Lola von Glan

Lola Vernita (Jespersen) von Glan, age 91, of Breda, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, June 25, 2005, at Twilight Acres in Wall Lake. Lola was born on February 6, 1914, the daughter of Iver and Rosa Jespersen of Royal, Iowa. She grew up in Royal, and would often help work in her dad’s general store. After graduating from high school in Royal and Iowa State Teachers’ College in Cedar Falls, she taught school for four years: at a country school outside of Royal, in Sioux Rapids, and in Westside.

On December 29, 1940, Lola was united in marriage to Julius ("Jud") von Glan, oldest son of Gottlieb and Augusta von Glan of Breda. Jud and Lola built a home five miles west of Breda and farmed there for many years. They were blessed with three daughters: Ruth, Julie, and Amy. When Jud passed away in 1987 (age 80); Lola stayed on the farm until 1994. After that she resided in Twilight Acres.

Lola was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose faith was rooted in a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. For many years she was an active member of the Wheatland Presbyterian Church. She expressed her faith in many acts of kindness, always ready to serve others with a smile. Her joyful spirit was evident even until her last days. Lola had an appreciation for God’s creation, taking delight in growing flowers and gardening, and able to identify many of the songbirds. Occasionally she expressed herself in rhyme and even on canvas. She had also belonged to the Wall Lake Research Club.

Survivors include her daughters: Ruth (John) Gillen of Cambridge, NY, Julie (Vern) Smith of Maynard, IA, and Amy (Jay) Smoker of Ephrata, PA; nine grandchildren: Kristin and Katie Gillen, Tony and Doug Smith, and Brandon, Caleb, Jared, Daniel, and Carla Smoker. Lola’s oldest sister Carla, age 94, is also still living in Storm Lake.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two sisters, Elma (Harold) Mattfeld of Austin, MN and Gladys (Ed) Dirksen of Spencer, IA.

Lola will be fondly remembered and missed by many friends and relatives.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 29th, 10:00 a.m., at the Wheatland Presbyterian Church in Breda, Iowa, with Rev. Donald Gibson officiating. Burial will be at the Wheatland Cemetery with the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 28th, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Wall Lake.