John E. Fick, age 93, of Danbury passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Maple Heights Nursing Home of Mapleton.
    Visitation was held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Armstrong-Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton.
    A funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church of Mapleton. Rev. Nathan Peitsch officiated. Committal services followed in the Liston Township Cemetery of Danbury. Military Rites were conducted by Carlson-Frum American Legion Post 336 of Danbury.
    The Armstrong-Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton was in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.armstrongfuneral.com.
    John Ernest Fick, the son of Ernest and Edna (Schiernbeck) Fick was born on August 17, 1932, in Battle Creek. He was baptized into the Lutheran faith at St. John's Lutheran Church, Battle Creek, on September 18, 1932 and later confirmed on May 19, 1946. John remained steadfast in his faith throughout his life.
    John grew up in the Danbury area and received his elementary education in a rural country school. He later attended Danbury High School, graduating with the Class of 1950.
    John was an all-around athlete. In 1947, he helped his boys' state basketball team earn a third-place finish as its only freshman member. In 1950, he competed at the state track meet in Ames in the long jump and 220-yard dash. While there, he was invited to attend a basketball practice with the Iowa State Cyclones which ultimately led to a full-ride scholarship offer. John declined the opportunity because he was needed at home, though it remained one of his favorite life stories.
    After high school, John began working as a farmhand. In 1952, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Korean War until receiving his honorable discharge in 1954.
    In 1955, John took Joan Johnson on a blind date, and to his surprise, she agreed to see him again. The couple was united in marriage on May 27, 1956 and shared 67 years together before Joan's passing in 2023. In February 1957, they welcomed their daughter, Nancy Lee.
    John was a dedicated farmer whose work ethic and commitment to the land defined much of his life. He was one of the first anhydrous applicators in the Danbury area and was a founding partner of Maple Valley Feeders in Correctionville. John and Joan worked side by side in the fields for over 25 years before retiring. Even in retirement, John continued hauling for the local fertilizer company.
    Beginning in 1979, John and Joan were blessed with three grandchildren. For decades, their grandchildren could always count on looking to the stands and seeing their grandparents there to cheer them on. During the last 16 years, John's devotion to family continued through their great-grandchildren, attending countless baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, football, and basketball games.
    John will be remembered for his honesty, his sense of humor, and his love of a good steak. Anyone who knew John also knew where his loyalties stood - tractors should always be green; and perhaps now, with him cheering from heaven, the Iowa Hawkeyes will finally win a national title.
    Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Nancy (Brent) Berry of Danbury; grandchildren Jamie (Audrey) Dean, Justin (Sarah Humpal) Dean, and Kelli (Justin) Blair all of Sergeant Bluff; 10 great-grandchildren: Aylah, Braylon, Carter, Monroe, Cadence, Jaxon, Grayson, Eli, Owen, and Preston; brother Kenneth Palm of Texas; sister-in-law Diane Palm of Nebraska; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his father Ernest Fick; mother Edna Palm; stepfather Alfred Palm; wife Joan Fick; siblings Phillys Fick, Lois (Marvin) Collins, and Dennis Palm; sister-in-law Kathy Palm; and in-laws Seth and Martha Johnson.

    George C. Koithan, age 93, of Mapleton passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Mapleton.
    A Funeral Service with visitation was held on Friday, May 1, 2026, in St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Mapleton. Rev. Nathan Peitsch officiated. Committal Services followed in Mount Hope Cemetery in Mapleton with Military Rites conducted by Loren Hollister Post No. 496 of the American Legion of Mapleton.
    Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton was in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.armstrongfuneral.com.
    George Charles Koithan, son of George and Elsie (Ziems) Koithan was born on September 2, 1932, in Mapleton. George was a lifelong member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Mapleton where he was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. Shortly before his high school graduation, George began his career in farming full time after his father suffered a stroke, and passed away unexpectedly.
    In 1955, George enlisted in the U.S. Army as a tank and track mechanic. He served in Alaska and received an honorable discharge as an SP3 in 1957. He returned to Mapleton to pursue his passion for farming.
    On March 17, 1957, George wed his sweetheart, Evelyn Jean Justi, in St. Paul Lutheran Church, in Sioux City. After moving to Mapleton, the couple had the good fortune of welcoming three sons: Kirk, Daniel, and Thomas. George took great pride in his sons' athletic, academic, professional, and personal achievements. He and Evelyn felt blessed.
    George was active in his community, contributing his time to the Jaycees, the ASC committee, and the Loren Hollister Post #496, of the American Legion. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fishing, bowling, going dancing, and listening to and playing polka music, on his accordion. George was both loving and loved by all who enjoyed a lively polka, a cup of coffee, and friendly conversation.
    His greatest treasure in his life was his family. Nothing brought George more joy than being around his grandchildren and attending all of their activities. When he couldn't attend, he took pleasure in listening to their stories.
    In August of 2000, his sweetheart, Evelyn, passed away. George married Irene Reisenberg on June 25, 2005, in St. Lawrence Church, in Carroll after meeting her at a polka dance. He lovingly nicknamed Irene his "Honeybee." George and Irene made their home in Carroll, and together they enjoyed polka dancing and taking car rides, visiting each other's families.
    His memory will be lovingly remembered by his sons, Daniel (Carol) Koithan of Mapleton and Thomas (Rose) Koithan of Clive; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Koithan-Mockler of Vermillion, SD; grandchildren Douglas (Gina) Koithan, Stephen (Jennifer) Koithan, Sarah (Clayton) Janecke, David (Maria) Koithan, Jeff (Katie) Koithan, Ben (Gabby) Koithan, Eric (Tiffany) Koithan, Alisa (Tyler) Wattier, Joseph Koithan, MaryKatherine (Jackson) Braatz, Morgan (Trevor) Lloyd, Chelsea (Donnie) Brookes, and Carly Watson; 16 great-grandchildren and one on the way; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
    George was predeceased by his parents George and Elsie Koithan; wives Evelyn (Justi) Koithan and Irene (Reisenberg) Koithan; son Kirk Koithan; five siblings and extended family members who remain loved and never forgotten.

    Rhonda Lee, age 70, of Battle Creek passed away on April 27, 2026, at Willow Dale Wellness Village of Battle Creek.
    A Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek.
    A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. Rev. Neil Wehmas will officiate. Committal Services will follow in Liston Township Cemetery of Danbury.
    The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Battle Creek is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com
    Rhonda Renea Lee, the daughter of Wesley and Helen (Hammer) Husted, was born on June 18, 1955, in Battle Creek. She grew up in Battle Creek and received her education from Battle Creek High School, graduating with the class of 1973. After high school, she furthered her education at Morningside College where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education.
    On February 4, 1979, Rhonda was united in marriage to Chester Lee at St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. The couple made their home on a farm where they were blessed with a son, Christopher. Rhonda found great joy in caring for her expansive flower gardens, a passion that grew into her role as Horticulture Superintendent at the Ida County Fair. During the summer months, she traveled to numerous area county fairs as well as the Iowa State Fair to judge floral exhibits. Life on the farm also sparked her fondness for black baldy-faced calves; she often sat by the window watching them in the pen, carefully jotting down their ear tag numbers.
    Rhonda devoted her life to a career in education, serving several local school districts over the years. She especially cherished her more than two decades with the Boyer Valley Community School District where she worked as an elementary librarian and TAG teacher. Even after retiring, Rhonda remained committed to staying active and giving back, volunteering at Danbury Catholic Elementary. There, she formed a deep appreciation for the students, staff, and the entire school community. One thing remained constant through the years, Rhonda loved teaching and she loved volunteering.
    Never one to stay idle for long, Rhonda remained deeply involved in her community. She served as a past president of the Battle Creek Women's Club and was a former member of the Battle Creek Library Board. A lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek, she dedicated much of her time to volunteering and serving others. Rhonda was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to her grandson, Calvin. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
    Left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 47 years, Chester Lee of Battle Creek; son Christopher (Shelby) Lee of Battle Creek; grandson Calvin Lee; brother-in-law Carl (Gaylene) Lee of Grimes; nieces and nephews Collin (Lia) Lee, Traci (Fred) Rogo, Ross Rusch, Raquel Mumm, and Jayme Bresnahan; many great nieces and great nephews, extended family and friends.
    She was preceded in death by her parents Wesley and Helen Husted; sisters Sharon Husted and Theonne Rusch-Kolls; niece Trisha McCormick, in-laws Stuart and Katherine Lee; as well as many beloved furry friends.

    Roger Reese Spaulding, age 74, of Battle Creek passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospital in Sioux City.
    A Visitation with Rosary and a vigil service were held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in St. Mary's Catholic Church, Danbury.
    A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in St. Mary's Catholic Church of Danbury. Father James J. Tigges and Father Richard D. Ball concelebrated. Committal Services followed in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at Danbury with Military Rites by Carlson-Frum Post No. 336 of the American Legion, Danbury.
    The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove was in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com.
    Roger Reese Spaulding was born on February 13, 1952, at Hartley Hospital in Battle Creek, the fourth child of Reese and Lula (Taylor) Spaulding. He was raised in the Battle Creek area where he developed a strong sense of family and work ethic, and graduated from Maple Valley High School with the Class of 1971.
    In December 1971, Roger honorably answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. Following basic training, he was stationed at Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi. On October 6, 1973, he married his sweetheart, Lois Moser, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Danbury. Together they began their married life in Columbus, building a foundation of love and partnership that would endure for decades.
    In September 1974, Roger was deployed to Udorn Air Force Base in Thailand where he worked on aircraft, supporting operations during the Vietnam War. His service reflected both dedication and quiet strength. Later that year, he was honorably discharged and returned home.
    Roger and Lois then made their home in Bear Creek, AL, where Roger pursued his passion for mechanics by enrolling in Diesel Mechanic School at Russellville Technical School. He graduated in August 1976, while working for Gene Lyle Wrecker and Ambulance Service, demonstrating the determination and work ethic that would define his life. He remained there until June 1978, when he and Lois returned to Iowa.
    Throughout his career, Roger earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike through his skill, reliability, and integrity. He worked for Nail IH and Collins John Deere in Mapleton, John Deere in Sioux City, and later served as Director of Transportation for the Battle Creek Community School District until its merger with Ida Grove. He concluded his career with Hultgren John Deere Implement, where he worked for several years before retiring in March 2014.
    Roger was a devoted father and proud "Papa" whose greatest joy came from supporting his children and grandchildren. He was their constant encourager and steadfast presence, always showing up with quiet pride for every activity and milestone. During the summer months, he gave generously of his time as a dedicated 4-H father and spent countless hours mowing the Ida County Fairgrounds and helping create lasting experiences for his children.
    He treasured time spent with his family in the Big Horns where camping, fishing, and the beauty of the outdoors brought him deep happiness. At home, Roger took great pride in raising his cow-calf pairs, finding fulfillment in nurturing both his livestock and the family he loved so deeply.
    Known for his strong work ethic, Roger was rarely at rest. He could often be found tinkering on a tractor, cutting hay, feeding livestock, or faithfully working through his wife's "honey-do" list. No task was too small when it came to caring for his family and home.
    In 2024, Roger's boys convinced him to participate in his very first tractor pull. Driving his John Deere 4020, affectionately known as "Pat," he embraced the moment wholeheartedly. The memories made that day stand as a lasting testament to the love, laughter, and dedication he shared with his family, memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
    Roger was preceded in death by his son, Dain Spaulding; grandsons Wyatt Stein and Coyle Love; granddaughter Isabella Jean Spaulding; parents Reese and Lula Spaulding; sisters Evelyn Erpelding and Susie Maas; and brother, James Spaulding.
    Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife 52 years, Lois Spaulding of Battle Creek; children Luke (Joni) Spaulding of Upton, WY, Cody (Whitney) Spaulding of Moorcroft, WY, Whitt (Sheryl) Spaulding of Cushing, and Shiliah (Bryan) Stein of Clare, IA; grandchildren Parker, Tucker, Clancy, Conagher, Quintin, Dale Kay, Quigley, Qordell, Delainy Warren, Ellie Ann, Sully, Stetson Lula, Lane, Reese Taylor, and Bailey Jean; Papa's faithful four legged companion Rosie; and a host of dear friends.
    Roger's life was marked by dedication to his country, commitment to his work, and, above all, devotion to his family.

    Donna M. Zediker, age 87, of Mapleton passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her loving family.
    A Visitation was held on Monday, April 13, 2026, at St. John's United Methodist Church in Mapleton.
    A Funeral Service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at St. John's United Methodist Church in Mapleton. Pastor Kirk Manchester officiated. Committal Services followed in Mount Hope Cemetery of Mapleton.
    In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Donna's honor to the Mapleton Library, Mapleton EMT, and the St. John's United Methodist Church of Mapleton.
    The Armstrong-Van Houten Funeral Homes of Mapleton were in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.armstrongfuneral.com
    Donna M. Zediker was born on September 19, 1938, in rural Danbury. She lived a life defined by dedication to her family, her community, and the many talents she generously shared with others.
    Donna graduated in 1957 as Valedictorian of Danbury High School where she was active in basketball and played the clarinet. After graduation she attended business school through the Commercial Extension in Omaha and developed valuable skills including shorthand. She later worked at Zales (Crescent Jewelry) in Sioux City before returning home to help care for her ailing grandfather alongside her mother.
    In 1958, Donna married Keith Zediker, and together they began farming east of Danbury. They raised three children—Deborah, Steve, and Greg—building a life rooted in hard work and love. To help support the family, Donna sold Avon and Tupperware, all while maintaining a large garden and staying actively involved in her children's lives, especially through 4-H and county fairs.
    Donna and Keith enjoyed square dancing and bowling, and their partnership extended into many shared activities and community service. In 1973, they moved to a farm five miles east of Mapleton where Donna would leave a lasting mark on her community.
    A gifted musician and teacher, Donna gave piano lessons to local students for 37 years. She was also a skilled seamstress, known throughout the area for her alterations and craftsmanship. Remarkably, she completed her final prom dress alteration just days before becoming ill. Donna's creativity extended to quilting, and over the years she lovingly made more than 30 quilts for her family.
    Donna worked for 22 years at Maple Valley Community Schools, serving in many roles including teacher's aide, library aide, recess supervisor, and print room assistant. She also worked at the former Maple Motel and embraced life's adventures—including riding to Sturgis on the back of Keith's motorcycle.
    Deeply committed to her community, Donna was a member of the Order of Eastern Star for over 50 years, serving as Worthy Matron from 1976 to 1977 and later as organist. She also played organ for her church and was active in numerous organizations, including PEO, United Methodist Women, Friends of the Library, and as a Rainbow Girl in her youth. Donna and Keith also served as volunteer EMTs for the Mapleton Ambulance.
    In 1976, Donna was honored as Rural Homemaker of the Year by the county extension, a reflection of her dedication and impact. She enjoyed attending her children's and grandchildren's events, including sports and music contests, and in later years followed the Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark.
    Donna is survived by her devoted husband, Keith Zediker of Mapleton; her children, Deborah Zediker (Deborah Delzell) of Bayfield, CO, Steve Zediker (Cindy) of Parker, CO, and Greg Zediker (Diane) of Lynden, WA; grandchildren: Valerie, Micah, Jodi, Alex, and Will Zediker; brother, Darrell (Lin) Scott of Danbury; and sister-in-law, Nancy Scott, Omaha, NE; nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and beloved cats, Oscar and Lucy.
    She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys and J. Edwin Scott, and brother, Roger Scott.
    Donna will be remembered for her kindness, her tireless work ethic, her creativity, and the love she poured into her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.

    We remember and give thanks for the life of Larry D. Kennaley, United States Navy (Ret.), who passed away on March 11, 2026, at the age of 89.
    Larry was born on September 24, 1936, in Iowa City to John Patrick Kennaley and Henrietta Voss. He spent his early childhood in Ida Grove until the age of eight, when he and his widowed mother moved to Danbury. It was there that Larry grew up and graduated from high school.
    After graduation, Larry answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. What began as service became a lifelong career. As a weather forecaster in the Navy, Larry served during a remarkable time in American history. He was assigned to the renowned VW-4 Hurricane Hunters in Jacksonville, FL, served during the Cuban Missile Crisis in Key West, and participated in the Mediterranean recovery operations of the deep-sea submersible Alvin. He also served aboard the Apollo 9 recovery ship, USS Guadalcanal and took part in a high-altitude balloon project in New Jersey. Through these assignments, Larry's work supported both military missions and scientific exploration.
    Beyond his years of service, Larry was a man of deep faith and quiet dedication. He served the church as a lay Eucharistic minister and a CCD teacher, sharing both his time and his faith with others.
    On February 7, 1959, Larry married Sheila Treiber of Danbury in Jacksonville, FL. Their marriage was one of enduring commitment and partnership.
    Following his retirement from the United States Navy, Larry continued working for many years with Nikon, bringing the same reliability and dedication to his second career.
    Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his daughter, Kristen Schwinkendorf; and his son, Larry II. He is also lovingly remembered by his 5 grandchildren: Laura Teague, Jennifer Schwinkendorf, Zachary Tetreault, Cameron Kennaley, and Austin Kennaley, and by his great-grandson, Clay Kennaley.
    He was preceded in death by his parents and by two daughters, Renee Kennaley and Teresa Tetreault.
    A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Waxahachie, TX, with interment to follow at a later date in Danbury.
    We remember Larry with gratitude — for his service to his country, for his faith, and for the love he shared with his family and those who knew him. May he rest in peace.