Walker-Merrick-Billings & Wolfe Billings Funeral Chapels

01/07/2026

Earl R. Booher, 79, Villisca, IA formerly of Clarinda, IA

Services for Earl will be private family only.
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Earl Ray Booher, known affectionately as Earl to his friends and family, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on December 31, 2025, in Villisca, Iowa. Born on February 7, 1946, in Iowa City, Iowa, Earl's life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication to family, and the simple joys of nature.

Raised in the heart of Iowa, Earl spent his early years in Athelston, where he attended the community school until its closure in 1958. A move to Shenandoah marked the beginning of a diverse and industrious career. Earl's work ethic shone through his varied employment, which included driving a cement truck for AM Cohron, operating a floater for Wins, delivering for Old Home Bread, selling Rainbow vacuums, and managing a gas station. His tenure at American Concrete as a plant manager, from which he retired in 2009, was a role he held with great pride, reflecting his commitment to providing for his family.

Earl's zest for life was evident in his love for the great outdoors. An early riser, he cherished the quiet moments before dawn, whether it was to cast a line into a still lake, track game through the woods, or forage for mushrooms. His passion for football kept him engaged during the winter months, although he was never fond of the cold. Nevertheless, his love for hunting endured, braving the chill for the thrill of the hunt.

As the years went by, Earl found comfort in the simpler pleasures. He became a familiar figure at Clarhaven in Clarinda, Iowa, where he resided. There, he made friends with everyone at the smoke shack, sharing stories and laughter. Bird watching turned into a cherished pastime, transforming every trip to the store into an adventure, with his keen eyes spotting hawks, eagles, and especially owls, his favorite. His collection of owl statues and decorations grew over the years, each piece a cherished memory of his outdoor excursions.

Earl's love for Westerns, particularly those starring John Wayne, could only be rivaled by his enjoyment of visits to the casino. In his retirement, he found a new community among the bright lights and sounds of the slot machines, yet he always carried with him the spirit of the Iowa plains.

Preceded in death by his mother Marcelene (Booher) Binau, stepfather Charles (Chuck) Binau, daughter Darla Booher, sons Kieth Booher and Johnny Ray Shaw, brother Guy (Bert) Irvin, and sisters Mary (Booher) Ellison and Jessie (Irvin) Frohling, Earl leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. His memory will be cherished by his surviving siblings, Charles (Charlie) Binau, Jr. of Nebraska City, Thelma Binau and Connie (Binau) Dawson of Shenandoah, and his children Jesalene Rae (Booher) Vegas, Holly (Booher) Nadolsky, Tammy Lynn (Booher) Buckridge, Melinda (Booher) Smith, James Booher, and Steven Earl Owen Booher. His life is also celebrated by his many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, who will carry forward his spirit of resilience and joy.

Earl's journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family, a deep appreciation for nature, and a genuine ability to connect with those around him. His story is one of a life well-lived, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Earl Ray Booher's memory will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of his loved ones

12/29/2025

Shannon R. Larson, 51, of Grimes, IA, formerly of New Market, IA

Funeral services for Shannon will be held at Walker-Merrick-Billings Funeral Chapel on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11 am, with a visitation one hour prior. Memorials can be made to Harryette Larson to be designated at a later time.

Shannon Rene’ Larson was born on January 3rd, 1974, to Merrill Larson and Harryette Anderson Larson. She was a 1992 graduate of Clarinda High School and a 1996 graduate of Central College in Pella Iowa.

In her senior year at Central College, she spent a semester in Spain and always wanted to return someday.

She was very active in theater in high school and college. One of the judges of her one-act play entry told her she should become a comedian. Even as a teacher, she was involved in one-act plays and speech contests.

Shannon went on to teach Spanish for 11 years and was a guidance counselor for 19 years, making many friends along the way.

She is preceded in death by her father, Merrill, in 2022 and her cat Oliver in 2025.

She is survived by her mother, Harryette, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. ”

12/29/2025

Maxine Wills, 84, Villisca, Iowa

Pearl Maxine (Richards) Wills, known affectionately as Maxine to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, in Clarinda, Iowa, at the age of 84. Born on August 13, 1941, in San Bernardino, California, to the late Ira and Irene Richards, Maxine was the matriarch and source of strength and support to all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bernard Wills, her brother Earl Richards, and her parents Ira and Irene Richards.
Maxine was a proud graduate of Elliott High School. Her career was as diverse as it was fulfilling, having worked as a Nurses’ Aide at Jenny Edmundson in Council Bluffs, the Red Oak Carbon Plant, and the Red Oak Greenhouse. She also contributed her talents to the Villisca Circle J Hotel and the Villisca Good Samaritan, where her work ethic and dedication made her an asset.
Maxine's spiritual beliefs were a guiding force in her life, providing her with strength and comfort. She lived her values through her actions, always extending a helping hand and a listening ear to those in need.
Her zest for life was evident in her love for cultural icons such as Elvis and her enjoyment of shows like "Dancing with the Stars" and "The Young and the Restless." A simple pleasure, such as savoring a Pepsi, brought her immense joy, as did her visits to the Henry Doorley Zoo, where she marveled at the wonders of nature. Maxine had a particular affinity for flowers, surrounding herself with their beauty and nurturing them in her gardens.
Maxine's legacy of love is carried on by her devoted children, daughter Dawn and her husband Barry Lull, and son Brian Wills. She was the cherished grandmother to Brittiny and Brianna Wills and Tabitha Lull. Her memory will be treasured by her brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Bonita Richards, sister-in-law Bonnie Starlin, sister-in-law Jeanne Orstad, and her cousin LaDonna and her husband Jerry Conroy. Her warmth and kindness will also be remembered by her niece Wendy and her husband Bob Synowicki, among many other relatives and friends who were touched by her generous spirit.
Selfless, loving, and spirited are the words that best encapsulate Maxine's essence. She devoted herself to her family, always putting their needs above her own. Her unwavering support and unconditional love were the cornerstones of her relationships. Her spirit was infectious, and she used it to overcome many obstacles. Her laughter and jokes were the music of many gatherings, leaving behind a symphony of memories for all who were graced by her company.
As we bid farewell to Maxine, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and profoundly impactful. She has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. Maxine's journey through life was a testament to the power of love, the joy of giving, and the beauty of the human spirit. Her memory will be held in our hearts forever as a reminder of the wonderful person she was.
Maxine's life will be celebrated in a service that honors her memory and the light she brought into this world. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to dance among us, as vibrant and lively as ever. Rest in peace, dear Sister, Mother and grandmother. Your journey here may have ended, but your story lives on through us and the countless lives you've touched.

Visitation:
Monday, December 29, 2025, 5-7 pm at Wolfe-Billings Funeral Chapel.

Service:
Tuesday, December 30, 2025, 11 am at Wolfe-Billings Funeral Chapel.

Memorials:
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

12/29/2025

Michael Holbrook,39, Clarinda, IA

Private family services.

Michael Allen Jeffrey Holbrook, affectionately known as Mike to his friends and family, lived a life defined by courage, strength, and an unyielding spirit of adventure. Born on the brisk autumn day of October 18, 1986, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Mike set out on a journey that would inspire all who crossed his path. Sadly, his journey ended on December 26, 2025, in the welcoming community of Clarinda, Iowa, where his vibrant life came to rest after his battle of a terminal illness.

Mike's story is one of unwavering determination and love. He found his heart's companion in Ashley A. Holbrook, and together they navigated the waters of life, he leaves behind son Landen and godson Jordan. The bonds with his sisters Missy, Sissy, and sisters-in-law Jessica, Samantha, and Nicole were woven with threads of kinship and shared joy. His bond was strong with his in-laws Maryann Skodak (Gary) and Al Bommer. Uniting these relationships was the love and wisdom he received from his late parents, Virginia "Ginger" Moore (Craig Moore) and Thomas Edwards, as well as from his cherished Grandma Linda "Fluff" Holbrook.

An embodiment of lifelong learning, Mike was pursuing his nursing degree at Iowa Western Community College, demonstrating that it's never too late to chase new dreams. His professional life was as eclectic as it was remarkable, ranging from the precision of a Surgical Tech to the leadership of a Yard Boss. In his most recent role as a Peer Support Specialist, Mike empowered others through his own journey with addiction and recovery, offering a hand to those navigating the storms of life, just as he had. Mike's spirituality was as deep as the rivers he kayaked, flowing with a current of inner peace and understanding. His passionate interest in sports was more than a pastime; it was a lens through which he viewed the world, appreciating teamwork, resilience, and the thrill of competition. His athletic pursuits were not just left on the school fields; he graced the practice squad of the Detroit Lions and dazzled in the G league for basketball, never losing his zeal for the game.

In remembrance of him, there has been a scholarship fund established for underprivileged children to attend sports programs in his local area. When he wasn't on the field or court, you could find Mike casting a line into the stillness of a lake, enjoying the serenity of a good fish, or navigating the waters with a paddle in hand. Each tattoo that adorned Mike's body was a chapter of his life story, inked into his skin with love and memories. But it was the shared tattoo with Ashley that embodied their unique bond, a symbol of their entwined paths seeking harmony in one another's arms. Words such as adventurous, loving, and thoughtful merely scratch the surface when describing Mike.

He was a beacon of hope, showing us that every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and that our past does not define us but instead teaches us. We could all learn from how Mike lived his life, embracing each moment with passion and genuine care for those around him. He left an indelible mark on this world, not just through deeds, but through the warmth he extended to every soul he touched. Today, we don't say goodbye to Mike Holbrook; we say thank you. Thank you for the laughter, the lessons, and the unwavering support. Thank you for showing us that even the most profound grief can give way to new beginnings. His legacy will carry on through his family, his friends, and the countless lives he touched with his transformative spirit. Mike's departure may feel like a chapter has ended, but in reality, his influence continues to ripple outward, touching lives beyond measure. Let us honor his memory by embodying the love and courage he exuded every day and by cherishing the time we have with our loved ones. Go out into the world and explore, with the spirit of Michael Allen Jeffrey Holbrook as your compass, guiding you towards a life filled with love, purpose, and boundless adventure.

12/29/2025

Ronald Dean Potts, 84, Clarinda, Iowa
Private family services.
Ron grew up on the family farm in rural Page County and graduated from New Market High School. Shortly after graduation, he left the farm and embarked on a 20 plus year career in the U.S. Air Force where he served in Vietnam, and numerous other locations stateside and overseas. Upon his retirement from the Air Force, he worked 25 years in the airline industry before retiring in 2006 and returning to Clarinda. He is preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Wilma Potts, four brothers, Keith, Willis, Herman, and Tommy Potts, and a grandson, Jacob Finger. He is survived by his daughters Angela Middleton (Dean) of Glenwood Iowa and Roni Brooks of Florence CO, five grandsons and three great-grandchildren as well as three nephews Ryan Potts, Jeremy Potts and Herman (Bodie) Potts, and a niece Tina Scroggie.

12/24/2025

12/09/2025

Patricia Grashorn, 64, Clarinda, Iowa

It is with heartfelt sympathy that we announce the passing of Patricia “Patty” Grashorn, who departed this life on December 6, 2025, at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Patty was 64 years old.
Born on May 6, 1961, in Villisca, Iowa, Patty was the daughter of Elmer and Catherine (Moser) Grashorn. She was raised as one of eight children in a loving and hardworking family, spending her early years helping on the family farm. These experiences shaped her strong work ethic, gentle spirit, and the lifelong devotion she carried for those she loved. She enjoyed basketball and cheerleading in school.
Patty possessed a remarkable creative talent and enjoyed sewing, embroidery, photography, and many other arts and crafts. Her handmade pieces became treasured gifts, each one reflecting her patience, skill, and the caring thought she put into everything she made. Known for her kindness and dependability, Patty touched countless lives with her quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering support.
Patty is survived by her brother Lonnie Grashorn of Clarinda, Iowa; her sister Becky (Gary) Kreikemeier of Bellwood, Nebraska; and her brother Terry Grashorn of Villisca, Iowa.
She is also survived by her nieces Britnee Hedlund and Nykkohl Hedlund of Emerson, Iowa, daughters of her late sister Pamela Grashorn; Kelsea Grashorn (Steven Booher) of Villisca; and Natalie (Brad) of Silver City, Iowa. She is further survived by additional nieces, great-nieces, nephews including Brian Story and Josh Grashorn of Glenwood, Iowa, as well as other nephews and great-nephews who lovingly remember her.
Patty was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Catherine Grashorn; her sisters Pamela Grashorn and Margaret Grashorn; and her brothers Bernard Grashorn and Clayton Grashorn. Also preceded in death by nephew Zachary Grashorn.
Patty will be remembered for her gentle heart, her generosity, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. Her memory will continue to be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation for Patricia will be held Friday, December 12, from 5-7 pm at Walker-Merrick-Billings Funeral Chapel.

Services will be held Saturday, December 13, at 11 am at Walker-Merrick-Billings Funeral Chapel.

Interment at Villisca Cemetery following the service.

Please feel free to join the family for a luncheon following the burial at the Villisca Community Building.

12/05/2025

LaVern A Harms, 83, Clarinda, IA

LaVern Allen Harms, known affectionately as Vern to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on March 31, 1942, in the close-knit community of Clarinda, Iowa, Vern was a man whose roots ran as deep as the fields he tended. His final days were spent in the comfort of his home in rural Shambaugh, Iowa, surrounded by the rolling farmlands he so dearly loved.

Raised in the heartland of America, Vern's early education ended after the 6th grade, but the lessons he learned from life's experiences far surpassed those of traditional schooling. Vern was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving his country with the same dedication and integrity that he would later bring to his civilian life. After his honorable discharge, he pursued a career that saw him master the trades of a mechanic and a carpenter. However, Vern's true calling was the land itself, and he devoted nearly seven decades to farming his family's homestead. His love for the soil and the seasons was a testament to his character, a legacy of growth and perseverance.

While at a square dance in Braddyville. LaVern met Lora May Whipple. They were married on November 22, 1967, at Elmo, Missouri. They had two daughters together, Tina and Tammy. Even though the marriage ended in divorce, they remained very close friends. LaVern met and married Lula Peters on July 4,1987, and remained together until her passing in 2012. He spent his last years with special friend Wilma Randall.

Vern's zest for life was evident in his hobbies and interests. He was an avid dancer, moving with grace and joy that many envied people. His love for playing cards was well known, a pastime that brought laughter and camaraderie to many an evening. Yet, it was the farm that remained his sanctuary, the place where his heart truly resided. Whether tending to the crop or repairing a fence, Vern found solace and satisfaction in the simple, rhythmic tasks of rural life.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Vern would describe him as a man of great love, wisdom, and gentleness. His presence was comforting, his advice sought after, and his love for his land and family unwavering. Vern's legacy is one of hard work, respect for the earth, and unending love for those around him. His memory will be treasured, and his life celebrated as an example of a life well-lived, rooted in the values of the heartland he called home.

As the sun sets on a life that was as rich and fertile as the fields he farmed, we bid farewell to LaVern Allen Harms. Vern's journey on this earth may have ended, but the seeds he planted in the lives of those he touched will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come. He leaves behind a community that is forever better for his presence, a patch of earth that bears his mark, and a constellation of memories that will forever twinkle in the hearts of those who loved him. Rest in peace, dear Vern; your legacy endures.
He was preceded in death by his parents Luwis and Edna Harms, wife Lula Harms, Daughter Tina Hartman, sister Ladonna Brown, brother in laws Arnold Brown, Rick Brumfield, Calvin and Richard Whipple.
Vern is survived by His daughter Tammy [Richard] Iske, Grandchildren, Ryan [Lyndsey] Booher, Emily [Jack] Murphy, Richard [ Chelsea] Hartman. Great-grandchildren Brylee and Brody Booher, Olivia, Lucy and Mason Murphy, MaeLynn, RubiLee and RosaLayne Hartman. His sisters-in-law are Deloris Brumfield and Linda Whipple. Brother-in-law Ronnie Whipple, numerous family and friends.

Lavern passed away at home on December 3, 2025. Celebration of Life services for Lavern will be Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 11 am with a visitation held one hour prior, burial to follow at Butler Cemetery. A luncheon with fellowship will be held at the funeral home following the burial. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society. https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=honormemorialbutton&lang=en

11/27/2025

Thanksgiving can be challenging when you’re grieving. A holiday centered on gratitude, family gatherings, and celebration can seem daunting when someone close to you is no longer there. The traditions that used to bring warmth might now feel empty, and feelings of sadness, anger, or confusion may overshadow gratitude. But in times of loss, Thanksgiving can also offer a unique opportunity to remember, honor, and slowly begin healing. Here are some gentle ways to approach Thanksgiving after losing a loved one, allowing space for both grief and gratitude.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s okay if you’re not feeling grateful or festive this Thanksgiving. Loss can bring waves of complex emotions, and it’s essential to honor these feelings without judgment. Grief isn’t linear; it shows up in unexpected ways and doesn’t always align with holiday expectations. Allow yourself to feel however you need to, whether it’s sadness, anger, or even numbness. Give yourself permission to experience Thanksgiving differently this year.

2. Create Space for Remembrance
Thanksgiving can be a beautiful opportunity to honor your loved one’s memory. Consider setting a place at the table for them, lighting a candle, or making their favorite dish. Invite others to share stories about your loved one, reflecting on the joy they brought to your lives. By creating space for their memory, you’re not only honoring them but also integrating their presence into your traditions.

3. Embrace New Traditions
After a loss, it can be painful to follow the same rituals and traditions. Instead, try exploring new traditions that feel right for you. Maybe this Thanksgiving, you decide to spend time in nature, volunteer at a shelter, or have a smaller, quieter meal with close friends or family. New traditions don’t erase the old ones—they’re ways to adapt to your current emotional landscape and honor your needs during this time.

4. Connect with Others Who Understand
Grieving can often feel isolating, especially during a holiday centered around togetherness. If you have friends or family who are also experiencing loss, reach out and connect with them. If that’s not possible, consider looking into local support groups or online communities where people share similar experiences. Knowing you’re not alone in your grief can be comforting, and the shared understanding can bring a sense of community that’s especially healing during the holidays.

5. Focus on Small Moments of Gratitude
Gratitude may feel difficult or even impossible to access when grieving, but it doesn’t have to be about grand gestures or feelings. Instead, focus on small, quiet moments that offer peace or comfort, such as a beautiful sunset, the warmth of a cozy blanket, or a kind word from a friend. These small things can provide a gentle reminder that joy can still coexist with sorrow.

6. Give Yourself Permission to Skip or Scale Back the Celebration  You might feel pressured to put on a brave face or participate fully in Thanksgiving traditions, but it’s okay if that’s not where you’re at this year. Give yourself permission to set boundaries and skip or scale back on what feels overwhelming. Grief doesn’t follow a holiday schedule, and it’s okay to take a step back to care for yourself. Loved ones will understand if you need a little more space or choose to spend the holiday differently.
If Thanksgiving feels especially hard this year, remember you’re not alone. Grief is a testament to love, and by finding ways to celebrate, you’re honoring the love that still lives on within you. May this Thanksgiving bring you moments of comfort, the warmth of cherished memories, and the quiet understanding that healing is a journey you don’t have to walk alone.

11/26/2025

“One Last Time Around the Table”
(A Thanksgiving Poem)
I wish the whole family could be here this year—
every seat filled,
every voice overlapping another,
every laugh rising up to the ceiling
like it used to.
I wish we could squeeze everyone
around the same old table,
the one that’s held decades of stories,
decades of hands reaching for rolls,
decades of grace said over food
made with love and prayers.
I wish the ones who moved away
could walk through the door
just like that.
I wish the ones who are busy
could slow down enough to sit and stay.
And I wish the ones who’ve gone to Heaven
could have one more seat
right beside us—
just for a moment.
Holidays change as the years pass.
Kids grow up and start families of their own.
Chairs get left empty that once held the people
who shaped our entire world.
And sometimes,
no matter how hard we try,
we can’t gather everyone
the way we used to.
But still—
my heart sets the table for all of them.
For the voices I miss.
For the laughter I can still hear if I close my eyes.
For the recipes only they could make just right.
For the warmth that filled the room
before life scattered us like leaves in the wind.
So this Thanksgiving,
I’ll whisper a quiet prayer
as I place each plate:
“Lord, thank You for the seasons we had.
Thank You for the people who made this table feel like home.
And thank You for the hope
that one day,
there will be a feast where no one is missing—
and every loved one is gathered again.”
Until then,
I’ll treasure the moments I get.
I’ll hold tight to the memories that still sit beside me.
And I’ll keep wishing
—just once more—
for the whole family
to be around the table,
one last time.

11/17/2025

Susan (Susy) L. Boggess Clayton, 76, Villisca, Iowa
Services for Susy will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 10am at Villisca United Methodist Church with a visitation on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 5 pm to 7 pm at the Villisca United Methodist Church

Susan (Susy) Lee Boggess Clayton was born to Frank H. (Jim) Boggess and Effie Lee Narigon on November 12, 1949, in Clarinda, IA. She attended school in Villisca and graduated in 1967. She married Dallas R. Clayton on June 14, 1969. To this union were born Troy Dallas on November 8, 1970, and Shelley Renee on January 15, 1974.

Susy attended the University of Nebraska at both Lincoln and Kearney, and Texas Tech University in Lubbock. She received a cm laude bachelor’s degree in education with certification in English & Speech, and later she received a teaching certificate in Media/Technology. She taught for over 30 years and helped a small district in Iowa become the first in the state that provided technology school-wide and the program of personal laptops for each student. She also worked for the local Farm Bureau Offices in Page, Montgomery and Adams counties. She also worked for the Nebraska State Farm Bureau office in Lincoln in the Farm & Ranch department.

Susy was a member of several organizations-The Villisca United Methodist Church, Page County Farm Bureau, Iowa Farm Bureau Young Member State Committee, P.E.O., and Lions Club. Susy was a supporter of working with and supporting people whenever possible-donating blood to the Red Cross and also donating to and helping distribute the local Food Pantry. And helping others through benefits, donations, or support was important to her. She and Dallas were foster parents in both Nebraska and Iowa for a number of years. Susy was also an avid reader and enjoyed helping out in libraries and encouraging all her students to choose books to read just for their own enjoyment.

She belonged to Villisca United Methodist her entire life. She helped light candles on Sunday for years and helped with fundraisers and other projects. She also represented her church in the Villisca Interchurch Council Committee. And she was an active member of the Church choir for years-starting out as a young girl. Maintaining and beautifying the churchyard was also a passion-planting flowers and trees and weeding!

She and Dallas assisted the Straits show movies in the Villisca Rialto on the weekends, helping with the projector running up in the balcony, concessions and billboards. She also enjoyed stage plays presented by the Villisca Theatre Company. She was involved in quite a few theater productions as an actor, but mostly helped with ticket sales, advertising, and more. Susy also enjoyed feeding birds and watching them out the windows--a joy even in freezing weather. Keeping track of all the variety of birds, numbers, and "quirkiness" was quite relaxing and entertaining. One of her daily relaxation moments (weather permitting!) was sitting in the shaded yard in a two-seated wooden glider that she has "inherited" when your parents no longer had room. This glider was even more special due to the family history -known to be a part of her great-grandparents' lives and maybe even further generations back. Dallas and numerous friends helped find and save all of its pieces after the Category F5 tornado in 1999 for the Boggess Family (Bob Frey) who spent weeks straightening, reattaching, painting, and remaking the canopy. When he returned the finished project, he said, "Here you go. I was happy to help restore this. BUT don't EVER ask me to do it again!" What a gift! Sitting in the glider each day in late afternoon was a little time each day that Susy could relax, listen to the birds, and enjoy the setting sun. It was important to her being with friends and neighbors. But most importantly, being with family--siblings, in-laws, "out-laws," and extended family was a blessing. But her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren had a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her husband Dallas Clayton; parents Frank (Jim) and Effie Lee Boggess, mother and father-in-law Dallas (LaVerne) and Bessie Clayton, and brother-in-law Cliff McFarland.

Susy is survived by her children Troy (Cindi) Clayton, Shelley Clayton; grandchildren, Chelsey (Garrett) Kearney, Paige (Jack) Perdue, Grace Moheng, Gavin Moheng; great-grandchildren, Kase Perdue and Whitney Perdue; brothers and sisters, Marilyn (John) Collister, Bill (Leslie) Boggess, Richard (Patti) Boggess, Mark (Gladys) Boggess, Jane Boggess (Chris Morreale), Jim (Diane) Boggess, Pat McFarland, Cheryl Clayton, Rhonda Gregory, Greg Clayton, Lisa (Jurgen) Denk; 25 nieces and nephews along with many relatives and friends.

Memorials can be made to one of the following: Villisca United Methodist Church, “Chapter CH PEO” or for Kase's Krew they can be made to Paige and Jack Perdue and mailed to 215 W. 36th Kearney, NE 68845

11/10/2025

Ralph Joseph Gale, 67, Villisca, IA

Services for Ralph will be at a later date.

Ralph Joseph Gale Sr., a man whose laughter was as hearty as his love for life, passed away on November 5, 2025, in Villisca, Iowa, due to a heart attack. Born on May 3, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska, Ralph's journey through life was one of joy, service, and the simple pleasures that make life rich and fulfilling. He was a beacon of humor and wisdom, a true friend to all who knew him, and a loving patriarch to a large and vibrant family.

Ralph's early life in Omaha laid the foundation for his strong work ethic and his dedication to his community. After earning his high school diploma, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, a period of his life that instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride that he carried with him always. Following his service, Ralph brought his leadership skills to Airlite Plastics, where he worked for over two decades as a supervisor, respected by his colleagues for his fairness and his friendly demeanor.

Outside of work, Ralph was a man of many passions. He was a professional K9 trainer and handler, a role that show-cased his patience and his extraordinary ability to connect with animals. His love for country music was only matched by his love for a good cup of coffee and the tranquility of living in the country. Ralph's long hair was his trademark, often drawing comparisons to the iconic actor Sam Elliott, a resemblance he bore with a playful sense of pride. Ralph's ability to tell jokes that could make anyone laugh was legendary. He had a knack for finding humor in the everyday and could lift the spirits of those around him with just a few words. This gift of joy was one of the many ways Ralph touched the lives of those around him, leaving a legacy of laughter and light-heartedness that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his five children—Monica Hiatt, Jolyn Gale, Lisa Gale, Ralph Gale Jr., and Michael Gale, Son-in-law Jeff Hiatt Sr and Daughter-in- Law Teri Gale who will carry forward his spirit of generosity and kindness. His 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren were the apples of his eye, each of them a testament to Ralph's loving and nurturing presence in their lives. Ralph was the embodiment of the saying, "A day without laughter is a day wasted," a quote often attributed to Charlie Chaplin. He lived this philosophy every day, ensuring that those around him felt the warmth of his jovial spirit.

His wisdom was shared freely, his friendship was a treasure, and his presence was a gift to us all. Today, as we remember Ralph Joseph Gale Sr., let us not dwell on the sorrow of his passing but instead celebrate the boundless energy and love he brought into the world. Let his memory inspire us to embrace life with open arms, to find humor in our challenges, and to cherish the simple joys that each day offers. Ralph's story is one of a life well-lived, and his legacy will continue to motivate and uplift us all.