Adams Funeral Home & Cremation Service Obituaries

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Located in the heart of Ames, Iowa, at 502 Douglas Avenue, Adams Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been a cornerstone in the community, offering compassionate and professional services to families in their time of need. Known for its dignified and respectful approach, the funeral home prides itself on providing personalized memorial services that honor the lives of the departed while offering support and comfort to the bereaved.

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Adams Funeral Home & Cremation Service offers a wide array of options to suit the diverse needs of the community it serves. From traditional funerals to more contemporary celebrations of life, each service is conducted with a deep respect for the wishes of the deceased and their loved ones. The expert staff assists in planning every detail, ensuring a seamless and meaningful tribute aligns with both cultural traditions and personal preferences.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Susan Marie Ross - February 20, 1940 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Susan Marie Ross, age 84, of Ames, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024 at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Ave., Ames. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the Celebration at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Ames Municipal Cemetery.

Susan was born on February 20, 1940 in Atalissa, Iowa. She lived a very full life, first as a farm wife raising her four sons, then running a pizza restaurant in Newton, Iowa. She earned a Master’s Degree from Iowa State University, worked for several years in Eastern Europe and in California, and founded the original Iowa House mostly for foreign officials and academics visiting Iowa State University.

She was fascinated by foreign cultures and visited over 50 countries around the world on five continents. Susan loved water and sailed often around the Caribbean on a catamaran owned jointly with two sons. Parties of other family members were usually included. Later interests included work in fabric art.

Susan was preceded in death by her sister, Kaye; and her son, Sam. She is survived by her sons: Tim, Jeff, and Mike Sulzberger; her siblings, Jean and John; her husband, Dennis; stepson, David; ten grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

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Robert "Bob" Duncan Burgher - May 19, 1940 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Robert Duncan Burgher, age 83, of Huxley, passed away on April 8, 2024 at Mary Greeley Hospital in Ames, Iowa.

Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, April 12, 2024 at the Soderstrum-Reimers Funeral Home in Slater. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Lincoln Cemetery.

Born on May 19, 1940 in Moulton,Iowa; Robert was the son of Carl Everett Burgher and Lena Frances Campbell.

Robert was a veteran of The US Airforce and a member of the American Legion. He was the Owner/Operator of Burgher Construction involved in new construction and remodeling. Later in life he was employed in the Maintenance Department at Iowa State University. His hobbies included Bee Keeping and Remote Controlled Airplanes.

He is survived by his sons: Alex of Ames, Greg (Laurie) of Cedar Rapids, John (Carolyn) of Council Bluffs; his daughter, Bobbi Forst of Jeffersonville, IN; two brothers, Charles and Stuart; two sisters Garnet and Betty: and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Glee Iris (Newman) Burgher; his parents; a brother, Everett;

six sisters, Mary, Wilma, Frances, Evelyn, and Ruth; a daughter, Becky Decker; and a son, Chris Burgher.

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Carolyn Coe - August 01, 1942 - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Carolyn Coe, 81, of Ames, passed away Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone.

Carolyn was born August 1, 1942, the daughter of Franklin and Rose (Schuman) Heubner. She was united in marriage to David Coe on December 23, 1986, in Ames.

Carolyn was known for her sweet tooth and enjoyed Three Musketeers, brownies, cookies, and 7Up. After retiring from her career as a legal secretary she kept busy with sewing, cross stitching, word search puzzles, and reading. She enjoyed shopping and she loved to watch HGTV. Carolyn made hundreds of baby quilts that she donated to YSS in Ames. She was also a mentor at Roland-Story Elementary School. Her “spoiled but not rotten” grandchildren were the light of her life and she loved spending time with them, having sleepovers and taking field trips with them in the summer.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, David, in 2016.

Carolyn is survived by her two children, Diane Riedemann and Michael Brendeland; four grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Michael), Jordan “Honey Girl,” Jenna “Tootsie Girl,” and Kaleb; four great-granddaughters; and her brother, Frank “Butch” (Kris) Heubner; her nephews, Frankie and Billy, and her niece, Sara Kim.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2024, at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Avenue, Ames, with visitation one hour before the service. Inurnment will follow at the Ames Municipal Cemetery.

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Robert "Bob" C. Larson - May 03, 1942 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Robert Charles Larson, age 81, of Ames, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Mary Greeley Medical Center.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at Christ Community Church, 5501 George Washington Carver Ave., Ames. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Center Cemetery near Story City.

Born on May 3, 1942 in Nevada, Iowa, Bob was the son of Clifford and Alice (McDonald) Larson. He graduated from Polytechnic High School in Long Beach, California in 1960.

Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy on July 29, 1960 and was honorably discharged on March 25, 1966. He was united in marriage to Joyce West on September 8, 1963 at Grace United Methodist Church in Story City.

Bob worked for the City of Ames, beginning in the electric meter department and retired from the light department where he took care of the street lights for many years.

He enjoyed playing golf in the Ames City Golf League. Bob was a jokester and liked to tell stories. He was a member of the Ames American Legion Post 37 and Christ Community Church.

Bob is survived by a son, Gregory (Kim) Larson of Marion; a daughter, Renee (Scott) Brause of Ames; seven grandchildren: Alyssa (Cody) Osegard, Logan (Jacey) Larson, Malori Thornton, Sydney (Nick) Miguel, Bobby Brause, and Abby Brause; nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Lee (Erma) Larson; and sisters, Lois Brown, Ada Frodyma, and Eileen Brennen.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joyce; a grandson, Grady Larson; two brothers, Cliff Larson and Chet Larson; and six sisters: Rose Warren, Mary Belle Larson, Virginia Ullrick, Vivian Anderson, Evelyn Frier, and Edna Whetstone.

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Anita A. Nichols - December 26, 1928 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Anita A. Nichols, age 95, passed away March 29, 2024 at Independence Village in Ames. Anita was born December 26,1928 in Battle Creek, Iowa. She was the daughter of Jens and Gladys (Crawford) Kirkholm.

She attended Country School in Ida Grove, Iowa and graduated from Ida Grove HS in 1946. Her involvement in 4H inspired her to enroll at Iowa State College, where she graduated in 1952 with a degree in Home Economics.

Her adventurous spirit led her to spend a year in Alaska Territory from 1948-49.

She Married Donald Nichols on September 9, 1951. They moved to Ames in 1955 where they raised 6 children.

She was a long time member of Episcopal Parish of Ames, St John’s by the Campus where she was honored to be a member of the Order of Daughters of the King.

She cherished her membership in Sans Souci and Fortnight Book Club.

Anita pursued many passions in her life. She loved gardening, photography, and appreciating Art in many forms. She was especially proud to exhibit her flower photographs at St John’s.

She enjoyed visiting Reiman Gardens, hosting visitors on her deck, but was most happy hosting family gatherings including the traditional Christmas breakfast.

Her greatest joy in life came from her family. She is survived by her children: Steve Nichols of Des Moines, Gail Nichols of Oak Ridge, TN, Dan Nichols (Carla) of Cary, NC, Jeff Nichols of Santa Ynez, CA, Matt (Marta) Nichols of Solvang, CA; eleven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; a brother Stanley (Bonnie) Kirkholm of Storm Lake and a sister Eunice Kirkholm of Indianapolis, IN.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Donald, a son, Scott Nichols, a sister Donna Brown (Don) and a brother Wesley Kirkholm.

Celebration of Anita’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Monday, April 15, 2024 at St John’s by the Campus Episcopal Church in Ames. Visitation will begin at 10:30. The service and reception will follow.

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Doris Jean Nelton - March 19, 1947 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Doris Jean (Hinds) Nelton daughter of Wilbur and Edna Hinds, was born March 19, 1947, in Burlington, Iowa, and passed away peacefully on March 29, 2024. She was 77 years old.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Memorial Lutheran Church in Ames. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Fjeldberg Cemetery near Huxley.

She grew up in Wapello, Iowa. Doris along with her older sister, Ruth, enjoyed helping her mother cook and do things around the home. Doris met Charles Nelton and they united in marriage in Burlington, on April 17, 1971. After a short stay in Burlington, they had an opportunity to run a Quick Stop burger place in New Ulm, MN. They ran that for over 5 yrs. That started their 20-year adventure of owning seven KFC’S in Central Iowa. Those included Ames (2), Ankeny, Carroll, Denison, Storm Lake and Boone. Charles’ brother and wife were in this adventure with them. Doris was the CFO and made sure the numbers were in line. They both enjoyed their time serving the customers daily. Especially when they catered for big events in the towns. In 1999, they were ready to hang up the aprons and enjoy a little retirement. That’s when they enjoyed driving to Florida and spending a few weeks relaxing or taking in the many things to do. Her favorite vacation was to Hawaii.

In 2005 an opportunity came to own a single KFC store in Algona, Iowa. Doris and Charles helped Robert and Missy run the day-to-day operation. They operated that restaurant until 2017.

Their sons, Robert and Brian, were very involved with the Boy Scouts, and she was so proud of them both for getting their Eagle Awards. Doris enjoyed reading books and gardening the most. Her love for her kitties was strong and they traveled with her many times. She was devastated when Sunshine and Sir Sunshine had to cross the rainbow bridge. Her Princess Sunshine has been a comfort for her and will continue to be for Charles.

Doris is survived by her husband, Charles; sons Robert (Missy) all of Ames, and Brian (Kelly) of Fort Madison; their granddaughters, Abby Nelton and Allie Miller; grandsons, Toby Nelton, Logan and Austin Nelton; sister, Ruth Matteson of Donnellson, Iowa; brother-in-law, Richard Nelton of Des Moines; and many nieces and nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Edna Hinds and Charles’ parents, Quentin and Marjorie Nelton; Ruth’s husband, Eugene Matteson; and Richard’s wife, Robin Nelton.

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Norma "Kay" Thompson - July 29, 1937 - March 23, 2024

Departed: 03/23/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that the family of Kay Thompson (Corll) announce her passing on March 23, 2024 at the age of 86.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 P.M. on Monday, April 1, 2024 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Huxley. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. The Celebration will continue immediately following at the 1850 Homestead. A private family burial will be in the Ames Municipal Cemetery.

Kay was born July 29, 1937 to William and Virginia (Susie) Corll in Mt. Ayr, Iowa. She attended grade and high school in Mt. Ayr and graduated in 1955. After high school Kay attended and graduated from Northwest Missouri State College in Maryville, Missouri. While in high school she was a member of the school band and drove her two brothers crazy practicing her trombone at home.

Kay was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Huxley where she played an active role in its establishment in 1975.

She enjoyed decorating, playing bridge, and an occasional trip to the casino. She also loved baking, especially pies to share with friends.

Kay is survived by her husband Larry; her brother Don (Barb) Corll; her son Kent Davenport; her daughter Lisa (Mark) Beers; stepson Blane (Beth); stepdaughter Michelle (Bill) Riesberg; grandchildren Trevor Beers and Matthew (Janis) Beers; step-grandchildren Stacie Walther, Rylie Lynn Andresen, Cody Walther, Stephanie Thompson, Matthew Thompson and Megan Thompson. All of those she loved and touched deeply.

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Carolyn Joy Bomberger - April 30, 1942 - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Carolyn Joy Bomberger, age 81, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Country Meadow Place in Mason City, Iowa.

Carolyn Joy Bomberger was born April 30, 1942, in Morrison, Illinois, to Everett and Lucille (Griswald) Eslinger. Carolyn graduated from Clinton High School and married John (“Ed”) Edward Bomberger on July 3, 1965, at First Presbyterian Church in Clinton, Iowa. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Drake University, where she enjoyed being an Alpha Phi Sorority sister. Later, she served as an advisor to Alpha Phi while starting a family in Des Moines, Iowa.

She enjoyed becoming a mother, a grandmother, and following a variety of sports teams to include the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Cubs, the Green Bay Packers, and the Iowa State Cyclones. Carolyn became an active member in PEO when she and Ed moved to Ames, Iowa, in retirement.

Following Carolyn’s Alzheimer’s and dementia diagnosis, she became a resident at Country Meadow Place in December, 2022. She enjoyed becoming part of the CMP family. Her family is grateful for the loving care staff put into helping maintain her quality-of-life, even as she entered her hospice journey.

Carolyn is survived by her two daughters, Julie (Rich) Russo and Lisa (Jeff) Brinkley; four grandchildren, Renata Russo, Alyssa Russo, Eli Brinkley, and Abi Brinkley; and her sister Carla (Stan) Laasch, of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Ed; and her eldest daughter, Betsy Peterson.

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Brian K. Williams - July 22, 1961 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Brian (Burr Head) K. Williams, age 62, passed away after a prolonged hospitalization at Iowa Lutheran Hospital Friday, March 15, 2024.

Brian was born on July 22nd, 1961 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Herschel and Dolores (Primmer) Williams. He was one of four sons, Dale, Darwin, Brian and Donnie. He grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa where he spent many happy hours exploring and getting into mischief. He attended Ballard community school and graduated in 1980.

He was married to Julie Fredricks shortly after graduation and to this union was born one daughter, Amy.

Brian was a jack of all trades. He held various jobs throughout his life, including automotive repair, automotive detailing, building maintenance, housing remodels, and did many side jobs outside of working hours. One thing Brian was especially good at was finding broken down cars and fixing them up to resell.

Brian had a kind heart and was willing to help anyone in need. He loved to laugh and make people laugh any way he could.

Brian is survived by his mother, Dolores (Primmer) Williams, Huxley IA; his brothers Dale (Pat) Williams, Huxley, IA; Donnie (Amber) Williams, Urbandale, IA; His daughter Amy (Nick) Rosenberg, two granddaughters, Lola and Rozlynn, Nevada IA, and many aunts uncles, nieces and nephews.

Brian is preceded in death by his father, Herschel Williams, Huxley IA; his brother, Darwin Williams, Boone IA; and both maternal and paternal grandparents.

A visitation will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church, Kelley, IA on Friday April 5th from 4:00-8:00pm. A memorial service and luncheon will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 10:30am also at Bethany Lutheran Church, Kelly, IA. Brian will be laid to rest with his father at Fjeldberg Lutheran Cemetery in Huxley, IA that afternoon.

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Richard "Dick" L. Christie - June 06, 1934 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Richard LeRoy Christie passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024, in Ames, Iowa. He was 89.

Dick was born and raised in Battle Creek, Iowa, on June 6, 1934, to Henry Gladden Christie and Marion Anna (Ludwig) Christie. Dick loved his hometown and he returned often to the place where his life of service and hard work began, always looking forward to seeing old friends and classmates.

As a boy, he worked at jobs that included candling eggs, measuring milk’s cream content, helping his parents at their Battle Creek produce station and delivering milk and newspapers.

After graduating from Battle Creek Independent High School, he enrolled at Iowa State University. As a student, Dick paid his way through college, working two or more jobs at a time, while also enrolled in ROTC. While at Iowa State, he met a beautiful girl named Sharon Ann Sills from nearby Nevada, Iowa. Richard and Sharon were married on August 19, 1956, and raised a family of four daughters.

After earning his ISU bachelor’s degree in industrial administration, he joined the U.S. Army as an officer, serving in active duty from 1957 to 1959. He was in the Army Reserve from 1959 to 1963, ending his service as a first lieutenant. While in the Army, he attended Air Defense School and Nike Field Artillery Maintenance School.

Dick’s long career with Iowa Public Service Company, then later MidAmerican Energy, spanned nearly four decades. He held several key roles in the company, including area manager in Cherokee, Iowa; rate analyst; load research analyst; and corporate planning analyst. He served many of those years in Sioux City, and was working in Des Moines when he retired in 1995. On his lunch hour, Dick could be found running many miles or playing handball with his colleagues.

He was active in several civic groups in the communities where he and his family called home, including the Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce and Jaycees. After retiring, he was a volunteer for the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the World Food Prize Foundation.

He served his Lutheran churches in several leadership roles, including confirmation teacher, church council and elder. He and Sharon belonged to a Bible study in Sioux City with other couples that became lifelong friends. They were most recently members of Bethesda Lutheran Church in Ames. Dick loved to travel with Sharon and his four girls, often three-week road trips with a tent and six sleeping bags. He was very proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He liked to tell people he had 11 grandchildren and “only nine of them were boys.”

He was an ISU Extension Master Gardener and active in the Des Moines Men’s Garden Club. In retirement, he worked part-time as the local tomato expert at the Earl May Garden Center. He loved fishing, beginning with boyhood visits with his father to Black Hawk Lake in Lake View, Iowa, and later in life on fishing trips with friends to Canada. Food, cooking, sharing meals and participating in a Gourmet Club with friends from Cherokee were important parts of Dick and Sharon’s lives.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his sister, Maredith; and a great-grandson, Everett Mulfinger.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sharon Ann (Sills) Christie; their four daughters: Kee Ann (Stephen) Mulfinger, Hornick, Iowa, Tara (Stephen) Rocco, Greenville, Rhode Island, Janell (Brian) Meyer, Ames, Iowa, and Willow (John) Buscemi, Darien, Connecticut; 11 grandchildren: Taylor (Ann) Mulfinger, Shoreview, MN, David (Katharine) Mulfinger, Eldridge, IA, Evan (Angelica) Mulfinger, Liscomb, IA, Dylan (Michelle) Mulfinger, Oelwein, IA, Brendan (Kessia) Rocco, Milford, MA, Kendra (William, Jr) Rose, Middleboro, MA, Grant (Amy) Rocco, Plainville, MA, Truman Meyer, Moline, IL, Griffin Meyer, Omaha, NE, Jack Buscemi, Darien, CT, Serafina Buscemi, Darien, CT; and 10 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life gathering with military rites will be held at a later date.

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Dr. Costas M. Soukoulis - January 15, 1951 - March 14, 2024

Departed: 03/14/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Dr. Costas M. Soukoulis, age 73, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Iowa State University, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024 surrounded by his family.

Born in Greece, he received his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Chicago. He was the recipient of many awards and prizes in his career. In his spare time, Costas loved traveling and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Angela; son, Victor, daughter-in-law; and granddaughter. He loved his family very much.

Per his wishes, there will be no services.

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Mary Louise Frahm - September 22, 1930 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Mary Louise (Dyer) Frahm, 93, of Ames, Iowa, died peacefully on March 12, 2024. She lived a rich life of service to others, rooted in her strong Christian faith.

Born September 22, 1930, in Indianola, Iowa, to Leslie and Gula (Weir) Dyer, Mary grew up on a farm south of Indianola, where she graduated from high school in 1948. She attended Simpson College, and later graduated magna cum laude from Tarkio College, Missouri in 1954.

Mary and Rev. Warren J. Frahm were married in 1957, and they remained very much a team in ministry throughout their lives together. She took much responsibility in Christian Education as they pastored churches in Morning Sun (1955-59), Immanuel United Presbyterian Church in Waterloo (1959-1969) and Northminster Presbyterian Church in Ames (1969-1988). In 1988, they left Ames for five years to serve as administrators of the Presbyterian Camp on Lake Okoboji. After “retiring” in 1993, they together remained active serving churches across Iowa, including McCallsburg Presbyterian (1997-2004).

She generously gave of her time and talents, including cooking thousands of meals through programs at Bethesda and St. Andrews Lutheran Churches and the Presbyterian Camp on Lake Okoboji. Mary was a leader in Campfire Girls, Cub Scouts, PTOs, Church Women United, Worldly Goods, Ames Woman’s Club, Heartland Senior Services, numerous Presbyterian and Presbyterian Women’s organizations and the Northcrest Retirement Community after moving there with Warren in 2005.

It was very important to Mary that everyone felt connected, and they knew they mattered. Time spent together with friends and family was a priority, often involving card playing and board games of all kinds, puzzles and food. She loved reading and maintaining correspondence with her vast community of friends. She regularly organized family gatherings and neighborhood traditions, including Christmas caroling. She was well known for inviting visitors and members of her church to her home for Sunday dinner with her family nearly every week. Famously, she won a Cadillac in 1956, and promptly drove it across the country and to friends and family to give them the opportunity to drive it for themselves.

She is survived by daughters, Janis Frahm of Austin, Texas, Susan Tucker (David) of Ames; and son, Daniel (Darci) Frahm of Davidson, North Carolina; grandchildren: Ryan and Lindsey Tucker, Gabriel, Eliana and Athan Frahm, Amanda and Lance Frahm; two great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren Frahm; son, David Frahm; brothers, Ivil and Donald Dyer; and sister Margaret McCoy.

Memorial services will be held at 3:30 P.M. on Friday, March 29, 2024 at Collegiate Presbyterian Church in Ames, with a reception following.  The service will be livestreamed and a link will be available under the Events Section of Mary's obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website.

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Carlotta "Dee" DeeAnn Winkler - February 05, 1966 - March 10, 2024

Departed: 03/10/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Carlotta “Dee” DeeAnn Winkler, age 58, of Ames, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024 surrounded by her family, under the compassionate care of the Israel Family Hospice House.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. on Friday, April 5, 2024 at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Ave., Ames, where there will be a Memorial Service held at 5:00 P.M.

Dee was born on February 5, 1966 at the Navy Base in Norfolk, VA to Clinton Clifford Glenn and Dixie Diana Law. She was married to Karl Winkler and they were blessed with two children. The couple later divorced.

Dee was a strong, hardworking woman. She worked for Sigler, the Ames Tribune in early years and was fortunate to work at Mainstream Living most recently. She was loved by her clients and coworkers.

In her spare time, Dee loved to garden, spend time with her family and being outdoors. She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone.

Dee is survived by her son, John (Christina) Winkler of Ames; her granddaughter, Mariah Pratt of Ames; her parents; her brother, Clinton Don Glenn; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Katelyne Pratt; her maternal and paternal grandparents; and aunts and uncles.

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Robert E. Van Voorhis - June 11, 1952 - March 06, 2024

Departed: 03/06/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Robert (Bob) Encell Van Voorhis Jr. passed away at 12:15 am on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 at Mary Greeley Medical Center’s Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa after living with lung cancer for nearly 8 years. Cremation services will be performed by Adams Funeral Home, and a Celebration of Life will be held at Sweet Caroline’s in Ames on Saturday, March 23 from 4-7 pm.

Bob was born in Ames, Iowa at Mary Greeley Hospital on June 11th, 1952 to Marian Jean (Van Buskirk) and Robert Encell Van Voorhis Sr. He attended Roosevelt Elementary School, Central Junior High, and graduated from Ames High School in 1970. He loved all-night games of Risk with his high school friends, loved playing baseball and collecting baseball cards, and was a Life Scout.

Bob announced at the age of 6 that he was going to be a Cyclone. He attended Iowa State University, double majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication and History and graduating in the spring of 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree. During his college years, in addition to attending Cyclone sporting events, he participated in several intramural sports, went on ski trips with his friends, served as a member of the VEISHEA Central Committee in 1973 and 1974, and was an active member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.

Following graduation, his early career led him to Cedar Falls where he worked for General Growth at College Square Mall as the marketing manager. He worked for several advertising agencies, including Rich Penn & Associates, and eventually became the Editor-in-Chief of TeleProfessional Magazine. While at TeleProfessional, Bob had the privilege of traveling internationally. He visited The Netherlands, Scotland, Ireland, Belgium, and France.

While living in Cedar Falls, Bob met Marcy (McCombs) Van Voorhis at a volleyball party hosted by close family friends in Grinnell. They hit it off at the party, and the rest is history. They were united in marriage at St. Timothy’s United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls, and settled in to their first home. Bob and Marcy raised their 3 children in Cedar Falls, and moved to Lake Ponderosa in 2005, followed by a move back to Ames in 2012.

Bob enjoyed many hobbies and pastimes. He was an avid reader and a music enthusiast who enjoyed playing the guitar with friends and occasionally joined the band Baby Moon and the Whitewalls as a guest guitarist. Living in Cedar Falls, his family spent their Friday nights watching Bob play League softball, his team sponsored by The Panther Lounge. While living on Lake Ponderosa, Bob spent his free time cruising the lake on his boat, the Bontekoe II. Above all, Bob’s favorite hobby was cheering on his beloved Cyclones. He held Football season tickets for many years, and enjoyed tailgating with friends and family before and after the games. Even when watching from home, you would find him in his recliner, Busch Light in hand, decked out from head to toe in Cardinal and Gold to wish his Cyclones good luck.

Bob is survived by his wife Marcy; his children Sara (James) Sherman of Ames, Amanda Lincoln, of Ames, and Jeff (Madison) Van Voorhis of Minneapolis; his sister Victoria Van Voorhis of Ames; grandchildren Madison and Ethan Roberts of Cedar Falls, Nora and Coen Sherman of Ames, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, Delt brothers, and friends. He will be missed by many.

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Robert "Bob" J. Cowley - June 13, 1927 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” Joseph Cowley, 96, finally met his Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face on Monday, March 4, 2024. He was also welcomed home by his bride, Virginia and people of many tribes and tongues he served throughout his lifetime.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at CrossRoad Baptist Church, 57011 Hwy 30, Ames. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial with Military Honors will be held at 3:00 P.M. in the Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery in Waterloo.  Bob's funeral service will be livestreamed and a link will be available under the Events Section of his obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website.

Born June 13, 1927 in Dows, Iowa, Bob grew up as a farm kid. He pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering at Iowa State University in 1952, interrupted by four years of service in the Navy on aircraft carriers as a radio tech from 1945 to 1949. After meeting the love of his life, Virginia, through Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, they married in 1951. They moved to an apartment in Chicago where Robert completed the Moody Bible Institute’s Missionary Aviation program and was ordained at Belden Avenue Baptist Church in Chicago in 1958. After studying French in Paris for 18 months, he moved his family to Africa in 1960, where he spent 33 years as a missionary pilot. He was part of church planting, preaching the Good News of salvation through Jesus, building missionary stations and medical facilities, conducting medical evacuation flights, and supply/transportation flights for the missionaries in Niger, Ivory Coast and Mali.

Bob “retired” from Africa in 1993 and moved to Ames, Iowa, where he and Virginia continued their ministry to international students through Crossroad Baptist Church at the Iowa State campus for approximately 30 more years. They taught English classes, Bible studies, developed relationships and discipled students from countless countries worldwide who came to the US to study. Many of those students returned to their native countries to plant churches and make disciples of Jesus among their own people. Robert’s legacy is one of telling as many people as possible about Jesus’ death on a cross as a complete substitute for the penalty of sin, so that those who trust in Him would receive eternal life, rather than eternal death. He believed and proclaimed from the Bible, “Whoever has the Son (Jesus) has life.” I John 5:12 Bob had a voracious appetite for seafood (including blind robins) and his wife’s five-star cooking. He was always up on the latest technology, even outdoing some of his kids and grandkids with his computer knowledge and skills. He very much enjoyed visits with his children and grandchildren.

Bob is survived by five children: Linda (Ronald) Banghart, Daniel (Priscilla) Cowley, David (Cheryl) Cowley, Judith (Philip) Schmidt, and Joyce (Daniel) Dreisbach; 19 grandchildren and 47 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Lilian (Finders) Cowley; his parents, Joseph and Leora (Fairbanks) Cowley; his brother, Frank Cowley; his sister, Cynthia Cowley; and several great-grandchildren.

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Robert "Bob" G. Helmers - June 30, 1952 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” G. Helmers, 71, of Ames passed away on March 4, 2024 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Graveside services will be Saturday March 9th at 11:00 am at Ames Municipal Cemetery. A Celebration of his life will be at a later date later this summer.

Bob was born on June 30, 1952 in Sibley, Iowa to Roger and Dorothy (David) Helmers. He graduated from Sibley High School and then Iowa State University with a degree in Telecommunications. He married Diane Boudinot on April 12, 1980. Bob was general manager for WOI-TV for many years and produced many games for ESPN and Creative Sports.

Bob was an avid Iowa State fan and enjoyed watching NCAA basketball and football games on tv and liked to watch old recordings of games and shows that he produced and directed. He liked to do his Barbeque grilling and watching West Wing and MASH on tv.

Bob is survived by his son, Mike (Ty) Helmers of Ames; Kimberly (Ryan) Standard of Denver, CO; a granddaughter, Maddie; his two brothers, Gary (CeCe) Helmers of California and Rod (Donna) Helmers of Florida and his dog Callie that gave him so much joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Diane.

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Lee Morgan Sargent - June 23, 1946 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Lee Morgan Sargent, 77, died unexpectedly Sunday, March 3, 2024 at his home in Ames.

A Graveside Service for family and close friends will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at the Ames Municipal Cemetery. There will be a Celebration of Life held from 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. on Tuesday at Todd and Sargent, Inc., 2905 SE 5th Street, Ames.

Lee Morgan Sargent was born June 23, 1946, in Appleton, WI, the son of Warren and Margaret (Morgan) Sargent. His family moved to Pittsburgh, PA, and then briefly to Warren, PA, before settling in Ames, IA in 1958. Growing up, Lee enjoyed spending time at Clear Lake with his siblings and many first cousins at his grandparents’ house on the lake. Lee graduated from Ames High in 1964. He was a great high school athlete, holding the State of Iowa pole vault record for several years. He wed his high school sweetheart, Sherry (Taylor) Sargent, on August 29, 1964.

Todd & Sargent was a major part of Lee’s life. He started working for the company part-time while still in high school and was hired full-time after graduating from Iowa State University with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. Through his early career, Lee held the roles of Vice President of Engineering and Vice President of Operations. In 1983, he became President of Todd & Sargent and added the title of Chief Executive Officer in 1990. During his tenure, Lee led the company through much growth throughout both the United States and Canada. He retired in 2019 after more than 50 years with the company but remained active as Chairman of the Board. Through the years, Lee had affiliations with many groups including Construction Management Association, Associated Builders & Contractors, American Feed Industry Association, National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, Kansas State University Feed Science Advisory Board, and National Fire Protection Association 61 Board. Lee was also very active in both YPO and WPO which led to many amazing experiences and lasting relationships.

In spite of losing both of his children too young, Lee maintained his sense of humor and zeal for life. He and Sherry enjoyed spending the winter months in Scottsdale, AZ and traveling all over the world, including cruises to all seven continents. He was blessed with many great friends and loved the companionship of his Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Lee was also an accomplished private pilot who enjoyed flying much of his adult life; he achieved the coveted goal of as many safe landings as takeoffs. He greatly enjoyed woodworking, golfing with friends, and more recently Lego which he would assemble and then disassemble to share with others. He was known for his impressive winning streaks when flipping coins for lunch bills, and for how well he told stories.

Lee is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sherry Sargent of Ames; sister, Ann (Rob) Samuels of Saint Louis, MO; brothers Phil (Susan) Sargent of Fraser, CO, and Dan (Pam) Sargent of Ames; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his children Kurt Matthew Sargent in 1990 and Catherine Michelle Sargent in 2006.

Lee’s legacy lives on in the structures he engineered, the company he built, and the lives he impacted as a friend and leader.

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James Lewis - February 14, 1961 - February 29, 2024

Departed: 02/29/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: James R. Lewis, age 63, passed away on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Mary Greely Medical Center.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Full obituary pending.

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Denise E. Ingebritsen - November 27, 1952 - February 25, 2024

Departed: 02/25/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Denise E. Ingebritsen, age 71, of Ames, passed away on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Ave., Ames. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, March 1, 2024 at Christ Community Church, 5501 George Washington Carver Ave., Ames. Burial will be in the Ontario Cemetery.

Born on November 27, 1952 at the Dallas County Hospital in Perry, Denise was the daughter of Garold and Alice Jane (Stickel) McMullin. She attended Washington Township country school until 8th grade and graduated from Minburn High School in 1970. She attended Iowa Central Community College for one year, before moving to Ames. Denise worked as a secretary at Iowa State University.

Denise was united in married to Tom Ingebritsen on April 10, 1993 at Great Commission Church in Ames. Following their marriage, Denise was a homemaker, raising their younger son Isaac who was adopted from Russia. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing softball. Denise was a member of Christ Community Church.

Denise is survived by her husband, Tom of Ames; her children, Eric Ingebritsen of Tampa, Florida, Isaac Ingebritsen of Ames, and Tracy (Rich) Mattison of Knoxville, Tennessee; two granddaughters, Emma Mattison and Savannah Mattison; a sister, Diane (Joe) McCarty of Perry; and a sister-in-law, Donna McMullin of Mesa, Arizona; a niece, Allison (Brian) Matheney; and two nephews Brad and Todd McMullin. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Dan McMullin; and a nephew, Scott McMullin

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Dr. M. Ali Tabatabai - February 25, 1934 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: February 15, 2024, Dr. M. Ali Tabatabai, 89, of Ames, Iowa, transitioned peacefully at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa with his beloved wife Louisa (Braal) and family by his side.

Ali, the 4th of 8 children, was born on February 25, 1934, to Abdul Hussein and Amina Sami Tabatabai in Karbala, Iraq. He grew up in Karbala, Iraq and studied Agricultural Sciences at the Agricultural University of Abu Ghraib in Bagdad, graduating with a BS degree in 1958. Ali commenced his studies towards a Master’s degree of Science to study soil chemistry of arid soils at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He received his Master’s degree in 1960. Professor Jouett Russell of Lincoln, Nebraska and formerly of Abu Ghraib, recommended him for an assistantship for the PhD degree in Soils and Plant Nutrition at the University of California at Berkeley where he met Louisa. Meeting in the department they both worked in, they got engaged in December and married the following year on September 8, 1962. Together they moved to Ames, Iowa in 1963 where Ali became professor of agronomy at Iowa State University. For Ali, work was happiness and his passion. He was very proud of his own education, research, and helping others towards advanced degrees.

Ali is survived by his wife of 61 years Louisa; children Fareed (Cara), Layth (Ann) and Janine (Tom); and nine grandchildren: Justin, Taylor, Nicole (Chris Blythe) Ramsey (Taylor), AJ, Rachel, Jenna, Barron and Zaid; brothers Kasim (Donna) of Austin Texas, and Tahir (Rabab) of London, UK and numerous nephews and nieces in the US, UK, Iraq and Iran. He was preceded in death by his father, Abdul Hussein Al-Tabatabai, his mother Amina, brother Ibrahim, and sisters Zakina, Rabab, Saffia, and Fakhria.

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Sandra Lee Partlow - April 12, 1941 - February 13, 2024

Departed: 02/13/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Sandra Lee (Scheuermann) Partlow, 82, of Indianola, and formerly of Ames, passed away comfortably in her home on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.

Sandra was born on April 12, 1941, in Des Moines, the daughter of William and Betty Scheuermann. She grew up in Ames and graduated from Ames High School.

Sandra was united in marriage to Errol Noble Partlow on June 13, 1959, at the Gilbert Lutheran Church in Gilbert.

Sandra had many bookkeeping jobs around Iowa, before working for 20 years at the Army ROTC at Iowa State University. She enjoyed quilting, puzzles, gardening (flowers), singing and her dogs.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Noel Errol Partlow and Christopher Noel Partlow.

Sandra is survived by her husband of 68 years Errol Partlow of Indianola; daughter, Kimberly Ann Roth of Ankeny; two grandchildren, Brooke Stinson and Cody Noel Roth; four great-grandchildren, Paige Stinson, Hayden Roth, Khloe Stinson and Marley Roth.

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Pauline Craig - March 02, 1926 - February 09, 2024

Departed: 02/09/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Pauline Craig, 97, of Ames, passed away Friday, February 9, 2024, in Charlene’s Place at Bethany Life in Story City.

A private family service will be held.

Pauline was born March 2, 1926, in Roland, the daughter of Malcom and Louise (Stensen) Larson. She graduated from Roland High School in 1944.

Pauline was united in marriage to Kenneth Craig on August 5, 1945, when he was home on leave from the US Army during WWII. They celebrated 61 years of marriage before Kenneth passed away in 2006.

Pauline was a member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Ames and enjoyed baking, gardening, traveling and spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kenneth; and sister, Dorothy Hanson.

Pauline is survived by her five children, Cynthia (Jeff) Cox of Highlands, NC, David (Kim) Craig Eugene, OR, Steven (Debra) Craig of Coos Bay, OR, Sharon (Mick) Bestland of Hayward, WI and Carla (Randi) Jepsen of Ames; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Max Larson of Story City.

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William "Bill" C. Wise - February 07, 1948 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: William “Bill” Clair Wise, age 76, of Ames, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at the Households of Bethany in Story City.

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Orlin "Clare" Tweedt - September 16, 1935 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Orlin “Clare” Tweedt (88) of Ames, went to his Eternal Home on February 8, 2024, at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ames. Burial with Military Honors will be held at Palestine Cemetery in Huxley, Iowa, directly afterwards.  The service will be livestreamed and a link is available under the Events Section of Clare's obituary on the Adams Funeral Home website.

Clare, the youngest of ten children, was born on September 16, 1935, to Burney and Clara (Lee) Tweedt on their farm south of Huxley. He was baptized and confirmed at Palestine Lutheran Church in rural Huxley. Clare graduated from Huxley High School in 1953 and entered the U.S. Army after graduation. He served from 1954 to 1956 in a Nike Guided Missile Battalion. After an honorable discharge, he attended the Central Technical Institute in Kansas City, Missouri, where he graduated in November 1958 with an A.S. degree in Electrical Engineering.

After graduation, Clare went to work at Collins Radio Company in Cedar Rapids from 1958 to 1971. While living in Cedar Rapids, he met the love of his life, Carolyn Glassel. They were married at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa on August 27, 1961. While living in Cedar Rapids, their union was blessed with two sons, Donald and Robert. In January 1972 Clare began employment with the Ames Laboratory at Iowa State University and retired in 1997. Clare’s family lived in Huxley, Iowa from 1972 to 1983. While living in Huxley, Clare served on the City Council and managed Little League Baseball.

From Huxley, Clare and Carolyn moved to Ames. Clare and Carolyn have been members of St. Paul Lutheran Church since 1983 where he served both as Elder and on the Board of Trustees until he was unable to serve due to his failing health.

Clare very much enjoyed listening to Southern/Country gospel music. After retirement, he enjoyed bowling in the Ames Senior League. He volunteered for the Iowa Games in the bowling competition and worked as a Precinct Election official for many years.

Clare is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; and his two sons, Donald Lee Tweedt of Ames, and Robert Clare Tweedt (Tina) of Ankeny; four grandchildren, Aaron (Lindsay), Zachary (Sydney Coussens) and Jessica all of Ankeny and Grace of Madison, Wisconsin; one great-granddaughter Guinevere of Ankeny; one sister, Frances Olson of Houston, Texas; and many loving nieces and nephews, great and great-great nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers: Norman, Kenneth, Donald, Burnie; and four sisters: Gladys Barnes, Buelah Allen, Mildred Brown, and Wilma Shiery; eight nephews and four nieces; five brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law.

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Kevin J. Moore - September 07, 1963 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Ames)

Obituary Preview: Kevin J. Moore, age 60, of Gilbert, passed away on February 8, 2024 at Mary Greeley Medical Center.

A public visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Ave., Ames. Additionally, a private family funeral service will be held. Please reach out to the family for more details on this service.

Born on September 7, 1963 in Marshalltown, Iowa, Kevin was the son of Jerry Moore and Karen Leckness (Jones). He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1981. Kevin was a co-owner of Bentley Custom Services and owner of Snow and Moore, where he specialized in painting, construction and snow removal. He was endearingly known as Feather Kevi to everyone who had the pleasure of working with him.

Kevin was a self-taught drummer and played in several bands over the years. He was a former member of North Grand Christian Church where he played in the worship band. When he wasn’t working he spent his free time with his children and grandchildren camping, boating, fishing, or driving one of his many toys. He loved being on the water as long as he didn’t have to get in it.

Kevin was a non biological father, brother, and son to many. He is survived by his six children: Roman (Abbey) Malone of Boone, Josh Mull (Amber Day) of Boone, Katlin Moore of Walnut Creek, CA, Trevor Moore of Ames, Sadie Omundson of Gilbert, and Jaden Moore of Nevada; five grandchildren: Aliyah Moore, Weston Moore, Hayden Malone, Henry Malone, and Indie O’Clair; a sister, Rebecca (Wayne) Tietje of Marshalltown; and many extended relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Katherine K. Moore and Kris Zeeser.

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Caring Cremation Services

Understanding that many families are now opting for cremation, Adams Funeral Home provides a variety of cremation services, from direct cremation to those paired with memorial services. Recognizing the importance of handling such arrangements with care, they offer guidance through each step of the cremation process, ensuring that it is performed with the utmost dignity and respect for the wishes of the deceased and their family.

Pre-Planning Assistance

Adams Funeral Home understands the value of planning ahead and offers pre-planning services to alleviate the future emotional and financial burden on loved ones. Pre-planning provides peace of mind for all involved, allowing individuals to express their wishes in advance and ensuring that their final arrangements reflect their personal values and life story.

Grief Resources and Support

The journey through grief is a challenging one, and Adams Funeral Home & Cremation Service offers a wealth of resources to support individuals as they navigate this difficult time. From personalized grief support to access to carefully curated materials and recommended support groups, they are dedicated to providing ongoing comfort and assistance long after the services have concluded.

Making Arrangements During Difficult Times

The compassionate team at Adams Funeral Home is acutely aware that losing a loved one is a profound and difficult experience. They are committed to simplifying the process by handling all the practicalities of funeral arrangements. This includes completing necessary paperwork, coordinating with cemeteries, and facilitating any religious or cultural ceremonies, ensuring families can focus on honoring their loved one's memory without added stress.

An Established Presence in the Ames Community

As an integral part of the Ames community, Adams Funeral Home is deeply invested in the lives of the families it serves. This connection is evident not only in their personalized services but also through their involvement in local events and organizations. By fostering strong relationships with community members, they continually provide a crucial support system during times of loss.

Dignified Facilities for Reflection and Remembrance

The facilities at Adams Funeral Home offer a serene and comforting environment for families to gather, reflect, and celebrate the lives of their loved ones. The well-appointed spaces are designed to accommodate groups of varying sizes, providing a fitting backdrop for both intimate and larger services. With an eye for detail, the funeral home ensures that every aspect of their facilities contributes to a peaceful and respectful atmosphere.

Contact and Accessibility Information

Adams Funeral Home & Cremation Service is located at 502 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA, 50010, and is accessible to the entire community. The staff is available to answer any questions or concerns and can be reached for immediate assistance or to discuss pre-planning options. Understanding the importance of accessibility, they offer flexible scheduling and are committed to being available when they are needed most. For further information, the funeral home encourages direct contact to discuss how they can best meet your funeral service needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice of a person's death, often published in a newspaper or online. It typically includes a brief summary of their life, their family members, important milestones, and information about any planned memorial services or funerals.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve to inform the community of an individual’s passing and to celebrate their life. They also provide details about planned services and act as a record of historical significance for future generations.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

An obituary is a longer, more detailed account of a person's life and death, often including biographical details and personal stories. A death notice is typically a brief, factual announcement of the death, with basic service information and is often paid for by the family.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or the funeral home handling the arrangements. In some cases, individuals write their own obituaries in advance, to be published upon their death.

What information is usually included in an obituary?

Obituaries generally include the full name of the deceased, dates of birth and death, a list of surviving family members, a brief biography, significant life achievements, and details of the funeral or memorial service.

How long after a death is an obituary published?

The timing of an obituary's publication can vary. It often appears within a week of the death but can depend on the publication schedule of the newspaper or website or the wishes of the family.

Where can I find obituaries?

Obituaries can be found in local newspapers, on funeral home websites, and on various online obituary and memorial platforms. Libraries and historical societies often keep archives of past obituaries as well.

Is it mandatory to publish an obituary?

No, publishing an obituary is not a legal requirement. It is done at the discretion of the family and may sometimes be influenced by cultural or societal norms.

Can an obituary be published anywhere else besides newspapers?

Yes, obituaries can also be published online, in church bulletins, society newsletters, or trade publications, reflecting the deceased's involvement in communities and industries.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost varies widely depending on the publication or platform, length of the obituary, and the inclusion of photos. Some online platforms may offer free postings, while newspapers typically charge by the line or word.

Can obituaries be rejected or edited by a newspaper?

Yes, newspapers have the right to reject or edit obituaries for content, length, and adherence to their publication standards. It is important to review and understand a newspaper's submission guidelines before submitting an obituary.

How do I write a meaningful obituary?

To write a meaningful obituary, gather comprehensive information about the person’s life, highlight their unique qualities and achievements, and include personal anecdotes or quotes that reflect their character and impact on others.

What should I do if I find an error in an obituary?

If you find an error in an obituary, contact the publication or website where it is hosted as soon as possible to request a correction. Most publications are willing to correct factual errors promptly.

Is it appropriate to include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes, it is common to include details about preferred charities where donations can be sent in lieu of flowers. This can honor the deceased's memory and support causes they cared about.

What is the protocol for listing survivors in an obituary?

The typical protocol is to list immediate family members first, such as spouses and children, followed by grandchildren, great-grandchildren, parents, siblings, and then extended family members and close friends, if space allows.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or website?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper or website, first review their guidelines for submission, which usually include format, length, and any supporting documents needed, such as a death certificate. You can then typically submit it via email, an online form, or through the funeral home.

Can anyone submit an obituary, or does it have to be a family member?

While traditionally submitted by family members, an obituary can be written and submitted by anyone who was close to the deceased, provided they have the necessary information and permission from the family.

Are photos included in obituaries?

Yes, photos can be included in obituaries, but there may be additional costs for their publication in print media. Online obituaries often allow the upload of several photos.

How can I ensure an obituary respects the deceased's privacy?

To respect privacy, include only information that the deceased would have been comfortable sharing publicly. Avoid details that could lead to identity theft, such as full birthdates or addresses. Consult with the family about their preferences for privacy.

What if the deceased didn't want an obituary?

If the deceased explicitly did not wish for an obituary, the family should respect those wishes. However, the family may consider other forms of celebrating the person's life, such as a private memorial service or by sharing memories in a more personal setting.

Can obituaries be updated after publication?

In print, once an obituary is published, it typically cannot be updated. Online obituaries may have the flexibility to edit or update information, but it is best to ensure all details are accurate before publication to avoid the need for corrections.