Grandma Zema by Grace Smelcer

Written by Grace Smelcer - 18 July 1993

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Matthew, John, and Joe, I would like to share with you some interesting experiences I gleaned from talking with your great grandmother, whom you know well and who is dear to you.

Grandma Zema was born Marjia Grenko in a part of Yugoslavia known as Fuzine in the year 1892. Her father had come to live in the USA. After three years in this country, he returned to Fuzine, hoping that his family would return with him to a coal-mining town in Iowa. Her mother dreaded leaving her parents behind in Yugoslavia and held out against his wishes to return with him.

Young Marjia, being disappointed by her mother's refusal to return with her father, wrote her father telling him that, if he waned her mother to come to him in this new land, he would have to be strong to convince her. Soon afterwards, her mother received a letter from her husband telling her that, if they intended to have a life together, she would have to come to him. He told her emphatically that, if she did not come, he would never return to Yugoslavia.

This stand of Marjia's father, in addition to the knowledge that her oldest son Blaz would soon be inducted into the Yugoslavian Army, helped her to make the decision that she and her family should join her husband in the USA. In November 1905, after selling their farm and with the extra money sent by her father, Marjia and her family were on their way to a coal-mining town in Iowa.

Grandma Zema remembers well the sad times in leaving her grandparents and aunts and uncles. It took seventeen days for the liner to cross the Atlantic Ocean. They had fun on the ship and good food. She remembers that she fed bread to the fish.

They landed in New York harbor and proceeded by train to Cincinnati, Iowa, where there was a joyful reunion with her father. They lived with a cousin until her father could rent a house for them. A year later, they bought six acres of land and built a house.

Soon after their arrival, a school teacher came to visit Marjia's father and informed him that the children needed to be in school. Her younger sister Lucy went to school. Blaz went to work in the mines with his father. Grandma Zema (Marjia) helped out at home and didn't go to school.

Grandma Zema recalled a hard life in their first years in the USA. One incident she remembers vividly. She had picked up coal along the railroad tracks, enough to fill up a little extra room. This was their fuel for cooking and heating their house. After working so hard, they were compelled to move to Cincinnati, Iowa, and of course could not take the coal with them.

They made several moves, going where the work was available. Finally, they were able to buy some land and build a new house.

Grandma Zema proceeded to tell about her marriage to Steve Zema. She was then about 16 years old. Steve Zema had also come from Yugoslavia. He came because he didn't want to join the army. They bought their home and forty-six acres of land.

Grandma Zema and Steve had seven children, among them were your grandmother and mother, Mary Ivy.

She did not learn much English with her children until they went to school. When the children wanted to say things they didn't want their parents to hear, they spoke in English. She taught her children the Croatian language. Several families from Yugoslavia had settled near them, and they spoke the Croatian language and slipped into her native tongue. Oftentimes, she had to grope for words to express her feelings and ideas.

She went on to tell me that her husband Steve Zema died and left her a widow at the age of 39. He was only 44 years old. He died in the mines in a coal car. She never knew the cause of his death. She did not want an autopsy, and couldn't have afforded it if she had wanted it done.

Grandma Zema's sons continued to work in the mines. The children helped her with the farm work, even before Steve had died. Since he worked in the mines, she plowed the land, while one of her children led the horse. They raised pigs, chickens, geese, and cows. At one time, she recalled that she milked 14 cows by hand.

Later, when the children left home, she rented out the farm. After some time, she sold the farm and left, moving to Centerville, Iowa. When she was older, she moved to Davenport, Iowa, to live with her daughter.

She has lived courageously. She has had the last rites of the Catholic Church said for her twice and got better both times.

Now for a part of her life that will help you to understand what your great grandmother was like and what she did before she left Yugoslavia when she was about 13 years old.

She said that she went to school every day except on Thursdays. She helped carry things for her aunt in a chair factory. She remembers how kind this aunt was to her. "She paid me more than I likely deserved," Grandma Zema remembers. "My grandmother's sister owned a rich farm and had long strips of land. She let us have hay for our cows."

When I asked her about her school, Grandma Zema recalls, "I only went through the third grade. My teachers were very strict. She whacked children on the hand when they had been bad." She began to laugh as she remembered, "My teacher put on of my friends under the table for punishment. They teacher could not see him, and we were laughing. The teacher did not know why we were laughing. I got punished for talking too much. I tried very hard to please my teacher."

I asked her about games she played in her childhood. She mused, "We played Tag, Drop-the-Handkerchief, Hide-and-Seek, Hop-Scotch, and oh how we like to play in the hay loft!"

When I inquired about the foods she ate as a child in Yugoslavia, she said, "Much of the same foods that we have here--a lot of pork and polenta." Since I didn't know what this was, she described it as something like corn mush.

When I invited her to tell about holidays in her childhood, she said, "Many of our holidays were connected with the church observances of Holy Days. I carried bread on my head to the church to be blessed. We had Christmas trees, but gave no gifts. We made all our decorations for our tree. We put moss under the tree and then made little animals attached to sticks to put down in the moss so they would stand up. They were beautiful, and we all liked them." She continued, "The mirrors were covered with black cloth during Lent, especially on Good Friday."

"On August 15," she remembered, "we walked to a town seven miles away for a holiday. I think it was connected with the church. In February, we had a masquerade party, and dressed up in funny clothes. This was much like our Halloween here, but it was also connected to the church."

After discussing the changes in the Catholic church, she commented, "I like the changes. I like to know what the Father is saying. I have to go with the changes."

Finally, I asked her about her feelings bout her parents. In her own words, she spoke quietly, "My mother was very nice, very understanding, hard working. I never doubted that she loved me. She was always giving to my children when they visited. My father had a bad temper. When he said something, he meant it."

She spoke to me about her daughter Ann's going to Yugoslavia. This Ann could have been her sister. In the year I interviewed her, she spoke hopefully that Ann might have the honor of seeing Tito. She expressed the view that Tito had been good to the people in Yugoslavia. She spoke strongly, "I would not like to go back there even for a visit." Pointing her hand under her chin, she added emphatically, "I had it up to here with the place."

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this article to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa. Grandma Zema was born Mary Grenko 3 April 1892 in Fuzina, Croatia, daughter of Romo Grenko and Agnes Blozovich; died 28 March 1977 in Centerville, Appanoose County, Iowa; and was buried in Oakland Cemetery, Centerville, Iowa.

Uncovered Memories by Marge Inman

I saw this article and picture in The Denver Post and a flood of memories came to me. Some of my most pleasant memories are of lambs.

Usually several twin lambs arrive each spring. The mother may only claim one of the babies and the other must be rescued or it will die. As soon as the abandoned baby is found, it must have a human caretaker. Sometimes it is near death from cold temperatures and near starvation.

My brother Paul would carry it into our kitchen and place it with rags on the oven door. Paul would rub it dry thus increasing its circulation. As the lamb felt the warmth of the oven and improved circulation its head would rise and with open eyes look around. It would struggle to stand,l but was too weak.

We had to find food for this already named lamb, Pete. We always had some glass pop bottles and nipples for lambs. Mother would heat cow's milk, pour it into a bottle and attempt to feed Pete. It soon knew how to swallow and drink that life giving milk.

Pete was so cute, as all baby lambs are. Here is a picture of him at a few weeks of age.

He was fun to feed and play with. He never missed a meal. All pet lambs come running when they spy the milk bottle and they drink quickly and noisily!

Have you ever seen baby lambs run? They run with stiffened legs so they bounce. They look like very large hailstones bouncing in the grass.

Pete was an adorable pet.

One time we had twin pet lambs named Mutt and Jeff. They were the last pet lambs I had. By this time, I was a senior in high school. All the lambs had to be taken to market and sold when they became big enough. It was an especially sad day when Mutt and Jeff had to leave me. I remember they sold for a total of $9.00. This was enough for me to buy my class ring.

Perhaps you are wondering if we ever butchered the lambs. We didn't, as the folks preferred beef and pork. But to this day, I cannot bring myself to eat lamb or mutton. To me it seems as if I would be a cannibal if I did.

Marge Inman - 19 April 2009

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of this article with the pictures by Marjorie McElvain Inman of Littleton, Colorado. She grew up in Lincoln Township southwest of Jerome.

The Pepper's Editor's Notes by Pete Sidles

Note: During the 1948-1949 school year, Pete Sidles of Jerome, served as editor of The Pepper - Official Publication of the Seymour Public School - which was published in The Seymour Herald. In each edition appeared an "Editor's Note" by Pete Sidles. Some examples from March 1949 follow.

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The Pepper - 10 March 1949

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Now that the basketball, as well as the football season, has been completed, it seems appropriate that the student body should congratulate the Warriors and Warriorettes for the impressive records they have turned up for this year. Without the constant guidance of the coaches and the unanimous cooperation of the athletic squads such a good record would not have been possible. A student with the ability of Lujack or McCauley could not have done his team as much good by himself as an ordinary student working with his fellow players.

The student boy extends it sincere congratulations and thanks to the players, coaches, managers and to everyone else including those who watched the teams bring victory more than one to Seymour fans. We also express our best wishes and good luck to the forthcoming baseball and track teams.

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The Pepper - 24 March 1949

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This year all indications point to a more interesting and elaborate school carnival than ever before. Plans are getting under way calling for a lavish display of talent, showmanship and ingenuity on the eve of April 1.

The ever-present committees, responding to the lash of the sponsor's whip, are industriously planning bigger and better concessions, side shows and other attractions. It is rumored that after the carnival, the sophomore boys presenting the Hawaiian south sea dance are going to quit school and turn professional. The juniors, richest class in school (temporarily), are going to apply in the carnival some of the money-making techniques that have made them famous. The seniors and the freshmen are very busy searching for ways of earning a new pennies with a minimum of labor.

The king and queen contest is now in full swing and everyone is urged to support his favorite candidate. A penny or an ear of corn will buy a vote.

The profit obtained from the carnival this year will go toward the purchase of additional new uniforms and playground equipment.

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The Pepper - 31 March 1949

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The S. H. S. library, one of the things which most people take for granted, has on its shelves most leading weekly and monthly magazines, recent as well as older classic books and sources of reference materials. While most students realize the opportunities for social relaxation, it is doubtful whether many know how to use the library to its fullest advantage.

To thumb through most books is to merely defeat the author's purpose. Of course, a book created only for enjoyment can entertain each reader at his own individual speed.

A knowledge of the use of the dictionary and encyclopedias is necessary before references are to be explained quickly and accurately.

Regular contacts with the magazines in the library will increase out ability to talk and think about current happenings. These events can be compared with the recorded past, studied in regular school work.

Unrestricted use of the library should, however, be extended to those students who have enough spare time in addition to their lessons to afford the reading of books. While it can serve as valuable addition to school life, the library can also be a diversion to students who use it unwisely.

Sidles Named Iowa Master Farmer

The Seymour Herald - 10 March 1949

The Pepper

Official Publication of the Seymour Public School

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Foster Nominated Sidles Master Farmer

By Neil Harl

Glen Foster, agriculture instructor, attended a luncheon at the Hotel Fort Des Moines Wednesday, March 2. The luncheon was in honor of the seven new Iowa Master Farmers of 1948. The Master Farmers had been selected by the Wallace's Farmer and Iowa Homestead company of Des Moines.

Included in the list of Master Farmers was Peter Sidles, a well known farmer of Jerome. Foster has the honor of nominating Sidles to the high position which boasts a membership of only 117 in Iowa. The Master Farmer organization began in 1926. Included in the previously selected Master Farmers are Allen Kline, national Farm Bureau president; and Howard Hill, Iowa Farm Bureau president. The 1948 Master Farmers were presented with a handsome medal and were interviewed over WHO by Herb Plambeck, WHO farm news editor.

Sidles farms 610 acres of land and is also active in community affairs. The Sidles' have five children. Pete and Jim, twin brothers, attend Seymour school, Harry lives at Waterloo, Howard attends Iowa State college and Virginia is married.

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The Seymour Herald - 3 March 1949

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Mr. and Mrs. Peter Sidles of Jerome were in Des Moines Wednesday for the presentation of the Iowa Master Farmer award to Mr. Sidles. They were heard at noon Wednesday over radio station W.H.O. with farm director Herb Plambeck.

Sidles was one of seven Iowans named for 1949 awards. He farms about 500 acres in Appanoose county, near Jerome, and was cited for "outstanding achievement in agriculture and good citizenship." Plambeck reported that Sidles had done an "unusual job in farming geared to the capability of his land."

The Sidles farm has been in the family since before the Civil War, Sidles said. The Master Farmer awards are made by Wallace's Farmer and Iowa Homestead magazines each year.

Sidles' two sons, Jim and Pete, attend Seymour High school.

Sidles Receives Agricultural Recognition

The Seymour Herald - 22 September 1949

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By Lloyd Burlingham

Because of his leadership as a soil conservationist Peter Sidles of Jerome will be presented with the W. G. Skelly award for superior achievement in agriculture on Sept. 24. He received the unanimous vote of 10 midwestern farm leaders in charge of the awards.

The 628-acre Sidles farm is just north of Jerome and seven and a half miles west of Centerville. Appanoose is definitely not the best farming country in the rich agricultural state of Iowa. In order to do a good job of soil management and food production in this section, it takes more careful farming than is required in some parts of the state.

Sidles' land was on the poor side when he first took over, but he laid out a complete farm plan, including contouring, terracing, strip-cropping and using soil conserving rotations. He has made a notable success of fitting his program to the peculiar soil problems of the country. Pasture areas once barren and unproductive are now well covered and a source of valued grazing. Neighbors, seeing the practical results of Sidles soil care, regard him as an authority on soil conservation.

Record Speaks

Present productions include: 85 to 100 hogs, sold from 12 to 16 sows; the produce of a 40-cow beef herd; a small poultry flock, and three dairy cows. About 85 acres of corn are grown and an equal acreage of oats. Most of the rest of the farm is in pasture and in hay, a mixture of timothy, alfalfa and brome being used. New grasses are being constantly tried out, and improved strains of brome grass are used. Liming and fertilizer programs are carried out as needed and results measured.

Working with his neighbors, Sidles helped organize a soil conservation district in the county which has accomplished wonders. These people are progressive American farmers and the type who are responsible for making American agriculture the envy of the world. Their modern yet simple equation--comparing soil with money--is that "you can only take as many dollars out of a bank as those you put into it." Mr. Sidles is also a charter member of the Farm Bureau, a member of the Methodist church, an organizer of farm cooperatives, a member of the county school board and was on the FSA, Triple A and FHA boards.

Seven Sidles

There are seven Sidles in all. Mrs. Sidles, besides mothering four sons and a daughter, raises poultry, keeps a modern farm household well organized, and donates generously of her time to church work. Harry Sidles is an engineer; Paul Howard is an Iowa State College student; the daughter, Mrs. Virginia Strieff, is a nurse at Ames while her husband completes his college course, and the 17-year-old twins, Peter, Jr., and James, are active in Seymour high school and 4-H work.

During a large breakfast gathering in his home Saturday morning to which many friends and neighbors have been invited, Peter Sidles will receive his award consisting of a $100 U.S. savings bond, scroll and gold lapel pin, presented in behalf of W. O. Skelly, president of the Skelly Oil Company.

At this time, the story of his achievements will be broadcast over a NBC radio network by Lloyd Burlingham on "This Farming Business" program, following a sunrise summary of the world's latest news and that along with the American farming front.

Picture of Christ Is Given at Jerome

The Seymour Herald - 29 December 1949

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The Jerome Methodist church was presented with the picture, "Head of Christ" by Sallman, in a service during the Christmas program Christmas eve. The gift, given in memory of Mr. and Mrs. George Sidles, who were faithful members of the church, was sent by the Rev. Roy Mills family of Patterson, N.J. Mrs. Mills was the former Mary Sidles.

Several members of the family were there to see the picture presented by Rev. M. R. Gonzales and George Sidles, Jr., and accepted by the official board of the church. They were the George Sidles family, the Peter Sidles family, Mrs. J. E. Condra, the Merrill Condra family, Miss Georgia Sidles and Miss Susie Sidles.

The Christmas program was given by Mrs. Paul Felkner and the choir, the children of the Sunday School and was under the direction of Mrs. Joe Beer, Mrs. James Felkner and Mrs. Tony Blozevich.

Mary C. Starcevich, 1918-1994

Centerville Daily Iowegian - September 1994

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Mary C. Starcevich, 75, of Mystic died Friday, Sept. 16, 1994, at the Seymour Care Center.

She was born Oct. 12, 1918, in Mystic, daughter of Paul and Ella (Karjacich) Starcevich.

Survivors include several cousins in Colorado, Illinois, Centerville and the surrounding area.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Anthony (Tony) and his wife, Tina Starcevich.

She was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church and Women's Club and later was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Fr. Joe Miller, C.P.P.S., officiating. Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery. A scripture reading was held Sunday at the Lange Funeral Home.

A memorial has been established to the St. Francis or St. Mary's Catholic Church and may be left at the funeral home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Antonette "Tina" Starcevich, 1911-1988

The Centerville Daily Iowegian - 21 March 1988

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Antonette "Tina" Starcevich, 76, of Golden Age Care Center died Sunday, March 20, at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital.

She was born June 9, 1911 at Mystic to Anthony and Josephine Tometich Sickich. She married Anthony (Tony) Starcevich on June 1, 1940 at Mystic. She worked as a nurses aide at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital.

Survivors include a brother, Thomas Anthony Sickich of Poway, Calif.; and a sister-in-law, Mary Starcevich, Centerville.

She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, a sister and her parents.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Father Al Ebach. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery.

Rosary service will be held tonight at 6:30 at Johnson-Lange Funeral Home. A memorial has been established to St. Mary's Catholic Church and may be left at the funeral home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Tony Starcevich, 1910-1975

The Daily Iowegian - 24 February 1975

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Tony Starcevich, 64, Route 1, Mystic, died Friday at the State University Hospital in Iowa City.

Born March 26, 1910, in Jerome, he was the son of Paul and Ella Krajacic Starcevich. He was a retired coal miner and farmer, a member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Mystic, and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

On June 1, 1940, he was married to Antonette (Tina) Sickich of Mystic, and she survives. Also surviving is one sister, Mary Starcevich of Mystic. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services were Monday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Mystic with Father Albert Fey officiating. Rosary services were Sunday night at Johnson Funeral Home. Burial was in Oakland Cemetery.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Marie K. Starcevich Risher, 1917-1983

Centerville Daily Iowegian - 17 February 1983

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Services for Marie Kathryn Risher, 65, a longtime Mystic resident, will be held Saturday, Feb. 19 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Mystic, with Father Al Jungwirth officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery, Mystic. Rosary services will be held Friday at 7 p.m. at the Miller-Wehrle Funeral Home in Centerville. A memorial to the St. Francis Catholic Church has been established, and gifts may be left at the funeral home.

Born June 26, 1917, in Jerome, she was the daughter of Anton and Louise Starcevich. On April 5, 1942, she was married to Harold Risher in Unionville, Mo., and they had made their home in Mystic since that time.

Her husband survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Mrs. John (Kathryn) Huffman, Centerville; two grandsons, John Jr., and Jeffrey; four sisters, Mary Zemo, Jerome; Ann Buban, Cincinnati; Helen Sacco, Centerville; and Louise Thomas, Washington, Ill.; and two brothers, Paul Starcevich of Arvada, Colo.; and Frank Starcevich of Jerome.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mrs. Risherdied Wednesday, Feb. 16, 1983, at Iowa Lutheran Hospital, Des Moines, following an extended illness.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Harold H. "Ben" Risher, 1912-1996

Centerville Daily Iowegian - 17 July 1996

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Harold H. (Ben) Risher, 84, of Mystic died Tuesday, July 16, 1996, at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital.

He was born Feb. 5, 1912, in Mystic, the son of Elmer and Cora (Hunt) Risher.

He married Marie Starcevich April 5, 1942, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville. She preceded him in death Feb. 16, 1983.

Survivors include a daughter, Kathryn Huffman and her husband, John, of Centerville; a brother, Clarence of Mystic; a sister, Edna Long of Rockford, Ill.; two grandsons; and many nieces and nephews.

Also preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Melvin.

He was a World War II veteran and belonged to the American Legion. He worked in mine and on construction.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 19, at the Lange Funeral Home with the Rev. Joe Miller, C.PP.S officiating. A scripture service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday. Friends may call all day Thursday. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery in Mystic.

A memorial has been established and may be left at the funeral home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Louise Starcevich Starcevich, 1887-1960

Mrs. Louise Starcevich, longtime resident of the Jerome community, died at 9 a.m. Monday, March 7, 1960, at the St. Joseph Hospital, following a long illness. She was 73 years, two months, and one day old.

Born January 6, 1887, in Yugoslavia, she was the daughter of George and Ann Starcevih. She was married to Anton Starcevich in May, 1907.

Surviving are the husband, seven children, Paul Starcevich, Denver, Colo.; Frank Starcevich at home; Mrs. Mary Zemo, Jerome; Mrs. Anna Bubang (sic), Cincinnati; Mrs. Marie Risher, Mystic; Mrs. Louise Thomas, Moulton; Mrs. Helen Sacco, Centerville; 14 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, two sisters, Mrs. Mary Pavlich and Mrs. Tina Bu...lich of Eureka, Calif.; and a brother, George Starcevich, of Coos Bay, Ore. She was preceded in death by her parents, one son Viko, and a brother, John.

Mrs. Starcevich was a member of the St. Jerome Catholic Church.

Funeral arrangements are pending, and will be announced later from the Johnson Funeral Home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Anton Starcevich, 1881-1964

A. Starcevich Rites Friday

Anton Starcevich of Jerome, Ia., passed away Tuesday, Aug. 25, 1964, at 9 a.m. at his home at the age of 83 years and seven days. Born in Yugoslavia Aug. 18, 1881, he was the son of Anton and Anna Starcevich. He was married to Louise Starcevich in 1907, who preceded him in death March 7, 1960.

He was a member of the U.M.W of A., Croatian Fraternal Union of America, and St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Surviving are seven children, Mrs. Mary Zemo of Jerome, Mrs. Anna Buban of Cincinnati, Mrs. Marie Risher of Mystic, Mrs. Louise Thomas of Peoria, Ill., Mrs. Helen Sacco of Centerville, Paul Starcevich of Denver, Colo., and Frank Starcevich of Jerome, Ia., and a brother, Matt, of Mystic. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, four sisters, and one brother.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 28, at 9 a.m. from St. Mary's Catholic Church with Father Richard Steinemann officiating and burial in the Oakland Cemetery. Rosary services will be held Thursday at 7:30 p.m. from the Johnson Funeral Home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Frank John Starcevich, 1911-1992

Ad-Express/Iowegian - 27 January 1992

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Frank John Starvich, 80, of Jerome died Saturday, Jan. 25, 1992, at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital.

He was born in Jerome Jan. 27, 1911, to Anton and Louise Starcevich. He was a World War veteran.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Paul and Vinko; two sisters, Mary Zemo and Marie Risher.

Survivors include three sisters, Mrs. George (Anne) Buban of Cincinnati, Mrs. John (Helen) Sacco of Centerville and Louise Thomas of Washington, Ill.; also several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A scripture service will be held tonight at 7 at the Duley Funeral Home in Centerville with the Father Vince Hoying conducting the services.

Funeral mass will be held Tuesday, Jan. 28, 1992, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville with the Father Vince Hoying officiating. Interment will be in the Jerome Cemetery with military rites. Friends and family may call at the Duley Funeral Home beginning at 9 a.m. today for open visitation.

A memorial may be given to St. Mary's Catholic Church or to the Jerome Reunion.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of this obituary to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Edward Paul Starcevich, 1935-1996

Ad-Express/Iowegian -25 November 1996

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Edward Paul Starcevich, 61, of Fort Collins, Colo., died Tuesday, Oct. 29, 1996, in Fort Collins.

He was born July 27, 1935, in Jerome, the son of Paul and Honora (Workman) Starcevich.

He married Peggy Knowles of Centerville. He later married Nita Read. She survives.

Also surviving are four children, his mother, a sister, Mary Venzke, and a brother, Andrew Starcevich, all of the Denver, Colo., area; and many relatives in the Centerville area.

The body will be cremated with memorial services and burial in the Jerome Cemetery at a later date.

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Ad-Express/Iowegian - 1997

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Edward "Eddie" Paul Starcevich, 61, died Oct. 29, 1996, in Fort Collins, Colo.

He was born July 27, 1935, the son of Paul and Honora (Workman) Starcevich.

He married Peggy Knowles of Centerville. She and their four children, Stephen, Jill, Scott and Ann, all reside in Denver, Colo. He later married Nita Read. She survives and lives in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Also surviving are his mother; a sister, Mary Venzke of Denver, Colo.; a brother, Andrew Starcevich of Denver, Colo.; and several relatives in the Centerville area including aunts Helen Sacco and Ann Buban.

He was preceded in death by his father.

He graduated from Centerville High School in 1953.

A graveside service will be held at the Jerome Cemetery at 11 a.m. May 3, with the Rev. Joe Miller, C.PP.S, officiating.

The family will welcome friends at a luncheon at the Motel 60 meeting room immediately following the service.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of these obituaries to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa.

Catherine "Katie" Carson Zimmerman

Funeral services for Catherine Zimmerman, who was killed in a automobile accident last Friday, were held at the Christian Church Tuesday. Mrs. Zimmerman was riding with Mrs. Elza Sagers, who was driving up a steep hill south of Seymour near the old Bert Harris farm when the engine died. The car started to back down the hill and Mrs. Zimmerman became alarmed and started to get out of the car. As she go out the momentum of the car threw her to the ground. The car backed into the ditch and upset. The car fell on Mrs. Zimmerman, with the front fender striking her at the lower part of the lungs and abdomen. Death was instantaneous. Help was summoned to left the car off the dead woman.

A coroner's inquest was held during the afternoon and the coroner pronounced the cause of death as accidental. Mrs. Sagers is 80 years old and Mrs. Zimmerman, 74. Catherine Carson was born in Cass County, Ill., May 21, 1858. Killed in an auto accident south of Seymour, Friday morning at 10 o'clock, July 15, 1932. Aged 74 years, 1 month and 24 days.

November 25, 1877, she married David Zimmerman and began housekeeping on a farm southwest of Seymour, where she enjoyed life for 25 years. In 1901 she and her husband moved to Jerome, where 18 happy and prosperous years were spent. Thirteen years ago Mrs. Zimmerman moved to Seymour, where the deceased has since lived. In 1924 her husband was called away in death, leaving her to finish life's journey alone. Not having any children of her own she took into her heart and home a homeless New York boy about 3 years of age, who many Seymour folks know as Frank McKim [sic] now living at Casper, Wyo.

Forty-five years ago Mrs. Zimmerman united with the Christian church at Antioch, in which she retained her membership until death. She is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Howard Zimmerman and Mrs. Charles Taylor, both living in Seymour, besides a number of friends who mourn her sudden death.

Funeral services were largely attended. Burial was made in Southlawn beside her husband. Elder G. A. Jeffrey conducted the services.

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Transcribed from an unidentified obituary posted on Ancestry.com's Zimmerman Message Board by Leah McKin.

David Tharp Zimmerman, 1842-1924

The Seymour Herald - December 1924

-------------------

David Tharp Zimmerman was born in Pike, Ohio, January 22, 1842, and died at his home in Seymour, Iowa, December 2, 1924 at 82 years, 10 months and 10 days.

Although Mr. Zimmerman had been in failing health for some time none of his friends considered him seriously ill. However, death came and he quietly passed away.

When about 12 years of age he came with his family to Louisa County, Iowa. Three years later his family moved to Wayne County, Iowa. He married Katie Carson in Wayne County, Iowa, 25 November, 1877. They made their home southwest of Seymour for 25 years. In 1901 he moved to Jerome, Iowa, where 18 happy years were spent. About five years ago because of declining health they moved into the town of Seymour.

Not having any children of his own he made a home for a New York homeless boy, whom persons of Seymour know as Frank McKin. Frank came from Casper, Wyoming, to attend the funeral of this man who had befriended him. Besides his wife he is survived by one brother, J. C. Zimmerman of Corydon, Iowa. Five brothers and two sisters preceded him in death. The funeral service was from the Christian Church, December 4, and burial in the Southlawn Cemetery of Seymour.

------------------------------

Transcribed from Ancestry.com's Zimmerman Message Board and submitted by Leah McKin.

James J. Houser, 1924-2006

The Gazette [Cedar Rapids-Iowa City, IA]

26 January 2006

----------------------------------

James J. Houser, 81, of Monticello, died Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2006, in the Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center following a brief illness. Services: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Goettsch Funeral Home in Monticello, where friends may call from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday. Burial: Garden of Memories Cemetery, Waterloo. Thoughts, memories and condolences may be left at www.goettschonline.com.

He is survived by his wife, Agnes; a stepdaughter, Barbara (Larry) Himes, Monticello; a half sister, Wilma Hoelscher, Fairdealing, Mo.; seven step grandchildren and 18 step great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Gloria.

James J. Houser was born Feb. 24, 1924, in Numa, Iowa, the son of Frank and Velma Lawson Houser. He attended the Seymour Community Schools, where he graduated with the class of 1942. Jim went on to serve in the United States Army during World War II. He fought in the European Theater and was captured by the Germans. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic service. Jim attended Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls for two years after his military service. He later went to work at Jones DX in Cedar Falls and was employed there for 38 years. James Houser and Agnes Jensen were married April 22, 1967, in Preston, Minn. The couple lived in Cedar Falls until May 1993, when they moved to Monticello.

Paul Howard Sidles - Man of Science

American Men & Women of Science

Physical and Biological Sciences

15th Edition, Volume VI Q-S, Page 705

New York & London: R. R. Bowker Company, 1982

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SIDLES, PAUL HOWARD, b Centerville, Iowa, Sept 5, 21; m 44; c 2. EXPERIMENTAL SOLID STATE PHYSICS, SOLAR PHYSICS. Educ: Iowa Wesleyan Col, BA, 48; Iowa State Col, MS, 51. Prof Exp: Res assoc, Iowa State Univ, 51-59, assoc physicist, 59-62; prof, Univ Sao Paulo, 62-64; ASSOC PHYSICIST, IOWA STATE UNIV, 64-. Mem: AAAS; Am Vacuum Soc; Am Phys Soc; Int Solar Energy Soc. Res: Amorphous semiconductors; transport properties in metals and semiconductors; single crystal growth; non-stoichiometric compounds; high vacuum technology; solar energy utilization. Mailing Add: Ames-Lab DOE Iowa State Univ Ames IA 50011

Betty Jane Hawkins Attends Girls State

The Seymour Herald - 29 April 1948

--------------------------------

Betty Jane Hawkins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Hawkins of Jerome, will attend Girls State this year at Grinnell in June. She was selected last week from the junior class by the American Legion Auxiliary of the Nye-Birdwell Post.

Delegates are selected for their scholarship record and extra-curricular activities to participate in the week long study of democracy.

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The Seymour Herald - 24 June 1948

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Betty Hawkins Joins Girls State Members

Betty Hawkins, Seymour's representative at the Hawkeye Girls State at Grinnell, left for her week's activities Sunday. She accompanied Joan Keller of Lineville, who represented that American Legion Auxiliary. Mr. and Mrs. Keller, and Ann Austin of Centerville, Appanoose county's representative.

Betty will participate in both good-government and recreational work. She will return home Sunday.

----------------------------------------

The Seymour Herald - 8 July 1848

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Betty Hawkins Gives Highlights of Trip

The Seymour Herald invited Betty Hawkins, representative to Hawkeye Girls State from Seymour, to tell a little about her experiences during the week long program in Grinnell and she has prepared the following story:

"The 3rd session of Hawkeye Girls State came to an end Sunday, June 27. The purpose of the Girls State is to provide citizenship training for the 200 Iowa girls of high school junior age who had the privilege of attending and to help them understand and participate in the functioning of their government.

"Hawkeye Girls State is a mythical state patterned after the state of Iowa and deals with the executive and legislative branches. Girls State follows a two-party system. These two parties are the Federalists and the Nationalists and each girl is assigned to one of these parties as she registers. A city government and a county government, as well as the state government, were set up.

"Party, precinct and ward caucuses and county and state conventions were held just as they are in real government. City elections and primary and general elections were then held with all the citizens voting. After these elections the successful candidates took over the duties of their particular offices.

"The girls were privileged to hear many well-known speakers. Among them were Al Faber, editor of the Iowa Legionaire, who spoke on "Safety"; Priscilla Wayne chose for her topic, "Just You"; Russell Decker spoke on "The Judicial Branch of Our Government"; and Mr. Nidegger talked on "The Art of Public Speaking."

"Although Girls State is not a recreational camp, a recreation period was a part of each day's activities. During this time, ping pong, badminton and tennis tournaments were held and the gym was available to play basketball and horses were available for riding.

"One of the highlights of the week was the banquet Saturday evening. Although Governor Blue and the governor of Boys State were not able to attend, Ramon Runkel, lieutenant governor of Boys State, and Paul A. Tornquist, department commander of the American Legion, were among the speakers.

"The last general assembly, in the form of a farewell, was held Sunday morning after which the girls left for their homes in all parts of the state."

Marquis Who's Who: James Sidles

Marquis Who's Who, 2009
Reproduced in Biography Resource Center,

Farmington Hills, Michigan. Gale, 2009

--------------------------

James Sidles

Birth: 1932 in Centerville, Iowa, United States.

Occupation: Retired engineer.

Family: Son of Peter and Selma (Johnson) Sidles; married JoAnn McCord, March 5, 1955 (deceased 1979); children: Sheryl, James Paul.

Education: BS, Iowa State College, 1954; MSE, University of Akron, 1962.

Certification: Registered professional engineer.

Political/Religious Affiliations: Democrat. Member of United Church of Christ.

Avocations/Research/Interests: Achievements include patents in field including collapsible (folding) tires, technology leading to first radial farm tractor tires.

Civil/Military Service: Lieutenant junior grade US Naval Reserve, 1954-1957.

Memberships: American Association for the Advancement of Science, SAE.

Positions Held: Retired, B.F. Goodrich Co., Brecksville, Ohio, 1993; R&D Fellow, B.F. Goodrich Co., Brecksville, Ohio, 1962-93; Product Engineer, Firestone Tire and Rubber Co., Akron, 1954-62.

Effie Sidles Rinker, 1877-1957

Sioux City Journal - 13 November 1957

----------------------

Funeral services for Mrs. Effie Rinker, 80, longtime Oto resident who died Monday at a Sioux City hospital after a long illness, will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Oto Congregational church.

Rev. Willard Bell of Slayton, Minn., will officiate. Burial will be in Memorial Park cemetery in Sioux City. The body will be taken from the Hudgel funeral home to the church Thursday morning.

Mrs. Rinker was born January 19, 1877, at Jerome, Ia. She was married July 6, 1902, to Dr. George Rinker at Jerome. Mrs. Rinker was a resident of Oto 54 years.

She was a lifetime member of the Methodist church and a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Rebekah lodge and Sioux Med-Dames of Sioux City.

Survivors include the widower; two daughters, Mrs. Wayne E. Birchard of Normal, Ill., and Mrs. Olaf N. Begtrum of Rockford, Ill.; a son, Dr. J. Robert Rinker of Augusta, Ga.; four sisters, Mrs. J. E. Condra of Numa, Ill., Miss Susie Sidles of Seymour, Ia., Mrs. Roy Deibert of Sac City, Ia., and Mrs. Guy Streepy of Udell, Ia., and seven grandchildren.

Mrs. Martha Hiatt Has 102nd Birthday

The Seymour Herald - 1 May 1947

---------------------------

Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Butler, sons Gerald and Hiatt, and Mrs. Cora Ammons were in Centerville Sunday where they attended a birthday dinner in honor of Mrs. Martha Hiatt who celebrated her 102nd birthday.

There were 46 close relatives and friends in attendance at the dinner. Following the dinner, open house was held during the afternoon with more than 100 friends calling to offer congratulations. Ice cream and cake were served during open house.

Following open house, a large birthday cake was cut and relatives and close friends closed the day with a final get together.

Mrs. Hiatt is the grandmother of Gerald and Hiatt Butler.

JEROME - 21 April 1947

The Seymour Herald - 24 April 1947

-----------------------

  Mrs. A. J. McWilliams and sons Ercil and Carlis of Janesville, Ia., spent last Sunday with their daughter and sister, Mrs. Paul Felkner.

  Mrs. Ida Mincks and Billy, Mr. and Richard Mincks and Mary Catherine spent Sunday in Ottumwa at the Frank D. Jones home.

  John Hickie is at home and recovering from an operation for appendicitis. He was at St. Joseph's hospital in Centerville for several days.

  Mr. and Mrs. Elihu Park have been spending several evenings with his brother Ramsay Park of Seymour who is ill in the St. Joseph hospital in Centerville.

  Mrs. Tony Blozevich and Mrs. Earl Fry will be hostesses to the W.S.C.S. Thursday, April 24. It will be a cooperative dinner. Mrs. J. M. Workman will lead devotions and Mrs. Wm. Clark has the lesson on Methodism in China.

  Miss Julia Bunetta purchased a small building owned by Robt. Hardy and moved it on the vacant lot east of the Hawkins store. She will move the Postoffice from the Hawkins store to this building.

  Quite a number from Jerome attended the operetta in Numa on April 17.

  Miss Kathryn Hawkins and Miss Susie Sidles visited Miss Jessie Wailes and Mrs. Victoria Morrison in Plano on Sunday p.m.

  Miss Norma Strange formerly of Chatsworth, Ill., has come to her home here and entered the Seymour high school.

  Mr. and Mrs. Ben H. Wilson of Joliet, Ill., visited last Friday with their cousin, Miss Susie Sidles.

Essie Moore McKin

The Seymour Herald - 24 April 1947

----------------------

Attended Funeral of Sister in Wyoming

  Mr. and Mrs. Harry Moore returned to their home at East Moline, Ill., on Sunday, April 13, from Casper, Wyoming where they had been called by the death of Mr. Moore's only sister, Mrs. Essie McKin.

  Mrs. McKin passed away April 8, after less than a week's illness.

  Another brother, Byron Moore of Barberton, Ohio, also attended the funeral. Mrs. Lincoln Moore, mother of Mrs. McKin, was unable to go and stayed in the Ardist Kelso and Roy Lyon home during Mr. and Mrs. Moore's absence.

JEROME - 7 April 1947

The Seymour Herald - 10 April 1947

--------------------

  The Thornton Strange family have moved to the farm known as the Stoner farm they recently purchased from Chas. Shubat. They came from Chatsworth, Ill.

  The Rodney Ervin family of Ottumwa spent Sunday at the Clarence Erwin home.

  Mrs. Barney Felkner has spent the last three weeks with relatives in Davenport.

  Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. Jones and son Frankie of Ottumwa spent last Sunday at the Mrs. Ida Mincks home.

  Mrs. L. E. Veil of Selby has gone to Sigourney, Ia., to visit a daughter after spending several weeks at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A. F. Hawkins, here.

  Mr. and Mrs. Chester Jarnajin and son Tommy spent several days last week at the parental James Felkner home.

  Elihu Parks is recovering from being bedfast with flu several days.

  Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Walise of Newberg returned last Wednesday to their home after spending a few days at the Wm. and W. R. Hefner homes. Mrs. Walise was the former Marjorie Humphrey, a niece of Wm. Hefner.

  Burdette Workman of Davenport is spending the Easter vacation at the parental J. W. Workman home.

  Mrs. B. A. Morrison of Council Bluffs is visiting at the Richard Mincks home and with other friends.

  Miss Phyllis Hawkins of Des Moines is a week end guest at her home, the W. E. Hawkins family.

  The young married people's choir of 14 voices with Mrs. Paul Felkner as reader, gave a lovely Easter program at the Methodist Church Sunday morning.

  The following officers were chosen for the ensuing year at the annual meeting of the Jerome Cemetery Association held at the school house last Monday evening: President -- W. E. Hawkins, Vice Pres. -- Susie R. Sidles, Secy. Treas. -- Miss Kathryn Hawkins. The following trustees were appointed: K. E. Owen, J. W. Workman and Murle Loofburrow.

  Mrs. Roy Phillips and Mrs. Harry Hoover of Centerville and Mrs. Hoover's daughter, Martha of Portland, Oregon, were callers last week at the Cadd and Kathryn Hawkins home.

  Mrs. Effie Hour of Cedar Rapids furnished a lovely Easter lily for the Methodist Church on Sunday in memory of her parents, the J. G. Kinney family. It was then sent to Miss Cadd Hawkins, who is ill.

John F. Batterson, 1862-1947

The Seymour Herald - 10 April 1947

----------------------

  Funeral services for John F. Batterson were held at the Ruby Funeral Parlor on Friday, April 4, at 1:30 p.m. conducted by J. D. Noland, Christian minister.

  Music was furnished by Mrs. Verda Morrow and Miss Isal Miller with Mrs. Thelma Cain at the piano. Selections were: "Saved By Grace" and "The City Four Square."

  Pallbearers were John Squire, Carl Garretson, Clark Anderson, Harry Ratcliff, Frank Chambers and W. O. Moore.

  The remains were tenderly laid to rest in Philadelphia cemetery.

------------------------

  John F. Batterson, son of John and Elizabeth Batterson, was born in Washington county, Iowa, Aug. 29, 1862. He departed this life April 2, 1947, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Earl Darrah, 6 miles east of Seymour, at the age of 84 years, 7 months and 4 days. He came with his parents to Appanoose county in 1868, where he grew to manhood.

  He was united in marriage with Lena Marvah Houghland October 4, 1888. She preceded her husband in death July 26, 1940. Two children blessed their marriage that are living, William Coe Batterson of Seymour, and Mrs. Regina May Darrah, 6 miles east of Seymour.

  Mr. Batterson's life vocation was farming and stock raising, until he retired and moved to Seymour in 1920 where he remained till the death of his wife. On the account of poor health he went to the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Darrah, where he was cared for until the close of life.

  Mr. Batterson was the last one of his immediate family of seven children, his passing was the last of his father's family. He was true to every obligation of life, a devoted Christian. He confessed his faith in Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour, obeyed the Gospel in 1889 and for 58 years he was a devoted Christian. Always looking forward to the great promise given in Rev. 2:10: Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life.

  He is mourned in death by his son and family, daughter and family, including 5 grand children, 9 great grandchildren, nephews and nieces, other relatives and a host of friends that loved and admired him for his manly Christian life and devotion to all mankind. 

-----------------------------

Card of Thanks

  We wish to thank all of our neighbors and friends for the many kindnesses shown us during the illness and death of our loved one. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

  -- Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Batterson and family

  -- Mr. and Mrs. Earl Darrah and family

Hog Pen Corner - Route 2 & Jerome Road

----------------------------

  The editor sincerely appreciates this wonderful photograph contributed to The Jerome Journal by Marion Zemo of Centerville, Iowa, formerly of Jerome.  The business on the corner was operated by L. Hobart, then Paul Starcevich, then Frank Zemo in the 1950s. 

Catfish Season Opens Tuesday, April 15

The Seymour Herald - 10 April 1947

------------------------

  The channel catfish season opens April 15 and continues through November 30. Prior to 1943 the catfish season was closed during the month of June. There is no closed season on catfish during that month this year.

  There is a continuous open season on bullheads with a daily catch limit of 25 and a possession limit of 50. The daily catch limit on channel catfish is 15, possession limit 30, and minimum length 12 inches.

  The trout season opens at 5:00 a.m., May 1, and is open until 9:00 p.m., September 30. Trout may be fished from one hour before sunrise to 9:00 p.m. Daily catch limit is eight, possession limit 16, and minimum length seven inches. 

Deloris Rash - Senior of the Week

The Seymour Herald - 3 April 1947

----------------------------

The Pepper  

Official Newspaper of The Seymour Public Schools

----------------------------

Senior of the Week

  Our senior of the week is Deloris Rash, who was born March 7, 1929 in Jerome, Iowa.

  Deloris started her school days at Jerome and attended school there for eight years. She came to Seymour as a freshman. One older sister, Genevieve, who is now married, was a graduate with the class of '43.

  While at Seymour she has participated in the glee club, pep club, and for three years was a member of the basketball squad.

  Among her favorite pastimes is dancing and she likes football games. She also likes hearing Sammy Kaye's band and Andy Russell as the vocalist.

  Deloris is taking a commercial course this year, but hasn't made any definite plans for the immediate future.

  In case some of the fellows would like to know, Deloris stays at Mrs. W. B. Perkins, when she isn't helping her dad out on the farm.

JEROME - March 24, 1947

The Seymour Herald - 27 March 1947

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  Mrs. S. J. Owen has moved from her Centerville home to the small house on her son Kenneth's farm. Her son Donald of Ames is spending this week with her during spring vacation at Iowa State College.

  Harry Sidles of Ames is also spending the week at the parental Peter Sidles home.

  Mr. and Mrs. G. D. Mincks are both sick with flu.

  Mr. and Mrs. Paul Crooks of Rockford, Ill., and Mr. and Mrs. Oris Becknal of Centerville were calling on friends in this vicinity on Thursday.

  The W.S.C.S. will meet at the church on Thursday, March 27, for a cooperative dinner. Mrs. Peter Sidles and Mrs. I. E. Fry will be hostesses. The regular missionary study will be conducted in the afternoon in charge of Mrs. Paul Ervins.

  The upper grades of school were dismissed for two days last week because of the death of the teacher, Mrs. Ernestine Del Pontes' grandmother, in Centerville.

  Mrs. Forrest Workman returned from the St. Joseph Hospital on Monday. She had spent several days there for observation and treatment. Their daughter Janice spent several days with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Loyd Lowe, near Cincinnati. She returned home on Saturday.

  Mrs. Murle Loofburrow returned home last week. She had spent several weeks with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Link in Centerville after the birth of a son at the St. Joseph hospital in Centerville. She and baby are both doing well.

  A very successful food sale was held by the W.S.C.S. at the Farmers store in Centerville on March 15. They cleared around $35.00.

  An Easter program will be given on Easter Sunday following the preaching service.

  Mrs. Lyda Bollman is spending several days in Des Moines with her son Clay Hickie and family.

JEROME - 10 March 1947

The Seymour Herald - 20 March 1947

-------------------------

  Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mincks spent last Sunday with the Vern Brooks family near Newton. They had recently moved there from east of town.

  The Loyd Cochran family moved last Monday to a farm south of Newton from the Charley Shubat farm they had occupied for several years. Mr. Cochran will be employed by the month in his new location.

  Mrs. Roy Strawser is much improved from a recent illness.

  Billy Hawkins will return to school today after being absent several days with measles.

  Donald Owen of Ames spent the week end with his brother Kenneth and family and with his mother, Mrs. S. J. Owen at Centerville, who has been spending several days at the Kenneth Owen home.

  Mrs. Wm. Hefner spent last Friday at the W. R. Hefner home, the first trip out since her recent illness.

  Kenneth Owen and W. R. Hefner returned Thursday from Peoria, Ill., where they had attended an observation meeting and tour of the Farm Bureau system in Illinois. A large group attended.  Five members from each Iowa county were supposed to be there.

  The ladies of the W.S.C.S. will hold a St. Patricks day tea in the social rooms of the church Thursday p.m., March 13. The committee in charge is Mrs. Joe Beer, Mrs. Wm. Clark and Mrs. Earl Fry.

  Mrs. Cecil McElvain and daughter Marjorie spent Sunday at the Paul McElvain home.

  Mrs. Kenneth Owen and sister, Mrs. Geo. Jones of Davenport, spent several days in Des Moines attending the basket ball tournament.

  There was a large attendance at the cooperative family night supper on Friday evening. Rev. Richmond, the Baptist minister from Unionville, Ia., was the guest speaker.

  Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Hefner, Norman and Colleen, drove to Des Moines Saturday to attend the finals of the basket ball tournament.

  The young married peoples choir of the Methodist church met with Miss Susie Sidles last Tuesday evening. 14 members were present and Mrs. James Felkner, their pianist. Paul Turner of Centerville accompanied them and took some recordings.

Cleo Olive Norris Inman, 1896-1947

The Seymour Herald - 20 February 1947

----------------------------

Final Rites For Mrs. Ed Inman

  Mrs. Cleo Inman passed away at her home near Numa on Tuesday of last week having been ill only since the preceding Friday.

  Cleo Olive Norris, daughter of L. J. and Minnie Norris, was born July 29, 1896 and died at her home near Numa Feb. 11, 1947 at the age of 50 years, six months and 13 days.

  With the exception of a few months she lived her entire life in Appanoose County. She completed her high school in Centerville, graduating as valedictorian with the class of 1915.

  On Nov. 28, 1917 she was united in marriage with Edward P. Inman. To this union seven sons were born, all surviving: namely, Lazelle and Byron at Numa, Wendall, Milfred, Arthur, Kenneth and Donald at home. She is also survived by her husband, her aged mother, three daughters-in-law, three grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father.

  She was united with the Methodist Church in Jerome during the Rev. Kremeyer's services in 1909, and remained true to her faith throughout her entire life.

  She was a loving mother, a faithful wife, a kind neighbor and friend, and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

  With the Rev. M. R. Gonzales of Mystic-Jerome Charge officiating, funeral services were held at the Jerome Methodist Church Friday, Feb. 14, at 2:30 p.m. The Young Married People's Choir of the Jerome Methodist Church sang two very consoling hymns: "Does Jesus Care?" and "When the Mists Have Rolled Away." She was laid to rest in the Jerome Cemetery.

Card of Thanks

  We wish to thank our neighbors and friends for the many acts of kindness so graciously rendered during our recent bereavement. It will never be forgotten.

  --Ed Inman and family

  --Mrs. Minnie Norris

JEROME - 10 February 1947

The Seymour Herald - 13 February 1947

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  Miss Phyllis Hawkins of Des Moines spent the week end at the parental W. E. Hawkins home.

  Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Ervin have moved to the Kinney farm which they and their son Paul purchased last fall. Paul and family are living in the old Kinney homestead and Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Ervin in the smaller house.

  Mrs. Wm. Hefner had a heart attack last Wednesday and is some improved. Mr. and Mrs. Mervin Burkett and family of Des Moines spent the week end with them and Mrs. Burkett remained for a longer stay.

  Mr. and Mrs. Peter Sidles attended the graduating ceremony of their daughter, Virginia, held at the Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines last Monday. There is only one commencement each year and Virginia will have a few months work before she has completed her course.

  Mrs. Edward Inman is seriously ill at her home southeast of town. She suffered a stroke a few days ago.

  Mr. and Mrs. Dougal Forsythe of Mystic spent Sunday afternoon at the home of Mr. Forsythe's sister, Mrs. Wm. Hefner and family.

  The service flag that was hung in the Methodist church in February 1942 was removed last Sunday and in honor of those who had given their lives and those that had served and continue to serve the American flag and the Christian flag were presented to the church and dedicated in their honor. The service flag had three gold stars.

  The followship supper that was to be held last Friday night was called off because of the weather.

  Mrs. James Felkner returned from Des Moines last Friday after spending several weeks at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Chester Jarnajin and family.

  A patriotic tea will be held in the social rooms of the Methodist Church Feb. 13 at 1:30 in the afternoon. Mrs. Joe Beer, Mrs. Bill Clark and Mrs. Earl Fry are hostesses.

  Rev. M. R. Gonzalez attended the preachers school in Des Moines last week. It was held in the Savory Hotel and over two hundred attended. He returned home on Friday.

JEROME - 20 January 1947

The Seymour Herald - 23 January 1947

--------------------------

  Mr. and Mrs. Mervin Burkett and sons Raymond and Billy spent last week end at the parental Wm. Hefner home.

  Harry Sidles of Ames and Virginia Sidles of Des Moines spent last week end at the parental Peter Sidles home.

  Mrs. James Felkner is spending several days in Des Moines with her daughter, Mrs. Chester Jarnajin and family, and caring for the new grandson that arrived January 13.

  Mrs. Roy H. Mills of Westwood, New Jersey has spent the last week with her brothers, Geo. and Peter Sidles families.

  Mr. and Mrs. Paul Felkner and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mincks attended the Appanoose county Institute for Sunday School workers held in Centerville last week from Monday through Friday.

  Mrs. Guy Streepy of Udell returned home Wednesday evening after spending several days with her sister, Miss Susie Sidles. Mrs. Ray Deibert from Sac City returned on Friday after spending a week at the Sidles home.

  Mrs. J. H. Matkin of Seymour, Mrs. Roy H. Mills of Westwood, New Jersey, Miss Georgia Sidles of Sioux City spent last Tuesday with Miss Susie Sidles and with Mrs. Ray Delbert and Mrs. Guy Streepy who were at home.

  James Crouch of Wheaton, Ill., called on his cousins, the Hawkins families, and on old friends in this vicinity last Sunday. The Crouchs formerly lived in this community.

  Miss Leona Griffin of Muscatine was a week end guest of the Gonzalazes in Mystic and attended the church service in Jerome Sunday.

  Since Xmas the choir of the Methodist Church has been meeting in homes. Last week they met at Paul Ervins' home and this week with Richard Mincks.

Edward Franklin Loop, 1881-1947

The Seymour Herald - 23 January 1947

-------------------------

Funeral Services for Edward Loop

  Funeral services for Ed Loop were held in the Methodist Church in Seymour Wednesday, January 15, at 2 p.m., the Rev. W. W. Watson officiating.

  Music was furnished by Mrs. Virgil Shepherd and Mrs. Florice Shepderd with Mrs. Mary Burchett accompanist. Selections were: "Whispering Hope" and "Lead Kindly Light."

  Pallbearers were: Albert Couchman, Lawrence Collins, Med Henderson, Clark Long, Ray Crist and Dee Bettis.

  Interment was made in Southlawn cemetery.

------------------------------------

  Edward Franklin Loop, son of Albert and Barbara Schungle Loop, was born near Asherville in Mitchell county, Kansas June 18, 1881. He departed this life Jan. 12, 1947 at his home near Seymour, Iowa, being 65 years, 6 months, and 25 days of age. He was united in marriage with Bitha L. Masters August 28, 1918 at Promise City, Iowa. One daughter, Kathryn, came to bless the home. He was the ninth child in a family of 13 children and was preceded in death by his father, mother, three brothers and five sisters. Those remaining to mourn his passing are his wife and daughter, Kathryn McElvain, his son-in-law, Harold McElvain, two grandchildren, Virginia and Kenneth McElvain and the following brothers and sisters: A. R. Loop, Beloit, Kansas; P. W. Loop, Asherville, Kansas; Mrs. E. E. Fisher, Stockton, Kansas; and James A . Loop, Lawrence, Kansas; also nieces and nephews. One nephew, Orrin Hotchkiss, of Liberty, Missouri, was reared in the Loop home as a brother.

  Ed grew to manhood in Mitchell county, Kansas, and spent most of his time there until November 1919 when he came to Iowa. At an early age he became a member of the Christian Church at Asherville, Kansas and after coming to Iowa, attended the Methodist church at Kniffin and Bollman Chapel as long as services were held there. He was always interested in the church and its work. His Christian spirit was shown in both word and deed, as he was always seen standing for the right and denouncing the wrong. His cheerful disposition showed through his long illness and just a few days before his passing expressed a wish to go where he could have rest, free from all pain. The following poem by Grace Noll Crowell seems fitting at this time:

    The day was long, the burden I had borne

    Seemed heavier than I could longer bear.

    And then it lifted -- but I did not know

    Some one had knelt in prayer.

    Had taken me to God that very hour,

    And asked the easing of the load, and He,

    In infinite compassion, had stooped down

    And taken it from me.

    We cannot tell how often as we pray

    For some hurt one, bewildered, and distressed,

    The answer comes -- but many times those hearts

    Find sudden peace and rest.

    Someone had prayed, and Faith, a reaching hand;

    Took hold of God, and brought Him down that day

    So many, many hearts have need of prayer,

    Oh, let us pray!

  Out of town relatives who attended the funeral were:  Mr. and Mrs. James Loop of Lawrence, Kansas and Mr. and Mrs. Orrin Hotchkiss, of Liberty, Mo.

Card of Thanks

  We wish to extend our sincere personal thanks, to all of our neighbors and friends, for the lovely flowers, the words of sympathy, the food, and all acts of kindness to us in the loss of our husband, father and brother.

  Mrs. E. F. Loop

  Mr. and Mrs. H. K. McElvain, Virginia and Kenneth

  Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Loop

JEROME

The Seymour Herald - 2 January 1947

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  Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. Jones and son Frankie of Ottumwa spent last Saturday at the Ida Mincks home.

  Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Moore and son Jerry spent New Years eve with the Zora Rash family in Seymour.

  Mrs. Emma Ogle of Centerville spent Xmas day with Kathryn and Cadd Hawkins where a family dinner was served. Miss Phyllis Hawkins of Des Moines was also present and a home visitor.

  Mr. and Mrs. Dougal Forsythe of Mystic and Howard Hart of Centerville attended the family dinner at the Wm. Hefner home on Xmas day.

  The Paul Ervin family spent Xmas day with the Orville Swan family south of town.

  Harry Sidles of Ames and Virginia Sidles of Des Moines were holiday guests at the parental Peter Sidles home.

  Miss Carolyn Morris of Des Moines spent last week end at the J. G. Morris home. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Morris and son Eddie of Mystic rural route were also week end and Xmas eve guests at the family home.

  Mrs. Roy Glenn and Carol of Seymour spent last Friday with Miss Susie Sidles.

  The Methodist Church gave a very nice Xmas service on Xmas eve. The committee in charge was Mrs. Joe Beer, Mrs. Lazelle Inman and Mrs. Bert T. Murphy. The presence of Santa Claus at the close was a thrill to all the children who were given a treat.

  After the service the choir sang carols for Miss Cadd Hawkins who has been ill for several months.

  Miss June Cochran of Des Moines spent Xmas and several days at the parental Loyd Cochran home.

  Mr. and Mrs. John Ponsetto spent Xmas day with her parents, the Otha Fenton family, on Mystic rural route.

  Mrs. Lyda Bollman spent the Xmas holidays with her son Clay Hickie and family in Des Moines.

  Burdette Workman of Davenport spent the Xmas holiday at the parental J. W. Workman home.

  The next fellowship supper of the Methodist Church will be held on Friday, January 3.

  Donald Owen of Ames spent several days with his brother Kenneth and family.

Lincoln Township Farm Bureau Meets

The Seymour Herald - 16 January 1947

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  The Lincoln Township Farm Bureau met Tuesday, January 7, at the Jerome School. Mrs. Dorothy Ervin, township chairman, opened the meeting by reading the report of the Secretary and Treasurer.

  A new name was suggested for the group and will be voted upon at the next meeting. A collection was taken up. A discussion was given on racial problems which was very interesting.

  Those present were: Dorothy Ervin, Ida Mincks, Frances Owen, Lora Hawkins, Harriett Hefner and Kessie Radcliff. Mrs. Helen McElvain and Mrs. Lizzie Hefner were appointed to serve at the next meeting which will be held Tuesday, Feb. 4.

  After a pleasant social hour refreshments of sandwiches, pie and coffee were served.