Taylor County, Iowa W-name Obituaries
Pat O'Dell: genpat@netins.net
 
Whaley, Hobart Wharton was born Sept 3, 1918, and departed this life February 15, 1919, aged 5 months and 12 days. He leaves to mourn his death a father and mother, two brothers Garold and Loren and two sisters, Vesta and Alma, grandparents, his great-grandmothers and a number of aunts and uncles.
 

Wirth, Charles - One by one the early settlers are passing on. Thursday morning of last week another of the old and highly respected citizens of this community answered the final summons in the person of Charles Wirth. He had been a most respected citizen of this neighborhood for 45 years and during that time had, by his honesty and uprightness established for himself a reputation which was to be envied. Though he is not with us in the flesh, he will long be remembered for his sturdy character and the world is better for his having lived.

Funeral services were held Friday and interment was in the Guss cemetery.

Charles Wirth was born in Germany April 17, 1835 and departed this life at his home 4 1/2 miles northeast of New Market June 15, 1922, aged 87 years 1 month and 28 days. He was married to Elizabeth Letterman in Peoria County, Illinois, April 1, 1866. They lived in Illinois until 1875. Then came to Butler county, Iowa where they remained for about six months. From there they moved to Dallas township, Taylor County, Iowa where they lived a life of true companionship one to the other until June 7, 1904 their earthly union was broken by the death of his wife. To this union were born five children, Mrs Louisa Dunn, John Wirth, Mrs Ida Combs, Mrs Mary Osburn and Mrs Cora Van Horn all of whom reside in the Glassgow community. These five faithful children, and their companions who did all that was in their power for father Wirth during the six days of his sickness, were all present at the funeral service which was held in the Free Methodist church. Father Wirth was converted about 40 years ago and has since that time lived devout, consistent Christian life, thus preparing himself to say with the Psalmist David "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me." His suffering during his sickness was of the most intense nature but by the God of all grace, whom he loved and served for 40 long years, was with him to comfort and strengthen him in pain and death.

But today he rests where there shall be no more death, nor crying neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away. From whence his eternal spirit shall beckon his many friends and loved ones to the beautiful city of God. He is survived by his 5 children, 17 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren. One granddaughter preceded him in death February 19, 1922. He also leaves a host of friends to mourn his death. The funeral service was conducted by Rev J.P. Rowland, pastor of the Glassgow Free Methodist church, assisted by Rev W. G. Taylor, pastor of the College Springs Free Methodist church.

 
Weaver, George Grant, son of John H. and Mary Frances Nunn Weaver, was born in McDonough County near Macomb, Ill., Nov 5, 1872 and died Dec 29, 1956. At an early age moved to New Market and lived in Barton community. He was married to Nevah May Hicks Mar 15, 1900. He was one of 6 children. Eliza died in infancy, Loretta Frances Leighton, Dora Ann Dunlavy and William Ingram Weaver preceded him in death. One brother, Joseph Oscar Weaver, now 82 years old, resides in St Paul, Minn. His wife died Jul 6, 1952. Surviving are his sons, Walden L. of Hemet, Calif., Willie D. of Clarinda, daughter, Pauline Vickroy of Riverside, Calif, granddaughter, Neva Jane Weaver.
 

Wildman, Olgaretta Davidson - Born on August 20, 1902 in Sheridan, Mo, Olgaretta graduated from high school in Blockton, Iowa. She married James Wildman on May 1, 1922. Together they purchased the Sheridan Press when the type had to be set by hand.

A son, Quentin, was born in 1923. Olgaretta and her family moved to Bedford, Iowa and purchased a grocery store on Main Street in 1929. Later on, the family moved to Omaha, Neb. Where their son graduated from high school.

They finally settled in Ames, Iowa in their later years where her husband retired in 1977.

She and James retured to Bedford to be close to their friends for their retirement. After her husband fell ill in 1979, they moved to Naples, Fla. Where she and her son could care for him.

After James Wildman died in 1985, Olgaretta, having always been an avid letter writer, spent her time writing letters to her friends. She also kept busy by working in the garden and was very fond of feeding the wild birds.

After an illness, Olgaretta passed away on November 5, 1999. She was 97 years old.

Three brothers, one grandson and her daughter-in-law preceded her in death. She is survived by her son, a grandson, a granddaughter, a great granddaughter and her two sisters. She has 10 nieces and nephews and numerous great and great, great nieces and nephews.

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Feb 02, 2000

Walker, Rebecca Johnson - Mrs R.M. Walker died at the home of her daughter, Mrs C.C. Corson, Monday, May 26. The funeral services were held at the Corson home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev William B. Thompson. Interment was made in the Fairview cemetery.

Rebecca Johnson was born in Leasburg, Ohio, in 1842. When she was six years of age she came to Iowa. In 1863 she was united in marriage to Calvin Walker. To this union were born three children, all of whom survive. They are Coryl M. Corson and Lottretta Scane both of Bedford and Andrew Scott Walker of Indianola. Mr Walker died Jan 5, 1877.

She united with the Methodist Episcopal church when she was 16 years of age and lived a devoted christian life each day. Besides her children she leaves to mourn her death six grandchildren, one sister and three brothers.

Bedford Free-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Jun 6, 1913

[106] Wagaman, Orvis - Funeral services for Orvis Wagaman, age 87, of Omaha, Nebraska, formerly of Villisca, Iowa, who died Tuesday, November 21, 2006, at Midlands Hospital, Papillion, Nebraska, were held Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. at the United Methodist Church, Villisca, Iowa, with Reverend Doug Delp, officiating.


Interment with military rites accorded by the Ker-A-Vor American Legion Post No. 251 was held in the Villisca Cemetery in Villisca, Iowa. Memorials can be directed to the American Red Cross. Please leave a message of tribute to the Wagaman family on our web page, www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Crosby Burket Swanson Golden Colonial Chapel, of Omaha, Nebraska and Ritchie Funeral Service of Clarinda, Iowa.

Orvis Austin Wagaman was born April 4, 1919 in Clome, South Dakota, the son of Clevie Austin Wagaman and Ona Mae (Higgins) Wagaman. Orvis served his country during World War II in the United States Army and was a prisoner of war. He was united in marriage January 3, 1946, to Carolyn Nelson at Hiawatha, Kansas.

Orvis worked in the Villisca Power Plant after returning from the service. He also farmed until 1970. In addition he sold memberships for Ed Nelson and he also traveled as a salesman for the Power Plants. He was forced to retire from his most recent job as advertising salesman due to a heart attack. Orvis enjoyed working on his computer as a hobby. He was a member of the Faith Westwood Methodist Church, Omaha, Nebraska. He was also a member of the Villisca V.F.W., American Legion Post 251 and Disabled American Veterans.

Orvis is survived by his wife Carolyn of Omaha, Nebraska; daughters and sons-in-law, Beverly and Robert Boe of Gretna, Nebraska, Brenda and Al Rotella of Omaha, Nebraska, son and daughter-in-law, Jan and Kimberly Wagaman of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; brother, Davis and Sharon Wagaman of Villisca, Iowa; grandchildren, Marc and Molly Miller, Tiffany and John Skokan, Tim Marvin, Nick and Tony Rotella, Austin and Taylor Wagaman; great grandchildren, Meghan and Garrett Miller, Kelsey, Kade, Kiley, and Karson Skokan; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Preceding Orvis in death were his parents; daughter, Barbara Miller; two sisters, Helen Lewis and Lucille Hazelton and three brothers, Fred Wagaman, Harold Wagaman and Charles Robert Wagaman.

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

[108] Walters, Mary L. - Mary L. Walters, age 79, of Red Oak, Iowa passed away
Monday, July 3, 2006 at the Good Samaritan Care Center
after an extended illness. Mary Louise Walters was born
July 11, 1926 in Bedford, Iowa the daughter of Ray and
Mamie (Lantz) Dawson. She was raised in Bedford, Iowa
where she attended school. Mary was united in marriage to
Lee Walters on August 2, 1946 in Hiawatha, Kansas. When
Lee returned from World War II, they moved to Red Oak,
Iowa where they have lived their whole married life. Mary
was a member of the Rebekah Lodge, was a homemaker, and
helped Lee with his electrical business.

Preceding Mary in death were her parents; son: James Lee
Walters in 1976; two sisters: Margaret Dawson and Rosie
Steigleder; and a brother: Joe Dawson. Survivors include
her husband: Lee Walters of Red Oak, Iowa; daughter:
Janet Maynes of Arden Hills, Minnesota; grandchildren: Pat
Maynes and wife Kelly of Red Oak, Iowa; Jill Maynes of
Somerset, New Jersey; and Jeff Walters and wife Betsy of
Kirkwood, Missouri; great grandchildren: Tucker, Grace,
and Libby Walters all of Kirkwood, Missouri and Jarrett and
Carter Maynes of Red Oak, Iowa; many nieces and nephews
and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM Friday, July 7, 2006 at
the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel with Rev. Dr.
George Hooper officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen
Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 7-8
PM Thursday, July 6, 2006 at the Nelson-Boylan-LeRette
Funeral Chapel.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of
arrangements.
[109] Ware, Bill - Funeral Services for Bill Ware, age 88 of Bedford who died Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at the Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center were held Friday, February 24, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford. Interment was held in the Ohio Cemetery in Burlington Junction, Missouri. Memorials can be directed to the Bedford Public Library or the Bedford Senior Center. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

William Wallis Ware was born June 12, 1917 in Burlington Junction, Missouri the son of James Corfield Ware and Carrie Kay (Crane) Ware. He grew up attending school and graduating from the Burlington Junction High School. On December 25, 1938, in a Christmas Day Ceremony, Bill was united in marriage to Dorothy Walton at the Methodist parsonage in Nebraska City, Nebraska.

The couple farmed in the Burlington Junction area for many years. They moved south of Hopkins and farmed there for twenty years, moving to the Bedford area where they farmed until their retirement in 1978. Bill loved to farm, he enjoyed raising cattle, and had a true passion for being a steward of the land. He was very concerned with conservation, and in every instance, left the land he farmed in better condition than when he found it ~ even when he rented land! Bill was one of the first in the area to raise soybeans as a grain crop. After retirement, Bill and Dorothy spent the next several years in the Savannah and St. Joseph area during most of the year. Summer time was spent at Woodland Park, Colorado, which was a special joy for them.

After retirement, Bill worked in real estate and kept ties to agriculture by taking surveys for the government, gardening and helping his brother with the farming operation. He had to "keep his hands in the dirt". Bill and Dorothy were both active in county extension work. Together Bill and Dorothy enjoyed travel, and had experienced wonderful vacations in Europe, England, Alaska, and many points in the United States as well as some winter time in Texas. Of course, their summers in Colorado, escaping the hot, humid Midwest weather were always a treat. Bill loved to play cards, especially with Dorothy, Rickie, Linda, Amy, Diane ~ in other words ~ the women of the family!

Left to cherish Bill's memory are his loving wife of 67 years, Dorothy Ware of Bedford; two sisters, Theodora Meek of College Springs; and Dorothy Derderian of Lake Forrest, Illinois; three children, Dave Ware and wife Rickie of Mountain Home, Idaho; Mick Ware and wife Diane of Bedford; and Linda Ware of Santa Fe, New Mexico; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Preceding Bill in death were his parents; four sisters; three brothers; an infant daughter and one grandchild.

Bill will be missed by many ~ both family and friends. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Bill's passing.
[110] Warne, Dora Dean
Dora Warne, age 70, of Ankeny, Iowa, formerly of Yorktown, Iowa, died Tuesday, August 09, 2005, at Iowa Methodist Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 12, 2005, at Dallas Center Cemetery, near New Market, Iowa with Rev. Dan Wiebesiek officiating. Visitation with the family will be 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Friday at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa. Burial will be in the Dallas Center Cemetery. A memorial will be established. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home is in charge of conventions.

Dora Dean Warne was born March 31, 1935, at Orange, California to William Henry Rice and Dora Dean. She was united in marriage November 11, 1953 at Orange, California to John L. Warne. Dora worked at the New Market Café, the New Market Teen Center and was a nurse aide at the Clarinda Community Care Center. She moved to the Mill Pond Assisted Living Home in Ankeny, Iowa following her husband's death to be near her daughter. Dora especially enjoyed her children and grandchildren.

Dora was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John (1997); sisters, Mary and Dorothy. Survivors include her daughters, Jennifer Warne of Des Moines and Diane Payne of Peru, Nebraska; grandchildren, Danielle Selders, Derek Selders, Josh Selders, and Tori Parris; sister, Wanda Averi of Anaheim, California; and brother, William Rice of Anaheim, California.

 

[111] Watkins, Evelyn, age 76, of Clarinda, Iowa, died Tuesday, June 13, 2006,
at the Clarinda Regional Health Center, Clarinda, Iowa. 
 

Funeral services were held 110:00 a.m. Friday, June 16, 2006 at
Walker-Merrick Funeral Home. Visitation with the family was 7-8 p.m.,
Thursday, June 15, 2006 at the funeral home. Burial was in the Clarinda
Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Westridge Quality Care &
Rehab Center, Clarinda, Iowa. Walker-Merrick Funeral Home was in charge
of arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family
at www.walker-merrick-wolfe-barr.com.

Evelyn Fay Watkins was born February 9, 1930, at Gravity, Iowa to Estle Fay Parks and Vesta Grace (Pace) Parks. She was a graduate of High School. Evelyn was united in marriage February 19, 1952 to Harold Watkins at Clarinda, Iowa. She worked at Lisle Corporation for many years.

Evelyn was owner and operator of Hilda's Gift Shop on the south side of the square. She also worked at J's Pizza & Steakhouse and at the Iowa Job Service Office for several years. Evelyn loved to joke around; tell stories and just have fun at all times. She enjoyed going on Neihart Tours and most recently went to Branson with the tour group. She enjoyed volunteering at Westridge Care & Rehab Center. Evelyn loved going camping with her family.

Preceding Evelyn in death were her parents; husband; and two brothers and four grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: Donald Watkins and wife Liz of Diamond, Missouri, Rhonda McClelland and husband Larry of Glenwood, Iowa, Wanda Farquhar and husband Curtis of Shenandoah, Iowa, Sue Draper and husband Tom of Sutherland, Iowa, Nancy Hatcher and husband Frank of Pensacola, Florida; eight grandchildren; three great grandchildren.

[112] Weaver, Kraig- Funeral services for Kraig Weaver age 48 formerly of the Fort Dodge and Bedford areas, who died Wednesday, December 15, 2004, were held Saturday, December 18, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home with Pastor Ron Elliott officiating. Interment was held in the Bedford City Cemetery. Memorials can be given in his name. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.

Kraig Allen Weaver was born November 11, 1956 in Clarinda, Iowa the son of Delores Jean McCoy Weaver and Francis Allen Weaver. Kraig grew up in the Villisca area until 1968 when he moved with his family to Bedford. Kraig started seventh grade and graduated from the Bedford High School with the Class of 1974. While in school, Kraig was active in the FFA, The Space Program, served as President of the Student Council among other activities. The greatest day of Kraig's life when his daughter, Jessika Lyn, was born on January 11, 1975.

During Kraig's life, he had a variety of jobs: Plumbing for Glen Burroughs; working for NFO, which took him to many different places; and his days of working in Fort Dodge at the Hy-Vee Bakery where he took great pride in inventing new flavors for doughnuts. You see, mixing the right Kool-aids were his secret ingredient! Kraig also worked in the Fort Dodge area for Paramount Furniture. He was a people person who never knew a stranger. People would always comment that "Kraig would always speak to them and that he was a fine, polite young man." He always would tell it like he saw it. Kraig was a man set in his ways and if you were to upset him, he would let you know it. But, just as soon as he would get angry, he would put a smile on his face, letting you know everything was okay. A smile would always appear when he spoke of his daughter and two little grandchildren. In his words, "I just love them so much!"

Kraig enjoyed the outdoors and cattle. You would always know when he came home because he was forever 'talking to the cows and dogs' which in turn would drive his mother and Harold crazy......then we would all laugh! He had many friends of all ages. He was especially fond of little children, always seeming to have a nickname for each of them.

In October of 2003, Kraig suffered a stroke, which in turn led him to Clarinda where he resided the last year of his life. Although many health problems arose for Kraig, you would never hear him complain or feel sorry for himself. He was a strong man who, still in his sickest of days, found a smile, a thank you, and never forgot to say "I Love You" to all that came to see him.

Left to cherish Kraig's memory are his daughter Jessika Sump and husband Dave and their children, Joshua and Adriana Sickles; brothers Norman Weaver and wife Charlene and son Ryan; Curtis Weaver and his sons Jake and Jed; a sister, Renee White and husband Dennis and their children James, and his daughter Sydney White; Ashley White, and Andrea Schuelke and husband Zeb.

Preceding Kraig in death are his parents Delores and Harold Steeve and his father, Francis Weaver.
Kraig will be greatly missed, for if you knew Kraig.....he touched your life in some way.

[113] Webb, Walter B. of Bradenton, Florida died January 25, 2005, at Blake Medical center. Services were held January 28, 2005 Toale Brother, Bradenton Chapel.

Born in Gravity, Iowa, and came to Manatee County from Hilliard, Ohio, 30 years ago, he worked for the department of agriculture in Ohio. Mr. Webb was a Methodist and served in the U.S. Army, Veteran World War II POW in Germany, received Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He was member of Masonic Lodge Sioux City, Iowa and Aladdin Shrine Temple, Columbus, Ohio.

Survivors: daughter, Barbara Schall, Dublin, Ohio; sister, Berniece Bonar, Bedford, Iowa; three grandchildren: and three great-grandchildren.

[114] Weeda, Dixie Lee, 56, Lee's Summit, MO, was welcomed into heaven on February 4, 2006, after a seven year battle with cancer. Visitation was held on February 7 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on February 8 at the funeral home. Burial Greenwood Cemetery in Greenwood, MO.

Dixie was born in February 11, 1949, in Clarinda, Iowa. In 1967 she graduated from Bedford High School in Bedford, Iowa, and married her high school sweetheart Roy Weeda; on September 24.

Dixie was a long-time resident of Greenwood and Lee's Summit. She loved children and provided day care in the home for many years until she began her career with the FBI in 1987, where she remained employed until her death. Dixie was admired and respected by her co-workers and superiors for
her conscientious work ethic and courageous spirit.

Her first priority was her family. She loved spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed flower gardening, traveling, attending NASCAR races, and camping in the RV. Dixie was a blessing and an inspiration to all who knew her, and she will be greatly missed.

She leaves behind husband, Roy weed; son and daughter-in-law, Troy and Jacque Weeda and grandchildren, Dani and Trey; daughter and son-in-law, Kristie and Eric Sapp and granddaughters, Mikhayla and Paige; son and daughter-in-law, Cory and Carrie Weeda and granddaughters, Brianne and
Katelyn (all of Lee's summit); parents, Dick and Jean Beemer; sister and brother-in-law Diane and Scott Sheffield (all of Gravity, Iowa).

Memorial contributions may be given to American Cancer Society Breast Cancer research KC Metro Office 6700 Antioch Rd. Suite 100 Merriam Kansas 66204-12300. Arrangements by Langsford Funeral Home in Lee's Summit, Missouri.

[115] Weeks, Erma

Private family services were held for Erma Weeks, age 88 of
Bedford, who died Friday, November 23, 2007 at the Bedford Nursing &
Rehab. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were
entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
Erma Ruth Jordan Weeks (also known as Me-Me) was born
on May 7, 1919, in Wray, Colorado. She received her education
in Wray. In 1940, she moved to California to a small gold-
mining town, Nevada City, and spent most of her life there
before moving to Bedford, Iowa. She was a resident of the
Bedford Nursing & Rehab Center for most of the last four years.
She loved being in the Pocahontas Lodge and the Rebecca's.
She volunteered for the United Way and worked in the Cancer
gift Shop in Grass Valley, California. She loved working in the
Nevada County Hospital as a dietician for over twenty years.
Being able to run in the waves and along the beaches of the
Pacific Ocean was her passion.
She was always there to give people a helping hand. She fed
the hungry, help to provide a shelter for people in need, and a
smile for the weary. She loved her family and enjoyed all of the
families' pets. She always talked about going to heaven and
seeing Jesus.
Left to cherish her memory are her son, Gary Ryason of
Penryn, California; three daughters and son-in-laws, Sue Ray of
Bedford; Yvonne DeHass and husband Ted of Bedford; and Vivian
Hadley of Truckee, California; nine grandchildren and thirteen
great-grandchildren.

[116] Weese, Mark

Funeral Services for Mark Weese, age 47 of Bedford who
died Saturday, April 28, 2007 in Omaha, Nebraska were held
Friday, May 4, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Life Missionary
Church in Bedford. Interment was held in the Fairview
Cemetery in Bedford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests
memorials be given in Mark's name. Memories can be shared
with the family on our web site at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of
Bedford.

[117] Weese, Mary Michal

Mass of Christian Burial for Mary Weese, age 71, of Lenox who passed away on Monday, August 28, 2006 at the Greater Community Hospital in Creston were held Thursday, August 31, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox.  Interment was held at the North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Please share your memories with the Weese family on our web page, www.ritchiefunralhome.com under Obituaries.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

Mary Ann (Michal) Weese was born April 18, 1935, in Omaha, Nebraska the daughter of Victor Michal and Bernice (Champion) Michal.  

The family moved to a farm near Blockton in 1941.  Mary grew up attending rural schools at Gay No. 8 and graduated from the Blockton High School with the Class of 1953.  After high school, Mary attended college in Maryville for two years.  On June 2, 1956, she was united in marriage to Dean Weese at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox.  After their marriage the couple lived in Lenox where Mary taught school for two years in Prescott.  Mary took a break from teaching to be home with her three children Mike, Mark and Deanna.  Once her children were all in school, Mary returned to Northwest Missouri State University where she obtained her Bachelor's Degree.  She then taught in the Corning School District for twenty-eight years, retiring in 1996.  Mary was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox where she was active in the Alter Society and a Ladies Sorority.  She was also a member of the Arbor Day Foundation.  Mary enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, tending to her flowers and constantly planting trees.  Her true passion was in education.  She wanted each of her children and grandchildren to be educated.  She also enjoyed sewing, cooking and baking with her rolls being 'quite popular'.  Mary was known to have a tremendous sense of humor and a wonderful perspective on life.   She enjoyed supporting the activities of her children and grandchildren.  Left to cherish Mary's memory are her loving husband of 50 years, Dean Weese of Lenox; two sons, Mike Weese and wife Jerolyn of Council Bluffs; and Mark Weese and wife Patty of Bedford; a daughter, Deanna Sweeney and husband Vince of Lenox; two brothers, Jack Michal of LeRoy, Kansas and Dennis Michal and wife Pat of Council Bluffs; and seven grandchildren, Brandon, Benjamin, Victor, Elizabeth, Adam, Tyler and Michal; along with many other family members and friends in the community.Preceding Mary in death were her parents Victor and Bernice Michal; and a brother Robert Michal.

[118] Weihs, Esther Kathe Graeve - Esther Kathe Weihs, the daughter of Henry and Rose (Mueller) Graeve, was born on October 17, 1922, at Earling, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph's Catholic
Church in Earling, Iowa. Esther attended St. Joseph's Catholic School.

On September 26, 1944, Esther was united in marriage to Urban Musich at St Joseph's Catholic Church in Earling. Eight children were born to this union: Bill, Mary, Jane, James, Duane, Ann, Rick, Margaret and Mark. After their marriage, they resided in Earling until 1952, when they moved to Harlan, Iowa. In 1970, the couple moved to Council Bluffs, Iowa.

In 1975, Esther was united in marriage to Franklin Weihs at Council Bluffs, Iowa, where they resided until moving to Harlan, Iowa, in November of 1987, Frank died n September 9, 1994.

Esther was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. She worked in retail sales and at Western Iowa Pork, Hardware Store and was a cook at the Nursing Home and was employed the longest at the nursing home. She enjoyed baking and enjoying her grandchildren.

Esther died on Tuesday, June 27, 2006, at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa, having attained the age of eighty-three years, eight months, and ten days. In addition to her parents, and her husband, Frank, Esther was preceded in death by a daughter, Ann, and her brothers and sisters: Alfons, William, Raymond,
Harry and Charles Graeve, Rita Panke, and Margaret Tedrow.

Survivors include her children: William (Bonnie) Musich Virginia Beach, VA; Mary Jane Orsack of Warren, AK; James Musich and his wife, Kate of Bedford, IA; Duane (Linda) Musich, Harlan, IA; Rick (Theresa) Musich, Gretna, NE; Chuck Nelson of Millard, NE; Mark (Stephanie Musich, Earling, IA;
Step-children: Gary Weihs, Crescent, IA; Linda and her husband, James Foje of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Ron Weihs and his wife, Susan of Crescent, Iowa; Ed Weihs and his wife, Kathe of Council Bluffs, IA; Nancy and her husband, Robert Braunersrither of Council Bluffs, IA: Shirley and her husband, Roger Williams of Osceala, IN: twenty four grandchildren and thirty five great grandchildren; her brothers and sisters: Helen Petsache of Harlan, IA: Veronica Hodapp of Harlan, IA: Irene and her husband, Henry Arkfeld of Panama, IA: Leonard Graeve and his wife, Joyce of Harlan, IA; Al Graeve and his wife, Mick
of Earling, IA: Mary Agnes and her husband, Stanley Korducki of Milwaukee, WI: Leo Graeve and his wife, Joanne of Earling, IA: James Graeve and his wife, Mary Ann of St. Joe, MN: Lawrence Graeve and his wife, Colleen of Sun Prairie, WI: Ruth and her husband, Ray Korducki of Milwaukee, WI; other
relatives and many friends.

Wake service at Pauley Jones Funeral Home Friday, June 30, 2006 and Mass of Christian Burial St. Michael's on Saturday, July 1, 2006 with burial at Harlan Cemetery, Harlan, Iowa.

[119] Whitaker, Lawrence John, was born August 21, 1911 at Sheffield, IA, the son of John Baker and Anastacia Rose (Kobliska) Whitaker. He entered into rest March 7, 2006 at Clarinda Regional Health Center following an extended illness. He was 94 years of age.

Lawrence graduated Bedford High School and pursued an engineering degree at Northwest Missouri Sate University. While in Bedford his family owned the Garland Hotel. Lawrence and his family spent many years returning to Bedford to assist in the operation of the family hotel. On March 13, 1937 at Denver, CO, he married Helen Louise Ramey.

Lawrence served his country during WWII and was honorably discharged from the US Army. His professional career included thirty-three years as an engineer in the U.S. Soil Conservation Service. His other lifelong devotion was to the Catholic Church. He was instrumental in building and the upkeep at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bedford. He remained active in the church until his health failed recently.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen; sister, Ollie Sherby; and brother, Joseph Whitaker. He is survived by his children: Vickie Steele and husband Rod of Omaha, NE; Mike Whitaker of Council Bluffs, IA: and Laurie Fuller and husband Scott of Clearmont, MO: sister, Leona Akeson of Denver, CO; sister-in-law Ruth Whitaker of Bedford, IA: grandchildren: Jim Steele, Chris Steel, Matt Steele, Dawn Pulliam, Kipp Wheatley, Emily Wheatley, Alex Barnett, Allison; Barnet, Justin Fuller and Kristin Fuller; great grandchildren Ben Steele, Kristen Steele, Drew Steele, Noah Steele, Lou Mason, Morgan Pulliam, and Halle Holman; and many other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, March 10, 2006 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with interment at Fairview Cemetery, Bedford. Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart or the Garland Hotel Restoration Fund. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda is in charge of arrangements.

[120] Whitehill - Tom Whitehill, age 53, of O'Neill, Nebraska, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2004 at the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Visitation was held on Wednesday, December 1, 2004 from 3-9 pm at Biglins Mortuary in O'Neill with an 8:00 pm Prayer Service.
Funeral Services were held at 10:30 am on Thursday, December 2, 2004 at the First Presbyterian Church in O'Neill, NE with Pastor Dale Sallans officiating the service with burial in the Grimton Cemetery northeast of O'Neill.
Tom Ives and Terry Dougherty furnished vocal music and pianist was Toni Schneider.
Pallbearers were Justin Young, Tyson Shoemaker, Ryan Ohri, Kevin Ohri, Leroy Littau, and Greg Loutzenhiser. Honorary pallbearers were Melvin and Camille Ohri, Mike and Jeri Jo Shoemaker, Kevin and Deb Homewood, Mauri and Anita Koenig, Ray and Barb Getting, Lowell and Vicky Krieger, Junior and Charlene Young, Crystal Young and Earl Lyddane.
Tom was born to Ed and Dorothy (Mace) Whitehill on November 21, 1951 in Greeley, Colorado. Tom attended grade school in Colorado and attended high school and graduated in 1970 from Bedford High School, Bedford, Iowa. Tom received his Bachelors Degree in Animal Science from Iowa State University in 1974. He was also a graduate of the Oklahoma Farrier School.
On October 2, 1982 Tom married Vicki Linquist at the Linquist Ranch northeast of O'Neill. Tom has ranched for the past 22 years and also was a Regional Sales Representative for the Harvest Brand Inc.
His family and friends will remember Tom for his smile, friendship and his devotion to his wife and children. Tom was gifted with talent in mechanics, welding, building and being a handyman. Tom loved his ranchwork and took pride in his ranch. Tom had a special interest in planting trees and received an award from the Soil Conservation for his trees and fencing. Tom loved to work with young colts. Tom also was an avid sports fan, especially football, whether it was playing or watching. With this same integrity Tom fought his battle with cancer and went quietly to be with the Lord.
Tom was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He served on the Holt County Extension Board and Holt County Zoning Board. He was a member of the O'Neill Summerfest Rodeo Committee, Willow Dale Township Board, District 60 School Board, Page Rural Fire Board and the R-Calf Organization.
Tom leaves to mourn his wife, Vicki of O'Neill; daughter, Kylee at home; son, Zach and his wife Brandy of Tucson, Arizona and granddaughter, Justice, also of Tucson; his mother, Dorothy Whitehill and grandmother, Ida Whitehill both of Clarinda, Iowa; sister, Ginny Conner and her husband, Doug of Malvern, Iowa; his mother-in-law, Elda Mae Linquist of ONeill, sister-in-law, Bev Ritts and husband, Ed of O'Neill; brother in law, Don Linquist and wife, Charlotte of O'Neill, nieces and nephews.
His father preceded Tom in death.
[121] Wiley - Beulah Eathel Hoffman, 99, of Bedford, Iowa, died Thursday, December 16, 2004, at the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center, Bedford ,IA, where she had been a resident for the past seven years. Beulah was born December 25, 1904, in Taylor County, Iowa, the daughter of Frank Elmer Diggs and Alta Jane Hoffman. She was the second of ten children and would have celebrated her 100 birthday on December 25th. Beulah married Loran Lewis Wiley on February 1, 1922, in Clarinda, Iowa, Loran preceded her in death on December 2, 1986. They farmed for several years in Adams County, Iowa, then moved to Texas in 1944, later Rialto, California, and then returned to farming around Gravity, IA.
Beulah had worked as a motel housekeeper in San Bernardino, CA and a farm wife in Iowa. Beulah's hobbies were quilting, cooking, gardening and spending time with family and friends.
Beulah is survived by her children: Robert Wiley and wife Lela of Basehor, KS, Donald Wiley and wife Elizabeth of Basehor, KS Shirley Biel of Rialto, CA. Clifford Wiley and wife Patty, of Rosburg, WA, and Kathryn Webb and husband Dick of Elk Grove, CA. Twenty grandchildren, thirty three great grandchildren and twenty four great great grandchildren, brothers Harley Diggs of Clarinda, IA, and Frances Diggs and wife Rita of Clarinda, IA, sister Elzene Diggs of Clarinda, IA.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Harold, five sisters Zella Wiley, Lela Wirth, Elma Schooling, Stella Nickell and Lavon Dugan, one brother Hildred Diggs.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23, 2004 at the United Methodist Church in Nodaway, IA. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Guss, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Bedford Nursing and Rehab Center or the Nodaway Methodist Church. Wolfe Funeral Home in Villisca are in charge of the arrangements.

[122] Williams, Bertha

Funeral services for Bertha Williams, age 96, of Lenox, who died Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at the Lenox Care Center were held Saturday, June 2, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at the Lenox Christian Church. Interment will be held at North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials can be given in Bertha's name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Lenox.

[123] Williams, Leona

Funeral Services for Leona Williams, age 84 of Athelstan
who died Tuesday, February 27, 2007 at the Mount Ayr
Health Care Center were held Saturday, March 3, 2007 at
2:00 p.m. at the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford.
Interment was held in the Athelstan Cemetery. Memorials
can be given in Leona's Name. Memories can be shared
with the family on our web site at
www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home
of Bedford.

[124] Wirth, Virginia Maxine Walters

Virginia Maxine Wirth, daughter of Albert Ross Walters and Estella (Fulk) Walters was born May 1, 1925 in Page County, Iowa and passed from this life October 9, 2007 at Osceola Nursing & Rehab at 82 years of age. Virginia received her education at the Mt. Joy Schools and graduated from Clarinda High School. She was united in marriage to Paul Everett Wirth on November 14, 1942 in St. Louis, MO, and four children blessed this union.

[125] Wise, Kenneth Michael, age 57, of rural Villisca passed away on Wednesday evening, May 25, 2005 at his residence following a brief illness. He was born May 19, 1948 in Maryville, Missouri, the son of Ralph Shelby and Edna Mae (Abbey) Wise.
The majority of his childhood was spent on the family farm near Siam, Iowa, in Taylor County. Kenneth graduated from Bedford High School in 1966. He furthered his education at Iowa Western Community College and at Northwest Missouri State University.
He was married to Jacqueline Lynn Simmons, and they had a son, Michael Todd Wise. Kenneth started with the Red Oak Fire Department in October of 1970 and retired in September of 1985. During this time, he served in the capacity of Firefighter, 1st Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief and Fire Chief. He was last employed at the Clarinda Academy as a youth counselor.
On November 6, 1982, he was married to Diana Lynne Arthur in Red Oak, Iowa, and they resided outside of Villisca near Viking Lake. At this time, Kenneth became a father to David and Katina. His hobbies included hunting, his gun business, fishing and gardening.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife Diana of the home; children, Mike Wise and his wife Diane of Red Oak, IA, David Stalder of Yorktown, IA, Katina Antonucci and her husband Glenn of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Chavis, Colby and Colin Wise, Netosha and Tory Stalder, Laura Brown and Emily Antonucci; brother, Philip Wise and his wife Chris of Keokuk, IA; nephew, Todd Wise of Keokuk, IA; father-in-law and mother-in law, Arnold Sump and Dorothy Arthur of Clarinda, IA, along with other relatives and friends.
Memorial services were held Saturday, May 28, 2005 at First United Methodist Church in Red Oak with Rev Nancy Schultz officiating. Burial at Summit Cemetery, Yorktown, Ia. A memorial fund is being established in Kenneth's name. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel of Clarinda is in charge of arrangements.

 

[126] Wiseman, Hazel Sharr.

Funeral Services for Hazel Wiseman, age 86 of Bedford who died Monday, January 30, 2006 at Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning were held Thursday, February 2, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at
the Ritchie Funeral Home in Bedford.

Interment was held in the Hopkins Cemetery in Hopkins, Missouri. Memorials can be directed
to the cemetery or to hospice.

Hazel Marie (Sharr) Wiseman was born December 29, 1919, in Pickering, Missouri the
daughter of Ira Manford Sharr and Elsie Lorene Treese Sharr. She grew up in the Pickering area
attending school. On May 18, 1937 she was united in marriage to Leland Wiseman in
Maryville, Missouri. They were blessed with the birth of a son Larry and daughter Marilyn.

Hazel and Leland lived in the Hopkins area, and because of Hazel's asthma problems, the family
moved to California in the mid 1950's, returning to Hopkins in the early 1960's. Hazel
worked for St. Joe Light & Power Company for many years and later worked as a bookkeeper
for St. Francis Hospital in Maryville and also for the Allison Ford Motor Company. In 1982,
after retirement she and Leland moved to Bedford where she helped her son Larry for a
few years at Wiseman Furniture.

The couple loved to dance to country music, and they enjoyed attending the local dances in
the area on the weekends as often as possible. Hazel enjoyed quilting and doing embroidery
on tea towels. She was an excellent cook specializing in fried chicken and homemade
chicken and noodles. She was active when her children were younger, supporting them in their
activities which included horse shows, parades and trail rides. She was a member of the
Primitive Baptist Church in Orrsburg, Missouri.

Left to cherish Hazel's memory are her loving husband of 67 years, Leland Wiseman of
Bedford; a son Larry Wiseman and wife Sharon of Bedford; a daughter, Marilyn Oxley and
husband Carroll of Clarinda; four grandchildren, Rick and Randy Sheley, Jeff Wiseman and Gayle Wiseman (Christensen) eight great-grandchildren, Jamie, Megan, Josh, Seth, Erica, Tyler, Leslie and Seth; and two great-great grandchildren, Adrian and Peyton.

Preceding Hazel in death are her parents Ira and Elsie Sharr; three brothers, Earl Sharr, Dick
(Ernest) Sharr and Wilbur Sharr; and a sister Gracie McHargue.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn Hazel's passing.

[127] Woods, Verna Maxine Stephenson, 81, Maryville, MO, formerly of Hopkins, MO and Bedford, IA, died Sunday, June 12, 2005, at Village Care Center in Maryville, MO.

She was born march 27, 1924 in Gentry, MO to the late Seth and Ethel (Cruchelow) Stephenson.

She was a member of Stanberry Methodist Church.

Mrs. Woods was preceded in death by her parents; son, William Curtis Woods; daughter, Carolyn Hasenfratz; grandchildren: Lisa Glidden Angela Woods; great-granddaughter Candace Wilcox; and
brother, Oren Wayne Stephenson.

Survivors area 2 daughters: Nancy Curtis, Savannah, MO; and Ethel Glidden, Clarinda, IA; 6 sons: Russell, Corning, IA; Lloyd and Charles, Hopkins, MO; Earl, Maryville, MO; Garry, Hamburg, IA; and Larry, Clarinda IA; 2 sisters: Hazel Leeder, Savannah, MO; and Carroll Hager, Longmont, Colorado; brother: Raymond Stephenson, Albany, MO; thirty eight grandchildren and fifty four great-grandchildren.

Funeral Service were held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2005 Price Funeral Home Chapel, Maryville, MO. burial at High Ridge Cemetery Stanberry, MO. Memorials may be sent to SSM Hospice of Northwest Missouri or American Diabetes Association.

[128] Woodward, Wayne E. "Woody"
Wayne E. "Woody" Woodward, 77, of Council Bluffs, Iowa
passed away February 15, 2007 at Mercy Hospital.

[129] Woolley, Mildred Brunotte

Funeral services for Mildred Woolley, age 93, of Lenox,
who died Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at the Lenox Care
Center were held Saturday, August 20, 2005 at 3:00 p.m.
at the United Presbyterian Church.  Interment will be
held at North Fairview Cemetery in Lenox.  Memorials
can be directed to the Lenox Ambulance Service.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral
Home of Lenox.

Mildred Virgene Brunotte Woolley was born in Leon,
Iowa on December 1, 1911, the daughter of Gustav
Brunotte and Bessie (Stanford) Brunotte.  She grew up in
the Leon area and graduated from the Leon High School
with the Class of 1931.  On August 14, 1932, she was
united in marriage to Delbert Woolley.  To this union
four children were born.  The family moved to Lenox,
Iowa in 1947, where she was employed by Lenox area
businesses until 1984, when she retired and made a home
at Sunrise Apartments.  At the age of 85, she entered the
Lenox Care Center. 

Mildred enjoyed traveling, playing cards, eating out with
friends and especially spending time with her family. 
Her family was her life and she was active in their lives
and committed to each of them.  She truly enjoyed her
grandchildren and always loved to entertain them.

Left to cherish Mildred's memory are her two daughters,
Wanda Wurster and husband Ron of Lenox; and Susy
Brokaw and husband Frank of South Bend, Indiana; a
son, Fred Woolley and wife Linda of Glenwood, Iowa;
sixteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren.

Mildred is preceded in death by her parents; her husband;
a brother Gerald Brunotte; a sister Nadene Reynolds; a
daughter Donna Paul; and an infant granddaughter Amy
Lee Wurster.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn
Mildred's passing.

[130] Wright, Lee W., passed away peacefully on Monday, April 18, 2005 after suffering a debilitating stroke in July 1995. He was born on November 6, 1918 in Bedford, Iowa the sixth of ten children to David
Bennett "Ben" and Florence (Bullock) Wright.

Lee joined the US Navy, serving on the USS Spica, USS St. Paul, during the Pacific Theatre of WWII. Lee moved to Dallas, Ore. in 1948 first working as a taxi driver, then for Standard/Chevron. He later owned and operated the Mobil Station on the corner of Church Street and Washington Street, "Lee's Auto Service, expanding the business to North Dallas in 1965. He retires in 1986. Lee was a member of Rotary
and the Odd Fellows serving as lodge secretary for several years. He enjoyed gardening, pinochle, and traveling.

Lee is survived by his wife, Alvina of Salem; children, Stuart and Marilyn  Wright, Sharon and Wayne Embree. Steven and Pricilla Wright, and Craig Wright; step children, Rosalie and Merle Neufeld, Kenton
Burbank, Benson and Jeanne Burbank, and Elana Burbank; sister, Mildred (Dean) Nelson; brother, Cecil (Verla) Wright; grandchildren, Holli, David, Megan, Brian, Matthew, Adam, and Justin; step-grandchildren, Jenell, Lori, Shelly, Ryan, Mitchell, Hailey, Emma, and Kylee; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. at Dallas Mortuary Tribute Center with internment following at Dallas Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the American Heart association or American diabetes Association in care of the funeral home.

[131] Wallace, Kent Gregory - Funeral Services for Kent Wallace of Gravity and lifelong resident of Taylor County were held August 10 at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bedford with Pastor Stanley Pedersen of Indianola officiating at the services assisted by Pastor Ross Keyt of Gravity.

Kent Gregory Wallace, son of Robert and Amanda Wallace, was born west of Gravity, Ia., on September 19, 1888, and died in the Corning Hopsital on August 7, 1976, at the age of 87.

After attending school at Ladoga he went to high school and college at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska.

On September 16, 1914, he was married to Hazel Chandler and the couple engaged in farming and lived within the same square mile for over 61 years. At the time of his death the couple were still living in the same house in which they were married.

Two sons are living in the area, Sterling, a medical technologist and Gordon, a dentist. Both, in recent years, moved back to Iowa from Colorado and practice their professions at the Clarinda Mental Health Institute as well as operating the home farm.

Four grandchildren survived their grandfather, Gregory Kent, Debra Lou, Earl Mark and Gordon Joel Wallace.

A sister, Vera Nethery, preceded him in death.

One niece and one nephew also survive: Genevieve Dinger of Burbank, California, and Wallace Nethery of Los Angeles, Calif., who was a pallbearer at the funeral.

He has been a member of the Seventh-day Adventist church all his life and belongs to the local Bedford congregation.

Kent Wallace enjoyed a long, useful and active life and thoroughly enjoyed the rural area where he spent his entire life.

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Aug 12, 1976

[132] Wallace, Hazel Chandler - Funeral services for Mrs Kent (Hazel) Wallace, 90, of Gravity, Iowa, held March 19 in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bedford, were officiated by Rev Ross Keyt and Pastor Peter Dible. Mrs Wallace died March 17, 1983 in Rosary Hospital, Corning, Iowa. Interment was at Washington cemetery, Gravity, Ia.

Hazel Chandler Wallace, daughter of Leslie and Lou Chandler, was born southwest of Gravity, Iowa on August 7, 1892.

After attending the Hickory Grove Country School, she later graduated from the Bedford High School. On September 16, 1914 she was married to Kent Gregory Wallace and the couple engaged in farming, living in the same square mile all of their 61 years of marriage. She was preceded in death by her husband on August 7, 1976.

The first born son died soon after birth. Two other sons survive, Gordon, a dentist, and Sterling, a Medical Technologist. Both moved back to Iowa from Colorado a number of years ago so they could be near their parents during their final years of life. They live on the home farm with their wives, Leta and Marilyn, and actively continue its operation. Four grandchildren also survive, Gregory Kent, Debra Lou, Earl Mark and Gordon Joel. Also, there are two great grandchildren, Tara and Byran Wallace. One sister, Ruth Carson, preceded her in death.

Hazel was a long time member of the Seventh-day Adventist church, being a member of the Ladoga Church and a charter member of the Bedford church.

She enjoyed a long, active life and was an original member of the Wild Rose Neighborhood Club. Also, she was a long time member of the Gravity Study Club.

She enjoyed the blessings of many friends. Throughout all her life she was a firm believer in the Bible Promises and is now resting in sleep awaiting the Resurrection Dayl

Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Mar 24, 1983

[133] Woldruff, Maye Hankins Parsons -

MAYE PARSONS WOLDRUFF - Maye (Parsons) Woldruff, age 90 of Clarinda, Iowa, formerly of New Market, Iowa, died Wednesday, December 18, 2002, at Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2002 at Walker-Merrick Funeral Home, Clarinda, Iowa with Rev. Walden Paige officiating. Burial was at Memory Cemetery, New Market, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Shambaugh Methodist Church or Goldenrod Manor, Clarinda, Iowa.
Maye Lucille Parsons Woldruff was born March 29, 1912, in Mason Township, Taylor County, Iowa, one mile south of New Market, Iowa to James Hankins and Effie Bunker Hankins. Maye graduated from New Market High School in 1931.  She was united in marriage January 15, 1934, at Maryville, Missouri, to Merle Robert Parsons who preceded her in death November 1978. She was united in marriage May 29, 1987, to George Woldruff who also preceded her in death June 1994. Maye and Merle owned and operated a grocery store in New Market, Iowa, 1948-1969 and sold the store in 1969 because of poor health. Maye loved to play piano. She was a member of the Methodist Church.

Preceding Maye in death were her parents; husbands; brother, Kenneth J. Hankins; sisters, Arlene Hanson and Helen Martin. Survivors include her sons, Donald R. Parson and wife, Sue of Norwalk, and Richard L. Parsons and wife, Jean of New Market, four grandchildren; four great grandchildren; five step-children; ten step grandchildren and several step great grand-
children; sister-in-law, Reginal Hankins of Norwalk and brother-in-law, Albert H. Martin of Tempe, Arizona; several nieces and nephews. [Bedford Times-Press, Bedford, Iowa, Dec 25, 2002]
[134] Weir, Harriet "Louise" -
Harriet “Louise” Weir, age 89, daughter of Emmett Lloyd and Opal Marie Hunter Osburn, was born on the family farm in Clayton Township, Taylor County, IA on September 29, 1920. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband and son in Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, IA. Memorials may be directed the Taylor County Museum.
Growing up on the family farm, Louise was a “Tomboy”, helping her Dad with the cattle chores, mowing and raking hay and cultivating corn with a team of horses and one-row cultivator, by the time she was 10 years old, milking the family cows, being “water boy” for the threshing crew, and the many other chores associated with farm life, She was active in both Boys’ and Girls” 4-H, showing steers at the County and State Fair; also being on the Blue Ribbon Girls’ demonstration team from Taylor County at the Iowa State Fair in 1937, showing how to recane the old dining room chairs (many gathering dust in attics). Their finished product was a chair brought from PA to IA in 1853 by her great grandparents.
Her schooling was at Willow Street (Clayton #8) through the 8th grade, then graduating from Bedford High School in 1937, where she was on the Honor Roll and a member of the National Honor Society. She worked in the School Library and in Supt. LaMar’s office her Junior and Senior years.
It was during her Freshman year that Louise and her future husband had their first date. After graduation, she and the Love of Her Life, Guy Thomas Weir, were married November 22, 1937 in the Baptist Parsonage, Mount Ayr, IA, by Rev. Thos. H. Boggess. To this loving union, four children were born: Thomas Lowell, Eldon Lee, Donald Leslie and Joyce Marie.
Their first five years was spent on a rented farm in Jackson Township, before buying their own farm in Jackson Township, which needed much TLC. Working together with their young children, they picked up rocks and built fence while raising chickens, hogs and cattle. Every Conservation Practice possible was used besides repairing, remodeling or building new every building on the farm; they even built a new house. “Weiridge Angus Farm” was established as their family grew up, selling many steers, bulls and heifers to 4-H members, as well as in local and State Angus Sales.
It was during those early years that their youngest son, Donald, became ill with Polio and complications, requiring much care and many trips to doctors and hospitals, before he passed away in 1952 at ten years of age.
Besides being a dedicated, busy farmer’s “tomboy” Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, Louise was also interested in her community. She served as 4-H Leader for 15 years (each girl was treated as her own daughter), was a member of the Union Country Club, the UK Club, the Friendship Club, the Baptist Ladies, and was active in the local and Iowa State Angus Auxiliaries. She served in all capacities as a State officer, and in 1973, was serving as President of the Iowa Auxiliary when Iowa hosted the National Angus Auxiliary in Chicago.
Louise and Guy were Lifetime Members of the Taylor County Historical Society, volunteering their time and helping with repairs at the Museum. When time allowed, they enjoyed searching for genealogy records. Together they repaired and refinished antique furniture.
In 1977, after their doctor advised they slow down, they sold their larger farm and livestock, moved to a smaller farm where they could continue the country life, Guy could continue his custom baling and the grandchildren could spend their vacations on the farm. They lived all their lives in either Jackson or Clayton Township, before moving into Bedford in 1995, never having lived more than six miles from where either was born and raised.
Louise’s hands were seldom idle. She always raised a large garden, canning or freezing many containers of produce, mowed the lawn, helped with the livestock chores, or with field work; she was always that “tomboy” of her youth. She made many of her and her daughter’s dresses, patched many pair of overalls and jeans (no one went to school or to the field with a hole in their knee), and darned many pairs of socks, which were more like a decoration than a repair. She enjoyed all kinds of needlework--regular embroidery, Needlepoint, Crewel, Latchhook and Counted Cross Stitch; she seldom sat down without something handy to work on. With her husband’s help, many samplers were framed and given as gifts.
Louise passed away February 18, 2010 at her home in Bedford, Iowa.
Preceding Louise in death were her companion of 63 years, Guy Thomas Weir; son, Donald Weir; parents, Emmett and Opal Osburn; all her siblings: 3 brothers, Paul Osburn, Loyd Osburn, an infant brother, Horace
Osburn, and sister, Anita Russell. Also her parents-in-law, Samuel and Olive Weir; sisters-in-law, Irene Henry, Esther Osburn and Shirley Weir; brothers-in-law, Hubert Henry, HK Russell, J.T. Weir and John Colyn.
Her family will treasure their memories of Louise with a Legacy of love that will be cherished and shared by her children: Lowell and Annette Weir, Des Moines, IA; Lee Weir, St. Louis, MO; Joyce and Randy Weiss, Council Bluffs, IA; 8 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law Joanne Osburn, Bedford, IA and Alice Colyn, Sabetha, KS; nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, February 26, 2010 at Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel-Bedford with Rev. Ted DeHass officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services. A luncheon for all will follow. Memorials are suggested to the Taylor County Museum. Eickemeyer Funeral Chapel www.EFC.cc