Woods Funeral Home

Miriam “Petey” Heilmann passed away on June 10, 2020 at age 95. She was a resident of the Pinnacle Care Center in Cedar Falls. Petey was born on November 26, 1924 in Dunkerton, Iowa the daughter of Carl and Eva (Jenson) Hein. She graduated from Dunkerton High School in 1942 and initially worked in the offices of the Rath Packing Company. Petey married Alfred “Fritz” Heilmann on November 18,1945 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank and were blessed with two children, Steven and Vicki. Fritz and Petey owned and operated Heilmann’s Service Station in Dunkerton for more than twenty years, She kept the books. Petey also worked for Peoples Bank and Trust in Dunkerton for many years, and at age 60 passed the test for her insurance license. After retiring she volunteered at Allen Memorial hospital for more than 20 years. She is survived by her son Steven (Merry) and daughter Vicki (Jim Reans), four grandchildren: Jonathan (Kim), Matthew (Christi) Porter, Scott, and Katherine (Peter Bo); three step grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren.

Private Family Funeral Services: 10:00 am Saturday October 3, 2020 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church 904 Bluff Street, Cedar Falls.

Inurnment: Fairview Cemetery Dunkerton, Iowa.

Memorials: may be directed to the family for later designation in care of Vicki Jones, 3309 Mount Vernon Drive, Waterloo, IA 50701.  

Barb Brennan age 61 of Fairbank passed away Thursday June 4, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center in Waterloo due to complications of Covid-19. She was born April 15, 1959 in Cresco, Iowa the daughter of Max and Charlotte (Tonn) McGrane. Barb graduated from Wapsie Valley Community Schools with the Class of 1978. On March 8, 1979 she married Wade Brennan in Independence they made their home in Fairbank where they raised their two children, Joshua and Tonya. Barb was a dedicated wife, homemaker, mother, grandmother and most recently the caregiver for her father, right up until the day she was hospitalized. She enjoyed collecting DVD’s, blankets and small animals as well as going to garage sales. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with family especially her grandchildren. Barb is survived by her husband; Wade, her son; Joshua (Kamie Voges) and her daughter; Tonya (fiance’ Jeremy Yauslin) all of Oelwein, two brothers; Danny (Luan) McGrane of Cedar Falls and Dennis McGrane of Fairbank and her father, Max of Fairbank, 11 grandchildren; Sierra, Dakota, Chloe, Dalton, Kaydence, Katelyn, Dylan, Austin, Kayla, Alana and one great-grandchild; Oakley along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her mother; Charlotte, a sister-in-law; Barb McGrane and a nephew; Carson McGrane.

Celebration of Life: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm with a 10:30 am Memorial Service , Saturday July 11, 2020 at the Fairbank Island Park. Please bring a lawn chair as seating is limited.

Memorials may be directed to the family: in care of Tonya Brennan 303 1st Street NE Oelwein, Iowa 50662

Dave Owens, 88 of Fairbank passed away Tuesday, April 14 at MercyOne Senior Care in Oelwein. He was born April 22, 1931 the son of David and Vera (Terpstra) Owens. Dave grew up in the Colfax area and graduated from the Colfax High School. After High School He enrolled at Iowa Teachers College in Cedar Falls, he graduated from there with a Degree in Teaching. He continued his education at Drake University where he received his Masters Degree. Dave proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 during the Korean War. During his service he was a Parachutist as well as an instructor for beginning Parachutists. Dave married Margaret Meckley on March 23, 1951 in Colfax. Dave and Margaret were lifelong educators, spending the vast majority of their careers and lives in the Wapsie Valley Community School District. Dave started at Wapsie Valley as a High School Principal and soon moved up to the Superintendent position which he held for the next 34 years. He was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Fairbank as well as the Fairbank American Legion. Dave also was the President of the Fairbank Community Club for many years. Dave was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather as well as being a dedicated educator. He is survived by his son Mark (Becky) Owens of Fairbank, two granddaughters; Kara Owens of Atlanta, GA and Gina Owens of Marion. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 67 years, Margaret, his sister Patsy Evans and his brother-in-law Frank Evans and one niece, Katie Darbyshire.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic guidelines restricting gatherings to no more than 10 people there will be a private family graveside service. A Celebration Of Life will be held at a later date at the Fairbank American Legion.

Memorials may be directed to the Fairbank United Methodist Church, the Fairbank, Oran or Readlyn Fire Departments or to the family. Cards may be sent to Mark Owens, 6965 W Ave. Fairbank, Iowa 50629

Wayne Bantz passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 27, 1954 in Waterloo the son of Dallas and JoAnne (Schwake) Bantz. Wayne grew up in rural Fairbank and graduated from Wapsie Valley Schools with the Class of 1972. On March 17, 1973 he married Debra Bailey and they later divorced. While living on the family farm Wayne was a hard worker and always willing and able to help neighbors with work on the farm whether it be baling hay or picking up rocks or whatever else was needed to be done. After graduation he went to work for Deere and Company in Waterloo and worked there for the next 46 years of his life, until retiring in 2019. Wayne loved the outdoors whether it be coon hunting, deer hunting or riding four-wheelers. He also enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino to try his luck, Wayne loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and spending time with all of his family and friends. This past February he was fortunate to be able to travel to St. Lucia with his family and enjoy some warm weather and a nice long ride on a catamaran. Wayne will be missed by so many but he will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his three daughters; Shawn (Chad) McGarvey, Sheila (Justin) Heinze both of Fairbank and Sarah Bantz (Danny) of Evansdale and one son Wyatt Bantz of Fairbank, his grandchildren; Devon McGarvey, Morgan McGarvey, Kaylee Heinze, Dakota Heinze and Drake Heinze, his mother; JoAnne Bantz of Fairbank, two brothers; Wayde (Teresa) Bantz of Dunkerton and Wes (Lori) Bantz of Fairbank, two sisters; Dee Hessletine (Kevin) of Marion and Jalene Bantz (Ken) of Oelwein along with many nieces and nephews. Wayne was preceded in death by his father, his maternal and paternal grandparents, a brother; Wendell and a sister Jeanne.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, August 22, 2020 from 12:00-3:00 pm at the Fairbank American Legion. Everyone that has a Wayne’s Warriors T-Shirt is asked to wear it to the celebration.

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.

Ronald Scott Peine passed away at Unity Point Allen Hospital at the age of 64 on April 2, 2020 with his brother Al at his side. He was born January 17, 1956 in Waterloo son of Wallace Peine and Phyllis (Callies) Peine.

Ron graduated from Wapsie Valley High School in Fairbank with the class of 1974. He worked at John Deere from 1974 until 2013. He retired after 39 years of employment.

Ron was united into marriage to Sue (Sherrer) Peine on August 7, 1976. They have two daughters Kelli Sue and Jamie Lyn.

Ron spent many years taking care of the family farm with his parents, brothers and wife. He enjoyed attending Nascar races and watching them on TV. His favorite drivers were Tony Stewart and Clint Bowyer car #14. Ron also loved going to Las Vegas with his wife. They had a camper and boat in Guttenburg where they spent most of their summer months. He enjoyed hanging out at the campground spending time with his friends and going boating and fishing on the Mississippi. He was a proud Dad and grandpa of his family. Ron also enjoyed “Little Red” his 68 Camaro.

Survived by his wife Sue Peine of Fairbank. Two daughters Kelli (Shawn) Sams of Cedar Rapids and Jamie (Justin) Diers of Sumner. Three grandchildren Briggs, Lilly, and Easton. Along with two step grandchildren Sami and Hunter.

Siblings include Deb (Galen) Heineman, Rich (Carol) Peine, Andrea (Randy) Gerstenberger and Al (Amy) Peine. Three aunts Joyce, Jeannie and Coena. Many nieces and nephews and lots of cousins. Also, his little buddy Romeo.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents Wallace Peine and Phyllis Peine. His brother Dan and his grandparents.

Ron’s family would like to extend a special thank you to family and friends as well as the Unity Point Allen Hospital Cancer Treatment Center, you all are angels.

Funeral Services: 11:00 am Saturday August 15, 2020 with visitation from 9:00-11:00 am at Woods Funeral Home. Due to state and federal guidelines on gatherings regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing is required. Those attending are asked to wear a mask.

Inurnment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Fairbank.

Memorials: may be directed to the family for later designation.

Fill not your heart with pain and sorrow,

But remember me in every tomorrow.

Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles,

I’ve only gone to rest a little while.

Although my leaving causes pain and grief,

My going has eased my hurt and given me relief.

So dry your eyes and remember me

Not as I am now, but as I used to be.

Because I will remember you all and look on with a smile. Understand, in your hearts, I’ve only gone to rest a little while

Dennis Duane Athey, 89 of Oelwein, Iowa died on Saturday February 29, 2020 at his home.  Dennis was born on March 21, 1930, in Quamba, Minnesota son of Paul and Carolyn Athey.  He married Pauline Elizabeth Theis on December 1, 1951, in Mora, Minnesota. Dennis went into the Navy and served from 1950 to 1954 during the Korean War. After returning home he was employed at Rath Packing Company, worked as a painter and was engaged in farming.  He enjoyed frequent family trips to Canada, fishing, hunting, pitching horseshoes, golfing, playing cards , baking delicious pies and telling stories of his time growing up in Minnesota and his Navy life. He was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and served on the Church Board of Elders, he was also a member of the Fairbank American Legion Fortsch-Duffy Post 552. Survivors include: three sons David (Dixie) of Waterloo, Ronald (Deb) of Oelwein, Michael (Dawn) of La Porte City and one daughter; Diane (Chris) Leeman of Tripoli. 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.  Preceded in death by his wife Pauline, an infant daughter Danette, an infant son, Brian; Parents Paul and Carolyn Athey, brothers; Adrian and Daryl, three sisters; Naomi, Lorna and Maxine and a grandson, Adam Bartels.

Funeral Services: 10:30 am Friday, March 6, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Fairbank.

Visitation: 4:00-7:00 pm Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Woods Funeral Home, Fairbank and from 9:30-10:30 am Friday at the church.

Military Rites: Fairbank American Legion Fortsch-Duffy Post 552.

Interment: Fairbank Cemetery.

Memorials: to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the Fairbank American Legion.

Donald William Martins, 93, of Fairbank died Sunday February 23rd at Oelwein Health Care in Oelwein Iowa.  He was born on August 27th, 1926 in rural Luana Iowa, the son of Leska and Alta (Brandtman) Martins .  Donald went to country school at the Grand Meadow No. 3 and graduated from Luana High School in 1950.  He enlisted in the US Army on Jan. 31st 1951.   He served in Germany, being awarded the Army of Occupational Medal and the National Defense Service Medal,  until Honorable discharge in January 1954.  On December 29, 1954 Don was united in marriage to Mary Haberkamp at Immaculate Conception Church in Fairbank.  Don and Mary began farming the Haberkamp family farm along with Mary’s family.  Don’s passion was growing crops and raising livestock, he was a very good steward of the land.  He was an active and very proud member of the Fairbank American Legion for many years.  He served with the color guard in countless parades and at funerals of fallen service members.  In Sept. 2018 he was a member of the Cedar Valley Honor Flight.  Don was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank, where he served on the church board many years. Don’s hobbies included going to tractor pulls, working with cattle, doing field work, and tractorcades.  He was a successful farmer and loved visiting with area farmers and neighbors about all things farm. Don is survived by his son Doug (Janice) Martins of Fairbank: three grandchildren, Garrett, Emily, and Lydia Martins of Fairbank and a sister in law Wilma Haberkamp of Fairbank.  sisters Darlene Nuehring of Postville, Ia.,. Della Cowell of Luana, Ia, a brother Duane (Marlys) Martins of Waukon, Ia. and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Mary Martins, three brothers: Delbert Martins (wife Donna), Delos Martins (wife Donna Mae) and Dwight Martins, a sister, Delores Larson (husband Harry) and brothers in law; Eldred Nuehring and William Haberkamp and a sister in law; Josephine Haberkamp.

Funeral Services: 10:30 am Saturday, February 29, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church , Fairbank, Iowa.

Visitation: 4:00-7:00 pm Friday February 28 at Woods Funeral Home and for one hour before services Friday at the church.

Military Honors: Fairbank American Legion Fortsch-Duffy Post 552

Interment: Fairbank Cemetery

Memorials: to the family for later designation.

Donna Gilliam age 90 of Fairbank passed away Friday, February 14th, 2020 at her home in Fairbank. Donna is survived by her two daughters, Deanna (Greg) Hildebrandt of Rosemount MN, and Jill (Dave Filiatrault) Welsh of Waterloo. She was blessed with 6 grandchildren, Chad Hildebrand and Lisa (Nick) Glatz of Rosemount MN, Amie (Justin) Davie of Fairbank,  Michael (Kylie) Mathews of Saint Paul MN, Joel (Malorie) Hildebrandt of Odenton MD, and John (Stephanie) Welsh of Fairbank.  She was also blessed with 14 great grandchildren Colin, Cameron, Christian, and Cole Glatz, Hannah and Hailey Eitzenhefer, Mary Puffett, Briley and Pierson Davie, Sophia, Levi, Lydia, and Scarlett Mathews, and Willow Welsh. Donna’s family will be holding a celebration of life later this spring to remember her and her late husband, Hubert Gilliam.

Mary Bellis age 96 of Fairbank passed away Monday, February 3, 2020 at MercyOne Oelwein Senior Care. She was born May 16, 1923 in Oelwein the daughter of Adolph and Herma (Minton) Nieman. Mary grew up in Fairbank and attended the Fairbank Public School. After graduating in 1940 she went to the American Institute of Business (AIB) College in Des Moines and earned her degree as a Court Reporter.

Mary moved to Washington, D.C. in 1941 where she married Earl R. Bellis of Randalia, Iowa on February 12, 1943. They had two children, Robert and Carolyn, both born while living in Washington, D.C. Mary worked as a Court Reporter for the Office of Price Administration (OPA), the Department of Navy and the U.S. War College in Washington, D.C. In 1951 the returned to Fairbank because of her father’s failing health. Mr. Nieman was President of the Fairbank State Bank. Earl began working at the bank and eventually took over his father-in-law’s position. In 1950 Mary began working at the bank and remained there for 52 years until she retired in 2002.

Mary was a very active member of the community. She was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and belonged to the LWML (Lutheran Women Missionary League) She was a Ladies Aid member of St. John’s and held many different offices as well as teaching Sunday School for several years. Mary was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Fairbank Community Club. She enjoyed her family and grandchildren, card clubs, bowling and gambling.

Mary is survived by her son Robert (Jean) of Fairbank and her daughter Carolyn McLaughlin of Emeryville, California, two grandsons; Jeff (Julie) Bellis of Dubuque and Ryan (McKayla) of Fairbank, six great- grandchildren; Carsen, Chace and Cain of Dubuque, Blayde, Brylee and Bryar of Fairbank. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Earl and a her son-in-law, Steve McLaughlin.

Funeral Services: 10:30am Friday, February 7, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Fairbank.

Scripture Service: 7:00 pm Thursday, February 6, 2020 at Woods Funeral Home.

Visitation: 4:00-7:00 pm Thursday, February 6, 2020 at Woods Funeral Home and for one hour before services Friday at the church.

Interment: Fairbank Cemetery.

Memorials: may be directed to the family for later designation.

Evelyn Reiter Pfiffner, 90, of Oelwein passed away on January 9, 2020 at her home. Funeral Services wil be 10:30 am Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at Woods Funeral Home and for one hour before services Wednesday at the church. Burial will be in the Fairbank Cemetery.

Evelyn was born on March 9, 1929 in Centerville, Iowa to Loyal and Ruth (Arney) Barnes. Her family moved around a lot in her younger years, attending many different schools and graduating from Dunkerton High School in 1947.  She was united in marriage to Elmer Reiter on February 13, 1948 at St John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank. They lived on the family farm north of Fairbank. Evelyn continued to live there until she moved to Oelwein in 2002. Elmer passed away July 23, 1980. On March 9, 2002 she married Cletus Pfiffner at St. Francis Catholic Church Barclay in rural Dunkerton. Cletus passed away February 15, 2018. Evelyn worked as a bookkeeper beginning in 1960, first for Don’s Truck sales and then Woods Construction she then became the city clerk for the City of Fairbank until retiring in 2000. She loved life on the farm along with helping with the farm work. When she wasn’t working she enjoyed spending time in the kitchen baking with Cletus, Evelyn was known to make one of the world’s best pumpkin bars. She also enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino with friends, feeding and watching the deer and wildlife in her back yard, just being around people but most of all she loved spending time with her family. She was a long time member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank and the Fairbank American Legion Auxiliary. Evelyn believed and would tell her family and friends “Whatever you do have a good time” she had a great life and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Rob (Dawn) Reiter of Oelwein; her step children, Tom (Carolyn) Pfiffner of Waterloo, Matt (Nicki) Ivey of North Hampton, PA, Ken (Marcea Seible) Pfiffner of Waterloo, Teresa Pfiffner of Waterloo, Lisa (Matt) Pfiffner Eaton of Oregan, IL, Linda Wilson of Cedar Falls, Maria Pfiffner of Waterloo and Kathy Pfiffner of Fort Dodge, seven step grandchildren: Elizabeth, Kristina, Emily, James, David, Donovan and Vivian. She was preceded in death by both of her husbands, Elmer and Cletus, three brothers, Larry (Rachel) Barnes, Floyd (Jean) Barnes and Frosty (Alice) Barnes; a sister, Marie (Gene) Cantrell; and her parents.

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.