Recent Obituaries

Aili Mu

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 14:50:39 -0600

Professor Aili Mu

(March 21, 1958–December 7, 2025)

Aili Mu, 67, Professor Emerita of World Languages and Cultures at Iowa State University, passed away on December 7, 2025. Aili was born in Beijing and grew up in Shandong Province, China—the homeland of Confucius. Her life and career bridged China and the USA. After completing her B.A. (1982) and M.A. (1985) in English at Shandong University, she taught at China Foreign Affairs University (1985–1989). She later moved to the United States to pursue her Ph.D. in Comparative Literature at SUNY Stony Brook, which she completed in 1996. Aili joined the faculty at Iowa State University in 2001 after teaching at Vassar College. Over the next twenty-five years, she made Ames her home.

Aili singlehandedly established the Chinese Studies Program at ISU. In addition to developing the Chinese curriculum, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to teaching. She taught Chinese language courses at all levels, as well as classes on Chinese film, literature, cultural traditions, translation, and contemporary China. She also organized numerous extracurricular cultural activities, lectures, and events to enrich student learning. Seeking to bring together the best values of Chinese and American culture, she infused passion and love into her work. Her genuine care for the intellectual and personal growth of her students earned their lasting admiration; many remained in close contact with her long after graduation.

Aili was also a dedicated scholar, developing her research in close dialogue with her teaching. She published extensively in both English and Chinese on Chinese aesthetics, literature and culture, translation studies, calligraphy, instructional technology, and pedagogy. In addition to numerous journal articles, she authored two refereed books with Columbia University Press: Loud Sparrows: Contemporary Chinese Short-Shorts (2006) and Contemporary Chinese Short-Short Stories: A Parallel Text (2017). The latter earned her the 2018 Franklin R. Buchanan Prize from the Association for Asian Studies. Aili received both a National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship (2004) and a Fulbright Scholar Research Grant (2007).

Aili was the youngest of three siblings. She is survived by her husband, her elder sister, elder brother and her nephews and nieces. Beyond her family, Aili’s profound knowledge, sincerity, and humility earned her lasting friendships near and far. A loving person, she delighted in exchanging thoughts and ideas, taking long walks in nature, sharing life stories, cooking and dining, gardening, and the arts. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Patricia Stonehocker

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:45:32 -0600

Patricia Ann Stonehocker, 78, of Jewell passed away on November 20, 2025 at Bethany Life in Story City. No services are planned.

Patricia was born in June 10, 1947 in Bethany, Missouri to Dallas and Marian (Blake) Howes. She worked for CDS Global as a clerk for many years. Patricia moved to Jewell about 8 years ago before failing health forced her to go Bethany Life in Story City. She enjoyed crocheting and reading; but she really loved her family and her grandchildren.

Patricia is survived by her children, Melissa Stouffer of Stratford, IA, Suzanne Hupp, Amy Lynn Hupp and Dustin Stonehocker all of Des Moines; 10 grandchildren, Tiffany, Tabitha, Anthony, Ashlynn, Morgan, Tristin, Camryn, Jessica, Darcy and Madison; three great grandchildren, Aya, Hudson and Olivia; a brother, Jerry and two sisters, Sandy and Barb.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Ronnie and Dennis.

Larry Overturf

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 14:13:54 -0600

Larry Leo “Coach O” Overturf, affectionately known to many as the “Old Goat,” passed away

peacefully on November 28, 2025, in Ames, Iowa, at the age of 86 after battling cancer. Born

on January 11, 1939, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Larry lived a life rich with purpose, passion, and

personality.

Larry’s journey began in the heart of Iowa and led him to Northeast Missouri State Teachers

College in Kirksville, Missouri, where he earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of

Administration degrees. He was an avid golfer, lettering on both his high school and college

teams, and continuing to play for decades. His love for learning and teaching shaped the early

part of his career as a dedicated science teacher and high school boys’ basketball coach. For

nearly two decades, Coach O inspired countless students with his knowledge and enthusiasm,

many of whom remained in touch long after graduation.

True to his entrepreneurial spirit, Larry transitioned from teaching into the world of business

with determination and dedication. Over the course of four decades, he immersed himself in

antiques and collectibles, including traveling across Europe to import unique treasures. His

ventures included Ray Jeweler’s in Quincy IL; The Gem Shoppe in Jacksonville IL; and a trio of

businesses in Springfield, IL: Springfield Antique Mall, the Blue Pelican Antique Mall, and

Springfield Jewelry. He also owned Petland in Burlington IA, and the Eight-Wheeler Roller Rink

in Jacksonville IL. Whether dealing in jewelry, coins, baseball cards, or roller skates, Larry

brought passion and personality to every enterprise.

Even during his final days in the hospital, Larry remained dedicated to his craft—making calls

and closing deals with the same enthusiasm that had defined his life’s work. For those who

knew him well, this came as no surprise. His passion for “the hunt” never faded.

On September 9, 2014, Larry married his late-in-life soul mate, Frances “Fran” Overturf. In

their eleven years together, they embraced every season with joy and adventure. Winters

found them enjoying the sunshine of Nevada and Arizona, where their jewelry show booth

became a welcoming stop for returning friends and customers. Larry and Fran were also

devoted fans of Iowa Hawkeye and Cyclone basketball, and they never missed a game. Fran

cheered and Larry armchair-coached like it was his calling. Tuesdays were sacred: dinner in

Altoona, country music dancing, and trying their luck at video poker. It wasn’t about the

winnings. It was about being side by side.

Larry’s love for music was ever-present. He found joy in the voices of Elvis Presley and Patsy

Cline and cherished singing alongside his beloved wife Frances. Together they shared not only

songs but also faith as devoted attendees of Heartland Baptist Church. Old-school gospel

music always lifted Larry’s spirits and brought him peace (and His Truth Is Marching On).

He was a man who never met a stranger. A teller of tales with a twinkle in his eye, Larry had a

story ready for anyone willing to listen. When asked how he was doing, his signature reply,

“Ornery!” was always delivered with a grin that made you feel like you were part of something

special. Larry approached everything he did with curiosity and fun, but perhaps what defined

him most was the joy he brought to others through humor and storytelling. Whether peering

up from behind his jeweler’s loupe or spinning one of his legendary “teawaddies,” (yarns),

Larry left an impression that will not fade.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife Frances Overturf; daughters Lana Overturf-Haubrich, Kristi

Stutt (Rick); stepson Kenny Graham (Melodee); stepson Warren Graham (Chrissy);

stepdaughter Melanie Stall (Brian); eleven grandchildren Shannon Sceallan (Senan), Luke

Haubrich (Jeanne), Ben Haubrich, Ella Haubrich, Chrystal Vargason (Jon), Brandee Thompson

(Eric, deceased), Brandon Graham, Preston Graham, Blake Graham (partner, Abby), Patrick

Stall (Jade Suganuma) and Stephanie Farenik (Micah); fifteen great-grandchildren Laela

Haubrich, Calvin Haubrich, Heather Haubrich, Elise Haubrich, and Owen Haubrich, Daunte

Thompson (partner, Cameron), Dezerae Thompson, Destinee Thompson, Landon Graham,

Cameron Vargason, Carson Vargason, Viveanah Graham, Awesome Young, Kyleigh Graham,

and baby Eleanor Farenik (due Jan 2026); and one great-great granddaughter Eleka Thompson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delmer and Mamie (Doll) Overturf, and his brother,

Carroll G. Overturf.

Larry’s legacy lives on through the laughter he sparked, the lessons he taught both on the

court and off it, and the enduring love he shared with family and friends alike. It is safe to say

that he and his brother are already gathering gemstones along the streets of gold…for their

next big auction.

Thank you for teaching us to focus on the fundamentals, Coach O. You are forever in our

hearts. ♥

Shirley Kuiper

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 20:43:18 -0600

Shirley Ann Kuiper was born to Sam and Allie (Schuiteman) Schut on January 9, 1938 in Sioux Center, IA. She graduated from Sioux Center High School in 1955 and received her teacher’s training at Northwestern College in Orange City, IA.

On June 20, 1957 Shirley was united in marriage to Glendon W. Kuiper. The couple settled in Sioux Falls, SD where she taught elementary school while he attended Augustana College. Upon Glen’s graduation they moved to Harlan, IA where he accepted a High School teaching position and where Kean Gerome and Lynn Suzanne, their first two children were born. Shirley tutored students at home during this time while caring for their children.

In 1963, they moved to Ames, IA where Shirley continued her education and tutoring. Glen’s work with Iowa State University then took them to Dubuque, IA where their third child, Mark Gregory, was born and she worked as assistant district manager for a sales company. They then moved to Cedar Falls until he retired in 1998. The next ten years they made their home near Kansas City while continuing the traveling they both enjoyed. After that they settled in Ames near most of their family.

Shirley was active in church; serving as deacon, elder, and other positions. Her voice brought joy to many, beginning in early years, through college as choir soloist and through her later years. Throughout her adult life she volunteered in a number of ways including community Bible study leader, crisis pregnancy counselor, marriage mentor, senior care musician, crocheting blankets for nursing homes and teaching English as a second language.

Prayer was a priority in Shirley’s life. She was an avid reader and was admired for her creativity and homemaking skills. Beginning in her youth, sewing was always a part of her life. Her family gave her much happiness.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 68 years, Glen Kuiper of Ames; her son and daughter-in-law, Kean and Rhonda Kuiper of Round Rock, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Lynn and Brad Heemstra of Ames; son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Shonda Kuiper of Holland, IA. Her seven grandchildren: Christopher (Lyndee) Heemstra, Allie (Jonathan) Jones, Megan (Eric) Shupe, Derek Kuiper, Aaron (Kaitlyn) Kuiper, Joshua (Olivia) Kuiper, and Caleb (Elise) Kuiper. Great grandchildren: Eleazar, Elizabeth and Keith Heemstra; Hayden and Carolyn Jones; Everett and Archer Shupe; and Evelyn Kuiper. Shirley is also survived by a sister-in-law, Glenda Schut of Rapid City, SD; sister-in-law, Judene Stallinga of Sioux Falls, SD and several nieces and nephews.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, an infant grandson, Ethan Kuiper, and her brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Gladys Schut and brother Glen Schut.

The family wishes to thank the Independence Village staff and St. Croix Hospice for their excellent care.

Visitation will be Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Avenue, Ames. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at Christ Community Church, 5501 George Washington Carver Avenue, Ames, with Pastor Kyle Bartholic officiating. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on Shirley's Tribute Wall on the Adams Funeral Home website.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be given to Christ Community Church – Missions, 5501 George Washington Carver Ave, Ames, IA 50010.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Adams Funeral Home.

Rosemary Hake

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:45:24 -0600

Rosemary Hake, age 84, of Ankeny, passed away at her home on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, December 8 beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Avenue in Ames.

Rosemary Sue Hake, the daughter of Donald and Vivian (Dodd) Loftus was born on November 29, 1940, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. She graduated from Gilmore High School.

Rosemary will be remembered for her quick wit, bold personality, owning a room, and most of all, the love she had for her grand and great grandchildren. You never had to wonder what Rosemary was thinking. She shot it to you straight whether you were ready for it or not, but somehow, that honesty was always recognized as coming from a place of love. Rosemary took to social media at its earliest conception starting with Yahoo Game Rooms in the late 1990’s. At one point holding the title of the #1 Euchre player in the World! She would later use various platforms to keep up with her family’s adventures and sporting events. Exploring boutique grocery stores, trying new restaurants, and attending Musicals were also some of her favorite activities. She never missed a chance to see Les Misérables on stage or discover a new snack at a place like Gateway Market in Des Moines or Lunds and Byerly’s in the Twin Cities.

Rosemary is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard Hake; daughter, Laura Garman; brothers, Donald Loftus (Donny), Michael Loftus, Thomas Loftus, James (Jimmy) Loftus and sister, Christine Brock-Henning. She is survived by her four children; Brett Garman of Ankeny; Michelle (Todd) McKinney of Ankeny, Todd Garman of Atlanta, Georgia and Michael (Jaci) Hake of Ankeny; sisters, Joan (Bud) Wiuff of Cedar Falls, IA, Trish (Larry) Fevold of Shell Knob, MO, Kathryn Tulk (Glenn) of West Palm Beach, FL; two brothers, Brian (Julie) Loftus of Blain, MN, Steve Loftus of Ankeny, and sister-in-law Patricia Loftus of Colorado Springs, Co; six grandchildren, Kara (Adam) Waldorf of Humboldt, Kalvin (Tessa) Johnson of West Des Moines, Sara Garman of New York, New York, Keaton (Avery) McKinney of West Des Moines, Bodhi Hake, Sophie Hake and seven great-grandchildren.

Online condolences can be left for Rosemarys family at www.adamssoderstrum.com

Adams Funeral Home has been entrusted with Rosemary’s arrangements.

Thomas Budnik

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:12:28 -0600

Thomas Budnik, age 87, of Ames, passed away November 25, 2025 at Mary Greeley Medical Center.

Services are pending at this time.

Josephine Netcott

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:07:22 -0600

Josephine R. Netcott passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 95, at Mercy One Hospital in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Josephine was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on September 11, 1930, to Charles and Ruth (James) Raines.

She is survived by her daughters Nanette Kane and Jenny Flaherty; one son, Steven Netcott, as well as many other family members and friends.

Josephine will be laid to rest on December 2, 2025, next to her husband, Irvin.

Lucinda Anderson

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:04:36 -0600

Lucinda Jane Anderson, age 73, passed away on November 22, 2025, at Israel House in Ames, Iowa.

Cindy was born on April 6, 1952, in Boone, Iowa, to Kenneth and Shirley (Bergman) Iles. She married David Anderson on March 30, 1974, in Stratford, Iowa. Cindy worked for Sundstrand and Danfoss for 38 years.

She is survived by her husband David Anderson, children Rochelle (Shelley) Anderson and Kenton Anderson, grandchild Deklan Anderson, and sister Diana M. Iles Simpson.

As per her request, Cindy is to be cremated, and no services are scheduled at this time.

Lucille Bang

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 11:45:12 -0600

Lucille “Lucy” Grace Bang, daughter of Micah and Abbie Bang, was born at 4:08 PM on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, and had already gone to be with the Lord. She was 14 inches long and weighed 2 pounds, 0.5 ounces. She was absolutely beautiful.

Lucy Grace is dearly missed on earth by her Mama & Dada, big brother Ezra (who loved to give her big, sloppy wet kisses through Mama’s belly and many loving pats of varying gentleness), two great grandmothers, four grandparents, twelve aunts & uncles, seventeen cousins, and countless friends who would have loved to play dress up, kick a soccer ball, and otherwise just be pals.

We thank our many care teams at Doran Clinic for Women in Ames and University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City for extending honoring, compassionate care to us and Lucy as we navigated the many questions we had throughout her health journey. We are also deeply grateful to our Cornerstone Church community and many small groups for their prayers, tears, and generosity. Thank you Kylie Collins and Walk With You for doing just that and so much more. Thank you Paige Epkes for being there when we needed you. Thank you Adams Funeral Home for your hospitality and stewardship. And thank you, family and friends, for encircling us with love, support, and prayers (and food and coffee) for the past four months and many more to come. We are humbled by your kindness, charity, and service to us in our time of need.

To our sweet Lucy Grace, we love you so much and miss you so dearly. Forever our second child and always our first daughter, your short life has forever changed ours, and we long for the day when every tear will be wiped away from our eyes. We have had many prayers for your life and death. Yes, we hope and pray that God would use your small, but immeasurably precious life, to do something mighty for His Kingdom. We also pray that lost souls who wouldn’t have otherwise known Jesus would come to faith in Him because of your story. But, more than these things, we prayed for you to know how precious, treasured, and loved you are. And now, as you experience God’s fullness of joy, we continue to pray for God’s will to be done and for the reality of the gospel to shine brightly from the darkness of this valley - for His glory and our good.

All are invited to Lucy’s funeral, held at 10 AM on Saturday, November 22, at Cornerstone Church (3425 Turing St, Ames, IA 50010), with lunch to be provided after. The service will also be livestreamed at cornerstonelife.com/funeral. If you feel led to do so, consider implementing a touch of pink in your attire on this day. Lucy Grace truly melted our hearts to the color pink during our sweet time with her. A private family burial will take place at 1 PM at Ames Municipal Cemetery. Lucy’s final resting place will be the Cornerstone Church graveyard, pending completion in 2026.

In lieu of flowers, we would be honored if you gave to a memorial fund set up by Cornerstone Church in honor of Lucy Grace (online gifts can be made at cornerstonelife.com/give - please select “Bang Memorial Fund”, or by check made out to Cornerstone Church with the memo “Bang Memorial Fund”). This fund will be used to annually sponsor Salt Company scholarships for fall retreat and Salt Conference, as well as provide funding to other causes (e.g., Walk With You) that have helped us along this path.

Edra Wheelock

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:32:00 -0600

Edra Violet (Smith) Wheelock age 97, passed away on November 16, 2025, at Green Hills Retirement Community in Ames.

The only child of Charles R. and Nancy Hazel (Wright) Smith, Edra was born on January 11, 1928, in Spencer, West Virginia. She grew up in central West Virginia and graduated as valedictorian from Clendenin High School in 1945.

Edra attended West Virginia University where she majored in education and received B.S. and M.A. degrees. She was certified to teach English, Speech, and Latin. While teaching in Charleston, West Virginia, Edra met Thomas D. Wheelock, a chemical engineer, and they were married on August 9, 1952, in the Clendenin Methodist Church.

Edra and Tom moved to Ames in 1954, where Edra taught in the English Department at Iowa State College while Tom completed a Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering. When Tom joined the Iowa State faculty in 1958, Edra became a full-time homemaker and mother to their son, David, and daughter, Ann. Edra resumed teaching at Iowa State in 1972 and continued until 1985.

During her years in Ames, Edra was an active member of Collegiate Presbyterian Church, serving as a trustee and assisting with many projects and committees. She was a member of PEO and the Fortnightly Book Club. She volunteered for PEO, the Ames Public Library, and other community and neighborhood projects.

After 47 years in their home, Edra and Tom relocated to the Green Hills Retirement Community in Ames, where Edra enjoyed their many friends and was an active participant on multiple committees.

Edra was preceded in death by her husband, Tom, and her parents, and is survived by her son David Wheelock (Eloisa Palafox), daughter Ann Wheelock (David Lund), and a grandson, Charles Wheelock. Services are pending. Memorial gifts are welcome for the Ames Animal Shelter or the Boys and Girls Club of Ames.

Per her request, there are no services scheduled at this time. She will be cremated and laid to rest with her husband Tom at the Collegiate Presbyterian Church.

Janice Samuelson

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:10:29 -0600

Janice (Jan) Samuelson, 92, of Ames, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, November 12th, 2025, at Northcrest Heartwood House in Ames.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 29th, 2025, in the Grand Room at Northcrest Community, 2300 Northcrest Parkway, Ames, IA 50010. Inurnment will be in the Ames Municipal Cemetery.

Jan Peltier Samuelson was born on April 18, 1933, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Joseph and Marjorie Burgum Peltier. She graduated from Arthur High School in Arthur, North Dakota, in 1952. Jan attended North Dakota State University and later earned her degree from the University of North Dakota in 1955.

On May 28, 1955, she married Bob Samuelson at the Methodist Church in Arthur. Shortly after, they moved to Ottumwa, Iowa, and over the years lived in Columbus Junction, Cedar Rapids, and Des Moines before settling in Ames in 1969.

Jan devoted herself first and foremost to her family. Once her children were grown, she began working outside the home, holding positions at the Des Moines Register Circulation Office and the Iowa State University Seed Science Center.

A lifelong volunteer, Jan was deeply involved in her church and community. Her service included work with the Methodist Church, United Methodist Women (UMW), TTT, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Friends of Foreign Wives, The Arc (Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities), the League of Women Voters, Gamma Phi Beta, Mary Greeley Medical Center, and the Resident Advocate Committee at Northcrest.

Jan is survived by her son, Mark (Suzanne) Samuelson of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter, Peggy (Jerry) Ulicki of Fort Dodge, Iowa; son, Jim (Jane) Samuelson of Minnetrista, Minnesota; grandchildren, Jerod (Kat) Ulicki, Jessica (Billy) Ziegler, Janae (Kyle) Hewitt; step-granddaughter, Becky (Bryan) Smouse; brothers-in-law, Stan (Carol) Samuelson and Norm Jacobson. She is also blessed with 8 great-grandchildren and 2 step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Samuelson; son, John Samuelson; grandson, Jordan Ulicki; brother, Joe Peltier; brother-in-law, Dick Fox; sisters-in-law, Norma Peltier, Marge Fox, and Maureen Jacobson.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given to Friendship Arc, Mainstream Living, Israel Family Hospice, Northcrest or to the charity of your choice.

Joan Doolittle

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:35:10 -0600

Joan Doolittle died at age 95 on November 10, 2025 at Saint Luke's South Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas.

Joan was born to Judith (Olson) and Iver Wicks of Roland, Iowa on March 9, 1930 in the old Story City, Iowa Hospital. The birth was complicated and both infant and mother nearly died. Joan was an only child. She was baptized and confirmed at Bergen Lutheran Church in Roland.

Joan grew up on farms around Roland and McCallsburg, Iowa, attending school in those communities. She graduated from Roland High School in 1948.

When Joan's father fell in ill health, the family visited him at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. Returning to central Iowa on one of those trips, the Wicks car bumper was clipped by a driver attempting to pass on Old Highway 6, throwing the vehicle into the ditch. Joan sustained, by far, the worst injuries, breaking her back, and being placed in a body cast for several months. Joan recovered, but was not able to attend her father's funeral.

Joan's mother then moved the two to Ames, Iowa, where they purchased a home. Joan worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone in Ames until marriage.

Joan was married to Hubert Doolittle on September, 25, 1954, at Bergen Church. They built a home next door to Agnes and Lester Doolittle on the family farm southeast of Story City, raising their three children in a busy and active life. Joan stepped right in, helping in whatever chores needed to be done, including herding livestock, even when pregnant. She helped feed workers during harvest and always enjoyed visiting family members, particularly the ones who returned to Iowa from California, where many from both sides of the family had moved.

Joan was always happy to assist with grandchildren, helping with care as long as needed. She enjoyed her Norwegian heritage, and especially the Scandinavian foods Kumla, Kringla, Lefse and Potato Cakes.

Later in life, Joan was a tireless caregiver to both her mother, and her husband, who suffered a 10 year battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Hubert passed in 2013. They were married 59 years. Joan moved into town and resided at Cedar Place in Story City for the next 12 years.

In November of 2024, Joan suffered a fall and had emergency spinal surgery at age 94. She powered through that and spent the rest of her life splitting time between her home in Central Iowa and with her son John and his wife Amanda in suburban Kansas City.

Joan was always social and was sharp to the end, wanting to remain up to date with farm business. She enjoyed gathering with family for birthdays and holidays. She was active at Grace Methodist Church, where after her marriage they were among the founders of a group called The Homebuilders. She enjoyed the activities, especially bingo, at both Cedar Place and for a short time, Bethany Life, where she was a friend to everyone.

Joan is survived by her son David (Marlene) of Story City, son John (Amanda) of Overland Park, KS and daughter Lori (John) Anderson of Story City. In addition, 8 grandchildren, Jason (Mandy) of Highlands Ranch, CO, Jennifer (Dan) Haskin of Story City, Jenessa (Brice) Haskin of Story City, Justin (Anja) of Roland, Lauren (Leah) of Overland Park, KS, Megan of Denver, CO, Brian (Sara) Anderson of Stanhope, IA and Mark (Lexi) Anderson of Duncombe, IA. Joan was also a proud great grandmother of 12.

The family suggests Memorials be directed to Grace United Methodist Church, Story City, IA.

Paula Tripp

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:28:38 -0600

Paula Kay Tripp passed away at her home in Ames, Iowa on November 11, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 81 years old.

Paula was born on May 20, 1944, in Fort Madison, Iowa to Frank and Irma Patterson of Wever. She graduated from Fort Madison High School in 1962 and the Burlington Hospital School of Nursing in 1965. For over 40 years she was a practicing Registered Nurse, bringing care and comfort to hundreds of patients across Iowa.

She married Robert Tripp on February 25, 1987, living with him on a farm outside of Ames, Iowa, where she spent her time doting on her grandchildren, listening to Neil Diamond, and rooting for the Iowa State Cyclones in all their games, especially when they played the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Paula is survived by her husband, Robert, of Ames, Iowa, and her son Michael (Dawn) Walstrom of Slater, Iowa; grandchildren Zane and Delaney Walstrom of Ames, Iowa; sister, Susan Nickel of Van Nuys, California, brother, Scott Nickel of Wever, Iowa; sister-in-law, Deb (Marc) Roberg of Afton, Iowa; brother-in-law, Marvin Tripp of Ames, Iowa; niece, Cassandra Nickel of Fort Madison, Iowa; niece Denise Roberg of Afton, Iowa; nephew, Michael J Tripp of Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Patterson, mother Irma Nickel, stepfather Earl Nickel, mother-in-law Joan Tripp, and father-in-law Henry Tripp.

Paula will forever be fondly remembered for her fierceness, sense of humor, and the love she had for her family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Napier Community Church in Napier, Iowa, from 9:30 AM to 10:30, with a memorial service following at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boone Area Humane Society. BAHS.us

Mark Gilloon

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:57:14 -0600

Mark Daly Gilloon, age 78, passed away on November 11, 2025, at his home in Ames, Iowa.

He was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on June 22, 1947, to Frank and Nan (Fitzgerald) Gilloon, II. After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1965, he joined the U.S. Navy. He served as a Chaplain’s Assistant on the USS Boxer and was honored with the Vietnam Service Medal and the Bronze Star. After returning home, Mark attended Loras College and Dubuque University.

Mark was a proud member of the Ironworkers' Local 67 and worked on several notable projects, including the 801 Grand building from 1989 to 1991, 711 High Street in 2015, and the downtown Des Moines skywalks. He was also a member of American Legion Post 37. Outside of his work, Mark was an avid gardener, a dedicated Cyclone fan, and enjoyed working on both cars and boats.

Mark is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diane Meinzer Gilloon; his son, Daniel Gilloon, and daughter-in-law, Leah Steinoff Gilloon; his grandsons, Vincent and Maxon Gilloon; and his brothers, Frank, Jon, and Peter Gilloon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Nan Gilloon, and his loving sister, Maura.

The family extends a special thank you to Saint Cecilia Catholic Church, especially Father Don Czapla, for his prayers and support. They would also like to express heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Home Instead Hospice, particularly Julie, Sam, Charlotte, and Marcy, for providing care, support, and friendship.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Adams Funeral Home in Ames, Iowa, with a Vigil beginning at 5:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 9:30 AM at Saint Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames, Iowa. Mark will be laid to rest with military honors at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery following the mass.

Betty Paulson

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:40:57 -0600

Betty Mae Paulson, 96, of Story City passed away November 8, 2025 at the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone, Iowa.

Betty was born on October 19, 1929 in rural Boone County to Otto L. and Opal (Richards) Peter. She was baptized at St. Paul Lutheran Church in rural Boone and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Boone. Betty graduated on June 3, 1948 from Boone High School and married Duane Paulson on April 17, 1949 at Trinity Lutheran Church. They moved to rural Story City where Duane farmed for 10 years and then moved to Des Moines for two years, while Duane attended AIB. They then moved to Ames in 1959 and then to Roland in 1960. Duane and Betty lived in town for two years before moving south of Roland and then in 2000 they moved to Story City.

Betty enjoyed quilting, was a very good cook, and was an excellent seamstress, sewing many clothes for her family. She enjoyed working outside in her flower beds and gardening, canning green beans and sweet corn. She and Duane were members of Bergen Lutheran Church.

Betty is survived by her three sons, John of Story City, Melvin of Loveland, CO and Philip of McCallsburg; nine grandchildren, Jeb, Joe, Rachel, Melissa, Ashley, Forrest, Katie, Nicholas and Alice; 12 great grandchildren, Alyssa, Elijah, Sayer, Cadence, Jeremiah, Trey, Arwen, Ella, Linnaya, Isaiah, Flora and Kelvin and her brother, Wilmer (Gladys) Peter of Story City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Duane; three sisters, Shirley, Berniece and Delores and her brother, Delbert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bergen Lutheran Church.

Michael McCoy

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:54:43 -0600

Michael “Mike” Grant McCoy, 71, of rural Story City passed away November 5, 2025 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. A Celebration of Life Service will be Friday November 14, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the Center Cemetery in rural Story City.

Mike was born on December 28, 1953 in Nevada, Iowa to James and Virginia (Baldus) McCoy. He graduated from Roland-Story High School in 1973 and from Ellsworth Community College in 1975. Mike married Karen Kreutner on March 30, 1996. He worked in Ames for 34 years and then at Martin Marieta and then helped area farmers for years. Mike enjoyed living on his acreage where he raised a large garden, sharing the bounty of garden with area neighbors, making jerky and dried deer meat and making pickles. He also enjoyed training hunting dogs and going fishing.

Mike is survived by his wife, Karen McCoy; his step-children, Jason Vincent of Nevada and Amber Vincent of Ames; three step-grandchildren, Dalton, Colby and Camdan; his two sisters, Kathy (Marvin) Ness of Jewell and Marge (Neale) Armstrong of Shelby, IA; nephews, Carlton and Parker Ness and nieces Lyndy Jackson and Anna (Travis) Beckius.

He was preceded in death by his father, James McCoy and mother, Virginia McCoy and his beloved dogs, Maddie and Mary.

Stephen Simpson

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:51:15 -0600

Stephen Albert Simpson, age 62, passed away on November 4, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center in Des

Moines, IA surrounded by family and the love of Jesus.

A visitation will be held November 7, 2025, at The Link (3329 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA, 50014) from 5:00-

7:00pm. A memorial service celebrating Stephen’s life will take place November 8, 2025, at Lutheran

Church of Hope – Ankeny (520 NW 36th Street, Ankeny, IA, 50023), at 10:30am. Loved ones, friends, and

all who were touched by Stephen’s presence are invited to praise Jesus, gather, and honor a remarkable

life. The memorial services will be livestreamed, and a link is available under the event's section of

Stephens obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website.

Born on May 20, 1963, to Gerald Albert Simpson and Gloria Louise Simpson (Jones) in Natrona Heights,

PA. On April 25, 1987, he was joined in holy matrimony with Susan Annette Sandy in Thurmont, MD.

From this union came two unique and beautiful daughters.

Most of his childhood was spent as a child in a U.S. Navy family with many moves living primarily in

England. The family landed in Saxonburg, PA where he graduated from Knoch High School - 1981. He

received a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Maryland (College Park) - 1986, a M.B.A. from Hood

College - 1992, and Ph.D. from Iowa State University – 2015.

After working in several companies in the Washington, D.C. area, Iowa State University presented an

opportunity in 1992 to work for Environmental Health & Safety as a Health Physicist. At the time of his

retirement from ISU in 2022, Stephen was the Director of Emergency Management and EH&S Outreach.

He also was an Adjunct Assistant Professor for Ag Bioscience Engineering until the time of his passing.

With every church congregation Steve and Susan belonged, he was an undeniable living breathing

example of loving all people. He was a joyful member of the Ames congregation of Lutheran Church of

Hope at the time of his passing and served students in the High School program (Ignition) and college

ministry (Kairos). He loved Jesus, his family, wood working, and trying to make heaven more crowded

with the lives of everyone with whom he interacted. His love of life and the people who crossed his path

were a core part of him.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Susan; daughters, Audrey (Todd) Steenhoek, Emily (Nathan)

Hansen; his granddaughter, Charlotte Hansen; brothers, Jon Michael (Shelly) Simpson - Maryland, Mark

(Karen) Simpson - Florida; sister, Sarah (Jon) Enos – Maryland; father, Gerald Simpson – Maryland;

mother-in-law, Sarah Sandy – Iowa; brothers-in-law, Edward (Beth) Sandy – West Virginia, Kevin

(Catherine) Sandy – Arkansas; nephews and nieces, Kyle Sandy, Abby Fowler, Wade Sandy, Grant Sandy,

Kolt Sandy, Leif Sandy, Joshua Sandy, Rachel Gallagher, Spencer Simpson, Cameron Simpson, Ethan

Simpson, Noah Simpson, and Tyler Simpson.

He was preceded in death by his mother Gloria (Jones) Simpson.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Lutheran Church of Hope for the Ames Building Fund.

Stella Clancy

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:51:05 -0600

Stella Anna (Inks) Clancy, 88, of Jewell passed away on November 2, 2025 at the Hubbard Care Center in Hubbard. No services are planned.

Stella was born on September 2, 1937 in Hardin County, Iowa to LeRoy and Birdie (Hoversten) Inks. She graduated from Alden High School in 1955 and from Waldorf College in Forrest City. She married Jon Michael Clancy and to this union three children were born.

Stella is survived by her daughter, Terri (Tim) Blomgren of Stanhope; two sons, Todd (Johna) Clancy of Indianola and Troy (Mary) Clancy of Eagle River, Alaska; five grandchildren, Amber, John, Katlin, Patrick and Logan and six great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Betty Grimm and brother, David Inks.

Donald Brown

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:27:18 -0600

Donald Edward Brown passed away on November 4, 2025, at the Bickford Cottage of Ames. He was 84 years old.

Donald was born on September 10, 1941, in Santiago Township, Minnesota, to George and Louise (Lang) Brown. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a Radio and Electronics Engineer, until he retired from the military.

In accordance with Donald’s wishes, he is to be cremated. His ashes will be placed with his wife's at the Veteran's Cemetery in Florida at a later date. No services will be held at this time.

Kathryn Baker

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:51:55 -0500

Kathryn Baker, age 97, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at Northridge Village in Ames, Iowa. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025 at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Ames with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Story Memorial Gardens.

Kathryn Irene Baker was born September 25, 1928 to Nick and Cora (Palo) Powgnas near Alden in Hardin County, Iowa. She graduated from Alden High School in 1946 and married Harlan Henry Baker on November 9, 1947 at the First United Methodist Church in Des Moines, Iowa. In this marriage two children were born: Delores A. Bear of White Bear Lake, Minn. and James D. Baker of Ames.

Kathryn worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for two years in Des Moines. She enjoyed baking cookies, bowling, going for walks, playing cards, and attending her grandchildren’s activities. Kathryn was a charter member of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Ames. She enjoyed her morning coffee, ice cream and Sunday night popcorn with her husband.

Survivors include her daughter, Delores (Bruce) Bear and son, James (Teresa) Baker; her grandchildren, Matthew Bear, Amy (Curtis) Smith, Alicia Grund, Harlan J. Baker and Chelsea Baker; and her great-grandchildren, Tristan Smith, Stella Smith, Miles Grund and Owen Grund.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years Harlan H. Baker, parents; her step-mother Daisy Powgnas (Bahr) and her brothers, Henry Powgnas and Leo E. Powgnas; an infant sister; and a step-brother, David Bahr.

Adams Funeral Home in Ames is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and photos may be shared at www.adamssoderstrum.com