VENTURA - Calvin F. Josten, 75, of rural Ventura died unexpectedly on the family farm on October 23, 2008.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 A.M., Monday at Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garner with Rev. David Graham officiating. Burial will be in Elll Township Cemetery in Klemme with military rites by the Garner Veterans Ceremonial Unit.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 6 P.M., Sunday at the Cataldo Funeral Chapel in Garner and will continue one hour prior to services at the church.

Calvin Franklin Josten, the son of Ewald and Della (Rosendahl) Josten was born January 25, 1933 at Klemme. He grew up in rural Klemme and graduated from Klemme High School in 1950. He served in the Army during the Korean conflict. On June 20, 1956, he married Ella Eekhoff at the Kanawha Christian Reformed Church and to this union four children were born. They lived southwest of Ventura where they farmed. He was a devoted husband and father who set a great example for his children. He worked hard and always had a positive attitude and a smile on his face. Calvin also loved his grandchildren. From giving them tractor rides on demand to attending their events, he was there for them. He was an avid bowler and enjoyed competing in leagues and tournaments over the years.

Calvin was an active member of the Zion Evangelical & Reformed Church in Garner. He served on the Church Board for many years and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His faith was his first priority and each morning began his day by reading his Bible and praying. Calvin loved Jesus and was blessed to have a personal relationship with his Savior. Calvin has now met his Father face to face and is in his heavenly home.

Calvin leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Ella, of Ventura; his children, James (Carol) Josten of Des Moines; Dean (Miriam) Josten of Ventura; Becky (James) Bull of Mason City and Karen (Doug) Faktor also of Mason City; seven grandchildren, Matthew, Michael and Luke Josten, Branson and Mitchell Bull and Benjamin and Hannah Faktor; brothers, Marvin (Dianne) Josten of Marshalltown and Edward (Kathy) Josten of Elkader; and many nieces and nephews.

Calvin was preceded in death by his parents, Ewald and Della Josten. ... Read More