Donald Gessman

VisitationThursday, April 13, 2006, After 3 PMOhde Funeral Home in Manilla

Funeral ServiceFriday, April 14, 2006, 10:30 AMUnited Presbyterian Church in Denison

Interment (Following a luncheon at the church)Friday, April 14, 2006, 1:30 PMNishnabotna Cemetery near Manilla

   Donald Charles, son of Charles and Martha (Bosche) Gessman, was born April 6, 1927, near Manilla, Iowa. He grew up near Manilla. Donald attended country school near his home and graduated from Manilla High School in 1944. After graduation, Donald farmed the family farm until retiring in 1993. Even during his retirement, his heart was in the farm and he continued to help in various capacities. He was particularly proud when the family farm received Century Farm status.    On March 6, 1949, Donald was united in marriage with Betty Lochmiller at the Presbyterian Church in Denison by Reverend Tillman. The couple settled on the family farm and three daughters were born to this union. Donald was a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Denison where he served as deacon and Elder. He was involved in many community activities in his earlier days. He had three important things in life " God, his family and farming. He adored his grandchildren and spent many hours playing with them. Donald was a kind, compassionate and caring person who never turned anyone away who needed help. He was well respected by anyone who ever knew him.    On Monday, April 10, 2006, Donald died at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He was 79 years and 5 days of age.    Donald was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Elsie Gardiner.    He is survived by his wife of 57 years Betty Gessman of Manilla; three daughters: Kathy Gessman and husband Dave Voss of Prince George, British Columbia, Canada; Pamala and husband Mark McNutt of Denison; Elkie and husband Kent Lansink of Manilla; four grandchildren: Valerie McNutt of Clive; Laura and husband Chad Ruffcorn of Little Sioux; and Austin and Paige Lansink of Manilla; a great-granddaughter Kaitlyn Ruffcorn of Little Sioux; and many nieces and nephews.