Methodist Family Dinner

One of the favorite events of the Jerome Methodist Church has been the family and community dinners at which everyone brought some food and shared it with everyone else. These pictures were probably taken during the late 1940s.

1930s Methodist Sunday School Class

Back Row

Agnes Buckallew, Donna Hibbs, Mary Lou Morris,

Genevieve Rash, Shirley Johnson

and Louise Condra (Teacher).

Middle Row

Marjorie McElvain, Phyllis Hawkins, Deloris Rash

and Barbara King.

Front Row

Delbert King, Paul Van Blaricom and Freeman Squires

Alfred McClure Allan, 1904-1972

The Guthrian - Guthrie Center, IA - 24 July 1972

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Rites for Allen [Allan] Are Tuesday

  Final rites for Alfred M. Allen [Allan] will be Tuesday morning July 25, at 11:00.  The services at Beidelman Funeral Home will be officiated by Rev. Milton Kinney. Interment will be at the Union Cemetery.  Allen [Allan] is survived by his wife, Beatrice; one daughter, Shirley Bentz, Newton; on son, Larry, New York; one sister, Margaret Hardy of Jerome, Iowa; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

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The Guthrian - Guthrie Center, IA - 7 August 1972

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  Alfred McClure Allen [Allan] was born July 5, 1904 in Jerome, Iowa. He passed away July 23, 1972.  He is survived by his wife, one son, one daughter, one grandson, one granddaughter, one great grandson, one great, granddaughter and one sister.  
  He united with the Believers Church in 1925. He knew Christ as his personal Savior and looked to him for strength in his long years of illness.  
  Memorial services were held at O. J. Beidelman Funeral Home July 25, 1972. The Rev. J. Milton Kinney officiated, and interment was at Union Cemetery, Guthrie Center, Iowa.

Caroline Rinker Culver, 1846-1918

Caroline Rinker, wife of George Culver, was born at Farmington, Lee county, Iowa, on July 11, 1846, being 72 years, 3 months and 29 days of age when she passed into eternal rest.

Her illness was of short duration and her sudden passing was a great shock to her relatives and friends. Death was due to acute gastric and claimed her on Sunday evening, November 10.

Besides her husband, George Culver, her only child Mrs. Grant Robinson, and grandson, William Culver Robinson, two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Frost of Forest Grove, Mont., and Mrs. Emily Atherton of Chuquicamata, Chile, South America, and two brothers, Walter T. Rinker of Unionville, Mo., and Oliver C. Rinker of Milton, Oregon, survive her.

Friends may view the remains at Creel's chapel on Wednesday. Mr. Culver and Mrs. Robinson leave with the remains on Thursday afternoon for the old family home, Seymour, Ia., where interment will be made.

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The editor greatly appreciates the contribution of the above obituary to The Jerome Journal by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

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Caroline Rinker was born 11 July 1846 in Farmington, Lee county, Iowa, daughter of Jonathan Rinker (1810-1886) and Elizabeth Flinn (1810-1893), died 10 November 1918 in Montana, and was buried in Southlawn Cemetery [Section 4, Row 9] in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa. She married 21 October 1872 in Appanoose County, Iowa, George Culver who was born 12 February 1849 in Washington Township, Morris County, New Jersey, son of Sherwood Hilton Culver and Arminda Nichols, died 14 November 1924 probably in Montana, and buried in Southlawn Cemetery [Section 4, Row 9] in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa.

One daughter was born of this union: Ethel Culver was born 19 August 1873 in Iowa and died 18 January 1964 in Los Angeles, California. She married about 1897 Grant Robison, who was born 10 September 1865 in California and died 4 November 1959 in California. One son was born of this union: William Culver Robinson was born 5 May 1906 in Montana and died 12 January 1945 in Los Angeles, California.

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References

--1880 U.S. Federal Census, Helena, Lewis and Clark, Montana; Roll T9_742; ED 18; Page 280.1000: George Culver, Head, 29, born New Jersey, Laborer, Father born NY, Mother born NY; Caroline Culver, Wife, 32, born Iowa, Keeping House, Father born KY, Mother born IN; Ethel Culver, Daughter, 7, born Iowa, Father born NJ, Mother born IA.

--1885 Iowa Census, Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Roll IA1885_144, Dwelling #44, Township 68, Range 19, Section 15, SW SE; Family #46: Jonathan Rinker, 74, Married, Farmer, Born KY; Elizabeth Rinker, 74, Married, Born KY; Family #47: George Culver, 33, Married, Farmer, Born NJ; Caroline Culver, 37, Married; Ethel Culver, 10, Single.

--1900 U.S. Federal Census, Lewiston, Fergus, Montana, Roll T623_911, ED 27, Page 13B: Township 15N, Range 18E, Dwelling #297, Family #328: George Culver, Head, 51, Born Feb 1849 in NJ, Married 28 years, Father born NJ, Mother born NJ, Farmer, Can Read, Write and Speak English, Owned Farm Free; Caroline Culver, Wife, 53, Born Jul 1846 in IA, Married 28 years, Father born KY, Mother born KY, Can Read, Write and Speak English.

--1910 U.S. Federal Census, School District 1, Fergus, Montana, Roll T624_831, ED 107, Page 15A, Dwelling #9, Family #9: George Culver, Head, 59, Marriage 1, Married 38 years, Born NJ, Father born NJ, Mother born NJ, Speaks English, Farmer; Caroline Culver, Wife, 61, Marriage 1, Married 38 years, Born IA, Father born KY, Mother born VA, Speaks English; Joseph Bowens, Hired Hand, 26, Single, Born IA, Father born U.S., Mother born U.S., Speaks English, Farm Laborer.

--Montana Death Index, 1860-2007 on Ancestry.com: Caroline Culver, 72, female, Died 10 Nov 1918, Index Number 58578, Montana Office of Vital Statistics.

--Iowa Cemetery Records on Ancestry.com, Grave Stone Records of Wayne County, Iowa: Geo. Culver, died 14 Nov 1924, Page #25, born 1851, Cemetery: Southlawn, Town: Seymour.

--Family Trees on Ancestry.com: Worent2112007, owner worenrr of East Peoria, IL.

--WorldConnect on RootsWeb.com: David posted by David Strong on 1 Sept 2005.

Second Stroke Fatal to Purley Rinker

Attorney Purley Rinker, life-long resident of Appanoose county, died at his home 544 North Main street, at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 5, 1952. Death followed a second paralytic stroke. He had been recovering from a stroke he had suffered in August of 1950. According to attending physicians he made a remarkable recovery although still hampered by the effects of his illness. He was up and about until the stoke last Monday. He had been paralyzed on the right side by the first stroke and the second one affected his left side. Everything possible was done in his behalf but he grew rapidly worse until his death.

Mr. Rinker was born near Numa December 15, 1881, the son of Robert F. and Julia A. Rinker. He graduated from the University of Iowa Law School in 1909 and came to Centerville, where he had practiced since.

Attorney Rinker was an accomplished speaker and a notable student of Abraham Lincoln. He had made various addresses here and elsewhere. At the time the Knights of Pythias Lodge was active here he held a state office.

He had farm interests as well as his legal practice and was widely known.

He never married.

In death he leaves two sisters, Miss Leola Rinker, who lived with him at his home here, and Mrs. Neil Watts,l of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and a brother, Dr. Geo. E. Rinker, of Otto, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 o'clock from the Johnson Funeral home, with the Rev. F. J. Ackman officiating. Burial will be in the Jerome cemetery.

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Purley Rinker's Gravestone
in the Jerome Cemetery

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The editor appreciates the contribution of the above obituary to The Jerome Journal by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Rinker War Time Letter Was Discovered

Had Been in Old Building at Livingston

and Was from O. C. Rinker to His Wife

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A very interesting letter came to light in tearing down the old land mark at Livingston known as the old red house. John Ackley has sent in to Purley Rinker a letter he found there which he felt sure would be of interest to the Rinker family, coming as it did from O. C. Rinker while he was in the service at Ft. Smith, Ark. in 1863. Though 52 years old the letter is well preserved. It is as follows:

Ft. Smith, Ark., Nov. 29th, 1863.

Dear Wife:

Again I seat myself to try to get a letter to you. Do not think that I have not written to you for I have written at every opportunity I have had to send you letters. The reason that you do not get them I cannot tell.

I am happy to say that my health is good, also the health of Frank and George [his brothers]. The health of the entire company is very good. W. W. Norwood has been very sick but he is recovering as fast as can be expected. I was glad to hear that all were well and also of the recovery of father. I received five letters from you yesterday, it being the first time that I heard from you since you left Nebraska. The latest dated one bore the date of Oct. 21st. This came in a letter from Captain Harvey.

It is altogether a mistake about the officers having an opportunity to send letters and the men not. They all have the same chance. It is true that there is or was some men that traveled from Ft. Gibson to Ft. Scott, but they did not carry any mail either for officers or men. They carried nothing but official papers. But thank the Lord we have now got to where there is a mail line and hope we will not leave it for about eight months. We arrived here yesterday and thank the Lord we have got to see some corn once more. Our horses are very thin, that is the most of them. I have one that is in good order. Frank's looks terrible. George has lost his horse. He was stolen from him while he was grazing him in the cane brake, but I think that he can get another one without costing him very much.

We are now under General McNeal. He has superceded Blunt. As for my self I am pleased with the exchange. McNeal is an Iowa man. There are a good many troops in the place and vicinity. I understand that there are about thirty thousand men. We are expecting to have a fight or a footrace pretty soon with the forces of Cooper and Price. They are in about forty miles of here and there is a portion of our cavalry that is annoying them all the time. As for our regiment we cannot have any of that sport, as our stock is so reduced that it would not be safe. But if we get to feed them corn for a month then the old Sixth can give them all trouble.

We arrived here yesterday. The Iowa 18th is here and as for the other troops I cannot tell as I have not learned yet. I saw Captain Mallory this morning. He is in the 18th.

You spoke in one of your letters concerning the repairing of a portion of our fence. Say to father that he knows what is better than I do, and if the fence needs repairing, have it done, that is if he can pay it with the rent from the place. I do not want to pay the money out for it just now unless he cannot get it done without it. I want you to take as good care of yourself as you can and I will try and do the same. Concerning us coming back to the border, there is strong talk of us going back to the boarder of Arkansas and Missouri. Ewing is calling for the 6th and I think he will eventually get us. If we do come there then you may look for me to come home, but I cannot come from here. The distance is too great and the road is too dangerous.

Ever remaining your true husband, O. C. Rinker to his wife.

Direct your letters to Springfield, Mo., instead of Ft. Scot.

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The editor appreciates the contribution of this unidentified newspaper clipping to The Jerome Journal by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Robert Franklin Rinker & Julia Ann Brinkley

Centerville Iowegian - 1 September 1911

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R. F. Rinker Died Thursday Evening

Funeral Will Be Sunday With Burial at Seymour

Well Known Citizen of the County

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One of Appanoose county's best known and most sturdy citizens passed away about 5 o'clock Thursday evening, Aug. 31, 1911, when Robert F. Rinker succumbed to an illness of considerable duration. He has been in poor health for about two years with kidney trouble, hardening of the arteries and other complications. While death was not unexpected at any time his last attack came on but a day or two before the end. He was conscious much of the time the last 24 hours. His death was at the home, 544 N. Main, the members of the family present being his wife, son Purley and daughter Nellie.

Robert F. Rinker was born Sept. 10, 1839 in Lawrence county, Ind. When 9 years old his parents moved to Farmington, Iowa and to Lincoln twp., Appanoose county, when he was 14. His patriotic spirit led him to enlist in the war, he going into Co. B, 6th Kansas cavalry, when no Iowa regiment was available at the time. With him were two brothers, Joe and O. C., the former of whom as killed and the latter lives at Milton, Oregon. He also leaves a brother, W. T. Rinker, of Unionville, Mo., and three sisters, Mrs. Emily Atherton, Spokane, Wash; Mrs. Elizabeth Frost and Mrs. Cal Cluver, Lewiston, Mont. He was married to Miss Julia Brinkley at Linneus, Mo., April 1, 1866. They immediately located on a farm he bought a half mile from the home place in Lincoln township, which consists of 270 acres owned by him at the time of his death. Ten children were born to them, W. J., Linneus, Mo; John E., Cripple Creek, Colo; Thomas M., Ashland, Kan; C. H., Anthon, Ia; Robert F. Jr., New Rockford, N. Dak; George E., Oto, Ia; Mary R., deceased when 16 years old; Purley, Leola and Nellie at home.

Mr. Rinker was a member of the Masonic lodge, the G.A.R. and of Methodist inclination in church affiliation, tho he did not hold membership in same. He was a man of striking personality and vigorous activity. He was an ardent republican, taking an active part in party councils and conventions, tho never a candidate for office himself, except as he was called on to fill various positions of responsibility in his township and school affairs. He was the head of a splendid family, who are now occupying positions of trust and usefulness and making careers for themselves. He was the best kind of a neighbor, and the qualities of his citizenship were such that any community would have been fortunate to have had his example and counsel.

On his health failing he moved to Centerville in August, 1910. Here many friends took an interest in his health and hoped that relief from farm duties would restore him, but such was not to be. He came to the end of his days in the esteem of his fellow men, and will be mourned by a large number of acquaintances who appreciated his worth as a man.

Funeral Services

Brief funeral services will be held at the home here at 10:45 Sunday morning, after which the body will be taken by train to Seymour and services will be held there in the Methodist church at 1:30 and burial in the Seymour cemetery.

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From an Unidentified Newspaper Obituary

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Called by Death

Mrs. Julia A. Rinker, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Brinkley, was born on the 4th day of September, 1845 in Fayette county, Ohio, and passed away at her residence in Centerville, Iowa, on the 11th day of October, 1929.

While Mrs. Rinker was in her infancy her parents moved to Lee county, Iowa, near the town of Charleston, where they lived for eight years. The family then came to Appanoose county, Iowa, seventy-six years ago, locating about one mile west of Numa, Iowa, on what is now known as the Francis Leek farm, moving later to what is now known as the McElvane farm west of Numa, Iowa and living there fore four years, from whence the family moved to Linn county, Mo. Mrs. Rinker united with the Methodist church in this vicinity, was a teacher in the public schools, and at the age of twenty years, in 1865, was united in marriage with Robert F. Rinker, who had just returned from four years of service in the civil war.

They located on a farm three miles west of Numa, Iowa, and lived there until 1910, when on account of her husband's illness they moved to Centerville, Iowa. As a raesult of their union, ten children were born. W. J.; Rinker, of Linneus, Mo., John E. Rinker of Denver, Colo., T. M. Rinker, Ashland, Kan., Robert F. Rinker, New Rockford N.D., George E. Rinker, Oto, Iowa, Mary Rinker, Purley Rinker of Centerville; Leola Rinker of Ames, Iowa, and Nellie Rinker Watts, of Waggoner, Okla. Mrs. Rinker is preceded in death by her husband, Robert F. Rinker, who died in 1911 and by Mary Rinker, who died at the age of 15 years, and C. H. Rinker, who died at the age of 48 years.

Mrs. Rinker's death was due to a long continued case of heart trouble, or gradual thinning of the heart walls. She had a bright and active mind, and to the very last day of her life remained an active interest in all the affairs of life, and especially in her family and close friends. She was never too busy to turn aside and utter a word of hope and good cheer to those with whom she came in contact.

Present arrangements for funeral are for services to be held at the Methodist church in this city Monday, October 14, at 2 p.m. Interment will be in Seymour cemetery.

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The above was taken from the Centerville Iowa paper. The funeral was conducted by Rev. Lloyd Lanning who is pastor of this Methodist church from which the funeral occurred. Mrs. Rinker's home was just two blocks from the church where she had her membership. The several sons acted as pallbearers.

Mrs. Rinker was the oldest sister of the late Alexander Brinkley, of this city. Mr. Wm. Brinkley and Major Rinker attended the funeral. Mr. and Mrs. James Stinson were visiting at the home of T. M. Rinker at Ashland, Kansas, when word was received of the death. They left there immediately for Centerville.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above obituaries by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Orpha Chloe Sidles & Ira Ray Deibert

Sac Sun, Sac City, Iowa - May 1981

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Orpha (Sidles) Deibert

Orpha Sidles, daughter of John and Elvira Sidles, was born at Jerome, Iowa, on March 9, 1894. She attended the grade schools at Jerome. After graduation from high school at Centerville, she attended and graduated from Cornell College, Mt. Vernon, Iowa.

She came to Sac City in 1920 as a Jr. High history teacher. After one year she became Junior High Principal. She continued to teach until her marriage.

Orpha Chloe Sidles - 1894-1981

On July 23, 1924, she was united in marriage to Ira Ray Deibert. She has always been active and interested in the social and organizational life of Sac City. She served on the Library Board, Corrective Loan Board, was a member of Federated Women's Club, Eastern Star, Past Matrons, United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women.

Death came at Loring Hospital on May 4, 1981. Her own words were so descriptive of her last days when she said, "I'm just wearing out."

Preceding her in death were her parents, four sisters and two brothers. She was the last of her generation. In fact, we are witnessing more than the passing of a life. Orpha's death marks the passing of an era.

She is survived by three sister-in-laws: Ruby Deibert of Odebolt, Margaret Deibert of Minneapolis, MN, and Myra (Deibert) Bisgrove of Earlville, IA. Eleven nieces and nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.

Eastern Star services were held Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the Farber and Otteman Funeral Home by O.E.S. No 18.

Funeral services were held from the United Methodist Church on Wednesday, May 6 at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Carroll E. Robinson officiating. Piano Interlude, Berceuse in D-flat major by Frederick Chopin and Pre-Medley Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross, How Firm a Foundation, Abide With Me, Bless Be The Tie That Binds, were played by Bruce Perry.

Flowers were cared by Mrs. Hubert Perry, Mrs. Lelva Ritter and Marjo Florist.

Pallbearers were Hubert Perry, Loren Hechtner, Frank Strain, Duane VonAhn, Richard Brown, and Robert Mandernach.

Interment was made at Oakland Cemetery, Sac City. Farber and Otteman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

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Orpha & Ray Deibert - 1953

Orpha and Ray Deibert - February 1954 in Augusta GA

Orpha and Ray Deibert - Christmas 1954

The Deiberts sent out Christmas cards each year

with pictures of their horses or dogs.

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Sac Sun, Sac City, Iowa - 23 August 1972

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"Ray" Deibert Dies, Longtime Sac City Businessman

A long-time business man in Sac City, Ira "Ray" Deibert, passed away last Tuesday, August 15, at the age of 79.

Eastern Star services were held at the Farber and Otteman Funeral Home at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 16, and services were held at the United Methodist Church in Sac City at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 17 with the Rev. Fred J. Marsh officiating.

Music was provided by Bruce Perry and accompanist Miss Julie Irwin. Floral tributes ere cared for by Mrs. Byron Ellis, Mrs. Fred Richter and Marjo Florist.

Honorary attendants were Harris Dickey, Arthur Fogde, Orla Irwin, George Nelson, Fred Ehrhardt, Frank Hoffman, Harry Motter and Guy Wickersheim.

Attendants were Gordon Brown, Robert Mandernach, Duane VonAhn, Richard Brown, Dayton Smith and Walter Wadsley.

Burial was in the Oakland Cemetery in Sac City with Masonic Graveside rites by Lodge No. 178 A.F. and A. M.

Ira Ray Deibert, always called "Ray," was born to Jeremiah and Flora Braymer Deibert in Grant City, Sac County, Iowa, on December 26, 1892. He was the oldest of four children. His youth was spent in the Auburn area, he attended schools in and near Auburn, and at an early age learned to help his father with the farm work. Later the Deibert family moved to Cedar Township and still later into Sac City where Ray attended the local schools, soon adding to his schooling by a few months of study at a commercial college in Des Moines.

At 19 years of age, he went to work for the Farmers Lumber Company of Sac City, remaining with that corporation for 55 years. On August 24, 1916, he was married to Edna Grohe, who died 16 months later in an epidemic of influenza. On July 23, 1924, he was married to Orpah Sidles in her parents' home at Jerome. The couple had a new house ready for occupancy at 1017 Schaller Street, where they continued to reside through the years.

Ray was a Royal Arch Mason, a past patron of the Order of the Eastern Star, an officer in the Sac County Fair Association, and a charter member of the Sac City Kiwanis Club. As an additional interest, he was for years an amateur horseman, maintaining a stable of American Saddlebred horses which he showed widely throughout the midwest. He held state and national offices in both the Iowa and the American Horse Shows Associations and his picture hangs in the Iowa Horseman's Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife Orpha and by one sister, Myrna, and her husband Bisgrove of Earlville. His parents and two brothers, James and Elwood, preceded him in death by many years. Mrs. James Deibert resides in her home in Minneapolis and Mrs. Elwood Deibert resides in her home in Odebolt. There are six nieces and nephews: Margie Loger, Vivian Lashier, Donald Deibert, Marily Miller, Richard Bisgrove, and Rebecca Morhouse.

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Card of Thanks

To those who helped smooth the way for Ray through the past months, and for me during recent days, I can think of nothing more meaningful to say than a simple "thank you. God bless you all. -- Orpha Deibert

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The editor sincerely appreciates the Sac County Genealogical Society having found and sent the obituaries above to The Jerome Journal. The pictures were contributed by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Susie Ruth Sidles, 1885-1969

Unidentified Newspaper Obituary - 1969

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Susie Sidles Services Set

JEROME -- Susie R. Sidles, pioneer resident of Appanoose County, died July 13, 1969, at 10 p.m. in Corydon hospital at the age of 84 years. She had entered the hospital the previous day.

Miss Sidles was the daughter of John A. and Elvira Bradley Sidles and they established their home on a farm one mile west of Jerome, in Appanoose County back in 1881.

For many years she was a field worker for the American Home Finding Association of Ottumwa. Upon returning, she made her home on the home place west of Jerome until her death.

She was a lifetime member of the Jerome Methodist Church and the P.E.O. Sisterhood of Seymour, and the Ottumwa Chapters of DAR and Kings Daughters.

Funeral services will be held at Jerome Church at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Liggett Funeral Home of Seymour, is in charge of arrangements.

She was preceded in death by two sisters, Mrs. George E. Rinker (Effie) and Mrs. J. E. Contra (Ettie).

Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Ray Deibert (Ortha) of Sac City, and Mrs. Guy Streepy (Maurine) of Centerville.

The family requests no flowers.

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The Seymour Herald - 1969

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Jerome News Writer Died Sunday

Susie R. Sidles, the Herald's eldest news correspondent in years and length of service, died Sunday night at the Wayne County hospital where she had been a patient only 24 hours.

Funeral was Wednesday at the Jerome Methodist church and burial was a Jerome cemetery within sight of her life-time home.

In the absence of the Jerome Methodist church pastor, Rev. Kermit Gladfelder, Rev. Glen Lochhead, a former pastor, conducted the funeral.

Miss Sidles, 84, was born in the home where she spent most of her life. She was the daughter of pioneers, John A. and Elvira Sidles. After her education she was an assistant postmaster at Jerome and later a worker in the American Home Finding Association at Ottumwa. Upon her retirement from the latter job in the early 1940s she returned to Jerome and her home. She was writing news for The Herald when the present owners purchased the newspaper in 1947.

There were very few weeks during the past 22 years when Miss Sidles did not have a long column of Jerome and vicinity news. Her family noted that in recent years the news-writing task was an incentive to keep going when others might have given up. She dictated news to a friend as recently as two weeks ago.

She was a member of Chapter DM, PEO, the Ottumwa chapter of DAR and the King's Daughters in Ottumwa. Her principal activity was in the Methodist church of which she was a member, its Sunday school and women's society.

Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Ray Deibert of Sac City and Mrs. Guy Streepy of Centerville, two nephews, three nieces and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents, two sisters and two brothers.

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The Seymour Herald - 1 September 1949

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Editor's Note: In the 1 September 1949 issue of The Seymour Herald, the paper published pictures and articles about each of its community correspondents. Susie Sidles wrote the column on Jerome for many years.

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To write of Miss Susie Sidles, Jerome correspondent, one would tell of her home filled with memories and relics of a period many years ago. But the setting wouldn't fit a person who's as up-t0-date at this week's issue of Time magazine.

At her front door she has hung the lantern which went with the earlier members of her family to the cow barn every morning and night for milking. But, it has been electrified. Her living rooms are a collection of treasurers in Walnut, needlework and fine copper, pewter and glass. But, lying about, having just been read, are a dozen current periodicals . . . Holiday, Harpers, Better Homes and Gardens and others.

Miss Sidles lives in the home in which she was born and to her has been entrusted the care of the family's heirlooms. Six rooms house furniture, hardly marred, which came by covered wagon from Indiana with her ancestors.

She says there are 80 acres on the place and that with the help of Mike Ponsetto, Jerome man, she manages to keep things in good shape. Her yard is filled with flowers, shrubs and trees which are a haven for wild life.

As field secretary of American Home Finding in Ottumwa, an orphanage, Miss Sidles kept abreast with young people and young ideas. She was a member of the staff for 17 years. She is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Ottumwa, the W.S.C.S. and P.E.O.

For the unusual in hobbies Miss Sidles has turned to gourds. Not content with collecting specimens and growing them from seed, she has learned the technique of drying them for a year before they are suitable for painting or fashioning into articles. Charm strings, created from all sizes and shapes of gourds, hang at her door as do the wren houses which are made from hollowed fruit with a hole cut in the side. Her friends have tried, with some success, to duplicate her ability in growing the fruit.

A correspondent for several years, Miss Sidles has been one of the most regular ones. Her items represent the town of Jerome as well as the persons who live on farms each way from town.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above articles about Susie R. Sidles by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Louise Condra Hunt, 1914-2000

Unidentified Newspaper Obituary

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Louise Condra Hunt, 86, of Centerville died Sunday, Oct. 15, 2000, at Mercy Medical Center Long Term Care Unit.

She was born June 25, 1914, in Numa, the daughter of James Elmer and Ettie (Sidles) Condra.

She married Dean Richard Hunt Nov. 17, 1945, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. He preceded her in death in July 1949.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Louise Mathews, and her husband, Rick, of Centerville; two grandchildren, Jonathan Mathews and his wife, Amanda, of Centerville, and Sarah Zintz and her husband, Mike, of Plano.

Also preceding her in death were her parents and a brother, Merrill Condra.

She was a 1933 graduate of Centerville High School, graduated from Centerville Junior College and received her elementary education degree from Drake University. She taught school for 40 years, retiring in 1979 from teaching 30 years in the Centerville School System. Following retirement, she worked at Johnson-Lange Funeral Home for 16 years. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Esther Circle, Order of Eastern Star, Past Matrons Club, Appanoose County Retired Teachers, Hospital Auxiliary and the Appanoose County Historical Society.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Jim Gubser officiating. Burial will be held in the Unionville Cemetery in Unionville, Iowa. Visitation will be held at the Johnson-Lange Funeral Home all day today, Tuesday, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday evening.

A memorial has been established to the First United Methodist Church and the Centerville K-3 elementary school libraries and contributions may be left at the funeral home.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above obituary by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

Ettie M. Sidles & James Elmer Condra

  James Elmer Condra was born 22 September 1877 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, son of Frank Leander Condra (1847-1917) and Francis J. Arbojust (1848-1883), died November 1969 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery, Appanoose County, Iowa. He married 22 September 1908 at the Methodist Episcopal Church in Jerome, Iowa, Ettie Melvina Sidles who was born 10 September 1878 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, daughter of John Alexander Sidles (1853-1914) and Elvira Bradley (1853-1932), died 18 December 1961 in Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery, Appanoose County, Iowa. To this union two children were born:

  [1] Merrill Condra was born 5 July 1909 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 23 February 1994 at the Seymour Care Center in Seymour, Wayne County, Iowa, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery, Appanoose County, Iowa. He married 4 December 1936 in Unionville, Missouri, Jeanette Morris, who was born 4 April 1916, died 25 December 1980, and was buried in the Jerome Cemetery. To this union, one son was born: James Condra.

  [2] Louise Condra was born 25 June 1914 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, died 15 October 2000 at Mercy Medical Center Long Term Care Unit, in Centerville, Appanoose County, Iowa, and was buried in the Unionville Cemetery, Unionville, Appanoose County, Iowa. She married 17 November 1945 in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, Dean Richard Hunt who died in July 1949. To this union one daughter was born: Mary Louise.

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From Unidentified Newspaper Clipping

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  One of the most brilliant affairs of the season was the reception given by Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Sidles at their residence, west of Jerome, Tuesday evening, Sept. 22, 1908, in honor of the marriage of their daughter, Etta M. to Mr. J. E. Condra. The marriage ceremony was preformed by her pastor, Rev. Bishop at the M. E. church at 5:30 o'clock in the presence of a number of little girls and boys they being members of her Sunday School class.

  After the ceremony the bride and groom drove to the home of her father where the reception was held later in the evening to a number of relatives and friends. A three course luncheon was served consisting of fruit salad, cake and sherbet, ice cream, cake and chocolate-bananas and grapes. The evening was spent with music and in a social way the guests departing at a late hour showering congratulations on the happy couple. Both the contracting parties are well known and highly respected in Jerome, she having been a teacher in the M. E. Sunday school for a number of years and superintendent of the same for the past two years. He has been Justice of the Peace in Lincoln township for the past two years. They left Wednesday noon for Kansas City and will take a trip through the west. They will be at home to their many friends in wishing them long life and abundant joy.

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The editor sincerely appreciates the contribution of the above article to The Jerome Journal by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.

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The Seymour Herald - 28 December 1961
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Ettie Melvine Sidles Condra

  Mrs. J. E. Condra, 83, died Monday evening, Dec. 18, 1961, at the home of her daughter Mrs. Louise Hunt, 1219 Drake Ave., Centerville, where she had been bedfast since May.

  She was born Ettie Melvine Sidles, daughter of John A. and Elvira Bradley Sidles, at Exline Sept. 10, 1878. Since babyhood she lived with her parents on a farm one mile west of Jerome. She was a long time member of the Jerome Methodist church and served faithfully in the capacity of Sunday School teaching and in various offices of the church.

  She was married in the Jerome Methodist church Sept. 22, 1908, to James Elmer Condra, who survives. They lived on a farm west of Numa for 53 years.

  Besides her husband she is survived by a son, Merrill, of Numa and a daughter, Louise Hunt of Centerville, two grandchildren, Jim Condra of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Mary Louise Hunt of Centerville; three sisters, Susie R. Sidles of Jerome, Mrs. Orpha Deibert of Sac City and Mrs. Maurine Streepy of Centerville.

  She was preceded in death by one sister, Mrs. Effie Rinker, of Oto, who died Nov. 11, 1957, and by two brothers, Charley and Johnny, who died as children.

  Funeral service was held Wednesday, Dec. 20, 1961, at two o'clock from the Jerome Methodist church with the Rev. George McMullen officiating. Burial was in the Jerome cemetery.

  Two songs, "In the Garden" and "Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me," were sung by Max Ellis of Centerville, accompanied by Mrs. Catherine Mallett, church organist.

  The pallbearers were Merle Loofburrow, Paul McElvain, Paul Ervin, Joe Beer, Paul Felkner and Barney Mallett, all members of Mrs. Condra's Sunday School class.

CARD OF THANKS

  We express our gratitude and thanks for the many deeds of kindness and help given us in the death of our wife and mother.

  J.E. Condra, Merrill Condra, Louise Hunt

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  Transcribed from Seymour Area Death Notices and Obituaries, Items #7-8 on FHL Film #1673236 and The Seymour Herald of 28 December 1961.

George E. Rinker & Effie B. Sidles

George Earnest Rinker was born 31 May 1877 at their family's farm home east of Seymour in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, son of Robert Franklin Rinker (1839-1911) and Julia Ann Brinkley (1845-1929), died 16 September 1958 at a hospital in Sioux City, Woodbury County, Iowa, and was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City. He married 6 July 1902 at the home of the bride's parents west of Jerome, Appanoose County, Iowa, Effie Bradley Sidles who was born 19 January 1877 in Lincoln Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, near Jerome, daughter of John Alexander Sidles (1853-1914) and Elvira Bradley (1853-1932), died 11 November 1957 at a hospital in Sioux City, Woodbury County, Iowa, and was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City. To this union, three children were born:

[1] John Robert Rinker was born 25 August 1904 in Oto, Woodbury County, Iowa, and died 13 May 1989 in Augusta, Richmond County, Georgia. He married 27 February 1935 in The Little Brown Church Around the Corner in New York City, New York, Minnie Lillie McPherson who was born 23 August 1907, daughter of Jesse Franklin McPherson, in Abbeville, Vermilion Parish, Louisana. To this union, four children were born: Franklin McPherson, George Ernest, Geraldine and Carolyn.

[2] Vera Elvira Rinker was born 16 June 1910 in Oto, Woodbury County, Iowa, and died 18 April 2007 at Heritage Place, The Village at Brookwood, in Burlington, Alamance County, North Carolina. She married 3 July 1933 in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, Wayne E. Birchard who was born 2 January 1911 in Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, son of Elbert Birchard and Inez Parsons, and died 27 August 1998 at ManorCare Nursing Home, Normal, McLean County, Illinois.

[3] Julia Margaret "Peggy" Rinker was born 5 May 1917 in Oto, Woodbury County, Iowa, and died 1 November 2004 in West Hills, Los Angeles County, California. She married 8 February 1941 in Oto, Woodbury County, Iowa, Olaf "Oley" Neumann Thune Begtrup who was born 7 July 1917 in Minnesota and died 20 September 2006 in Los Angeles County, California. To this union, three children were born: Robert, Marilyn and Sylvia.

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From Unidentified Newspaper Clippings

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Rinker-Sidles - 1902

The nuptials of Geo. E. Rinker, of Matlock, Iowa, and Miss Effie B. Sidles of Jerome, were celebrated Sunday evening at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Sidles, Rev. P. C. Stire, of this city, performing the ceremony. The wedding was a quiet one, only the nearest relatives being present.The groom is a young man held in high esteem by all who know him and he is known by nearly every one in the vicinity of Seymour and Jerome, having grown to a goodly stature on his father's farm east of this city, and taught several terms of school in Appanoose and Wayne counties.

George Earnest Rinker &

Effie Bradley Sidles

The bride is the daughter of one of Lincoln township's wealthy and influential farmers; is a charming young lady, beloved by a host of friends, who will regret her departure from their midst.

They left early Monday morning for their home in Matlock, where George, as he is known to his friends here, is known as an M.D., having fitted himself for the profession by a through course at Sioux City. All join in wishing them a happy and prosperous career.

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Honor Rinker's On 40th Anniversary - 1942

Dr. and Mrs. George E. Rinker of Oto, with their daughters, Mrs. Wayne Birchaard of Pittsfield, Mass., and Mrs. O. N. Begtrup and baby of St. Louis, Mo., are spending the week with relatives and friends in this vicinity.

On July 6th Dr. and Mrs. Rinker were honored at two informal affairs held at the Sidles homestead now occupied by Susie R. Sidles, the occasion being the anniversary of their marriage there.

Effie Sidles Rinker & George Earnest Rinker
Celebrating Their 40th Anniversary

In the afternoon friends of the honored couple gathered to talk over old times. Those present included Nell Rinker Watts of Oklahoma City, Leola Rinker, Orpha VanNess, Emma Hagan Ogle, Mary VanNess and grand-daughter, Mary Hilliker, Laura Porter, Mrs. Wm. Porter and son John Edward, all of Centerville, Dr. W. H. Earnest, Mrs. W. O. Jamison, Emma McCulloch, Anna M. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. W. O. Bateman of Seymour, Marcy Rinker Widman of Kansas City, Mo.,

Mrs. Chester VanDyke, Mrs. Rose VanDyke, Exline; Mrs. Vera Owen and grandchildren Stanley and Judy Owen, Cadd Hawkins, Kathryn Hawkins, and Mrs. C. C. Bollman of Jerome.

Members of the Rinker and Sidles families held a reunion in the evening at which time a "poetical" mock wedding, a skit entitled "The Doctor" and patriotic reading music and talks

furnished the entertainment. Dr. Rinker was presented with a ring and Mrs. Rinker a locket by members of the immediate family and there were also several other gifts. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Condra, Mr. and Mrs. Merrill Condra and Jimmy, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Deibert, Sac City; Mr. and Mrs. Guy Streepy, Udell; Mrs. N. V. Watts, Miss Leola Rinker, Purley Rinker, Centerville; Mr. and Mrs. Joe I. Sidles and the hostess; Susie R. Sidles, Seymour; Miss Georgia Sidles, Sioux City; Mr. and Mrs. Peter Sidles and family, Howard, Harry, Virginia, Jimmy and Peter J., Jerome; Mr. and Mrs. George Sidles and daughters, Leona and Luella of Numa, Mrs. J. H. Matkin and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hefner of Seymour were also present.

40th Anniversary cakes with "ruby" colored icing were featured in the light refreshments served both afternoon and evening.

Both Dr. and Mrs. Rinker were reared in Appanoose county and both taught school there in their younger days. Soon after their marriage they moved to Woodbury county, where Dr. Rinker has practiced medicine at Oto for 39 years. Besides the two daughters accompanying them on their visit the Rinkers have a son, J. Robert, now a surgeon in Ft. Worth, Texas.

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5oth Anniversary Celebration - 1952

Effie Sidles Rinker & George Earnest Rinker

50th Anniversary Picture

Rinker Family Picture on 50th Wedding Anniversary

John Robert Rinker (son),

George Earnest Rinker, Effie Sidles Rinker,

Vera Rinker Birchard and Margaret Rinker Begtrup (daughters)

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Final Rites Held for Mrs. Rinker - 1957

Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Oto Congregational church for Mrs. George E. Rinker, widely known resident here, who died Monday, November 11, at a Sioux City hospital after entering the hospital Friday.

Rev. Willard Bell of Slayton, Minn., former pastor of the Oto Federated church about 23 years ago, conducted the services.

Two songs, Ivory Palaces and Where We'll Never Grow Old, were sung by Mr. and Mrs. John Willmott accompanied by Mrs. Arnold Lenoch at the piano.

Mrs. Leander Mead and Mrs. Harry Brooks served as the flower committee. Pallbearers were Jesse Benton, Jarvis Miller, Fred Johnk, Ralph Steinhoff, Floyd Scoles, Robert Carlson, Harry Brooks and Frand GoBell.

Burial was in Memorial park cemetery at Sioux City under the direction of the Hudgel funeral home of Anthon.

Effie Bradley Sidles, first child of John A. and Elvira Bradley Sidles, was born at Jerome, Ia., January 19, 1877. She attended the public schools of Jerome and Milton, later studying at Highland Park college in Des Moines after which she taught for a few years in the rural schools of Appanoose county and in the towns of Numa and Carlisle.

July 6, 1902 she was united in marriage to George Ernest Rinker who had grown to manhood in a neighboring community in Appanoose county and was at the time of their marriage completing work for a degree in medicine.

They established temporary homes in Matlock and Sioux City and came to Oto in the spring of 1903 where they since lived for 54 years.

To this union three children were born, J. Robert of Augusta, Ga., (Vera) Mrs. Wayne Birchard of Normal, Ill., and (Margaret) Mrs. Olaf N. Begtrup of Rockford, Ill.

Mrs. Rinker became a member of the Methodist church in her youth and a great deal of her life's activities centered in the work of the church.

She was a member of the Oto Rebekah lodge and a past noble grand of that order. She was a past matron of the Order of Eastern Star, more recently having served for years as chaplain of that order, a position she held at the time of her death.

She was a charter member of the Sioux-Med-Dames, an organization for wives of Woodbury county medical men, and a charter member of the Oto Study club organized in 1909. As recently as October 31 she attended the meeting of that club held with Mrs. Laura Day as hostess. At the annual county convention of the Federated Women's clubs held in Sioux City last spring, Mrs. Rinker received a corsage for being the oldest woman present.

Mrs. Rinker served as Sunday school teacher, superintendent and treasurer for many years, and was an active worker in the Mite Society. She was a long-time member of the Oto Cemetery association. She worked in the Red Cross and represented Oto in the work of the Goodwill Industries. She also served for several years on the Oto school board.

Her husband, Dr. Rinker, survives, as do their three children, and seven grandchildren: Geraldine, George, Carolyn and Franklyn Rinker and Robert, Marilyn and Sylvia Begtrup. Mrs. Rinker also is survived by four sisters: Mrs. J. E. Condra, Susie R. Sidles and Mrs. Guy Streepy, all of Appanoose county, and Mrs. Ray Deibert of Sac City.

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Veteran Oto Doctor Dies - 1958

Dr. George E. Rinker, 81, physician at Oto since May, 1903, died Tuesday at a Sioux City hospital.

Dr. Rinker was the recipient of community honors at Oto in 1953 on the occasion of his 50th anniversary in practice there. Until purchasing his first car in 1913, he was Oto's "horse and buggy" doctor.

In addition to his extensive medical practice he was active in civic, lodge and Congregational church work at Oto. He was a former mayor, president of the board of education, member of the town council and chairman of the Congregational church board.

Dr. Rinker was a member of the Masonic lodge at Smithland, Sioux City Consistory 5 and Abu-Bekr Shrine.

He was graduated from the Sioux City Medical school in 1903 and for 55 years practiced at Oto. He was a member of the American Medical Association, and the Iowa Medical and Woodbury County Medical societies.

Dr. Rinker was born May 31, 1877 at Numa, Ia. His wife, whom he married July 6, 1902, was born at Jerome, Ia. They celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with open house at the Congregational church at Oto July 6, 1952. Mrs. Rinker died in November, 1957.

A son and two daughters, who are among the survivors and who were present for the wedding anniversary observance, are Dr. Robert Rinker of Augusta, Ga., Mrs. Wayne Birchard of Normal, Ill., and Mrs. Olaf Begtrup of Rockford, Ill.

Other survivors include two sisters, Miss Leola Rinker of Centerville, Ia., and Mrs. Noah V. Watts of Oklahoma City, Okla., and seven grandchildren.

The body was taken to the Hudgel funeral home at Anthon.

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Funeral Services Held Thursday for Dr. Rinker - 1958

Funeral services were held at two o'clock Thursday afternoon at the Congregational church for Dr. George E. Rinker, Oto physician for more than 50 years, who passed away in a Sioux City hospital Tuesday, September 16. The Rev. John H. Roger officiated. During the services Mr. and Mrs. John Willmott sang "Ivory Palaces" and "Where We'll Never Grow Old" accompanied by Mrs. Arnold Lenoch.

Interment was in Memorial park cemetery, Sioux City, under the direction of the Hudgel funeral home of Anthon. Serving as pallbearers were Mervin Jackson, Paul Phillips, Herald Hamann, Wilber McNear, Wm. Green, Roy Slentz, Millard Allman and Howard Koerner.

Mrs. H. A. Brooks Jr., and Mrs. Leander Mead were in charge of flowers.

George Earnest Rinker was born to Franklin and Julia Ann Brinkley Rinker at their farm home east of Seymour, Iowa, May 31, 1877, the sixth of a family of ten chidren: William J. John, Thomas, Homer, Frank, George, Mary, Purley, Leola and Nellie.

After completing a grade school education he taught rural school. Previous to entering the Sioux City college of Medicine Dr. Rinker attended Highland Park College.

On July 6, 1902, he was united in marriage with Effie Bradley Sidles of Jerome, Iowa. He was graduated from the Sioux City Medical school in 1903 after which they moved to Oto where he practiced for more than 50 years. In addition to his medical practice he was active in civic, lodge and church work. He was a former mayor, member of the town council and fillled offices, over a long period of time, in his church.

He was a member of the I.O.O.F., Royal Neighbor and Masonic lodges, Sioux City consistory 5 and Abu-Bekr Shrine.

Professionally he was an honorary member of Phi Chi, medical fraternity, and a member of the county, state and national medical societies.

In 1952 the community helped Dr. and Mrs. Rinker celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, and the following year Dr. Rinker was the recipient of community honors on the occasion of his 50th anniversary in practice in Oto. Mrs. Rinker passed away November 11th of last year. Following her death Dr. Rinker, for the most part, remained at Oto.

He fell at his home on September 8, injuring his shoulder. He was taken to a Sioux City hospital where he passed away Tuesday, September 16, 1958

Dr. and Mrs. Rinker were the parents of three children, Dr. John Robert Rinker of Augusta, Georgia, who visited his father in the hospital following his accident; Mrs. Wayne E. Birchard (Vera) of Bloomington, Illinois, and Mrs. Olaf N. Begtrup (Margaret) of Rockford, Illinois, both of whom were here for the services. Other survivors include two sisters, Miss Leola Rinker of Centerville, Iowa, and Mrs. Noah V. Watts (Nellie) of Oklahoma, who also attended the last rites; seven grandchildren, Geraldine, George, Carolyn and Franklin Rinker of Augusta, Georgia, and Robert, Marilyn and Sylvia Begtrup of Rockford, Illinois.

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The editor greatly appreciates the contribution to The Jerome Journal of the above articles and pictures by Geraldine Rinker of Augusta, Georgia.