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

01/21/2026

Beverly Jean Barratt

Full Obituary Pending...

She is survived by her children, Mara (Todd) Doerr of Irwin, IA; James Barratt of Audubon, IA; 3 grandchildren, Tommy (Nikki), Samantha (Glenn), and Alexis (Joe); 4 great grandchildren, AJ, Gunner, Maverick, and Audrey; brother, Tom Duke of Arizona.

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01/17/2026

Patricia Jens

Patricia Ann Jens, daughter of Herman and Edna (Maassen) Woltmann, was born on August 19, 1937. She attended Avoca schools and following graduation went to Mercy Nursing School in Council Bluffs, where she obtained her RN degree. She was united in marriage to Herbert Jens on October 19, 1958 at the English Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. Together they raised 3 sons: Curtis, Dwayne and Harley.

Growing up, Patricia lived in Shelby before the family moved to the farm west of Avoca. During her school years she played the saxophone in the band, and basketball, but that time was cut short when she broke her arm riding in the back of the truck. She made life long friends in nursing school. They would hide from the nuns so they could smoke. She continued her nursing career until her second son was born. Being a mother and a farm wife took its toll on her with 3 boys with questionable behavior. She continued to stay active in the church and Legion Auxilary. She enjoyed making jelly, canning, refinishing furniture, freezing bushels of corn, and raising chickens for meat and eggs. With the boys growing up and grandchildren arriving. Herb and Pat made their home in Avoca. Herb still worked on the farm and Pat took a job at the nursing home. Following the death of their son, Dwayne, they moved back to the farm and raised his 3 children. This proved to be quite the challenge but they got it done.

Sweet is a phrase that comes up often when people speak of her. A kind hearted woman always more concerned about the needs of others. Patti had an unwavering faith in God and seemingly unlimited love of people. No one was a stranger for long or turned way. A hard life, well lived, to be cherished by all those she touched. The family said, “A great-grandma is a little girl with gray hair!”

When Herb had his heart attack, Pattie took care of him as long as possible. She lived in Avoca for 8 more years and then moved to Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn for the past 6 months before her passing on Thursday, January 15, 2026, having attained the age of 88 years, 4 months, and 27 days.

She was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Edna; husband Herbert; son Dwayne, and brother Ronald. Left to cherish her memory are her sons Curtis and wife Jackie Jens of Ogden, Iowa; Harley Jens of Hancock, Iowa; 6 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; other family and many friends.

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01/17/2026

Randy Hargens

Randy Lee Hargens was born in Manning, Iowa on November 7, 1954, to Lester and Thelma (Winsor) Hargens. He was one of 5 boys: Richard, Russell, Roger, and Rodney. He attended Manning Schools and then the family moved to Avoca in 1967 and he finished his education at Avoca High School.

Randy was united in marriage to Martha Sampson on January 12, 1975, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca. The wedding was postponed to the next day due to a blizzard. They are the loving parents of 2 children: Ryan and Regina.

Randy worked various jobs including the beef plant in Oakland, and the pork plant in Harlan. His last and longest job before retirement was working at Double S Truck Line. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, and sports. He always enjoyed playing cards and telling a good joke. He loved the thrill of the racetrack and the simple pleasure of a hopeful bet. Whether he was watching a game or scratching a ticket, he loved the anticipation and the fun believing that today might be his lucky day. Randy was a kind-and soft-hearted man who found simple joy in good company and a cold beer.

On Thursday evening, January 15, 2026, Randy passed away at the Cass County Memorial Hospital in Atlantic, having attained the age of 71 years, 2 months and 8 days. He was preceded in death by his parents Lester and Thelma; brothers Robert and Eugene; sister Karen in infancy; niece Jessica Hargens and her son Maurice; brothers-in-law Robert, John, James “Auggie”, Walt and Joseph “Pete”; sisters-in-law Mary and husband Tommy, and Darlene; nephew Ronnie; and mother and father-in-law LeRoy and Edna Sampson.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Martha Hargens of Walnut, Iowa; son Ryan and wife Brenda Hargens of Atlantic, Iowa; daughter Regina and husband Chad Hansen of Avoca, Iowa; 4 grandchildren: Austin Alff, Hannah and husband Mason Goergen; Connor Hansen and Darian Hansen; brothers Rick Hargens of Avoca, Iowa; Russell and wife Tina Hargens of Avoca, Iowa; Roger and wife Beth Hargens of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Rodney and wife Denise Hargens of Avoca, Iowa; in-laws Dave and wife Carol Sampson of Hancock, Iowa; Wayne Sampson of Underwood, Iowa; Arnie and wife Carol Sampson of Pikeville, North Carolina; Susan Libby of Walnut, Iowa; Kay Sampson of Walnut, Iowa; Barb Sampson of Avoca, Iowa; Margaret Sampson of Elliott, Iowa; many nieces and nephews, other family and many friends.

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01/15/2026

Rita Mary Doran

Rita Mary (Goetz) Doran was born on June 5, 1927, at the Goetz family farmhouse east of Westphalia, Iowa, to Joseph Bernard Goetz and Antonia (Schechinger) Goetz. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, where her faith was nurtured and remained an important part of her life.

Rita attended St. Boniface Catholic School through the eighth grade and later earned her GED in 1977. Throughout her life, she was a devoted member of several Catholic parishes, including St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, All Saints Church in Des Moines, St. Peter’s Church in Defiance, and St. Michael’s Parish in Harlan.

On June 5, 1950, Rita was united in marriage to Richard Eugene Doran, Sr. at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia. Following their marriage, Rita dedicated her life to caring for her home and family. She was a hardworking homemaker who enjoyed gardening, baking, sewing, knitting, and crocheting. Rita also worked part-time at the Harlan Motel in 1972.

Rita and Richard made their home in the Des Moines area after getting married, later moving to a farm near Irwin for several years. They then lived in Corley from 1960 until 1980, when they built a home west of Corley. Rita remained there, continuing to create a warm and welcoming home for her family, until moving to Elm Crest Assisted Living and later the Elm Crest Nursing Home.

Rita passed away peacefully at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 attaining the age of 98 years, 7 months, and 9 days. She was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Antonia Goetz; her husband, Richard Eugene Doran, Sr.; and her brothers, Walter Goetz, Gerald Goetz, Mike Goetz, and Tony Goetz.

She is survived by her children: Richard (Carol) Doran of Harlan, IA; Colleen Ashmore of Denison, TX; Ralph (Shirley) Doran of Harlan, IA; Carolyn (Roy) Haynes of Midland, TX; Ron (Linda) Doran of Plano, TX; Randy (Ann) Doran of Harlan, IA; and Shirley Ann Doran of Kansas City, MO; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Elaine Goetz of Harlan, IA; along with other relatives and friends.

Rita will be remembered for her strong faith, dedication to family, and the quiet love she shared through a lifetime of service to others.

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01/14/2026

Kenneth Nielsen

Kenneth Allan Nielsen, born on January 29, 1943, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Helen (Nelson) and Orval Nielsen. Kenneth shaped his life around hard work, integrity, and a connection to the soil that sustained him. Kenneth spent his early years moving towns, such as, Adair, Stuart, Avoca, and Walnut, navigating life while his father served in the military; and attended schools in Adair and Walnut. With a heart set on adventure, he left the family farm and found his way into the trucking industry. Driving for Jim Suhr, Kenneth traveled all over the United States transporting cattle – a job that marked the beginning of a fruitful career in agriculture.

After marrying Judith Brown on March 30, 1963, at the United Methodist Church in Hancock, and having Jeff and Sherry, the two later divorced but worked together in their family business. Kenneth worked diligently for Gerald Jones and Gene Sorensen as a hired hand. He worked for Al Schirm and later partnered with Jerry Zimmerman in selling Golden Sun Feed, building grain bins, and selling hardware supplies before establishing his enterprise, Walnut Farm Supply. Kenneth made quite a name for himself and became a respected figure in the farming community. In his later years, Kenneth found joy in golfing, enjoying the game as a pastime that brought him pleasure and relaxation.

On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Kenneth passed away at Myrtue Medical in Harlan, having attained the age of 82 years, 11 months and 15 days. He joins his beloved parents, Helen (Nelson) and Orval Nielsen, in eternal rest, along with his daughter Sherry Sandbothe, granddaughter Jennifer Sandbothe and brother Larry Nielsen, who predeceased him.

Kenneth is survived by his son, Jeff Nielsen of Walnut, Iowa, along with his three grandchildren, Eric Sandbothe, Bailey (Josh) Schaben, and Hunter (Faith) Nielsen; seven great-grandchildren, who will hold fond memories of their grandpa close to their hearts and his sister Karen Blum of Harlan, Iowa.

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01/12/2026

Becky Lynn Kleffman

Becky Lynn Kleffman was born on August 25, 1958, in West Point, Nebraska, to Robert Ahlers Sr. and Geraldine Thompson. She was baptized at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Orchard, Nebraska, and later attended St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Portsmouth, Iowa. Becky graduated from Wisner-Pilger High School.

On June 8, 1991, Becky married Glen Kleffman in Wisner, Nebraska. They were married for 31 years and had two daughters, Cheryl and Jamie.Becky dedicated much of her working life to caring for others. She worked as an LPN in Norfolk and later spent many years as a daycare provider, a role that perfectly reflected her nurturing spirit. Her patience, kindness, and gentle guidance left a lasting impact on the many children and families she served.

In her free time, Becky enjoyed crocheting, journaling, painting, and working crossword puzzles. She especially loved seeing her kids and grandkids and treasured every moment spent with them. After retiring in 2004, Becky made her home in Portsmouth, Iowa, where she continued to enjoy the simple pleasures of family, creativity, and quiet moments at home.

Becky passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, attaining the age of 67 years, 4 months, and 15 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Geraldine (Thompson) Ahlers, siblings, Cindy Ahlers and Darin Ahlers.

She is survived by her husband, Glen Kleffman of Portsmouth, IA; daughters, Cheryl (Jeremiah) Bieker of Harlan, IA, Jamie (Dylan) Barrett of Shelby, IA; 7 grandchildren, Rory, Eden, Hayes, Jude, Briggs, Odin, Parker; siblings, Robert Ahlers of Winside, NE, Audrey (Dean) Partridge of St. Joseph, MO, Dan Ahlers of Mr. Carmel, PA, Vicki Finkral of Battle Creek, NE, Brenda Summers of Norfolk, NE, Sally (Kevin) Baldridge of Omaha, NE, Randy Ahlers of Plattsmouth, NE, Janet (Al) Ahlers of Madison, NE, Glen (Hollie) Ahlers of Norfolk, NE, Denise (Billy) Czapla of Columbus, NE, Kristi (Craig) Morrison of Norfolk, NE, and Bonita Ahlers of Norfolk, NE; other relatives and many friends.

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01/07/2026

David "Pete" Peters

David 'Pete' Peters, age 75, passed away on January 7th, 2026, at St. Anthony Nursing Home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born to LaVern and Evelyn (Savery) Peters on January 5th, 1951, in Denison, Iowa. David attended school in Denison and graduated High School in 1969. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a military policeman from 1971-1973.

He was united in marriage to Joette Molony on May 5th,1974 and they were blessed with three children, Jill, Nicole & Joe. He was a devoted father and found his greatest joy in coaching little league sports and being the loudest supporter for all his kids' various activities. He loved collecting baseball cards and sports memorabilia, playing cards with friends and cheering on his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes. Those who knew him will always remember his one liners and husky voice and the pride he had in his family.

David began his professional career in 1972 at General Electric in the Plastics Fabrication Department. During a 20-year tenure with GE, he worked his way into a manager role. In 1995, he transitioned to Farner-Bocken as a Route Driver and later became the Loss Control Supervisor where he retired in 2016.

David dedicated his life to the military, family, friends, and sports and was known for his iron will and quick wit. He will be forever missed and always remembered. His legacy lives on through the love he gave and the lives he touched.

He is survived by his children, Jill Peters of Carroll, IA; Nicole Peters of Glidden, IA; Joe (Megan) Peters of Waukee, IA; 4 grandchildren, Kailey (Tyler) Bruns, Sadie Groszkrueger, Sloane Peters and Jett Peters; 2 great granddaughters, Aubrie and Chloe Bruns; siblings, Deborah Knowles of Denison, IA; Cathy Jacoby of Denison, IA; Kristine (Bob) Lawson of Georgetown, KY and many other family members and friends who loved him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Evelyn; wife, Joette; siblings, Joe Groth, Mike Groth and Patricia (Groth) Webster and in-laws, Marietta "Etta" Molony and Joe Molony.

Following the services, we will be gathering in fellowship at Majestic Hill Golf Course in Denison to share memories, stories, to laugh, to cry and remember a wonderful person who is greatly missed.

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01/06/2026

Sheila Kroll

Sheila Joy Kroll, born on September 15, 1955, to Allen and Joyce (Evans) Blumer, Sheila grew up with a deep commitment to caring for others. After graduating from Tri-Center High School, she pursued her calling in healthcare, graduating from the Jennie Edmundson School of Nursing to begin a lifelong journey as a healer.

On December 1, 1979, Sheila was united in marriage to Ronald Kroll in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they built a life centered on family. She was a devoted mother to Renae and Ashley. One of her greatest joys came from being a grandmother to Drew, Brooke, Nolan and Athan. A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Sheila poured her heart into her family and was beyond proud of the paths they chose and the lives they created.

Sheila’s career was defined by a gentle touch and a servant’s heart. She served her community as a Home Health Nurse with the Visiting Nurses Association before expanding her expertise into holistic wellness. As a Licensed Massage Therapist and an Advanced Practitioner of Ortho-Bionomy, she touched many lives through her dedication to physical and spiritual well-being. In 1991, she became the owner and operator of The Wellness Connection in Shelby, with her primary practice being Ortho-Bionomy. In 1996, Sheila became an Advanced Ortho-Bionomy instructor and taught classes throughout Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Sheila officially retired in 2017.

Sheila’s heart for service was woven into the fabric of her community. Whether she was the friendly face working the concession stands during her daughters’ school years or volunteering for local events with Ron, she gave her time freely and without pretense. This spirit of care extended to her home, where she found peace in the earth. An avid gardener, Sheila spent countless hours nurturing her outdoor flowers, transforming her home into a place of beauty. She possessed a "green thumb" and a nurturing spirit.

Sheila is survived by her husband, Ron; her daughters, Renae (Jesse) Lee, Shelby and Ashley (Todd) Denton, Dunlap; her grandchildren, Drew and Brooke Lee and Nolan and Athan Denton; her brother, Doug (Lisa) Blumer of Shelby, and extended family members. She also leaves behind a wide and wonderful circle of friends from every stage of her journey.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Joyce Blumer; her parents-in-law, Clarence and Mary Kroll; and her infant brother, Steven Blumer. Sheila lived by the quiet philosophy that to care for a person is the highest calling one can answer. From the halls of the hospital to the soil of her own garden, she devoted her days to the service of others and the cultivation of beauty. She leaves behind a legacy of 'quiet service'—a life that spoke through actions rather than words, and a spirit that will continue to grow in every life she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the family for their discretion.

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01/05/2026

Marilyn Virginia Dahlof

Marilyn Dahlof

Feb. 2, 1932-Jan. 4, 2026

Marilyn Virginia (Schrader) Dahlof was born to Otto and Golda (Gipple) Schrader on the family farm near Bridgewater, IA, on Feb. 2, 1932. She joined two brothers, John and Dallas. Another brother, Edward, followed four years later.

Attending Carl #2 Country School and helping with chores - milking cows, feeding the chickens and rabbits, gardening, and making hay - kept her busy. Marilyn's lifelong love of reading began in second grade, when she won an award for reading the most books of any student in the county. After graduating from Bridgewater High School, she attended Creston Junior College and began a teaching career - what Marilyn considered her calling - in schools throughout Southwest Iowa. Her impact was evident in the gifts and letters students continued to send her into her 90s.

While teaching in Harlan, she met "one of the Kirkman boys," Donald Dahlof, through mutual friends. Marilyn and Donald's 62-years-long marriage began June 12, 1959, and the couple lived east of Kirkman where they raised their three children. Her days were filled with the work of a farm wife, mother, and substitute teacher. Serving as a 4-H club leader was one of the many ways Marilyn supported her kids' activities.

She was a member of the Redline Church of Christ and took pride in planning the Memorial Day program at the Redline Cemetery. After moving to Harlan in 2021, she attended the Harlan Church of Christ. During the 1980s, she was as a volunteer World Bible School correspondence course instructor with students in Ghana, who she came to call friends.

Through the years, Marilyn shared her gift for words by writing poetry and songs, helping friends and relatives celebrate milestone events. Marilyn and Donald enjoyed traveling with the Commander's Club, and she often provided a travelogue to help fellow Commanders recall trips together.

Later in life, Marilyn returned to her love of the classroom as a teacher's assistant at West Ridge Elementary. Marilyn was an active community volunteer, including at the Baptist Memorial Home (now Elm Crest), where she continued to provide volunteer help even after she became a resident of assisted living.

When she wasn't reading a book, solving word puzzles, or keeping up with friends and family by phone or email, Marilyn tuned in for Iowa State Cyclones football and basketball games and Chicago Cubs games. Her grandkids fondly remember the holiday tradition of "Grandma's grab bag," where they never knew what surprises were in store.

Marilyn died Jan. 4, 2026, surrounded by her children, at the age of 93 years.

Those left to remember Marilyn are her children: Tamara (Kevin) Wishard of Austin, TX; Todd Dahlof of Overland Park, KS; and Trudy (Paul) Gormley of Marion, IA, and grandchildren Lauren Wishard of Woodville, TX; Alexa Gormley (fiancé Jared) of Marion, IA; and Jaclyn Wishard of Austin, TX. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, her parents and three brothers, and grandson Grant Wishard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Harlan Public Library or Relay for Life.

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01/05/2026

Randy Neese

Randy Neese, a proud man with a deep love for his family and the outdoors, passed away unexpectedly at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa on January 4, 2026. He was born on January 15, 1951, to Manford and Novgine (Thompson) Neese, in Phoenix, Arizona. He received his education at Rio Vista Schools in Phoenix, AZ, later earning his GED. This simple man made a life for himself through hard work, eventually retiring from packing plants in Oakland, Harlan, and Omaha after also working in grocery stores and delivering furniture.

Randy was known as "grumpy grandpa" by his family, a title he wore with quiet pride. He was stubborn but dedicated, taking great pride in his yard and caring for it, reflecting his love for nature. He spent many happy hours feeding the birds, attending bird shows, and raising pigeons. Additionally, he loved helping his buddy on his garbage route, showing his willingness to lend a hand any way he could.

Family was important to Randy, and they will miss him terribly. He passed away at the age of 74 years, 11 months, and 20 days leaving behind his beloved wife, Eva Neese of Walnut, Iowa; children, Tammy (Ralph) Thompson of Exira, Iowa; Randy Neese of Coal Valley, Illinois; Danny (Bethany) Neese of Harlan, Iowa; and Ashley (Michael) Chapman of Walnut, Iowa. His legacy continues with 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathy Hightower of Phoenix, AZ, and Karen LaBadie of Mesa, AZ, along with other family members and many friends. Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Manford and Novgine (Thompson) Neese, grandson Avery; and siblings Rocky, Ricky, Terry, Manford, Jenny, and Roy.

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01/01/2026

Brenda Lee Ahrenholtz

Brenda Lee Ahrenholtz was born on March 2, 1964, to Betty (Stuhr) and Lloyd Jensen in Harlan, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, Iowa. She began going to school in Harlan until her family moved. After graduation, she went on to attend Iowa Western Community College where she received her CNA in Nursing. Brenda married David Buttry and they were blessed to have two wonderful boys, Michael and Calvin.

On March 17, 2009, Brenda was united in marriage to Keith Ahrenholtz, and her family grew with three new "bonus" daughters. They made their home in Defiance, Iowa, where they were members of the United Methodist Church. Brenda spent many years as a Certified Nurse's Aide in home healthcare. She also worked at the Shelby County Rosman Glendale Golf Course and the MC Bar and Grille in Earling for many years.

Brenda's favorite "career" was being a doting mother to her children. She also enjoyed being a "Mom" to not only her sons, but many of their friends as well. One of her greatest joys was being "Gigi" to her 13 grandchildren making crafts, spoiling them (especially at Christmas), and most importantly spending time with them. In her free time, Brenda enjoyed finding ways to improve her home. She loved flowers, trees, and anything that created oxygen since she was often short of it, entertaining around the pool, and telling Keith what to do!

Brenda passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at the University of Nebraska Medicine Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Lloyd Jensen, and her brother, Scott Jensen.

She is survived by her husband, Keith Ahrenholtz of Defiance, IA; children, Michael (Kady) Buttry of Papillion, NE; Calvin Buttry (Stephanie) of Granger, IA; Tiffany (Mitch) Wood of Ankeny, IA; Alyssa (Mark) Meier of Waukee, IA; Kimberly (Mike) Huyser of Indianapolis, IN; 13 grandchildren, siblings, Christine Best of St. George, UT; Mike (Adrienne) Jensen of Ivins, UT; sister-in-law, Terry Jensen of Diamond Valley, UT; other relatives and many friends.

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01/01/2026

🪩🎉HAPPY NEW YEAR - 2026🎉🪩

The turning of the year invites us to reflect on lives remembered, love shared, and the strength found in community. We are deeply grateful to the families who entrusted us with their care this past year.

✨May the New Year bring light, healing, and renewed hope.✨

🤍Happy New Year from our family to yours🤍