Mittelstadt Funeral Home Obituaries

Introduction to Mittelstadt Funeral Home

Mittelstadt Funeral Home, located at 902 East Main St., Lake Mills, IA, 50450, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the people of Lake Mills and surrounding areas, Mittelstadt Funeral Home has established itself as a trusted and respected name in the funeral industry.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

Mittelstadt Funeral Home is dedicated to providing exceptional service to each and every family they serve. Their team of experienced funeral directors and staff are committed to ensuring that every detail is taken care of, from the initial consultation to the final farewell. They understand that losing a loved one is never easy, and they strive to make the funeral planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Leone Nadine Milbrandt - October 17, 1924 - May 13, 2024

Departed: 05/13/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Leone Nadine Milbrandt, age 99, of Buffalo Center, IA, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 13, 2024, at the Timely Mission Nursing Home in Buffalo Center, IA.

Funeral services for Leone will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the First Congregational Church, 201 2nd St. N.W., Buffalo Center, IA 50424, with Pastor Tim Diehl officiating.

Visitation will take place Friday at the church one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in Olena Mound Cemetery in Buffalo Center.

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Marilyn Rae Heimdal - April 02, 1943 - May 07, 2024

Departed: 05/07/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Marilyn R. Heimdal, age 81 of Forest City, IA, passed away under hospice care at the Hancock County Medical Center in Britt, IA on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

Funeral services for Marilyn will be at 10:30 AM on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church, 3906 Bluebill Ave. Joice, IA 50446, with Pastor John Olson officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow the service at the church cemetery.

Marilyn Rae (Witham) was born on April 2, 1943 on the family farm in Worth. Co., IA to parents Robert B. and Myrtle B. (Flugum) Witham. She grew up outside of Lake Mills, IA and graduated from Lake Mills High School. Marilyn was a lifetime member of Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church. She was baptized, confirmed, and married there.

Marilyn married Merlyn Heimdal in November of 1960 at Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church. To this union, five daughters were born. The couple would later divorce. Through a mutual fondness of gardening, Marilyn was introduced to her neighbor, Pete Riekena. The two would later marry and spend many years together until his death. After his death, Marilyn and Merlyn rekindled their relationship, and were re-married in 2011. Sadly, Merlyn would pass away that same year.

Marilyn worked at the Good Samaritan Society in Forest City as a Nurses Aide for many years. She enjoyed growing her vegetable and flower garden, baking, reading, and loved to entertain, hosting many family events at her home. Marilyn took an interest in her children’s and later her grandchildren’s extracurricular activities. She was funny, outgoing, encouraging, and loved to talk. She was a caregiver at heart.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Teresa (William) Clausen of Mason City, IA, Tanya (Dale) Borg of Forest City, IA, Valarie (Craig) Swalve of Garner, IA, Vicki (Randy) Hopp of Florida, and Natalie (Jerry) Black of Arizona; grandchildren, Jeremy (Kellie) Hauge, Ben (Julie) Hauge, Melissa Borg, Myshelle (Trevor) Rhodes, Micah (Mikala) Heimdal, Nicole (Eric) Heinicke, Jessica Nitcher, and Justin (Jessica) Hugo; great-grandchildren, Kinzley, Beckett, Boston, and Baylor Hauge, Logan Olsen, Shannon O’Neal, Monique Castelli, Jayden and Lincoln Rhodes, Deklan, Kayleigh, Molly, and Riley Heimdal, Aida and Marcus Heinicke, Tyler Nitcher, and Roan Hugo; siblings, Jeanne (Gordie) Hacker of Emmons, MN, Wendy (Barry) Bendickson of Forest City, IA, and Rick (Lisa) Witham of Arizona; an aunt, Arlene Roberts of Mason City, IA; as well as several extended relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by both parents; husbands, Merlyn Heimdal and Pete Riekena; grandson, Matt Hauge, a brother in-law, Wayne Hopkins, and a brother in infancy.

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Laura Jean Zenk - June 02, 1962 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Laura Jean Zenk, age 61, of Emmons, MN, passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at the Lake Mills Care Center after a courageous battle with brain cancer.

Visitation for Laura will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at Schott Funeral Homes, Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 E. Main St. Lake Mills, IA 50450, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Funeral services for Laura will be held at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Due to the expected attendance, the service will be hosted at Emmons Lutheran Church, 490 Pearl St. Emmons, MN 56029, with Pastor Glenn Smith from Lime Creek Synod Church officiating.

Interment will follow the service at Lime Creek Synod Cemetery, rural Lake Mills, IA.

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Barbara Kay Nickson - January 14, 1959 - April 05, 2024

Departed: 04/05/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Barbara “Barb” Kay (Stille) Nickson, 65, died Friday, April 5, 2024 peacefully at her home in rural Lake Mills, Iowa.

Barb was born on January 14, 1959 in Britt, Iowa to Gerald “Jerry” and Marlys (Steenhard) Stille. She grew up in LuVerne, Iowa before transplanting to Lake Mills where she graduated high school in 1977 and lived the remainder of her life.

On March 30, 1985, she was wed to Lee Jay Nickson at Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills. Lee joined Barb and her two daughters Brook Kelly and Toni Lynn and later together, Lee and Barb, had a son, Brett Gerald.

Barb worked many years at Fleetguard Filtration, before joining forces with her husband Lee in the NAPA Auto Parts business in Lake Mills. Together they owned and ran NAPA for 35 years. They fully retired in 2023.

Barb loved her children and grandchildren. She supported them in all activities from the crowd with a smile you could see for miles. Her love and support was infectious. She was kind, humble, and an example of perseverance. Her most recent greatest memory is dancing with Brett at his wedding and inviting Alex to the family in October.

Barb loved colorful flowers, birds and bird feeders, gardening with her parents, and her dog, Bubba. Lee and Barb enjoyed motorcycling and atv-ing, hosting family and friends in the Big Red Barn, and spending time at their house in Texas, where they were fortunate enough to visit one last time in February and March. Barb was also a crafter that was always looking forward to a new project to create.

Lee loved Barb through sickness and in health. Barb and Lee built a beautiful life and family together. Many people have witnessed the devotion between the two. They were truly soulmates in every way. They brought a balance to each other's lives. Barb was the social one and Lee was the man of funny one liners. Lee could be the handy man while Barb was the crafty. They flourished on being what the other needed in all aspects of what life brought to them.

Survivors include her husband of 39 years, Lee Nickson; mother Marlys Stille, Lake Mills; daughters Brook (Mathew) Christianson, Lake Mills, Toni (Jared) Nicol, Johnston, IA; son Brett (Alex) Nickson, Lake Mills; grandchildren Kit, Dottie, and Betsy Byars, Lake Mills; Jate, Sadie, and Audrey Nicol, Johnston, IA; sister Denise (Tim) Korn, Linn Valley, KS; brother-in-law Ken (Darcy) Nickson; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Barb is preceded in death by her father Jerry Stille; brother Rodney Stille; a nephew Dillin Nickson; parents-in-law Robert and Mildred Nickson; brother-in-law Jerry Nickson; sister-in-law JoAnn Mildred Nickson; and her grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Memorial visitation will be on Sunday, April 14, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 E. Main St. in Lake Mills, and will continue one hour before the service at church on Monday.

A memorial service for Barb will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Salem Lutheran Church, 401 S. Lake St. in Lake Mills with Mr. Kermit Singelstad officiating.

Burial of her ashes will take place at a later date.

Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel has been entrusted to care for Barb and her family.

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Carroll "Red" Dean Reines - August 20, 1937 - March 09, 2024

Departed: 03/09/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Carroll “Red” Reines, age 86, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at his home in rural Lake Mills, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Winnebago Lutheran Church, 40029 210th Avenue, Lake Mills, with Pastor Bill Peters officiating.

Burial will be in the Winnebago Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Visitation will take place on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 E. Main St. in Lake Mills, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel in Lake Mills has been entrusted to care for Carroll and his family.

The service for Carroll will be livestreamed on the One in Christ Lutheran Parish YouTube channel.

Memorials may be directed to Winnebago Lutheran Church, or to the donor's choice.

Carroll Dean Reines was born on August 20, 1937 in rural Joice, Iowa to parents Conrad and Alpha (Brones) Reines. He was baptized and confirmed at West Prairie Lutheran Church, rural Leland, and graduated from Thompson High School in 1955. He farmed all his life, first with his father and then for himself. On June 24, 1967 he was united in marriage with Virgean Gustafson at Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills. They were blessed with four daughters: Carrie, Chris, Caryn and Carlynn, who provided Red and Virgean with 15 beloved grandchildren. Over the years, he volunteered with the LMCS School Board, Winnebago Lutheran Church Council, and Heartland Power Board of Directors. He enjoyed watching his grandkids’ sporting events, having coffee with friends, woodworking, fishing, golfing, and if Menards was a hobby…

There is a void in our family that cannot be filled. Red was #1Grandpa, he gave amazing hugs, his wisdom and good advice were hard to beat, he possessed a calm demeanor and tender heart even through life’s most difficult struggles, and he loved to praise God with his singing in church.

Survivors include his wife Virgean of Lake Mills; four daughters: Carrie (Bob) Moen of Lake Mills, Chris (Mark) Schmidt of Cumming, IA, Caryn (Jeff) Helgeson of Johnston, IA, and Carlynn (Scott) Pederson of Grimes, IA; and 15 grandchildren: Olivia, Leah & Ava Moen; David, Eric, Auna, Caitlin & Luke Schmidt; Caleb, Owen, Jacob & Chloe Helgeson; and Will, Max & Marshall Pederson. He is also survived by two sisters Cheryl Moore of Waterloo, IA, and Linda (Ken) Ferjak of Forest City, IA; two sisters-in-law, Janora (Russ) Hodges of Lake Mills, and Eileen Mestnik of Henderson, NV; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Conrad and Alpha; father- and mother-in-law, James and Orva Gustafson; a sister Marilyn (Eugene) Brady; and two brothers-in-law, James Moore and Jerome Mestnik.

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Robert Duane Johnson - May 24, 1931 - March 02, 2024

Departed: 03/02/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Robert D. “Bob” Johnson, age 92 of Lake Mills, died unexpectedly on Saturday, March 2, 2024 in Lake Mills, Iowa.

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Colleen Erica Menagh - June 28, 1992 - March 01, 2024

Departed: 03/01/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Colleen Erica Menagh, age 31 of Thompson, Iowa died unexpectedly on Friday, March 1, 2024 at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, following a brief illness.

A memorial service celebrating Colleen's life will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 183 2nd Avenue in Thompson, Iowa, with Pastor Rod Hopp officiating. Her family will be at the church an hour before to greet people.

Inurnment will take place at a later date at Rose Hill Cemetery in Thompson, near her mom Ruth and uncle Steve.

Colleen's service will be livestreamed. Go to www.schottfuneralhomes.com, go to Colleen's page, click on Tribute Wall, and you will find the link to watch the service.

Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel in Lake Mills has been entrusted with Colleen's care.

Colleen Erica Menagh was born on June 28, 1992 in Delano, California to parents John Robert “Rob” and Ruth Eileen (Coxson) Menagh. When she was an infant, the family moved from California to Iowa. Colleen attended and graduated from North Iowa High School in Buffalo Center in 2010 and went on to attend Riverland Community College in Austin, Minnesota for cosmetology. Following her licensure, she had jobs at Great Clips and Fantastic Sam’s in Albert Lea, MN, but finally found a “home” at Salon Embellish in Garner, Iowa. She adored her clients and co-workers in Garner, and was excited to go to work every day.

Outside of the salon, Colleen’s interests varied. She was really into the Renaissance Festival and looked forward to attending annually in Shakopee, MN, dressing for the occasion as well. Colleen spent time in South Korea during the summer of 2023 visiting her Aunt Pam and Uncle David, where she fell in love with the culture. Sight-seeing, trying traditional Korean cuisine, and becoming a fan of K-Pop are all things Colleen experienced while overseas. Colleen also liked the latest fashion, not just in clothing, but mostly in shoes! She owned countless pairs of shoes-some even still having their original tags.

Colleen will be greatly missed by her father Rob, sister Shannon, and brother John, all of Thompson, IA; aunts and uncles: Janet (Rick) Cloud of Bakersfield, CA, Pam Coxson & David Fairley of SanFrancisco, CA, Janice (Bill) Lynch of Edmond, OK, Mary Coxson of Rancho Mission Viejo, CA, Phil (Colleen) Coxson of Bellflower, CA, Debbie (Ted) Hack of El Cajon, CA, Tom (Linda) Coxson of Huntington Beach, CA, and Rob (Grace) Coxson of Edmond, OK; as well as many cousins, and countless friends.

She was preceded in death by her mom Ruth Menagh in 2014; her grandparents: Richand & Ferne Coxson and John & Carla Menagh; and two uncles Alan Coxson and Steve Menagh.

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Elizabeth "Beth" Ann Escherich - September 14, 1991 - March 01, 2024

Departed: 03/01/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Elizabeth “Beth” Ann Escherich, age 32, a lifelong resident of Kiester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 1, 2024.

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Adrian Curtis Halvorson - August 08, 1930 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Adrian C. Halvorson, age 93, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at the Lake Mills Care Center.

A memorial service for Adrian will be held at 2:30 PM on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Schott Funeral Home – Mittelstadt Chapel, Lake Mills, IA, with Mr. Kermit Singelstad officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Private family inurnment will be at Salem Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

Adrian Curtis Halvorson was born to Henry and Elvina Groe Halvorson on the 8th of August, 1930, in Silver Lake Township, Worth County, Iowa.

Adrian was baptized into the Lutheran faith at Bristol Lutheran Church and confirmed into the Lutheran faith at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills.

Adrian attended the Winnebago Country rural school (Center No. 2, the Kittleson School) through the eighth grade, he graduated from Lake Mills High School, Waldorf Junior College, Forest City, Iowa and then from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa in 1953. Adrian was drafted into the U. S. Army in August 1953 serving in the United States and on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido until June of 1955. In 1956, Adrian began working in the aerospace industry in California with much of his time spent working for the Lockheed Missiles and Space Company in the San Francisco Bay Area. Adrian received numerous citations for the quality of his work in test data analysis and reliability studies from Lockheed and from the U. S. Navy, the primary Lockheed customer for much of his work. He retired from Lockheed in 1989 and later moving to New Mexico until he returned to the midwest in 2016 to be near family until his death February 8, 2024.

Adrian was preceded in death by his parents; a nephew, Brian Vinson; and a brother-in-law, Don Vinson. He is survived by his sister Janet Vinson (Dennis Madson), Lake Mills, IA and Orloue Thomson (Lyle), Lake Mills, IA; a niece, Susan Askildson (Quint), Mora MN; three nephews: James Vinson (Kristen), St Paul, MN, Paul Thomson of Overland Park, KS and Neal Thomson of West Des Moines, IA.

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Michael Lynn Martinson - October 29, 1948 - January 27, 2024

Departed: 01/27/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Michael L. Martinson, age 75, of Emmons, MN, died unexpectedly on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at his home.

Per Mike’s wishes, a private family service will be held at Schott Funeral Home-Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 E. Main St. in Lake Mills, with Pastor Bill Peters officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the Emmons Louis Tveite Post #317.

Condolences may be sent to his family c/o Schott Funeral Home and they will be forwarded to his wife, Jane.

Michael Lynn Martinson was born on October 29, 1948 in Albert Lea, Minnesota, the son of LeRoy and Mary “Betty” (Lair) Martinson. He attended and graduated from Emmons High School. Mike served his country during the Vietnam War from October of 1966 until May of 1969. He was honorably discharged as a decorated war veteran from the U.S. Army. He was a self-employed contractor who built many homes in his career, and he was fortunate to have a wonderful wife and loving family to spend his life with.

OK, now at this point Mike would say the obituary should end because all of the important facts have been mentioned. Sadly, he isn’t here to make that call, and our family feels like adding a few more details about the man he was.

For starters, his witty, dry sense of humor caught the eye of Jane (Prokes) so many years ago, and the two were married on June 16, 1973 in Twin Lakes, MN. They moved to Colorado where they made their home for 29 years, prior to moving back to Emmons, Minnesota. Mike and Jane recently celebrated 50 years of marriage! Mike was a great man who loved fiercely, and worked hard to provide for his family. Mike’s nature was quiet, gentle and soft-spoken, but his strength and resiliency always hid under the surface. As a craftsman who was a perfectionist, the homes he built were truly beautiful. His took pride in his military service, but being a humble man, he never expected accolades. He led by example, and what he taught us was to be content with the simple joys in life: the love of family, an ice cold Old Crow & Coke. (And depending on the day, these three might be listed in a different order!)

Surviving are his wife Jane of Emmons, MN; four children: Troy Martinson of Oak Ridge, TN, Cory (Paula) Martinson of Guthrie Center, IA, Matthew (Jami) Martinson of Fairbanks, AK, and Molly (Jason) Sykes of Monument, CO; 9 grandchildren: Courtney, Stephen, Shane, Andrew, Kaiden, Izzy, Jakob, Zackery and Abby; 12 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. His siblings are Mary Sorenson of Lake Mills, IA, Dan (Becky) Martinson of Joice, IA, and Mark (Laurie) Martinson of Eagan, MN; Jane’s siblings: Cindra (Loren) Markeson of Waseca, MN, and Terry Prokes of The Villages, FL; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents LeRoy and Betty Martinson; in-laws Ivan and Frances Prokes; sister Barb Vermedahl; brother-in-law Paul Sorenson; and sister- and brother-in-law Judy (Prokes) and Norman Dunker.

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Carol Jean Griffiths - March 30, 1940 - January 20, 2024

Departed: 01/20/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Carol J. Griffiths, age 83 of Lake Mills, IA, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, IA.

Visitation for Carol will be held from 4:00 – 6:00 PM on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Schott Funeral Home – Mittelstadt Chapel in Lake Mills, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Memorial services for Carol will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Asbury United Methodist Church in Lake Mills, with Pastor Rob Lanphere officiating.

Inurnment will be at Sunnyside Cemetery, Lake Mills, IA at a later date.

Carol Jean (James) Griffiths was born on March 30, 1940 at home on the family farm outside of Buffalo Center, IA to parents Darrell and Ruby (Rummens) James. She graduated from Buffalo Center High School in 1958. On March 13, 1959, Carol was united in marriage to Don Griffiths in Lisbon, IA. To this union, four daughters were born: Deb, Lisa, Jody, and LaRae. They moved their family to Lake Mills in 1965, and Carol has been a resident ever since.

Carol worked for Winnebago Industries as a Supervisor for many years, retiring in 2002. In her free time, she enjoyed baking, gardening, yardwork, sewing outfits for her daughters, and going camping. Carol was involved at Asbury Methodist Church, and was a long-time circle member there.

She is survived by her children, Deb (Denny) Langerud of Jacksonville, NC, Lisa Griffiths of Lake Mills, IA, Jody (Chris Albrant) Griffiths of Lake Mills, IA and LaRae Griffiths of Lakeside, CA; grandchildren, Chris (Deidra) Langerud, Dee Langerud, Cal Langerud, Lacey (Gary) Register, Ben Mathews, Haley (Garrett) Olson, Wyatt (Savannah) Madson, and Parker Albrant; great-grandchildren, Skyler Langerud, Gage and Savanah Baker, Emma Langerud, Ryan and Robbie Register, and Briley, Breckynn, Beau, and Berkley Madson; a great-great-granddaughter, Ansley Baker; brothers, Ernie James of Alta, IA and Don (Linda) James of Forest City, IA; brothers and sisters in-law, Lela Carroll (Mort) Emerson, Joan James, Catherine James, Shirley James and Barb James; as well as many extended relatives and friends.

Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Don Griffiths; both parents, Darrell and Ruby James; siblings, twin brother, Dean James, Ed (Jan) James, Jim James, Ron James, Joan (Dick) Bohl, Lois (Leroy) Graft, and Bonnie James.

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Dean Royden Ulve - February 13, 1954 - January 20, 2024

Departed: 01/20/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Dean R. Ulve, age 69 of Lake Mills, died on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at the Good Samaritan Society in Forest City, Iowa.

A gathering celebrating Dean’s life will be held on Sunday, February 4, 2024 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at The Branding Iron, 135 Jackson Street in Thompson, Iowa. Everyone is welcome.

Burial will take place in Salem Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

Schott Funeral Home-Mittelstadt Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Dean Royden Ulve was born on February 13, 1954 in Mason City, Iowa to parents Vernon and Adeline (Thompson) Ulve. He attended Lake Mills High School and graduated with the Class of 1972.

Following graduation, Dean worked with his brother Darrell in the tiling business. He then began his career at Universal Circuits/Printed Circuits Inc. in Lake Mills. Dean retired after 20+ years of service, making many friends with co-workers over the years.

In his free time, Dean enjoyed hunting, playing cribbage, and was a proud supporter of the MN Twins and Vikings-even through the bad times.

Dean was blessed to find a life partner in Betty Thompson; the couple never married, but shared much love and devoted time to one another.

Dean is survived by Brad Thompson; a granddaughter Jazzlynn Thompson; two brothers David & Marilyn Ulve and Dale & Linda Ulve; a sister-in-law Reta Ulve; brother-in-law Carl Schaefer; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; partner Betty Thompson; brother Darrell Ulve; and two sisters Kathy & Gary Briggs and Carol Schaefer.

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Beatrice Mae Rusley Young - May 19, 1934 - January 17, 2024

Departed: 01/17/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Beatrice Mae (Nelson) Rusley Young, age 89 of Jonesboro, Arkansas, formerly of Joice, Iowa and Sioux City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at Ridgecrest Health and Rehabilitation, following a long illness.

Beatrice Mae (Nelson) Rusley Young was born on May 19, 1934 in rural Lake Mills to parents Norris and Alma (Storby) Nelson, the youngest of six children. She grew up and graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1952.

On August 10, 1952, Beatrice was united in marriage with Cecil J. Rusley and they moved to Oceanside, California, where Cecil was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. Following his honorable discharge, they returned to Joice, Iowa to raise their three children: Joyce, Marta and David.

In January of 1970, Bea and Cec moved their family to Sioux City, Iowa where they built a successful Life Investors Insurance Agency and a Corner Pocket franchise which she helped operate with David until her retirement. Cecil passed away in January of 1986.

In 1995, Bea met and married Darrell Young and gained three bonus children: Crystal, Cindy and Dan. Shortly after Darrell’s passing, Bea decided to move to Jonesboro to be closer to Marta and family.

She enjoyed many activities inside and outside the home, including traveling to many countries with Cec and her sister Maxine, trips to nearby casinos where she was quite successful, dancing, singing, eating out with friends, reading, and watching her favorite shows: Family Feud and any Hallmark movie.

At the time of her death, she lived at Ridgecrest Health and Rehabilitation. Her family will be forever grateful for the love and care provided to Bea through her final years.

Bea will be missed by daughters Joyce (Ron) Dammer of Byron, MN and Marta (Wayne) Rusley-Parker of Jonesboro, AR; her bonus children, Crystal (Dennis) Benson of Sioux City, IA, Cindy (Mike) Stodden of Bennington, NE, and Dan (Chris) Young of Lenexa, KS; and seven grandchildren, Brody (Amy Jo) McClaren of Doniphan, MO, Blake (Nicki) Batty of Zumbrota, MN, Mitch (Taylor) Batty of Mound, MN, Melanie Rusley of Katy, TX, Maureen (Amy) Rusley of Pontoon Beach, IL, Ty (Betsy) Rusley of Becker, MN, and Justin (Amy) Rusley of Edina, MN. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Marian Nelson and Willa Jean Nelson; 16 bonus grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and all of her cherished nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husbands, Cecil J. Rusley and Darrell Young; son David Rusley; her parents Norris and Alma Nelson; in-laws Oscar and Christina Rusley; five siblings, Warren “Bud” Nelson, Dale Nelson, Donald Nelson, Maxine Nelson Thornton and Loren Nelson; and a niece Susanne Nelson Normandie.

Funeral service for Bea will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 201 Franke Street in Joice, Iowa with Pastor Bill Peters officiating.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Schott Funeral Homes Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 East Main Street in Lake Mills, Iowa, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Interment for Beatrice will be held at Concordia Lutheran Cemetery, rural Joice, IA, directly following the funeral service on Saturday.

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Joycelyn Hanson - April 02, 1933 - January 02, 2024

Departed: 01/02/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Joycelyn A. Hanson, age 90, of Kiester, MN passed away at her home surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday,

January 2, 2024 in Kiester, MN. Memorial services for Joycelyn will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Our Saviors Lutheran

Church, Kiester, MN, with Rev. Dr. Jeanette Bidne officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Friday, January 19, 2024 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Kiester,

MN, and will continue one hour prior to the memorial service on Saturday from 10:00 – 11:00 AM.

Inurnment will be at the Our Saviors Church Cemetery following the service.

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Calmer "Cal" Langerud - April 24, 1929 - January 02, 2024

Departed: 01/02/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Calmer Lurland Langerud of Lake Mills IA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Henderson, NV on January 2nd, 2024 at the age of 94.

A visitation for Cal will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday, January 19, 2024 at Schott Funeral Homes – Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 E. Main St. Lake Mills, IA 50450.

Interment will follow at North Prairie Church Cemetery, rural Leland, IA, with military honors performed by the Otto/Chose American Legion Post #235 in Lake Mills.

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Violet Elaine Kvale - October 07, 1932 - June 29, 2024

Departed: 06/29/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview:

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Theresa "Tessie" Marie Severson - June 09, 1938 - June 20, 2024

Departed: 06/20/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Theresa Marie “Tessie” Severson, age 86, a longtime resident of Scarville, Iowa, died on Thursday, June 20, 2024 in Jacksonville, Missouri while under hospice care.

A memorial service for Tessie will be held at 4:00 PM on Sunday, July 7, 2024 at the Fertile Church of Christ, 3493 Eagle Avenue in Fertile, Iowa with Reverend Ken Olson and Pastor Randy Baldwin officiating.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at the church on Sunday.

Inurnment will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, rural Scarville, Iowa.

Theresa “Tessie” Marie Ross was born June 9, 1938 at home in Iowa Falls, Hardin County, Iowa, to parents William Edward and Lena (Sporaa) Ross. She was baptized on March 22, 1953 at the First Methodist Church in Iowa Falls. Tessie graduated from Bricelyn High School in 1956, Bricelyn, Minnesota. On October 10, 1957, she was married to Jerry Wayne Severson at the Baptist Church in Bricelyn. They shared 52 years of marriage and were blessed with seven children: Curtis, Julie, Lyle, Monty, Faith, Alena and Sabrina. Not quite the dozen that Tessie always wanted, but a houseful just the same!

Tessie was a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved having a large family and kept track of them all, no matter how near or far they lived from her. She helped Jerry with milking cows while they lived in Scarville, and when they moved into Lake Mills in the 1970’s, she began work at Deluxe Products. Tessie worked at Deluxe/Fleetguard/Cummins retiring after 25 years of employment.

She loved reading anything and everything in print, her favorites being Louis L’Amour and Harlequin romance novels. She enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, stock car races, and going North to the Severson homestead to visit Jerry’s extended family and friends. After his passing in 2009, Tessie found a new family of friends from Scarville-watching Jeopardy!, telling stories, playing Texas Hold’em, meat Bingo, and cheering for the Vikings are all pastimes shared by many at the Scarville bar. Tessie was also a proud blood donor, receiving many gallon pins through her lifetime from the Red Cross.

She is survived by her children: Curtis (Arlene) Severson of Denver, CO, Julie (Gregory) Rice of Lake Mills, Lyle (Beth) Severson of Macon, MO, Monty Severson of Hampton, IA, Faith Larson of St. Louis, MO, Alena Bangs of Swaledale, IA, and Sabrina Lium of Lake Mills; 11 grandchildren: Sage (Alexander) Sullivan, Kyle Severson, Nicholas (Brooke) Rice, Tyler (Lexie) Rice, Jade (Jeremy) Richardson, Adam (MaryEllen) Severson, Jonathan Severson , Brandy Severson, Tesse (Spencer) Shadley, Todd (Amanda) Wickham, and Trinity (Ken) Olson; and 19 great-grandchildren: Jeah, Remy, Gracie, Gillian, Addilynn, Jerry, Adrien, Kyra, Austin, Ethan, Riley, Jordyn, Langston “Miles”, Jordin, Payton, Gemma, Evelyn, Griffin, and Nadia. She is also survived by her brother Randall Gordon of Jacksonville, MO; a sister-in-law, Barbara (Henry) Pollock of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; and two brothers-in-law, Marvin (Ruth) Severson of British Columbia, Canada and David Severson of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; as well as many extended relatives and friends.

Tessie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Jerry in 2009; granddaughter Elizabeth Annmarie Wickham; grandson Shannon “Cody” Wickham; a sister Orrena Martin; three sisters-in-law, Bonnie (as an infant), Betty Severson and Elizabeth Severson; and two brothers-in-law, Ronald Severson and Robert Pollock.

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Dennis D. Hill - November 08, 1937 - June 14, 2024

Departed: 06/14/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Dennis Duane Hill of Lake Mills, Iowa heard the Lord calling him and passed away very peacefully to be with his Savior on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the Lake Mills Care Center at 1:25 pm with his loving wife Rose Ann by his side. He had been in Hospice Care since January.

Funeral services for Dennis will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Schott Funeral Homes-Mittelstadt Chapel, 902 East Main St., Lake Mills, IA 50450, with Pastor Randy Baldwin officiating.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M., Thursday, June 20, 2024 at the funeral home.

Military Honors will be performed by the Otto Chose American Legion #235.

Interment will follow the service at the Bristol Lutheran Cemetery, rural Joice, Iowa.

Dennis Duane Hill was born November 8, 1937 to Jester S. Hill and Viola (Dakken) Hill in Lake Mills, Iowa. He descended from Norwegian Pioneers that were some of the original founders of Lake Mills and Winnebago County. His Grandparents were Henry and Mattie (Olson) Dakken, of Lake Mills and Rasmus and Annie (Swenson) Hill of Leland. He grew up in Neil’s Spur, Iowa just west of Leland. It was called Neil’s Spur because of the train track and traffic that ran through it. He was Baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith at West Prairie Lutheran Church, Leland. His ancestors were founding members of the Church.

The family always sat at what came to be known by other congregants as the “Hill Pew” at the church services as they had done through several generations. When he was young his parents ran the local General Store at Neil’s Spur, IA and he helped in the family business. When the train came through Neil’s Spur there were Hobo’s that frequently rode the train. He often helped his parents feed them as “they were good people, just down on their luck.” as his father pointed out. The Hobo’s always offered to assist with odd jobs in payment for the kindness they received and never expected a free hand out, so his father’s observation rang true. The store became the “place to be” for local residents in the Leland and Thompson area. Family, friends and neighbors often gathered there on Saturday nights as it was a fun meeting place for them from the 1930’s to early 1960’s.

He helped his father in his Poultry and Egg business as well. He enjoyed raising puppies that he sold as a child. He also helped his Dad on the Family Farm. He had many fond memories of growing up there with his brothers Gerald and Roger. He went to school in Forest City, Iowa. While in High School he played for the Forest City Indians as a Center for the Basketball Team and a Tight End for the Football team. He was an athlete and quite talented with the “hoop.” He graduated from Forest City High School in 1957.

Dennis served Honorably in the United States Army Reserves. He was designated as a Marksman in Battery 3, 3rd Battalion, 14th Artillery in Garner, Iowa and Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Dennis returned from Basic Training and was shortly after United in Marriage to the love of his life, Rose Ann Marie Trustem on November 26, 1960. To this Union three children were born, Jerry Edward in 1962, Jeffrey Dean in 1963, and Audra Dea in 1976. Dennis and Rose Ann were members of Salem Lutheran Church their entire married life.

He worked for several years for David Twito’s business as an automotive body repairman. He then began his own business and owned and operated Dennis’ Auto Repair in Lake Mills. He was a respected businessman and talented body repairman for many years. He was proud of his work and put all of his effort into repairing cars and he was sought out because of the fine work that he was well known for. His Nephew Randy Hill assisted him for a time and learned the Auto Body business from his Uncle Dennis.

He belonged to several organizations including the Lutheran Brotherhood at Salem Lutheran Church where he often served as a Church Usher. He also enjoyed playing Dart Ball with the Lutheran Brotherhood team. He enjoyed collecting restored cars from the 1940’s and 1950’s and he also owned several Ford Model T’s. He was a member of the Aristocrats Car Club. He showed his vehicles at many Car Shows and won numerous trophies and recognition for them. He had a beautiful car collection, one in particular had a glass top. He also collected Classic Chris Craft Mahogany Boats that had been restored to their full grandeur, one of them he christened the “Gypsy Rose” in honor of his wife Rose Ann. It is a two tone Chris Craft Mahogany boat still owned by the family. He owned the 1947 Chris Craft Mahogany Boat called the SAMAR V that was originally owned by Bob Speltz. Bob Speltz was an expert on Classic Chris Craft Mahogany boats and he wrote a book about them called “The Real Runabouts” by Bob Speltz and the SAMAR V was featured in that book. It is a rather famous boat, that is well known by collectors. The book is a popular and well known book about Classic Chris Craft boats that is valued by collectors to this day. His son Jeffrey owns that boat now.

He also enjoyed collecting and selling antiques, a love he inherited from his parents and had a wonderful collection of beautiful things. Because of his reputation as collecting quality antiques, he appeared in a segment of “American Picker’s” TV show with Mike Wolfe on the History Channel. He also enjoyed collecting antique cars and tractors and children’s Pedal Cars and a Pedal Airplane that had been restored that is somewhat rare. He was an avid Country and Western Fan and he and Rose Ann enjoyed going to local Country and Western Shows such as Johnny Cash, Don Williams, and he always enjoyed 1950’s Everly Brother’s who they saw in person.

He often enjoyed spending time in the McGregor, Marquette and Prairie du Chien area. He always enjoyed family gatherings at the Family Farm with his parents and brother Roger and his family.

He often spoke of fond memories of spending time with his Grandma Annie Hill and his Aunt Hilda and Uncle Henning whom he was very close to on the Hill Family Homestead that was known as the “Evergreen Farm.” That farm is listed in the “History of Winnebago County” book. He often spoke very fondly of his Grandma Annie and how she made and preserved Sauerkraut and was the official Lutefisk cook for the West Prairie Lutheran Church Lutefisk Holiday Dinners.

Dennis was a kind, gentle and caring man who loved animals, family and his friends. He rarely had anything bad to say about anything or anyone and he is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by those who loved and knew him well. His children have many stories of people stopping to tell them what a wonderful man he was and how lucky we were to have him as our Father. He will be loved and cherished throughout our lifetimes.

Dennis Duane Hill is survived by his loving wife of nearly 64 years, Rose Ann of Lake Mills, his sons, Jerry of Otsego, Minnesota, Jeffrey (Kim) of Grand Meadow, Minnesota and daughter, Audra (Christopher “Chris”) Stambaugh of St Charles, MN. He also had four Grandchildren, Elizabeth (Beth) Hill of Seattle, WA, Joshua Hill of Grand Meadow, MN, Alicyn and Erika Stambaugh of St Charles, MN. He is also survived of his Sister in Law, Dorothy Hill of Leland, IA, Nephew, Larry (Becky) Hill of Thompson, IA and Niece, Debra Buffington of Forest City, IA and a Nephew, Kevin Hill of San Diego, CA and numerous cousins and great nieces and nephew’s.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jester (1995) and Viola (2000); his brother, Jerald and Sister in Law, Mavis (Pat) Hill, their children Vicki, Renee and Randy James. His brother, Roger Henry, and his Nephew, Randy Scott Hill.

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Majella Ruth Flugum - June 05, 1932 - June 04, 2024

Departed: 06/04/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Majella R. Flugum, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 – one day shy of her 92nd birthday. She passed away at the Lake Mills Care Center surrounded by family.

Funeral services for Majella will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 7, 2024 at Winnebago Lutheran Church, rural Lake Mills, IA, with Pastor Bill Peters officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow the service at the Winnebago Church Cemetery.

If you are unable to attend the service will be livestreamed at the “One In Christ” YouTube or Facebook page.

Majella Ruth (Schnebly) was born on June 5, 1932 in Kanawha, IA to parents Ralph and Eleanor (Goodrich) Schnebly. She grew up in Thompson, IA, graduating in 1949. Growing up, she attended the United Methodist Church in Thompon, IA.

On July 9, 1950, she was united in marriage to Donald Flugum at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. The couple was blessed with three children: Linda, Alan, and Scott. Together, Don and Majella farmed and raised their family together in rural Lake Mills. Majella and Don were members at Winnebago Lutheran Church in rural Lake Mills. Majella enjoyed reading, quilting and sewing, going on car rides, traveling and taking pictures. She was also an excellent baker – cinnamon bread and cookies were her specialty!

Majella is survived by her children, Alan (Deanna) Flugum and Scott (Joan) Flugum; grandchildren, Alison (Nathan) Shannon, Michael (Jill) Flugum, Brandon (Angela Strait) Flugum, Brad Koppen, Lucas (Jen) Flugum, Marisa (fiancé Barry Nielsen) Koppen, and Amber Haufle; great-grandchildren, Slade Sifuentes, Leighton and Taelynne Flugum, McKenzie Flugum, Brielle and Jaelyn Fox, Cooper and Lance Koppen, Cruz and Kingsten Flugum, Londyn and Toryn Bell, Clayton, Annabelle and Kimberly Nielsen, Melinda, Lydia, Fiona and Isabella Haufle; a sister, Leona Guzman; as well as many extended relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by both parents; her husband, Donald in 2005; daughter, Linda (Clete) Sharp; brothers, Loren Schnebly and Dexter Schnebly; and a sister, Kathy Brewster.

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Marvin Thorson - April 03, 1956 - June 04, 2024

Departed: 06/04/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Marvin Olendo Thorson, age 68 of rural Lake Mills, IA, passed away of natural causes at his home on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

Cremation will take place, and there will be no services held at this time.

Any condolences to the family may be sent to: Julie Turvold 24387 Maple Dr. Lake Mills, IA 50450.

Marvin Thorson was born on April 3, 1956 in Mason City, IA to parents Alvin and Ina (Olson) Thorson. He grew up in Northwood, IA. After his schooling Marvin worked for many years at Western Auto in Mason City as a mechanic. He later worked at Cummins in Lake Mills, and most recently Winnebago Industries in Forest City.

Marvin’s passion was being a mechanic. He could fix anything you put in front of him. Friends would often call on Marvin as a last resort to fix something that nobody else could figure out – and he always could find a solution or a fix! He enjoyed drag racing in Cedar Falls and fixing and restoring cars and lawn mowers.

He is preceded in death by both parents, Alvin and Ina Thorson; a brother, Allen Thorson; and sisters, Joey Thorson and Darlene Thorson.

Surviving family members include his wife, Susan Thorson; ex-wife, Julie (Greg) Turvold; children, Angie Thorson, Jason Thorson, and Heather (Cory) Trainer; grandchildren, Ashton Trenhaile, Taylor Gross, Kaylee, Lyla, Gracie, and Silas Thorson, Mackenzie and Mason Sheahan, and Cory Trainer Jr.; great granddaughter, Makiah Trenhaile; brother, Leroy (Lauri) Thorson; brother in-law, Richard (Oralia) Lestrud and their children, Christian and Olivia; sister in-law, Jody Blakewell and her children, Bryan, Wesley and Troy Thorson; special friend, Tori Meyer; many great nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.

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Roxanne LaRae Rasmussen - October 14, 1962 - July 22, 2024

Departed: 07/22/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Roxanne LaRae (Sabin) Rasmussen, age 61, currently of Lake Mills, IA, passed away of natural causes at her home on July 22, 2024.The family will host a memorial visitation to celebrate Roxanne's life from 1:00 - 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 17, 2024, in the fellowship hall at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills.Roxanne is survived by her mother, Connie Sabin of Lake Mills, IA; brother, Kevin (Brenda) Sabin of Austin, MN; nieces, Amber and Haley Sabin and great-nieces, Mercedes and Makayla Sabin.She is preceded in death by her father, Oron John Sabin and her niece, Sarah Ann Sabin.

Roxanne LaRae (Sabin) Rasmussen, age 61, currently of Lake Mills, IA, passed away of natural causes at her home on July 22, 2024.

The family will host a memorial visitation to celebrate Roxanne's life from 1:00 - 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 17, 2024, in the fellowship hall at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills.

Roxanne is survived by her mother, Connie Sabin of Lake Mills, IA; brother, Kevin (Brenda) Sabin of Austin, MN; nieces, Amber and Haley Sabin and great-nieces, Mercedes and Makayla Sabin.

She is preceded in death by her father, Oron John Sabin and her niece, Sarah Ann Sabin.

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Lloyd J. Okland - November 09, 1926 - July 22, 2024

Departed: 07/22/2024 (Lake Mills)

Obituary Preview: Lloyd Okland, age 97 of Lake Mills, IA passed away peacefully on Monday, July 22, 2024 at the Lake Mills Care Center.Visitation for Lloyd will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Schott Funeral Homes - Mittelstadt Chapel in Lake Mills. There will be a time for family and friends to share memories beginning at 6:30 PM.Memorial services for Lloyd will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, IA, with Pastor Melinda McVey officiating, with a visitation continuing one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow the service at Salem Memorial Cemetery, rural Lake Mills.Full obituary coming soon...

Lloyd Okland, age 97 of Lake Mills, IA passed away peacefully on Monday, July 22, 2024 at the Lake Mills Care Center.

Visitation for Lloyd will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Schott Funeral Homes - Mittelstadt Chapel in Lake Mills. There will be a time for family and friends to share memories beginning at 6:30 PM.

Memorial services for Lloyd will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, IA, with Pastor Melinda McVey officiating, with a visitation continuing one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow the service at Salem Memorial Cemetery, rural Lake Mills.

Full obituary coming soon...

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Personalized Funeral Services

No two individuals are alike, and neither should their funerals be. At Mittelstadt Funeral Home, they believe in creating personalized funeral services that reflect the unique personality, interests, and spirit of the deceased. From traditional funeral services to more modern celebrations of life, their team will work with you to create a meaningful and memorable tribute to your loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while the cozy visitation rooms offer a more intimate setting for smaller gatherings. Additionally, Mittelstadt Funeral Home offers a range of amenities, including audio-visual equipment, catering services, and on-site parking.

Pre-Planning Options

While it may seem difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can bring peace of mind and relieve some of the burden on your loved ones when the time comes. Mittelstadt Funeral Home offers pre-planning options that allow you to make your wishes known and take care of the financial arrangements ahead of time. Their experienced staff will guide you through the process and help you create a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Cremation Services

Mittelstadt Funeral Home understands that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families. They offer a range of cremation services, from direct cremation to more elaborate memorial services. Their team will work with you to ensure that your loved one is treated with dignity and respect throughout the cremation process.

Community Involvement

Mittelstadt Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Lake Mills community and is committed to giving back through various charitable initiatives and sponsorships. They believe in supporting local organizations and events that make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Contacting Mittelstadt Funeral Home

If you're looking for a funeral home that truly cares about you and your family, look no further than Mittelstadt Funeral Home. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate assistance, their team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Alternatively, you can stop by their location at 902 East Main St., Lake Mills, IA, 50450, to speak with one of their experienced funeral directors in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who need to know about the funeral or memorial service. They can also be a therapeutic outlet for grieving families and friends to share their loved one's story.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary. The writer should have personal knowledge of the deceased and their life story.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. You may also include information about the funeral or memorial service, charitable donations, and any other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Online obituaries often have more flexibility in terms of length.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help bring the person's story to life and provide a visual tribute.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may accept submissions online or via email, while others may require a phone call or in-person visit.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary before they pass away. This can be a unique opportunity to reflect on your life and legacy, but it's essential to discuss your wishes with your loved ones beforehand.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, location, and length of the obituary. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $1,000 or more for print publications, while online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult or impossible to make changes to an obituary once it's been published in print. However, online obituaries can often be edited or updated after publication.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

This depends on the specific online platform or website. Some may keep obituaries available indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period (e.g., 30 days).

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, incorporating meaningful quotes or song lyrics can add depth and personality to an obituary. Just ensure you have permission to use copyrighted material if necessary.

What is a living obituary?

A living obituary is a biographical sketch written about someone who is still alive. It can be used as a way to celebrate milestones or achievements during their lifetime.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be an effective way to capture the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to consider the audience and avoid offending anyone.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or websites that specialize in historical records. Local libraries or genealogical societies may also have access to archived newspapers or other resources.

Can I republish an old obituary?

If you're interested in republishing an old obituary, check with the original publication for permission first. You may need to obtain copyright clearance or provide proper attribution.

What is an obituary poem?

An obituary poem is a verse written specifically for an obituary. It can be used to express emotions, celebrate the person's life, or provide comfort to those grieving.

Can I include links in an online obituary?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to include links to social media profiles, memorial websites, charity donation pages, or other relevant resources.

How do I notify social media platforms about someone's passing?

Contact each platform directly to report the account holder's passing. They will guide you through their process for memorializing or closing the account.

Can I create a video obituary?

Yes! Video obituaries are becoming increasingly popular as a way to share stories and memories through multimedia presentations. You can create your own video using photos, music, and narration.

What is an online memorial page?

An online memorial page is a dedicated webpage where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences for the deceased. These pages often remain active for years after the initial posting.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes! Including information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers is a common practice. This allows mourners to make contributions in memory of the deceased.

How do I handle errors in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication immediately if you discover errors in a published obituary. They will work with you to correct the mistakes as soon as possible.

Can I write multiple versions of an obituary?

Yes! You might want to write different versions for different audiences (e.g., one for local friends and another for distant relatives). Alternatively, you could create separate versions for print and online publications.

What is the purpose of an obiturary archive?

An obiturary archive serves as a repository for historical obituaries, allowing researchers and family historians to access valuable genealogical information and learn about people from past generations.