Pauley Jones Funeral Home - Harlan, Avoca and Denison, IA

11/19/2025

Beverly Barbara Kohles

Beverly Barbara Kohles was born on November 25, 1942, in Portsmouth, Iowa, to William Huebner and Irene (Wegner) Huebner. She grew up in the Portsmouth and Panama communities and was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s in Panama. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Our Lady of Fatima Parish.

On April 25, 1963, Beverly married Gerald “Gary” Joseph Kohles in Panama, Iowa. They made their home in Portsmouth, where Beverly lived for most of her life before later residing at Elm Crest. Together, they welcomed four children: Lisa, Lori, Mary Jo and Marvin.

Beverly worked for Shelby County State Bank in Portsmouth for 35 years, where she was known for her dedication and reliability. She was active in the Portsmouth Quilting Club and the Lively 20’s Ladies Club. In her free time, she enjoyed playing cards, cooking, baking, and embroidery.

Beverly passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Elm Crest Senior Living Community in Harlan, Iowa attaining the age of 82 years, 11 months and 25 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Irene Huebner and husband, Gary Kohles.

She is survived by her children, Lisa (Randy) Schomers of Omaha, NE, Lori (Kevin) Mills of Harlan, IA, Mary Jo (John) Schaben of Defiance, IA, Marvin (Jenny) Kohles of Lenexa, KS; 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; sisters, Shirley (Bud) Chamberlain of Harlan, IA, and Lin Brinker of Harlan, IA; sisters-in-law, Karen Wingert of Panama, IA, Carol (Phil) Wegner of Panama, IA, Connie Kohles of Harlan, IA, Janet Kohles of Portsmouth, IA, Meg Kohles-Dunlop of Panama, IA, JoAnn (Jay) Townsend of Wawa, PA; brother-in-law, Michael (Jan) Kohles of Folsom, CA; other relatives and many friends.

Beverly will be remembered for her steady presence in her community, her strong ties to her parish, and her commitment to her work and family.

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11/18/2025

Lila June Davis

Lila June Davis, born June 28, 1934 on a farm near Minden, Iowa to John and Mildred A. (Schnepel) Nelson. She graduated from Shelby High School 1952.

Following graduation, Lila married the love of her life, Ronald R. Davis on June 11, 1955 in Shelby Iowa. Together they made their home in Carroll, Iowa where son Craig was born in 1961. A year later, in 1962, the family moved to Harlan, Iowa where they welcomed their daughter, Coleen in 1966.

For many years Lila was a homemaker and stay at home mother. She loved to bake. She also liked to test new snack products and jokingly referred to herself as "New Food Mama." Lila had a great sense of humor and loved April Fool pranks. Many friends and co-workers cut into frosting covered blocks of styrofoam over the years. As Coleen started her high school years Lila began working at Shelby County State Bank. She loved the camaraderie with her coworkers and customers.

Lila and Ron moved to Sun City West in 2002. They then moved to Washington, Iowa, in 2017 as Ron's health failed. Following Ron's death, Lila enjoyed time with her friends at Halcyon House in Washington, Iowa, playing canasta and assembling puzzles.

Her grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her great joy. She loved to shower them with little gifts.

Lila passed away peacefully in Washington, Iowa on Friday, November 14, 2025 attaining the age of 91 years, 4 months and 18 days. She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald, her parents, brother Ivan Nelson and niece Paulette Zimmerman.

She is survived by son, Craig and his wife Jane; daughter, Coleen Watson and her husband Michael; grandchildren, Thomas Davis and his wife Grace Marengo Sanchez, Maria Davis Hochstedler and her husband Reggie, Kristin Davis Pierce and her husband Bryce, Jacob Watson and Delaney Watson; great granddaughters, Esther Davis and Ruth Davis; sister-in-law Sharon Nelson; brother-in-law Richard Davis and his wife Sandra; niece Carol Hanson, nephew Waylan Nelson, niece Tami Hatch, and niece Angela Holland.

An additional memorial service will be held at a later date at the Halcyon House in Washington, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for donations to be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Halcyon House in Washington, Iowa.

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11/17/2025

Dorothy Emma Eckmann

Full Obituary Pending...

She is survived by her nieces and nephews; other family members and friends.

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11/15/2025

Jesi Allen Myers

Full Obituary Pending...

She is survived by her husband, Kyle Krueger of Shelby, IA; children, Paris Myers of Omaha, NE; Oryon Schnoor of Shelby, IA; Elycse Schnoor of Shelby, IA; grandson, Kysin Ayers; father, Oscar (Sandy) Myers of Minden, IA; stepsister, Cheyenne Bledsoe of Avoca, IA; and half brother, Lars Trizila of Omaha, NE, other family members and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the family in Jesi's memory.

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11/14/2025

Pamela Jean Rold

Pamela was born on March 7, 1949, in Jefferson, Iowa, to Cyril "Cy" Butler and Beverly (Gunion) Butler. Pamela began her education in Jefferson, IA. She graduated from Harlan High School in 1968. Following her graduation, she selflessly returned to the family farm to help care for her grandmother until 1970. She was raised in the Catholic faith, having been baptized and confirmed at Jefferson Catholic Church.

Before her marriage, Pamela worked at Myers and While in Jefferson and later at Elm Crest Nursing Home in Harlan, Iowa. In 1970, Pamela married the love of her life, Lawrence Rold, in Omaha, Nebraska. After marrying Lawrence, she embraced the roles of a loving wife and homemaker. She was a loving mother to her children. She also dedicated herself to overseeing the care of family members, including her husband's grandmother, Eva Blat, and most recently, her husband's mother, Virginia Rold She also worked as a vending machine attendant in Shelby County and surrounding communities.

Pamela had a deep love for her community and her faith. She enjoyed baking, especially for the Lady's Auxiliary and the American Legion. She devoted time to her faith through Sunday School teaching and Bible study.

Pamela passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Jennie Edmundsen Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa attaining the age of 76 years, 8 months, and 6 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cy and Beverly Butler; infant son, Adam Rold; and sister, Connie DeForest.

She is survived by her husband, Lawrence Rold of Harlan, IA; son, Mitchell (Maria) Rold of El Paso, TX; 3 grandchildren, Cristian (Kayle) Rold, Mitchell Rold II, and Jasmine Rold all of El Paso, TX; great granddaughter, Elise Rold; siblings, Sharon Blum (John Ohlinger) of Woodbine, IA, Tom (Diane) Butler of Harlan, IA, Scott Butler (Linda Stuhr) of Persia, IA; brother-in-law, Woody DeForest of Woodbine, IA other relatives and friends.

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11/12/2025

Nickolas John Hess

Nickolas John Hess was born on November 1, 1960, in Strawberry Point, Iowa, to his mother Bonnie Durnan. He grew up in Iowa and completed 11 years of school before beginning a lifelong career in trucking. This was a profession that became both his livelihood and his passion.

Nickolas began driving trucks after working at his family’s dairy, and over the years he spent 34 years behind the wheel. He worked for several companies before proudly running his own business, NL Trucking. His dedication and strong work ethic earned him respect from coworkers, friends, and family alike. In addition to driving truck, Nickolas also enjoyed helping others. He helped drive tractor for a farmer in Atlantic for six years. Nickolas retired after more than three decades in the transportation industry, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and generosity.

Outside of work, Nickolas found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, spending time with his family, going to the races to watch the stock cars, and enjoying the outdoors. He especially loved fishing and tinkering with various projects. Whether it was a quiet day in the garage or a ride through the countryside, Nickolas appreciated every moment.

Family meant everything to Nickolas. He married Lisa Hess, and together they built a loving home in Harlan, Iowa. Nickolas was especially proud of his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his kids and grandkids. He even took them on some of his longer hauls, including memorable trips to Canada.

Nickolas passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025 in Harlan, Iowa attaining the age of 65 years and 10 days. He was preceded in death by his mom, Bonnie Durnan; brothers, Dave and Robert and sister, Ann.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Lisa Hess of Harlan, IA; children, Candi (T.C. Carter) Hess of Fulton, MO, Mindy Hess of Fulton, MO, Brad (Katelyn Deeds) Hess of Harlan, IA, Brandon (April Staudt) Hess of Marble Rock, IA, Lexee (Tyler Keeling) Hess of Clarksville, IA, Ava Tyler of Waterloo, IA; step-children, Scott Swank of Pomona, KS, Emily Swank of Jacksonville, TX; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild and one on the way; step-father, Mike Durnan of Arlington, IA; siblings, Don Dales, Rhonda Dales and Grace Durnan other relatives and friends.

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11/11/2025

🇺🇸11 NOVEMBER 2025🇺🇸

Today, and every day, we hold close the memories of the brave men and women who answered the call to serve. Their courage, sacrifice, and love for country continue to inspire us all.

At Pauley Jones, we are especially mindful of the families who have known the weight of that sacrifice — the parents, spouses, children, and loved ones who have supported their hero and, in many cases, said a difficult goodbye. Your strength and devotion are a testament to the same spirit that makes our nation strong.

We honor not only our veterans but also those who carry their legacy in their hearts. May we never forget their service, their stories, and the freedom their sacrifice has given us.

❤️🤍💙 With gratitude and remembrance, we thank you.

11/10/2025

Daniel Leonard Loveland

Daniel Leonard Loveland was born on May 4, 1944 in Fort Collins, Colorado, to Lyle B. and Eileen Elizabeth (Leonard) Loveland. He grew up in Colorado and was raised in the Catholic faith. After completing his schooling, Dan proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, earning a general discharge.

Dan worked in Colorado but moved to Harlan, Iowa around 1970. He married the love of his life, Judy, on July 19, 1974, in Harlan, Iowa. Together they built a life filled with love for one another.

Dan worked for many years as a painter out of Red Oak, Iowa and spent much of his career traveling on the road to various job sites. This was a trade in which he was well-known and respected. Many knew him simply as “Painter.” He took great pride in his work. Unfortunately, Daniel’s time as a painter came to an end after an accident on the job site several years ago and he had to retire.

When he wasn’t working, Dan enjoyed simple pleasures such as collecting small trucks, spending time at home, and watching court TV.

Daniel passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 in Harlan, Iowa attaining the age of 81 years, 6 months and 1 day. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Eileen Loveland; his wife, Judy Kay Loveland; son, Leon Loveland; and siblings.

He is survived by his daughter, Tammy Loveland; son, David Loveland; stepson, Richard Taylor and several grandchildren.

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11/09/2025

Duane Robert Smith

Duane Robert Smith, son of Merlin and Vera (Patefield) Smith, was born on July 4, 1945, in Laurel, Nebraska. He was one of eight children. On May 31, 1956, he was baptized in his home in Wakefield, Nebraska by a Presbyterian minister. He was confirmed on June 21, 1986 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, Iowa where he remained a lifelong member.

In Duane’s younger years, he lived on a farm in Laurel, Nebraska with his parents and siblings until 1955 when the family moved to Wakefield and Stanton, Nebraska. In December of 1958, the family moved to Audubon, Iowa. In 1970, Duane and his brother James moved to Denison, Iowa, where they were with WESCO. They shared an apartment and worked at Dubuque Packing Company until it closed in 1992, then he worked part time for Millard Refrigeration. In 1982, his parents retired and moved to Denison, where they bought a home and lived with Duane and James until their deaths, Merlin in 1993 and Vera in 2009.

Duane retired in 2007 and would spend his afternoons at HyVee drinking coffee. He was a faithful member of his church. He loved to go camping, spending time at the cabin in Lake View, fishing in the summer and bowling in the winter with the WESCO bowling league.

In January 2025, Duane moved to Denison Care Center where he passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025, attaining the age of eighty years, four months and 4 days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Roger Smith, and Eugene and his wife Linda Smith, nephew, Nicholas Smith, grandniece, Elizabeth Hansen, brother-in-law, Gary Hocamp, sister-in-law, Zelda Smith, grandparents and aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his siblings, Judith and her husband Leon Thompson of Audubon, Iowa; Marilyn Hocamp of Exira, Iowa; Larry Smith of Carroll, Iowa; James Smith of Denison, Iowa; Ronald and his wife Debra Smith of Denison, Iowa; nieces and nephews, other family members, and friends.

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11/08/2025

Douglas Jacobsen

Douglas Dean Jacobsen, was born on February 23, 1946, in Council Bluffs, Iowa to his parents Fred and LaVerne (Kahl) Jacobsen.

He grew up on the family farm east of Hancock. Attended grade school in Hancock and when he was a freshman he went to AvoHa High School in Avoca, Iowa. He graduated from there with the class of 1964.

After high school, he held a variety of jobs. The one he enjoyed most was working for the Northside Animal Hospital in Avoca with Doctors Robert Wunder and Roy Schultz. He also enjoyed the work at the Avoca Sale Barn on Fridays. In October of 1965, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and received an honorable discharge from the Army in July of 1967.

Doug and Kathy were married on April 21, 1968. In 1969, they moved to Shelby and raised their three children: Joel, Andrea and Emily. Doug farmed and worked as a rural mail carrier, retiring in 2014. After retirement, he enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s activities, helping with harvest, fishing and hunting.

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, Doug passed away having attained the age of 79 years, 8 months and 16 days. He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and LaVerne and his siblings.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 57 years, Kathy Jacobsen, of Hancock, Iowa; children Joel and wife Trina Jacobsen of Shelby, Iowa; Andrea Johnson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Emily Jacobsen of Council Bluffs, Iowa; 3 grandchildren: Chase Johnson, Abigail Jacobsen, and Broedy Johnson; other family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the Hancock and Minden Fire Departments.

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11/06/2025

🕊Annual Service of Remembrance🕊

The holiday season can be a tender time, especially when we are missing those who hold a special place in our hearts. We invite you and your family to join us for our Annual Service of Remembrance — a time to reflect, remember, and celebrate the lives of the loved ones we have lost this past year.

Together, we’ll share moments of peace, comfort, and hope through music, words of reflection, and the gentle glow of remembrance.

Please take a moment to fill out the RSVP form to let us know if you’ll be attending and to order an angel ornament in honor of your loved one.

https://forms.gle/bjUUabCByVX9DYzp8

Avoca Service details:
Sunday, December 7, 2025 - 2:00 PM
Pauley Jones Funeral Home - Avoca, Iowa

Harlan Service details:
Sunday, December 14, 2025 - 2:00 PM
C.G. Therkildsen Center - Harlan, Iowa

We look forward to hearing from you!

11/05/2025

Mervin Nelson

Mervin Rita Rau was born on August 3, 1939, to Gilbert and Lidwina (Eisterhold) Rau at Westphalia, Iowa, the 12th child in a family of 15 children. She was baptized at St. Boniface Church. The family moved to a farm near Portsmouth, where she attended grade school and was confirmed at St. Mary’s Church.

After they moved to a near Manilla, Mervin graduated from Manilla High School. After graduation, she was united in marriage to Walt Schrader and to this union two children were born, Letha and Raymond.

When Mervin lived in Harlan, she held many jobs, working at the Saylor Hotel, Red Lion Restaurant, Harlan Golf and Country Club, and cleaning at the school. She also enjoyed bowling was on the Ladies’ Bowling League for several years.

Mervin was married to Ron Corbin and they later relocated to Texas. After Ron’s death she married Richard “Nels” Nelson, the love of her life, in Kerrville, Texas. Mervin and Nels spent many years traveling and visiting relatives. A highlight was their trip to Alaska. When they were at home they enjoyed walking together, sometimes 5 miles a day and spending time with family and friends. Mervin was very social and enjoyed being with people and had a great sense of humor.

She passed away quietly at Elm Crest Retirement Home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, attaining the age of eighty-six years, 3 months and one day. She was preceded in death by her parents, several siblings, her daughter and granddaughter.

She is survived by her husband, Richard “Nels” Nelson of Harlan, Iowa; son, Ray Schrader of Mountain Home, Texas; siblings, Martha Bissen of Harlan, Iowa, Verla Mumm of Earling, Iowa, Patricia Kuether of Pierce, Nebraska, and Judy (Richard) Jones of Omaha, Nebraska; stepchildren; nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

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