Spring 2025 Obituaries

Obituaries

1948 

Wilma Schmidt Shadle, 98, of Marshalltown, Iowa on November 23. Wilma was born September 5, 1926 in Rockford, Iowa to Charles George and Emilie (Keiser) Schmidt. She grew up in Rockford and graduated from Rockford High School. Wilma received her Bachelor’s Degree from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Wilma was employed as a secretary and later in public relations at Rockwell-Collins in Cedar Rapids from 1954 until her retirement in 1988. Wilma served as the secretary for Arthur Collins for many years. Wilma married Carol F. Shadle on February 14, 1953, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They enjoyed 44 years of marriage. Wilma was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, the Anna Abigail Circle at St. Paul’s, Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA), B.P.W., A.N. Palmer Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals and the Cedar Rapids Public Relations Associates. She served as the secretary for the Cedar Rapids Community Concerts Association for 19 years. Wilma was actively involved in the community and found pleasure in supporting local events. In her spare time, Wilma was fond of reading, going to concerts and plays, listening to music, dining out, gardening and attending Thursday Forum at Coe College. Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, husband and special friend Dorothy North. Wilma is survived by her special friend Ernie Miller, her many cousins and long-time friends and their families. Her quiet strength and warm smile will be missed.

1949 

Eugene “Gene” Brown, 99, of Midwest City, Oklahoma on August 7. Lt. Col (Ret) Eugene F. “Gene” Brown, of Midwest City, Oklahoma was born on July 7, 1925 in Marengo, Iowa to Fred and Ina (Young) Brown. In May 1943, Gene enlisted in the Army Air Corps for flight training and graduated as a navigator. He then attended and graduated from Coe College in 1949. While at Coe, he met the love of his life, Beryl Hoover. They were married in December 1947. Together they were blessed with three children. In July 1950, Gene was recalled to active duty service and joined the Air Force where he dedicated 30 years to our country. During training in North Dakota, his C47 aircraft encountered engine trouble, crashed and put Gene in a full body cast for several months. After making a full recovery, he was ready to keep serving his country. While in the military, he served in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Gene was able to take his family to live in many great places, including an assignment in Ethiopia. Following his military career, Gene and Beryl moved to Midwest City where he used his master's degree in business to teach accounting at Rose State College for 10 years. After retirement, Gene stayed busy golfing, going to their lake cabin, traveling and watching Oklahoma State sports. Gene loved helping others. He was a Shriner and drove children to Shriners Children's Hospital. He prepared taxes for AARP well into his 90’s. He was a faithful member of St. Matthew United Methodist Church and devoted much of his time to his church. Gene was preceded in death by his wife of almost 70 years, Beryl Hoover Brown, his sons, Steven E. Brown and Todd D. Brown, his parents, and his three sisters, Dorothy, Marylois and Shirley. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Bobby Randolph; grandson, Tyler Randolph; daughter-in-law, Norma Brown and his beloved nieces and nephews.

1950 

Donald Kline, 99, of Williamsburg, Virginia on August 19. He was born in Mishawaka, Indiana on December 7, 1924, the son of Ivan and Elsie Schiller Kline. He grew up in Milford, Indiana, and graduated from Milford High School in 1942. He entered the U.S. Army on February 27, 1943, and served as a medical technician in the 672nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion. Donald was honorably discharged on January 6, 1946, in the grade of Staff Sergeant. He was awarded the Combat Medical Badge, as well as medals for The Asiatic/Pacific Theater, Philippines Liberation, World War II Victory, Good Conduct, American Campaign and National Defense. In August, 2011, President Barack Obama signed a Presidential Unit Citation for the 672nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, and also for elements of the 11th Airborne Division for their part in the liberation of 2,147 civilian prisoners from the Japanese prison camp near Los Banos. He married InaBelle Long, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on July 24, 1947. They had two children: Christopher and Katrina. InaBelle died on February 24, 2005. He earned the degrees of Bachelor of Arts from Coe College, Master of Arts from Drake University, and Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Bethany Theological Seminary. Ordained to the ministry of the Church of the Brethren, he served in the pastorate for fifteen years. He also taught high school English for three years before he became a college professor of English. Donald is survived by his daughter, Katrina Kline Scordo (Joseph); grandsons, Joseph Maximus Scordo, Anothony Scordo (Christina) and Trace Scordo; and great-grandson, Carter Scordo.

1951 

Deloris Ullrich Blaufuss, 95, of Burlington, Iowa on December 23. Born October 30, 1929, in West Burlington, she was the daughter of Walter and Clematice Woodard Ullrich. On June 5, 1955, she married Charles O. Blaufuss in Burlington. He died May 18, 2011. Deloris graduated from Burlington High School, Burlington Junior College and went on to receive a Bachelor of Music degree from Coe College. Prior to her marriage, she taught music and English at Letts, Iowa Consolidated Schools and in Yarmouth, Iowa Consolidated Schools. After her marriage, she was a homemaker. She was also a secretary for St. Luke United Church of Christ. Deloris was a member of St. Luke United Church of Christ and St. Luke Sunday School. She taught in the Sunday School for over 60 years and was the superintendent there as well. She was also a member of St. Luke Peace Fellowship, St. Luke Women's Fellowship, St. Luke Consistory, Sarah Circle, Advisory Council of the Southeastern Iowa Association of the United Church of Christ and a member of the Burlington area CROP Walk Steering Committee. She was a Cub Scout den mother and a Brownie leader. Her special joy was her family. Survivors include her daughter, Deborah Blaufuss; four sons, Stephen (Christiane) Blaufuss, Craig (Vicki) Blaufuss, Kurt (Mary) Schaller Blaufuss, Erich (Elizabeth Cooley) Blaufuss; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her twin sister, Doris Dean Ullrich and brother, Donald E. Ullrich.

Guerin Thompson, 95, of Coralville, Iowa on January 14. Guerin was born on May 31, 1929, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Karl and Doris (Yetter) Thompson. He graduated from Franklin High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He attended Coe College, where he met the love of his life, Mary Kay Hurst. They were married on November 23, 1951. They made their home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and raised two children, Mark and Susan, before moving to Iowa City in 1978. Guerin entered the Air Force in 1951 and served in the Korean War through 1953. He retired from the Air Force Reserves as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1989. Dr. Thompson was an educator and administrator in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City School Districts, serving at Jackson Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Pierce Elementary, Nixon Elementary, the Iowa City Administration Building and retiring from Hoover Elementary in 1989. Guerin and Mary Kay loved spending time with their families in Iowa and Colorado. He was an avid reader and enjoyed watching sports. Guerin was an active tennis player throughout his life. Guerin is survived by his son Mark (Pam) Thompson, his daughter Sue (Tom) Belger, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren and his brother, Byron (Sheryl) Thompson. He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and his sister, June Mengler.

Gilbert “Gil” Lehman, 98, of Wheaton, Illinois on January 16. He was born August 14, 1926 in Clinton, Iowa to Gilbert Sr., a music teacher & Ester Lehman. He grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and an equally strong avoidance of dish washing. Summers were spent working hard on a family farm in Berne, Indiana, where his efforts were rewarded with room, board and an occasional swim in the reservoir. Known as "Junior," Gil graduated from Dixon High School in 1944 and joined the Air Force in 1945, with plans to be a fighter pilot. VJ Day, and his color-blindness changed those plans. He began as a clerk, and became a cryptographer. Gil attended Coe College, where he served in the ROTC and marched in Harry Truman's inaugural parade. At Coe, Gil met the love of his life, Lola Dodder and they married in 1950. Gil graduated from Coe in 1951, summa cum laude. Gil returned to service as a 1st Lieutenant, and served as an Administrative Officer in Reno Nevada. His work in the Air Force developed his unique blend of high standards and grace, seeing potential in all people, even at their worst. He attained the rank of Captain prior to returning to civilian life. The birth of Jeanne, in 1953, and Kathryn, in 1956, led Gil and Lola back to Dysart Iowa, where he became a music teacher. Gil then followed his closest friend, Martin Crabtree, to Wheaton Illinois where the teachers' union provided greater opportunity for his new family. Joel was born in 1964. Gil taught at Franklin Jr. High and Wheaton North High School. He played in bands, taught music and was principal at Franklin where he was one of the few to fly the flag at half staff when Dr Martin Luther King Jr. was killed. He also introduced a pen pal program, where kids from suburban Wheaton connected with their peers at DuSable, in Chicago. Gil and Lola were active members of Gary United Methodist Church. His faith was both thoughtful and curious, leading him to study the world through its history, people, events and traditions. Gil's true vocation was music education. He created Wheaton North's music program and was its band director for 23 years. Gil had the remarkable ability to see (and stop) any mischievous kid in a 100 piece band with "The Look" while continuing to conduct and cue in the next passage. During much of that time, he also directed the choir at the First Presbyterian Church. Through a surprising chain of events, Gil was elected President of the Wheaton Teacher's Union, a role he didn't want, but performed successfully. Gil retired in 1986 and began a wonderful chapter of travel, service and enjoyment of the beauty in the world and its cultures. Winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama introduced them to new places, new music and new friends as well. He is survived by his children Jeanne (Scott) Wolf, Kathryn (Ananth) Lehman-Srinivasan, Joel (Kristy) Lehman; his grandchildren Katie (Chris) Dent, Michael Wolf, Lindsay (Steve) Burdsall, Sonia (Jon) Srinivasan-Lau, Connor (Maia) Lehman, Vance Lehman and Sophia Leupi; his great-grandchildren Tyler, Chloe, Dylan and Amara and brother-in-law Bob (Susanne) Dodder. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 70 years and his siblings Lorraine Stonesifer, Joel Lehman and Luella (Nonie) Parker.

1952 

Gene Sell, 96, of Marion, Iowa on August 11. Gene was born on December 17, 1927 in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from Franklin high school in 1945 and later graduated from Coe College. Gene spent time in the US Navy, later teaching mathematics at Davenport High School and at Dubai University in Al Ain UAE. Gene spent several years as a computer programmer working for Systems development corporation SDC where he helped code the first ICBM system. Later he was employed by Univac corporation and Merchants national bank. He loved to work with wood and enjoyed fishing trips with his family in Minnesota and Canada. He spent much time looking to make life better for those he loved, and he did. Gene is survived by his son John Sell, granddaughter Josephine Thompkins and grandson Jonah Thompkins. Preceding him in death were his first wife Ramona and second wife Marilyn, along with daughter Joanne Thompkins. 

Celia “CeCe” Lynch Can Metre, 84, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on December 14. 
Cece graduated from Franklin High School (1948), Coe College (Bachelor of Arts 1952) and the University of Iowa (Master of Arts in Speech Pathology 1956). Education, philanthropy and community service were integral parts of Cece’s life. She served on the Coe College Board of Trustees from 1998 to 2007, was active in Coe’s Alumni Association and served as its national president from 1973 to 1975 and was recipient of Coe’s Distinguished Service Award for Educator and Volunteer in 2012. In 2018, she was awarded Honorary Alumna to Cornell College. Cece also served on the Board of Directors of Tanager Place (formerly known as The Children’s Home) and the Linn County History Center, active in HACAP and the Cedar Rapids Recreation Center and was a volunteer teacher at the Jane Boyd Community House, Project Head Start and Montessori School. She was also a member of the Kappa Delta sorority, the First Congregational Church, Chapter JI of P.E.O. and the Home Garden Club, of which she was a Master Gardener. Her fondest memories were numerous Christmas Eve parties with close neighbors and friends; the Coe/Cornell football rivalry and pre- and post-game tailgate parties; trips to Europe, especially Ireland; hosting “Grammy Camp” for her grandchildren; family reunions at “440” and knitting her beloved Christmas Stockings for family and friends. Cece is survived by her three sons Douglas (Molly), Craig (Donna), and Kent (Susan); her brother Charles “Jerry” Lynch (Heidi); grandchildren Benjamin (Ashley), Nathan (Holly), Mary, Harriet, Abigail and Holland; great-grandchildren Harrison, Dalton, Mason and Adeline; numerous nieces and nephews; and childhood and lifelong friend, Sue Oglanian. She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-four years, Douglas C. Van Metre; both parents; her sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Ed Beatty; and her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and David Van Metre.

1956

Barbara Stubbs Johnson, 90, of Manhattan, Kansas on July 30. Barbara Ann Johnson (Stubbs), known affectionately as Barb, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024, at the age of 90 in Manhattan, Kansas. Born June 30, 1934, in Burlington, Iowa, she embarked on a lifelong journey of education, teaching, and service, touching many lives along the way. Barbara completed her Bachelor of Science in Sociology and History at Coe College in Cedar Rapids in 1956. She furthered her education at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, where she met her future husband, Robert Johnson. Barb earned her PhD in Reading, Racial and Cultural Diversity, and Oral Language Pathology from Kansas State University in 1974, receiving numerous academic honors throughout her studies. Her career as an educator spanned several states and countries, including positions in Manhattan, Kansas City, Maryland, California, Iowa and Nigeria. Barbara was devoted to her family, her faith and nature's wonder. She loved getting together with family for birthdays, holidays and any other reason to gather. She also enjoyed playing games with the kids and following all their activities. She felt fulfilled with her many duties at Peace Lutheran - from serving on Church Council and several other committees to working with children through Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She loved to garden and was very proud of her many varieties of flowers. She enjoyed nature, from viewing the Sandhill Cranes in Nebraska, to going on safari in Kenya. Barb and Bob's love story was one of devotion, adventure, and travel. After meeting at the University of Wisconsin and marrying soon after, they briefly moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa where Elizabeth was born, then on to Davis, California. After another move to College Park, Maryland, and the birth of Geoff, they settled in Manhattan, where they raised their two children. Bob's work for K-State took them to Nigeria for two years which led to their family going on holidays across Europe and the Middle East. She and Bob traveled to 20+ countries, including multiple countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas where they immersed themselves in a myriad of cultures. She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, Bob Johnson, and their children, Elizabeth Nelson (Steve) and Geoff Johnson (Jennifer). Barbara was a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren: Trenton Nelson (Rawni), Scott Nelson (Madison), Evan Nelson (Samantha), Andrew Johnson, Matthew Johnson, and Lauren Johnson. She also immensely enjoyed her four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Dorothea Stubbs, along with several other beloved relatives.

Marily “Alice” Sisco Lindsey, 87, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on October 18. Alice Lindsey passed away at home with her family after a long illness. She was a dedicated member of the musical community for many years. At the age of eleven, Alice put together a piano program and went around the neighborhood recruiting students. She went on to teach music for a total of 78 years. 
Alice earned her Bachelor's Degree in Music from Coe College and then a master’s degree from the University of Iowa. Alice taught in the Cedar Rapids schools, West Music and most recently Just Make Music. She was also the music and choir director at Asbury Church for forty years. Survivors include daughters; Diana Ryan, Rachelle Hansen, Maria Iannone and Anastasia Lindsey, along with six grandchildren and several great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Dean Lindsey.

1957 

James “Jim” Rhatigan, 89, of Wichita, Kansas on October 27. James J. "Jim" Rhatigan died Sunday October 27, 2024 at the age of 89. He is best known as the longtime Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Wichita State University. He was hired by WSU President Emory Lindquist in 1965, to build a modern Student Affairs program on the "new" Wichita State campus which had just entered the State System of higher education. When he arrived, at age 30, he was the youngest Chief Student Affairs administrator in the nation for institutions of 10,000 students and above. Just a decade later he was elected President of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) the principle professional organization for college and university administrators, today numbering 15,000. At the time of his retirement from Student Affairs, Jim's record of publication ranked in the top one percent of his field. The Student Affairs program was recognized as among the best in the nation on urban campuses. Jim later spent nearly two decades as a half-time employee of the Wichita State Foundation where he continued as an unpaid consultant for the remainder of his life. As a University Administrator at Wichita State, Jim was an advocate and friend to thousands of university students. Often, these relationships ran far longer than their years of enrollment. He believed in an "ethic of caring" and his staff reflected that ethic. He also was thankful for countless faculty and staff across the campus who contributed to the well-being of students. In 1997, the student center on the campus was named in his honor. While Jim appreciated his professional record, his heart and mind centered on the love of his family. He believed that the true importance of life is what happens in one's ordinary days. He spent those days (eventually decades) with his wife, Beverly, his daughter, Becky, son-in-law Joe Linot and his two grandsons, Alec and Reid (Natalie). These were years of love, warmth and gratitude. Jim served on many boards during his Wichita years and was a charter member of the University Congregational Church. 

Georjann Paulsen Deutsch, 89, of Hugo, Minnesota on December 25. Georjann Deutsch passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. She was born June 28, 1935 in Davenport, Iowa to Harry and Marie Paulsen. She is preceded in death by husband, Hal; son-in-law, Brian Preisler; her parents, siblings & many friends. She is survived by daughters, Holly Preisler and Lisa (Rick) Heroff; and sons, Greg Deutsch, Mark (Barb) Deutsch, and David Deutsch; grandchildren, Jaime, Rebecca, Jaclyn, Kevin, Kyle, Kate, Karina, William; and 11 great grandchildren. Georjann graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids Iowa with a degree in elementary education and was a part of the Tri Delta sorority. She was married to Hal on June 22, 1957, in Davenport, Iowa and they began their lives together in El Paso, Texas at Fort Bliss. After Texas, they moved to White Bear Lake where she taught for many years at St. Pius. Upon her retirement Georjann and Hal moved permanently to their lake home on Little Whitefish Lake near Garrison, they lived there for 22 years until returning to the Twin City area. While living at the lake, Georjann was active in the Garrison Lions Club. She also enjoyed her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens at her lake home. Georjann was a teacher by profession, but also at heart. She was always excited to read to her grandkids and great grandkids as well as help them design and sew their first quilts. Georjann was a social butterfly, she loved playing cards with friends and going to her sewing classes. To know Georjann is to know that she was a beautiful seamstress and quilter. Everyone who met her instantly knew she was a compassionate, gentle, patient, funny, open minded, encouraging and a generous longtime friend. Her friends and family will miss her dearly, but think of her often especially while cozying up under one of her quilts.

1959 

Nancy Bros Welch, 87, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota on October 14. Nancy Elizabeth (Bros) Welch, 87, passed away on October 14 surrounded by family. Born on June 20, 1937, in Minneapolis, Nancy graduated from Edina High School in 1955, where she met some of her most cherished, lifelong friends. After high school, Nancy attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she studied elementary education, joined the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and met her husband of 65 years, Bill Welch. After graduating college, Nancy and Bill married and taught in Bloomfield, Iowa for one year before moving to Davenport, Iowa, where their daughter Wendy was born. In 1961, Nancy and Bill moved to Bloomington, Minnesota, where Bill taught in the Edina Public School system for 33 years. Son David was born in March 1963 and the family moved to Edina, Minnesota in 1968. Nancy worked as an English para-professional in the Edina school system, helping to review student essays. Her summers were spent at Cobble Crest, the family lake home, located just outside Brainerd, Minnesota, where she hosted endless streams of visiting friends, family and friends of family with grace, warmth and kindness. Nancy also enjoyed reading, spending time on Hilton Head Island, creating gorgeous cross stitch art, traveling the world, and beating anyone who dared to play her in Hand and Foot. A beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother and friend, Nancy is survived by her husband Bill and their children, Wendy Grim (Roger) and David (Allie); her four grandchildren, Matthew Grim (Jenna), Jack, Joseph, and Brendan; her brother, Daniel Bros (Ann); her two nephews, Andrew Bros (Heidi) and Rob Bros (Shannon); and numerous cousins and relatives. She is preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Frances Bros.

Janet “Janice” Robertson Miller, 87, of Chesterfield, Missouri on November 18. Beloved wife of the late Stanley D. Miller for 70 years who predeceased her in October 2024; cherished mother of Bradley D. Miller; dear aunt, cousin and friend to many. Jan was a devoted, loving wife, and mother to an adopted son. She grew up on her family’s farm in Crawfordsville, Iowa. Jan was an exceptional student, graduating top of her class at Wyman High School in Wyman, Iowa. She was Phi Beta Kappa at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in addition to serving as president of both Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, and the entire Coe student body. During her freshman year at Coe, she met Stan, her beloved husband of nearly 70 years. Jan enjoyed a long career teaching middle-school social studies and English in the Parkway School District. She was also an active member of her community, and her Presbyterian church, Ladue Chapel. As a Stephen Minister, she took great pride and joy in assisting others navigate difficult periods in their lives. She was a primary supporter of helping the homeless through The St. Patrick Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Jan was an avid volunteer, and a member of various charities, clubs and programs, to include active membership in the American Association of University Women, and the KR Chapter of P.E.O., as well as being a charter member of The Ballwin Chesterfield Investment Club, and The Town and Country Garden Club. An avid sports fan along with her husband Stan, she could be found at various sporting events as a season ticket holder for her beloved St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, St. Louis University Billikens basketball team, and the Iowa Hawkeyes football team. Jan was always a pure joy to be around and radiated love, kindness, and compassion to everyone she knew, or met. She taught her adopted son many significant, and enduring life lessons, the most salient being, “Always strive to be loving, kind, and compassionate because love, kindness and compassion are, and always will be omnipotent.”

Stanley Miller, 87, of Chesterfield, Missouri on October 31. Stanley D. Miller, beloved husband of Janet Rae Miller (nee Robertson) for 70 years; cherished father of Bradley D. Miller; dear brother of Judith Thompson, Douglas (Connie) Miller and Kathleen Miller; dear uncle, cousin and friend to many. Stan was a hard-working, and dedicated husband, provider and father to an adopted son. He enjoyed a long, successful career in banking and finance and was an executive officer at some of the largest financial institutions in Missouri to include United Missouri Bank, Mark Twain Bank, Mercantile Bank, Commerce Bank and Tower Grove Bank. Stan’s interests and hobbies also defined him. He was an excellent, lifelong athlete, a two sport, football and baseball, scholarship athlete at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where, as a freshman he met his wife, Jan. Stan loved to play tennis and won multiple club championships in both singles and doubles at Town & Country Racquet club. An enthusiastic cyclist, Stan completed The Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) over a dozen times. Being an Iowa native and a graduate of The University of Iowa College of Law, Stan loved the great state of Iowa and was a lifetime super-fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Stan also served his country proudly as an Officer in the Army Reserves of the Iowa National Guard. Charismatic and sociable, Stan was a joy to be around. He could charm the bees from the flowers and trees and was always ready with a funny quip or humorous story for anyone he met. He taught his adopted son many significant, enduring lessons, the most important being, “Always keep your eye on the ball,” and, “Always give one hundred percent in everything you do.”

1960

Robert “Bob” Trimpl, 86, of Noblesville, Indiana on October 14. He was born April 26, 1938 in Peoria, Illinois, the son of the late William Weston Sr. and Don Lorene (Hasenjaeger) Trimpl. He married Alice Thanet Kelly on October 19, 1963. She preceded him in passing on April 18, 2003. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in passing by his three siblings: William W. Trimpl, Jr., Shirley Fitch and Norma Thompson. Bob proudly and honorably served in the United States Air Force for 22 years and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1982. He then began his second career with USA Group as a manager in Loan Services and retired 14 years later as the Vice-President of Loan Conversion. Bob filled his days doing what he loved, serving his community and being active in the church. He was a member of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church where he was Lay reader, a former Vestry member and a member of the Saturday Men’s Prayer Group. Bob never knew a stranger and loved meeting and talking with people. He was a Docent at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential House/Site for 14 years and he volunteered countless hours visiting patients at both St. Vincent's Hospital on 86th Street and the Roudebush VA Medical Center. He was a member of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) where he and a number of other veterans created a Program called Veterans in the Classroom. They traveled to schools around Indianapolis to speak with and educate students about different conflicts as well as the different branches of military service. He was a lifetime member of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) Fraternity, a Freemason of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, a member of the American Legion and a member of the Hamilton County Civil War Round Table (HCCWRT). He enjoyed playing euchre at the Noblesville Senior Citizens Center and was quick to make a friend at every turn. He was a devoted father and grandfather who will be deeply missed. He is survived by three children: Karen (Scott) Brewer, Bob W. Trimpl and Donna Pittsley, as well as five grandchildren: Derrick Trimpl, Amber Trimpl, Rachel (Jake) Cyran, Ben Pittsley and Ally Pittsley. 

Karin Swanson Rinaldi, 86, of Chicago, Illinois on November 17. Born on September 16, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois, Karin was the daughter of Carl and Vera Swanson. With her sister Linnea, she grew up in the heart of the city where the vibrant energy of Wrigley Field, the charm of Clark Street and the taking of the streetcar to school were the backdrop of her childhood. Karin's love for music emerged at a young age, learning to play piano at age three and performing live on radio by age five, her gift of perfect pitch set the tone for a life deeply rooted in music and creativity. Karin graduated as Salutatorian from Senn High School and went on to attend Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she majored in music education. It was there she met her future husband, Roger Rinaldi, and the two were married on September 12, 1959, beginning a partnership that spanned 59 years with shared passions for music and family. Karin and Roger moved to Seneca after graduation, where they both found teaching positions in the local school district, and their collaboration created a legendary music department. Karin's passion for music education touched the lives of countless students, helping them find their voices in spring concerts and musicals. Her dedication to fostering confidence and creativity in her students made her a cherished teacher and community member. Beyond the classroom, Karin and Roger shared their love of music as performers in their own band, entertaining crowds at weddings, New Year's celebrations, and private events. Karin's role as the band's pianist and lead singer was the heart of their performances, a testament to her talent and connection with her husband. And Roger would agree! Karin was also a gifted accompanist to musicians of all levels, with the rare ability to transpose music to any key instantaneously. She also enjoyed accompanying her children to sing and play instruments, and later her grandchildren, filling the house with the shared love of music. Karin was a dedicated mother, supporting her children's passions, activities and providing structure to keep a large busy family organized. She prepared sit-down meals even for breakfast, sewed outfits for her children and routinely patched holes in their jeans. She fastidiously planned amazing summer road trips, from the National Parks of the West to the historic places along the Eastern Seaboard. With maps, and information gathered from encyclopedias and almanacs, every trip was an adventure. Karin was a seeker of knowledge and a lifelong learner. If she didn't know something, she'd look it up, long before there was Google. After retirement, she took dance classes, ran a marathon at age 50 and regularly attended theatre, opera and symphony concerts in Chicago. To keep her mind sharp, she did the daily crossword and jumble from the Chicago Tribune and watched Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune; practices she continued until her passing. Karin's nurturing manner continued with her grandchildren. She always planned interesting outings, craft activities in the home, and found unique, often educational gifts to suit each child's interests, personality and passion. After Roger passed away, Karin moved back to her hometown Chicago, where she had an apartment that overlooked Lake Michigan. It was full of family photos and her collection of giraffes from around the world. In her last years, she was fortunate to enjoy the newest members of the family, her great grandchildren, who brought her much joy. Weekly family visits to her apartment will always be remembered with the laughter, joy and sometimes chaos of multiple family dogs, a toddler and an infant, together creating a din much like the cacophony of an orchestra warming up before their tuning note. Karin was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Roger. She is survived by her sister Linnea (Frank) Ditchey of New Jersey, 5 children, 6 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren including: Gayle Rinaldi of Chicago and grandchildren Marshall, Madison (Evan Pederson) and Rachel, and great grandchildren Sloane and Reece Pederson; Keith Rinaldi of Chicago; Paul Rinaldi (Alicia) of Richardson, TX and grandchildren Sanora (Triston) Trimble and Isaac; Julie Rinaldi of Denver; and Nancy Williams (Tyrone) of Chicago and granddaughter Maya.

Richard Voss, 86, of Des Moines, Iowa on January 4. Born on May 2, 1938, Richard spent most of his professional life serving as a business administrator at various colleges. He was a proud alumnus of Atlantic High School, Coe College and Columbia University. Richard was a beloved member of the Central Presbyterian Church of Des Moines, where he found a strong community. His passion for woodworking provided him not only with a creative outlet but also with many cherished moments spent crafting beautiful pieces. He leaves behind his wife, Connie Voss; daughter, Tanya, and son-in-law, Anthony Lanuzo; son, Eric Vos; grandson, Michael Lanuzo, and his fiancée, Leila Waid; and grandson, Nicholas Lanuzo. He is also survived by his sister, MaryNelle Greene (Ned Sharp), brother, Carl Voss (Susan), and sister, Saran Robinson (Scott).

1961

Ronald “Ron” Thenhaus, 89, of Temecula, California on August 24. He is survived by his three daughters, Jennifer Vellinga (Tim Vellinga), Tami Vernon (Howard Vernon III), Jill Rosales (Ernie Rosales), nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Ron was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Thenhaus; parents, Louis and Mildred Thenhaus; and his older brother, Duane Thenhaus. Ronald was born on March 3, 1935 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the second son of Louis and Mildred Thenhaus. He was a proud graduate of Franklin High School where he participated in football, basketball and baseball as well as choir. In 1954, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served overseas for one year followed by another two years in the Marine Corps Reserve. During one of his military leaves home, he met the love of his life, Judy Sandler. They were married on March 22, 1957. Ron enrolled at Coe College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and became a certified public accountant. His career took Ron and his family to Omaha, NE; Sioux City, Iowa; Orange City, Iowa; Fort Morgan, CO and back to Cedar Rapids, where he retired. In retirement, Ron found time to work as a field agent for Lifeline Alert Systems. He had a lifelong love of baseball but his passion for most of his adult life was golf. He loved to play golf and watch golf on TV. As an extension of this passion for golf, he dedicated much of his spare time during retirement to building custom golf clubs which he used himself and gave to friends and family.

Charles Miller, 87, of Osprey, Florida on September 30. Charles M. Miller, Born August 6, 1936, passed away September 30, 2023. Charlie was born in Scarsdale, NY, grew up in Milwaukee, WI, and graduated from Coe College with a BS in Finance. He married Mary-Ellen Bogan in 1963. In 1981, he began his own Stock Brokerage firm in Indianapolis, retiring to Osprey, FL in 2000. He leaves behind his wife, two children, Heather and Greg, daughter-in-law, Amy and two grandchildren, Colin and Sophia.

Gail Rosene Turner, 85, of Littleton, Colorado on December 1. She was born May 3, 1939 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Clinton and Muriel (Johnson) Rosene. Gail was a graduate of Arlington Heights High School. She married Robert Turner in August 1961 in Arlington Heights, IL, where they met. A graduate of Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with a degree in medical technology, they later moved to Pennsylvania, California, and then to Colorado where they lived for 50+ years.
She was a great mom, sister, grandma and great grandma. She enjoyed travel, swimming, walking in the neighborhood, tennis, skiing, knitting, yoga and was always up for a game of Five Crowns. She will be dearly missed by all who know her. Gail was preceded in death by her parents (Clinton and Muriel). She is survived by her husband, Robert; her brother, Roger; and her two daughters, Kristine and Kimberly; and six grandchildren, KC, Conner, Kinzie, Jack, Alec and Katherine; and a great grandchild, CJ. Gail asks that in lieu of flowers, please smile at a stranger or brighten someone’s day whenever you can. Gail’s family will be holding a private Celebration of Life Ceremony over Memorial Day Weekend as May is Gail’s birthday month as well as Mother’s Day.

Gail “Gay” Rothgeb Bostock Soltis, 85, of Hopkins, Minnesota on November 6. Gail “Gay” was an author, editor, ghostwriter, certified therapeutic riding instructor, election judge, horsewoman and pickleball player. Mom to Valerie Ann Tracy (grandson Patrick), Michelle Lynn Bostock, James Eldon Bostock, stepdaughter Kerry Soltis (step-granddaughters Sydney Tagliatela and Ryleigh Stockwell). Born to Dorothy and Eldon Rothgeb in Minneapolis on March 2, 1939. Parents have passed, survived by siblings Connie Rothgeb and Craig Rothgeb (Sharon). Also passed, sister Cindy Rothgeb, nephew Brent Rothgeb, husbands James Bostock and Thomas Soltis. Honors include Magna Cum Laude (Coe College). Phi Beta Kappa. Pi Delta Epsilon. This is the edited version of my very good life. 

1962 

Wilma “Leone” Guyer Geary, 94, of Maquoketa, Iowa on September 22. Leone was born on April 8, 1930 to Lee Roy William and Ruth Rosetta (Mohr) Guyer in Maquoketa, Iowa. She attended Elwood Community Schools and graduated in 1948. She was an exceptional high school basketball player averaging almost 30 points per game. She was a life-long fan of high school and college athletics and followed her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews throughout their high school and college careers. Leone's singing voice developed at an early age, and it was said that “she could sing like a bird.” She was often featured in the Maquoketa church and community choirs. Leone loved to sing spirituals and told her family of singing for her college music professor who asked her to perform several times. After high school graduation, Leone attended Iowa State Teachers College (now UNI) and received her Teachers Certificate in 1950. Her first teaching position was in Wyoming, Iowa, where she met her husband, Vincent Edward Geary. They married on June 13, 1952 in Harlan Iowa. Leone was employed by the Marion Independent School District as a first and sixth grade teacher while Vince was employed by the Quaker Oats Company. Leone received her BA from Coe College in 1963 and continued to teach for many years. Leone was an excellent seamstress making her professional clothes, clothes for her children and special occasions outfits. Over the years, she developed a deep interest in metaphysics including astrology, numerology and the power of the mind. In the late 70s she taught classes through the Kirkwood College Evening Adult Continuing Education program and made many friends with those who attended her classes as well as members of Unity Center of Cedar Rapids and the PSI Group. Leone enjoyed attending various SFF retreats with her family in Minnesota, South Dakota and Michigan. Leone was a life-long learner and enjoyed reading. One of her favorite activities was to attend the annual Cedar Rapids Library book sale held in the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. She was an avid genealogist and was very proud to be a member of the DAR. One of her favorite road trips was taking her parents to the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia to visit the home place of the Phillips and Guyer families. She enjoyed visiting the cemeteries in Clinton and Jackson counties and telling family members about the ancestors buried there. Family connections were important to her and was always eager to go to the Mohr, Fleming-Piton and Guyer reunions each summer. She also enjoyed shopping the NE Iowa Art Tour and auctions. Leone is survived by her daughters: Ruth Ellen Geary, Laura Geary Bell (Ted) and Stepson Dennis Geary (Candace); grandchildren: Allison, Meghan, Jason and Devon; and two great-grandsons.

Larry Wandling, 84, of Lawrenceville, Georgia on October 17. Larry is survived by his wife, Phyllis Davis and his daughters, Laurie (Bryan) Livengood and Lisa (Joe) Cooling. Other beloved family members are Phillip and Dawn Black. Six wonderful grandchildren survive him: Josh and Kyle Livengood, Lindsey and Lauren Cooling, Ethan and Holland Black. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Dorothy Wandling and Janet McClymond. Sadly, his 51-year marriage to Vivian Koenig Wandling ended with her untimely death in 2013. Larry later married Phyllis Davis and was warmly accepted into her family. Larry Wandling was born November 28, 1939, the youngest of three children in the marriage of Clarence F. and Caroline A. (Fant) Wandling. He received his primary education in the Marengo schools where he graduated in 1958. On June 3, 1961, he and his high school sweetheart, Vivian K. Koenig, were married in the First Methodist Church, Marengo. After receiving his degree from Coe College, he and Vivian set out on an exciting 22-year adventure in the Air Force. Their two beautiful daughters were born into the military family that found them living in several states and abroad in Germany. He was an aircrew member for 13 years flying bombers, trainers, observation and fighters before serving as a headquarters staff officer. His final assignment was as a deputy base commander in Florida. Larry served in Vietnam as an airborne forward air controller. There he flew over 100 combat missions while earning a Distinguished Flying Cross and numerous Air Medals. His post military career saw him serving as a stockbroker for A.G. Edwards and in administrative positions at Northwest Florida State College. Larry returned to higher education where he earned a master's and another bachelor's degree. He was Summa Cum Laude and inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. Larry developed a keen interest in the American Civil War to the point he opened a rare book business centering on this subject. He, Vivian and later, Phyllis, participated in nearly 200 Civil War and book fairs across the U.S. He was a member of the prestigious Atlanta Civil War Roundtable and both the Florida and Georgia Antiquarian Booksellers Associations. He was also a member of the Wandling-Wendall American Legion Post 76 for over 30 years. Nothing was more important to Larry than the wellbeing of his family and getting to spend time with them. They were a special blessing to him. The friendship of his extended family developed during 25 years of Civil War activities was also dear. He will be missed by all who knew him.

1963 

John Tone, 84, of Center Point, Iowa on September 14. He was born on September 25th, 1939 in Iowa City and lovingly raised by Dr. Bernard and Marie Tone of Cedar Rapids. John attended Franklin High School and Coe College. He married his wife, Sharon, in 1966. Throughout their 57 years together, John and Sharon lived in the Cedar Rapids area. John will be best remembered as a competitive outdoor enthusiast. There is no doubt that fish and wildfowl all over Eastern Iowa will breathe a sigh of relief this fall. Humorous tales of John Tone’s ice fishing inventions, roadside pheasant hunting antics and North Woods fishing expeditions will be told for generations. In addition to fishing and hunting, John enjoyed painting, carving, woodworking and inventing. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Tone; his daughter, Susan Tone, and her husband, James Bardin, and their children, Sarah, Anna, and James; his daughter, Sherry Madson, and her husband, Steve Madson, and their children, Smith and Kate; his son, Wolfe Tone, and his wife, Laura Lee Garner Tone, and their children, Rowan and Wolfe. His death was preceded by his sister, Judy Steffes.

1965 

John Carlson, 82, of Des Moines, Iowa on August 25. John was born on December 11, 1941 in Danville, Illinois to Bror and Lucille Carlson. He spent his early years in Cairo, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa. He graduated from Coe College in 1965, where he met his wife, Carol Van Auken. They married on September 7, 1963 and shared nearly 61 wonderful years together. John later earned a master's degree from the University of Iowa. John and Carol were blessed with two children, Carrie (Cameron) Fuller and Erik (Erin) Carlson, who, along with their families, brought great joy to John's life. He is survived by his wife, Carol, his children, and his cherished grandchildren: Chase (Whitney) Fuller, Cailyn (Hayden) Shelton, Logan (fiancée Grace Meter) Carlson, Caleb Carlson, and Jonah Carlson. Beyond his love for his family, John was passionate about many things, including his active involvement with Toastmasters International and his enthusiasm for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He had a deep appreciation for music, enjoyed attending concerts and found joy in his pets. John's hobbies were varied and included reading, running and gardening. He was also a devoted congregant and contributed significantly to both New London Christian Church and Community Christian Church in Muscatine, Iowa.

Colonel Jeffrey “Jeff” Harrington, 81, of New York City, New York on October 13. Born on October 13, 1943 in Davenport, Iowa to Mary and Merle Harrington, Jeff lived a life marked by dedication, honor and a commitment to his family, country and community. Jeff's journey began in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he attended Coe College from 1961 to 1965. Following his graduation, he decided to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force through Coe's ROTC program. His distinguished military career included key roles at the Pentagon, Tactical Air Command and Strategic Air Command where he earned the admiration and respect of all who served alongside him. His wisdom, leadership and humility were hallmarks of his 30-year career, culminating in his retirement as a full colonel and Deputy Director of Strategic Air Command in 1993. After the military, Jeff embarked on a second successful career, serving as Vice President of Human Resources for Central States Indemnity in Omaha, Nebraska. Jeff has been married to his wife Carolyn since 1987. Together, they shared nearly four decades of love and deep friendship. From San Antonio, Texas and Papillion, Nebraska, to the bustling heart of Manhattan, New York, they created cherished memories and lifelong bonds with friends across the country. Jeff's enthusiasm for history and knowledge led him to volunteer at the Museum of the American Indian, where he shared his expertise and love for learning. Jeff had a lifelong passion for golf and tennis, and he especially loved playing with friends and family, sharing the game with the people who meant the most to him. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Fred McMullen; his father, Merle Harrington; and his first wife, Gerry Harrington. He leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of his family, including his brothers Mark (Nancy) McMullen and Scott (Melissa) McMullen, with whom he shared a bond of friendship, support and cherished memories. He is also survived by his devoted children: Patrick (Beth) Harrington, Tim (Dawn) Harrington and Casey (John) Winstead, as well as his beloved stepsons, Tony (Tara) DiPippa and PJ (Javier) DiPippa. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Amber (Reilly), Jake (Rachel), Emma, Ivy, Olivia and Andrew, each of whom brought joy to his life, as well as his five nephews. Jeff will be deeply missed by all. Jeff was, above all, a man of immense kindness and love-a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. His quiet strength and thoughtful presence will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he has left this world, his spirit will remain with us, guiding us and reminding us to cherish each day. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always with warmth and gratitude.

Susan Nelson Dietz, 81, of Knoxville, Tennessee on October 26. She was born in Worthington, Ohio on April 18, 1943, grew up in Park Ridge, Illinois, and earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. After teaching school for a couple of years, she focused her love and energy on being a devoted and loving wife and mother and volunteering her time and energy to countless organizations. Susan was of the Methodist faith and an active parishioner of Concord United Methodist Church for 35 years, where she participated in the Women's Circle, sang in the choir, enjoyed her Sunday School class, the Searchers, and volunteered faithfully with CADES Adult Day Services, for which she received the Tennessee Caring Hearts Award for her dedication and service. Susan was an active member of the PEO sisterhood, a philanthropic women's organization and the Kappa Delta Alumni Organization. Her hobbies also included traveling, water aerobics, her monthly book club, baking and spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Maurice & Mabel Nelson; her in-laws, Clarence & Ada Dietz; and her sister-in-law, Cathy Dietz. Susan leaves behind to cherish her memory: husband, Jerry Dietz, whom she was married to for 59 years; son, Steven Dietz; daughter, Lisa Dietz Rives (Todd); sister, Liz Reinecke (Fred); brother-in-law, Dennis Dietz; grandchildren, Lincoln & Emilie Murr; step-grandchildren, Dale & Raley Rives; her nieces and nephews: Susan Reinecke, Scott (Karen) Reinecke, Ryan Dietz, and Laura (Juan) Jones; and countless friends. The family would like to express gratitude to Concord United Methodist Church, the PEO sisterhood, Angels Around the Block, and Covenant Hospice Services for all the kindness and support they received during her illness.

Linda “Lyn” Ward, 81, of Chicago, Illinois on December 27. Lyn was born Linda Joyce Robertson. After the tragic death of her father, Clarence Robertson, she was raised by her late parents, Mildred Ward, and her adoptive father, A. D. Ward. She is survived by her blended family: Patricia (Dan) Veller, Paula (Garry) Rossino, Denise Ward, James (Barb Flowers) Ward, Linda Osmundson, and stepdaughters Ariana (Robert Dickau) Nikitas and Margot (Antonio Lodico) Nikitas. She was also blessed with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She leaves behind a great many friends in Plymouth who all benefited from her magnanimous friendship and love and whom she deeply loved. We are grateful for the members of the four musketeers: Bridget Potter, Kim Lawrence and Shelley Moore who, with Lyn, became her Plymouth family. In addition to her parents, Lyn was predeceased by her husband, Jerry Nikitas; her brother, Allen Dee Ward; and her brother-in-law, Robert Osmundson, as well as many aunts and uncles. Lyn spent more than fifty years of her life in Chicago and moved to Plymouth with her husband, Jerry, in the late 90s. She became a fixture in and around Plymouth, amassing a large number of friends and acquaintances. She dedicated her life to volunteering in the many community service organizations in Plymouth and Marshall County, and to St. Thomas Episcopal Church where she regularly attended services. Blessed with a beautiful alto voice, she loved to sing in the church choir. Lyn was a host member of the Kiwanis Club, an executive assistant at the United Way, lent her time and energy to the planning committee for the restoration of the Rees Theater, volunteered for the Heartland Art Center, served tacos for many summers in Chicago to raise money for the Misericordia Home for Mercy, worked tirelessly for the Democratic Party and the Marshall County Humane Society, dedicated hours of her time to help people register to vote, drove voters to the polls on election day and volunteered in other ways too numerous to mention. After receiving her degree from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Lyn became a dedicated and passionate teacher in Chicago, Illinois, where she taught students in grades four through eight during the school year at Lawrence Upper Grade Center, Disney Magnet School and Hawthorne Scholastic Academy. Over the summer she taught preschoolers in the Head Start program. Lyn was a voracious reader as well as a gifted writer in her own right. She wrote a column for the Pilot News, and she was a member of as many as four book clubs at a time. She was a fixture at the local library so often she could have simply set up a cot. There was hardly a time when she wasn’t in the beginning, middle or end of more than one book and as a result, she was incredibly knowledgeable about many subjects and smart as a whip. She worked toward her doctorate in education by completing all of the work required with the single exception of that nasty requirement to produce a dissertation. She was too busy teaching, reading and volunteering. Despite the time dedicated to her many other pursuits, Lyn took time to travel, ski, sail and take flying lessons. She traveled with friends to Europe and around the United States and its territories. A number of trips were taken with a close group of friends known collectively as the “Milwaukee Five.” She was a member of the ski patrol (yes, there are ski hills around Illinois and Wisconsin!) and a member of a yacht club in Chicago with whom she regularly crewed on sailboats in Lake Michigan. She also took flying lessons for a time but fell short of earning a pilot’s license. She was too busy teaching, reading, volunteering, crewing and skiing. Lyn will be remembered most for her caring nature, her crisp one-liners, her dedication to service and to her church. Plymouth may have been the best thing that happened to her. She loved everyone and everything in Plymouth without condition, earned her place in everyone’s hearts and left her many friends and family members with cherished memories of a selfless life in the place she loved.

1967 

Jane “Janice” Conkey, 79, of Falls Church, Virginia, on September 20. Jane was born on June 25, 1945 to Albert and Alice Conkey and throughout her life her exuberant spirit touched everyone she met. Jane was a beacon of compassion, feistiness, forgiveness and she held a deep-rooted commitment to her family. Her vibrant character and unwavering strength were the pillars that held our family together. She taught us to always be kind and to stand as advocates for ourselves and others. Jane lived her teachings, epitomizing kindness and advocacy in every facet of her life. Known for her zest for sports, Jane was an avid fan of her Washington football and baseball teams, often heard cheering down the street. She also had a tremendous love for her dogs, treating them not as pets, but as cherished companions. Her passion for these pastimes brought joy and fellowship to our family and community. Jane is survived by her children: Nathaniel Conkey, Emily Pickens and Rachel Conkey, all of whom reflect the values instilled in them by their loving mother. Her ultimate legacy, however, will be the following generation — eleven grandchildren, all of whom she helped care for at different times. In them, her love for life, family and community will live on. As we mourn the loss of our dear Jane, we also celebrate the wonderful life that she led. Although she may be gone from our sight, her love, wisdom and spirit will continue to guide us forever.

Mary Wilson Rodman, 92, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota on November 24. Mary was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on July 9, 1932 to Virgil and Edna (Ragan) Wilson. Her family lived in Lisbon, Iowa, later moving to Toledo, Iowa. She completed her high school education in Cedar Rapids, Iowa at Mount Mercy Academy, graduating in 1950. She continued her higher education at Mt. Mercy Teacher's College in Cedar Rapids, earning her Teacher's Certificate in the spring of 1952. The following fall she began her career in Viola, Iowa teaching third grade. Mary was united in marriage with Lyle Rodman on January 2, 1955 at the Springville Presbyterian Church in Springville, Iowa, where they made their home. To this union, two children were born. Following their marriage, Mary continued to teach school at College Community in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, eventually becoming a teacher in the Springville Community School system where she taught upper elementary grades for over 30 years. She loved her career as a teacher and took great pride in her responsibility of educating and shaping the lives of her students. Mary continued her education at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She received a bachelor's degree in history while continuing to teach school and take care of her family. She completed her degree by attending night and summer classes. In her spare time, she and Lyle enjoyed taking part in Springville school and community activities and were active members of the Springville Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed traveling, camping, growing beautiful flowers in the summer and taking care of the family dogs. Upon retirement from teaching, Mary and Lyle moved to Decorah, Iowa. They enjoyed many years of traveling and spending time with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They made many new friends in Decorah. Mary especially loved her "Aerobic Coffee Group." She and Lyle volunteered at Luther College, the Decorah hospital, the Chamber of Commerce and a variety of other community organizations. In her later years, her most valued time was spent with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. In May of 2014, Mary moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She lived at Good Samaritan Prairie Creek Independent Living and later moved to Legends at Lake Lorraine Assisted Living. Mary is survived and lovingly remembered by her children, Jeff (Linda) Rodman and Jane (Keith) Petersen; grandchildren Ben Rodman and Jon Rodman, Hannah (Drew) Eanes and Chris (Tera) Petersen; and four great-grandchildren, Evie and Ty Eanes, and Case and Cal Petersen; one brother, Bill (Kathy) Wilson; a brother-in-law, Gary Woods; and sister-in-law, Donna Wilson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle Rodman; her parents, Virgil and Edna Wilson; her in-laws, Alva and Monica Rodman; son-in-law, Garth Petersen; sister, Lois Woods; and brother, Bolton Wilson.

Larry Martwig, 79, of Del Rio, Texas on January 7. Larry was born in Paris, Arkansas and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he graduated from George Washington High School and Coe College. While he was in high school, he found his love for flying as a member of the Civil Air Patrol. Larry served 14 years as a pilot in the United States Air Force and was a Vietnam war veteran assigned to the 459th Tactical Airlift Squadron. His last duty station in the Air Force was here in Del Rio as an instructor pilot. Larry took great pride in teaching the next generation of pilots. After many years as a civilian, he returned to his teaching role as a simulator instructor at Laughlin AFB. Larry loved this community. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and of the Del Rio Lions Club, serving as past president from 2015-2016. He was also proud to serve as past president of the Del Rio chapter of the Texas Air Force Association. Preceding him in death were his parents, Ruth and Arthur Martwig; and brother, Jerry Martwig. His surviving family includes his wife of 57 years, Marva A. Martwig of Del Rio; son Jason Martwig; daughter, Sara Tweedie, and son-in-law, Steve Tweedie. Larry is "Papa" to two grandchildren, Sean and Mariel Tweedie. Larry is also survived by his nephew, Brent Martwig.

1968 

Robert “Jerry” Cowan, 81, of Nicholasville, Kentucky on December 2. Jerry was born August 8, 1942 in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Samuel Robert Cowan and Nellie Maude (Shafer) Cowan. He married the love of his life, his special wife, Elizabeth Ann Prestsater, on May 27, 1962 and they enjoyed 51 years together until her passing in 2013. Jerry worked at Link-Belt Construction Equipment in several purchasing roles for 33 years in three locations: Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Bowling Green, Kentucky and Lexington, Kentucky. So many work peers became friends and work friends became like family. Until his illness, Jerry was an active member at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lexington, Kentucky and recently served as Church Treasurer. His church family was close to his heart and he loved the early service. He was excited to be a working part of the recent church construction project. For most of his life, Jerry was an avid golfer. He especially enjoyed the regular rounds and good-natured fun with the “golf guys” weekly. When the day wound down, he also loved crossword puzzles and country music. The most important, though, was his family. Jerry is survived by his loving children, Greg (Paula) Cowan and David Cowan; five grandchildren, Katie (Grant) Burdette, Joseph Cowan, Connor Cowan, Zachary Cowan, and Samanatha Cowan, and one great-grandson, Lincoln Burdette. He is also survived by his brother John (Janice) Cowan, and his sister Jan Cowan (Rick), and a special niece, Danielle Cowan.

1970 

Craig Gingrich, 76, of Cedar Falls, Iowa on September 2. He graduated from Vinton High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Coe College, and completed his Master of Educational Administration from the University of Northern Iowa. Craig married Deborah Taylor on June 6, 1970, in Dysart, and they enjoyed 54 years together. Craig was a high school teacher and coach from 1970-2005. He began his teaching career in Schleswig, but the bulk of his career was spent at Union High School in La Porte City. He became certified as a paramedic in 1982 and spent many years supplementing his teaching career working on the Covenant ambulance service and volunteering on the Dysart ambulance service. After retiring from Union High School in 2005 he became a full-time paramedic. He fully retired in 2014 but continued to serve the Cedar Valley by substitute teaching. Craig was an active member of the Dysart United Methodist Church for many years while he and Deb raised their four sons in the Dysart community. In 2000, Craig & Deb relocated to a large acreage on the Cedar River in Cedar Falls. They have always enjoyed the church families they’ve adopted along the way, but most recently they’ve found a wonderful church home at Candeo in Cedar Falls. The majority of Craig’s time and resources over the last decade have been focused on doting over his ten grandchildren and toiling around his 80-acre property. Craig was also an active member of the Blackhawk County Republican Party. Craig is survived by his wife of 54 years, Deborah; four sons and ten grandchildren: Kimble (Kyla) and their son, Gavin (Autumn); Trevor (Deanna) and their children: Annika, Riley, and Sydney; Garrett (Angie) and their daughters, Lia and Ali; and Taylor (Sarah) and their children: Hannah, Isaac, Hazel and Warner. He is also survived by two brothers: Kyle (Missy) Gingrich of Marion and Bart (Kim) Gingrich; a brother-in-law, Kendall (Marcia) Taylor; a sister-in-law, Roxe Anne Gingrich; an aunt, Sharon Turner; a special cousin Jim (Kathy) Gingrich; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved brother, Lynn Gingrich.

Nylene Potter Awbrey, 97, of Orlando, Florida on November 18. Nylene was born in Central City, Iowa on September 21, 1927. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl and Jesse Potter; her brother, Willard Potter; her loving husband, John Awbrey; and son Greg Awbrey. Nylene is survived by two sons: Dr. Brian Awbrey (Cynthia) and Mark Awbrey (Christine); and one daughter, Lisa Ralph (Douglas). Nylene had nine grandchildren: Michael, Tiffany, Matthew, Nathan, Joshua, Jaymes, Julia, Claire and Louis; including four loving great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Jackson, Sidney and Harrison. Nylene was a loving mother, wife, grandmother and great-grandmother. Nylene graduated from Coe College as a nurse RN and received her graduate degree from the University of Iowa. She retired as a school nurse from the Cedar Rapids Public schools and moved to Haines City, Florida and was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Lake Alfred, Florida.

Douglas “Bob” Lindstrom, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois on December 25. He was born February 15, 1948, in Galesburg, the son of Dean R. and Anne (Stambaugh) Lindstrom, Sr. Bob graduated from Galesburg High School, lettering in basketball and baseball. He was proudly part of the basketball Team of 1966 that placed second in state and later was inducted into the Galesburg Athletic Hall of Fame. Bob loved a good story and would often tell the tale of a specific game against Rock Island in 1966 where Dale Kelley scored over 48 points. As Bob was called in to replace Dale, Dale received a standing ovation, while Bob mistakenly thought the cheers were for him. He continued his education at Coe College, completing his Bachelor of Arts in 1971. He attended the University of Iowa Graduate Business School and earned his Juris Doctorate from Drake University in 1975. Bob settled in Galesburg, marrying Priscilla Eichhorn on June 28, 1980 and began a family of his own. His wife, Priscilla, survives after 44 years of marriage. As do his children, Douglas R. (Ashley) Lindstrom, Jr. and Mary Ellen (Ryan) Rankin; his brother, Richard "Dick" (Carol) Lindstrom; three grandchildren, Drake Robert Lindstrom, Dean Axel Rankin and Noa Jules Rankin; his sister-in-law, Barbara (Mel) Eichhorn-Koffman; brother-in-law, Tom (Sara) Eichhorn; four nieces, three nephews and several great nieces and nephews. Bob is preceded in death by his parents and his son Scott M. Lindstrom on May 16, 2010. Bob worked for several law firms in the Galesburg area, including West, Neagle and Williamson from 1979-1989; Mustain, Lindstrom and Henson from 1989-2008; Robert Lindstrom Law from 2008-2019; and most recently, Barash and Everett. His practice included commercial litigation, bankruptcy, banking law, real estate and corporate law. Bob was admitted to the Illinois and Iowa Bar in 1975, and Florida Bar in 1976, the United States District Court, Central District of Illinois in 1979, United States Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit in 1986, and the United States District Court Northern District of Illinois in 2000. Bob was a member of the Knox County, Illinois, Iowa and Florida Bar Associations, the American Bankruptcy Institute, and served as a trust officer for the First Galesburg National Bank & Trust Company from 1975-1979 and was a Peer Selected Leading Lawyer in 2024. Bob was also very engaged in his local community. He was a special assistant to the Attorney General from 1981-1982 and a member of the Illinois Savings and Loan Board from 1984-1990. He served as a trustee for both the Cottage Health Care Systems (1988-1991) and Cottage Health Care Foundation (1991-2004). He was the director for the Galesburg Regional Economic Development Association from 1995-2005 and was a member of the Knox County Republicans. He served as Master of Ceremonies once when Ronald Reagan was at Knox College and again for George Bush when he visited Galesburg. Bob was proud to be a Rotarian joining the Galesburg Rotary Club in 1976, serving as President from 1990-1991 and receiving the Paul Harris Fellow Award and the Vern W. Dowers Exemplary Service Award. He also was a 20-year member of and served several terms as president for the Galesburg Community Unit School District Board of Education. Bob also volunteered his time as a basketball coach at the Knox County YMCA. He had been a member of Soangetaha Country Club and served as their president in 2017. Bob was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church, also serving as an elder, trustee and a deacon of the church.

1971 

Robert “Bob” Schroder, 76, of Naperville, Illinois on December 27. He was born on November 13, 1948 in Lincoln, Nebraska to Keith E. Schroder and Helen D (nee Grieve). Loving husband of Nancy L. (nee Rogers), who he married on December 21, 1968 at St. John's United Church of Christ in Naperville, Illinois. Dear father of Lisa Pittman, Brian (Jessica) Schroder, and Jamie (Paul) Parks. Adored grandfather of Danielle Pittman, Jacob Hatley, Mason Schroder, Cody Schroder, Casey Pittman, Madeline Parks and Preston Parks. Great-grandfather of Aria Hatley and Olivia Hatley. Bob also leaves behind many close friends and extended family members. Bob grew up in Naperville and attended Naperville Community High School, class of 1966. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. After school Bob went to work for the Internal Revenue Service as a Revenue Agent. He retired in 2015 having worked for 41 years and 11 months for the IRS. Bob lived in Naperville for most of his life. He liked to run and completed a marathon at the age of 47, ride his bike and play softball. Bob always maintained a spectacular garden and was especially good at growing flowers. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife, one of his favorite destinations was Arizona. Bob loved to tell a story or joke, often multiple times, and enjoyed making everyone laugh. Most of all Bob loved spending time with his family, he loved them more than anything else. His loss will be felt by all those who knew him.

1973 

Theresa Dickson Pirog, 73, of Des Moines, Iowa on November 5. She was born on October 29th, 1951 in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, the daughter of Kenneth Charles Dickson and Marylee Burrows. Terri received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Speech from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and then moved to Colorado to teach high school English in Colorado Springs. There she met Louis Richard “Rick” Pirog Jr., fell in love, and moved to Vail. They were married at the Vail Chapel on October 14, 1978, and had two children, Todd and Jackie who grew up in the Vail Valley. She and Rick were married for 38 years, during which time, she worked at iconic Vail retail locations like Cogswell Gallery, Designer Furs, Cosbar and the Golden Bear. She was a devoted and proud mother, very passionate about animals, loved to play golf and ski and was an avid football fan. She felt right at home in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Terri moved to Des Moines last year to be closer to her brother and sister, finding a lovely place to call home in the final year of her life. If you knew Terri well, you know that she sometimes struggled. But she had a generous, beautiful heart, a strong will, a nurturing and caring spirit, a wonderful sense of humor, was an amazing cook and would always correct your grammar. She is survived by her two children, Richard Todd Pirog (wife Jenn) and Jacqueline Nicole McIntyre (husband John); and her brother, Kim Dickson (wife Jeanne). She is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Deborah Silverstein, who passed away less than one month prior. When we think about the place she now resides...there is Sunshine on her Shoulders, there is peace, her precious dogs Harley, Hunter and Benji are there with her, and all is well...at last.

1974 

Deborah Engel Hoopes, 73, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 14. Deborah passed away after a long journey with pancreatic cancer. A native Chicagoan, Debbie was born to Harry and Ione Engel on March 4, 1951 — her parents' own 10th wedding anniversary. After completing nursing school, Debbie moved to Cedar Rapids in 1973 to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing at Coe College. She held many nursing positions over the years at both Mercy and St. Luke's hospitals, in addition to serving as the campus nurse at Coe in the early 1980's, and taught nursing at Mt. Mercy College. Debbie spent more than 20 years with Principal Financial Group in utilization review and retired in 2017 from United Fire Group. One of her proudest accomplishments was as an entrepreneur — she had a small business in the 1980's named Strictly Chocolate that included hand-cut, small batch brownies and cookies and chocolate mints licensed with the University of Iowa Hawkeye logo. In addition to selling her most popular macadamia nut brownies and mints with her family at Iowa football games, Debbie also sold brownies at a food cart in the Coventry Gardens Mall on the weekends. Long after the business closed, she still baked special orders and holiday gifts for friends and her own physicians. Debbie was known to all as a giver. She constantly thought of others before herself and enjoyed spending time with friends — taking short road trips to antique shops, exploring local restaurants in small towns and hosting a 4th of July brunch each year. She loved the fall season the most and decorating her home for the holidays. Family, above all, was always her priority. She was remarkably strong and fiercely independent to all who knew her, even during her treatment and setbacks, and never missed friends' birthdays or opportunities to do things for others and stay socially active. Debbie is survived by her daughter, Sara Hoopes; brothers: Vincent Engel (Fred) and Joel Engel (Cindy); sister, Marilyn Mellin (Howard); and many beloved nieces and nephews. She is also survived by Sara's dog, Harper, who was intuitively and loyally by her side throughout her diagnosis and treatment.

1975 

Reverend Robert “Rob” Matheus, 71, of Columbus, Ohio on September 9. Born on March 11, 1953 in Pueblo, Colorado. Rob was a beacon of kindness and a spiritual guide to many. Rob's education journey began at Mt. Pleasant High School in Iowa, graduating in 1971. He furthered his studies at Coe College, obtaining a degree in philosophy and psychology. His academic path continued at Seabury Western Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois, where he earned his Master of Divinity, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather to become an Episcopal priest. Over the years, Rob lovingly served parishes in Iowa, Ohio and Kentucky, with his final service at St. Alban's in Bexley, Ohio. His deep compassion and wisdom made him a beloved figure in his community. Outside his ministerial duties, Rob had a passion for cars but was particularly proud of his electric Cadillac Lyriq. His musical tastes ranged from the 60s to the 90s, with a special fondness for cool jazz. Rob showed his love for animals every year in The Village Roots Granville by blessing the animals. He enjoyed watching the latest new series on Netflix and he and Donna seldom missed an episode of Jeopardy during dinner hour. Rob is survived by his wife, Donna; his brother, Rich Matheus and his wife, Lori; brother, Randy Matheus and his wife Jan; nieces: Allison Matheus and Kayla Matheus; great-niece, Reiley Rhoades; extended family member, Dave Patten; and his special lifelong friend, Pierce Klemmt. He was preceded in death by his sister Bonnie Jean Matheus and his parents, Charlotte and Bob Matheus.

Margaret “Meg” Shanahan Overreuter, 71, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 5. Meg is survived by her three children: Kevin Oberreuter, John Oberreuter and Sheila Oberreuter; siblings: Monica (Stephen) Maurer, Ed Shanahan, Raymond Shanahan and David (Pearl) Shanahan; and nineteen nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Ellen Meehan Shanahan; in-laws, Francis and Theresa Oberreuter; and niece and goddaughter, Karen Maurer Brown. Meg was born on April 17, 1953 in Maquoketa, the daughter of Donald and Ellen Meehan Shanahan. She graduated in 1971 from Maquoketa High School and received her BSN from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in 1974. Meg married Dennis Oberreuter in 1975, and three children were born from their union. Meg was a labor and delivery nurse for St. Luke’s Hospital and later worked at Linn County Public Health. She was a long-time member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and a current member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. Meg was actively involved in her St. Patrick's Parish community and could be found volunteering in various parish activities ranging from senior bingo, baking and working for various parish events. Meg was a fierce advocate for persons with disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum. She served in many leadership roles in local and state levels to promote awareness and needs to members of the autism community. She shared information freely and was a mentor and friend to many. Meg was relentless in her desire to make life better for families affected by autism. She possessed a gift of gab and was also an exceptionally skilled seamstress. Meg was a wonderful baker, known for her delicious fudge, peanut clusters, brownies and peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, which had all gained legendary status. Above all, Meg was a loving and devoted mother who cherished spending time with her family.

1984 

Bruce Ralston, 64, of Natchitoches, Louisiana on August 14. Bruce was born on November 09, 1959 in West Union, Iowa to Robert John Ralston and Lona Russell Ralston. He graduated from West Union High School and later graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Bruce was proud to serve as a Sergeant in the 256th CAV in the Louisiana National Guard during Desert Storm. Bruce also owned and operated Ralston Exterminating Company, which was founded in 2008. In his spare time, Bruce enjoyed boating and fishing on Sibley Lake. He loved the outdoors and could spend hours exploring nearby woods and wildlife. Bruce spent hours in his garden and loved riding his scooter on back roads and trails. Bruce is survived by his wife, Debbie Vercher Ralston; his son, Tyler Russell Ralston (Brooke); and new granddaughter, Blakely Raye, born August 8, 2024. He is also survived by his mother, Lona Russell Ralston; sister, Lynn Ralston Colberg (Kent); brothers: Robert (Bob) John Ralston, Jr. (Mary) and David Glen Ralston (Carolee); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Robert John Ralston, Sr.; his father-in-law, Nicholas Lynn Vercher, Jr.; his mother-in-law, Billie Grayson Vercher; his paternal grandparents, Glen Raymond Ralston and Zella Fairchild Ralston; and his maternal grandparents, Floyd Ralph Russell and Viola Oakes Russell. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Ronnie Vercher, Kent Colberg, Ryan Owens, Ward Morgan, Scott Sesker, Hugh Smith, Kevin Warner and A. J. Leach. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Flack, Jim Bryant, Max Morgan, Drew Harlow, Larry Broadwater, Tommy Vercher, Donnie Vercher and John Vercher.

1985 

Constance “Connie” Hauser O’Brien, 84, of Manchester, Iowa on August 23. She was born July 25, 1940 in Omaha, Nebraska, the daughter of Edward W. and Anna Marie (Rea) Ossenkop. Connie attended and graduated high school in Estherville, Iowa. She received a bachelor’s degree, graduating from Coe, Kirkwood and the University of Iowa. Connie was united in marriage to Charles Hauser. Three children were born to this union. They later divorced. Connie worked as a medical technician in the area. She enjoyed traveling and being an Iowa Hawkeye fan. Connie loved playing bridge, gardening and cooking, and most of all spending time with her family. Survivors include her four children: Sean (Debra) Hauser, Chad (Mindy) Hauser, Sara (John) Giguere and Mark (Linda) Keane; seven grandchildren: Kara (Ben) Ogden, Ryan (Ellen) Hauser, Gabby (Zachary) Ashcroft, Ava Hauser, Cash Hauser; four great-grandchildren: Oliver, Haddie Mae, Jace, and Lane; two sisters: Sheila Barrett and Margaret (Mike) Kemp; brother, Tom (Diane) Ossenkop; and several nieces and nephews. Connie was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, James Ossenkop; two nephews: Patrick Ossenkop and Chris Manders; and niece, Lauren Ossenkop.

1987 

Keith Griem, 88, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on October 22. He was born on June 12, 1936 to Edwin Griem and Margaret (Hansen) Griem in Clarence, Iowa. He married Neva Kathryn Mess on June 4, 1961. Keith and Neva had two children, Tracy (David) Huk and Timothy (Sheila) Griem. Additionally, Keith is survived by his grandchildren: Zachary (Erica), Brian and Adam, his great-grandchildren Walter and Eleanor and numerous cousins. Keith was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ.

1989 

Michael Moellers, 72, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on December 15. Survivors include his wife, Linda Kay Moellers; son, John (Alexandria) Moellers; grandsons, Wyatt Moellers and Milo Moellers; brother, Patrick Moellers. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Catherine Moellers, brother, Joseph Moellers and grandpuppy, Curly. Michael Henry Moellers was born November 20, 1952 in Algona, Iowa, the son of Clarence and Catherine (Hanney) Moellers. Michael served in the US Air Force and on October 7, 1978, he married Linda Kay Hunt at Strawberry Point, Iowa. He worked as a graphic artist and then as a Tool Crib Mechanic at the Amana/Whirlpool Corp. for many years until retiring in 2017. Michael’s favorite phrase was “I never grew up.” He took that to heart when he visited his grandchildren and would get on the ground into the world of make believe. Michael was a prankster seeking to brighten anyone’s day he met and also tell his corny dad jokes. His hearty laughter and undeniable love of his family was apparent to anyone who cherished him. Michael wore many hats over the years but he valued being a father, husband, and grandfather above all. Michael never wasted a moment to tell his son, daughter-in-law, wife, and grandchildren how precious they were to him. Michael leaves an undeniable mark in the way his son cares for his children and the way his wife seeks to brighten anyone’s day. Michael’s example is one of light, love, forgiveness and devotion. We are all blessed to know him and remember him as an intelligent, loving and caring man. We will always love Michael and the joy he brought us. We go through the pain together hand in hand and cry as one voice. We carry on because Michael would want us to and to shine a light for others. Goodbye to our blessed father, grandfather, brother and dear friend. You are truly missed and will never be forgotten.

Carl Bloom, 57, of Gresham, Oregon on January 2. Carl passed away as the result of a brain tumor. Per Carl’s wishes, his brain will be donated for medical research and his body cremated. Carl was born August 13, 1967 at Graham Hospital in Keokuk, Iowa to George N. and Barbara A. Bloom. Carl’s grandparents were Leonard “Bud” and Bette Bloom of Keokuk and Harold and Alta Bangert of Montrose. Carl graduated from Central Lee High School in 1985. In 1989, he graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Later, he graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a master’s degree in English. At the University of Southern Illinois in Carbondale, he earned a doctorate degree in English and taught there. Carl wrote many educational papers and published one book. In March of 1998 in St. Helen, Oregon, Carl married Hafiza Nilofar "Nel" Khan. Carl enjoyed painting, drawing, writing, magic cards, Dungeons and Dragons, concerts and debating. Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Nel of Dhaka, Bangladesh; one daughter, Alisha Bloom; his parents, Barbara Bloom and George N. (Lori) Bloom; two sisters, Christy Bloom, and Rebecca Angell; niece, Megan Sullivan; nephews, Maxwell Sullivan and Marley Young; many cousins, aunts and uncles; and his mother-in-law, Mrs. Wali Khan. From his colleagues at the Independent University in Bangladesh: "Dr. Bloom was not just a dedicated faculty member in his role as an assistant professor at DEML, IUB, but was also a source of positivity, kindness and support to everyone he encountered. He made an indelible mark on countless lives, both professionally and personally. His genuine compassion and warm spirit will be sorely missed but forever remembered. May he rest in eternal peace.

1991 

Linda Kabela Noll, 69, of Lisbon, Iowa on October 11. Linda was born on December 20, 1954 in Iowa City, Iowa to Frank and Darlene (Mougin) Kabela. She was raised on a farm near West Branch, Iowa, where she graduated high school in 1973. She then attended the University of Northern Iowa, where she graduated with a degree in food and nutrition in business and a minor in accounting. She later received her accounting degree from Coe College. Linda met Steve at UNI and described it as “an instant connection.” They were married on November 25, 1977, in Mount Vernon. She and Steve settled in Lisbon where together they raised a family. In Linda’s eyes, Steve was “the best thing that has ever happened in my life.” Linda worked for Skogman Realty in the accounting department for 27 years until her retirement in 2019. Prior to that, she worked as a bookkeeper for the Ben Franklin Store in Mount Vernon. Linda was a dedicated and involved member of the Lisbon and Mount Vernon communities. She and Steve were active members of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for 47 years, where she volunteered in many capacities over the decades, including several years on the Social Justice Committee. She served in a number of local organizations, including Lisbon Community School District Foundation and the Highway 30 Bypass Committee. She co-led a local Camp Fire Girls & Boys group for her daughters. At work she organized the United Way workplace giving campaign each year. During retirement she returned to her hometown in West Branch to volunteer at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library. One of Linda’s greatest sources of enjoyment was watching her kids and grandkids during their many athletic and artistic activities and performances. Linda was a passionate booster of the University of Northern Iowa Panther athletics. Linda also thoroughly loved to travel, learn about history, explore new places and collect magnets for her refrigerator collection. She was a self-described “foodie” and enjoyed looking through a new cookbook and trying new recipes. She was famous for her pie crust, especially her two favorites: rhubarb pie in the spring and sour cherry pie in the summer. And in the autumn, she would never say no to a pumpkin pie blizzard from Dairy Queen. Linda is survived by her husband, Steve; her children, Scott (Maggie) Noll, Stephanie (Anna Ghublikian) Noll, and Sara (Eric) Dye; grandchildren: Katie, Josh and Marcus Noll and Jameson and Oliver Dye; siblings, David (Joan) Kablea, Lois (Mike) Coates, Steve (Darcy) Kabela, and Barb Ditzler; siblings-in-law, Russ (Kathy) Noll, Ron (Diane DVM) Noll, Chris (Brenda) Noll, and CAPT Daniel (Kamar), SC, USN (ret) Noll; and several nieces and nephews. Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Darlene Kabela; sisters-in-law, Cheryl Maxfield and Deb Noll; and brothers-in-law, Rory Ditzler and Major Lee Maxifled, U.S. Army (ret).

2005 

Robert “Bob” Meisterling, 42, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on October 15. Bob, loving son, brother, brother-in-law, and most importantly father, passed away at Mercy Medical Center after sustaining a head injury from a fall. Bob was born in Munster, Indiana on September 20, 1982. He was a 2001 graduate of Washington High School and a 2005 graduate of Coe College. Bob started his career at Great America Leasing. There, he assumed increasingly responsible roles and accumulated numerous awards over a thirteen-year period. That experience was invaluable to him in establishing many long-lasting relationships. He took a hiatus in 2018 and decided to work on a passion project that culminated when he opened Ringer Golf in 2022, an indoor virtual golf facility in Czech Village. He loved Ringer and thrived because of the many people he got to know and serve. He always said he had the very best customers any business could have; that was a source of sincere gratitude for him. Bob’s focus in life were his two children, Lincoln and Theo, whom he absolutely adored. There wasn’t a minute or day when he wasn’t thinking of them. Indeed, he craved spending as much time as he could with them playing sports, video games, and just being together. He will forever be missed by Lincoln and Theo; his parents, Dick and Mary; his sister, Angela (Greg) Billman; and his twin brother, Brad (Katie). Our lives were blessed to know him as we all did. He will forever be in our hearts. Bob donated his body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program.

Non-Grads

Dr. Stanley Watkins, 95, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on September 7. He was born on June 22, 1929, in Las Cruces, New Mexico to Esther Blickenstaff Watkins and Wilber Ellis Watkins. He attended McPherson College in Kansas where he met his wife, Marilue. He completed his B.S. degree in chemistry in 1951 at New Mexico State University. Stan was active in varsity tennis, a member of the TKE fraternity and the Student Christian Association. Upon graduation, he was employed by du Pont in their Atomic Energy Division at the Savannah River Plant as a chemist and shift supervisor. He married Marilue Bowman, his Kansas sweetheart on June 6, 1952. After three years with du Pont, he entered graduate school at the University of Colorado, Boulder, earning a Phd in Analytical Chemistry in 1958. Following graduation, he was hired as an Assistant Professor at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In the following years, he studied and did research at the University of Iowa, Michigan State University, and the University of North Carolina. In addition to his teaching duties, he was elected to serve on numerous significant faculty committees at Coe before retiring after 34 dedicated years. He supported student research projects on trace elements in the environment and the structure of metal complexes with biological components in serum resulting in five scientific publications. Stan directed several National Science Foundation (NSF) programs for high ability high school students, several Undergraduate Research Participation programs and was a faculty advisor for an NSF program of student originated studies and NSF Scientific Equipment grants. During his career in Cedar Rapids, he and Marilue raised two children, Kendall and Lynn. The family was active in church outreach endeavors, music activities, and travel both domestic and foreign. Tennis and sailing were his special pursuits. He enjoyed taking family, friends, and students in his boat at Lake Macbride. He served on community committees including the Cedar Rapids Hospital Council, the Human Services Planning Committee of the United Way, the Finance and Stewardship Committees of the First Presbyterian Church of Cedar Rapids and the Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church. Memorial donations may be made to the Stanley Watkins endowed chair or to the Stanley Watkins Fund for Research at Coe College, 1220 1st Ave NE. Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402.

Thomas “Tom” Shannahan, 77, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on September 13. Tom spent his life trying to be the best father, husband, friend and sibling. He was born on January 11, 1947, and had a zest for life and enjoyed many things. Tom cherished his childhood years while growing up in Williamsburg, Iowa. Tom would often say that if his mom wasn’t cooking what he wanted for lunch or dinner, then grandma’s house was just a short walk away and she’d make him whatever he would ask for. As the eldest sibling, he was of course, spoiled the most. Tom returned to Williamsburg countless times for countless reasons, but each visit was important and memorable to him. He enjoyed the drive through town and would often tell stories about the family homes from years ago and all the friends and family too. Tom and his family moved to Cedar Rapids in 1962 and he graduated from Washington High School in 1965. While at Washington, Tom continued with his passion of playing baseball. He was a talented player but also was a scholar of the game and all of its nuances and how it should be played. Tom had an uncanny memory and knowledge of baseball. He was an avid collector of baseball cards and baseball memorabilia. He didn’t just collect cards though, he read and studied them. You could randomly pick a card out of a box and tell him who it was, and he would tell you the player’s position, what teams they had played for, statistics, etc. It was amazing. Tom loved St. Patrick’s Day. Each year he and his friends from the Home Port and his brothers would enter a float in the annual SaPaDaPaSo parade in downtown Cedar Rapids. The day of the parade was always fun but Tom enjoyed the friendships and prep time it took to prepare for the parade even more. Quite often his extended family from Williamsburg would come into town that day and he loved having everyone together even if it was just for a few hours. Tom was of course an avid Hawkeye fan. While football was probably what he enjoyed the most, it wasn’t uncommon to find him in the stands in Iowa City when the baseball team was playing. He enjoyed being at the ballpark watching the Hawkeyes and seeing the games. Tom also loved to go golfing but you wouldn’t know that if you were playing the round with him because he was very hard on himself and his game. To hear him talk, you’d think he had never swung a club before but that wasn’t the case at all. Tom was a fan of rock ‘n roll too but was an avid fan of the Rolling Stones and their music. Tom attended many Rolling Stones concerts and would readily tell you that Mick Jagger knew him and always called him Shanny. Tom didn’t always let the truth get in the way of a great story either. Recently Tom really enjoyed spending time with his brother’s two grandchildren, Blair and Spencer. Tom would playfully tell them that he was going to “womp their tater” and then proceed to tap their bottoms. The two caught onto Tom’s trick though and relished in not letting him get them every time. Tom was the oldest of 10 children, all who loved him very much. Tom went to college at Coe College and Upper Iowa University where he studied business. He met and married Pam Olney but later divorced. Tom and Pam had two children, Dan Shannahan and Darcy Parks. Tom is survived by his children Dan Shannahan and Darcy (Vince) Parks; his three grandchildren: Cassie (Marcus) Yockey, Raelee Shannahan and Logan Parks; his siblings: Sue (Harry) Tate, Pam Shannahan, Lyn Shannahan, Rex (Maggie) Shannahan, Mona Gilmore, Jackie Shannahan and Scott Shannahan (Mickey). Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Newman Shannahan; his sister, Peg Wolf; his brother Kevin Shannahan; his brothers-in-law Dave Gilmore and Ted Wolf.

Robert “Bob” Trantin, 71, of Odenton, Maryland on April 7. Strength. Integrity. Resilience. Courage. These qualities only begin to define the character embodied by Robert McCulloch Trantin, Jr., devoted husband, father, brother and son. Born in Evanston, Illinois in 1952 to parents Robert McCulloch Trantin, Sr. and Nancy Danforth Trantin, Bob's family moved to Florida in 1972. He accepted a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1976 after graduating from Florida State University with a degree in business. Bob fell for Lisa Schottenheimer in 1977 while visiting his alma mater. After initially dismissing a friend's suggestion that they'd make a good match, it didn't take long for Bob to change his tune. Bob and Lisa's chemistry was undeniable and their romance epitomized the adage, "when you know, you know." They married mere months later on June 17, 1978 and embarked on a beautiful adventure together. Bob and Lisa moved to Germany in 1980 on assignment where they welcomed their first of seven children. They returned to the U.S. in 1983 and lived in North Carolina, Kentucky and Kansas before their final station at Ft. Meade, Maryland in 1991. Bob and Lisa chose to continue raising their family in Maryland following Bob's retirement from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1998. Those who knew Bob quickly recognized his eager embrace of life and its various experiences. Even following his 2017 cancer diagnosis, his enthusiasm and optimism remained undiminished. He was a dreamer – often discussing and visualizing future adventures, goals, and projects that brought him joy and inspiration. He was a source of knowledge – an avid reader, experienced military officer and life-long learner. He was a coach – sometimes formally and always unofficially for his children's athletic pursuits. He was an admirer of nature – deeply appreciative of the sights, sounds and sensations afforded by a quiet moment outdoors. He was a force to be reckoned with – everyone who had the privilege, witnessed his passion, determination, intellect, loyalty and wisdom. Above all, though, he was a devoted husband and father – his favorite days seemingly simple ones filled with family gatherings and conversations. He was truly a Mountain of a Man. Bob will remain a cherished fixture in our hearts and memories. In addition to his beloved wife of nearly 46 years, Lisa, he leaves his children, Robert Trantin III and his wife Marisa, John Trantin and his wife Jennifer, David Trantin and his wife Amanda, Kathryn Barnaba and her husband Christopher, Jacob Trantin and his wife Ruslana, Alexander Trantin and Willis Trantin; his grandchildren, Bella Trantin, Robert Trantin IV, Camden Trantin, Jackson Trantin and Scarlett Trantin; his sisters, Lee Trantin, Deborah Trantin, Nancy Smith and Wendy McCombs; and many loving nephews, nieces and friends. We trust that Bob is now in the embrace of his late parents Robert Trantin, Sr. and Nancy Trantin.

Gordon Rundquist, 80, of Iowa City, Iowa on September 20. Gordon was born on October 22, 1943, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the son of Donald and Geraldine (Gordon) Rundquist. Gordon was raised in Marion, Iowa, and attended Marion High School. He developed his love of basketball under the guidance of Coach Les Hipple, long-time Hall of Fame high school basketball coach, who was a father figure to him. Gordon went on to play college football and basketball at Coe College, under Don King, where he remained after graduation as a graduate assistant for the football and basketball programs. Prior to attending Coe College, Gordon played football and basketball at Mason City Junior College where he met and eventually married the love of his life: Sherry Espinosa. Gordon was fond of telling the story of when he met Sherry – he watched her walk down the staircase at MCJC and told his buddy he was going to marry her. Gordon was welcomed into the Espinosa family whose values and acceptance molded him into the man he became. Gordon and Sherry had a fairytale love story and celebrated 60 years of marriage on June 27, 2024. They had two sons, Matthew and Paul. Gordon taught K-12 PE, driver's ed and was the athletic director at Maquoketa Valley in Delhi, Iowa. He is fondly remembered for his unique approach to teaching, always engaging everyone, building relationships, and making learning fun. Former students recall donut runs and ice cream stops during driver's ed. Most know Coach Rundquist for his outstanding achievements in the high school basketball arena. He compiled a 559-250 record in his 38 years as a head coach, first at West Branch, and then at Maquoketa Valley. He led the MV Wildcats to 16 conference titles, eight district titles and five state tournaments including a second-place finish in 1986. He was named the 1992 State Coach of the Year and was honored as Tri-Rivers Conference Coach of the Year 13 times. Coach Rundquist was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. Most recently, Coach Rundquist served as assistant coach to Steve Bergman at Iowa City West High School. Coach Rundquist was ahead of his time in building a K-12 basketball program. He believed building relationships and teaching fundamental basketball skills beginning with elementary-aged kids would create a culture of basketball excellence. His camps are fondly remembered by his players who have noted that if someone couldn't pay for the camp, Coach Rundquist would provide the payment. In 1988, Gordon traveled to Australia with Sports for Understanding, where he met Brian Harvey who he would later refer to as his brother from another mother. In partnership, they created The Great Australian Shootout in Melbourne, Australia which became Australia's biggest under-20 tournament. Coach Rundquist took 12 teams to Australia introducing them to a different culture and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But the truth of who Gordon Rundquist was lies in the titles of Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother. The patriarch of the Rundquist family, he led with humor, laughter and love. He was the first call when one of his grandchildren wanted to share an accomplishment, seek advice or needed a shoulder to cry on. He is remembered as the whistling tickle monster and silly toe pincher. He was the life of the party, the holder of babies, the maker of margaritas and the player of Clue and cribbage. He adored his wife Sherry who was the wind beneath his wings, his children who were his source of pride, and his grandchildren who were the light of his life. Gordon loved his annual fishing trip to Canada with his buddies, son and grandson. He was the first to rise in the early morning to prepare Bloody Marys for this motley crew of blue marlin Master Fishermen, delivering them to each person's doorstep. He enjoyed traveling with his family to Hawkeye Bowl games where win or lose, he made sure everyone had a good time. His favorite outing of the year was to the Northwestern Steakhouse in Mason City where his family celebrated Christmas, keeping a countdown on his phone which he would share with his grandkids. The Steakhouse was a celebration of his family and Gordon was the master of ceremonies. Known as "Big G," "G-Bob," "G," "G-man" and "Gordo," he was loved beyond measure. Gordon never met a stranger and had no enemies. From his daily phone calls to his son, many FaceTimes with his grandchildren, happy hours with his wife and pulling pranks on his friends and family, Gordon made sure everyone knew they were loved. Gordon was not only a Hall of Fame Coach, he was a Hall of Fame Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother and Friend. He is known for saying, "You can't put a price on a good time." Gordon is survived by his wife Sherry, son Paul (Amanda), grandchildren April (Dylan) Bickford, Kodi, Paul and Katlyn, and three great-grandchildren. He leaves one sister, Mimi Steadman; sister-in-law, Ann Espinosa; brother-in-law, Pete Espinosa and numerous nieces and nephews. Gordon was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Matthew.

Alan Benewitz, 73, of New York, New York on September 16. Alan Noel Benewitz passed away on September 16, 2024, at the age of 73, in New York, New York. Born on October 1, 1951 in Manhasset, Long Island, Alan moved to Manhattan after graduating from Coe College, where he studied following his time at Manhasset High School. Throughout his career, Alan was a respected figure at Thorograph Racing, where he dedicated himself to the analysis of thoroughbred racing statistics. Known for his acumen in identifying the long shots, his intelligence and wit were as much a part of his professional life as they were of his personal interactions. Alan was a true gentleman and a lifelong New Yorker, cherishing his life in Manhattan where he lived after college. He is fondly remembered for his sharp humor and his gentle, considerate nature. He leaves behind his long-time partner, Irene Nesbit; his sister, Lesley Frank; brother-in-law Robert Frank; and nephews, Jesse and Jeremy Frank. Alan was predeceased by his twin brother, Mark, and his parents, Maurice and Doris (Ladell) Benewitz.

Janice McInally, 61, of Urbandale, Iowa on October 5. Janice was born on September 20, 1963 to Patricia and Joseph Scharra in Akron, Ohio. She was a graduate of the University of Akron, where she met her devoted husband Dave and was active in Alpha Gamma Delta sorority (serving as President), the Panhellenic Council and many other aspects of student life. In 2013, Janice and Dave moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she served as the “First Spouse” of Coe College. Janice made the role her own, dedicating herself to many forms of service to Coe and the local community, serving countless local organizations and bringing joy wherever she went. In recognition of her constant and cheerful devotion, the Coe College Center for Health and Society bears her name. Upon retirement, she and Dave relocated to Urbandale to be near family, including their first grandchild, Nathaniel. They became active in Heartland Presbyterian Church, a loving and welcoming community perfectly suited to Janice’s generous spirit. All who knew Janice describe her as joyful, kind and optimistic. She believed in being a strong leader through selflessness, warmth, a positive spirit and especially happiness. She opened her home and her heart to everyone. Her joy shone brightly in all times and all places. And when it was time to rest, she treasured the simple things: a cozy home, needlecraft, baking cookies, and above all, being with her family.

Dorothy Weeks Martinek, 95, of Canton, Michigan on October 14. Born on June 22, 1929 to Earl and Esther Weeks, Dorothy, affectionately known as Dodie, was a vibrant and straightforward individual known for her outspoken nature and sharp sense of humor. Dorothy attended CW Bardwell Elementary School and East Aurora High School in Aurora, Illinois before earning her degree from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Throughout her life, Dorothy was deeply devoted to her faith, actively participating in the community of St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Canton, Michigan. Dodie was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She is survived by her daughter, Beth Ann (Ray); son, Ken (Cynthia); granddaughter, Katharine Keelin; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Otto, in 1986; her parents, Earl and Esther Weeks; and her brother, Dean Weeks. Dorothy was known for her love of books, bridge and travel, often embarking on adventures with her daughter, Beth. She cherished gatherings in her garage, inviting neighbors to join and fostering a sense of community. Her home was a hub of warmth and welcoming, thanks in part to her group of "food fairies," who supported her like a personal Meals on Wheels program.

Kermit Postier, 91, of Marion, Iowa on October 18. He was born on January 1, 1933, in Inman, Kansas, where he spent his early years working on his family's wheat farm. At the age of 18, Kermit joined the U.S. National Guard before transitioning to the U.S. Army, where he served as a cook for a medical unit stationed in Germany during the Korean War. Following his military service, Kermit moved to Colorado and began a career in drywall, a trade that would define much of his working life. In 1963, he and his wife Rosann relocated to Marion, Iowa, where they later founded Kermit E. Postier Drywall. Kermit quickly established himself as the leading drywall contractor in the Cedar Rapids area, earning a reputation for his artistry and precision in the trade. When the housing market took a downturn in the 1980s, Kermit and Rosann decided to sell their business. Kermit then transitioned to a new role in maintenance at Kirkwood Community College, where he quickly rose through the ranks to management. In 1987, he accepted a position as Director of Physical Plant at Coe College, where he worked until his well-deserved retirement. Kermit was known for his great sense of humor and his ability to make friends wherever he went. He deeply cared for others and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Kermit's life was one marked by dedication, hard work, and love for those around him. He will be dearly missed.

Shirley White Pearl, 91, of Saint Paul, Minnesota on October 28. Shirley White Pearl is survived by daughter, Linda; son-in-law Nick Brill; grandson, Daniel Brill (Tina Bellefeuille) and great-granddaughter, Callie Brill. She is preceded in death by her parents, Cynthia White and George White; brother, George White Jr.; and long-time partner, Fred Reese. Born Shirley Ann White in Marshalltown Iowa, she attended grade and high school in Marshalltown and got her undergraduate education at Coe College and the University of Iowa studying journalism and psychology. She received her PhD in educational psychology there and worked in the educational field all her life. She worked in the Children's Unit of the Mental Health Institute in Independence, Iowa, later moving to Waterloo, Iowa working at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Shirley moved to St. Paul, Minnesota in 1969 with her former husband, Harold Pearl, to work for the St. Paul Public Schools, where she started and managed the Behavioral Learning Center, an innovative program for children with behavior problems who were not able to attend other public schools. She authored an instruction manual, "Managing Disruptive Behavior in the Elementary School" with her co-author, Don Challman. She finished her 20 years with the St. Paul Public Schools as principal at Phalen Lake Elementary School and retired in 1989. She lived in the Crocus Hill neighborhood in St. Paul for over 40 years and loved her Grand Avenue neighborhood calling it "Grandville." After retiring, she travelled the world extensively, visiting many exotic destinations with her partner of 20 years, Fred Reese. She also travelled with her daughter, a tennis fan, to Wimbledon, the French Open and the Australian Open. She wrote two books, "The Marginal Woman-Breaking Boundaries in a Pre-Feminist World" about her life growing up, and "The Occasional Man" about her travels with Fred. She also served on the Board of Directors for part of that time with Hamline University and Penumbra Theatre. Upon becoming the executor of her Aunt's estate, she established scholarships for St. Thomas College and Hamline University in St. Paul, while also administering already established scholarships at her Uncle's alma mater, Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Missouri. She was an extrovert who enjoyed good friends and good times and was dancing with our family friend "Aunt" Phyllis Goff at the Orpheum Theatre one week before her death. She also loved and valued her time with another close family friend, Renee Paradez Winters, who has been a godsend to Linda and Shirley these last few years.

Linda Andrews Palmer, 83, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 7. Born in 1940, Linda was a lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids, with the last six years living at Cottage Grove Place. Linda attended Jefferson High School and was active in the Band of Blue. She then attended Coe College, where she met Ralph. It was not long before they married, and along came Cindy (Taylor), Rebecca (Keenan), and Jeff. Being the daughter of Ken and Mary Andrews, Linda worked at Ken Andrews Auto Restoration (now Andrews Collision Center), Swiss Farms Dairy and finished up at Rockwell. Until it was demolished after the flood, Linda was a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church. Along the way, Linda made many, many friends that she dearly loved. Linda was an avid Cedar Rapids Kernels fan and followed Iowa women’s basketball way before it was cool! She was ALWAYS there to support her kids with all of the activities that they were involved in. She was definitely a mom first and then everything else. Of course, she also spent plenty of time supporting Ralph with all of his endeavors around the country. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Ken and Mary Andrews; her sister, Beverly; and brother-in-law, Don (West), along with her husband Ralph. Left behind are Cindy and Chris Taylor, Rebecca and Terry Keenan and Jeff and Connie Palmer. Her grandkids, Cody and Sara Palmer, and Mason and CheLynn Taylor were always dearly loved and she cherished every moment with them.

Jocelyn Bickel, 94, of Pueblo, Colorado on November 7. Born to Doris (Allen) Bickel and Robert O. Bickel in Waterloo, Iowa, she later attended Franklin High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She then attended William Woods College in Missouri and went to Coe College, majoring in music. She was an active member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority prior to moving to New Mexico with her daughter. She worked as a secretary for Collins Radio before having two children. She was home while her children were young. Jocelyn was a Blue Bird leader and involved with the Boy Scouts too. Also, a member of the PEO (JT) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Magna Carter Dame and DAR. Jocelyn played the flute, loved Big Band music and sang throughout her life, including a choir well into her mid-80’s in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Music was a part of her entire life. She loved all creatures (especially dogs and cats) and nature with lots of day trips in New Mexico and Colorado. Jocelyn enjoyed playing bridge with friends, sewing, knitting, needlepoint, gardening with her daughter and baking delicious desserts. Jocelyn is survived by her daughter, Virginia Fahrenkrog and daughter-in-law, Bev Schwartz. Jocelyn was preceded in death by her son Robert Fahrenkrog, brother Alan Bickel and parents Doris (Allen) Bickel and Robert O. Bickel of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Robert “Bob” Michael, 92, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 14. Born on March 21, 1932, at the University of Iowa Hospital, Bob was the son of Howard (Howdy) and Catherine Michael. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barb Meachum; and his brother, Gary Michael. Bob is survived by his four children: Andrea Michael (Barry Waters), Tobin Michael (Dolora), Brock Michael and Noel Michael (Carla); his partner of 42 years, Nina Musick, and her three children: Chris Newitt, Lance Newitt and David Roushdi; his twin sister, Beverly Calvert; and numerous grandchildren who will remember him for his warmth, humor and love of life. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, Bob served during the Korean War in 1952, an experience that shaped much of his life. His commitment to service continued through his involvement in many veterans' organizations, including the Cedar Valley Marine Corps League, VFW Post 788, American Legion Post 572 of Fairfax, the Korean War Veterans Association and the National Association of Atomic Veterans. In later years, Bob volunteered at the local VA hospital, where he was known for his welcoming presence and greeting visitors with the same enthusiasm he had brought to all aspects of his life. Bob's love for softball was legendary, and he became a fixture in the local softball community. Known as a fierce player and a devoted fan, he played on numerous fast-pitch and slow-pitch teams, including the Fleck's Falstaff team that won the Men's open fast-pitch state championship in 1961, 1962 and 1965. Fleck Happitime won the 16" state tournament in 1969. His contributions to the game didn't end on the field; he became a beloved announcer known as the "Voice of Cedar Rapids Softball." His entertaining commentary, filled with stories and trivia, made every game feel like an event. Bob was inducted into the State Fast-pitch Hall of Fame in 1980, the State Slow-pitch Hall of Fame in 1981 and he was a proud member of the Cedar Rapids Softball Hall of Fame, where he also served on the Hall of Fame committee for several years. In addition to his passion for sports, Bob was a charter member of the SaPaDaPaSo (Saint Patrick's Day Parade Society), where he served as the Parade Master of Ceremonies for 33 years. His larger-than-life personality and love of entertaining made him a natural fit for the role, and he took great joy in bringing people together to celebrate. Bob was never one to shy away from a good time and his infectious energy and storytelling will be remembered by all who had the privilege of hearing him on parade day or in the stands at a ballgame. A man of great integrity, humor and heart, Bob Michael leaves behind a legacy that spans far beyond the softball field and the parade route. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Robert donated his body to the University of Iowa Medical School.

Andrew “Andy” Rowe, 71, of Overland Park, Kansas on November 19. Andrew John Rowe was born March 15, 1953 in Texas. His family moved around frequently, including to Arlington, a town in Ohio which Andy loved. From a young age he developed a love of comic books that would endure for the rest of his life. Andy also developed a lifelong love of reading in general, especially history and military aircraft. Coming of age in the late 1960s and early 70s, Andy chose to keep the fact that he was transgender and bisexual a secret for his own safety. Andy described knowing he was trans from the age of five, when he saw Bugs Bunny in drag while at a drive-in with his family. “I realized that was what I am.” Some of his experiences were more typical for a man who drove a VW Thing and viewed himself as a hippie. A buddy once offered him “loaded brownies” one day at work and Andy, unsuspectingly, ate one. Telling us the story later for a laugh, he said, “I just thought they were loaded with chocolatey goodness.” He attended Coe College and another university, earning a degree in liberal arts. He chose to marry and fathered two children, Elizabeth (Beth) and John Daniel (JD). In the mid 1980s, Andy started his business, Make It Magic, making complex and lighted sets designed for theaters, restaurants, special occasions and event venues. A lifelong artist in various mediums, Andy was a highly skilled sculptor but also enjoyed drawing, painting and making stained glass. Those of us close to Andy will always remember him by the art on our shelves or hanging on our walls. And those of us very close to him know the details of how several paintings of his came to be exhibited at the University of Kansas student union gallery under the name Alonzo Kosciusko. Later, he was hired by Padgett-Thompson Training and Seminars as an instructor. He traveled the country extensively for more than a decade, teaching the employees of client companies from coast to coast. Respected and constantly sought after for his excellent teaching abilities, the anonymity of distant cities and daytime lectures provided Andy brief opportunities to live as his true person, a trans woman named Diana Richards. At that time, Diana never came back from work trips. When first meeting guests in his home, Andy would exuberantly showcase his comic book collection, which took up most of the shelf space in a spare bedroom. A consummate fanboy of classic comics, his black Pontiac Bonneville bore the vanity plate “BATMBLE.” He was involved with the Johnson County Bike Club (JCBC) and an early proponent of bike helmets. Andy was known for cycling around town to work and regular errands, wearing a rubber band around his pant leg to keep the cuff from getting caught in the gears. He enjoyed Franzia boxed wine, pastries from Pumpernick’s deli, seldom spoke a harsh word about anyone and avidly listened to NPR. He preferred classical music almost exclusively and had opinions like, “the violins always get the glory, but the violas have a richer sound.” Andy was usually quiet and reserved, but possessed of a dry wit and brilliant sense of comedic timing. Upon finally finding a missing tool he’d been searching for in order to make a specific repair, he said, “sometimes, having the right tool for the job is better than sex.” No one would deny that Andy was a character. It was all nearly cut short in 1999 when Andy was diagnosed with stage IV non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After failing several rounds of chemo over nearly a year, the worst was feared. Expecting a rapid decline, the doctors gave him a matter of months to live, but an experimental bone marrow (stem cell) transplant saved his life and his cancer went into remission. Weakened by the chemo treatments, Andy began a slow recovery toward maintaining a regular work schedule and independent living. During this time he worked at the family business, Pete ‘n’ Repeat, so he could take naps whenever he needed them. A few years later, he and his wife divorced and Andy retired. He began traveling cross country in his minivan, visiting small diners and roadside attractions, sticking to the state highways in a kind of beatnik road trip. Andy extensively toured every air museum and major airshow in the continental United States, including the Mid-America Air Museum in Liberal, Kansas, and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in DC. He loved every minute of his trips and regaled us with stories of his travels when he returned, like the time he became lost in rural Louisiana and his car got stuck in the mud in a bayou.mIt was around this time that his association with Brenda Ramsey began, first as a romantic partner, then, after their romance ended, as a close friend. They bought a house together in the foothills of North Carolina; later they moved to rural south central Kansas. After that they moved into her house in Overland Park, and finally, he moved alone into a townhouse in the same city. Brenda was a frequent visitor and constant feature in his life. During this time, Andy came out first as bisexual, and then as a trans woman, and was accepted by his family. At the age of 66, in January of 2020, Andy transitioned to Diana with the intention of permanently remaining so. When presenting as Andy, he had previously used he/him pronouns, and after the transition, used she/her pronouns. Rather than being offended by people using his former name, Andy took an atypical position. “I’m not sad that I was Andy, and Andy isn’t dead to me. Andy had children. Andy was a father. It’s just that I’m Diana, now.” She also said, “I never thought I would live to see this day, that I could come out and be accepted by my family, and live in a world where trans people are accepted.” Diana saw herself as a Trans Elder and took the role seriously, giving public talks about the trans experience mainly to cisgender and heterosexual people, and answering the questions they had. Also a mentor to her community, she gave makeup tips and advice on dressing to inexperienced trans women. When Diana (nervously) got a partime job at Johnson County Community College as a writing tutor, she was surprised to be accepted by coworkers and supervisors. Diana had a constant stream of students and regulars seeking her advice and editorial guidance, and her supervisors valued her highly. In her time as Diana, she was more full of life, love and happiness, than those of us close to her had ever seen before. She hugged her grandchildren more, got socially involved more, and wrote more letters to the editor (much to the chagrin of the literate conservatives within the Kansas City Star distribution area). Diana even won honorable mention in a countywide short story contest at the public library. Unfortunately, in late 2023, Diana’s cancer returned. Being twenty-five years older, and a cancer survivor already, her health was not as robust as at the time of her first diagnosis, and treatment options were more limited. She continued presenting as Diana until she was too weak to dress herself. At that time she reverted back to Andy. Incredibly to many of us, she was not bitter about this. “I got to live as my real self for years. I’ve lived a full life.” On the afternoon of November 19th, Andy died in hospice under the care of Brenda and many excellent nurses. He was not in pain, and he died easy in his sleep surrounded by family and friends who loved him. Our family especially would like to thank Brenda for her devoted care on that day and every day. Andy is preceded in death by his parents, Dean Rowe and Johannah Rowe, and leaves behind his older siblings, Daniel and Mindy; daughter, Elizabeth (Brian); son, JD (Taylor); and grandchildren: Aiden, Zoe and Sylvia; many friends, acquaintances, customers of the family business and the epitaph that even in the winter of our lives we may change ourselves, even greatly, live truly and love our lives more fully than ever before.

Irvin Gerks, 92, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 26. He was born October 22 in Atlanta, Georgia, son of Irvin H. and Sue M. Gerks. Irv graduated from Franklin High School in 1951, attended Coe College for two years and then graduated from the University of Iowa with a BSME in 1960. Irv also served two years in the Army. He had a love of football, playing at Franklin, Coe and for the Army while stationed in Germany. His other interests included long distance running, photography and learning PhotoShop. After graduating, Irv worked as an engineer at Collins Radio, the Rock Island Arsenal and Rockwell Electronics, retiring in 1994. Irv married Judith Podhaski in 1959 and then later divorced. In 1994 Irv was united in marriage to Wilda Dalziel. Irv is survived by his wife, Wilda; two sons: Eric and John Gerks; one daughter: Patrice Morey; three grandsons; two stepsons: Dan and Joe Dalziel. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ann Cline.

William “Bill” Mason, 57, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 24. Bill was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Myrna and Harold Cooney, and uncle, Kieth Rathjen. Bill is survived by his three children: Katherine Mason, William J. (Stephanie) Mason and Sarah Mason; his five grandchildren: Stella and Ella Doss, Justin Mason and fiancée Emily Kelly, and Lauren and Liam Mason; great-granddaughter, Briella Renee; aunt, Kathleen Rathjen, and cousins, Kira (Conrad) Gruber and Karl (Carolyn) Rathjen; friend and ex-wife, Mary Wisehart; and chosen family, Scott Looney, Phil Malerich, Mark Moore and many cherished friends. Bill’s story began on October 7th, 1957 in Marengo, Iowa to Myrna and William A. Mason. He had a very active upbringing, from spending time with his grandparents in Williamsburg, Iowa to his involvement with the church, Boy Scouts, theater and traveling to Norway in high school, Bill was always finding ways to learn new things and meet new people. Bill graduated from Jefferson High School in 1975 and married Mary Weishart in 1977, with whom he had three beautiful children. He attended Coe College beginning in 1987 and was involved in many clubs, building lifelong friendships for years to come. Bill held several volunteer positions throughout his adult life that brought him pride and joy. He spent 10 years with Legion Arts CSPS working on lighting, sound and set design; volunteered with and served on the board of the Science Station/Maker’s Space; and was involved with the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy where he spent time fostering his love for music in many of his grandchildren. Bill had interests in photography, music, cinema, reading, technology, creativity and nature, which he loved to share with his children, grandchildren and friends. He was an eccentric, interesting and wonderful person who found joy in sharing his knowledge on many topics with those he loved. As his mother said, “Everyone needs a ‘Bill’.” Bill never met a person he couldn’t have an enjoyable conversation with, and has had an immeasurable impact on many who loved and cherished him. To quote the Eleventh Doctor, “We are all stories in the end. Just make it a good one, eh?”

Chalene “Char” Parks Bennett, 89, of Winter Haven, Florida on November 22. Her resilience was a source of inspiration as she battled and triumphed over breast cancer, a testament to her strength. She ultimately succumbed to congestive heart failure. Char was born on December 3, 1934, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated from McKinley High School in Cedar Rapids and attended Coe College before marrying her first husband, Bob Fisher in 1953. Bob entered the Air Force, and they were stationed in Orlando and later the Washington, D.C. area. They shared 20 years of marriage and raised three sons, Bob Jr., Rod and Randy, while moving between Florida, Virginia and Iowa for Bob’s career. In 1974, Char moved to Winter Haven with her boys and quickly made it home. Eight years later, in 1982, Char married her second husband, Alden "Al" Bennett. Char's professional life blossomed when she joined an advertising agency in Lakeland. Later, she achieved her dream job as a tour planner and escort at Central Travel/AAA Travel Agency. Her career allowed her to travel extensively, visiting all 50 states and over 120 countries. Char and Al explored the world in their Volkswagen campervan, living like locals in remote areas and embracing a minimalist lifestyle. They soaked in diverse cultures, from favorite places like Tonga, Fiji, Thailand, Indonesia, China, New Zealand, Namibia, South Africa, New Guinea and every country in South America (except three small ones in the north), to name just a few. Char’s love for reading led her to lead the Orchid Springs Book Club for many years. She coordinated neighborhood luncheons, hosted memorable parties, and volunteered at the Winter Haven Library. She was also a dedicated member of PEO for over 65 years. Char's zest for life shone through in her adventurous spirit. Growing up, she excelled at playing the piano, bowling, tennis and golf and enjoyed creating miniature European paintings in her spare time. Despite never learning to swim, she fearlessly took up scuba diving, diving 100 feet to explore a sunken Caribbean pirate ship. Her adventurous nature extended to piloting single-engine Cessnas, showcasing her boundless energy and willingness to embrace new challenges. Char’s legacy lives on through her cherished family: her devoted husband of 42 years, Al; sons, Bob Fisher and Dr. Randy Fisher (Jodie); stepchildren: Mark Bennett (Debbie), Holly Hatcher (Mike), Guy Bennett (Kristen), and Jody Fatta (Mike). She was the proud grandmother to Matt Fisher (Valerie), Alle Sprague (Cody), Dr. Carleigh Fisher Quillen (Patrick), Chelsea Fisher and many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Char is also survived by her loving siblings, Clark Parks (Nancy) and Phyllis Drobny (Bob). She was predeceased by her beloved sister, Dianne Babcock; her half-brother, Charles Parks Jr.; and her dear son, Rod Fisher, who passed earlier this year. Char’s life was a testament to living fully and without regret. She saw the world, touched countless lives and left a legacy of love, laughter and curiosity. She will be profoundly missed but never forgotten by the family and friends fortunate enough to know her.

Dr. W. Kent “Doc” Herron, 84, of North Liberty, Iowa on December 2. A story about the life and legacy of Dr. W. Kent Herron can be found on pages 20-23 of the 2025 Winter Courier issue.

Ross Shepard, 65, of Deerfield, Illinois on December 2. Ross Arthur Shepard of Deerfield, IL passed away on December 2, 2024 at the age of 65. He was born on June 2, 1959 to Leonard and Sharon Shepard. After graduating from Deerfield High School in 1977, Ross attended Coe College. In 1988, he married the love of his life, Margaret Wittlinger. Ross worked for many years as a sales manager for Alfa Tools. He loved golf, crossword puzzles, and attending concerts at Ravinia. Ross was a kind and gentle man who got along with everyone he met and cared deeply for his friends and family. He excelled at making people laugh with his quick wit and mastery of puns. Ross is survived by his brothers, Mark (Christine) and Jim; sister, Ellen (John); aunt Shelley; nieces and nephews: Emily (David), Leah, Jon, Sam and Evan; four grandnieces and grandnephews; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Sharon, and his wife, Margaret.

Janice “Jan” O’Brien Getten, 88, of Edina, Minnesota on December 7. A lifelong Minnesotan, Jan went to Washburn High School, attended Coe College and graduated from the University of Minnesota. Her early career was as an elementary teacher, where she met George Getten, who would become her husband of nearly 59 years. They married in 1957 and moved to Edina, where their sons were born and raised. Jan was charismatic and loved to talk, a characteristic she put to great use in a later career in real estate, where she specialized in leasing and sales at senior housing complexes. Jan was an avid bridge player, a world traveler and a film buff. She was a lifelong theater lover and a volunteer usher at the Guthrie Theater from its inaugural season for more than 40 years. She had a wide circle of friends with whom she loved to share the simple pleasures of a walk around the lake, splitting a tuna sandwich at a favorite lunch spot and settling in for a good long chat. She adored the color orange. Her stories were gloriously embellished. There was no one like Jan as a loving sister, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Jan is survived by her sons, Brien Getten (Shelley) and Tim Leone-Getten (Mary Beth); grandchildren: Devin, Brighid, Siena and Paloma; sister, Kathie DuRocher (Frank); and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank her caregivers, Lauretta and Patricia, for filling her last years with love, humor and tender care.

Mary Jo Lorenc Crull, 86, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on January 11. Mary Jo was born on August 4, 1938, in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of Charles and Mildred (Putnam) Lorenc. After high school, Mary Jo attended Coe College for two years. She was a licensed cosmetologist for a time, but she truly found her calling when she began working for the Cedar Rapids School District in 1974 as a food service manager at Roosevelt Middle School. She worked in this role until her retirement in 2001. On April 4, 1962, Mary Jo married Charles T. Crull in Oahu, Hawaii. Together they raised a family, which included a son, Wayne, and a daughter, Lisa. Sadly, both Wayne and Lisa have passed away. Throughout her life, she enjoyed various hobbies and interests, particularly knitting. She also had a deep commitment to her church, where she served as a deacon, and a member of the prayer knitting ministry, reflecting her strong faith and dedication to her community. Mary Jo was a member of D.A.V. Chapter 10 Auxiliary, Church Circle "Ruth" Martha-Ruth, Food Service Association, PEO Chapter Lu and a lifetime member of Westminster Presbyterian. She will be missed by those who knew and loved her. Mary Jo is survived by her daughter-in-law, Callie Crull, as well as her grandchildren: Mallary (Albert) Holcomb, Bianca Crull, Ashley (Jordan) Carpenter, and Cole Rinderknecht. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Amelia "Mimi" Holcomb. Mary Jo Crull was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Crull; her parents, Charles and Mildred Lorenc; and children, Lisa Crull and Wayne Crull.

Dr. Albert Schmidt, 99, of Washington, D.C. on January 18. Dr. Albert J Schmidt, former professor of history at Coe, passed away on January 18, 2025. Schmidt was born in Germantown, Louisville, Kentucky on August 27, 1925. He enlisted in the US Army Air Forces in 1943 and won a Rector Scholarship to DePauw University, where he completed his freshman year before being called to duty. In 1945–46, he served with the 13th Army Air Forces in New Guinea and the Philippines, where he taught emergency communication procedures and engaged in air-sea rescue operations. Schmidt was among the crowd of veterans who returned to college campuses in the autumn of 1946. After graduating from DePauw in 1949, he entered the doctoral program in history at the University of Pennsylvania. He was a Fulbright scholar at the University of London (1952–53), where he did his doctoral research, and received his Ph.D. from Penn in 1953. His specialty was early modern British history. Schmidt taught history at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 1953–65 and at the
University of Bridgeport in Connecticut from 1965-90, where he served as the Arnold J.
Bernhard Professor of History. Schmidt retired from teaching in 1988 but continued to engage in historical research and scholarship for several more decades. In retirement, he was a dedicated member of the League of Women Voters lobby corps, a docent at the National Portrait Gallery, and a U.S. State Department elections supervisor in Bosnia and Kosovo. He was also a regular attendee of events at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and George Washington University’s Institute for European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies. He passed peacefully on January 18, 2025 in his 100th year.