Oakcrest Funeral Services - Titonka Obituaries

Oakcrest Funeral Services - Titonka: A Compassionate and Professional Funeral Home

Oakcrest Funeral Services in Titonka, Iowa, is a trusted and respected funeral home that has been serving the local community for many years. Located at 58 1st Ave. NW, Titonka, IA, 50480, this funeral home is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional services to families during their time of need.

History and Mission

Oakcrest Funeral Services was established with the goal of providing personalized and dignified funeral services to the people of Titonka and surrounding areas. The funeral home's mission is to help families celebrate the lives of their loved ones with respect, compassion, and professionalism. With a deep understanding of the importance of honoring the deceased, Oakcrest Funeral Services strives to create meaningful and memorable experiences for those who are grieving.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Edward W. Rike - July 08, 1948 - July 31, 2023

Departed: 07/31/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A funeral service for Ed will be held at 2 PM on Friday, August 11, 2023, at the Water’s Edge Nature Center. Burial will be held in Portland Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12:30 PM until the time of service on Friday. All are invited to a luncheon after the burial. Cold meat sandwiches and drinks will be provided. Any that feel inclined can furnish a dessert.  The service will be livestreamed on Oakcrest Funeral Services’ Facebook page.

Edward William Rike died Monday morning, July 31, 2023, quietly at home after many years of living with Parkinson’s disease. He was born July 8, 1948 in Forest City, Iowa to Emma (Falk) and William Rike. At home, two older sisters, Marilyn Rike and Clara Eisenmann enjoyed their little brother, on a small rural farm near Woden, Iowa. Ed attended school in Woden and Crystal Lake, graduating from high school in 1966. After high school he attended Iowa State University.

Shortly after earning his college degree, he was drafted into the Army and served in the Vietnam War as a Clerk Typist from January 1971 to April 1972. He returned home to help his dad on the farm. In the fall of 1975, he met Betty Turner, and they were married on July 9, 1977. Of their 46 years of marriage, they lived most of it on the same small farm that Ed grew up on. Two daughters were born to their union and raised on the farm: Joann and Amy. Excluding two and a half years in Garden City, Kansas, Ed and Betty worked on the farm until the early 1990’s. When farming was difficult to make a living with, he began working at Winnebago as an inspector. The work was made more enjoyable by a good friend, whom he worked with for several years. Ed retired from Winnebago in 2006.

On the farm, Ed enjoyed the quiet work of raising poultry and pigs. He especially loved his unusual breeds of chickens. Flowers and plants brought him much joy. In his special garden he grew a plethora of unique and interesting plants. Often, he would bring many plants back to life that others had given him. During the everyday days of life Ed enjoyed sharing little jokes and puns around the supper table. When Betty made the simple meal of her wonderful fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy, he was happy. He would help his daughters with their homework and later help Amy with her quilts.

After the farm became too difficult to take care of with Parkinson’s, Ed and Betty moved to Coeur d’Alene to be closer to family. Ed’s last year was spent in a small house in Post Falls, Idaho, with many of his plants, while his wife helped care for him. His quiet, content spirit will be missed. Ed chose to serve God when he was 26 years old and was true to that choice to the end of his life.

He is missed by his wife of 46 years, Betty (Turner) Rike; daughter Joann (Brandon) Krisher of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; daughter Amy (Noland) Norris of Stratton, Colorado; grandchildren: Alawna Krisher, Keesha Krisher, Keanna Krisher, Traiten Krisher, Iron Norris and Azalea Norris, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, William and Emma Rike; sisters, Clara Eisenmann, Marilyn Rike, and Elvira Rike.

The family appreciates the love, care and support from our old friends in Iowa and new friends in Idaho.

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Roger W. Giddings - July 08, 1947 - June 26, 2023

Departed: 06/26/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: Roger W. Giddings, 75, died Monday, June 26, 2023, at Kossuth Regional Health Center. Visitation at Oakcrest Funeral Home in Titonka will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 1, 2023. A memorial service for the family will follow the visitation with burial at Bingham Township Cemetery (Woden).

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Neoma C. Boyken - April 03, 1934 - June 18, 2023

Departed: 06/18/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A funeral service for Neoma will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Titonka. Burial will be held in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.  The Funeral will be live streamed on Oakcrest Funeral Services Facebook page.

Neoma Cecile Johnson was born April 3, 1934 in Belmond, the daughter of Harold and Peggy (Ladd) Johnson. She grew up in Belmond and graduated from Belmond High School in 1952. Following high school, she worked at a clothing store in Belmond, helped local farmers, and babysat.

On December 13, 1959, she was united in marriage to Roger Boyken at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Titonka. Following her marriage, Neoma embraced life on the farm, working alongside Roger. Neoma also babysat and enjoyed spending time with children.

One of Neoma's greatest joys in life was indulging in various hobbies. She found joy in spending time outdoors and engaging in activities such as playing horseshoes, mowing the lawn, tending to her beautiful garden, and preserving her harvest through canning. She also enjoyed unraveling the stories and lineage of her ancestors. Neoma possessed love for the celebration of Christmas and spending time with her family. She was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church teaching bible study, Sunday school, and serving on the ladies church circle.

Neoma died Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Hancock County Health System in Britt. She was 89.

She is survived by her son, Steve Boyken of Lakota; sister-in-law, Sue Johnson; brother-in-law, Duane (Shirley) Boyken; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents; husband; daughters, Darla Boyken, Debra (Bruce) Kamp; brothers, Duane J. Johnson and Dustin J. Johnson; and brother-in-law, Virgil Heifner.

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Alice L. Bartelt - October 06, 1933 - May 10, 2023

Departed: 05/10/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A funeral service for Alice L. Bartelt, 89, of Titonka, will be Saturday, May 27, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Good Hope Lutheran Church in Titonka. Burial will follow at Good Hope Lutheran Cemetery in Titonka.  Visitation will be held Friday, May 26, 2023, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Oakcrest Funeral Services in Titonka.

Alice Louise Bartelt, daughter of John and Agnes (Trindle) Harvey, was born on October 6, 1933, in Van Meter, Iowa. She attended DeSoto Consolidated School and lived around the DeSoto and Adel areas. While growing up, she helped in the family greenhouse in Adel and after high school, she lived in Des Moines and worked as a secretary. Alice met Keith Bartelt on a blind date at the stock car races in Albia, IA.  On March 19, 1960, Alice married Keith at the First United Methodist Church, in Des Moines. They lived for a short time in Fort Sill, Oklahoma and then moved to a farm southwest of Titonka. They finally settled on the farm north of Titonka. Alice moved to the Titonka Care Center in December, 2011.

Alice was involved with the ladies’ group at Good Hope Lutheran Church of Titonka. Alice spent a lot of time helping on the farm with milking cows, feeding calves, driving tractor while baling hay, combining oats and picking corn. She and Keith both valued hard work and instilled that into their family. Alice also followed her family tradition and had a love for flowers and gardening. She was a Master Gardener through Iowa State Extension. Alice had a greenhouse at the farm (Bartelt Garden Center) and planted many flowers throughout town and at the Care Center. She even helped pick out and plant flowers at the Care Center while living there. Alice also loved to sew and create things. She attended many craft shows in surrounding states, selling her quilted sewing items (ALB Creations). She created and sewed the banners that hang in the sanctuary for the Church’s 90th anniversary and the Church Centennial. Alice served on the County Extension Council and was a 4-H leader for the Valley Farmerettes. She was the county bookkeeper for Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA).

Alice died Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at the Titonka Care Center in Titonka. She was 89. Alice is survived by her four children: Brian (Gloria) of Titonka, Iowa, Gary (Karen) of Lakeside, California, Lynette of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, and Duane (Jennifer) of Elkhorn, Nebraska. She has 5 grandchildren: Matthew, David, Paige, Carson, and Ava. Also surviving are her sister, Gladys Harvey, sister-in-law, Mary Kimber, and brothers-in-law, Wayne (ElJean) Bartelt, Lloyd (Verla) Bartelt, Dale (Julie) Bartelt, and Glenn Bartelt, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Keith (1993), infant daughter, parents, granddaughter, Madison, siblings, Joyce (Howard) Boll, Bob (Dolores) Harvey, June (Francis) Adams, Colleen (Ken) Strauss, and Don Harvey. Also preceding her in death are her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Merlin and Darlene Bartelt, and sister-in-law, Peggy Bartelt.

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Keith A. Ricklefs - October 26, 1956 - April 25, 2023

Departed: 04/25/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: Keith A. Ricklefs, 66, died Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at his home in Webster City. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Oakcrest Funeral Services in Titonka. A private family burial will be held. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Keith Arlen Ricklefs was born October 26, 1956, the son of Harold J. and Mildred D. (Franzen) Ricklefs. He grew up in the Titonka area and graduated from Titonka High School in 1975. Following high school, Keith farmed until 1985. After farming, Keith attended North Iowa Area Community College and then attended Western Iowa Tech Community College in Sioux City for computer programing.

Keith made his home in Sioux City and held various jobs including Kum-N-Go, Bomgaars, Hy-Vee, and various jobs until retirement. In February of 2023, Keith moved to Webster City.

Although Keith was a bachelor, he treasured his nieces and nephews and loved to spoil them. Keith also enjoyed attending church, genealogy, and family history.

Keith died Tuesday, April 25, 2023, unexpectantly at his home in Webster City. He was 66.

He is survived by his siblings, Merle and wife Betty of Woden, and Mark and wife Georgia of Titonka; brother-in-law, Roger Giddings of Burt; seven nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents; and sister, Karen Giddings.

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Russel L. Sleper - December 27, 1948 - March 19, 2023

Departed: 03/19/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A funeral service for Russel Sleper, of Titonka, will be held 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 25, at the United Methodist Church in Titonka. Burial will follow at Buffalo Township Cemetery in Titonka.  Military rites will be conducted by the Whittemore American Legion Seely-Walsh Post #425 and Howard D. Omdahl VFW Post #2541.  Visitation will be held at the church 9:30 to 11:00 AM prior to the service.  The family requests that everyone wear blue jeans to the funeral in honor of Russel.  Memorial contributions can be made to Retrieving Freedom, 1152 230th St., Waverly, Iowa 50677 or www.retrievingfreedom.org for service dog training for disabled and PTSD veterans.

Russel Lyle, son of Evert and Gertrude (Welhousen) Sleper, was born December 27, 1948, in Algona, Iowa. He was raised on the family farm near Titonka, Iowa. He was a record-holding athlete at Titonka High School and graduated with the Class of 1967. Russel attended college for a short time before he was enlisted into the United States Army in 1968. He attended basic training in Fort Bliss, Texas, and then was stationed in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He served for one year in Vietnam before ending his military career in Fort Stuart, Georgia when he was honorably discharged in 1970. While in Vietnam, 20-year-old Russel was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroism in action. After serving his country, Russel returned to Titonka to farm with his father. He was married to Sandy Maschoff July 28, 1984, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Sandy brought two children, Mike and Lisa, into Russel’s life. Russel and Sandy enjoyed horseback riding, dancing, and golfing together. They were also Iowa Hawkeye fans and football season ticket holders. Sandy died August 5, 2004.

Russel loved all animals, particularly horses and his pet dog, Fluffy. He enjoyed horseback riding and driving a team of horses. He belonged to a group of friends who went on trail rides together. He also enjoyed old time music, watching sporting events, and dancing. Russel enjoyed hunting wild hogs in Texas, and on one special trip he hunted from a helicopter. He loved participating in sports, such as slow pitch softball, pool, and golf.

Russel gained a second family when he married Patricia Trainer on January 14, 2013, in a chapel in New Mexico where stagecoaches would bring couples to get married in the past. Patricia brought three children and their families to this union: Tony, Timmy, and Tracy. The couple continued the tradition of attending Hawkeye football games. Together, they loved to travel across the United States and Canada. They particularly enjoyed their trip to Alaska. Russel faithfully attended all of the grandkids’ activities.

Russel was a proud veteran. He was a humble man who had many achievements, but never spoke of them. What he would talk about were the achievements of his grandkids. Russel was loyal, honest, and faithful. He was a strong, yet quiet, man. Russel and Patricia attended Oak Hill Church together in Humboldt. Russel believed that God was in control of his life. Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven, and when we put our faith and trust in Him alone for our salvation, we can know that we will spend eternity with God. Russel died at home in Humboldt, Iowa, March 19, 2023.

Survivors include Russel’s wife Pat, of Humboldt, IA; five step-children: Mike (DeAnn) Maschoff, Lisa (Brian) Escherich, Tony (Cheryl) Trainer, Timmy (Samantha) Trainer, and Tracy (Jason) Thurm;  19 grandchildren: Alex (Jessica) Maschoff, Jacob (Hannah) Maschoff, Tyler (Jenna) Maschoff, Andrew Maschoff, Ellie Maschoff, Megan (Ryan Hood) Escherich, Sam Escherich, Anna Escherich, Samuel Trainer, Gabriel Trainer, Joseph Trainer, Benjamin Trainer, Shiloh Trainer, Vincent Trainer, Victor Trainer, Isaac (Chelsea) Thurm, Jacob Thurm, Joshua Thurm, and Joel Thurm; six great-grandchildren: Adler Maschoff, Atwood Maschoff, Mills Maschoff, Eddie Maschoff, Easton Maschoff, and Rowan Hood; sister Gayle (Larry) Pearson of Wesley, IA; sister-in-law Jeriene Sleper of Ruthven, IA; and nephews and nieces: Paula (Jonathan) Chambers, Randy Pearson, Pam (Scott) Smidt, Terry Pearson, Jeri Ann Taylor (Kevin Propes) and families.  Russel’s parents, wife Sandy, brother Gary Sleper, grandson Valentin Trainer, and niece Sandra Kay Sleper preceded him in death.

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Matthew "Matt" E. Schmidt - December 09, 1980 - January 17, 2023

Departed: 01/17/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: Matthew E. Schmidt, 42, formerly of Woden, died Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City.

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Alvin L. Hopkes - April 18, 1928 - January 01, 2023

Departed: 01/01/2023 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview:

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Alfred Baade - January 07, 1932 - December 26, 2022

Departed: 12/26/2022 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A funeral service for Alfred Baade will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, December 30, 2022 at Ramsey Reformed Church, Titonka. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Memorials to be sent to P.O. Box 129 Williams, Iowa 50271.

Alfred Baade, son of Dick and Marie (Plaisier) Baade, was born January 7, 1932 at Titonka, IA. He was baptized at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Titonka and confirmed at the Good Hope Lutheran Church, Titonka.

Alfred attended grade and high school at the Titonka Consolidated School, graduating in 1950. From 1953 to 1955 Alfred served in the U.S. Army, serving one year in Korea. He then served in the Army Reserve until 1961.

On April 29, 1955 Alfred was united in marriage to Phyllis Swyter at the Ramsey Reformed Church, where he also became a member following their marriage. He served as a Catechism teacher, Sunday School Officer, and was on the Consistory.

Alfred worked as a mechanic, with his brother Walt at the Baade Garage and then at Fisher’s Chevrolet in Titonka before going to work at John Deere where he worked for 20 years, retiring in 1995. Seven years after retiring he worked on his own repairing combines in the surrounding area. He had a keen knack for fixing anything that needed repairing or building something for the home. He was always curious to see how anything worked.

Alfred enjoyed fishing, listening to "old time" and "country" music and spending time with his family and friends through years of retirement.

Alfred died Monday, December 26, 2022 at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt. He was 90.

He is survived by daughters, Cindi (Wes) Sweedler of Williams, Maria (John) Hillgartner of Fort Madison; grandchildren Elizabeth Sweedler of Williams, Kyle Sweedler of Williams, Lindsey Hillgartner of Lincoln Nebraska, Vance Hillgartner of Fort Madison; sisters, Mary Tryon of Britt, JoAnn Asa of Okoboji and brother-in-law Max Bierstedt of Denver, CO.

Alfred was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Phyllis; parents, Dick and Marie Baade; sisters Irene Baker, Louise Goetsch, Alvina Bierstedt, Deloris Baade; brothers Walt Baade and Raymond Baade; brothers-in-law Harold Buns, Philip Asa, Gene Goetsch, Don Baker and Stanley Tyron; and sisters-in-law, Marylee Baade and Thresa Baade.

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Michael Byers Ullmark - September 05, 1950 - October 26, 2022

Departed: 10/26/2022 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: Michael B. Ullmark, 72, passed away at his home in rural Titonka, Wednesday, October 26, 2022.

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Marvin W. Stroebel - October 15, 1939 - September 21, 2022

Departed: 09/21/2022 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: Marvin Stroebel, 82, of Titonka died Wednesday at the Titonka Care Center.  A memorial service was held on Monday at 11:00 AM at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Titonka with Pastor Judy Junkermeier officiating.  Inurnment followed at Buffalo Township Cemetery near Titonka.

Marvin Wilbur Stroebel was born October 15, 1939, in Lakota, son of William and Martha (Adams) Stroebel. He attended country school graduating from Titonka Consolidated High School. Marvin was united in marriage to Velma Huber on June 4, 1961, at the Huber family farm. They moved to Titonka to start their family.

Marvin worked as a farmhand following high school. In 1969, he owned and operated Marv’s K & H until retiring in 1998. He loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed taking motorcycle trips with Velma, gardening, horses, shooting guns, watching country westerns, and being with his dog Stella.

Marvin Stroebel died Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at the Titonka Care Center at the age of 82.

He is survived by his two children, Kenneth and wife Kim of Farwell, Michigan and Dennis and his wife Darla of Titonka; three grandchildren, Chris Stroebel, Tiffany Stroebel, and Lucas Stroebel; a great-grandchild, Hadley Stroebel; a half-sister, Doris Ricks; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Velma on February 27, 2021; his parents; his step-father, George Ricks; and an infant half-brother, Gordon Ricks.

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Verna L. Schutjer - May 13, 1942 - July 09, 2022

Departed: 07/09/2022 (Titonka)

Obituary Preview: A memorial service for Verna Schutjer of Titonka will be held Friday at 11:00 AM at the Titonka United Methodist Church. Her family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Verna Lee Schutjer was born May 13, 1942, in Buffalo Center, daughter of Fred and Jennie (Smidt) Gray. She grew up near Titonka graduating from Titonka High School in 1960. Verna was united in marriage on August 18, 1961, to Terry Schutjer at Ramsey Reformed Church in Titonka.

Verna was side by side farming with her husband until their retirement in 1998. She loved being surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Verna was an active member of the Titonka United Methodist Church. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, and canning. She also enjoyed sports, being an avid Iowa Hawkeye and Green Bay Packer fan.

Verna Schutjer died Saturday, July 9th, 2022, at the Titonka Care Center at the age of 80. She had been a resident there since March of 2020.

She is survived by her four children, Jeff and his wife Brenda (Meyer) Schutjer of Titonka, Becky and her husband Aaron Kinser of Watkins, Greg and his wife Amy (Neuroth) Schutjer of Buffalo Center, and Jeri and her husband Adam Grabin of Oxford; grandchildren, Derek (Katie Kitzman) Schutjer, Stacey (Zach) Myers, Rachel and Robert Kinser, Gwendolyn (fiance Luke Meyerink) Schutjer, Alandra (fiance Preston Downs) Schutjer, and Wes and Hannah Grabin; great-grandchildren, Oaklyn Meyerink, Greta Myers, and Kolynns Schutjer. She is also survived by her sister, Garlene Schmidt of Bancroft; sister-in- law, Sharon Hofmann of Titonka; brother-in-law, Ernie James of Alta; and many nieces and nephews.

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Alice F. Bruns - March 08, 1940 - June 28, 2022

Departed: 06/28/2022 (Titonka)

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Services Offered

Oakcrest Funeral Services offers a wide range of services to cater to the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and pre-planning, the funeral home provides personalized support and guidance throughout the entire process. Their experienced staff is dedicated to ensuring that every detail is taken care of, allowing families to focus on saying goodbye to their loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for families to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while the visitation rooms offer a more intimate setting for smaller gatherings. Additionally, Oakcrest Funeral Services provides amenities such as catering services, audio-visual equipment, and ample parking to ensure that every aspect of the funeral service is taken care of.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

Oakcrest Funeral Services understands the importance of planning ahead and offers pre-planning and advanced planning services to help families prepare for the future. By making arrangements in advance, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, reduce the burden on their loved ones, and even lock in costs at today's prices. The funeral home's experienced staff is available to guide families through the pre-planning process, answering any questions they may have and providing reassurance during a difficult time.

Cremation Services

Oakcrest Funeral Services offers cremation services as an alternative to traditional burial. Their cremation packages are designed to meet the unique needs of each family, whether they prefer a direct cremation or a memorial service with cremation. The funeral home's staff is knowledgeable about the cremation process and can answer any questions families may have about this option.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and Oakcrest Funeral Services recognizes the importance of providing ongoing support to families during their time of grief. The funeral home offers a range of resources, including grief counseling, support groups, and online resources, to help families navigate the healing process. Their staff is also available to provide guidance and support long after the funeral service has taken place.

Community Involvement

Oakcrest Funeral Services is deeply committed to the Titonka community and actively participates in local events and charities. The funeral home believes in giving back to the community that has supported them over the years and is proud to be involved in initiatives that make a positive impact on the lives of local residents.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a compassionate and professional funeral home in Titonka, Iowa, consider Oakcrest Funeral Services. You can contact them at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL). Their experienced staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance during your time of need.

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 may also include information about their family, achievements, and funeral arrangements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community. They provide an opportunity to celebrate the person's life, acknowledge their accomplishments, and offer condolences to those who are grieving.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend of the deceased writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to fill out.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, city of residence, and names of surviving family members. It may also include details about their occupation, hobbies, achievements, and funeral arrangements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

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 be a nice way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the person.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to ask about their submission process and deadlines. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for the publication.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, such as Legacy.com, Obituary.com, or FuneralHomes.com. These websites often provide templates and guidelines to help you create and share the obituary.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or online platform. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals or free listings. Online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying levels of features.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The publication timeline varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some may publish immediately, while others may have a delay of several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

Contact the publication or online platform directly to request changes. They may have specific procedures for making corrections or updates.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can opt for a private listing on some online platforms or choose not to publish it at all.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a cause they cared about.

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

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

What is a memorial website?

A memorial website is an online tribute where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences. Some funeral homes and online platforms offer this service as part of their packages.

Can I create my own memorial website?

Yes, you can create a memorial website using various online tools and platforms. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate the person's life and provide a central location for tributes and condolences.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration varies depending on the online platform. Some may keep the obituary available indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period.

Can I reprint an obituary from another source?

Contact the original publication or author for permission to reprint the obituary. Be sure to give proper credit and attribution.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

Contact a funeral home, crematorium, or professional writer for assistance. They can provide guidance and support in crafting a meaningful tribute.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes! An obituary is a celebration of life, so feel free to include lighthearted moments or personal stories that capture the person's spirit.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

Double-check facts such as dates, names, and spellings before submitting the obituary. It's also a good idea to have multiple people review it for errors or omissions.

What if I'm unsure about what to include in an obituary?

Contact a funeral home, crematorium, or professional writer for guidance. They can help you determine what information is essential and what can be omitted.

Can I write an advance obituary for myself?

Yes! Writing your own advance obituary can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told accurately. You can store it with your important documents or share it with loved ones.

How do I preserve an obituary for future generations?

Print out copies of the obituary and store them in a safe place. You can also save digital copies on external hard drives or cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox.