Megan "Meme" Leigh Johnston, 46, of Mapleton passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha.
    Megan Leigh was born on May 17, 1979, in Sioux City, the daughter of Earl and Julie (Smith) Johnston. She grew up in Mapleton and graduated from Maple Valley High School with the class of 1997. She furthered her education at Western Iowa Tech Community College and obtained an Associate Childhood degree. Megan was an Associate Teacher for Head Start in Onawa and then became the Associate Teacher for Head Start in Mapleton. She worked for Head Start for twenty-five years. She enjoyed working with kids and was very dedicated to them.
    Megan's pride and joy was having her daughter, Josie. Family meant the world to her! Some of her interests were: listening to music, watching movies, arts and crafts, drawing, reading, "Mountain Dew", and anything Disney. Megan taught Sunday School and Bible School for many years. Her passion was NASCAR and go kart racing, especially watching her niece Brianna #Z62, Meme never missed a race!!
    Survivors include her daughter, Josie Lynn Johnston of Mapleton; parents, Earl and Julie (Smith) Johnston of Mapleton; grandmother Marjorie (Carlson) Smith of Mapleton; two sisters, Wendy (Mike Elton) Johnston of Sloan and Sarah Johnston of Hinton; nieces, Brianna Mitchell of Omaha, Becca (Josh Victor) Mitchell of Omaha, Ava Lee of Sloan, and Karly Stolen of Hinton; her loving pets, dog, Winnie and cats, Tiger and Zoey; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
    She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Max Smith; paternal grandparents, Lloyd and Carrie (Skow) Johnston; infant niece, Lynn Mitchell; a special aunt, Margaret "Maggie" Ann Maynard; and two loving dogs, Nala and Sassy.
    A funeral service was held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Goslar Funeral Home Chapel, Onawa,with Jeff Thelander officiating. Those in attendance were asked to wear anything purple, Disney, Racing, or comfy clothes in honor of Megan. A live stream of the service was posted on the Goslar Funeral Home website with Megan's obituary. Burial followed in the Little Sioux Township Cemetery in Smithland.
    A visitation was held on Monday, June 30, 2025 with a prayer service at the Goslar Chapel in Onawa with Darren C. E. Goslar, officiating.
    Arrangements were under the direction of Goslar Funeral Home and Monuments, Onawa. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.goslarfuneralhome.com

    Marshall Sohm, age 85, of Danbury passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Maple Heights Nursing Home of Mapleton.
    A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Danbury. Father William A. McCarthy and Father Andy Sohm will officiate. Committal Services will follow in the Danbury Catholic Cemetery of Danbury with Military Rites conducted by Carlson-Frum Post #336 of the American Legion of Danbury.
    Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Vigil Service held at 7:00 p.m., on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Danbury.
    The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
    A complete obituary will be published next week.

    Vicki Ann Schwarz, age 63, of Anthon passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at her residence.
    A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Anthon. Father Michael Erpelding will officiate. Committal services will follow in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery of Anthon.
    A Visitation will be held one-hour prior to the service from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 3, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Anthon.
    The Armstrong-Van Houten Funeral Home of Anthon is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
    Vicki Ann Schwarz, the daughter of Rene and Donna (Kleber) LaFleur, was born on September 14, 1961, in Sioux City. She grew up in the Jefferson, SD, area. Once she was finished with her schooling, Vicki moved to Mexico where she worked as a housekeeper for a year before returning to Sioux City.
    On July 3, 1982, Vicki was united in marriage to the love of her life, Walter D. Schwarz, in the Cathedral of the Epiphany Catholic Church of Sioux City. The couple were blessed with three children: Keane, Celine, and Devon. The family lived in Sioux City, Arkansas, and Spirit Lake, before making their forever home in Anthon.
    Throughout her lifetime, Vicki was employed as a lab technician at Vision Optical, waitressed at Truck Haven, was an EMT/Security Guard at the Argosy Casino, and most recently worked at Casey's in Correctionville. Vicki also served as a volunteer EMT on the Anthon Rescue Squad and was a caregiver for her mother when she became unable to care for herself.
    Family was the most important thing to Vicki; she especially enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren. She loved to decorate and celebrate the holidays with Easter and Christmas being her favorite. In her free time Vicki enjoyed hunting turkey and deer, helping her husband tend to his garden, and collecting angels. She also enjoyed spending time with her best friend, Carol Hall. She was very proud she returned to her Catholic faith and was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Anthon. Vicki will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved her.
    Left to cherish her memory include her children Keane (Laura) Schwarz of Mapleton, Celine (Christian) Krewson of Bellevue, NE and Devon Schwarz of Anthon; grandchildren: Devon A. Schwarz, Aryanna Sunshine Schwarz, Emma Schwarz, Kahlil Schwarz, Sebastian Krewson, Tristian Krewson, and Jillian Krewson; brothers Todd (Monica) LaFleur of Berlin, Germany and Tim LaFleur of St. Paul, MN; sisters Angela Scott of Florida, Jane Evert of Rochester, MN, and Linda Lampson of Sioux City; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
    Vicki was preceded in death by her parents Rene and Donna LaFleur; husband Walter Schwarz (joining him now in Heaven since his passing in 2023); and brother Toby LaFleur.

    Marnis Irene Petersen, age 89, of Anthon passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospital of Sioux City.
    Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Anthon.
    A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran-Midway Church in rural Battle Creek. Rev. Marty Davis will officiate. Committal Services will follow in St. Paul Lutheran-Midway Cemetery in rural Battle Creek.
    The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Anthon is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
    Marnis Irene Petersen, the daughter of Henry Sr. and Ann (Stolley) Schwarz, was born on October 16, 1935, in Sioux City. She grew up on a farm northeast of Climbing Hill and graduated with the Class of 1953 from Climbing Hill High School.
    After graduation, Marnis went on to attend Westmar College in Le Mars. On a special Fourth of July, her brother set her up on a date with a Navy man named Benjie Petersen who quickly became the love of her life. That first spark led to a lifelong love story. Marnis and Benjie were married on November 14, 1955, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Climbing Hill.
    They made their home on a farm east of Anthon where they raised their family and shared a beautiful life together. Marnis and Benjie were blessed with four children: Benjie, Jeffrey, Michael, and Marnie.
    Marnis was never one to shy away from hard work. She rolled up her sleeves and worked right alongside Benjie in the fields and around the farm. Whether she was out driving a tractor or cooking up a hot meal for the crew, she did it with heart. Her cooking and baking were always a hit—no one ever left her table hungry. She was a true go-getter and the kind of person who was always ready to listen, pitch in, and lift others up.
    Faith was a cornerstone of Marnis's life. She was deeply involved at St. Paul's Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School to the pre-K children and helped organize countless church programs and Vacation Bible School events over the course of 50 years. Her service didn't stop there—she was also active in the funeral committee, the mission quilting group, LWML, and so many other areas. If something needed doing, Marnis was there, giving her time and energy with grace and joy.
    She also loved volunteering at Mission Central, where she helped with luncheons and banquets. She treasured the opportunity to serve the Lord and others, always with a smile on her face.
    Outside of her church and volunteer work, Marnis had a zest for life. She and Benjie loved to go ballroom dancing with their circle of dance friends. She was also an avid card player, enjoyed her Friday lunch outings with the ladies, and absolutely cherished time spent with her grandchildren, family, and friends.
    Marnis's legacy lives on through her children: Benjie "Bryan" (Sharon) of Glencoe, OK, Jeffrey (Cindy) of Moville, Michael (Marilynn) of Danbury, and Marnie (Corey) of Sioux City. Her grandchildren—Scott Bockelman, Eli Petersen, Melissa Petersen, Jake (Roxy) Hannah, Benjie J. Petersen, Isaac (Stacey) Petersen, Theo (Emily) Fundermann III, Melanie Honsbruch, Tiffanie Honsbruch, Lindsie Honsbruch, Whitney Honsbruch, Tom (Shawna) Dennison, Tiffany Wood, and Tanya Dennison—along with her 21 great-grandchildren, will carry her memory forward with love.
    She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters Norma Martens of Spirit Lake and Mary Wichelt of Cozad, NE; sister-in-law Martha (Donald) Hanson of Denver, CO; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
    Marnis was preceded in death by her parents Henry Sr. and Ann Schwarz; beloved husband Benjie B. Petersen; brother Henry "Hank" Schwarz; sister-in-law Lillian Schwarz; brothers-in-law Stan Wichelt and Wilber Martens; nephews Marty Martens, Rodrick Martens, and W. David Martens.
    Her life was one of faith, family, friendship, and service. She will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

    Kyle Schoenherr, 53, of Onawa passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025.
    A funeral mass was held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025, at St. John Catholic Church in Onawa with Father Richard D. Ball officiating. Visitation was held prior to the Mass. A live stream of the service was posted on the Goslar Funeral Home website with Kyle's obituary. Burial was held at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at Danbury.
    Arrangements are under the direction of Goslar Funeral Home and Monuments, Onawa.
    Kyle was born on November 16, 1971, in Sioux City, the son of Jerry and Susan (Handke) Schoenherr. Kyle attended Danbury Catholic school and graduated from Maple Valley High School with the class of 1990. He continued his education at Western Iowa Tech for Diesel Mechanic.
    Kyle was a long-standing diesel mechanic in this area for many years. He was known for his hard work and dedication. He shared his passion by teaching others his skills.
    Kyle was a devout Catholic. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, music, motorcycles, and spending time with his family and his grandchildren. Kyle was very kind and loved helping other people.
    Survivors include his significant other, Jodi Ann Samuelson of Onawa; children Amanda Schoenherr, Emily (Gabe) Peters, Lakkin (Dustin) Schoenherr, John (Grace) Rahilly, and Wyatt (Kaylee) Schoenherr; grandchildren, S'rynniti Hightower, Leyla Hightower, and Swae Hightower, Lyrek Wiig, Harmony Franklin, Dante Rodriguez; parents, Jerry and Susan Schoenherr; brother, Kirtus (Doris) Schoenherr; sister, Kera Morgan; and many other relatives and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, John and Anna Schoenherr; maternal grandparents, Lonnie and Edna Handke; brother-in-law, Phillip Morgan; son-in-law, Pierre Hightower; and great-nephew, Eli Parker.
    In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kyle's memory may be given to the family.
    Condolences may be left online for the family at www.goslarfuneralhome.com

    Mass of Christian Burial for Kelly J. Croghan was held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manning with Rev. Michael Cronin officiating. Musicians were Organist Anne Muhlbauer and Sacred Heart Choir, as well as Vocalists Rachel White, Amy Croghan and Michelle Drees. Emmett and Wesley Reischl and Bill Muhlbauer were Mass servers. Taylor Croghan and JoAnn Martens were readers. Jessica Croghan, Sara Langel, and grandchildren Vivian, Miles and Memphis were gift bearers. Nancy Croghan and Pete Croghan were Eucharistic ministers. Pallbearers were John Croghan, Brandon Croghan, Brian Croghan, Shawn Croghan, Jason Croghan, Steve Croghan, Boone Lord and Nick Croghan. Honorary Pallbearers were MaKayla Lord, Kaitlin Croghan, Jennifer White and grandchildren Vivian, Miles and Memphis. Burial was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Manning.
    A Visitation with family greeting friends was held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, also at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manning.
    Memorials may be directed to Woodbury County EMS or Iowa Donor Network in Kelly J. Croghan's name.
    Kelly Joseph Croghan, the firstborn son of John Joseph and Mary (Wieland) Croghan, was born on April 1, 1970, in Lake City. He grew up in Manning and graduated with the Class of 1988.
    Following high school, Kelly attended Iowa Central College in Fort Dodge, earning his degree in Food Marketing Management in 1990. On September 28 of that same year, he married "his girl" and high school sweetheart, Brenda Martens, at Sacred Heart Church in Manning. Together they were blessed with three children: John, MaKayla and Brandon.
    Kelly began his career as a meat department manager at Lee Town Foods in Des Moines. In 1993, he started working at Ag Processing Inc. in Manning. In 2007, his job brought him to Sergeant Bluff where he remained with the company until his retirement on December 31, 2024—culminating a dedicated 31-year career. After relocating to Sergeant Bluff, Kelly and his family eventually settled in Sloan and later moved to an acreage outside of Oto in 2018.
    A devoted family man, Kelly loved nothing more than spending time with his loved ones. He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in fishing, hunting, camping, and simply being with family and friends. A favorite getaway was Okoboji, where he especially loved fishing for walleye. For Kelly, a "good day" meant being outdoors with the people he loved.
    He will be remembered for his generous spirit—always giving, never asking for anything in return—and for the deep love he had for his family and his grandchildren who affectionately called him "Papa."
    Kelly passed away on June 1, 2025, at MercyOne Hospital in Sioux City at the age of 55. In keeping with his generous spirit, he was a proud donor through the Iowa Donor Network.
    He was preceded in death by his father, John Croghan; stepfather, Robert Kruse; paternal grandparents, Joseph and Margaret Croghan; maternal grandparents Norbert and Margaret Wieland; uncles, Bill Croghan, Gene Croghan, Bernard Wieland, Larry Wieland and Leonard Wieland.
    Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 34 years, Brenda Croghan of Oto; children: John (Kaitlin) Croghan of Sloan, MaKayla (Boone) Lord of Des Moines and Brandon (Nick) Croghan of Omaha; three grandchildren: Vivian, Miles and Memphis; mother, Mary Kruse (friend Al) of Massena; parents-in-law, James and JoAnn Martens of Manning; siblings: Brian (Stacie) Croghan of Templeton, Shawn (Kathy) Croghan of Des Moines, Jason (Amy) Croghan of Kansas City, and Jennifer White (Volkan Soyulmaz) of Englewood, FL; step-siblings: Shary (Al) Arkfeld of Dow City, LuAnne (Arlan) Sandvik of Napomo, CA, and Lynn Kruse of Manning; Brenda's brothers: Richard (Lisa) Martens of Ames, Randy (JoAnn) Martens of Nebraska City, and Ryan (Laura) Martens of Niceville, FL; many extended family members and friends.
    Ohde Funeral Home, Manning, assisted the family with arrangements. www.ohdefuneralhome.com

    James "Jim" Peters, 83, of Mapleton passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his family.
    A funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Goslar Funeral Home Chapel in Onawa with Darren C. E. Goslar, officiating. The family requested for those attending the service to please wear casual attire, Harley Davidson, or Iowa Hawkeye clothing. A livestream of the service was be posted on the Goslar Funeral Home website with Jim's obituary. Burial followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Mapleton with Military Honors provided by the United States Navy and the Loren Hollister American Legion Post #496 of Mapleton. Those attending the service on motorcycle were encouraged to help lead the procession. A luncheon followed the burial at the Mapleton Community Center.
    Visitation was held on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Goslar Chapel in Onawa.
    Arrangements were under the direction of Goslar Funeral Home and Monuments, Onawa.
    James Henry was born on October 13, 1941, in Danbury, the son of Henry and Olive (Sharkey) Peters. Jim grew up in Danbury and graduated from Danbury Catholic in 1960. Jim served in the United States Navy from July 27, 1960 and was honorably discharged July 24, 1964.
    Jim and Carol Treiber were united into marriage, and to this union two children were born, Jimmy and Missy. The couple later divorced.
    Jim and Dixie Bell were united into marriage on December 30, 1978 in Elk Point, SD.
    Jim was a heavy equipment operator and worked for various construction places including: Treiber Construction in Danbury, Anderson Construction in Mapleton, J & J Construction, Goodburn Construction in Cushing, and with Gary Schumacher until his retirement. Jim loved spending time with all of his family, especially attending his grandchildren's activities. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, riding motorcycles, woodworking, and playing cards. Jim loved to socialize and always found the best bar for good food and cold beer!
    He was a member of the Loren Hollister American Legion Post #496 of Mapleton.
    Survivors include his loving wife of forty-six years, Dixie Peters; children Jimmy (Jodi) Peters, Melissa Lantz, and Chad (Tracy) Bell; grandchildren Jay Peters, Jon Peters, Elizabeth (Kristopher) Nelson, Matthew Lantz, Brady (Tasha) Bell, and Kalie (Austin) Petersen; great-grandchildren Macie Bell, Hayden Bird, Lily Bird, Greyson Broer, Gracelynn Bird, Hudson Petersen, Asher James Nelson and Ellie Jean Nelson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Olive (Sharkey) Peters; three sisters, Helen Briggle, Barbara Franzkowiak, and Betty Edkin; parents-in-law, Marion and Leona Bell; and brother-in-law, Eddie Bell.
    Condolences may be left online for the family at www.goslarfuneralhome.com