Carroll County, Missouri Genealogy Trails

Sara Helen Baird, age 88, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Thursday, March 9, 2006 at the Life Care Center, Carrollton, Missouri. She was born November 3, 1917 in Carroll County, Missouri, the daughter of Joseph W. and Effie Ann Staton Baird. She graduated from Carrollton High School. She was a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. Sara was a member of the First Christian Church of Carrollton, Women’s Club and the Telephone Pioneers. She had received a Lassie Award for her care and works with stray animals and had worked with local veterinarians finding homes for abandoned dogs and cats. Sara is survived by several nieces and nephews. Her parents and one sister, Marian Bowles, preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri, with Reverend Joe Barone officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri. Visitation will be at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, prior to service time at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society in memory of Ms. Baird. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Norma Lightfoot Baker, born September 23, 1937, Carrollton, Missouri to Alvin Lester Lightfoot and Naomi Pauline Gilmer Lightfoot, passed away August 5, 1995 in Las Vegas, Nev. after a short bout with cancer. Norma was very artistic and talented. Her many beautiful handmade gifts to those she loved will be treasured by all those who received them. Norma was preceded in death by her mother, Naomi Pauline Lightfoot. She is survived by her husband, Al Baker; father, Alvin L. Lightfoot; sister, Juanita L. Young; brother, Paul E. Lightfoot; nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and -nephews. A memorial service was held at Nathan Adelson Hospice in Las Vegas, on Friday, August 11. Norma will be greatly missed by her family and her friends.

Steven Shibley Ball, 51, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at the University of Missouri Hospital, Columbia, Missouri. Steve was born July 17, 1954 in Aurora, Illinois, the son of Harry Edmond Ball, Jr. and Frances Anne Shibley Ball. He graduated from Carrollton High School in 1972 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from the University of Missouri-Columbia, in 1976. Steve worked for Williams Pipeline Company, Tulsa, Oklahoma, for 23 years. He was recognized for his many contributions when he received an honor award from the University of Missouri for Distinguishing Service and Engineering. Steve was selected to complete the Executive Program for Management Development at Harvard University and had been the Senior Vice President and General Manager when he left The Williams Companies. Steve was a member of the First Baptist Church of Carrollton, had earned the title of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, and had coached many youth sports. Steve is survived by his daughter Kristin Leigh Ball, 22, of Dallas, Texas; his son Eric Haines Ball, 20, of Los Angeles, California; his brother Robert Ball and wife Colleen, of Leawood, Kansas; and his parents, Bud and Anne Ball, of Carrollton, Missouri. His grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Shibley and Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Ball, preceded him in death. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 25, 2006 at the First Baptist Church, Carrollton, Missouri, with Reverend Jeff Maxwell officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m., until the service time on Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the University of Missouri, Columbia, Department of Neurology, Attn: 1 Hospital Drive D.C.,066.00, Columbia, Missouri, 65212.

Peter M. Bargold, age 82, of Irving, Texas, passed away Saturday, April 19, 2008 at Baylor University Medical Center. Peter was born July 9, 1925 in Chariton County, Missouri, the son of Joseph, Jr. and Lorene Walden Cary Bargold. On November 19, 1955 he married Florence Irene Thomas. She preceded him in death on May 22, 2000. Peter was a press brake operator for Allcorn Steel Industries. Peter is survived by one step son, Robert Denzel “Denny” Kinsey and fiancé Jennifer Renee, Irving, Texas, one daughter-in-law, Angelika Shirley, DeWitt, Missouri, six grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. His parents and one brother, John, also preceded him in death. Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, 2008 at Pleasant Park Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri, with Reverend Lanny Lybarger officiating. Visitation will be from 12:30-1:15 p.m. at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri, prior to the service on Thursday. The family suggests contributions be made to the family’s choice in memory of Mr. Bargold. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633. Condolences may be sent to the family via Gibson Funeral Homes, Inc. website at www.gibsonfunerals.com and clicking on the obituaries link.

Carl Junior Barlow, age 71, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Thursday, May 15, 2008 at Carroll House. Carl was born April 10, 1937 in Hale, Missouri, the son of Harley Herbert and Ila Pearl (Hamlet) Barlow. He graduated from Hale High School. On September 3, 1994 he married Vickie L. Miller in Jacksonville, Florida. She preceded him in death on June 23, 2007.
Carl worked as a painter in Florida and in maintenance for Banquet Foods in Carrollton. He was a member of the Southside Baptist Church in Carrollton, and assisted as a volunteer at Carroll House. Carl is survived by two daughters, Sandy Boyd and husband Otis, Marietta, Georgia, Peggy Payne, Marietta, Georgia, one son, Jeff Barlow, Douglasville, Georgia, six sisters, Wanda Simpson, Shawnee Mission, Kansas, Ada Figg and husband Larry, Hale, Missouri, Minnie Franklin, Marceline, Missouri, Mary Bell, Liberty, Missouri, Margie Gilmer and husband Gary, Carrollton, Missouri, Reva Standley and husband Lester, Carrollton, Missouri, and one brother, Herb Barlow and wife Dixie, Warsaw, Missouri. His parents, five sisters, Fern Toomay, Eula Young, Margaret Warren, Helen Boley, Ruby Wing, and one brother, Ralph Barlow, also preceded him in death. Graveside services will be held at a later date.
The family suggests contributions be made to Gibson Funeral Home in memory of Mr. Barlow. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Richard E. Bates, age 77, of Carrollton, Missouri passed away Monday, March 1, 2004 at his home. He was born August 8, 1926 in Carrollton, Missouri, the son of William and Racheal Viola Wakefield Bates. He attended Carrollton Grade School. He was a Truck Driver and Farmer. Richard is survived by one daughter, Ricki R. Bates, Lake Ozark, Missouri; four step-sons; Charles Edward Williams, Dallas, Texas, Lonnie Williams, Gaithersburg, Maryland, Stephen Williams, State of Delaware and Scott Williams; three brothers, Vernon Bates, St. Peters, Missouri, Floyd Leroy Bates, St. Charles, Missouri, Johnny Bates, Elsberry, Missouri; one sister, Lola Jean Freeman, Bastrop, Louisiana; two grandsons, Shay-Austin Bates and James Tarron Bates, Lake Ozark, Missouri; two step-grandsons and four step-granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers and two sisters in infancy; and one sister, Virginia Fisher and one brother, William Bates. Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, March 4, 2004 at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri with Reverend Bert Hughes officiating. The family suggests contributions be made to the family’s choice in memory of Mr. Bates. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Leon G. Beck, 89, a longtime resident of Alamogordo, New Mexico, died, March 3, 2005, at his home. Mr. Beck was born January 4, 1916 in Norborne, Missouri to John William and Grace May (Fulcher) Beck. He was a graduate of William Jewel Baptist College in Liberty, Missouri, and did graduate studies at the University of California. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, and retired as a management analyst from civil service at Holloman AFB in 1971. Following his retirement he sold real estate for several years. He was one of the founders of Otero Federal Credit Union and was an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, the Alamogordo Senior Center where he delivered Meals on Wheels, and the Share Table at Grace United Methodist Church. A longtime member of Grace United Methodist Church, he recently became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Survivors include his wife of nearly 63 years, Edith Beck of New Mexico; two daughters, Cheryl Dalley of Riverton, and Janet (Earl) Best of Layton; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, brother-in-law, Joseph K.(JoAn) Pidd of Gold River, CA; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Paul Kenneth and Charles William Beck; and son-in-law, Gary Dalley. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, March 9, 2005, 2:00 p.m. in the Broomhead Funeral Home 12590 So. 2200 W. Riverton, Friends may call iibe hour prior to services. Interment Wasatch Lawn Cemetery.

A former Carrollton resident, Mildred Kinder Beck, age 86, died June 5, 1999, at the Johnson City Medical Center in Johnson City, Tennessee. She was the daughter of Herman and Louise Kracke Kinder. She was married to Avery A. Beck. He preceded her in death on February 23, 1988. She was a member of the Carrollton United Methodist Church and also a member and past president of the Liberty Extension Club. After moving to Johnson City ten years ago, she attended Cherokee United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Fellowship Class and Prime Timers. Survivors include one daughter, Martha Lea Reese and her husband, Jay; two grandchildren, Jennifer Lea Reese and Jay Garst Reese, all of Johnson City; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Edward, Elmer and Eldon. Graveside services were conducted by Reverend Jim West at 2:00 P.M., Thursday, at Carroll Memory Gardens in Carrollton. The family suggests contributions to the Cherokee Methodist Church or the Carrollton Methodist Church in memory of Mrs. Beck. They may be left at or mailed to the Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton.

Margaret Barbara Beckemier, 85, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on November 1, 1999 at North Kansas City Hospital. Margaret, the daughter of George W. and Barbara Karsten; was born on May 22, 1914 in Geneseo, Illinois; growing up in Orchard Farm, Missouri; leaving St. Louis and moving to Kansas City in 1992. She was a Registered Nurse, a graduate of Lutheran Hospital in St. Louis in 1935. Margaret was a long time member of Messiah Lutheran Church in St. Louis where she was a dedicated choir member. She was preceeded in death by her husband of 37 years, Gilbert N. Beckemeier; survivors include 3 daughters, Barbara Marumoto of Torrance, California, Susan Clark of Chicago, Illinois and Christie Beckemeier of Kansas City, Missouri; 3 sons, Gilbert N. Beckemeier Jr. of St. Louis, Missouri, John D. Beckemeier of St. Louis, Missouri and Paul C. Beckemeier of Taylors, South Carolina; 1 brother, Karl Karsten of New Kensington, Penn.; 1 sister, Adelaide Moellenhoff of Fort Collins, Colorado; 21 grandchildren and 7 great- grandchildren. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 6, 1999 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Norborne, Missouri; with visitation from 2-3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Norborne, Missouri. Friends may call 7-8:30 p.m., Friday, November 5, at New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to Messiah Lutheran Church, Music Ministry, ATTN: Kathie, 2846 South Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri 63118. Arrangements NEW SALEM Funeral Home, Independence, Missouri.

Megan Marie Bell, age 16, of Bosworth, Missouri passed away Friday, December 31, 2004, near Bosworth, Missouri. She was born March 9, 1988 in Chillicothe, Missouri, the daughter of Steven Aaron and Joyce Jean Ireland Bell. She attended Bosworth High School where she was a member of the Junior class. She was a member of the Bosworth and Chillicothe Chapter of FCCLA, serving as the Vice President; she was nominated for Homecoming Queen; was active in basketball, softball, and band and was a cheerleader. She also attended Chillicothe Vo-Tech School. She was a member of the Bosworth Baptist Church. Megan is survived by her father, Steve Bell; two brothers, Aaron Bell and wife Megan, and their daughter, Emily Kristine Bell, Bosworth, Missouri, Nickolas Bell and fiancé, Karmen Painter, Bosworth, Missouri; grandparents, Donald and Betty Ireland and Bonnie and Al Richards, all of Bosworth, Missouri; aunts and uncles, Donna and Mike Forest, Bosworth, Missouri, Donnie and Kim Ireland, Mound City, Missouri, Jackie Bell and Sarah, Wichita, Kansas, John Bell, Bosworth, Missouri and Bill Bell and Shelly, Bosworth, Missouri; and several other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Bell, and her paternal grandfather, Jackie Dale Bell. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 3, 2005 at the Bosworth High School, Bosworth, Missouri, with Reverend Bruce Trussell officiating. Burial will be in Big Creek Cemetery, Bosworth, Missouri. Visitation will be from 12:00-1:30 p.m., on Monday before the service at the school. The family suggests contributions be made to the Joyce and Megan Bell Memorial Scholarship Fund in memory of Megan. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Dr. Bedford Hudson Berrey, 80, of 16 Evergreen Tree Dr., Lexington, died Thursday, December 26, 2002 at his home. The memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, December 30, 2002 at the Lexington Presbyterian Church. Dr. Berrey was born April 20, 1922 in Carrollton, Missouri to the late Robert W. and Elizabeth H. Berrey. His wife of 59 years, Marcia Bagley Berrey, five children, Elizabeth Berrey Vernon, Barbara Berrey Howard, Bedford Hudson Berrey, Jr., Michael David Berrey and Christopher Lee Berrey and six grandchildren survive him. Dr. Berrey completed his BS in Medicine from the University of Missouri in 1943. He received his MD from the University of Colorado in 1945. He completed his Internship at Kansas City General Hospital and his residency in Pediatrics at the Denver Children's Hospital. This was followed by a Pediatric Fellowship in adolescent medicine at the Oschsner Clinic and Tulane University, New Orleans, La. He was certified by the American Board of Pediatrics in 1950 and was a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Berrey served 26 distinguished years in the U.S. Army where his posts included Assistant Army Attach at the American Embassy in New Delhi, India from 1963 to 1965, the Office of the Surgeon General of the Army from 1965 to 1970 and as Health Director for the Canal Zone Government, Panama Canal Zone from 1973 to 1976. During his army career Dr. Berrey was decorated with numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters. Dr. Berrey retired from active duty at the rand of Colonel. While on active duty he was an active member of the American Academy of Medical Directors and a charter member of the American College of Physician Executives. Col. Berrey's professional military education included the Army AMEDD advanced course, the Command and General Staff College and various other courses. He received his MA in International Relations from American University in 1969. After retirement from the Army Dr. Berrey served as Deputy Assistant Chief Medical Director for Extended Care, Veterans Administration, Washington, D.C., as Health Director, Peninsula Health District and City of Newport News, Va., Assistant State Health Commissioner for Health Care Programs, Virginia State Health Department and as Medical Director, National Alliance of Senior Citizens, Inc. Dr. Berry was widely published in medical journals such as Journal of the American Medical Association, Medical Opinion and Review, and Military Medicine. Dr. Berry was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity, Phi Beta Pi Medical Fraternity, Hancock Lodge, Scottish Rite, ABOUSAAD Temple-Shrine and the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honorary Society. In addition to his professional activities, Dr. Berrey contributed significantly to the needs of his community. He was a member of the Long Range Planning Committee, Board of Directors, Stonewall Jackson Hospital; a member of the Board of Directors, Rockbridge Area Hospice and a member of the Board of Directors, United Way of Lexington and Rockbridge County. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be sent to the Rockbridge Area Hospice, Lexington, Va. Harrison Funeral Home will be handling arrangements.

Fanchion J. Bell, age 77, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Thursday, February 21, 2008 at Carrollton Life Care Center. Fanchion was born May 22, 1930 in Carrollton, Missouri, the daughter of Bob and Nannie (Burton) Cary. She graduated from Carrollton High School. She was a member of the Carrollton Assembly of God Church. She had worked at Banquet Foods, Peter’s Orchard in Waverly, Missouri, and was a Nurse in Independence, Missouri. On March 28, 1953 she married Paul Bell in Marshall, Missouri. He survives at the home.
Fanchion is also survived by one step-son; James Bell, State of Idaho; one daughter, DeEtta Hedrick, State of Tennessee; four sisters, Aileen McDonald, Independence, Missouri, Velma Elliott, Excelsior Springs, Missouri, Maxine Byers, Castle Rock, Colorado, Beverly Arnold, Independence, Missouri; three step grandchildren and several step great grandchildren. Her parents, one son, Norman Wheeler, six brothers, Rutherford, Charlie, Kenny, Ercel, Bobby, Herbie, and one infant sister, Carol, preceded her in death. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 25, 2008 at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri, with Reverend Bert Hughes officiating. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri. Visitation was held prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home. The family suggests contributions be made to the Alzheimers Association in memory of Mrs. Bell. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633. Condolences may be sent to the family via Gibson Funeral Homes, Inc. website at www.gibsonfunerals.com and clicking on the obituaries link.

Mary I. Berning, age 76, of Carrollton, Missouri, died February 4, 1999, at the Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born January 15, 1923, near Orrick, Missouri,the daughter of Robert E. and Charlotte Jones Thomas. She worked at the Martin Berning Agency in Carrollton, which she and her husband later owned. She was a member of the Carrollton United Methodist Church. On December 22, 1943, she was married to Glen Berning by Reverend Thomas F. B. Smith in Carrollton, Missouri. He survives at the home.
Other survivors include a son, Bob Berning, and his wife, Kathy, of Marshall, Missouri, and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert K. Thomas and Charles Bernard Thomas. Graveside services were conducted by Reverend Lawrence Holt at 1:30 P.M., Monday, February 8, 1999, at the Carroll Memory Gardens. The family suggests contributions to the American Cancer Society in memory of Mrs. Berning. They may be left at or mailed to the Gibson Funeral Home in Carrollton.

Orville Glen Berning, age 84, of Carrollton, Missouri, died May 25, 1999, at the Vincor Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born December 1, 1914, near Norborne, Missouri, the son of Martin and Jeanne Downing Berning. At the age of three he was given to his grandmother and grandfather, Bill and Anna Berning to be raised. He began school at Weatherholt School south of Norborne, and graduated from Norborne High School in 1933. He worked for the Lacrosse Lumber Company under the supervision of Artie Warren. After three years, he transferred to Marshall, and worked for a year before enrolling in Missouri Valley College. He graduated with a degree in Business Administration. After graduation he signed up for an Officers' Training Course in the Naval Reserve. In January, 1942, he was called to Northwestern University in Chicago for Naval Training. He graduated from the reserve as First Lieutenant and was sent immediately to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to catch his ship to New Caledonia, where he served as a fuel deliverer for the ships in the area. He was below the equator for nine months before returning to the states for additional equipment. He later returned to New Caledonia for another nine months. In December of 1943, he had a week's leave at which time he married Mary Irene Thomas. She preceded him in death on February 4, 1999. After the marriage, he joined his ship. He was transferred from the USS Sabine to the AOG 65 as Navigating Officer. After seven months he was returned to the States to outfit the AO 25 which was a new attack transport, and when he was finished, he was shipped through the Panama Canal back to Hawaii where ships were gathered for an attack on Nagasaki. While in route, the atomic bomb was dropped on Heroshima which ended the war. He had accumulated leave for immediate shipment back to the United States. He arrived in San Diego and visited his mother for a few days before continuing the trip home on December 1, 1945. He then went into business with his father who owned the Martin Berning Insurance Agency which also handled real estate, and prepared income tax returns. He continued in the business as an income tax specialist until January 1, 1985. While in business, Glen belonged to the Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Carrollton Country Club, and in 1957, took his degrees into the Shrine and was a member of the Ararat Temple of KC. He was also a member of the Methodist Church. On March 14, 1946, he and his wife had a son, Robert Martin Berning. He and his wife, Kathy, survive in Marshall, Missouri. Other survivors include a half-brother, Wallace Dale Berning, Minot, North Dakota; two half- sisters, Phoebe Ann Shepard, Leawood, Kansas, and Ruth Mary Scott, Chula Vista, California, and a granddaughter, Lori Graveside services will be 1:30 P.M., Friday, May 28, at Carroll Memory Gardens, Carrollton, conducted by Reverend Lawrence Holt. The Carrollton VFW will conduct Military Services. Visitation will be from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M., Thursday, with Masonic Services at 8:00 P.M., at the Gibson Funeral Home in Carrollton. The family suggests contributions to the American Diabetes Association in memory of Mr. Berning.

Phillip Louis Biesemeyer, 90, of Mountain Grove, Missouri, died Thursday, February 11, 1999, at the Autumn Oaks Nursing Home. Phillip was born December 22, 1908, in Grand Pass, Missouri, the son of Fredrick and Fredrika Arnesmeyer Biesemeyer. He received a portion of his education in the Grand Pass School and attended college. He was a farmer. He was a member of the St. Luke's United Church of Christ, Grand Pass, Missouri. Survivors include his wife, Norma, of the home; three sons, Louis Biesemeyer, Mountain Grove, Lawrence Biesemeyer, Bolingbrook, Illinois, Phillip Louis Biesemeyer, Jr., Claremore, Oklahoma; two daughters, Mildred McMellen, Fenton, Michigan, and Anna Leto, Hinsdale, Illinois; eighteen grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. Phillip was preceded in death by his first wife, one sister and four brothers. Funeral services were held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, February 15, 1999, at the St. Luke's United Church of Christ in Grand Pass, Missouri, with the Reverend Keith Stuart officiating. Burial was in the Mount Nebo Cemetery, Grand Pass. The family suggests contributions to the St. Luke's United Church of Christ in memory of Mr. Biesemeyer and they may be left at or mailed to the Gibson Funeral Home, 201 South Main, Carrollton, MO 64633.

Karen L. Bird, age 51, of Orlando, Florida, passed away Monday, February 20, 2006 at her home. Karen was born December 2, 1954 in San Francisco, California, the daughter of William A. Epley, Sr. and Dora Kathryn Brotherton Epley. She attended Carrollton High School. She married David Bird in Orlando, Florida on September 18, 1999. He survives at the home. Karen worked in Apartment Management. In addition to her husband David, Karen is also survived by three daughters, Chris Cardenas, Carrollton, Missouri, Tonya Aldrich, Blue Springs, Missouri, Angie Roades, Satsuma, Florida, two brothers, Keith Epley, Billings, Montana, Tim Shields, Kansas City, Missouri, five sisters, Pamela K. Davis, Carrollton, Missouri, Patricia Milino, Dallas, Texas, Donna Gandhi, Warrensburg, Missouri, Joy Becker, Carrollton, Missouri, Sara Koechner, Liberty, Missouri and nine grandchildren. Her parents and two brothers preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at 1:30 p.m., at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri, with Pastor Jeff Maxwell officiating. Burial will be in Little Adkins-Brotherton Cemetery, Wakenda, Missouri. Visitation will be from 7-8:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 28, 2006 at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri. The family suggests contributions be made to the family’s choice in memory of Karen. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Samuel LeRoy Bell, 45, of Borger, Texas, died Monday, July 22, 1991, at his home. He was a former Carrollton resident. Mr. Bell was born November 5, 1945, in Carrollton, the son of John Samuel and Sylvia L. Mann Bell. He attended Carrollton grade and high school and was married to Carolyn Welch of Akron, Ohio, in November of 1971. He was employed by a drilling company. Survivors include his wife of the home; two daughters, Karmin Samara and Jamie Jacklyn Bell, both of the home; his mother, Mrs. Sylvia Bell, of Carrollton; three brothers, Gary Bell, of Marshall; and Larry Bell and Paul Bell, both of Carrollton; four sisters, Mrs. Pat Hogan, Mrs. Shirley Smith, Mrs Betty Watts and Mrs Janet Summers, all of Carrollton; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Jackie Dale Bell, of Bosworth.

Helen (Mildred) Lucille Berwaldt, age 79, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Carrollton, Missouri. She was born January 1, 1927 in Bates County, Missouri, the daughter of Richard and Hattie Sweger Griffith. She graduated from Ballard High School. Helen married Harold (Pete) Berwaldt on December 12, 1948. He preceded her in death on December 26, 2005. Helen had worked as a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. She had served as a cook for the Carrollton School District and had sold Avon for many years. She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Carrollton, Missouri, where she had served in various capacities. Helen is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Vince and Teresa Berwaldt, Marshall, Missouri, John and Twilla Berwaldt, Ponca City, Oklahoma, two sisters, Nellie Epperson, Mission, Kansas, Sue Shepherd, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and six grandchildren, Kyle, Katelyn, Emily, Lyndall, Nathanael and Terry Jo Berwaldt. Her parents, four brothers, Ted, Chester, Bud and Melvin and one grandson, Lucas Berwaldt, also preceded Helen in death. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 3, 2006 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Carrollton, with Pastor Eric Swyres officiating. Burial was in Carroll Memory Gardens, Carrollton. Visitation was held on Sunday, April 2, 2006 from 7-8:30 p.m., at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton. The family suggests memorials be made to the family’s choice in memory of Mrs. Berwaldt. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Lois Catherine Boelsen, 78, of Richmond, Missouri, formerly of Carrollton, Missouri, died at 12:15 a.m. on August 28, 2008, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehab Center in Richmond, Missouri. Lois Catherine was born November 26, 1929, in Carrollton, Missouri, the daughter of Virgil and Lois (Buckner) Fergason. On June 5, 1949, she was married to Harold Allen Boelsen. For the last five years of Lois Catherine’s life she lived at Shirkey Nursing and Rehab Center at Richmond, Missouri. Lois Catherine was a devoted and caring wife, mother and grandmother who will be remembered by all for her lovely smile and loving heart. She was a 1947 graduate of Carrollton High School, a member of the First Christian Church where she previously served as a Sunday school teacher, youth director, board member and Deacon. In addition, she was active in the Carrollton Girl Scouts where she served as a leader for a number of years, 4-H Club leader and served as past president of the Missouri Association of Mutual Insurance Companies Woman’s Auxiliary. Survivors include her husband, of the home, and two daughters and a son-in-law: Sandra Goodwin and her husband, Lyndon, of Richmond, Missouri, and Janice Boelsen of Blue Springs, Missouri; one grandson, Mark Goodwin and his wife, Jamie, of Richmond, Missouri; two brothers and sister-in-laws, Dr. Virgil Lee and Mary Fergason of Decatur, Illinois, and Charles Harvey and Glenrose Fergason of Carrollton, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral Services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m., Monday, September 1, 2008 at the First Christian Church at Carrollton, with the Reverend Larry Gray and Reverend Cheryl Sanders officiating. Burial will be in Carroll Memory Gardens, Carrollton, Missouri. Friends may call from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. on Monday, September 1, 2008, at the First Christian Church in Carrollton.

Ruby Breidenstein, 95, died Thursday, March 16, 2006. She resided at John Knox Village East in Higginsville. Mrs. Breidenstein was born September 14, 1910, on a farm outside New Cambria, Missouri, to the late Woodrow and Edith Jones Renoe. She is preceded in death by her husband, a sister, and three brothers. A retired teacher, she began her career as an educator in 1927 at the age of 16 in a one-room country schoolhouse outside New Cambria. While a student at Kirksville Missouri Teachers College, she met her future husband, Irwin William Breidenstein, who was Superintendent of Schools at Grand Pass, Missouri. The couple married in 1932 and after five years in Grand Pass, they moved to Novinger, Missouri, where Mrs. Breidenstein resumed her teaching career. She subsequently taught school in Bucklin, Norborne, Wellington and Waverly before retiring in 1970. Although the majority of her teaching career was at the elementary school level, her academic background was centered in library science. She and her husband purchased a farm between Waverly and Grand Pass in 1932 and lived there from 1957 until 1966 when they moved to Waverly. Mr. Breidenstein died in 1980. Mrs. Breidenstein moved to Higginsville in 1999. While a resident of Waverly, she was active in local and civic organizations, including the DAR, Kensington Club and the Garden Club. Mrs. Breidenstein is survived by her daughter, Bonnie Ragland of Bryson City, North Carolina, a granddaughter, Leslie Gattuso of Memphis, Tennessee and two great grandchildren. The funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 19, 2006 at the Waverly Baptist Church, Waverly, Missouri, with Reverend Mike Walker officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time on Sunday at the church. Burial will follow at the Grand Pass Cemetery, Grand Pass, Missouri. The family suggests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Mrs. Breidenstein. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Carmelina Amanda Brewer Zamarripa, age 51, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Monday, August 18, 2008 at Carroll County Memorial Hospital. Carmelina was born April 10, 1957 in St. Louis County Hospital, the daughter of Florentino L. and Sylvia May (Wakefield) Zamarripa. She attended St. Mary’s grade school and attended Carrollton High School.
Carmelina is survived by William Munson, two daughters, Chasity M. Turner, Carrollton, Missouri, Daphne A. Sainsbury, Burnsville, Minnesota; one son, Patrick Gene Hatfield, Paris, Missouri; four brothers, Florentino Zamarripa and Frances Ellen Hinkson, Carrollton, Missouri; Antonio Zamarripa, Carrollton, Missouri; Phil Zamarripa and wife Carolyn, Carrollton, Missouri; Carlos Zamarripa and wife Adel, Eldon, Missouri; four sisters, Gina Nichols and husband Vernon, Jefferson City, Missouri; Estlita R. Wolters, Marshall, Missouri; Tina Bayte, Chillicothe, Missouri; Kathy Ziegler and husband Ralph, Olean, Missouri; and one grandson, Rocky S. Turner. Her parents, and one son, Charlie Hatfield, preceded her in death. Graveside services will be held on Friday, August 22, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at Powell Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri, with Willie Turner officiating.

A former Carrollton, Missouri, resident, Pamela Mary Bewers, age 74, died May 10, 1999, at the Denton Nursing/Rehabilitation Center in Denton, Texas. She was born September 25, 1924, in London, England, the daughter of Arthur Jack and Mary Stockes Reynolds. She was a member of the Carrollton Christian Church. She was married to Brian Dudley Bewers. He preceded her in death on June 22, 1979. Survivors include two sons, Geoffrey Bewers and Michael Bewers. She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant son. Funeral services were conducted by Reverend Joe Barone at 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 14, 1999, at the Gibson Funeral Home in Carrollton. Burial was in Carroll Memory Gardens in Carrollton.
The family suggests contributions to the Christian Church in memory of Mrs. Bewers. They may be left at or mailed to the Gibson Funeral Home in Carrollton.

DeEtte Brockmeier, age 64, a resident of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away at 3:00 pm on Monday, February 18, 2008 at North Kansas City Hospital, North Kansas City, Missouri.
Dee was born on March 30, 1943 in Carrollton, Missouri the first child of Ralph L. and Erma E. (Pasdera) Adcock. On August 6, 1961 she married Carroll Dean Brockmeier at the United Methodist Church in Carrollton, Missouri. Carroll survives of the home. Dee was a 1961 graduate of Carrollton High School. She worked for many years as a sales clerk for JC Penney, Carl's Menswear, and Remedies Pharmacy in Carrollton, Missouri. She was a life long member of the Carrollton United Methodist Church. She was also a member of Child Study Club. She loved her family and especially doting on her grandchildren. Dee is survived by her husband, Carroll; daughter, Pam of Republic, Missouri; son, Ric of Mission Woods, Kansas; three grandchildren, Chelsea Casady, Coleman Brockmeier, and Sophia Brockmeier; mother, Erma Adcock, Carrollton; three sisters, Donna Byrne, of Columbia, Missouri, Lynda Brockmeier, of Carrollton, Peggy Bennett of Kansas City, Missouri; one brother, Roger Adcock of Carrollton, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Her father and brother, Doug Adcock, preceded her in death.. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 11 :00 am at the Carrollton United Methodist Church, with Reverand Rod McNeall officiating. A family visitation will be held on Friday, February 22, 2008 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri. Burial will be at the Carroll Memory Gardens in Carrollton, Missouri. Memorials may be made to H.E.L.P. Services Cancer Fund or to the Carrollton United Methodist Church. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 South Main, Carrollton, Missouri 64633.

Vera May Brockmeier, age 90, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at North Kansas City Hospital, North Kansas City, Missouri. Vera was born October 26, 1917 in Wynoka, Oklahoma, the daughter of Milo B. and Mable (Andrus) Meek. She attended country schools. She married John Henry Brockmeier on October 27, 1938 in Carrollton, Missouri. He preceded her in death on September 20, 1981. Vera was the Head Cook and Dietician for the Carrollton R-VII School District for thirty years. She was a member of the Carrollton United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Rebekah Lodge for a number of years. Vera is survived by five children, Carroll Brockmeier, Carrollton, Missouri, Donnie Brockmeier, Springfield, Missouri, Juanita Hertzog, Holden, Missouri, Danny Brockmeier, Carrollton, Missouri, Patricia Petet, Waverly, Missouri, fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Her parents, two brothers, two sisters, and one daughter-in-law, Dee Brockmeier, also preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 2008, at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri, with Terry Allen Meek officiating. Burial will be in Carroll Memory Gardens, Carrollton, Missouri. Visitation will be at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home. The family suggests contributions be made to the Carrollton United Methodist Church or H.E.L.P. Services Cancer Fund in memory of Mrs. Brockmeier. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633.

Arthur William Buhrmester, age 85, of Carrollton, Missouri, passed away Saturday, December 1, 2007 at his home. Art was born October 30, 1922 in Carrollton, Missouri, the son of Henry and Marie (Steffens) Buhrmester. He attended Lutheran School through the eighth grade and graduated from Carrollton High School. On April 19, 1972 he married Mary Gilbert Cooper in Carrollton, Missouri. She survives at the home. Art was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church and Lutheran Men’s Club of Carrollton and RAO. He had been employed at PAG Seed Company for thirty-eight years, Jacques Seed Company and Norborne Seed Company. He was a Carrollton resident all his life and loved to square dance and play cards.
Art is also survived by four children, Ray W. Cooper, Centralia, Missouri, Steve Cooper, Boonville, Missouri, Dana Cooper, Owensboro, Kentucky, Michael Cooper, Marshall, Missouri, and several grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Carrollton, Missouri, with Pastor Eric Swyres officiating. Burial will be in Carroll Memory Gardens, Carrollton, Missouri. Visitation will be from 6:30-8:00 p.m., Monday, December 3, 2007 at Gibson Funeral Home, Carrollton, Missouri. The family suggests contributions be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Church Radio Fund in memory of Mr. Buhrmester. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 S. Main, Carrollton MO 64633. Condolences may be sent to the family via Gibson Funeral Homes, Inc. website at www.gibsonfunerals.com and clicking on the obituaries link.

Deena Marie Kitchen Grace-Burkett, age 48, a resident of Buckner, Missouri, passed away Friday, March 7, 2008 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Blue Springs, Missouri. Deena was born October 2, 1957 in Carrollton, Missouri the daughter of Richard E. and Violet Roseanna Grant Kitchen. On October 1, 2004 she was united in marriage to William Sherman Burkett in Independence, Missouri. He survives of the home. Deena attended school in Independence, Missouri and Hamilton Business College. She was a housewife. She attended the Pentecostal Church. Deena is survived by her husband, William, her parents Richard and Violet Kitchen of Independence, Missouri, two children Katherine Roseanna Grace of Oak Grove, Missouri, Charles Gregory Grace of Oak Grove, Missouri, three step-children Christian Stephen Burkett, Seattle, Washington, Brandon William Burkett, Grandview, Missouri, Ashlynn Joanne Burkett, Grandview, Missouri, a brother Richard Alan Kitchen and wife Jill Denise of Bates City, Missouri, one step-grand-daughter Leah Joy Burkett and numerous other loved ones. Funeral Services were held on Monday, March 10, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Gibson Funeral Home in Carrollton, Missouri, with Reverend Ken Prewitt officiating.
Visitation was from 12:30-1:45p.m. before the service. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery. Carrollton, Missouri. Memorials may be made to Family Choice. They may be left at or mailed to Gibson Funeral Home, 201 South Main, Carrollton, Missouri. Condolences may be sent to the family via Gibson Funeral Homes, Inc. website at www.gibsonfunerals.com and clicking on the obituaries link.