Frances Huston passed away Wednesday, August 30, 2023. She was a resident of Hickory Grove in Carthage for the past 2 ½ years. She was formerly of the Burnside and LaHarpe area and lived in Quincy for a few years.

Frances was born December 24, 1922 in Carthage and celebrated her 100th birthday in 2022. She was the daughter of Arch and Eva (Grotts) Reed. She attended country school, twice completing two grades in one year. She graduated from Burnside’s three year high school and took her 4th year at Colusa High School, graduating at the age of 15. She attended Western Illinois Teachers’ College and later completed her degree at Carthage College. She taught at McGuffy rural school, Colusa, Burnside and Disco schools, with most of her career at the Durham and LaHarpe Elementary Schools.

She was a member of the LaHarpe Christian Church.

On November 10, 1945 she married Keith M. Huston in Macomb, Illinois. They were the parents of two daughters: Donna (Wendell) Cunningham of Quincy, Illinois and Dianne (Rick) Balmer of Carthage They had three grandchildren: Tod (Jennifer) Cunningham of Quincy, Julie (Drew) Becquette of Savoy and Jenni (Eric) Little of LaHarpe; and eight grandchildren: Emma, Gwen, Addy and Noah Cunningham, Caroline and Avery Becquette, Logan and Kaden Little.

After retirement she and Keith enjoyed nearly 20 winters in South Texas.

She was preceded in death by husband, parents; one brother: Keith Reed and a sister in infancy.

Cremation has been entrusted to Banks & Beals Funeral Home of LaHarpe.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 3, 2023 at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester, Illinois, with Rex Huston officiating. No visitation is planned. Friends are welcome to join the family for refreshments following the graveside at Dianne’s home: 503 Hansford St., Carthage, Illinois 62321. 

A memorial fund has been established for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Frances’ obituary at www.banksandbeals.com.

Cecel Grace Atkinson Neff, 92, of Nauvoo and Keokuk, passed away Saturday, August 26, 2023, at Southeast Iowa Hospice House in West Burlington.

Cecel was born December 16, 1930, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Alexander and Jessie Mildred Pilkington Atkinson. She was united in marriage to Estel Glen Neff on December 19, 1948, in Hamilton, Illinois.

Cecel graduated from Hamilton High School in 1948. She was a homemaker for many years, and at 60 returned to school and graduated from Midstate College, Carthage, Illinois, with a honors. She was employed as a medical transcriptionist at KAH. More recently, She co-owned and operated Neff’s Old House Books in Hamilton and Nauvoo with her husband until his death.  

Cecel was very involved in her daughters’ activities, including Room Mother, Girl Scouts and PTA.. She was also a volunteer in the community and member of Trinity United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women, as well as Newcomer Club, Hospital Auxiliary, Lee County Historical Society and Chapter LZ, and P.E.O. 

Cecel was an art lover, who was fond of visiting museums and touring Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes. She was also an avid gardener with a passion for nature and spent many hours in her garden and woods. She was always interested in everything about the Mississippi and kept a close eye on it from her home on the bluff above the Great River Road.

Cecel and Estel enjoyed collecting: books, Heisey glassware, local historical memorabilia, dishes and sterling spoons. (However, she noted that her most prized possessions were those her girls made.) They were also fortunate to enjoy travel to: Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, Scandinavia, Jamaica, Israel, Egyp and Italy.

Cecel is survived by five daughters: Theresa DeJong (Dirk) of Keokuk, Sharon Neff (Ben Marion) of Ely, Iowa, Kathy Neff of Hannibal, Missouri, Martha Neff (Tom Russell) of Keokuk, and Mary Jo Riesberg (Vernon Windsor) of Keokuk; eleven grandchildren: Kathryn Scruggs (Kevin) of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sarah DeJong (Joshua Koza) of Iowa City, Iowa, Elizabeth Fuchsen (Jeffrey) of Urbandale, Iowa, Laura DeJong (Jeremy Getta) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Jacob Russell of Keokuk, Lindy Russell (Xavier Diez) of Barcelona, Spain, Abby Webster of South Beach, Oregon, Jordan Webster of Austin, Texas, Louis Riesberg of West Point, Iowa, Dayne Riesberg of New London, Iowa, and Jocelyn Riesberg of Houston, Texas; eight great-grandchildren: William Scruggs, Chelsea Fuchsen, Abigail and Jacob Koza, Katherine Marshall, Alyssa Spoores, Elena Cecel Diez, and Samson Riesberg.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Estel, on December 28, 2018, her parents, and her brother Paul Atkinson and his wife, Mary.

Her life will be celebrated on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at DeJong Greaves Printy Funeral Home, beginning with a visitation from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon. A P.E.O. Memorial Service will begin at 12:00, followed by a funeral service with Rev. John Raab officiating. A lunch will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church following the service. A procession will leave the church at 2:30 to Thornber Cemetery at Powellton, Illinois, for burial.

"To know her was to love her and to feel loved." 

The family suggests memorials to P.E.O. Educational Loan Fund or to Trinity United Methodist Church.

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.dejongsfuneralhome.com.

DeJong-Greaves-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.

Ashley Austin, 34, of Warsaw, passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at her home in Warsaw.

Ashley was born on November 1, 1988, in Carthage, Illinois, the daughter of Jeffrey L. and Marilyn Jean (Hauff) Austin. She graduated from Warsaw High School in 2007. On September 9, 2017, she was united in marriage to Tiffany Lynn Getz in Warsaw, Illinois. She survives. Ashley was employed at Subway in Hamilton and later as a bartender at Whitey’s Bar in Hamilton. She loved to write, and watch movies and listen to music. But most of all, she loved her dogs Zander and Lucy. She was the life of every party and had a huge heart. Her many friends will always remember her as generous, kind and loyal to a fault.

Ashley is survived by her wife Tiffany Austin of Colchester, Illinois; her father Jeff Austin of Warsaw; her biological father Guy Daniels of Nauvoo, Illinois; her biological mother Angela (Johnny) Gonzales of Carthage; her grandmother Karen Daniels of Keokuk; her step-father Joel Washburn of Carthage; seven siblings: Christian Hauff of Keokuk, Thadius Hester of Fort Madison, Jade Washburn of Carthage, Koral Washburn of Carthage, and Jackson, Bella and Maddy Rose, all of Keokuk; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ashley is preceded in death by her mother Marilyn Austin of Warsaw, two grandfathers: Donnie Bigelow and Harold Daniels; her step-brother Nate Trager and her cousin Nathan Keppel.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, September 1, 2023, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 am to 1 pm on Friday directly before the service.

Memorials may be directed to Hearts of Hancock Humane Society.

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.dejongsfuneralhome.com.

Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Harriet Carol (Krown) Luebke, 89, of Hamilton, passed away at The Kensington in Fort Madison, Iowa, at 7:37 a.m., Saturday, August 26, 2023.

Carol was born December 30, 1933, daughter of Harry and Iris (Torum) Krown, in Hammond, Indiana.  She graduated from Sparta High School in Sparta, Illinois.

On June 21, 1952, she was united in marriage to Wilfred (Bill) Luebke.  Bill was her “honey” and the love of her life.  He preceded her in death on January 24, 2021.  

Carol worked at her dad’s filling station and as a switchboard operator for AT&T in her late teens.  She worked at Sheller Globe for ten years, before retiring.  

Carol was a member of First Lutheran Church in Keokuk and has always enjoyed being involved and serving at church functions.  Through the years, she was a Sunday School teacher, helped at many Vacation Bible Schools, was involved in Women’s Ministries, participated in creating the stained glass windows at Concordia Lutheran Church, and helped start a Lutheran Preschool in Warsaw.  She and Bill enjoyed traveling (especially to see their kids and grandkids), attending auctions, and raising ponies.  She was always finding treasures among “boxes of stuff” that she’d purchased at an auction.  She loved to “go bumming” with the family as they’d drive, shop, or visit favorite places together.  Carol loved Christmastime and the lights that went along with it.  She was Santa’s helper and loved dressing as Santa Claus to visit the school and library.  She even had a mobile Santa house that Bill built for her.  She was an avid crafter and a skilled painter of ceramics.  She was known in the family for her cooking, especially her Texas sheet cake, potato salad, candied sweet potatoes, and Jell-o salads.  She always cooked in large batches because she was usually feeding her big family.  Of all things, family was most important to her.  She cherished times together with her children and grandchildren.  Her faith in Jesus was unwavering and it was reflected in the love she showed everyone.  

Carol is survived by her children:  Jesse (Annette) Luebke of Hamilton, Karen Brooks of Denton, Texas, Cheryl (Dave Sr.) Jones, of Kimberling City, Missouri, Lauren (Jason) Roth of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and step-daughter Julia Comstock of Menomonie, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Jill (Brent) Dobbins, Megan (Jared) Massey, Erin (Tyler) Brown, Britin (Chris) Strong, Shannon Brooks, Jenny (Marty) Matherly, David Jr. (Cathy) Jones, David Jr. (Amanda) Stice, Chad Roth, Brent (Crystal) Roth, Noelle (Justin) Brunet, Jamie (Stacy) Burr, Scott Burr, and Wendy Ziehme; twenty-five great-grandchildren; sister, Elaine Luebke; sister-in-law, Tangaira Krown; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her husband’s parents; granddaughter, Alichia Luebke; grandson; Brian Stice; son-in-law, Jess Brooks; sister, June Poppe; brother, Louis Krown; brothers-in-law, Wallace Luebke and Harold Luebke; and sister-in-law, Caroline Meier. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 31st from 9:00-11:00, with family meeting friends at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton.  The Funeral Service will immediately follow at 11 a.m., with grandson, Rev. Jared Massey, officiating.  Burial will be at 12:30 p.m. at the Keokuk National Cemetery with military rites for her husband, Bill.

Memorials may be made out to The Kensington or Southeast Iowa Hospice.

Printy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Harry Aloysius Higgins

1939 – 2023

     Harry Aloysius Higgins, 84, formally of Keokuk, IA, passed away on August 11, 2023, at the Arbor Court nursing home facility in Mt. Pleasant, IA, where he had been living the past few months.

     Harry was born on June 29, 1939, in Kirksville, MO.  He graduated from Kirksville High School in 1957 and served four years in the United States Air Force.  On April 15, 1972, Harry was united in marriage to Doris Bowman, who passed away on July 6, 2019.

     Harry is survived by one brother, John Higgins of Greentop, MO and one sister-in-law, Carolyn Higgins of Greentop, MO, and several nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Catherine (Ludden) Higgins; his wife, Doris, three sisters, Annabel Stober, Margaret Snell, and Mary Hatfield; one brother, George Higgins; and three brothers-in-law, Jim Stober, Gus Snell, and George Hatfield.

      Harry worked at the Burlington Ammunition Plant for many years and enjoyed water dog racing.

     A graveside service with military rites will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 2, 2023 in the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Keokuk, IA with Reverend David Brownfield, Ph.D. officiating. 

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Matthew Noel Burns

1976-2023

   Matthew Noel Burns, 47, of Keokuk, IA, passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023, in Alaska. 

     He was born on January 27, 1976, in Centerville, Iowa, to Ron and Karla Burns.

     He enjoyed growing up in Centerville, IA, where he participated in little league baseball, cross country, and marching band. After graduating from Bible college, he married Sarah J. Schrock on June 4, 1999.

     Matt and his family spent about ten years doing mission work, mainly in Venezuela and Peru, where he put to good use his love for the Spanish language he had learned in high school. After returning to America, he started a business, Matthew’s Construction, where he served many satisfied customers in the tri-state area for more than a decade. His children enjoyed serving alongside him in this business.

     He loved spending time with his family, whether on vacation, on jeep drives, day trips, drives along the Mississippi, playing games, or just talking about life. Friends were always welcomed into his home with open arms and were made to feel like family. To know him was to love him.

     He was a born-again Christian and attended the First Baptist Church in Wayland, MO, where he helped out in any way possible. Many missionaries, ministries, and camps have been the beneficiary of his time, talents, and finances. He was proud to serve his community through the Jackson Township Fire Department.

     Matt is survived by his wife, Sarah J. Burns, of Keokuk, IA; one daughter, Rebekah (Eli) Miller, of Pleasantville, IA; and three sons of the home: Timothy, Daniel, and Nathaniel; and one grandson, Lane Miller. Other survivors include his parents, Ron and Karla Burns, and one sister, Kimberly (Scot) Schwestka, as well as many in-laws, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

     Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ray and Maxine Burns, and De Alton and Bertha Anderson, as well as his sister, Rachel Grassi.

     A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 1, 2023 at the First Baptist Church in Wayland, MO. Burial will be in the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Keokuk, IA.

     Visitation will be from 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday, August 31, 2023 at the First Baptist Church in Wayland, MO with the family meeting with friends at that time.  

     Matt was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, son-in-law, uncle, grandson, and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.  

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Jewel D. Aeilts, 96, of Carthage, passed away Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at 7:40 PM at
Memorial Hospital in Carthage.
Jewel was born August 14, 1927, in Britton, South Dakota. She was the daughter of Howard
and Ellen (Rapp) Carson. While living in South Dakota, she attended Langford High School and
received her teaching certificate from Northern State University in Aberdeen. On June 18, 1950,
Jewel married Lester Aeilts. He preceded her in death in 2006.
One of Jewel’s favorite Bible verses was Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord, with all your heart,
and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your
paths straight.” Through her trust and obedience to the Lord, Jewel served her family and
community faithfully in her time on earth. She worked as an elementary school teacher and also
taught Sunday School for years. Jewel intentionally invested in the lives of others by serving in
many local community organizations such as Girl Scouts, Meals on Wheels, Shepherd’s Pantry,
and reading to residents at local care centers. She loved writing personal notes to people for
special occasions, holidays, and birthdays. One of the many gifts to her grandchildren was a $5
bill tucked inside a note card for each holiday and her singing “Happy Birthday” over the phone.
She loved cheering on her children and grandchildren in different school and sporting events,
making it a priority to show up and be present. 
She loved her family deeply and prayed fervently for each individual every single day. In her
lifetime, Jewel modeled what it looked like to trust in the Lord and follow His will. We may never
fully know the impact that she had on earth, but it is safe to assume that we will be reaping the
many seeds planted by her obedience to the Lord throughout eternity.
Jewel is survived by her children, Mary (Sam) Wood, of Elvaston, IL, Marcia Hodges, of
Oakland, CA, Doug (Pam) Aeilts of Hannibal, MO, Faith Aeilts of Louisville, KY, Mark (Nina)
Aeilts of St. Joseph, MO and Marilyn (Jeff) Blucker of Galesburg, IL; grandchildren Sara (Bill)
Barker, Carrie Wood, Laura (Brandon) Gumbiner, Ryan (Lindsey) Wood, Jason (Ashley) Aeilts,
Jeremy (Katherine) Aeilts, Hannah (James) Rosenkrans, Nate (Armila) Aeilts, Andrew (Nicole)
Aeilts, Kelly (Andrew) Cooke, Amy (Zac) Nehls and Emily Blucker; twenty great-grandchildren;
one brother, Floyd Carson of Brookings, SD; and a sister-in-law, Gwen Carson of Bemidji, MN.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Lester: a son, Randall Aeilts; two sisters,
Carol Anderson and Hazel Erickson; and two brothers, Dale and Bruce Carson.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday morning, September 30, 2023, at Printy
Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be held
from 9:00 AM until time of services at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the
Memorial Hospital Foundation for the Grow Our Own scholarship campaign, The 'Grow Our
Own' campaign seeks to raise scholarship funds that will be used to support Memorial Hospital,
Memorial Medical Clinics, and Hancock County Senior & Childcare team members in their
pursuit of higher education and certification completion.
https://www.mhtlc.org/foundation/donate/. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of
arrangements.

Joy Helen Kemper

1942-2023

     Joy Helen Kemper, 81 of Montrose, IA passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

     She was born July 7, 1942 in Gladstone, IL the daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Whitaker Bowen. 

     Joy had been employed by Armour Dial until her retirement.

     She enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles, gardening, watching westerns and football.

     Joy is survived by three children, David Hamner (Lori), Deneen Hamner and Maxx Lane (Eugene), four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by one sister, Jackie Kuda (William).

     She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, William Bowen and two sisters, Betty Black and Hazel Randell.

     A gathering of remembrance will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, at the Montrose Cemetery in Montrose, IA with Pastor Preston Smith officiating.   

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to the Montrose Church of Nazarene.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Luke Swartz Jr.,79, of Carthage, passed away at 2:45 AM Thursday, August 24, 2023, at his
home.
Luke was born in Long Beach, California, the son of Luke and Elsie (Buckley) Swartz Sr. He
graduated from Dominguez High School in Compton, California in 1961. He went on to
trade school where he studied auto mechanics. On September 3,1963 he married Lois Van
Auker in Twin Falls, Idaho. Luke owned and operated a Volkswagen shop in Orange,
California for many years. He then finished his working career as a painting contractor,
retiring in April 2023. He loved everything about Hot Rods and drag racing. He always loved
going to the LA Roadster show. Luke was of the catholic faith.
Luke is survived by his wife, Lois; and a daughter Shari (Patrick) Doty of Carthage.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and in-laws Glen (Imoe) Van Auker.
No services are planned at this time. Printy Funeral Home in Carthage is in charge of
arrangements.

Dorothy L. “Dotty” Summers

1932-2023

     Dorothy L. “Dotty” Summers, 90 of Nauvoo, IL died Monday, August 21, 2023 at River Hills Village in Keokuk, IA.

     She was born November 8, 1932 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Clayton and Hazel Cale Jones.  Dotty graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1950. 

     On June 7, 1953 Dotty was united in marriage to E. Gene Summers at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Keokuk.  He preceded her in death on April 11, 2014.

     Dotty was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Keokuk. 

     She is survived by two sons, Doug (Becky) Summers of Hamilton, IL and Hank (Shelly) Summers of Hamilton, IL, six grandchildren, Zach (Randi) Summers, Ben (Kelsey) Summers, Kendall (Carly) Summers, Emma (Leigh) Powell, Ethan (Alyssa) Summers and Lydia Summers and seven great- grandchildren. 

     Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, David at birth and one sister, Betty Peterson. 

     There will be no services at this time.  A private interment will be held at a later date.

    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to PAW Animal Shelter in Ft. Madison, IA.

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Doris J. Meeker, 96, of Quincy, formerly of Warsaw, passed away at 8:53 PM Monday, August 21, 2023, at her home.

Doris was born in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Howard and Alma (Ensminer) Jenkins.  She moved to Warsaw at the age of 5 and resided there until she attended nursing school at St. Mary’s Hospital in Quincy.  She graduated from St. Mary’s in 1948 and returned to Keokuk, Iowa, where she worked as a hospital surgical nurse for one year and later as a private duty nurse.

She married Lawrence Meeker on June 18, 1949.  He preceded her in death on January 9, 1998.  They lived and farmed in the Warsaw bottom area for over 60 years and were pilots and members of the International Flying Farmer organization.  She is survived by a sister-in-law, Alice Jenkins and several nieces, nephews and cherished friends.

Doris was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Warsaw where she and Lawrence were faithful choir members for many years.  She later was a member of the Volunteer Voices of Quincy.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday morning, August 25, 2023, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw.  The family will meet friends beginning at 10:00 AM until time of services at 11:00 at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to the Trinity United Methodist Church, 510 Crawford Street, Warsaw, IL  62379.  Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Julie Louise Holt, age 61, entered into eternal life on August 21, 2023. She was born December
31, 1961, to Jack Perry and Alice Virginia (Yates) Holt. She attended many mentally disabled
schools throughout the years and received a diploma from Carthage High School in May 1983.
Julie lived at home for most of her life, then went to live at Maple Terrace Group Home in
Quincy, Illinois. She went fishing with her stepfather, John Hurwitz many times over the years
and enjoyed riding in his truck. Julie was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church of
Carthage. She brought joy and much love to many throughout her life.
Julie is survived by her mother, Virginia (Ginny) Hurwitz, of Carthage; three sisters, Beverly (Jim)
Wilson of Carthage; Susan (Charles) Strubinger of Foristell, MO; Debbie (Curtis) Wilhite of
Carthage; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Julie was preceded in death by her father, stepfather, brothers and sister, Jack Holt Jr., Jon
(Madonna) Holt, Jimmy Holt, Marilyn Holt, nephews Jack C Holt and Tim Holt, many aunts,
uncles, cousins and also, Mary Agnes Yates, her aunt who lived with the family for many years
helping to care for her and her young brother and sisters.
The family of Julie would like to thank her special caregiver and friend, Cindy Spees, and also
thank the staff of Maple Terrace who have loved and cared for her over the years. Special
thanks to former director Jan Koehler, current director Jena Blacketer, and staff Eric Sprinkle.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Monday
morning, August 28, 2023, with burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery in Carthage. The family will
meet friends from 2:00 – 4:00 P.M. Sunday afternoon at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage.
Memorials may be made to Hancock County Mental Health, Maple Terrace of Quincy and
Immaculate Conception Church of Carthage. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of
arrangements.

Barbara Mae Kelly, 94, of Quincy, formerly of Hamilton, passed away on Friday, August 18, 2023, at Sunset
Home in Quincy.
Barbara was born in Keokuk, IA on October 29, 1928, the daughter of Fred and Edith (Alley) Hartweg. She
graduated from Hamilton High School in 1946. She then attended Carthage College as well as Air Traffic
Control school in Omaha, NE. On March 4, 1951, she was united in marriage to Stuart Kelly at the Ferris
Christian Church. They shared over 67 years of marriage before his death on September 24, 2018. Barbara
spent most of her life as a farm wife and mother. She worked hard on the farm, alongside her husband, raising
dairy cattle, chickens, and sheep. It was not unusual to find a newborn lamb wrapped in a towel warming on
the open oven door. She put out large gardens and rarely let anything go to waste, canning and freezing
everything that she could.
She was a skilled seamstress and would make most of her and her family’s clothes, including her own wedding
dress as well as her daughters’ wedding dresses. In her later years, she worked for the Hancock County Health
Department where she made many friends. Barbara was very active in the Ferris Christian Church singing in
the choir, helping with VBS, quilting with the ladies, helping with funeral dinners, and starting a nursery class
shortly after her youngest child was born, continuing to teach it for nearly 50 years. She supported her
husband’s involvement with an orphanage when he was stationed in Korea during the war by collecting large
amounts of baby and children’s clothing and shipping them overseas. Barbara also supported Stuart’s
involvement with Christianville Ministries in Haiti where she would pack supplies for him to take with him, and
even took a trip to Haiti to help the children. She was a source of advice and knowledge to many. Whenever
her children would leave, she would always say “Drive Safe. Watch for deer.” Those were some of the last
words she shared with her daughter and son-in-law on their last trip home before her death.
Barbara is survived by her four children; Clifford (Judy) Kelly of Charles City, IA, Cristine (Tom) Anders of
Covington, IN, David (Mary) Kelly of Mead, CO, and Margaret (Brent) Roe of Quincy, IL; her grandchildren,
Andrew (Jennifer) Kelly, Aaron (Katie) Kelly, Anne Lappe, Sarah (Brian) De Neal, Seth (Amber) Anders, Caleb
Anders, Amanda (Peter) Strutton, Adam (Faith) Kelly, and Zachary (Jenna) Kelly; as well as 17 great
grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sister, Donna Rae Hartweg, her brother, Gene
Hartweg, and her grandson, Micah Anders.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at Ferris Christian Church in Ferris, IL
with burial to follow at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. A visitation will be held the night before, August 25,
2023, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with family meeting friends from 4 – 7 pm. Memorials may be made
out to Ferris Christian Church, Christianville Foundation, or Christ’s Freedom for Haiti. Printy Funeral Home is
handling arrangements.

Daniel D. Kinman, 67, of Nauvoo, passed away Thursday, August 10, 2023, at his home.

Daniel was born January 4, 1956, in Ft. Madison, Iowa, the son of Donald and Patti Jo (Carter) Kinman.  He graduated from Nauvoo High school in 1974.   He was employed by Shaeffer Pen, TG&Y and the Nauvoo Antique mall.  He loved music and had run the sound boards for several local bands.  He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs and had a passion for Indian artifacts.

Daniel is survived by his nephews, Jason (Amanda Donahue) Kinman and Joshua Kinman; and cousins Marsha Carter and Kathy Robertson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Michael J. Kinman.

Private family services will be held.  Memorials may be directed to Printy Funeral for funeral expenses.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Carol Rae Shay, 78, of Carthage, passed away Tuesday morning, August 15, 2023,
at Memorial Hospital in Carthage.
Carol was born February 24, 1945, the daughter of Raymond J. and Wilma M.
(Wachtendorf) Martens in Keokuk, Iowa. On January 7, 1966, she was united in
marriage to Franklin Allen Shay. He survives. Carol was an active member of the
Immanuel Lutheran Church near Basco and H.U.G.S of Hancock County. She
enjoyed quilting with her church group and especially loved chasing down her
grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was employed at Methode
Electronics for over thirty-five years in Carthage, from its opening until her
retirement.
Carol is survived by her husband, Allen, of Carthage; two daughters, Melissa
(Mike) Hopp of Burlington, Iowa and Joella (Jim) Brown of Edmond, Oklahoma;
grandchildren Jeremy Hopp, Brianna Zutz, Shayla McIntyre and Evan, McKenzie
and Benjamin Brown; great grandchildren Isaac, Emily and Eric Hopp and Michael
and Jameson McIntyre; and a sister, Leona Mapes of Williamsburg, VA.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Immanuel
Lutheran Church near Basco with burial to follow in the Immanuel Lutheran
Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday evening from 3:00 – 7:00 PM at Printy Funeral
Home in Carthage with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Memorials
may be directed to H.U.G.S. of Hancock County. Printy Funeral Home in Carthage
is in charge of arrangements.

Donald Lee “Amie” Ament, 84, of Sutter, passed away Thursday, August 10, 2023, at 10:55 PM at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Donald was born July 21, 1939, the son of Virgil and Erma (Altheide) Ament in Keokuk, Iowa.  He attended Warsaw High School, graduating in 1957.  On July 3, 1960, he was united in marriage to Patricia Joann Rutledge at the Lima Federated Church.  Donald was a life-long truck driver and farmer.  He was a member of the Parkview Bible Church in Hamilton.

Donald is survived by his wife, Patricia, of Sutter; two daughters, Tricia White of Sutter and Annette Kuchar of Quincy; grandchildren, Patricia Joann “PJ” (Shaun) Parker, Rae Lynn (Jason) Overhulser, Kathleen (fiancé, Zachary McBeth) Kuchar, and Megan (Kyle) Boggs; great grandchildren, Kegan Davis, Harrison Parker, Grace Parker, Kinzey Overhulser, and Brooklyn Boggs; siblings, Ruth (Randy) Nichols of Rushville and Jean Bowman of Quincy; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Alice Rousch.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with burial to follow in the Bethany United Church of Christ Cemetery in Tioga.  Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 PM Tuesday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.  Memorials may be directed to the Parkview Bible Church in Hamilton.  Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Luka Edward Haist

July 20, 2023- August 4, 2023

     Luka Edward Haist, beloved son of Tabitha Thomas and Audrick Haist passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

     He was born July 20, 2023 in Iowa City and welcomed by his parents, Tabitha and Audrick of Keokuk, paternal grandparents, Amy and Chance Nye of Keokuk and Terry and Christina Haist of Cuba, MO, maternal grandfather, Glenn Thomas of Hamilton, IL, aunts and uncles, Carter Nye, Daniel Thomas, Tyler Bolden, Katlyn Schwartz, Bailey Haist, Lora Perry and Riley Haist.  Other survivors include paternal great-grandparents, Sandra Haist, Barb and Bill Sloop, Chad and Gina Nye, Mary and Bill Major and maternal great-grandmother, Louise Morehouse and his four-legged companion, Duke, who never left his side.

     He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Tina Morehouse, maternal great-grandfather, Floyd Morehouse and maternal great-grandmother, Lucille Thomas and his uncle, Lucas Nye.

     Luka brought immeasurable joy and boundless love into their lives during his brief time of knowing him.

     A private family service will be held.

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Lydia I. McHugh, 90, of Carthage passed away at her home on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 4:51 PM.

Lydia was born November 15, 1932, the daughter of August and Maria (Fularczyk) Bisha in Reda, Poland.  She met Robert L. McHugh during his military service time in Germany and on March 26, 1955, they were united in marriage.  She was lovingly known as the “Household Executive” by her family.

Lydia is survived by her three children, two grandchildren, one brother and one sister. 

No services are planned at this time. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.  

The McHugh family would like to thank the caregivers at Blessing Hospice for the exceptional care that Lydia received.

Karen Marie Real

1943-2023

     Karen Marie Real, 80 of Keokuk, IA died Friday, August 4, 2023 at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington, IA.

     She was born March 1, 1943 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of William and Irene Fisher Case.  Karen graduated from Baldwin Park High School in Baldwin, Park. CA with the class of 1960.

     Karen was first united in marriage to Jimmy Parks.  They later divorced.  On June 6, 1986 Karen was united in marriage to Robert Real.  He survives.

     Other survivors include two daughters, Deanna Keener (Darrell) of Billings, MO and Sheila Parks of Yulee, FL, three step-children, Mike Real, Carol Mortimer and Peggy Boulton and one granddaughter, Cassie Watts.  She is also survived by two sisters, Carol Markell of Argyle, IA and Cheryl Shipley (Skeet) of Revere, MO and four brothers, William “Sonny” Case of Ave, MO, Allan Case of Argyle, IA, Raymond, Case (Evonne) of Argyle, IA and Shawn Case (Debbie) of Argyle, IA and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, one step-daughter, Roberta Stephenson, one brother-in-law, Pete Markell and three sisters-in-law, Norma Case, Kathy Case and Shirley Case.

     Karen had first been employed by the Chuck Wagon, then Keokuk Steel Castings and lastly by KOKX Radio, all in Keokuk.

     Karen was an avid reader.  The casino was a place where Karen found excitement with trying her luck with games of chance.  She enjoyed playing Bingo and games on her IPad. 

     A Gathering of Remembrance will be held from 5-7 p.m., Monday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with family meeting with friends at that time.

     Memorials may be made to Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Sharon Kay Huls, 77, of Bentley, passed away at her home Sunday evening, July 30, 2023.

She was loved and respected by many throughout her career.  She first worked at Shellor Globe for twenty-five years.  Then she attended college at SCC in Keokuk and Burlington, Iowa.  Then started her career as Administrative Secretary of the business department.  She also taught some business courses.

After retirement, her, and the love of her life, Clifford A. Huls went of many adventures.  They loved to travel.  They were both into shooting clay birds, with Clifford winning many championships.

She is survived by her daughter Shari (Bill) Johnson; sons, Roger (David) Bullard and Jeff (Karen) Bullard; adopted son, Stan (Laura) Jones; also Clifford’s daughters, Cheryl (Brian) Gaines, Julie (Brad) Walker, Rhonda (Steve) Vinyard and Teresa (Myron) Leenerts; last count was nineteen grandchildren and over twenty-five great grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Vernon and Dennis Huls; sister-in-law, Lorna Plowman; and also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford A. Huls; a daughter, Mitzi Jane Bullard; a sister, Mary Heevner; her mother, Mary Sullivan; and her fathers, Charles Sullivan and Warren Hagmeier.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, August 7, 2023, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery near Basco.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until time of services at 11:00 at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to the Immanuel Lutheran Church near Basco.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Melody Ann Riter

1947-2023

     Melody Ann Riter, 76 of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

     She was born June 3, 1947 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Everett Sr. and Dorothy Page Frueh.  Melody graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1965 and attended Southeastern Community College. 

     On September 5, 1980, Melody was united in marriage to Joe Riter in Keokuk.  He survives.

     Other survivors include five nieces, Joy Jairl of Keokuk, Rebecca Kaylyn (Joe) of Las Vegas, NV, Wendy Canida (Mike) of Keokuk, Amanda Dailing and Jenny Ross (Jamie) of Kahoka, MO, and two nephews, Randy Frueh of Ames, IA and Jeff Johnson (Christy) of Aylett, VA.  She is also survived by numerous great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins and a special sister-in-law, Katie Downey of Kahoka, MO.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Sherry Jairl, one brother, Everett “Butch” Frueh, Jr., one sister-in-law, Betty Riter and one nephew, Brian Jairl.

     Melody had been employed by several local businesses through the years, including Thomas Trucking, A&W Restaurant, Dryden, Keokuk Steel Castings, Southeastern Community College and lastly by the City of Keokuk as an assistant to the City Clerk, until her retirement in 1997.

     She was a member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and the Keokuk Racers Reunion.  Melody was also a faithful member of New Testament Christian Church and taught Sunday School for many years.

     Melody enjoyed bowling and won a state championship.  She found joy in life’s simplest pleasures.  She had a passion for shopping, especially for purses and her travels to Florida brought her many cherished memories.  Melody found solace in the pages of books and had a deep love for animals.

      A funeral service will be held at 12 noon, Monday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Joy Jairl officiating.  Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.  

     Visitation will be held prior to the service, Monday, from 10 a.m.-12 noon at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.

     Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or ASPCA Guardian or to the City of Christmas.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Teresa Marie Madden

1954-2023

     Teresa Marie was born July 5, 1954 in Peoria Illinois, the oldest daughter of Dorothy Casey (Bradfield). 

     Teresa graduated from Warsaw High School in 1972, she then went on to marry Robert Holmes in July 1975. Jessica Renae was born in June 1976 and Jennifer Diana in February 1978.  Teresa and Robert were united in marriage until 1978. 

     When she met Kevin Madden, little did she know, he would become her very best friend and father of their daughter, Juel Marie, in December 1987. Kevin and Teresa were best friends for a whopping 37 years when she finally…literally finally…said YES to marrying him. They were then not only each other’s soul mate but also husband and wife when they married on April 15, 2015. 

     Teresa had a passion and drive for work like none other and she instilled that same mentality in her children. She held several positions to help support her family through the years. Her most favorite position, other than wife, mom, and mam-ma, was working at South End Plant & Produce (A greenhouse) in Quincy Illinois. A lot of people know her for her love of plants. Her love of plants mixed with her free-spirited heart would lead her to cut “starts” from plants in others’ yards and even pull over on the side of the road to grab a few to plant at home. The memories attached to those moments are everlasting and you bet she knew that. Her yard was adorned with multiple plant beds and fruit trees as well as a decent-sized garden so she had plenty to share with the family and neighbors. 

     Teresa thoroughly enjoyed baking, arts and crafts, especially with the grandchildren. She loved to decorate for the holidays and not just for herself, but for all the people who would visit her home. She loved preparing a meal that would feed an army just so her family had plenty and in case extras showed up. In recent years, she would make extra plates for the neighbors who didn’t have family. She absolutely loved the holidays and wanted others to share that love with her through food and decorations. 

     Teresa had a very free spirit and enjoyed traveling. She loved riding on the Harley with Kevin, as his Shotgun Rider, on countless road trips. Feeling the wind in her hair and the smell of fresh air was one of her favorite things to do. They shared many rides and she lit up every time she talked about it. She enjoyed music, especially The Beatles, Janis Joplin, and Tina Turner. Seeing Tina Turner in concert was one of her favorite stories to tell. 

     She had a passion for her family and wanted them around as often as possible. She enjoyed the constant love and teasing from her daughters’, “step-in” son, Michael, and her sons-in-law. Although this would often frustrate her, she would then remember that “A child is one of the greatest gifts the world has to offer”. We would all love to tell you who the “favorite” is, including the sons-in-law but we all know her love for all of us was the same. 

     She loved to spend time camping and would go all out with it! You can guarantee you were still getting three meals freshly cooked for you even out in the woods. Teresa loved attending her children's and grandchildren's ball games, and man, was she proud of her family! You could hear her at any game cheering on her children and grandchildren. She also loved the nachos with jalapeños so it was always a win-win for her! There was never a time she didn’t jump at the opportunity to spend time with her family. Her grandchildren were one of the many lights in her eyes. 

     The Mississippi River holds a very special place in her heart. She spent many days making a lot of memories with her family there through the years. “Rolling on the River” is where you’ll find her spirit these days. 

     To know Teresa Marie was to know love. As Tina Turner put it, she was “Simply The Best”. 

     Teresa Marie Madden went up to the place that’s the best and became “The Spirit In The Sky” on July 23, 2023 at home in the arms of her husband and best friend. 

     Survived by her husband, Kevin Madden of Centerview MO, children, Jessica (Chris) Nemeskal of Wichita, KS, Jennifer Holmes of Centerview, MO, Juel (David) Martin of Branson, MO, and Michael (Amanda) Guthrie of Holt’s Summit, MO.  Grandchildren, Brendon (Fallon) Gosnell, Jaydon Gosnell, Dalton Martin, Julian Madden, Lillian-Grace Martin, and great-grandchild, to-be Kynlee Jaymes Gosnell.  Her sisters, Donna Sue Skidmore, Terri Kay Guthrie, Diana Pauline Robinson, newly found sister, Martie Vacek and brother, Dewayne Edward Bradfield.  Her uncle Edward and wife Lydia Casey. As well as countless cousins, nieces and nephews.

     Proceeded in death by her brother, Richard Alvin Guthrie, sister, Deborah Norene Guthrie, her mother, Dorothy Bradfield, uncle, Bill Casey, uncle, James Casey, aunt, Charlotte, and grandmother Norene Gordon.

     When you hear the songs “Proud Mary”, “Spirit in the Sky” and “Shotgun Rider”, we hope you think of Teresa Marie Madden. 

~Storms never stop nor do the rainbows~

     A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 5th, 2023 Vigen Memorial Home, 

278 W. Main St., Kahoka, MO at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Dean Graber officiating.   

     A celebration of life to follow in Alexandria, Missouri on Hanley Street at 2 pm. Bring your favorite story, side dish, and chair. All are welcome! 

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com