This project is a collaboration among NHS 1968 graduates Marilyn Eckman Rittel, Ron Rittel and Steve
Kline. Our extraordinary class graduated in an extraordinary year. To the memory of those with whom we
spent some of our formative years, we dedicate our work.
Online formatting provided by
Omaha, Nebraska | Clive, Iowa
www.We-Raise-Money.com
More information available at Claradell Shedd’s
Remembering NHS Site
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Abbey, Douglas Wayne 4/25/2007 Aurora, Colorado. Douglas Wayne Abbey, 57, formerly of
Des Moines, died April 25th. Douglas was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Edwina;
his wife Kristin, and son Jason all of Des Moines. He is survived by his sister Jacqueline (Stephen)
Hammond of Memphis, TN. No services are planned. Burial will be by cremation. The Des
Moines Register, April 27, 2007.
Amos, Robert Earl 7/17/2012 Tempe, Arizona formerly of Des Moines, Iowa. Robert Earl Amos,
62 years old, of Tempe, AZ, died Tuesday July 17, 2012 at Friendly Village Hospice in Tempe, AZ.
He was born April 20, 1950 to Max and Marjorie Amos(Inman). Bob grew up in the Highland
Park area of Des Moines and attended North High School where he played baseball. Bob served
in the US Army in Korea following his graduation. Upon discharge he lived in Shipley and Nevada,
IA and also in Joplin MO. Bob spent the majority of his adult life in the state of Arizona. He was
self- employed in the floor covering business and later in life worked on the ASU campus. He
was a huge Arizona State Sun Devil fan. Bob is survived by his step-father Jim Taylor of Story
City, IA, his daughter Kelly Amos of Tempe AZ, his son and daughter in law Josh and Cynthia
Amos of San Diego, CA, brother Craig Amos of Ames, IA and sister Ann Brodie (Boyd) of Roland,
IA. He is also survived by many cousins and numerous nieces and nephews. He was proceeded
in death by his parents. According to Bobs wishes he was cremated and a memorial celebration
of life service will be held at a later date. Bob never met a stranger he wouldn't help. He was a loyal friend, caring son and
brother, and a devoted father. Here's to the sun on your back, the wind in your hair, and a big smile on your face until we
meet again. Published in Des Moines Register on July 24, 2012.
Beattie, Sharon Anne Matthias 1/15/2001 Matthias, Sharon Anne, died with her family at her
side at her home in Tucson on January 15, 2001. She was born Sharon Anne Beattie on June 28,
1950 in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Rosella Warner of Colorado Springs, Colorado and
of Harry Beattie of Rockford, Illinois. Sharon Matthias was a devoted wife and loving mother
whose caring spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. She is mourned by her parents, her
husband, Allan Matthias; her daughters, Kathryn and Anne Matthias; her sisters, Cynthia
Franklin of Colorado Springs, Marjorie Alexander of Boulder, Colorado and Janet Beattie of
Newton Highlands, Massachusetts; and extended family, Mary Ellen Beattie of Rockford,
Charles, Nathan and Hannah Franklin of Colorado Springs, Gaylord Torrence of Des Moines,
Mira Elinchev of Colorado Springs, Karen and Jessica Jasper of Newton Highlands, Martin,
Sandra, Kim, Jeff and Candace Matthias of Readlyn, Iowa, William, Barbara, Kyle, and Neil Matthias of Denver, Iowa,
Warren, Elaine, and Bryan Matthias and Angie Espenson all of Tucson. Sharon Matthias loved life and loved learning, In
1972, she graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Drake University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry, and in the same
year she married Allan. At Drake, she was a member of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority. In 1975, she earned her Masters in
Library Science degree from the University of Michigan. The Matthias’ lived in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Ames, Iowa, and
Providence, Utah before moving to Tucson in 1981. Sharon Matthias was employed at university libraries in Ann Arbor
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
and in Ames, prior to the births of her daughters in 1979 and 1983. Most recently she worked as a librarian at the Catalina
Foothills High School. A 20- year member of Faith Lutheran Church in Tucson, she served for several years on the Altar
Guild and was a Sunday school teacher. The family of Sharon Matthias sincerely thanks the many people who helped care
for Sharon’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs during her illness. A memorial service, led by Pastors Haase and Dill,
to remember Sharon’s life is planned for 1:30 p.m. on February 3 at Faith Lutheran Church, 3925 E. 5th St. In lieu of flowers,
contributions may be given in her memory to the Arizona Cancer Center-UAF, 1515 N. Campbell Ave., Room 1978, Tucson,
AZ 85724-5013 or to the Carondelet Hospice Services, 1802 W. St. Mary’s Rd., Tucson, AZ 85745. Tucson Citizen Morgue,
Part 2 (1993 – 2001) for Thursday January 18, 2001.
Bowlby, Tammy Louise Van Zuillen 9/9/1979 Private services will be today in Colorado Springs,
Colo., for Tammy Van Zuillen, 29, of Colorado Springs, a former Des Moines resident who died
in a Colorado Springs hospital Sunday of complications from Hodgkin’s disease. The body will
be cremated. Mrs. Van Zuillen was born in Des Moines and lived here until moving to Colorado
Springs about nine years ago. She had attended Drake University and the Broadlawns Hospital
nursing school. Survivors include her husband, Greg, her father, Jack Bowlby of Des Moines; a
sister, Julie Miller of London, England; a brother Michael Bowlby of Rock Valley; and her
grandmother Maggie Voshell of Des Moines. The Des Moines Register, 09/12/1979, page 3-B.
Braklow, James Forrest 7/5/2011 Urbandale. James Forrest Braklow, 60, passed away on
Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at his home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, July 11,
2011 at Iles Funeral Homes - Westover Chapel. Burial will be at Bondurant Cemetery,
Bondurant, IA. His family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home. Jim
was born the son of William and Carole Braklow on November 13, 1950 in Des Moines. He
graduated from North High School and had lived in the Des Moines area all his life. Jim owned
Braklow Auto Body for a number of years and later worked for Mid America Company as a claims
specialist. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed spending time at his family's cabin in Cross
Lake, MN and riding his Harley. Jim was a charter member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church. Jim
is survived by his brother, John (Chris) Braklow of Overland Park, KS; his first wife, Josephine
Spears of Des Moines; aunt, Gladys Long of Des Moines; nephew, Jerry; nieces, Jana and Jamie all of Overland Park, KS
and numerous cousins in the Des Moines area. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Dorothy Schuler
Braklow. His family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors and staff at the University of Iowa and his personal
transplant coordinator, Jana Beaver for their care and support throughout his illness. Memorials may be directed to
University of Iowa Lung Transplant Program, 200 Hawkins Drive SE 531GH, Iowa City, IA 52242 or St. Stephen Lutheran
Church, 3510 - 72nd St. Urbandale, IA 50322. Published in Des Moines Register on July 9, 2011.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Buhrmaster, Lila Kay 1/5/1985 Services for Lila K. Buhrmaster, 34, of 3919 Fourteenth St., who
died of kidney failure Saturday at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday
at Westover Funeral Home. Burial will be in Resthaven Cemetery. Miss Buhrmaster was a
lifelong resident of Des Moines and was a former employee of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of
Iowa. Survivors include her parents, Robert and Sylvia Buhrmaster of Des Moines; and two
sisters, Sherry Smith of Des Moines and Beverly Moorehead of Carpentersville, Ill. Friends may
call today at the funeral home, where a prayer service will be at 7 p.m. today. The Des Moines
Register, Metro, Page 5, Column 2, January 8, 1985.
Clyce, Carl Stanley 3/12/1998 Carl Clyce passed away March 12, 1998 from complications of
kidney disease at Mercy Hospital Medical Center in Des Moines, IA. He was disabled at the time
of his death. Estes-Nichols Chapel in Des Moines handled the arrangements. Information
gathered from his Certificate of Death, Polk County, State of Iowa. No obituary was published
in the Des Moines Register.
Collins, Linda Ann Douglas 11/3/2011 Two Obits - (1) Linda was born on March 27, 1950 and
passed away on Thursday, November 3, 2011. Linda was a resident of Mesa, Arizona at the time
of her passing. She is survived by her husband Jerry. A memorial gathering will be held from 4-
7PM, Wednesday, November 9, 2011, Hansen Desert Hills Chapel, 6500 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale.
Memorial preferred to: Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue, P.O. Box 10575, Glendale, AZ, 85318
or Susan G. Komen for the Cure Phoenix Affiliate, www.komenphoenix. org. From
www.tributes.com. (2) Linda A. Douglas, March 27, 1950-November 3, 2011. Linda died
peacefully after living 15+ years with stage 4 breast cancer. Linda will be missed beyond words
by her husband, Jerry; faithful Labrador, Bear; children, Jennifer (Sam) Pratt, Kristopher (Tami)
Crow; Bonus children Matt (Amy) Douglas, Brady Douglas, Lindsey (Jesse) Aranki; grandchildren,
Dean Crow, Erika Douglas, Layla Aranki, soon to be baby boy Pratt and soon to be baby Douglas
(Matt and Amy); mother, Muriel Collins; sisters, Diana (Steve Krum) Miller, Marcia (Tom) McCormick, extended family,
friends, and co-workers. Heartfelt appreciation and thanks to Linda's many caregivers and medical team(s) with whom
she partnered to sustain her life allowing her to enjoy her relationships, passions, and just plain 'ole' life these past 15
years. Memorial preferred to: Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue, P.O. Box 10575, Glendale, AZ, 85318 or Susan G. Komen
for the Cure - Phoenix Affiliate, www.komenphoenix. org. A memorial gathering will be held from 4-7PM, Wednesday,
November 9, 2011, Hansen Desert Hills Chapel, 6500 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale. Please visit www.hansenmortuary.com to
leave online condolences. Obituary from www.legacy.com for azcentral.com
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Comito, Linda Marie 7/20/2014 Urbandale. Linda Marie Comito, 65, our sweet loving sister,
passed from this life on Sunday, July 20, 2014, surrounded by her family. Visitation will be held
from 5-8 p.m. with a 5:30 p.m. Rosary on Wednesday, July 23, at Iles Westover Chapel. A Funeral
Service will be held on Thursday, July 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Iles Westover Chapel with burial
following at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines, Iowa. Linda was born on February 2, 1949, in
Des Moines, Iowa to Anthony and Grace (Morano) Comito. She attended All Saints School and
graduated from North High School in 1968. Linda retired from a long-term care facility in 1996
and served as a volunteer at Willis Adult Daycare Center until 2009. She loved bingo at the Elks
Club and developed a number of strong friendships there. She loved going to the casino and
listening to country music. She enjoyed playing organized board and card games with her family
and friends. Those left behind to cherish her memory are brothers, Michael (Tony) Comito of
Albuquerque, NM, Joe Comito of Tacoma, WA; sisters, Mary (Maria) Comito of Urbandale; Regina Comito of Chicago, IL;
niece, Jade (Chris) Comito-Stocks and many relatives. She is preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Grace; boyfriend,
Wayne Milburn; and little dog companion, Ziggy. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Arc, an
organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or to the family. Online condolences may be
shared at www.IlesCares.com
Critchfield, Susan Katherine Thompson 5/4/2012 Des Moines. Susan K. Thompson, 63, passed
away Friday, May 4, 2012, at the Iowa Health Taylor House, after a courageous battle with
diabetes. Susan was born March 4, 1949, in Des Moines to Cecelia and Thaddeus Critchfield.
Susan lived in the Des Moines area for most of her life. She worked at both Walgreens and the
Des Moines Airport for a number of years. She loved to collect stuffed animals. One of her
favorite things was to go out with her husband and her mother to dinner. Sue also loved
Dachshunds and her cat Sadie. She was a longtime member of Christ the King Catholic Church.
Susan is survived by her husband, David; her sister, Cleo Dawson; nieces, Leann Dawson, Kelly
Nolan and Lori Dawson-Weeks; her nephew, Patrick Kearney; and a dear friend Dean Dawson.
Susan will be missed by all who loved her. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sandra
Kearney. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th
Street. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League in
loving memory of Susan. Published in Des Moines Register on May 8, 2012
Fisher, Harold Eugene 1/15/2013 Beardstown, IL. Dr. Harold E. Fisher, D.C., 62 of Beardstown,
IL, died Tues. Jan. 15, 2013 at his home. He was born June 10, 1950 in Des Moines, IA the son
of Walter and Dorothy Roberts Fisher. He married Paula Gier on September 2, 1972 at Jester
Park in Granger, IA. Surviving is his wife Paula Fisher of Beardstown, IL; two children Brent Fisher
of Milan, IL and Carrie Mefford of Franklin, IN: one grandson Christian Mefford; and two
brothers Edward Fisher of Texas and Chuck (wife Becki) Fisher of Ankeny, IA. He was preceded
in death by his parents. Dr. Fisher graduated from North High School in Des Moines, IA and then
served in the US Army. In 1992 he graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic, moved to
Beardstown and opened Beardstown Chiropractic Clinic. He was a member of BPO Elks,
Beardstown Kiwanis, Beardstown Main Street, Beardstown United Way, and Heritage
Preservation Foundation. Dr. Fisher was totally devoted to serving the community of
Beardstown and was especially passionate about the restoration of the Beardstown Opera House. A Celebration of Life
reception will be held from 2 until 4 PM Sat,, Jan. 19, 2013, at the Beardstown Opera House where the family will meet
with friends. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to Beardstown Opera House. Sager Funeral Home
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at www.airsman-hires.com. Published in Des
Moines Register on January 17, 2013
Flanigan, Daryl 1/24/2007 Daryl Flanigan went home to be with the Lord Wednesday January 24, 2007. Funeral services
will be held 1 p.m. January 29, 2007 at Corinthian Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Lee Zachery Maxey officiating. There will be
no public viewing after the eulogy. Survivors include his wife, Pamela Miles-Flanigan, daughter, Dara Flanigan, brothers
Bennie and Charles Flanigan, sister, Ila Flanigan, two grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation at
the funeral home will be from 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. The Des Moines Register, January
27, 2007, Metro section, page 7, column 5.
Friedel, Rebecca Louise 4/10/1975 Services for Rebecca L. Friedel, 25, of 1442 Twenty-eighth
St., who died Thursday at Iowa Lutheran Hospital of complications following surgery, will be at
1:30 p.m. Monday at the Caldwell- Brien-Robbins Funeral Home, with burial at Sunset Memorial
Gardens Cemetery. A native of Des Moines, Miss Friedel was a graduate of North High School
and Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny. She was employed as a child care worker.
Survivors include her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Friedel of Des Moines; three brothers,
Douglas, Daniel and David, at home; a sister, Diane at home; her maternal grandparents, Dr.
and Mrs. R.E. Warner of Des Moines, and her paternal grandmother, Mrs. Agnes Friedel of Des
Moines. The Des Moines Register, section A, page 21, column 4, 04/13/1975.
Gaudineer, Susanne Kay Minks 10/1/1979 Services for Susanne Kay Minks, 29, of 3822 E. Eighth
St., who died Monday at Mercy Hospital Medical Center, will be at 3 p.m. today at Hamilton’s
Funeral Home on Lyon Street. Burial will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Mrs. Minks died of
complications of a 1976 automobile accident in Oklahoma City. She had been in a coma since
then and had been hospitalized in Oklahoma City and at Hill Haven Medicenter here. Mrs.
Minks was a Des Moines native. She had lived in Oklahoma City only three months at the time
of the accident. She had worked at the Iowa-Des Moines National Bank and later was a
volunteer worker at the Prescribed Activity Center here. She attended the University of
Northern Iowa and was a member of First Federated Church. Survivors include a daughter
Marne Lea of Oklahoma City; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Gaudineer of Des Moines; two
brothers, James Gaudineer of Chicago, Ill., and Tim Gaudineer of Minneapolis, Minn; her
paternal grandmother, Thelma Gaudineer of Boone, and her maternal grandmother, Helen
Brewer of Des Moines. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be made to the Prescribed Activity Center at
3223 University Ave. Published in Des Moines Register, October 3, 1970, page 5- B.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Giefer, Ann Marie Gourd 6/7/2008 Arlington, TX. Ann Marie Gourd died unexpectedly at the
age of 59 on Saturday, June 7, 2008, at Arlington Memorial Hospital in Arlington, Texas.
Visitation will be held on Sunday June 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home. Funeral
mass will be held on Monday, June 30 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Ambrose Cathedral. Ann was born on
October 1, 1948 in Slayton, Minnesota to Robert and Adeline (Hagen) Giefer. While in Des
Moines, Iowa she attended Smouse Elementary School, was a member of St. Ambrose Church,
and graduated with the Class of 1968 from North High School. Ann earned her Bachelor of Arts
degree from Graceland College and a Master of Arts degree from Drake University. Ann was
united in marriage with John Gourd on January 5, 1976 and moved to Arlington, TX soon after.
While in Texas, Ann gave herself to her community and received many awards for her
achievements. Ann attended St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church. Throughout her life, Ann truly
enjoyed music, especially Bobby Rydell and The Beatles. She was a Star Trek, Pac Man and Texas
Rangers enthusiast. She loved dogs and was even known to say, “Anything on four legs loves me”. Ann committed her
life to education and volunteered her time teaching math to children. Ann had a heart the size of Texas and accomplished
many things despite her physical restrictions. With undaunted perseverance, Ann rose above her circumstances and
shared her spirit and courage with others. Preceding her in death are her parents, Robert and Adeline (Hagen) Giefer; her
sister, Mary, who died at birth; and her beloved dogs Shadow and Tina. Ann is survived and lovingly remembered by her
sister, Karla Hoover, sister Kathy Agee, brother Gary Giefer, all of Des Moines, Iowa; nine nieces and nephews; ex-husband,
John Gourd of Kiowa, Oklahoma; and many wonderful friends and family. Ann will be greatly missed by all who knew and
loved her. Merle Hay Funeral Home. The Des Moines Register, June 29, 2008, page 11B.
Green, Joyce Linda 4/5/1997 Joyce Linda Green, 49, of 1930 Franklin Ave. died of a heart attack
Saturday at Broadlawns Medical Center. Services will be a 1 p.m. Saturday at East University
Church of God in Christ, of which she was a member. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery. Miss
Green was born in Iowa City and lived in Des Moines 49 years, retiring from the housekeeping
department at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. She was a member of her church’s state and local usher
boards, and she also was a church hospitality lady. Surviving are her parents, Pauline and Elehue
Green of Des Moines; seven brothers, James, Eugene, Sylvester and Daniel, all of Des Moines,
Tyrone of Mesa, Ariz., Timothy of Washington, Ia., and Noble of Woodward; and a sister, Sharon
Green of Des Moines. A vigil service will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday at the church.
Estes & Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. The Des Moines Register, April 9, 1997,
Page 7M.
Hall, Diane Louise Wilkins 9/2/1992 Diane L. Wilkins, 42, of 2615 Payne Road died Sept. 2 at
Desert Samaritan Hospital in Mesa, Ariz., of a heart attack and complications of diabetes.
Memorial services will be at 7 p.m. Thursday at Hamilton’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. Burial
of the cremains will be at a later date in Vandalia Cemetery near Runnells. Mrs. Wilkins lived in
Des Moines all her life and had been a medical assistant. She is survived by her husband, David;
a daughter, Katie Kochheiser of Ames; her parents, Robert and Louise Hall of Des Moines; and
a brother, Donald Hall of Altoona. Memorial contributions may be made to the American
Diabetes Association. The Des Moines Register, 09/09/1992, Metro section, page 5, column 1.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Hall, Robert William 6/5/2005 Robert William Hall was born February 3, 1950. He fought a
brave battle with cancer that ended on June 5, 2005. He passed peacefully at home surrounded
by the love of his family and friends. Bob was born in Des Moines, Iowa, to Ben and Lois Hall.
He was the fourth of five children. Bob graduated from North High School (Des Moines, IA),
John Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD), and the University of Missouri (Columbia, MO). He
worked for over thirty years at the Veterans Administration Hospitals in Missouri, Illinois, Iowa,
and Arizona as a Clinical Psychologist. Bob is survived by his wife of 33 years, Dorothy, and his
two daughters, Elizabeth and Melissa. Family and friends are contributing to the Sabino Canyon
Trail Improvement Fund in his name. He was an avid hiker. Bob will be deeply missed by all
that knew him. Obituary provided by Dorothy Hall.
Hall, Russell Gary 7/2/2010 Russ Hall passed away on July 2, 2010 from cardiopulmonary arrest
at Sutter General Hospital in Sacramento, CA. He was never married and was a truck driver for
a tire sales company at the time of his death. Simple Traditions Funeral Home in Sacramento
handled the arrangements. Information gathered from his Certificate of death, Sacramento
County, State of California. No obituary was published in any Sacramento or Des Moines
newspapers.
Hougham, Dale Carl of Minnetonka, MN 9/19/2013. Beloved husband, father, brother and
friend. Age 62. Born October 12, 1950. Passed away peacefully on September 19, 2013,
surrounded by his family. Dale was born and raised in Des Moines, IA. He attended Iowa State
University and graduated with a degree in Engineering. He worked at Litton Microwave where
he met his wife Brenda. He continued his career proudly at Guidant, later Boston Scientific,
retiring in 2010. Dale was preceded in death by his mother, Eloise, father, Pryor, and brother,
John. He is survived by his loving family, wife of 34 years, Brenda (Wynia) Hougham; sons, Aaron
(Krysta), Brandon (Jennifer); daughter, Sarah; brother, Ron Hougham (Susan); mother-in-law,
Sadie Wynia; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Westmark, Barbara Boulware (Keith); brother- in-law, Dan
Wynia (Susan); and many nieces and nephews. Memorial service 2 PM TUESDAY, Wooddale
Church (Worship Center), 6630 Shady Oak Road, Eden Prairie, MN www.wooddale.org.
Visitation 1 hour prior. Memorials preferred. www.albinchapel.com Albin Chapel 952-914-
9410 Published in Star Tribune on September 22, 2013
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Hughes, Julie Kay 7/1/2002 Julie Hughes, 51, general counsel of the Illinois Educational Labor
Relations Board and a leader in the national labor relations community, died of complications
from cancer Monday, July 1, in the Hospice of the North Shore. Ms. Hughes was born in Des
Moines and graduated from Drake University in 1972, where she was editor of the yearbook.
She taught high school journalism in Council Bluffs, Iowa, while studying for her master's degree
in education at night. She received a degree and married one of her professors, William Pink.
The couple moved to Omaha, where she attended Creighton University College of Law. After
graduating in 1978, she took a position with the National Labor Relations Board in Kansas City
before transferring to the Chicago office in 1986. Three years later, she became chief attorney
at the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board. "When she became general counsel, she had
inherited a backlog of cases that went back to the opening days of the agency's operations in
1984," said Gerald Berendt, outgoing chairman of the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board. "She organized us and
planned out a strategy that resulted in the clearing of our docket within one year." She was president of the Association
of Labor Relations Agencies, an organization of North American agencies that work to prevent labor disputes, and her
skills were recognized far beyond Illinois, said Bob Anderson, a New Jersey attorney who will succeed Ms. Hughes. She
served as an adjunct professor at DePaul University College of Law and was a 12-year board member and a president of
the Evanston Township High School Booster Club. Ms. Hughes also was the former chairman of the Education Law Section
Council of the Illinois State Bar Association and was a member of the advisory board for the annual Public Sector Labor
Law Conference. But it was her ability to connect with people that was perhaps her most shining achievement, said her
sister, Jan. "She had an extraordinary ability to make and maintain friendships. Even during her worst days, she put the
needs of others before her own," Jan Hughes said. During her illness, her sister said, friends and neighbors organized to
bring dinners to Ms. Hughes' home in Evanston after she started chemotherapy in November. Other survivors include two
daughters, Allison and Amanda Pink; and a son, Andrew Pink. A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Trinity
United Methodist Church, 1024 Lake Ave, Wilmette. Chicago Tribune News, July 04, 2002
Jackson, Richard Eugene 7/24/1999 Princeton, MO. Richard Eugene Jackson, 49, of Princeton,
MO., died of a heart attack Saturday at home. The body was cremated, and memorial services
will be at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Hamilton’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. Mr. Jackson was
born in Knoxville and had lived in Des Moines most of his life. He moved to Princeton two years
ago. He worked for G and H Trucking of Greenfield and was an Army veteran. Among survivors
are two daughters, Lora Reynolds of Monmouth, Ill., and Amanda Jackson of Des Moines; a
brother, John of Princeton; two sisters, Susan Thomas of Florida and Charlene Jackson of
Princeton; and two grandchildren. The Des Moines Register, 07/27/1999, Metro section, page
5, column 2.
Johnson, Theodore Grant Jr. "TG" 11/8/2008 Des Moines. TG Johnson Jr., 58 passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008.
TG was born on May 22, 1950. Preceded in death by his father, Theodore Sr.; his mother, Betty Bailey and son, Adam. TG
is survived by his son, Travis; daughter, Megan; sisters, Sue Harvey and Deb Sly and brother, Denny. TG served in the
United States Marines and was proud to be a Vietnam War Veteran. Funeral Services will be 12 p.m., Tuesday, November
11, 2008 at Hamilton’s near Highland memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave. The Des Moines Register, November 10, 2008,
Page 5-B.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Johnson, Vicki Rae Hanson 3/21/2012 Vikki Rae Hanson, 61, passed away on Wednesday,
March 21, 2012 at her home. Vikki was born on July 10, 1950 to Raymond and Twila (Hanson)
Johnson in Des Moines. Vikki graduated from North High School in 1968. Most recently she
worked for Bill Doran and Fleur Heights Care Center. If you knew Vikki, you loved her. She had
a joy of life and a light of love that shined in every life she touched. We will carry her forever in
our hearts. Vikki is survived by her daughter, Bobbi Hanson, of Minneapolis; grandson, Bobby
Hanson; mother, Twila Walkup of Norwalk; siblings, Ted (Janis) Johnson of Des Moines and Carol
(Jim) Crosby of Myrtle Beach, SC; special friends, Jack and Marilyn Burzacott of Altoona; and
aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father and her daughter,
Beverly. Funeral Services will be at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at Hamilton’s
Southtown Funeral home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on
Monday at the funeral home. www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Jurgens, Kenneth David 1/21/2012 Des Moines. Kenneth David Jurgens was born on October
25, 1950 in Des Moines, Iowa, where he lived his entire life. Ken grew up in the Highland and
Oak Park neighborhoods, attending Oak Park Elementary, Harding Junior High and North High
schools, graduating in 1968. Ken is survived by his father, Norman C. Jurgens, his brother,
Richard N. Jurgens (wife Carol), and a sister, Kristine M. Jurgens-Wong (husband Edwin and son
Victor). He is also survived by his niece Katherine L. Jurgens-Leon (husband Luis, son Luca and
daughter Ruby), and his nephew Michael P. Jurgens (wife Kerry, sons Ben and Sam). He was
preceded in death by his mother, Grace R. Jurgens, and a sister, Cynthia A. Jurgens. A private
family service is planned. Published in Des Moines Register on January 25, 2012
Kelderman, Gloria Jean Clater 7/31/2011 Gloria J. Clater, 60, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011
at her home. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at the Altoona
Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, Iowa. Visitation will be held
two hours prior to the service. Born October 30, 1950, Gloria Jean Clater was the daughter of
William and Gertrude (Braafhart) Kelderman. She grew up in Des Moines and graduated from
North High School in 1968. Gloria attended cosmetology school and worked as a hair dresser
for over 30 years. On December 9, 1977 she was united in marriage to James Clater, to this
union one daughter was born, Echo. Gloria enjoyed camping and watching sports, but most of
all loved spending time with her family. Survivors include her husband, Jim; daughter, Echo;
grandchildren, Elijah, Elivia, and Ethan; brothers, Ronald and Dennis Kelderman; sisters, Vicky
Roby and Linda Aguiniga; and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family. She was
preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Jack Kelderman. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the
family. www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
LeCroy, Gary Richard 9/22/2003 La Quinta, CA. Gary R. LeCroy, 53, died September 22, 2003 in
La Quinta, CA. Memorial services will be 4 p.m. Friday at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in
Palm Desert, CA. Gary was a graduate of North High School in Des Moines and is survived by his
mother, Jeanette LeCroy and sister, Jan LeCroy, both of Des Moines and nephew, John Henson.
The Des Moines Register, September 24, 2003, Metro section, page 6, column 5.
LeCroy, Michael David 3/28/1988 Michael LeCroy, 38, of 1820 Ninth St. died of a heart attack
Monday at his parents’ home. Services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Hamilton’s Funeral Home,
with burial in Glendale Cemetery. Mr. LeCroy was a lifelong Des Moines resident, formerly
employed as quality control manager of Cadco Feeds. He was a member of the El Forastero
Motorcycle Club. Surviving are his wife, Terry; a son, Matthew David, and two daughters, Claire
Beth LeCroy and Mackenzie Mae LeCroy, all of Newton; two stepdaughters, Leslea Sue Rietz
and Michelle Lee Rietz, a stepson, John Edwin Rietz, his parents, John and Jacqueline LeCroy,
and a sister, Nancy Jo LeCroy, all of Des Moines; and his grandmother, Cordia LeCroy of San
Jose, Calif. Friends may call after 4 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorial contributions
may be made to the American Heart Association. Published in Des Moines Register, March 30,
1988, Page 7M.
Lewis, David Michael 12/14/2007 Baltimore, MD. Mr. David M. Lewis, age 57, departed this
life on December 14, 2007 in Howard County, MD. David, a former Des Moines resident was
the son of Woodrow and Dorothy Lewis of Des Moines. David was extremely proud of his home
town, community and the schools which he attended: Nash Elementary, Washington Irving Jr.
High, and North High school. David was involved in choir, track, and football. He was a charter
member of Jack and Jill of America Club. David received his BA degree in Journalism from Drake
University and a Master of Science and Master in Business Administration from John Hopkins
University. His love of photography led him to employment with the Des Moines Register,
Chicago Tribune, and Associated Press. David worked for the Baltimore Sun for over twenty-six
years, where he was Associate Director of Photography. He will be remembered by many
journalism students whom he mentored. David is survived by his parents, Woodrow and
Dorothy Lewis of Des Moines, Iowa; his brother, Charles W. (Karen) Lewis of Fountain Hills, Arizona; a niece, Dominique
(David) Ponce; and a great nephew, Elijah Lewis Ponce of Laguna Hills, California. He was preceded in death by his sister,
Deborah L. Lewis. He will be sorely missed by a host of family and friends. A celebration of his life will be scheduled both
in Des Moines and Baltimore in January, 2008. Memorial contributions may be made to the Deborah L. Lewis foundation
at the Forest Avenue Library in Des Moines, Iowa. Henderson’s Highland Park [Funeral Home] 3500 Sixth Avenue. The
Des Moines Register, December 20, 2007, page 11-B.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Lowe, Wayne Jr. 1/11/1997 Wayne Lowe Jr., 46, of South Sioux City, died unexpectedly
Saturday, Jan 11, 1997, at his residence in Pass Christian, Miss. Services will be 10:30 a.m.
Friday at St. Michael’s Catholic church in South Sioux City with the Rev. Charles Uhlik
officiating. Visitation, with the family, will be from 4 to 9 p.m. today at the church with a wake
service at 7 p.m. The body will be cremated following the service. Becker-Hunt Funeral Home
of South Sioux City is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Lowe was born Jan. 31, 1950, in Des
Moines, the son of Wayne and Lucille R. (Wood) Lowe, Sr. He graduated from North High
School in Des Moines in 1968. He attended Grandview College for two years and graduated
from Bemidji State University with a degree in business administration. He married Rita J.
Hovis April, 30, 1977, in Cloquet, Minn. He was employed at Finance America, Midwest Federal
in Minneapolis and St. Paul, and the Convoy Co. In October 1985, he went to work as safety
director and terminal director for Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc. The family had lived in South Sioux City for the last five
years and was in the process of moving to Mississippi where Mr. Lowe was to be the terminal director for the Hirschbach
Motor Lines’ office there. He was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in South Sioux City. He was a board member
of the Cardinal Little League and was a coach. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Ryan and Randy, and a daughter, Jenna,
all at home; his mother and stepfather, Lucille R. and Paul Fegley Sr. of West Des Moines; a brother and his wife, Paul and
Margo Fegley Jr. of Bloomington, Ill.; a sister and her husband, Paulette and Larry Standing of Norwalk, Iowa, and an aunt,
Virginia Martin, of Des Moines. He was preceded in death by his father. Newspaper clipping found on Ancestry.com.
Mardis, Catherine Elizabeth Groffy 9/19/2012 Services were held Saturday for Catherine
Elizabeth Mardis Groffy of Duncanville, Texas at the Mesquite Community of Christ Church,
Mesquite, Texas. Cathie was born in Des Moines, Iowa the 21st of November 1949 to Harry
Edward Mardis (1922-2000) and Mary Isabel O'Connell (1928- 2006). She graduated from North
High School in Des Moines in 1968 and went on to attend Central Missouri State University.
Cathie had struggled with health issues for many years, and this past month, her energy and will
surrendered as she entered hospice at Baylor Hospital in Dallas, Texas where her sister Evelyn,
sister-in-law Beverly and her former husband, Roger Groffy stayed by her side. The end to her
suffering came on the 19th of September, 2012. Brother Howard Edward Mardis (1952-2005)
and great nephew Justin Andrew Mardis (2004-2004) as well as her parents, predeceased her.
Surviving are brother David Mardis of Hannibal, Missouri, sister Evelyn Mardis and sister-in-law
Beverly Mardis of Mesquite, Texas, and former husband Roger Groffy of Garland, Texas. In
addition, Cathie's niece and 4 nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews, cousins and 'sisters of the soul' Beverly
Proudfit Lilly and Cheri Proudfit LaFavor are left to mourn her passing. Her beautiful smile and wicked sense of humor
will never be forgotten. She had the voice of an angel, which illness had silenced. Now she is singing in the heavenly choir.
Cathie's wish was to be cremated. It is her family's hope to scatter her ashes in Nevada where she spent the happiest
days of her life. Rest in peace, Cathie. The family asks that donations be made to one of the following charities in Cathie's
memory: American Heart Association, American Lung Association, or The Alzheimer's Association. From Musings of
MidwestAncesTree website 09/23/2012.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Martindale, Cynthia Lee Thompson, 35, of 1312 E. Twenty-ninth St., died of cancer Saturday at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Peace Lutheran Church with burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Thompson was born in Des Moines and lived here all of her life. She was an employee at Iowa Methodist Medical Center and a member of Peace Lutheran Church. Survivors include her husband, David; a daughter, Sarah Nadine Thompson at home; her parents, Lyle and Lucille Martindale of Des Moines; and her grandmother, Alma Budrevich of Des Moines. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be made to the Peace Lutheran Church or the oncology floor at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. Friends may call today until 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Des Moines Register, 01/23/1984, Today Section, Page 4.
McCrea, Mary Ann Price 7/31/1988 Mary Ann “Annie” Price, 37, of 2706 S.W. Seventh St. died
of cancer Sunday at Mercy Hospital Medical Center. Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at
St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery. Mrs. Price, a lifelong
resident of Des Moines, had been a homemaker and was a member of the Catholic Church. She
is survived by her husband, Donald; two sons, James and Jeffrey, and two daughters, Julie Price
and Jean Price, all at home; her parents, Mary and George McCrea Jr. of Des Moines; three
brothers, George McCrea III of Ankeny, Victor McCrea of Des Moines and David McCrea of
Altoona; and three sisters, Nancy Reed and Jean McCrea, both of Des Moines, and Susan
Hollobaugh of Missouri City, Texas. Friends may call after 11 a.m. today at Hamilton’s Funeral
Home, where a wake service will be at 7 p.m. The Des Moines Register, August 2, 1988, Metro
section, page 5, column 2.
McKelvey, Kerry Lee 11/3/2008 Two Obits (1) Stuart, IA. Kerry L. McKelvey, 58, died on
Monday. He will be missed by his loving wife, Pam; seven children; eleven grandchildren; two
brothers. No services planned. Memorials may be sent to the family. Brooks Funeral Care. The
Des Moines Register, November 6, 2008, Page 9-B. (2) Kerry L. McKelvey, 58, died on November
3, 2008. Kerry enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He owned Kerry's
Furniture Restoring. Kerry will be missed by his loving wife of 16 years, Pam; children, Jesse,
Chris (Nilka), Tim, Ester (Brett), Leandra, Janell (Brian) and Duston (Jacki); 11 grandchildren,
Alyssa, Janessa, Maribel, Brady, Brody, Wesley, Lexi, Riley, Cecilla, Malyki, and Miss Margaret;
brothers, Bob and Gene. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Brandon. Memorials may
be sent to his family. Tributes.com.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Miles, Dean Martin 6/29/1994 Two Obits – (1) Dean M. Miles, 43, of Warner Robins, Ga., died
of a heart attack there Wednesday. Services will be at 2 p.m. today at Chapel of Christopher-
Smith Funeral Home in Warner Robins, Ga., with burial at Parkway Memorial Gardens
Cemetery. A memorial service will be held in Des Moines at a later date. Mr. Miles was born in
Des Moines and moved away from the area 26 years ago. The Des Moines Register, July 2, 1994,
Page 5M. (2) Dean M. Miles, 43, of Warner Robins, GA., died there June 29. The cause of death
is unknown, pending a medical examiner’s report. Services were held Saturday at Christopher-
Smith Funeral Home in Warner Robins, Ga. Burial with military honors was a Parkway Memorial
Gardens Cemetery. A memorial service will be held in Des Moines at a later date. Mr. Miles was
born in Des Moines and had lived in Georgia for about 10 years. He was retired from the Air
Force and was currently employed by the U.S. Postal Service. Survivors include his wife, Connie;
a son, Phillip of Warner Robins; two daughters, Dawn Miles and Jamyie Miles, both of Belleville,
Ill.; his mother and stepfather, Gus and Dorothy Bennett, and his father and stepmother, Bill and Jeannie Miles, all of Des
Moines; a brother, Dennis of Des Moines; four sisters, Deanna Summy, Debra Condreay, and Mary Bauer, all of Des
Moines, and Denise Smith of Rochester, Minn.; his grandmother, Ruth Bodensteiner of Des Moines; and a grandchild. The
Des Moines Register, July 6, 1994, Metro section, page 5, column 5.
Mintle, Michael Wayne 1/13/2013 son of Jim and Norma Mintle, was born on October 31, 1950,
in Des Moines, Iowa. Michael graduated from North High School in 1968. He served his country
in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam War. Michael was united in marriage with Diane Jean Luce
on April 15, 1972. He resided in Iowa until 1977 when he and his family moved to Minnesota.
Michael was employed by the local telephone company. He enjoyed singing, fishing, hunting,
golf, politics, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Michael passed away on
January 13, 2013, at the age of 62 in Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his grandparents,
Andrew and Helen Hoover, and Chick and Elsie Mintle; his mother, Norma Mintle; his brother,
Bruce Mintle; and niece, Victoria Gulick. Those left to honor Michael’s memory are his sons,
Matthew (Jodi) Mintle of Big Lake, MN, Scott (Susan) Mintle of Monticello, MN; his 3
grandchildren, Kaleb, Owen and Tyler; his father, James Mintle; three sisters, Linda (Rodney) Ferguson of Des Moines.
Helen (David) Cook of Ohio, and Joyce Norris of Des Moines, Iowa; his former wife, Diane of Minnesota; and his lifetime
of friends.
Moore, Marcia Lee 4/1/1978 Marcia L. Moore, 27, of 1370 Twenty-third St., was dead on arrival
Saturday at Iowa Lutheran Hospital after suffering an apparent heart attack. Hospital officials
said she was a kidney dialysis patient there. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Merle Hay
Funeral Home, with entombment in Merle Hay Mausoleum. Friends may call at the funeral
home from 3 until 9 p.m. today. A student at Drake University here, Miss Moore was born in
Des Moines and lived here 27 years. She was a member of the Methodist church. Survivors
include her parents, Mr. and Mrs. George J. Moore of Adel; one brother, Thomas A. of Des
Moines; and her paternal grandmother, Ida Moore of Marshalltown. Published in Des Moines
Register, Section A, Page 13, Column 3, April 2, 1978.
P a g e | 14
NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Mozee, Phillip Sylvester 4/12/2011 Des Moines. Phillip Mozee, 60, died Tuesday, April 12,
2011. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 16, at Faith Baptist Church (3415 3rd
Street) with burial to follow at Glendale Cemetery. Visitation will be today at the funeral home
from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Left to cherish Phillip's memory are his wife, Michelle; 15 children; six
sisters and one brother as well as host of other relatives and friends. Published in Des Moines
Register on April 15, 2011.
Mundel, Charles Ray 8/28/2005 Indianola. Charles “Chuck” R. Mundel, 56, passed away
Sunday, August 28, 2005 at Mercy hospice. Chuck is survived by three brothers, Gary, Dick and
Don; and one sister Judy. A memorial service will be held at a later time. The Des Moines
Register, Metro, page 5, column 1, August 30, 2005. Nucholls, Derek Thomas 1/22/2004 Derek
Nuckolls, 53, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2004 at home of cancer. The body has been
cremated, and a memorial service will be held on January 24, 2004 at 12:30 p.m. at Dunn's
Funeral Home. Burial of the cremains will take place after the service at Pine Hill Cemetery.
Derek was born August 25, 1950 in Des Moines. He attended Missouri Military Academy and
graduated from North High School. He was employed at UPS as a supervisor. Derek enjoyed
listening to music, visiting art galleries, and spending time with his family and friends. Derek is
survived by his wife, Christine; his daughters, Sarah (Chris) and Jill (Nate); two grandchildren,
Arianna and Destiny; two sisters, Florence Stansberry (Jerry) of Des Moines and Lana Bieghler of Clive; and two brothers,
David Norman (Char) of Dearborn, MI, and Glenn Nuckolls (Marilyn) of Altoona. He was preceded in death by his parents,
Glenn and Florence; and his sister, Nel. The family will be present two hours before the service to visit with family and
friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League. Find A Grave Memorial# 14577652.
Niffenegger Garwood, Patricia Mae 12/7/13 Patricia Mae Garwood, 63, passed away Saturday, December
7, 2013 at UnityPoint Health Taylor House. Patti was born November 15, 1950 in Des Moines, Iowa to
Ellsworth "Ray" and Esther Niffenegger. She graduated from North High School in 1968. Patti retired from
the Intelligence Division of the State Division of Criminal Investigation as a criminal analyst. Patti is survived
by her husband of 43 years, James; mother, Esther Niffenegger; son, Jeffery; grandsons, Justin and Ryan;
sister, Lila Kurth; and brother, Jerry Niffenegger. She was preceded in death by her father, Ellsworth. A
celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 12, 2013 at Bloomfield United Methodist
Church, 5930 Indianola Ave, Des Moines. Published in Des Moines Register from Dec. 10 to Dec. 12, 2013
P a g e | 15
NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Oliver, Gale Dwayne 10/4/1969 Services for Gale D. Oliver, 19, of 614 Seneca st., who died at
home Saturday, will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Arnold’s Highland Park Funeral Home. Burial will
be at Highland Memory Gardens. He was a 1968 graduate of North High School and is survived
by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Oliver; brothers, James, Norwalk, and Stephen, Des
Moines, and a sister, Donna, Des Moines. The Des Moines Register, Section L, Page 4, Column
5, October 5, 1969.
Olmstead, Ronald Doyle 3/6/1992 Ronald D. Olmstead, 43, of 1347 23rd St. died of a liver ailment Friday at Iowa
Methodist Medical Center. The body is being cremated and graveside memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday in Pine
Hill Cemetery. Mr. Olmstead, a lifelong Des Moines resident, formerly was a wholesale manager of Iowa Variety
Wholesale. A sister, Jessica Thorne of Des Moines, survives. Memorial contributions may be made to Door of Faith
Mission. Highland Park Funeral Home is handling arrangements. The Des Moines Register, March 7, 1992, Metro section,
page 7, column 2.
Payney, Wilma 7/16/1992 LuWilnur “Wilma” Payney, 42, of 1415 E. Washington Ave. died of a
stroke Thursday at Broadlawns Medical Center. Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Union
Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery. She was a homemaker and
lifelong Des Moines resident. Her survivors, all of Des Moines, include a daughter, Wanda
Mitchell; a son, John Mitchell; her mother and stepfather, Wanda and Vernal Gibson; two
sisters, Harlene Cooper and Sharon Miller-Pickens; and two grandchildren. Friends may call
after noon today at Estes & Son Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends at 7 P.m.
Sunday and a wake service will be 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday. The Des Moines Register, July 18, 1992,
Page 5M.
Pecina, Larry Oren 1/13/2006 Des Moines. Larry Pecina, 55, passed on Friday January 13, 2006
at Mercy Medical Center after a lengthy illness. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at
Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens with burial at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Larry was born July 25, 1950 in Des Moines. He was joined in marriage to Dianna Lee (Crowder)
Pecina in May of 1972. He was a Campus Monitor at East High School and had dedicated many
hours to the students of East High and North High Schools. He was an avid sports fan and
especially enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Larry is survived by his son, Mike Pecina;
daughter Michelle (John) Carter; son Matt (Andi) Pecina and their daughter Ryley Pecina; sister
Joan (Bernie) Hosman all of Des Moines, one niece; two nephews and many friends who he
leaves to cherish his memory. Larry was preceded in death by his loving wife Dianna and his
parents Joe and Louise Pecina. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the
funeral home. Memorial Contributions may be made to Larry's family to be donated to the East
P a g e | 16
NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
High and North High School Athletic Booster Clubs in his memory. The Des Moines Register, January 16, 2006, Metro
section, page 5, column 3.
Perry, Shirley Jean Snider 10/17/2011 Jeannie, 63, of Granger passed away on Monday October
17th.She was born on the Southside of Des Moines, to Frank and Maxine (Stumpf) Perry, on
Sept. 19th, 1948. She was a middle child of five kids. Her siblings are Fred (Cindy) Perry, of
Omaha, Sonia (Larry) Galetich, of Madrid, Sheryl (Dave) Mortimer of Des Moines, and Pam
(Don) Burkhead, of Johnston. Jeannie was a proud graduate of North High School, class of '68.
She was a hard worker in life. She had worked at several things, from working at Parr
manufacturer, to being in the daycare profession both in-home and at daycare centers. She
really enjoyed working with kids. However, she loved her very first job at the Iowa Jewish Senior
Life Center where she had worked for several years until she got married and started her own
family with John "Larry" Snider on Sept. 20th, 1975. Where they started to grow their family of
two girls, Angela (Shad) Kirton, of Grimes, and Sheila Snider, of Granger, along with becoming
a stepmother of four children, John "Clint" Snider, Christian "Chris" Snider, Tonya Snider, and
Traci (Charles) Schreckenbach all of Des Moines. Along, with becoming a, Grandmother of twelve, a Great-Grandma of
three. Jeannie had a big heart; she loved cooking, fishing, camping, and loved to travel. However, Holidays and Grandkids
seemed to be her big joy and passion in life. She loved to dress-up and decorate for Halloween and could never get enough
candy with the grandkids when taking them Trick or Treating and when it came to Christmas though the real kid came out
in her. She decorated so much you would have thought she was hosting Santa himself. Visitation will be held at the
Emmanuel United Methodist Church, in Granger, Iowa, on Friday Oct. 21st, at 10a.m. with an 11a.m. service to follow.
There will be a graveside service for a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.
Person, Robbie Gene 1/12/2005 Robbie Gene Person, 54, died January 12, 2005 at home after
a long battle with cancer. Services will be 1 p.m. Monday at Grandview Park Funeral Home.
Robbie was born in Medford, OR and lived most of his life in Des Moines. He was a Vietnam
Navy veteran and a member of the Masonic Lodge and Za Ga Zig Shrine. He was a lifelong
Minnesota Vikings fan and enjoyed fishing and hunting. Robbie is survived by his son, Bradley
Gene Person and daughter, Jeannine E. Person, both of Des Moines; and Papa’s two
grandchildren, Paige and Jack. Family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral
home. Memorials may be made to Mr. Person’s family. The Des Moines Register, January 15,
2005, Metro section, page 5, column 3.
Person, Ron Alan 3/1/1969 Ronnie Person Services Set. Services for Ronnie A. Person, 19, a Des
Moines airman stationed at Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., who was killed in a two-car collision
Saturday on Highway 51 near Wenona, Ill., will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday at Hamilton’s Funeral
home. Burial will be in Laurel hill Cemetery. Airman Person, a native of Medford, Ore., had lived
in Des Moines 10 years and was a 1968 North high School graduate. He was a member of the
Calvary Baptist Church and had been active in the Des Moines Community Playhouse. Surviving
are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Larson of White Bear Lake, Minn.; a brother, Robbie,
stationed with the Navy in San Diego, Calif.; his maternal grandmother, Mrs. James Wright of
Des Moines, and his paternal grandmother, Mrs. Mildred Person of Hull, Ill. The Des Moines
Tribune, March 4, 1969, Page 12.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Pilcher, Beryl Alvin 2/28/2013 Glenwood. Beryl Pilcher, 64, died at the On With Life Home
Thursday, February 28, 2013. He was born on August 18, 1948 in Ottumwa, Iowa the son of
Beryl and Doris (Williams) Pilcher, Sr. He is survived by his mother, and siblings; Jimmy, Mike,
David, and Nancy Pilcher, Karen Zajcew, Kathy Powell and Kenny Pilcher. Beryl was preceded in
death by his father, sister; Pam and brother; Harold. The family would like to thank the
wonderful staff at On With Life in Glenwood and Ankeny for their dedication and services they
provide. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 7, 2013 at Highland
Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorials may be made to On With Life 714 Lacey Suite 100
Glenwood, IA 51534. Published in Des Moines Register on March 3, 2013.
Rogers, Craig Allen 8/26/2011 Craig A. Rogers, of Des Moines, passed away August 26, 2011.
He was born in Sibley, Iowa on February 3, 1950. Craig graduated from Des Moines' North High
School and attended Morningside College at Sioux City and University of Arizona at Tempe. He
was an Eagle Scout and enjoyed cooking, reading, movies, and being outdoors gardening and
camping. Craig had recently moved back to Des Moines after living in Phoenix and San Diego
for over forty years. He is survived by his sons Chase of San Diego, CA and Cody of West Des
Moines, parents Orville and Ivadene (Schuck) Rogers of Des Moines, brother Randy (Linda)
Rogers of Adel, sister Diane Baker of Urbandale, and sister Lori (Scott) Belknap of Johnston. He
is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the
family. A memorial service will be held at Douglas Ave. Presbyterian Church on Friday,
September 2 at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Glendale cemetery. Published in Des Moines Register
on August 30, 2011.
Russell, Terry Phillip 4/5/1996 Terry Phillip Russell, 47, of Durango, Colo., died of cancer Friday
at home. The body was cremated and memorial services are at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Merle
Hay Funeral Chapel in Des Moines. Mr. Russell was born in Des Moines and moved to Colorado
eight years ago. He was owner of a Mac Tools franchise and served in the Army during the
Vietnam War. Among survivors are his wife, Peggy; a stepson, Travis Sayre of Estes Park, Colo.,
and his mother, Madge Davis, and a sister, Cinda Cox, both of Des Moines. The Des Moines
Register, April 11, 1996, Page 7M.
P a g e | 18
NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Shearer, Thelma Ann Jones 6/30/2002 Urbandale. Thelma Ann Jones, 51, of the 5300 block of
Northwest 72nd Street in Urbandale died of cancer Sunday at home. Services will be at noon
Wednesday at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens Funeral Home. Cremation will follow
services. Entombment of the cremains will be at Merle Hay Mausoleum. Mrs. Jones was born
in Des Moines and had lived in the Des Moines area all her life. She was an office manager with
R. Jones Collision Repair and enjoyed NASCAR racing, flower gardening, her cats and traveling
with others. She is survived by her husband, Robert Jr.; two daughters, Christy Jones of
Urbandale and Kate Thilges of Cedar Falls; her mother, Eulah Shearer of Johnston; and a
brother, Mike Shearer of Minneapolis. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. today at
the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central Iowa. The Des
Moines Register, July 2, 2002, Metro section, page 4, column 5.
Slack, Mark Edward 1/26/2010 Services for Mark Slack, 59, will be Saturday, January 30, 2010
at 10:30 AM at the Dallas Christian Church in Melcher-Dallas. Family will receive friends on
Friday from 6 until 8 PM at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Melcher-Dallas. Memorials to
Iowa Kid Sight. Mark was born July 31, 1950 in Des Moines, Iowa to Keith and Lois Edison Slack.
He graduated from North High School in 1968 and attended Grandview College where he met
his wife Nancy O'Donnell. They were married in Des Moines on November 16, 1971 and were
blessed with three children: Angela, Jennifer, and Russ. Mark was employed as a Loss Control
Safety Officer for Continental Western Insurance Company. Mark enjoyed restoring old radios,
playing the guitar and piano, and collecting Cleveland Indians memorabilia. However he was an
avid Kansas City Royals fan. He also enjoyed being a ham radio operator, passing this hobby
along to his children. He belonged to the Dallas Christian Church and to the Lions Club. He had
a great sense of humor and loved telling fun stories and playing games with his children and
family. Mark passed away at his home on January 26, 2010. He was preceded in death by his
mother Lois and a sister Cheryl. Surviving are his wife of 38 years Nancy; his father Keith Slack of Saylorville; children:
Angela (Brian) Sarvis of Indianola, Jennifer (Paul) Abbott of Des Moines, and Russ (Lori) Slack of Urbandale; 3
grandchildren: Benjamin and Emily Sarvis, and Keaton Slack; a sister Julie Slack and niece Bella of Des Moines; and many
relatives and friends. Pierschbacher Funeral Homes online.
Smith, Daniel Joseph 6/3/2007 Newton. Daniel Joseph Smith, the son of Charles Joe Smith and
Margaret Morris was born August 21, 1950 in Des Moines, Iowa. He attended All Saints Catholic
School and North High School in Des Moines. He received a degree in Occupational Therapy in
Lomelinda, California and a degree as a Para Legal from the San Bernardino Valley College in
California. Daniel worked for Ford Glass Company in Des Moines and Tesoro Petroleum
Company in California. On September 26, 2003 Daniel was united in marriage with Margo N.
Lopez Smith in Fairfield, California. Daniel was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church in Colfax. He loved his family and enjoyed gold prospecting, golfing. Daniel, 56, died
Sunday, June 3, 2007 at the Monarch Wing at Skiff Medical Center in Newton. He was preceded
in death by his daughters Patricia Smith and Renee Smith. Those left to honor the memory of
Daniel include his wife Margo Smith of Newton, Iowa; sons, Jesse Smith of Newton and Shawn
Springer of California; daughter Selina Tarbell of California, three grandchildren, parents Charles
and Margaret Smith of Colfax, Iowa, brothers Michael, Jim, Greg, Tom, Tim, sisters Theresa,
Kathy, and Elizabeth. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Church in Newton. Friends may call after 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church. The family will greet friends at the church
from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be designated in Daniels name and left at the church or
at Pence Reese Funeral Home. The Des Moines Register, June 6, 2007, page 7B.
Smith, Eddie Bernard 6/16/2011 Des Moines. Funeral services for Eddie Bernard Smith, Sr. 61 will be held on Wednesday,
June 22, 2011 12p.m. at Union Baptist Church 1200 McCormick with viewing beginning at 9a.m. Burial with military honors
will follow at Sunset Cemetery. He is survived by his loving mother, Jessie Mae; his devoted wife, De Morris (Diane); his
children: Corey, Shonda, Eddie Jr. (EJ) and Tosha; adopted daughter Maureena Summers; eight grandchildren; three great-
grandchildren; brothers, Willie and Marty; sisters, Regina and Ramona. A host of other relatives and friends. Published in
Des Moines Register on June 21, 2011.
Stewart, Kristin Alexis Abbey 4/16/1972 Mrs. Kristin S. Abbey. Services will be at 1 p.m.
Saturday at the Dahlstrom Funeral home for Mrs. Kristin Stewart Abbey, 21, of Longmont, Colo.,
formerly of Des Moines. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens cemetery. Mrs. Abbey
died Sunday of a skull fracture suffered in a one-car accident on Highway 56 near Berthoud,
Colo. A Colorado state patrolman said a car driven by Mrs. Abbey’s husband, Douglas, left the
road, was airborne for 120 feet and rolled twice. Abbey was hospitalized with a broken neck.
Mrs. Abbey, a bank employee in Colorado, was a graduate of North High School and a member
of Highland Park Christian Church here. Survivors, in addition to her husband, are her mother,
Mrs. Margaret Stewart, and grandfather, C.H. Vestine, both of Des Moines. The Des Moines
Tribune, Page 13, Column 1, April 21, 1972.
Stole, Richard Noel 1/18/2007 Des Moines. Dick Stole, 57, died Thursday, January 18, 2007 at
home from a heart attack. Visitation begins after 4 p.m. Tuesday at Iles Funeral Homes-
Westover Chapel where the family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at
7 p.m. Dick was a beloved son, father, grandfather and a husband. He lived in Des Moines all
of his life. Dick was a gifted carpenter and a member of Union Local #106. He loved boating
and being with friends and family at the lake. Dick was always there to lend a hand to anyone
who needed it. Dick is survived by his wife of 26 years Suzanne, his mother Rose Stole of Des
Moines, his children Lee Stole of Tennessee, Tina Stole of Florida and Heather Johnson of Des
Moines, two grandchildren, Joshua and Shianne Johnson of Des Moines and his brother Bob
Stole of Des Moines. He was preceded in death by his father Orland Noel Stole, brother Ronald
Stole and his sister Eileen Lewis. The Des Moines Register, January 21, 2007, Metro section,
page 7, column 3.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Streeter, Danny David 9/23/2011 Danny was born November 6, 1948 in Des Moines to Leslie
E. and Margaret Pearl (Buchanan) Streeter. He passed away from a heart attack at his home
on September 23, 2011. He was divorced. Hamilton’s Funeral Home on Lyon Street handled
his arrangements. Information from death certificate, Polk County, Iowa.
Switzer, Katherine Mae 1/17/1998 Des Moines. Katherine Mae Switzer, 48, of 2549 E 23rd
St. died of a heart attack Saturday at home. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at
Laurel Hill Cemetery. She was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of Des Moines. Survivors
include two sisters, Kathleen Switzer and June Switzer, and a brother Jack Switzer, all of Des
Moines. The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 today at Hamilton’s Funeral Home.
Published in Des Moines Register, January 21, 1998, Page 6M.
Van Hoosear, Lewis Le Vern Jr. 5/20/1994 Halifax, VT – Lewis L. Van Hoosear, Jr., MD, physician
and anesthesiologist died Friday, May 20 at home. He was born in Des Moines Nov. 14, 1950,
the son of Lewis L. and Clara (Berardi) Van Hoosear. He attended local schools here. Graduated
from Harvard College, 1972, he received his MD from Harvard Medical School, 1976. Interned
at the USPHS hospital Brighton, MA and completed his residency in anesthesiology at
Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston; also a clinical fellow in anesthesia at Harvard Medical
School. He was a member of the Vermont State Medical Society and the American Society of
Anesthesiologists. A Memorial Service will be held Mon. May 30 at 11 AM at his home, 380
Jacksonville Stage Road, Halifax, VT 05301. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity
of one’s choice. Atamaniuk Funeral home, Brattleboro, VT is in charge of arrangements. The
Des Moines Register, May 27, 1994, Metro, Page 7, Column 6.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Vaughn, Gerald Eugene 2/12/2002 Des Moines. Gerald Eugene Vaughn, 51, or the 1900 block
of Lincoln Avenue died of a heart ailment Tuesday at Home. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday
at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, with burial at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Mr. Vaughn
had lived in Des Moines all his life. He was a meat cutter with Iowa Pack Co., an Army veteran
and a member of LeRoy Stanley Mixed Bowling League. He enjoyed bowling, fishing and
vacationing. He is survived by his father, Roy Vaughn, a sister, Carol Guyer, and a brother
Robert, all of Des Moines. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. The
Des Moines Register, 02/14/2002, page 5-B.
Wease, Robert D. 11/25/1967 Wednesday Rites for R.D. Wease. Services for Robert D. Wease,
18, of 834 Ninth st., will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at St. Paul A.M.E. Church. Burial will be at
Glendale Cemetery. Robert was killed Saturday when a car jack slipped and the car under which
he was working crushed his chest. He was a senior at North High School and had lived much of
his life in Des Moines. He was a high school track letterman. Survivors include his mother, Mrs.
Janis L. Morris of Minneapolis, Minn,; two brothers, Eugene of Des Moines and Daniel of
Minneapolis; three half-brothers, Grant and Louie Morris, both of Rock Island, Ill., and Clarence
Morris of Minneapolis; his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Vaughn of Des Moines;
and his paternal grandparents, Mrs. Shirley Hickie and Hayes Wease, both of Des Moines. The
Des Moines Register, Page 10, Column 13, November 28, 1967.
Weis, Ronald Bruce 2/2/2008 Des Moines. Ronald Bruce “Bandit” Weis Sr. passed away on
February 2, 2008 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral services will be at
1 p.m. Thursday at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home with burial following at Sunset
Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday evening
at the funeral home. He is survived by his loving wife Julie, his three sons Ron Jr., David Lee and
Cody Sanders, his daughter Tammy, his sister Billie, his brothers Gary, Donnie, Charlie, Robert
and David Weis as well as eleven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Willet
and Mary Weis, his brother Michael and his son Billy. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions
may be made to the family. Ron’s family would like to give a special thank you to Hospice of
Central Iowa. The Des Moines Register, February 5, 2008, Page 5- B.
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
Westby, Patricia Ann Boal 6/26/2009 Patricia Westby "Pat" Boal, 58, passed away Friday, June
26, 2009 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, in Des Moines, after battling breast cancer for
nearly four years. A celebration of Pat's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, at Gloria
Dei Lutheran Church in Urbandale. Private burial will take place at McDivitt Grove Cemetery in
Urbandale. She is survived by her husband of 29 years, Steven Boal of Des Moines; mother,
Geraldine Westby of Des Moines; sister-in-law, Beverly Boal of Des Moines; sister, Patricia
(James) Dearduff of Clive; brother, Tom (Joyce) Westby of Urbandale; two nieces, Julie and
Tracey; and one nephew, Jon Westby. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June
29, at Iles Funeral Homes – Westover Chapel in Des Moines. Memorials and other contributions
may be made to either: John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines; or a favorite charity of the
donor's choice. Find A Grave Memorial# 38843085. Same obituary appeared in The Des Moines
Register, June 28, 2009.
Williams, Darnell 1/24/1980 No services are planned for Darnell Williams, 29, of 314 E. Sheridan
Ave., who died of a gunshot wound Thursday at Broadlawns Medical Center. The body has been
cremated. Mr. Williams was born in East Chicago, Ind., and lived in Des Moines 14 years. He
was an instructor at the Soul Street Day Care Learning Center Inc. Survivors include two
daughters, Kanika and Brandy, both of Des Moines; three sons, Robert, Cory and Darnell, all of
Des Moines; his mother Dorothy Williams of Des Moines; his stepfather, James Green of Des
Moines; five brothers, Lafayette, Jesse, Andrew, Darrell and Antonio, all of Des Moines; a
grandmother, Anna Crowder of Chicago, Ill., and a step grandfather, Jesse Smith of Des Moines.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Soul Street Day Care Learning Center, 1345
Sixteenth St. The Des Moines Tribune, Page 10, Column 3, January 25, 1980.
Webb-Bey, Robert Jr. 3/24/14 Robert passed away on March 14, 2014. Two obits: A memorial
service will be held 11 a.m., Friday, March 21, 2014 at True Bible Baptist Church. Bobby is
survived by his wife, Theresa Webb-Bey; his children, Shawn (Jennifer) St. John, Ryan (Jennifer)
St. John, and Tina St. John; along with many other family members and friends. Published in
the Des Moines Register 03/20/2014. 2. Mr. Robert Eugene Webb-Bey, Jr. was born November
11, 1948 in Pueblo, Colorado to Evurma A. Martin and Robert Eugene Webb-Bey, Sr. Robert was
educated in the Des Moines Public Schools and graduated in 1968. He later received some
college credit at Des Moines Area Community College. Robert was an Adult Mental Health
Specialist for Broadlawns and Lutheran Hospitals for most of his life. He retired from Lutheran
Hospital. Robert married the love of his life, Theresa Vance on October 15, 1988 in Des Moines,
IA. Robert raised Theresa's three children, Shawn, Ryan and Tina, as his own. He was a great
father to them and loved them unconditionally. Robert used to play baseball during his high
school years and also ran track for North High School track team. Robert was quite the musician
and could play an accordion. He loved to sing, eat and joke at his family gatherings. Family was his first priority. He was a
well liked man and everyone enjoyed his company. Robert passed away on March 14, 2014 surrounded by his family. He
is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Evurma Webb- Bey; his sister, Gloria-Jean Heard; his brothers, Anthony
and Rufus Webb-Bey. Robert is survived by his wife, Theresa Webb-Bey; his children, Shawn (Jennifer) St. John, Ryan
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NORTH HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1968 IN MEMORIAM
(Jennifer) St. John, Tina St. John; his grandchildren, Aden Armstrong, Ricky, Lindsey, Hunter, Cameron, and Hannah St.
John; his great-grandchild, Brennon St. John; his godson, Frank Williams, Jr.; his sisters, Odessa Webb-Bey, Juanita
Buchanan, Theresa "Tesse" (Pedro) Hayes; his brothers, Shonne and Harry Webb-Bey; along with a host of extended family
and friends. Time and Date of Service to be announced. From Hendersons website.
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