Charlotte Bothwell Forsen

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown was born November 6, 1921, in Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA, and died November 7, 2008, in Colorado Springs, El Paso Co., CO, at age 87. Buried in Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Denver Co., CO. He is the son of Leon Wickware Brown and Irene Fay Chalfant.

Charlotte Bothwell Forsen was born April 8, 1928, in Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA, and died February 25, 2023, at Deerfield Retirement Community, Urbandale, Polk Co., IA, at age 94. Interred in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA. She is the daughter of Karl Johan (Carl John) Forsen of Umes, Sweden, and Mary Elizabeth Bothwell of Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA.

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown and Charlotte Bothwell Forsen were married June 7, 1951, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, City of Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA.

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) Brown had no children.

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) Brown were divorced December 8, 1951, in Iowa City, Johnson Co., IA.

Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) Brown then married (2) Richard Clark "Rit" Turner.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner was born September 30, 1927, in Methodist Hospital, City of Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, and died September 28, 1986, at his home, West Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, at age 58. Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA. He is the son of Joe Woodward Turner of Avoca Twp., Pottawattamie Co., IA, and Elizabeth Haughawout Clark of the City of Allegheny, Allegheny Co., PA.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) Brown were married November 30, 1957, in St. John's Lutheran Church, Council Bluffs, IA.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) (Turner) had three children:

  1. Joseph "Joe" Turner: Born about 1960, in Council Bluffs, IA. Married to Kim Unknown.
  2. Amy Elizabeth Turner: Born January 31, 1961, in Council Bluffs, IA. Married May 21, 1988, in Iowa, to Blair Cameron Reid: Born July 17, 1953, in Unknown. Divorced. Amy Elizabeth (Turner) Reid then married (2) about 1989, in Iowa, to John Gregory "Greg" Fox: Born January 29, 1955, in Janesville, Rock Co., WI; Died June 17, 2022, in 2022, in Clive, Polk Co., IA (age 67). John Gregory "Greg" Fox was first married July 10, 1976, at Shueyville United Methodist Church, to Kimberly Ann Barnes: Born October 17, 1957, in Cedar Rapids, IA; Died August 3, 2002, at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, Marion Co., IN (age 44). Buried in Newport Township Cemetery, Johnson Co., IA. Kimberly Ann (Barnes) Fox then Married (2) to Gerry Jude Gogel: Born October 21, 1956, in Unknown.
  3. Mark Howard Turner: Born September 3, 1963, in Council Bluffs, IA; Died February 28, 1998, at University Hospitals, Iowa City, IA (age age 34). Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA. Never Married.

Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) Turner then married (3) 1993 to Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird was born January 16, 1927, in Sidney, Fremont Co., IA, and died June 5, 2015, at Deerfield Retirement Community, Urbandale, Polk Co., IA, at age 88. Interred in Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Van Meter Twp., Chickasaw Co., IA. He is the son of Unknown.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird was first married to Bonnie Ethelda McGeeney.

Bonnie Ethelda McGeeney was born August 11, 1931, in Kansas, and died April 24, 2013, in Southfield, Oakland Co., MI, at age 81. She is the daughter of Louis Dennis McGeeney of Lillis, Marshall Co., KS, and Nellie Whorton of Morris, Seward co., KS.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Bonnie Ethelda McGeeney were married June 30, 1956, at Central Presbyterian Church, Des Moines, Polk Co., IA.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Bonnie Ethelda (McGeeney) Laird had two children:

  1. Timothy R. "Tim" Laird: Born March 12, 1957, in Unknown. Lived in Louisville, KY. Married to Lori Nicole Dow: Born October 8, 1967, in Unknown.
  2. Meri Dean "Chatty" Laird: Born August 22, 1962, in Des Moines, Polk Co., IA; Died May 3, 2023, in Boyne City, Charlevoix Co., MI (age 60). Cremated. Married January 2, 2003, in Jamaica, to Lynn Jones: Born Unknown.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Bonnie (McGeeney) Laird were divorced about 1970 in Des Moines, Polk Co., IA.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) Turner were married June 29, 1993, in Des Moines, Polk Co., IA.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) (Turner) Laird had no children.

Bonnie Ethelda (McGeeney) Laird then Married (2) about 1993, to Unknown Davidson: Born Unknown.

TIMELINE

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown is buried in Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Denver Co., CO. Thanks to Find-A-Grave for making this image available.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner is buried in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA. Thanks to Find-A-Grave for making this image available.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) (Turner) Laird are interred in Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Van Meter Twp., Dallas Co., IA.

George August Bartelt was born February 18, 1891, in Exira Twp., Audubon Co., IA.

George August Bartelt Birth Record.

Karl Johan "Carl John" Forsen was born August 29, 1896, in Umes, Sweden.

Karl Johan (Carl John) Forsen Birth Record.

Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Bothwell was born November 26, 1897, in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA.

Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Bothwell Birth Record.

Gladys Noel Smith was born December 24, 1899, in Hempstead, Nassau Co., NY.

The 1900 U. S. Census taken on June 18, 1900, shows Rasmus Mickelson (age 57) born February 1843 in Denmark to Danish-born parents and a Naturalized citizen emigrating in 1873 is a Farmer owning his own farm free of a mortgage and living in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA. Living with him is his wife of 38 years, Ameala Mickelson (age 58) born September 1841 in Denmark to Danish-born parents and emigrating in 1873, with 7 of the 8 children born to her still alive. Also living with him are his three children: Viriel Mickelson (age 25) born March 1873 in Massachusetts to Danish-born parents, an unmarried Farm Laborer; Tora Mickelson (age 16) born January 1884 in Iowa to Danish-born parents, unmarried; and Anthone Mikkelson (age 34) born February 1866 in Denmark and a Naturalized citizen emigrating in 1873, a Farmer owning his own farm with a mortgage; Anthone's wife of 10 years, Stena Mikkelson (age 32) born May 1868 in Denmark to Danish-born parents and having emigrated in 1888, with 3 of the 4 children born to her still alive; and Anthone's children, all born in Iowa to Danish-born parents: Sphis Mikkelson (age 6) born October 1893; Sena Mikkelson (age 4) born September 1895; and Harry Mikkelson (age 3) born March 1897. A Boarder also lives in the Household.

The 1900 U. S. Census taken on June 13, 1900, shows Frank Bartell Jr. (age 30) born December 1869 in Illinois to German-born parents is a Tea Company Solicitor renting his home at 815 West 7th Street, 6th Ward, Sioux City, Woodbury Co., IA. Living with him is his wife of 12 years, Edith Bartell (age 29) born April 1871 in England to English-born parents and having emigrated in 1887, with 4 of the 5 children born to her still living. Living with him are his children, all born to Illinois and English-born parents: Frank C. Bartell (age 8) born May 1891 in Iowa; George E. Bartell (age 6) born November 1893 in Nebraska; Carl J. Bartell (age 4) born February 1896 in Iowa; and Freda Bartell (age 1) born September 1898 in Iowa.

The 1900 U. S. Census taken on June 11, 1900, shows Fred Bartell (age 42) born January 1858 in Germany to German-born parents and having immigrated in 1872 and a Naturalized Citizen is a married Farmer owning his farm with a mortgage and is living in Andrew Twp., Audubon Co., IA. Living with him is his wife of 19 years, Elizabeth Bartell (age 39) born November 1860 in Iowa to German-born parents, with all 9 of the children born to her still alive. Also living there are his unmarried children, all born in Iowa to Iowa and German-born parents: Elizabeth Bartell (age 17) born July 1882; Jennie Bartell (age 16) born January 1884; Fred Bartell (age 15) born February 1885; Anna Bartell (age 13) born December 1886; Burtha Bartell (age 11) born November 1888; George Bartell (age 9) born February 1891; Lilly Bartell (age 5) born January 1895; Willy Bartell (age 2) born November 1897; and Charles Bartell (age 1) born May 1899.

The 1905 Iowa State Census shows N. A. Mikkleson is living in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him are: Steania Mikkleson; Sophs Mikkleson; Seana Mikkleson; Harry Mikkleson; Raymond Mikkleson; and Stella Mikkleson.

The 1905 Iowa State Census shows Geo. A. Bartelt (age 14) born in Iowa to Germany and Iowa-born parents, is a Farmer, and is living in Audobon Co., IA.

The 1910 U. S. Census taken on May 9, 1910, shows Nels Anton Mikkleson (age 44) born in Denmark to Danish-born parents having emigrated in 1871 and a naturalized citizen is a General Farmer owning his own farm in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him is his wife of 20 years, Christena Mikkleson (age 42) born in Denmark to Danish-born parents and emigrating in 1885, with 5 of the 6 children born to her still living. Also living at home are their unmarried children, all born in Iowa to Danish-born parents: Sophus Mikkleson (age 17) a Home Farm Laborer; Harry Mikkleson (age 13); Raymond Mikkleson (age 11); and Stella Mikkleson (age 5).

The 1910 U. S. Census taken on April 16, 1910, shows Fred Bartell Jr. (age 25) born in Iowa to German and Iowa-born parents is a married General Farm Farmer renting his farm and is living in Audubon Twp., Audubon Co., IA. Living with him are: his childless wife of 0 years, Alice Bartell (age 21) born in Iowa to Wisconsin and German-born parents; his widowed father, Fred Bartell Sr. (age 51)  born Germany to German-born parents and having immigrated in 1872 and a Naturalized Citizen, who has his Own Income; his unmarried brother, William Bartell (age 13) born in Iowa to German and Iowa-born parents; and his unmarried brother, Charles Bartell (age 11) born in Iowa to German and Iowa-born parents.

Little Sioux, Harrison Co., IA, Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth Grades - 1913. Front row: Burnham Silsby, Lloyd Davis, Paul Cooper, Austen Caldwell. Walter Alton, Rushton Kidder, Maurice Stucker, Lawrence Terry, Lawrence Peasley. Second row: Arthur Northrup, Hazel Terry, Harriet Perley, Marguerite Setchell, Blanche Smith, Opal Strain, Wilma Alton, Pearl Bryan, Harry Pippitt, Harry McAdon, Jim Hunt. Third row: Arl McAdon, Elsie Reed, Ella Setchell, Nellie Robley, Bessie Bothwell, Margaret Jensen, unknown, Ruby Baker. Back row: Winn Conyers, Jesse Northrup, Lena Cross, Elsie Reynolds. Teacher: Miss Minnie Graves. Picture courtesy of Greg Christensen.

Back row: Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Bothwell, and Ethel May Bothwell. Front row: Leona Ethel "Lena" Bothwell, and Bertha Violet Bothwell, Harrison Co., IA, about 1915. Picture courtesy of Greg Christensen.

The 1915 Iowa State Census shows Harry Mikkleson (age 18) born in Iowa to Danish-born parents and having lived in Iowa for 18 years is unmarried and is living in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA.

The 1915 Iowa State Census shows Bessie Bothwell (age 17) born in Iowa to Iowa and Kansas-born parents and having lived in Iowa for 17 years is unmarried and is living in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA.

The 1915 South Dakota State Census shows George Bartelt (age 25) born in Iowa to Iowa-born parents, and with a Common School education, is an unmarried Electrician, and is living in Redfield, 3rd Ward, SD.

   

The WWI Draft Registration Card dated January 5, 1917, shows George Adam Bartelt (age 26) born February 18, 1891, in Audubon Co., IA, is an unmarried Farmer, and is living in Coon Rapids, IA.

   

The WWI Draft Registration Card dated June 5, 1918, shows Carl John Forsen (age 21) born August 29, 1896, in Sweden, is living in Mondamin, IA. His nearest relative is Carl Forsen, Umeo, Sweden.

The 1920 U.S. Census taken on January 9, 1920, shows Thos. Bothwell (age 49) born in Iowa to Pennsylvania and New York-born parents is a Grain Farm Farmer renting his home and is living in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Sarah Bothwell (age 39) born in Kansas to Irish and Virginia-born parents. Also living there are his six unmarried children, all born in Iowa to Iowa and Kansas-born parents: Bessie Bothwell (age 22); Bertha Bothwell (age 17); Leona Bothwell (age 15); Thomas Bothwell Jr. (age 13); and Lloyd Bothwell (age 9). Also living there is his granddaughter, Cleo Mikellsen (age 1-9/12) born in Iowa to Iowa-born parents.

The 1920 U.S. Census taken on January 23, 1920, shows Nels A. Mikkleson (age 54) born in Denmark to Danish-born parents and a naturalized citizen emigrating in 1870 and naturalized in 1876 is a General Farmer with Real Estate worth $8,000 owning his own farm in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him is his wife Christiana Mikkleson (age 50) born in Denmark to Danish-born parents and a naturalized citizen emigrating in 1871 and naturalized in 1890. Also living at home are their unmarried children, all born in Iowa to Danish-born parents: Harry A. Mikkleson (age 22) a General Farm Laborer; Raymon R. Mikkleson (age 20) a Home Farm Laborer; Estella P. Mikkleson (age 16); and Glenn Mikkleson (age 6).

The 1920 U.S. Census taken on January 7, 1920, shows Thos. Bothwell (age 49) born in Iowa to Pennsylvania and New York-born parents is a General Farmer renting his own farm in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Sarah Bothwell (age 39) born in Kansas to Ireland and Virginia-born parents. Also living with him are his unmarried children, all born in Iowa to Iowa and Kansas-born parents: Bessie Bothwell (age 22); Bertha Bothwell (age 17); Leona Bothwell (age 15); Thos. Bothwell, Jr. (age 13); and Lloyd Bothwell (age 9). Also living there is his granddaughter, Cleo Mickellsen (age 1-9/12) born in Iowa to Iowa-born parents.

The 1920 U.S. Census taken on February 9, 1920, shows George Bartelt (age 26) born in Iowa to Germany and Iowa-born parents, is an unmarried Hotel Laborer Servant, and is living on Main Street, Holstein, Griggs Twp., Ida Co., IA.

George Adam Bartelt and Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Bothwell were married March 20, 1920, in Sioux City, Woodbury Co., IA.

George Adam Bartelt and Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Bothwell Marriage Record.

The 1921 Sioux City, IA, City Directory shows George Bartelt (Bessie), lab Federation Constr Co, rms 2301 28th.

Jacob Frederik "Jake" Wahlert Sr. died April 26, 1921, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Will Porter, a mile and a half south of Exeria, Greeley Twp., Audubon Co., IA, at age 56. Buried in Schwenneker (Pleasant Hill) Cemetery, Audubon Co., IA. The cause of death was suicide by hanging.

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown was born November 6, 1921, in Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA.

Thomas F. "Tony" Bartelt was born about 1922 in South Dakota.

Calvin Raymond Mikkleson was born September 2, 1922, in Far Rockaway, Borough of Queens, New York City, NY.

Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) Bartelt received a divorce from George Adam Bartelt due to cruel and inhuman treatment.

George Adam Bartelt and Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) Bartelt Divorce Record.

The 1925 Iowa State Census U.S. Census taken on January 1, 1925, shows Nels Antone Mikkleson (age 58) born in Denmark to Erasmus Mikkleson of Denmark and Turslia Henson of Denmark who were married in Denmark and are not now living, and having lived in the U. S. A. for 54 years and having lived in Iowa for 52 years with 4th grade education owns his home worth $3,500 and is living in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Christine Mikkleson (age 56) born in Denmark to Peter Matheson of Denmark and Christine Matheson of Denmark who were married in Denmark and are not now living, and having lived in the U. S. A. for 39 years and having lived in Iowa for 39 years with 8th grade education. Also living there are his two unmarried sons, both born in Monroe Co., IA to Nels A. Mikkleson (age 58) and Christine Matheson (age 56) who were married in Monroe Co., IA: Raymond Mikkleson (age 24) with an 8th grade education; and Glenn E. Mikkleson (age 12) with a 7th grade education. Others are also living in the household.

The 1925 Iowa State Census U.S. Census taken on January 1, 1925, shows Tony Bartell (age 3) born in Iowa with mother of Bessie Bothwell, born in Iowa, and father of Geo. Bartell, born in Iowa, is living with his aunt, Elizabeth Wahlert, in Greeley, Audubon Co., IA. Leigh Larson note: Elizabeth Wahlert is George Adam Bartelt's married sister, Augusta Elizabeth "Lizzie" Bartelt was married February 11, 1908, in Audubon Co., IA, to Jacob Fredrik "Jake" Wahlert Jr.

The 1925 Iowa State Census taken on January 1, 1925, shows Thos. Bothwell (age 54) and having lived in Iowa for 54 years, is renting his home in Sioux Twp., Monona Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Sara Bothwell (age 44) and having lived in Iowa for 43 years. Also living there are his children: Loyd Elmer Bothwell (age 14) and having lived in Iowa for 14 years; Joseph L. Bothwell (age 4) and having lived in Iowa for 4 years; Josephine L. Bothwell (age 4) and having lived in Iowa for 4 years; and married daughter, Bessie Bartell (age 27) and having lived in Iowa for 27 years. Also living there are Thos.'s two grandchildren: Cleo E. Bartell (age 6) and having lived in Iowa for 6 years with mother of Bessie Bothwell, born about 1898 in Iowa, and father of Geo. Bartelt, born about 1893 in Iowa, who were married in Sioux City, IA; and Thos. F. Bartell (age 3) and having lived in Iowa for 2 years with mother of Bessie Bothwell, born about 1898 in Iowa, and father of Geo. Bartelt, born about 1893 in Iowa, who were married in Sioux City, IA.

The 1925 Iowa State Census U.S. Census taken on January 1, 1925, shows the nephew of Jake Wahlert, Tony Bartell (age 3) born in Iowa with mother of Bessie Bothwell, born in Iowa, and father of Geo. Bartelt, born in Iowa, is living with his aunt, Elizabeth Wahlert (Father of Fred Bartell of Germany and mother of Elizabeth Prohaska of Germany, and husband of Jake Wahlert) in Greeley, Audubon Co., IA. Augusta Elizabeth Bartell (born July 2, 1882, Died June 4, 1970, in Atlantic, IA. Married February 11, 1908, in Audubon, IA, to Jacob Fredrik "Jake" Wahlert Jr. Buried in Exira Cemetery, Exira, Iowa

Leigh Larson note: The above 1925 census reports show Thomas F. "Tony" Bartelt residing in two places.

Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) Bartelt.

Carl John Forsen and Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) Bartelt were married February 28, 1925, in Onawa, Monona Co., IA.

Carl John Forsen and Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) Bartelt Marriage Records.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird was born January 16, 1927, in Sidney, Fremont Co., IA.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird delayed birth record.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner was born September 30, 1927, in Methodist Hospital, City of Des Moines, Polk Co., IA.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner delayed birth record.

Charlotte Bothwell Forsen was born April 8, 1928, in Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA.

Charlotte Bothwell Forsen Birth Record.

The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 3, 1930, shows Jacob Walhert (age 52) born in Illinois to Germany-born parents, and first married at age 30, is a married Stock Farming Farmer, and who owns his farm, and living in Greeley Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him are: his wife, Elizabeth Walhert (age 47) born in Illinois to Germany and Iowa-born parents, and first married at age 25; his unmarried daughter, Mildred Walhert (age 20) born in Iowa to Illinois-born parents;  his unmarried son, Robert Walhert (age 20) born in Iowa to Illinois-born parents; his son, Melvin Walhert (age 13) born in Iowa to Illinois-born parents; and his son, Thomas Walhert (age 8) born in South Dakota to Illinois and Iowa-born parents.

The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 11, 1930, shows John Foreson (age 33) born in Sweden to Swedish-born parents and having emigrated in 1917 and a Naturalized citizen and first married at age 28 is a General Farm Farmer renting his farm and living in Cincinnati Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Bessie Foreson (age 32) born in Iowa to Iowa and Kansas-born parents and first married at age 20. Also living there is his step-daughter, Cleo Foreson (age 12) born in Iowa to Iowa-born parents. Also living there is his daughter, Charlotte Foreson (age 1-11/12) born in Iowa to Swedish and Iowa-born parents. A hired man also lives in the household.

The 1930 U. S. Census taken on May 20, 1930, shows Antone Mikleson (age 64) born in Denmark to Danish-born parents emigrating in 1870 and a naturalized citizen is a widowed General Farmer with Real Estate worth $8,000 owning his own farm in Little Sioux Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him are his two sons, both born in Iowa to Danish-born parents: Rayman Mikleson (age 29), a General Farmer; and Glen Mikleson (age 18), a Public Road Laborer. 

The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 18, 1930 shows Calvin P. Smith (age 51) born in New York to New York-born parents is Railroad Locomotive Engineer first married at age 21 who owns his own home  with real estate worth $7,000 living at 211 Morris Avenue, Inwood, Hempsted Twp., Nassau Co., NY. Living with him is his wife Lillian D. Smith (age 51) born in New York to New York-born parents, who was first married at age 21. Also living in the household is their daughter, Gladys Mikkleson (age 30) born in New York to New York-born parents, who was first married at age 21, and their son-in-law, Harry Mikkleson (age 33) born in Iowa to Danish-born parents, who is a Lineman at an Electric Light Company, who was first married at age 24. The son of Gladys and Harry also lives there: C. Raymond Mikkleson (age 7) born in New York to Iowa and New York-born parents.

The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 18, 1930, shows Ira J. Hapney (age 56) born in Indiana to Kentucky and Indiana-born parents, and first married at age 19, is a married Farming Farmer on a Rented Farm, and is living in Washington Twp., Hyde Co., SD. Living with him are: his wife, Maucey E. Hapney (age 57) born in Indiana to Kentucky-born parents, and first married at age 20; his unmarried son, Ray I. Hapney (age 18) born in Illinois to Indiana-born parents, a Farm Laborer; and an unmarried lodger, George A. Bartelt (age 39) born in Iowa to German-born parents, a Farm Laborer.

Darlene Ellen Meeker was born November 15, 1930, in Magnolia Twp., Harrison Co., IA.

Darlene Ellen Meeker Delayed Birth Record.

John Kenneth Forsen was born July 9, 1931, in Cincinnati Twp., Harrison Co., IA.

John Kenneth Forsen Birth Record.

Jacob Frederik "Jake" Wahlert Jr. died June 24, 1934, in Greeley Twp., Audubon Co., IA, at age 56. Buried in Exira Cemetery, Exira, Audubon Co., IA. The cause of death was suicide by hanging.

Jacob Frederik "Jake" Wahlert Jr. Death Record.

Thomas F. "Tony" Bartelt/Wahlert died about 1934, while attempting to hop on a moving freight train, probably in Iowa, at about age 12.

The 1940 U. S. Census taken on May  13, 1940, shows John C. Forsen (age 43) born in Sweden, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, and having completed 8 years of School, is a married Farmer of a Farm, and who rents his farm, and is living in Cincinnati Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him are: his wife, Bessie Forsen (age 42) born in Iowa, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, and having completed 8 years of School; his daughter, Charlotte Forsen (age 11) born in Iowa, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, and having completed 7 years of School; and his son, John K. Forsen (age 8) born in Iowa, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, and having completed 3 years of School.

The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 6, 1940, shows Calvin Smith (age 61) born in New York and having completed No Entry years of school and 5 years ago was living in the Same House is a Motorman for an Electric Railroad who owns his home worth $3,500 and is living at 311 Morris Avenue, Ironwood, Hempstead Township, Nassau Co., NY. Living with him is his wife, Lillian Smith (age 61) born in New York and having completed 3 years of High School, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House. Also living there are: his daughter, Gladys Smith (age 40) born in New York; his son-in-law, Harry Mikkleson (age 43) born in Iowa and having completed 8 years of School, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, a Trouble Shooter for the Gas and Electric Company; and his grandchild, Calvin Mikkleson (age 17) born in New York and having completed 3 years of 3 High School, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House. ED 30-203, Page 14 of 38.

The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 10, 1940, shows Charles Fuller (age 32) born in Germany, and a Naturalized Citizen, and having completed 2 years of college, and 5 years ago was living in Omaha, Douglas Co., NE, is a Butcher at a Retail Meat Market, and who is renting his home for $18/month, and is living at 307 E. Superior Street, 2nd Ward, City of Missouri Valley, St. John Twp., Harrison Co., IA. Living with him is his wife, Cleo F. Fuller (age 22) born in Iowa and having completed 2 years of High School, and 5 years ago was living elsewhere in Harrison Co., IA.

   

The WWII Draft Registration Card dated April 27, 1942, shows George August Bartelt (age 52) born February 18, 1890, in Audubon Co., IA, works for Dalton Miller of Coon Rapids, Iowa, and is living in Viola, Audubon Co., IA.

Calvin Raymond Mikkleson and Una Mary Cowan were engaged September, 1943.

The Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Brooklyn, NY, Monday, September 27, 1943

Cowan - Mikkleson

Mr. and Mrs. George Cowan of Lawrence have announced the engagement of their daughter, Miss Una Mary Cowan, to C. Raymond Mikkleson, second officer in the merchant marine, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry A. Mikkleson of Inwood. Both Miss Cowan and her fiance were graduated from Lawrence High School. Mr. Mkkleson attended the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy at Fort Schyler.

Harry Anton Mikkleson died August 14, 1945, in August 14, 1945, in the Borough of Queens, NY, at age 48.

The Nassau Daily Review-Star, Hempstead, Long Island, NY, Friday, August 17, 1945

Harry A. Mikkleson

Harry A. Mikkleson, 48, of 311 Morris avenue, Inwood, died Tuesday. He was a member of the J. Franklin Bell post, American Legion, Inwood, and was employed by the Queens Borough Gas and Electric company for 23 years. He resided in Inwood for 25 years. Surviving are his wife, Gladys; a son, Lieutenant Calvin Raymond Mikkleson, U. S. maritime service, and his father, Anton Mikkleson of Iowa.

   

Frederic Leon Brown WWII Draft Registration Report.

The 1950 U. S. Census taken on April 4, 1950, shows Glenn C. Collins  (age 64) born in Iowa, is a married Rural Mail Carrier, and is living  on the S. E. Corner of Block 76, Dallas Center, Dallas Co. IA. Living with him are: his wife, Willetta C. Collins (age 47) born in Illinois; and a never married Lodger, Charlote Forsen (age 21) born  in Iowa, a Kindergarten Teacher in a Public School.

The 1950 U. S. Census taken on April 19, 1950, shows Russ H. Laird (age 23) born in Iowa, is a never married Salesman at a Clothing Store, and is Lodging at 601 N. 16th Street, Lincoln, Lancaster Co., NE.

Frederic Leon Brown and Charlotte Bothwell Forsen were married June 7, 1951, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, City of Missouri Valley, Harrison Co., IA.

The Nonpareil, Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie Co., IA, June 8, 1951

Miss Charlotte Forsen Wed in Lutheran Rites

Mrs. Brown

Miss Charlotte Forsen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John C. Forsen of Modale, la., exchanged nuptial vows with Frederic Leon Brown, son of Mr. Leon Brown of Missouri Valley, in a single ring ceremony Thursday at St. Paul's Lutheran church in Missouri Valley. Miss Forsen has taught kindergarten in the Council Bluffs Public schools the past year. The Rev. John Bruce performed the ceremony in which Mrs. Charles Fuller of Independence, la., sister of the bride, served as matron of honor. She wore a gown of blush pink chantilly lace, fashioned with a fitted bodice and full skirt. Her headpiece was a matching picture hat and she carried a colonial bouquet of flowers. The bride's nieces, the Misses Patty and Beth Fuller of Independence were junior bridesmaids. They wore identical gowns of blue embroidered organdy over taffeta and carried colonial bouquets. The bride's gown of French chantilly lace over satin was fashioned with a stand-up Queen Ann collar and long sleeves. The bouffant hooped skirt was finished in a scalloped hemline over a double pleated nylon net duster. Her Rosepoint lace shoulder length veil fell from a pearl trimmed Juliet cap. She carried a bouquet of white roses, lily-of-the-valley, and stephanotis. Serving as best man was Marion Mikkelson of Missouri Valley. Ushers were J. Kenneth Forsen of Missouri Valley, brother of the bride, and Walter Gearhart of Missouri Valley. Immediately following the ceremony, a reception was held in the church parlors. Guests were served from a table centered with a three-tier cake, decorated in pink and white. Serving were Mrs. Glenn Collins of Dallas Center and Miss Helen Donovan of Council Bluffs Mrs. John Vanman of Missouri Valley had charge of the guest book and Mrs. Fred Bryan of Blencoe and Miss Mary Brown of Burlington presided at the gift table. After a short wedding trip, the couple will be at home in Iowa City, where Mr. Brown is a student in the University of Iowa college of pharmacy.

Frederic Leon Brown and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) Brown were divorced December 8, 1951, in Iowa City, Johnson Co., IA.

Iowa City Press-Citizen, Iowa City, IA, Saturday, December 8, 1951

Frederick L. Brown Granted Divorce in District Court Case

Frederick L. Brown today was granted a divorce in his district court case against Charlotte Brown. He had charged cruel and inhuman treatment. The decree handed down by Judge Harold D. Evans granted the defendant the right to resume her former name of Charlotte Forsen. The two parties, according to the original petition, were married at Missouri Valley June 7 of this year. Attorneys in the case were Hirsch, Riepe, and Wright, of Burlington, for the plaintiff, and Fred E. Egan, for the defendant.

The Nonpareil, Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie Co., IA, May 8, 1955

Visit Little Sioux

LITTLE SIOUX - Pvt. Harry Mikkleson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Mikkleson, and Pvt. Harlan Gahm, son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Gahm, are home on leave from Ft. Bliss, Texas. They just completed basic training.

George Adam Bartelt died January 14, 1956, at Veterans Hospital, Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, at age 64. Buried in Exira Cemetery, Exira, Audubon Co., IA.

The Atlantic News-Telegraph, Atlantic, Cass Co., IA, Saturday, January 14, 1956

George Bartelt Of Exira Dies

EXIRA - George Bartelt, 64, died Friday night at Veterans Hospital in Des Moines. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bartelt. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the Christian church with the Rev. S. R. Wall officiating. Burial will be in the Exira cemetery.

The Atlantic News-Telegraph, Atlantic, Cass Co., IA, Tuesday, January 17, 1956

Rites Held For George Bartelt

EXIRA - Funeral services were held Monday at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the Christian church for George August Bartelt with the Rev. S. R. Wall officiating. Music was by Mrs. Chris Hess, Mrs. Charles Leist, Mrs. S. R. Wall and Mrs. Emmert Christensen. Songs were "Saved by Grace," "Going Down The Valley" "Does Jesus Care" with Ava Nelson at the organ. Casket bearers were Carl, Lester and Ray Schwab, Warren Groke, Joe and Gerald Olson, all nephews. Interment was in the Exira cemetery. Mr. Bartelt is survived by a brother, Charlie Bartelt of Munsey, Ind.; four sisters, Mrs. Will Schwab of Audubon, Mrs. Elizabeth Wahlert of Exira, Mrs. Joe Olson of Eau Claire, Wis., and Mrs. Will Kuehl of Littleton, Colo. His parents, a son, two brothers and a sister preceded him in death. Those attending the funeral from out-of-town were: Mr. and Mrs. Joe Olson and sons of East Elsworth, Wis.; Mr. and Mrs. Will Kuehl and daughter, Mrs. Elsie Davidson of Littleton, Colo.; Warren Grohl, Mr. and Mrs. Lester Schwab and Carl Schwab of Schaller and Ray Schwab of Fort Dodge.

The Bothwell siblings: L to R: Ethel M. (Bothwell) Nelson; Joseph Bothwell; Leona Ellen (Bothwell) Powell; Josephine (Bothwell) Roden; Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) (Bartelt) Forsen; Lloyd Elmer Bothwell; Sarah Ann (Armstrong) Bothwell and Patrick Roden (son of Josephine Bothwell Roden), about 1962. Picture courtesy of Greg Christensen.

   

Thomas "Tom" Bothwell, and Sara (Armstrong) Bothwell, ca. 1943, Iowa. Pictures courtesy of Pat Lynne (Fuller) Doughty.

   

Bessie (Bothwell) Forsen, Patricia Lynne "Patti" Fuller, Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) Fuller, and Sara (Armstrong) Bothwell, ca. 1943, Iowa. Picture courtesy of Pat Lynne (Fuller) Doughty.

Bessie Forsen, Beth Ray, Charlie Doughty, Pat Lynne (Fuller) Doughty, and John Forsen ca. 1979. Picture courtesy of Pat Lynne (Fuller) Doughty.

Bessie Forsen, ca. 1979. Picture courtesy of Pat Lynne (Fuller) Doughty.

Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" (Bothwell) (Bartelt) Forsen died May 2, 1983, in Herman, Washington Co., NE, at age 85. Buried in Herman Cemetery, Herman, Washington Co., NE.

Obituary

Bess Forsen To Be Buried At Herman

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, at Campbell Funeral Home for Bessie Forsen who died May 2, 1983. The Rev. Kurt Sortland will officiate. Burial will be in the Herman Cemetery. Bessie Forsen was born in Little Sioux, Iowa, November 26, 1897, to Thomas and Sara Armstrong Bothwell. She married John C. Forsen on February 28, 1925. She lived in California Junction, Iowa, until moving to Herman in 1961. One brother, Thomas Bothwell, preceded her in death. She is survived by three children, Cleo Anderson, Sun City, Arizona; Charlotte Turner, Des Moines, Iowa, and J. Kenneth Forsen, Herman. Nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four sisters, Ethel Nelson, Council Bluffs, Iowa; Bertha Kidder, Kinnakec, Washington; Leona Powell, Little Sioux, Iowa; and Josephine Roden Mondamin, Iowa; and two brothers, Lloyd Bothwell, Pisgah, Iowa; and Joseph Bothwell, Mondamin, Iowa, also survive her. Campbell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for the services.

Richard Clark "Rit" Turner died September 28, 1986, at his home, West Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, at age 58. Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA.

Richard C. Turner, Iowa State Senator, Republican

Lawyer

Pottawattamie

01/14/1963 - 01/10/1965

RICHARD C. TURNER Council Bluffs Republican 19th (Old) Senatorial District Pottawattamie County. Born in Avoca, Iowa, Sept. 30, 1927, son of Joe W. and Betty Turner. Graduated from Avoca High School 1945. Served in Air Force 1945-47. Graduated State University of Iowa, (B.A.), 1950, and College of Law, (J.D.) February, 1953. Practiced law at Avoca, Iowa, with father in firm Turner and; Turner, 1953-54. Assistant county attorney, Council Bluffs, 1954-56. Since 1956 has engaged in practice of law at Council Bluffs. Married Charlotte Forsen of Modale, Iowa, and has son, Joe W. Turner, II, and daughter, Amy Elizabeth. Town clerk, Avoca, 1953-60. Member Theta Xi and Phi Delta Phi, legal fraternity, American Legion, 40 & 8, Sertoma, Elks, Eagles, and member of the Presbyterian Church. Second session.

The Cedar Rapids Gazette, Cedar Rapids, IA, Monday, September 29, 1986

Carl John Forsen died January 27, 1990, in Herman, Washington Co., NE, at age 93. Buried in Herman Cemetery, Herman, Washington Co., NE.

Obituary

John Forsen, 93

Funeral services for John Forsen, age 93, of Herman, who died at Memorial Community Hospital in Blair, January 27, 1990, were held Monday, January 29, 1990, at the Campbell-Aman Funeral Home with Re. J. David Nelson officiating. Burial was in the Herman Cemetery. John C. Forsen was born on August 29, 1896, at Umea, Sweden, to Carl and Charlotte Forsen. He attended school in Sweden before coming to the United States in 1914. He settled in the Magnolia, Iowa, area upon his arrival to the States and was engaged in farming in this area. He later moved to the Missouri Valley, Iowa, area and farmed until 1960 at which time he moved to Herman, Nebraska, and resided there until his death. He was married to Bessie Bothwell. She preceded him in death in May, 1983. John is survived by one son, Kenneth Forsen of Herman, Nebraska; two daughters, Charlotte Turner, West Des Moines, Iowa, and Cleo Larson, Sun City, Arizona; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Albert and Emil Forsen of Sweden, Ivor, Vancouver, Canada, and one sister, Mimi Johannsen of Sweden. Campbell-Aman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird and Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) Turner were married June 29, 1993, in Des Moines, Polk Co., IA.

The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, Sunday, August 8, 1993

LAIRD/TURNER - Charlotte Turner and Russell H. Laird, both of Des Moines, were married June 29. The bride is the daughter of the late John C. and Bessie Forsen. The groom is the son of the late Russell B. and Grace Hughes, where the bride is retired and the groom is employed at Wasker Dorr Wimmer & Marcouiller.

Jeffery L. Forsen died August 22, 1996, after being in an auto accident at St. Joseph, MO. Buried in Herman Cemetery, Herman, Washington Co., NE.

Obituary

Jeffery L. Forsen, 41

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 28 at the Herman Legion Hall for Jeffery L. Forsen, 41, of Herman who died August 22, 1996, after being in an auto accident at St. Joseph, Missouri. Burial will be in the Herman Cemetery. A prayer service will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday at Campbell-Aman Funeral Home. Jeffery Forsen was born November 22, 1954, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Kenneth and Darlene Meeker Forsen. He graduated from Tekamah-Herman High School in 1972. He was a life-long farmer in the Herman area and also worked for ICI at Cargill in Blair. He played, coached and was a softball umpire in Blair. He was a big supporter of the Tekamah-Herman Wrestling Club. He married LeAnn Moore July 21, 1972, at Elk Point, South Dakota. He is survived by his wife, LeAnn; three children, Trisha, Tafida and Jeffery; his parents, Kenneth and Darlene; a brother and sister-in-law, John and Judy Forsen, Herman; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Tammy and Joe Petersen and Terri and David Vopnford, all of Blair; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

James Francis "Jimmy" Thompson died July 26, 1999, at his home, Wantagh, Nassau Co., NY (age 69). Buried in the Cemetery of the Holy Rood, Westbury, Nassau Co., NY.

Newsday, Suffolk Edition, Melville, NY, Tuesday,  July 27, 1999

Death Notices

THOMPSON - James F. (Jimmy) on July 25, 1999 of Wantagh, passed away at home with his devoted wife Catherine at his side. Gentle and loving father of Theresa, Kenneth, Steven and Karen. Beloved father-in-law of Douglas, Karen and Susan. Adored Pop-pop of Kristen, Kirby, Matthew, Steven, Caitlyn and Lisa. Retired manager Customer Service of the Wantagh Post Office and Part time Driver for the Levittown School District. Life long New York Yankee Fan. Reposing, Wantagh Abbey Inc. (corner of Park Ave and Beech St), Wantagh, Tuesday and Wednesday, 2-4:30 and 7-9:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, 11AM at St. Frances de Chantal. Interment, Holy Rood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to St. Frances de Chantel Human Life Committee or Cancer Care Inc.

DECATUR - Geri Olson, 79, died 6:00 A.M., Tuesday, October 5, 2004. Memorial services will be 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 9, at First Presbyterian Church, Decatur, with Pastor Jim Montgomery officiating. The family will greet friends of Geri's in the church parlor after the memorial service. Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, will be handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Donor's Choice. Geraldine was born in Des Moines, Iowa, to Russell B. and Grace Hughes Laird on May 10, 1925. She grew up in Sidney, Iowa, and graduated from Drake University. She taught elementary school in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and was a Fulbright Exchange teacher in 1954-55 in New South Wales, Australia. She married James Olson in 1958. They moved to Champaign, Illinois, and lived there for 7 years. They moved to Decatur in 1965 when James became a faculty member of Millikin University. She taught reading classes at Johns Hill School and English and Reading at MacArthur High School. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church. Surviving are her husband James; children Christine and husband Patrick Sheen of Frankfort, Illinois, son Kent and wife Dee Dee of Winter Springs, Florida, son Bruce and wife Nancy of Springfield, Illinois, eleven grandchildren and brother Russell and wife Char of Des Moines, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents. The family wishes to express thanks to Dr. James Wade and to the DMH Hospice service for their kind and thoughtful care of Geri. Obituary written by family members.

Calvin Raymond Mikkleson died July 23, 2006, in Massapequa Park, Nassau Co., NY, at age 83. Buried in Calverton National Cemetery, Calverton, Suffolk Co., NY.

Calvin Raymond Mikkleson

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown died November 7, 2008, in Colorado Springs, El Paso Co., CO, at age 87. Buried in Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Denver Co., CO.

The Gazette, Colorado Springs, El Paso Co., CO, November 12, 2008

Frederic L. Brown

Born Nov. 6, 1921. Died Nov. 7, 2008.

Pharmacist, four-year Colorado Springs resident. Graveside service, 12:15 p.m. today, Fort Logan National Cemetery. Funeral and Cremation Care of Colorado.

   

Frederic Leon "Fred" Brown Military Records.

Catherine C. (Unknown) (Thompson) Mikkleson died October 20, 2009, in Unknown, at age 79. Buried in Holy Rood Cemetery.

Newsday, Long Island, NY, October 23, 2009

Catherine Thompson Mikkleson

MIKKLESON - Catherine Thompson, 79, lived in Wantagh for most of her life. Predeceased by husband James Thompson in 1999. Met Calvin Mikkleson in a grief support group and wed in 2002, and widowed again in 2006. Caring mother to Theresa, Kenneth, Steven and Karen and mother-in-law to Douglas, Karen and Susan. Loving Nanee to Kristen, Matthew, Kirby, Steven, Caitlyn and Lisa, and Great-Nanee to Hayley, Zackary and Dylan. Catherine loved a good story, a nice song and great clothes. She spent the last 3˝ years being cared for in Alabama, where people often remarked on her beauty, dignity and articulate vocabulary. Friends and family may visit at the Wantagh Abbey, Inc., 3374 Park Ave., Wantagh, on Friday 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday at St. Frances de Chantal at 9:30am. Interment to follow Holy Rood Cemetery.

January 26, 2010

Was so sorry to hear of your mom's passing.
Always remember the happy times!
Best regards,
Gail Mikkleson Guerin

Russell Hughes "Rusty" Laird died June 5, 2015, at Deerfield Retirement Community, Urbandale, Polk Co., IA, at age 88. Buried in Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Van Meter Twp., Chickasaw Co., IA.

Russell (Rusty) Laird

Urbandale - Rusty Laird, 88, passed away June 5, 2015 at Deerfield Retirement Community in Urbandale. Memorial Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, June 22 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Des Moines. Russell Hughes Laird was born in Sidney, IA, January 16, 1927. He attended Sidney schools until his family moved to Des Moines, where he attended Roosevelt High School for a year and graduated from Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, MO. He left school early during his senior year at Wentworth in 1944 and joined the Navy in World War II. He served as a signalman in the South Pacific on two LSMs. Following the war, he enrolled at the University of Nebraska, where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, followed by a Doctor of Laws Degree from the Law School. Russell passed the Bar in Nebraska and came to Iowa, where he passed the Iowa Bar to practice law in Iowa. His first job in Iowa was a year with the Iowa National Mutual Insurance Company in Cedar Rapids. He then came to Des Moines and represented a number of trade associations until his retirement in 1993. He served "of counsel" for a period of time thereafter with the law firm of Wasker, Dorr, Wimmer and Marcoullier. During his working years, Rusty was active in community affairs, most notably as a member of the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Commission, where he served for 36 years. He was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, University of Nebraska Alumni Association, Waveland Park Masonic Lodge, Des Moines Consistory, ZaGaZig Shrine, Argonne Post American Legion, Beaverdale Post VFW, Ducks Unlimited, Golden Kiwanis Club, Des Moines Golf and Country Club, and Saint Luke's Episcopal Church. Rusty was first married to Bonnie McGeeney, which union produced a daughter, Meri Jones, now of Boyne City, Michigan, and a son, Timothy Laird, now living in Louisville, KY. In 1993, Rusty married Charlotte Turner, whose daughter, Amy Fox and family live in Clive, IA, and whose son, Joe Turner and family live in Bettendorf, IA. Rusty is survived by his wife, Charlotte; daughter, Meri Jones (Lynn); son, Timothy (Lori); stepdaughter, Amy Fox (Greg); stepson, Joe Turner (Kim); and five grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Lifespace Foundation at Deerfield. Online condolences are welcomed at IlesCares.com

John Kenneth Forsen died March 2, 2017, at Crowell Memorial Home, Blair, Washington Co., NE, at age 85. Buried in Herman Cemetery, Herman, Washington Co., NE.

The Washington County Pilot-Tribune & Enterprise, Blair, Washington Co., NE, March 3, 2017

John Kenneth Forsen

July 9, 1931 - March 2, 2017

The Washington County Pilot-Tribune & Enterprise, Blair, Washington Co., NE, March 3, 2017

John Kenneth Forsen

July 9, 1931 - March 2, 2017

Campbell-Aman Funeral Home, Blair, Washington Co., NE

John Kenneth Forsen

Birth: Jul. 9, 1931
Harrison County
Iowa, USA

Death: Mar. 2, 2017
Blair
Washington County
Nebraska, USA

Kenneth was born to John C. and Bessie Forsen. He attended Modale High School and participated in baseball, basketball and track. He graduated from Modale in 1950.
Kenneth proudly served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952 and in the reserves from 1952-1954. He was a lifetime member the Herman American Legion Post #274. On June 30-1952 he married Darlene Meeker in Council Bluffs, Iowa; the couple were high school sweethearts. A life long farmer, he started farming in Iowa with his father and then in 1959 moved to Herman and in later years farmed with his sons and grandsons. He also worked as a seed salesman for Garst & Thomas Seed Company.

Preceded by:
Parents: John and Bessie Forsen
Son: Jeff Forsen
Infant granddaughter: Heidi Forsen
Grandson: Colton Peterson
Sister: Cleo Larsen

Survived by:
Wife of 64 years: Darlene
Children: John (Judy) Forsen, Tammy (Joe) Peterson, Terri (David) Vopnford
Daughter in law: LeAnn Forsen
Grandchildren: Shawn, Sharon, Trisha, Jeffrey, Tafida, Cramer, Clara, Kiela, Shelbi, Thor
Many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren

Darlene Ellen (Meeker) Forsen died September 19, 2019, at Crowell Memorial Hospital, Blair, Washington Co., NE, at age age 88.

The Tri-State Neighbor, Sioux Falls, Woodbury Co., IA, Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Darlene Forsen

A celebration of the life of Darlene Forsen was held Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, at the American Legion hall in Herman. The 88-year old Herman woman passed away Sept. 19, 2019, at Crowell Memorial Home in Blair. Darlene was born on November 15, 1930 in Iowa, the daughter of Clifford and Mary Meeker. She was a graduate of Modale High School where she was a member of the basketball team. On June 30, 1952 she was united in marriage to Kenneth Forsen in Council Bluffs. In 1959 the couple moved to Herman where they farmed and raised their family.
Darlene is survived by her children; John (Judy) Forsen of Blair, Tammy (Joe) Peterson of Blair, Terri (David) Vopnford of Mt. Vernon, Washington, daughter-in-law LeAnn Forsen of Herman; grandchildren; Shawn Forsen, Sharon Thompson, Trisha Forsen, Tafida Jones, Jeffery Forsen, Cramer Peterson, Clara Renter, Kiela Vopnford, Shelbi Kendrick, and Thor Vopnford; great-grandchildren; Johnathan, Sasha, Jack and Kendall Forsen, Jordan Holst, Kayla Witthuhn, Jeffery, Jarren and Jaylon Forsen, Scotland Raelyn and Axel Zachmeyer, Treyton and Lexi Jones, Tommy and Tyler Thompson, great-great-grandchildren; Hadley Forsen, Margo Yepes, Harrison Renter and Elias Forsen, and siblings; Dwight, Barbara and Ronnie Meeker and Donna Zywiec. She was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth, son Jeff Forsen, grandchildren; Heidi Forsen and Colton Peterson, along with 4 sisters and 4 brothers.
Memorials may be directed to Ascera Care Hospice, The Alzheimer’s Association or The Colton Peterson Memorial Foundation.  

John Gregory "Greg" Fox died June 17, 2022, in Clive, Polk Co., IA, at age 67.

The Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Polk Co., IA, Thursday, June 23, 2022

   

CLIVE - John Gregory Fox, 67, died suddenly of natural causes on June 17, 2022. Greg was born January 29, 1955 in Janesville, WI to Catherine (Moore) and Earl Fox. The family moved to Iowa and Greg graduated from Urbandale High School. He then attended Iowa State University where he became a faithful and loyal Cyclone fan. He owned and operated Iowa Window and US Window for 40 years. Greg’s top priority was his family. He loved them dearly and was a devoted husband and father. He was fascinated with the United States Space Program from a young age and was a science fiction enthusiast his whole life. This inspired him and his sons to build model rockets and launch them around central Iowa. Greg had an adventurous spirit that led him to join the Perry, IA Sky Divers Club in which he completed over 600 jumps. He was also a certified SCUBA diver and went on many dives with his family. Greg was a member of Des Moines Golf and Country Club and an avid golfer. When his children were younger, Greg was involved in the Crestview Elementary Chess Club and relished playing chess and teaching others the game. Greg also enjoyed gardening, reading, woodworking, and painting artistic landscapes. In addition to these many talents and interests, Greg invented an early-season outdoor tomato growing device, which awarded him a patent. He is greatly missed by his wife of 33 years, Amy; his children, Michelle, John and Nicholas Fox; his brother, Earl (Stephanie) Fox; mother-in-law, Charlotte Laird; and a host of other family members and friends. Greg was preceded in death by his parents. Services will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 12:00 noon with visitation two hours prior. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.  

Charlotte Bothwell (Forsen) (Brown) (Turner) Laird died February 25, 2023, at Deerfield Retirement Community, Urbandale, Polk Co., IA, at age 94. Interred in Graceland Cemetery, Avoca, Pottawattamie Co., IA.

Charlotte Turner Laird, 94, passed away February 25, 2023, at Deerfield Retirement Community in Urbandale, Iowa, following a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 3424 Forest Ave. in Des Moines. Charlotte was born April 8, 1928, in Missouri Valley, Iowa. She graduated from Modale High School in Modale, IA, attended Iowa State Teachers College, received a Bachelor's degree from University of Omaha, and did graduate work at Drake University. Before beginning her career, Charlotte served in the US Air Force. Upon her return, she taught Kindergarten in Dallas Center, Council Bluffs and Omaha, Nebraska public schools. She was a real estate agent, secretary in the Iowa Legislature, and elected to the West Des Moines Park Board. Charlotte was active in Questers, PEO, Saturday Saints Guild, Des Moines Golf and Country Club, two Needlework groups, her bridge clubs, and was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Charlotte married Richard C. Turner and this union produced children. Charlotte was active in Richard's political career and in her children's activities. Richard's death in 1986. Charlotte married Russell "Rusty" Laird in 1993. Rusty passed in 2015. Charlotte was preceded in death by her husbands; and son, Mark Turner. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to St. Luke's Episcopal Church.

Meri Dean "Chatty" (Laird) Jones died May 3, 2023, in Boyne City, Charlevoix Co., MI, at age 60. Cremated.

Meri Laird Jones

August 22, 1962 ~ May 3, 2023 (age 60)

Meri (Chatty) Laird Jones, 60, of Boyne City, Michigan passed away in her sleep at her home on May 3, 2023. The daughter of Russell (Rusty) and Bonnie Laird, Meri was born in Des Moines, Iowa on August 22, 1962. She grew up in Southfield, Michigan, graduating a semester early from Southfield High School to attend Iowa State University where she studied for three years until transferring to Drake University where she earned her bachelor's degree in marketing. Meri worked as a recruiter in California after graduating and returned to Michigan to start her own recruiting firm 36 years ago with her mother. She was an industry leader holding many positions within the state association and board positions within NPA Worldwide, her global recruiting network. She was a Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC) and won many achievement awards along with her sister-in-law, Lori, who will continue the Davidson Laird, Inc. executive recruiting business. On January 2, 2003, she married Lynn Jones in Jamaica. They married at 4:00 PM and had friends and family celebrate with a toast at that time across eight different time zones. Meri was such a beautiful, brilliant, vibrant, fun soul who embraced life and was such a light to all who knew her. She volunteered at The Humane Society and Eta Nu chapter of Boyne City. She enjoyed golf at the Country Club of Boyne, playing with Lynn and friends four times weekly, along with skiing, biking, scuba diving, walking, hiking, and just being outside. Her true passion was travel and learning about diverse cultures, people, and history. She traveled many times to South Africa (wine country and on safari) along with Botswana, Rwanda, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Korea, India, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Europe, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Canada, and throughout the US. She was an avid opera and theater goer and especially loved Le Miserable and Phantom of the Opera which she sang often. She also loved her birthday, white cake, the color yellow, lilies of the valley, their Kentucky Derby party, reading, Netflix, Wheat Thins, toffee, morel mushrooms, thin crust pizza, gummy bears, dogs, yoga, and any excuse to get together with friends and family. Meri celebrated her 60th birthday surrounded by friends who threw a party for her at The Eagles along with out-of-town friends Sarah, Donna, Monica, and Lori who flew in to surprise her. On her actual birthday she went skydiving, jumping out of a plane over Northern Michigan, with fearless friend Sallie who was terrified, but not Meri, she was excited to jump. She is survived by her husband Lynn Jones; his daughters Martine Jones and Michelle (David) Walker; grandchildren: Allanah, Niall, Harley, Owen, and Joe; her brother Tim (Lori) Laird; uncle Jim Olson; cousins Kent (DeeDee) Olson, Bruce (Nancy) Olson, Chris (Pat) Sheen, Margaret (Dolly) Lynott; her Naples, Florida friends; and many close friends and colleagues around the world. Meri is preceded in death by her parents, aunt Geri Olson, and beloved dogs Shadow and Lady. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in Meri's memory are asked to consider the Charlevoix Area Humane Society, https://www.charlevoixhumane.org/. A celebration of life is planned for July in Boyne City, Michigan, details to follow.