Roxanne Valjean Nevel

Roxanne Valjean Nevel, the daughter of Valentine S. and Orimal L. (Woodhouse) Carl, was born on January 26, 1940, in Harlan, Iowa. She attended Harlan schools, and later completed her GED. She married Larry F. Nollen and later, Merle Kaldenberg; both marriages ended in divorce. On August 9, 1968, Roxanne married Wayne Caroll Nevel in Rockford, Illinois. Wayne became a father to all of the children.

Roxanne was a faithful, strong, and devoted member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa. She had a servant’s heart and was quick to volunteer when help was needed. Roxanne enjoyed a variety of hobbies including doing Jumble puzzles, painting, crocheting, singing, dancing, and baking. She was a loving wife and mother whose grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy.

Roxanne V. Nevel died on Friday, April 29, 2005, at her home in Harlan, Iowa, at the age of 65 years, 3 months, and 3 days.

Preceding Roxanne in death were her parents; one brother, Jeffery Carl; and one sister, Carolyn Schwery. Survivors include her husband of 36 years, Wayne C. Nevel of Harlan, Iowa; four sons, Larry V. (Marna) Nollen of Columbus, Georgia, Anthony (Tracy) Nollen of Macomb, Illinois, Derrick Kaldenberg of Harlan, Iowa, and Timothy (Loni) Nevel of Bloomfield, Nebraska; two daughters, Kristy Davis of Harlan, Iowa, and Joan (Doug) Andersen of Jacksonville, Iowa; three brothers, Douglas (Mary) Carl of Ottumwa, Iowa, Nick (Ann) Carl of Marshalltown, Iowa, and Marc (Marcie) Carl of Defiance, Iowa; two sisters, Lois (David) Dean of Omaha, Nebraska, and Victoria (Alan) Johannsen of Mitchellville, Iowa; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, May 3, 2005, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa, with Father Robert Hoefler celebrating. Musicians were Kathleen Kohorst, Maryalyce Dotzler, Meg Kohles, and Amanda Andersen. Roxanne’s loving grandchildren served as casket bearers. Burial was in the Harlan Cemetery in Harlan, Iowa. The Burmeister-Johannsen Funeral Home in Harlan was in charge of the arrangements.