen will be held Friday, May 15, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. in the Grace Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Roger Neumann officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery at Oskaloosa, with graveside military rites given by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W., and D.A.V. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Thursday after 11 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Thursday from 6 – 7:30 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

To send condolences to the Ronald Oetjen family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Conrad Germain
Oskaloosa. Conrad M. “Connie” Germain, 76, of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, May 10, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born October 26, 1932 at Somerset, Wisconsin, the son of Fred and Josephine Mondor Germain. He served as a combat engineer in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was a mechanical engineer, first with Whirlpool Corporation, and later for 3M for many years, in Minnesota, then Ames for 15 years, and again in Minnesota until retiring in the early 1990’s. On July 29, 1976, Connie was united in marriage to Barbara McCartie in South Dakota, and she died June 19, 2003. In retirement, they lived at Bella Vista, Arkansas for many years, and then in Grimes, Iowa. He wintered in Texas for many years. Shortly after the death of his wife, he moved to Oskaloosa from Grimes.

His family includes three daughters: Rebecca Williams of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, Catherine Lund of Detroit, Michigan, and Ellen Germain of Redford, Michigan; three sons: Lawrence “Larry” Germain and Robert “Bob” (and Alice) Germain all of Juneau, Alaska, and John Germain of Wasilla, Alaska; two stepsons: Don McCartie and Dan McCartie, both of Oskaloosa; 21 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; three sisters: Ester Campbell, Mildred Oczak, and Delores Pariana, all in Minnesota; and a special friend: Judy Gatewood of Oskaloosa.

Besides his wife, Connie was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson: Justin Backous, 4 sisters: Elsie Breault, Alma Lanzo, Donna Schickert, and Ruby Wrich; and 3 brothers: Lloyd Germain, Verlyn Germain, and Allan Germain.

Funeral services for Connie Germain will be held Friday, May 15, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, with Pastor Alvern Boetsma officiating. Military rites will be accorded immediately after the funeral ceremony by members of the Oskaloosa D.A.V., V.F.W., and American Legion. As was his wish, he will then be cremated and burial of the cremated remains will be at a later date in Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin at the funeral chapel on Thursday after 11 a.m., and the family will be present Thursday from 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

To send condolences to the Conrad Germain family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Tom Reese
Oskaloosa. F. Thomas Reese, 86, of Oskaloosa, died Tuesday night, May 5, 2009, at his home. He was born May 8, 1922 north of Wright, the son of Frank and Ruth Rice Reese. He attended school at the old Mission Ridge country school, and graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1940. After high school he farmed with his father until entering the United States Army during the last years of World War II, and served in Japan in the military police. On June 23, 1945, he was united in marriage to Betty Jefferson at Camp Hood (now Fort Hood), Texas. Following his discharge from the Army, he returned to farming. In 1973, Tom and Betty moved into Oskaloosa and Tom worked at PAMCO for ten years, and also mowed yards and moved snow for many townspeople, and at one time mowed 21 different yards. He did not have a lazy bone in his body.

His family includes his wife of over 63 years, Betty Reese of Oskaloosa; a daughter, Peggy Spencer of Oskaloosa; two granddaughters: Lori (and Don) Simons and Lisa (& Darren) Eden; a great grandson: Noah; a sister: Marie Lantz of Sylvania, Ohio; his sister and brother in law: Marilyn and Carroll Hittle of Oskaloosa; four nieces and many other relatives and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; two sons: Dana Reese in 2008, and Larry Eugene in infancy; and two aunts.

Funeral services for Tom Reese will be held Saturday, May 9, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Michael Dotson officiating. Burial will be in the White Oak Cemetery east of Oskaloosa, with graveside military rites given by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W. and D.A.V. Visitation will begin at the funeral chapel on Friday after 11 a.m. and the family will be present Friday 5 – 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Tom Reese Memorial Fund.

To send condolences to the Tom Reese family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Dorothy Ballinger
Oskaloosa. Dorothy Ballinger, 84, of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, May 3, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital, Oskaloosa. She was born December 28, 1924 at Olds, Iowa, the daughter of Ira and Ethel Hough Owens. She graduated from the Olds High School with the class of 1942. On May 9, 1943, she was married to George Kime, and to this union was born two sons, Steven and Jerry Kime. George died March 17, 1960. She was united in marriage to Gerrit “Cookie” DeKock on February 28, 1963, and Cookie died March 28, 1983. Dorothy had been the head cook at the Hedrick schools, and later was a waitress in several Oskaloosa restaurants including Boston’s Café and Calhoun Diner. She was owner and cook for the ‘Chuck Wagon’ in Oskaloosa, and also bookkeeper for her husband’s business, O K Body Shop. On August 10, 1985, she was united in marriage to George Ballinger in the Little Brown Church at Nashua, Iowa. She enjoyed watching sports, and in her early years, fishing, cooking, and playing cards. Dorothy was a member of the First Christian Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve.

Her family includes her husband, George Ballinger of Oskaloosa; two sons and their wives: Steven and Connie Kime and Jerry and Shirley Kime, all of Oskaloosa; three grandchildren: Bryan (Becky) Kime, Jeff (Karissa) Kime, and Jay (Carol) Kime; five great grandchildren: Leanna, Katelyn, Jacobs, Cody, and Kaylee. She is also survived by four stepdaughters; many nieces and nephews, and special friends, Richard and Patricia McCulley.

Besides her two husbands, Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; a brother: Virgil Owens and two sisters: Mildred Gipple and Donna McKeever.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 7, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel with the Reverend Michael Omundson officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery, Oskaloosa. Open visitation will begin at the funeral chapel on Wednesday after 11 a.m. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, Oskaloosa.

To send condolences to the Dorothy Ballinger family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Irving Sodak
Oskaloosa. Irving “Sody” F. Sodak, 87, of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, May 3, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born June 9, 1921, at Evans, Iowa, the son of John and Ellen Mitrisin Sodak. He graduated from the Oskaloosa Senior High with the class of 1938, and following high school he worked at the A&P Market in Oskaloosa. In 1942 he entered the United States Army Air Force and served his country during WWII. Upon being honorably discharged from the military he went to work for Iowa Valve, now Clow, from 1947 – 1965. On November 28, 1949, he was united in marriage to Marion Hensley at St. Mary’s Church in Oskaloosa. In 1965 he went to work for the United States Postal Service, and retired from there in 1986 after 21 years of service. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oskaloosa, Knights of Columbus, Marion Council 4108, the International Association of Machinists, American Postal Worker’s Union, the Eagles, American Legion and the South Central Iowa Bass Club. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He devoted his life to his family, and enjoyed attending as many of his children and grandchildren’s events that he could, especially attending baseball games. He also enjoyed listening to music and doing crossword puzzles.

His family includes his wife of nearly 60 years, Marion Sodak of Oskaloosa: three daughters and their husbands: Mary Jo and Craig Akers of rural Albia, Kathy and Tony Sedrel of Oskaloosa, and Diane and Andy Davis of Oskaloosa; two sons and their wives: John Patrick and Kham Sodak, and Mike and Trina Sodak all of Oskaloosa; 12 grandchildren; Five great grandchildren; and a sister: Dorothy Green of Newton.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mass of the Christian Burial for Irving Sodak will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at 11 a.m. in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oskaloosa with Reverend Thomas Spiegel officiating. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Oskaloosa. With Graveside Military Rites given by mambers of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W., and D.A.V. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday after 12 noon. A Rosary will be recited at 5:30 p.m. at the funeral chapel and the family will greet friends and relatives until 7:30 Tuesday evening. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice or St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

To send condolences to the Irving Sodak family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Muriel Burdock
Oskaloosa. Muriel A. Burdock, 84, of Oskaloosa, died Wednesday, April 29, 2009, from complications from a stroke, at the Long Term Care Facility of the Pella Regional Health Center. She was born March 16, 1925, at Kirkville, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas and Florence Ross Kerr. She graduated from the Kirkville High School with the class 1944. She furthered her education by attending Murphy’s Business College in Oskaloosa for one year. Early in her adult life she worked as a secretary at the Oskaloosa Chamber of Commerce. On January 3, 1945, she was united in marriage to Fred Burdock at Oskaloosa. She and Fred farmed for many years together. In the early 1970’s they started Burdock Trucking and R.V. a business they ran together for many many years. She was a longtime member of the Central United Methodist Church. Muriel was also a member of the Harrison Homemakers Neighborhood Club. She enjoyed flower gardening, cooking and baking, crocheting, fishing, camping, and especially hunting Morel Mushrooms. She delighted in teaching her girls to sew. She and Fred also enjoyed begin honored as the Southern Iowa Fair King and Queen in 1996. Muriel was a two time cancer survivor. She found her joy in life through the love she shared with her family and friends.

Her family includes her husband of over 64 years, Fred Burdock of Pella; a son and his wife: Don and Carla Burdock of Keswick; two daughters and their husbands: Eileen and Lyle Blom of Oskaloosa, and Beverly and Richard Atchison of Pella; several grandchildren: Bob Burdock, Jeff Burdock, Kevin Burdock, Melissa Trumpold, Heather Burdock, Jack Blom, Jay Blom, Janelle Randau, Todd Atchison, and Tedd Atchison; and many great grandchildren.

Muriel was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister Donna Johnson.

Funeral services for Muriel Burdock will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Central United Methodist Church in Oskaloosa with Reverends Robert Dean and Charles McMillan officiating. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery at Eddyville. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will begin Tuesday morning after 10 and the family will be at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday evening from 6—8 to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Pella Regional Health Center Long Term Care Rehab Center.

To send condolences to the Muriel Burdock family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Eva Schinkel
Oskaloosa. (Henrietta) Eva Schinkel, 90, of Oskaloosa, died Friday, April 24, 2009, at the Oskaloosa Care Center in Oskaloosa. She was born August 14, 1918 at Killduff, the daughter of Gerrit and Dena Rempe Meppelink. On February 24, 1939, she was united in marriage to Joe C. Schinkel at Oskaloosa, and Joe died on December 3, 1994. They farmed near Lacey for many years, and moved into Oskaloosa in 1962, and Eva worked at the old Lynn’s Poultry for 13 years, and then was a cook at the Agency on Aging for several years. She was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church, and she enjoyed gardening, cooking, canning, and handiwork especially cross stitch and quilting.

Her family includes two daughters: Joyce (& Marvin) Current of Oskaloosa and Leona “Toni” Kechter of Lakewood, Colorado; two grandchildren: Marion Van Mersbergen and Donald Van Mersbergen; seven step grandchildren: Debbie Andersen, Joe Kechter, and Rodney Kechter, Marc Current, Wendy Bracy, Lee Current, and Leanne Bartlow; and a sister: Grace (& Henry) Van Weelden of Oskaloosa.

Besides her husband, Eva was preceded in death by her parents; a son in law: Ray Kechter; a step great grandson: Matt Kechter; brother: John Meppelink; and a sister: Klazina Fopma.

Funeral services for Eva Schinkel will be held Thursday, April 30, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bethel Baptist Church in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Bruce Thompson officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery at Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Wednesday after 10 a.m., and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Wednesday from 6 – 8 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter.

To send condolences to the Eva Schinkel family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Bonnie Maudlin
Oskaloosa. LaVonne “Bonnie” Maudlin, 80, of Oskaloosa died Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. She was born October 25, 1928, at New Sharon, the daughter of Roy H. and Reba E. Meenach Coons. She graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1946. Following graduation Bonnie worked at the United Grocery Store in Oskaloosa, and then she went to work for Rolscreen (now Pella Corporation). On August 27, 1956 she was united in marriage to Charles Maudlin in Oskaloosa. Charles died November 15, 1958. Lastly she worked at Dean’s Coffee Shop for several years. After she left Dean’s she stayed home to care for her family. Bonnie was a member of the Eagles and American Legion Auxiliaries. She enjoyed reading and playing Bingo. She was also a very strong supporter of any veteran’s organization.

Her family includes her son and his wife, Rodney and Dot Maudlin of Eddyville; two granddaughters: Casey Schares and Carrie Folkerts; 5 great grandchildren; 2 nephews, and a niece.

Besides her husband, Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, her step father: Henry McAdoo; 3 sisters: Fleta Sparks, Lenore Lamb, and an infant sister, Lucille Coons; 3 step brothers; and three step sisters.

Graveside funeral services and burial for Bonnie Maudlin will be held Monday, April 27, 2009, at 2 p.m. at the Friends Cemetery in Oskaloosa with Reverend Thomas Spiegel officiating. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Open visitation will be Sunday afternoon from 3 – 7 at the Bates Funeral Chapel. Open visitation will resume Monday morning from 9 a.m. until 1:40 p.m. at which time a procession will form to go to the cemetery. Memorials may be made to the D.A.V. or the V.F.W.

To send condolences to the Bonnie Maudlin family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.

Shirley Bailey
Oskaloosa. Shirley E. Bailey, 80, of Oskaloosa, died Monday, April 20, 2009, at the Mahaska Hospital in Oskaloosa. She was born on October 1, 1928 at Oskaloosa, the daughter of Loren and Aimee Core Grubb. Shirley graduated from the Barnes City High School with the class of 1945, and then attended Iowa State Teachers College (now U.N.I.) for two years and received her teaching certificate. She taught 2nd grade at Rockwell City for two years before moving to Oskaloosa, where she taught at Whittier Elementary until 1957. On May 31, 1951, Shirley was united in marriage to Donald C. Bailey at Barnes City. She then stayed home to help raise her family, but in later years Shirley did substitute teaching for the Oskaloosa schools. She attended Bethel Baptist Church in Oskaloosa, and enjoyed supporting missionary work; working in the nursery; and attending Bible study with friends. Shirley delighted in attending grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, reading, gardening, and camping. She enjoyed watching basketball on television, especially Iowa, Iowa State, and U.N.I. games.

Her family includes her husband: Donald Bailey of Oskaloosa; a daughter and her husband: Lauren and Jim McMahan of Oskaloosa; and three grandchildren: Weslee, Bradlee, and Autumn McMahan (& fiancée: Keith Reisetter).

She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Charles Bailey.

Funeral services for Shirley Bailey will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at 10 a.m. in Bethel Baptist Church in Oskaloosa with the Reverend Bruce Thompson officiating. Burial will be in the Madison Township Cemetery, northwest of Oskaloosa. Visitation will begin at the Bates Funeral Chapel on Tuesday after 12 noon, and the family will be at the funeral chapel on Tuesday from 6 – 8 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to World Gospel Mission.

To send condolences to the Shirley Bailey family, send e-mails to: director@batesfuneralchapel.com.