Robert John Byersdorfer

Robert “Bob” Byersdorfer, age 74 of Fairbank, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. He was born December 27, 1950 in Oelwein the son of Richard and Lucille (Schomer) Byersdorfer. Bob grew up on the family farm south of Fairbank and attended Triumph Rural School through eighth grade before graduating from Jesup Community Schools in 1968.

After high school, Bob was drafted into the United States Army, where he spent most of his service in Alaska. Upon returning home, he worked for Gulf States Plastic in Oelwein before later retiring from John Deere after 19 years of service.

On June 9, 1979, Bob married Pam Pitlik of Mount Vernon and together they made their home south of Fairbank, raising their three sons. Bob enjoyed working and playing on the farm and spending time with his family, especially in the timber along the river. He also loved mowing the lawn and tinkering with anything outdoors. Bob was a member of the Fairbank American Legion and a longtime member of the Fairbank Knights of Columbus. He served on the Wapsie Valley Board of Education and was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he was an active member of the choir.

Above all, Bob was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was extremely proud of his family and his loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Survived by: his wife; Pam, three sons; Adam (Amanda), Benjamin and Caleb (Rosanna) seven grandchildren; Evan, Braden, Jacob, Ilse, Anna Lena, Edgar and Freddie, one brother; Richard (Donna) Byersdorfer Jr. one brother-in-law; Greg (Joyce) Pitlik, one sister-in-law; Andi Covington (Wayne) along with several nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by: his parents, father and mother-in-law; Merrill and Harriet Pitlik
Visitation: 4:00-7:00 PM Monday December 29th at Woods Funeral Home with a 7:00 PM Knights of Columbus Rosary.
Funeral Services: 10:30 AM Tuesday December 30th at Woods Funeral Home.
Military Rites: Fairbank American Legion Fortsch-Duffy Post 552
Interment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery
Memorials: to the family for later designation
Lunch will be served at the Fairbank American Legion following the service.

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Karen Wilkins

Karen Wilkins, 69, of Scottsdale Arizona passed away on October 18, 2025 at HonorHealth Hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

She was born December 22, 1955 in Rochester New York to her parents Albert and Dolores Wilkins.  Karen attended Spencerport High School, Spencerport, New York and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Alfred University in Alfred, New York before going to work at Eastman Kodak.  She loved spending time with her nieces and nephews, and is known for her generous heart and deep love she held for those closest to her.  Her love for animals was witnessed by her dedicated time playing with Sammy the family dog.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by three sisters: Doreen (Harley) Feldberg, Gail (Joe) Bovy, Nancy (Barry) Waldman, 1 nephew, Aaron Feldberg and 4 nieces, Rachael Feldberg, Laina Waldman, Vanessa Waldman, and Jessicia Bovy. 

Interment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Fairbank Iowa

         Donations can be made to the National Autism Association   https://donorbox.org/donations-that-do-more

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Joseph R. Copenhaver

Joseph Robert Copenhaver age 71 of rural Oelwein passed away Sunday, November 30, 2025 at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. Joe was born May 8, 1954 in Oelwein, the son of Kenneth and Cora Jeanne (Halstead) Copenhaver. He grew up in rural Oelwein just north of Fairbank. Joe attended and graduated from Wapsie Valley Community Schools with the class of 1972. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country for four years spending most of that time on the aircraft carrier USS America. Joe worked for various different companies after his enlistment as a forklift operator. The last 13 years he worked for Ryder Logistics in Waterloo, where he retired from just this last October due to his health. When Joe had some free time he enjoyed going fishing but his biggest enjoyment was reading. He always had a book to read and if he didn’t have a new one to start he would just grab one from the hundreds of books that he collected over the years and read it again.

Survived by: one brother, Walt Copenhaver, two sisters; Diane Reeves and Karen (Logan) Buenger along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by: his parents, one brother, George Copenhaver, one sister-in-law, Pat Copenhaver and one brother-in-law, Max Reeves.

No services are planned at this time.

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Dawn M. Johnson

Dawn Marie Johnson age 68 of Fairbank passed away unexpectedly Saturday, November 22, 2025. Dawn was born February 15th, 1957 in Waterloo the daughter of Lyle and Ida Mae (Maxfield) Cue. She grew up in Independence and attended and graduated from Independence Community School with the class of 1975. After high school she enrolled at Hawkeye Community College to pursue a career in nursing, she graduated from there as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Dawn first worked at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids and then at Covenant Medical Center which then became MercyOne in Waterloo, retiring in 2024.

In 1978 she married Bob Johnson, they made their home in Independence. They had two children together, Rob and Mandy. They later divorced. Sometime after that she met Jerry “Goofy” Goeller and they remained together until he passed away in 2022.

Dawn enjoyed spending time with family and friends, baking, gardening, trips to the casino and vacation. She had a special group of friends that she loved to spend time with at Costa’s. They have been a big part of her especially after losing her Life Partner “Goofy”. She will be missed by everyone who knew her, especially by her children who were such a big part of her life.

Survived by: her son, Rob Johnson of Oelwein, her daughter, Mandy (Nathan) Ritter of Hazleton, one grandson, Tayt (Breanna) Johnson of Independence, one sister, Pam (Tom) Searcy of Cedar Falls, one sister-in-law, Kim Cue of Independence and one Brother, Doug Cue of Independence along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by: her parents, one sister, Vicki Yokem, one brother, Jim Cue and her Life Partner, Jerry “Goofy” Goeller.

A Celebration of Life: will be held on December 14th, 2025 at the Fairbank American Legion from 2:00-6:00 PM

Memorials: in lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. A savings account has been set up at Northeast Security Bank in Fairbank.

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Patricia Ann Ryherd

Patricia Ann (DeLong) Ryherd age 90, passed away November 19, 2025, surrounded by family at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. Pat was born February 8, 1935 in Waterloo the daughter of Nathaniel and Gladys (Ackerman) DeLong. She attended school at Hawthorne Elementary in Waterloo, then, later moved to the rural Dunkerton/Dewar area with her parents and three brothers. Pat enjoyed growing up in the country with her brothers. In high school Pat was involved in musical and play events and upon graduation from Dunkerton High School in 1952, married her high school sweetheart, Robert Weber. Bob was in the Marines stationed in Florida. They lived off base in Hialeah, Florida. After Bob finished his service in the Marines, they moved back home to the Jesup /Littleton area to be close to family. Bob and Pat later divorced. On February 12, 2000. Pat married John Ryherd. During their marriage they enjoyed dancing and would do so every chance they got. They also enjoyed spending their winters in Texas. They were married until his death in 2017.

Pat was an accomplished seamstress, she loved sewing. One year she made matching dresses for her three daughters and herself for Easter. Pat helped to establish Girl Scouts in 1962 in Jesup and served in a leadership capacity while her children were in Brownies in elementary, then through Cadets in high school. One of Pat’s favorite hobbies was camping with her young family beginning in 1955. She camped most of her life, beginning with a tent with no floor, then graduating to a motor home and travel trailer. She especially enjoyed fishing with her dad and spending time on or near the water at her parent’s cabins in Otterville or Harpers Ferry.

Pat worked as an aide at MHI and then worked second shift in the restaurant business for most of her life. Her favorite work years were in partnership with her best friend Cathy, as they co-managed the Gala Ball Room and Jungle Inn night club in Independence. Pat also enjoyed managing the Wapsipinicon Country Club for a few years. Pat worked as a hostess at the Twin Torch Inn for many years and then retired as a hotel/motel clerk at the Conway Inn.

Pat enjoyed attending many social and club events, gardening, and going out to eat. She has been involved in many organizations over the years such as the Fairbank Legion Auxiliary and Federated Women’s Club; Dunkerton Women’s Club and Sportsman Club, and the Red Hat Chicks. She especially enjoyed these highlights…being the Co-Chair for the Buchanan County Farm Bureau Women and receiving a Volunteer award from Governor Terry Branstad for her Dunkerton Senior Meals Coordination.

Preceded in Death by: Her Parents; Two brothers, Harold and Thomas DeLong; Twin siblings lost at birth, Paul and Pauline DeLong; Spouses, Robert Weber and John Ryherd.

Survived By: Three daughters, Debra (Ken) Strong of Cedar Rapids, Pamela Wolter of Denver, Angela (Scott) Grahm of Dunkerton; Two grandsons, Austin Graham, Tun (Judy) Than; Six granddaughters, Shawna Mahoney, Brianna Strong, Micah (Andrew) Knebel, Danielle (Ben) Rocca, Jessica (Josh) Meier, Ashley (Mike) Coffin; Seven great granddaughters; Seven great grandsons and one brother, James (Becky) DeLong

Services: 10:30 AM Monday, November 24, 2025, at Dunkerton Methodist Church in Dunkerton.

Visitation: 1:00-3:00 PM Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Woods Funeral Home in Fairbank and for one hour before Services Monday, November 24, 2025 at Dunkerton Methodist Church in Dunkerton.

Interment: Fairview Cemetery, Dunkerton

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

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Anna Mae H. Wolfgram

Anna Mae Henrietta (Laue) Wolfgram 86 of Fairbank passed away Tuesday October 14, 2025 at Allen Memorial Hospital. She was born May 26, 1939 in Maple Leaf (Elma) IA, the daughter of Herman and Clara (Stevenson) Laue.  She graduated from Elma High School in 1957.  Anna Mae was united in marriage to Darol Wolfgram on December 14, 1957.  Darol passed away August 18, 1997.

Anna Mae and Darol had five children Bill, Lynette, Lisa, Teresa, and Emily.  In 1968 Darol and Anna Mae moved to a farm outside of Fairbank and built an 800 head finishing house.  Anna Mae spent most of her days taking care of the home and family in addition to bookkeeping and managing AH Wolfgram Distributing.  Anna Mae was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and Aunt and enjoyed attending various events with her family.  She was a long-time member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and St. John’s Lutheran Church Dorcas Circle.  She was also a member of the Community Club and Red Hat Society.  In her earlier days she enjoyed finding and refinishing antiques.  Anna Mae was a woman of strong faith and was a kind and caring person who loved her family dearly and rarely forgot a birthday.

Anna Mae is survived by four siblings: Alice Schroeder, Dale Laue, Gary Laue, and Sharon (Gary) Zajic.  four children: Lynette Fuller (Mike Cox), Lisa (Mike) Greco, Teresa Shepherd, Emily (Greg) Kleinheksel.  Daugher-In-Law: Kathie Wolfgram (Dion Galleger) and Son-In-Law Billy Shepherd.  nine grandchildren: Laura (Josh) Murphy, Jason (Brittany) Fuller, Tyson (Amber) Fuller, Lacey (Abby) Wilken, Abby (Michael) Fischels, Anne (Aaron) Jay, Austin Shepherd, Hayley Kleinheksel, and Chloe Kleinheksel.  11 great- grandchildren: Monroe Murphy, Willa Murphy, Hunter Fuller, Leena Fuller, Addilyn Fuller, Bentley Annis, Baylee Annis, Jaelyn Wilken, and Taydem Fischels.

Anna Mae was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Clara Laue, her husband Darol Wolfgram, her siblings Maxine Friedrich, Linda Fogarty, Donna Fredericksen and Bill Laue, her son Bill Wolfgram, and son-in-law Greg Fuller.

Visitation: 2:00-6:00 PM Sunday, October 19, 2025 at Woods Funeral Home in Fairbank, Iowa as well as 9:30-10:30 AM prior to Monday service at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fairbank, Iowa.

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM Monday October 20, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Fairbank, Iowa.

Interment: Fairbank Cemetery, Fairbank.

Lunch will be served following the service at the Fairbank American Legion.

Memorials can be made to the family for later designation.

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Kenny E. Piehl

Kenneth “Kenny” E. Piehl passed away Friday September 12, 2025 at Northcrest Specialty Care in Waterloo. Kenny was born November 6th, 1937 in Creston, Iowa and adopted by Fred and Ester (Tiedt) Piehl. Kenny attended Readlyn High School and graduated with the class of 1955. Following high school graduation, Kenny served from 1956-1958 in the U.S. Army, touring 18 months in Japan. After his service, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Erhardt on September 10th, 1961 at St. Matthew’s Church in Readlyn. During and after high school, Kenny worked at local businesses such as Dell’s Auto, Waverly Lumber, and Waterloo Corrugated Box. Kenny spent the remainder of his working years with H&W Motor Express Trucking where he retired in 1998 after 27 years. Kenny also drove local Amish around the area for a period of time. Outside of his work in the truck, Kenny enjoyed the road on two wheels, riding his motorcycle, which was a passion that led him to meet Bonnie. Off the road and on the farm, Kenny and Bonnie spent countless hours raising, training, racing, and showing their many horses. Another favorite pass time was their cabin in Clayton, Iowa where the family enjoyed boating on the Mississippi River. Kenny took great pride in donating his body to science to help benefit the future generation of healthcare professionals.

A special thank you to those who visited Kenny during his days of illness, he greatly appreciated the company.

The family would also like to thank Cedar Valley Hospice for their help and grace in taking care of Kenny in his last 5 and a half months with them.

Visitation: 4:00-6:00 PM Friday, September 19, 2025 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Readlyn, Iowa as well as 9:30-10:30 AM prior to Saturday service. 

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM Saturday, September 20, 2025 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Readlyn, Iowa.

Lunch will be served at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church following Saturday’s Service.

Survived by: His wife of 64 years, Bonnie and a son, Darrin Piehl; three grandkids, Autumn (Ethan), Zach (Allison), and Drew (Angela); seven great-grandkids Aubrey, Lorelei, Clara, Dominic, Alena, Aspen, and Everlie; sister, Shirley Petrack; along with niece Rhonda (Dennis) Westgard; nephews, Brian Landers, and Randall (Debbie) Landers.

Preceded in death by: His parents Fred and Ester Piehl; son, Trenton Piehl; brothers-in-law Leo Landers, Jim Petrack, and Bob Erhardt; and a special uncle, Louie Piehl.

Memorials may be directed to Community Lutheran School, Readlyn Fire and EMT, Readlyn Library, and St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Readlyn.

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Roberta I. Clemens

Roberta Irene Clemens, 94 of Fairbank passed away on Friday morning, September 5, 2025 at Buchanan County Health Center in Independence. Roberta was born April 30, 1931 in Bryantsburg, the daughter of Robert and Mary Burke. She attended school and graduated at Hazelton Community Schools. On February 2, 1951 Roberta married the late Alvin Teague who passed away July 19, 1974. She married the late LeRoy Clemens on April 16, 1977 who passed away in 2007. Roberta had a long full life, she spent her days taking care of the home and family as their kids grew up. Roberta really enjoyed her crafts, from painting to sewing she enjoyed it all. Singing and dancing were on the list of things she loved to do as she was a member of the choir at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Fairbank. Also on the list of things she loved was watching and supporting her family at horse shows. More recently her son and her enjoyed a trip to Ireland to look into their heritage.

Survived by: two daughters Connie Nabholz, and Lynn (Junior) Lenth, a son Gary Teague, three; grandchildren Lynde (Rory) Johnson, Traci (Travis) Blanchfield, and Crissy (Joey) Kuennen, four great grandchildren; Gatlin Johnson, Tyler Schachtner, Maizie and Kenzlie Kuennen, one brother Leonard (Bud) Burke.

Preceded in death by: Her parents Robert and Mary Burke, her two husbands; Alvin Teague and LeRoy Clemens, two grandchildren Chad Lenth and Kendal Teague, two brothers and four sisters.

Visitation: 4:00-7:00 PM Tuesday September 9th and from 9:00-10:00 AM Wednesday September 10th at Woods Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass; 10:30 AM Wednesday, September 10th at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Fairbank, Iowa

Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery in Oelwein

Lunch will be served at the Parish Center following the services.

Memorials may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Fairbank or Cedar Valley Hospice.

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Jim E. Schneider

James “Jim” Edward Schneider, age 66, of Readlyn passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Jim was born January 31, 1959 in Waterloo, the son of Carl and Lori (Mangrich) Schneider. Jim attended Wapsie Valley Community Schools and graduated with the class of 1977.  On October 6, 1984, he married Jody Otto at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Klinger. Jim began his career in agriculture at Readlyn Farm Center. He worked in the feed mill and hauled feed for local farmers in the area. After the closing of Readlyn Farm Center, he continued the work he loved at Dunkerton Co-Op Elevator. Jim continued serving in the agricultural industry until he retired within the last few years. When he wasn’t working his day job, he could be found doing handyman chores and fixing up things around the house. Jim loved the outdoors, whether it was hunting or farming, it was for him.  Most recently, his favorite hobby was spending time with his five grandkids that he loved so much.

Survived by: His wife of 40 years, Jody, a daughter, Jenna Schneider of Jesup; a son, Justin (Abbie) Schneider of Jesup; another daughter Jacee (Travis) Kvach of Cedar Rapids; five grandkids Bo, Ava, Kylie, Jack Schneider, and Madden Kvach; one sister, Linda (Norm) Delagardelle; one brother, Bob (Jackie) Schneider; mother-in-law, Bev Otto; brother-in-law, Gary Weber.

Preceded in death by: His parents Carl and Lori Schneider; sister, Joyce Weber; father-in-law, Darwin Otto

Visitation: 3:00-7:00 PM Monday, August 25, 2025 at Woods Funeral Home

Funeral Mass: 10:30 am Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at Immaculate Conception Fairbank.

Interment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery

Lunch will be served at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center in Fairbank following the service.

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.

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Terry Kane

Terry Lee Kane, 78, of Fairbank, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on July 18, 2025. A devoted family man, Terry was known for his strong work ethic, generous heart, and the deep love he held for those closest to him.

Born on September 17, 1946, Terry was raised on the Kane Family Farm near Fairbank, where he learned the values of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance—qualities he carried throughout his life and passed on to his children and grandchildren. He spent his years farming the land he loved and working as a skilled carpenter. Whether building with his hands or tending the fields, Terry poured his heart into everything he did.

He graduated from Immaculate Conception High School in Fairbank in 1964. As a teenager, he met the love of his life, Judy Campbell. Their connection was instant and enduring. They spent many evenings dancing at the Coliseum in Oelwein—graceful, joyful, and perfectly in step. On February 19, 1966, they married and built a life grounded in love, family, and faith—a partnership that lasted nearly 60 years.

In 1965, Terry enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve, proudly serving alongside his brother Larry for six years. He earned a sharpshooter award and made lifelong friends during his service. He was honorably discharged in 1971.

Terry had a quick wit, a big heart, and a gift for storytelling. He loved telling jokes—always with a twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face. He was a character in the best possible way: larger than life, unforgettable, and full of heart. He was known for his signature one-finger wave—his index finger raised and shaken just so, whether passing someone on a gravel road or saying goodbye after a visit. It was unmistakably Terry. To those who knew him, he was “ten feet tall and bulletproof.”

He was especially proud of his 1949 John Deere ‘B’ tractor—affectionately known as Johnny Popper—which his father purchased when Terry was a young boy. It remains a cherished piece of family history, now spanning five generations and symbolizing his lifelong love for farming.

Terry found joy in life’s simple pleasures: fishing and boating with his favorite people, sharing picnics and laughter with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and giving four-wheeler rides around the farm. He had a special gift for creating lasting memories and bringing joy to others.

A talented carpenter, Terry helped his children, grandchildren, and friends with countless projects over the years—building not only homes, but lasting bonds and stories that will endure for generations. He shared his skills freely, always happy to lend a hand.

Above all, Terry treasured his family. He was a steady, loving presence—a man who led by example, gave without expecting anything in return, and always made time for those he loved. Terry and Judy have attended Triumphant Church in Independence for over 20 years. Terry always looked forward to Sundays and going to church. He loved the Lord and wanted his family to have that relationship. It blessed him to hear his great-grandchildren talk about Jesus, too, and to see them grow in faith. Now Terry will be there ahead of us. His unique personality, unwavering support, and kind spirit will be deeply missed until we meet again.

Terry passed peacefully in his “office,” as he fondly called his shop on the family farm. He was in his favorite place, doing what he loved.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Kane, and his three sons: Jim (Sue) Kane, Marty (Robyn) Kane, and Kevin (Kathie) Kane. He was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Austin (Amber) Kane, Tyler Kane, Gavin (Bryanna) Kane, Brandon Kane, Brittney Kane, Valarie (Brian) Pont, Mackenzie Kane (Logan Sedoris), Mackaela (Luke) Askland, Stone (Trisha) Kane, Sammi Kane (Chris Haring), and Hunter Kane (Isabel LaRue). He was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren: Mason Sieverding, Myah Pont, Brexton Pont, Hayden Kane, Hudson Kane, Kashton Kane, Braylen Kane, Kolter Kane, Kingston Kane, Scottie Kane, and Charlie Kane, with another great-granddaughter expected in November.

He was the spirited and strong-willed brother of six incredible siblings:
Donnie (Joyce) Kane, Larry (Carol Ann) Kane, Kathy (Gary) Blake, Ron (Barb) Kane, Connie Kane (Maury McCaffrey), and Warren (Mary) Kane.

He was preceded in death by his wonderful parents, Laurence and Lucille Kane; his beautiful infant grandson, Brandon Kane; his loving in-laws, Milton and Exie Campbell; and his fascinating brother-in-law, Maury McCaffrey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at IC Parish Hall in Fairbank, on August 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a meal and fellowship to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family, for later designation.

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