anice Ann Hoy, 77, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at her home in Austin.

Janice Ann Maxfield was born January 26, 1935, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, the daughter of Frieda Timmerman Maxfield and James Maxfield Sr. For many years, Janice worked as the early morning waitress at Harry's Cafe on Austin's East Side. She was married to Eugene Hoy on August 16, 1975.

Janice was a member of Crane Community Chapel in Austin and the United Support Group. She loved playing bingo at area casinos and was an animal lover. Janice was an avid Minnesota Twins’ fan and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eugene Hoy; son, George Thistlethwaite; brother, James Maxfield Jr.; and her dog Mitzi.

She is survived by daughters, Marlis (Ron) Thompson, Emmons, Minnesota, and Penra Grimley (Art Nelson), Austin; sister, Delores (Frank) Waletzki, Austin; sister-in-law, Joanne Maxfield, Austin; daughter-in-law, Sherrie Thistlethwaite, Hayfield, Minnesota; Godson, Todd (Michelle) Waletzki, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; grandchildren, Bill (Terrie) Hallman, Dawn (Ron) Egge, Michael (Shelley) Grimley, Kellie (Shane) Drenth, Amanda Thistlethwaite, Chelsea Thistlethwaite, Chad Heydt; great-grandchildren, Brianna (Cody) Smith, Lauren Egge, Lindsey Egge, Zach Hallman, Nick Hallman, Quinton Grimley; and great-great-grandson, Lane Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, at Crane Community Chapel with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. Interment will be in the Byron Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be held at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. and at the church on Monday morning for one hour before the service. Memorials are preferred to the Mayo Health Systems Austin Hospice Program.

Honorary bearers will be Todd Waletzki, Bill Hallman, Michael Grimley, Kellie Drenth, Shane Drenth, Nicole Waletzki, Garrett Waletzki and Dawn Egge.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 7, 2012.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

LYLE PIONEER IS
CLAIMED BY DEATH

Identified with Progress
of Lyle Village

News reached Lyle Monday afternoon that John Bergeson, one of the oldest and best known men of the community had passed away that morning at his beautiful country home, six miles west of Lyle. Mr. Bergeson had not been in the best of health for several years, but was able to be around until a few hours prior to his death. About the middle of last week he contracted a severe cold and pneumonia followed.

Few men have been more intimately identified with the progress, upbuilding and welfare of their community. His home was the scene of many festivities and was the meeting place of friends and neighbors. He took a great interest in politics and for years devoted much time to the different campaigns.

When the Lyle Telephone company was organized, John Bergeson was one of the incorporators and served on the board of directors for a number of years. He was a veteran of the Civil War and a firm believer in the principles of the government.

Five years ago last July Mr. and Mrs. Bergeson celebated their fiftieth wedding anniversary, at which time many of their old friends from far and near paid their respects to the worthy couple.

John Bergeson was born in Norway on October 14, 1846, and when but three years of age came to America with his parents and resided in Columbia county, Wisconsin, until 1855, when they came to Minnesota. Mr. Bergeson served in Company B of the First Minnesota Heavy Artillery during the Civil War and was a charter member of the Northwood G.A.R.

On July 11, 1866, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Swenson of Lyle, and resided near here until 1875 when he moved to his recent home.

To them were born seven daughters and one son. The funeral was held on Friday morning at 10:00 o'clock, interment being made in the Six Mile Grove cemetery

--Lyle Independent

[Mower County News, Monday,
3-20-1922, page 3, col. 2]

Note: Photo of John and Anna is
from their tombstone.

Credit: Mark Ashley

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Myron R. Cochran, 79, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, November 30, 2012, at the Sterling House assisted living in Owatonna, Minnesota.

He was born June 6, 1933, in Faribault, Minnesota, to Roger and Hazel (Braaten) Cochran. He graduated from Austin High School. Myron married Lavonne Benson on Sept. 9, 1956, at the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church. Later they divorced. He served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958 and the Army and Air Force reserves until 1962. Myron farmed and worked for the Ulland Bros. and later was a foreman for the Freeborn County Highway Department.

Myron was a past member of the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church, and the Elks & Moose Lodges.

He is survived by his son, Mark Cochran, Byron, Minnesota; daughter, Jody (Dean) Schrom, Owatonna; grandchildren, Christy (Scott) Rogne, Austin, Stephanie (Tyrel) Kennedy, Byron, Ryan (Brianna) Schrom, Owatonna, Katie (Chris) Emerson, Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, Jeffrey Cochran, Hermantown, Minnesota, and Kelsey (Adam) Jensen, Meridan, Minnesota; 11 great-grandchildren; aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church with the Rev. Lindsay Stolen officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin and at the church on Wednesday for one hour before the service. The casket bearers will be his six grandchildren and the honorary bearers will be Wayne Thompson, David Braaten, Gary Braaten, Jerry Williamson and Jerry Wiste. Interment will be in the Red Oak Grove Cemetery. Austin Post No. 91, American Legion in charge of military rites. Memorials are preferred to the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 3, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1: Funeral notice:

Dorothy Espe, 92, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, December 4, 2012, at Bickford Cottage, Davenport, Iowa.

Service: Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday Dec, 7, 2012, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Dale Christiansen officiating.

Visitation: There will be a visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

Interment: Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 5, 2012

---

#2:

Dorothy Delores Espe, 92, of Davenport, Iowa, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, December 4, 2012, at Bickford Cottage, Davenport, Iowa.

Dorothy was born April 30, 1920, to John and Matilda Armbrust in Dodge Center, Minn., where she grew up and attended country school. After completing her education, Dorothy worked at Hormel for a couple of years before her marriage to Sylvester “Sal” Espe on Aug. 2, 1945, in Austin, where they made their home. A member of Crane Community Chapel, Dorothy enjoyed crafts, music and Button Concertina. She moved to Davenport in February 2011 to be near her daughter.

Survivors include her son, Larry (Nancy) Espe of Zimmerman, Minn.; daughter, Nancy (Kenny Voss) Logue of Sherrard, Ill.; five grandchildren, Matthew (Tabitha) Logue, Mark (Amber) Logue, Ashley (Justin) Krone, Dale Espe and Brandon Espe; eight great-grandchildren, Michelle, K’lea, Tyler, Isabel, Abby, Ally, Hailey and Landon.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sal Espe on April 13, 2009; and 16 siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Dale Christiansen officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. There will be a visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service on Friday. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 6, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Patricia M. Corporon, age 76 of Austin, died Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at Faribault Care Center.

She was born May 12, 1936 in London, England to Charles and Ivy (Fisher) Townsend. Patricia grew up in Redding, England, where she married Richard R. Corporon on September 3, 1956. In 1957 the couple moved to Austin, Minnesota. She enjoyed her flowers and gardening, as well as knitting, singing, and whistling. A member of Christ Episcopal Church, Patricia was known as the “English Lady” at Elden’s IGA and Johnson Floral.

Survivors include her husband Richard Corporon of Austin; three daughters Teresa Corporon and Cindy Ramaker, both of Austin, and Lorraine (Duane) Felt of Adams; two sons Anthony (Tina) Corporon and Todd Corporon, both of Austin; six grandchildren Tina, Chad, Amanda, Kyle, Trystyn, and Ivy; three great-grandchildren Leyton, Miley, and Phoenix; one brother Anthony Townsend of Doncaster, England; many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Ivy Townsend, two sisters Joan and Fran, and son-in-law Butch Ramaker.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 7, 2012 at Christ Episcopal Church in Austin with Reverend Catherine Lemons officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 4:00-7:00 on Thursday December 6, 2012 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Memorials can be directed to Christ Episcopal Church, or to recipient of donor’s choice.

Worlein Funeral Home website,
December 5, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Funeral Notice:

Marcella V. Schwartz, 92, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, died Tuesday, December 4, 2012, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center.

Service: A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 7, 2012, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father Tom Loomis officiating.

Visitation: There will be a 6 p.m. wake service on Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Friday.

Interment: Interment will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Austin Daily Herald, December 5, 2012

---

#2:

Marcella V. (Mentel) Schwartz, 92, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, died Tuesday, December 4, 2012, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center.

Marcella was born July 16, 1920, on a farm south of Rose Creek to Fred and Mary (Majerus) Mentel. She lived in Rose Creek and Austin, Minnesota. Marcella graduated from Austin High School in 1939 and then went to Teacher’s Training in Winona. Marcella married Melvin Schwartz on March 25, 1942, in Windom. They made their home on a farm near Rose Creek where they raised their three children.

Marcella taught country school in Lyle and Johnsburg and later taught at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Adams until her retirement in 1977. She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, St. Peter’s Rosary Society, Rose Creek Literary Club and Birthday Club, Hoe and Grow Garden Club, and was a Hospital Auxiliary volunteer at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin.

Survivors include her daughters, Carol (Jack) Kiefer, Rose Creek, Marietta (Steve) Frein, Plainview, Minn.; daughter-in-law, Judy Schwartz, Rose Creek; nine grandchildren, David Schwartz, Lynelle Elward, Steven Schwartz, Gregg Schwartz, Jessica Sannes, Laura Peterson, Mitchell Frein, Kellie Kiefer and Sarah Kiefer; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Elaine Mentel, Austin, Stella Mentel, Adams.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Melvin in 1999; son, Roger in 2009; brothers, Harry and Clarence; sister, Kathryn.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, December 7, 2012, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father Tom Loomis officiating. There will be a 6 p.m. wake service on Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 6, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Willis Earles, 79, of Austin, Minnesota, died on December 4, 2012, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

Willis was born January 24, 1933, in London Township, Freeborn County, Minnesota He was engaged in farming his entire life and moved to St. Mark’s Lutheran Home in spring 2012. He enjoyed dogs and cats, listening to music at St. Mark’s and on the radio.

Survivors include a sister, Nina Hendrickson of Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Pamela Aandahl Solberg officiating. Interment is at London Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 5, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Thomas William Brown, 71, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at his home.

Thomas was born December 18, 1940, to Thomas W. and Angela A. (Hauge) Brown in St. Paul, Minn. After graduating from Le Sueur High School and attending St. Cloud State, Thomas enlisted in the Air Force in 1960 where he served until 1964. He married Karen Tangen on September 25, 1965, in Albert Lea. They made their home in Austin where Thomas worked for the city at the Wastewater Treatment Center from 1970 until his retirement in December 2000. An avid motorcyclist, he took road trips throughout the United States and Canada over the past 35 years. He also enjoyed camping and snowmobiling, coached youth baseball and hockey and belonged to the Eagles and American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Karen of Austin; son, Steven (Laurie) Brown of Delano; daughter, Linda (John) Droubie of Cambridge; six grandchildren, Sam, Adam and Will Brown, and Ryan, Madeline and Cal Droubie; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Scotty.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with the Rev. Shari Mason officiating and military rites by American Legion Post No. 91. Visitation is from noon to 2 p.m. the day of the service. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 5, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

MRS. A. BERGESON
DIES AT AGE OF 93
Pioneer Resident of North Deer
Creek Succumbs After a
Brief Illness

Mrs. Anne Bergeson, 92, one of the pioneer women of the north Deer Creek community, passed away at her home in the southern part of Freeborn county near the Deer Creek settlement last Friday, March 1, at 12:45 p.m. Her death followed a brief illness. She had lived in Freeborn and Mower counties for 80 years.

Funeral services were conducted on Tuesday at 11 o'clock a.m. at the Bergeson home, at 12 o'clock noon at the Deer Creek Church, and at the Six Mile Grove church at 2 o'clock p.m. The Rev. Hans Fosnes, of Northwood, conducted the rites, assisted by the Rev. Mr. Langehough. Burial was made in the Six Mile Grove cemetery. The Deer Creek church choir, the Six Mile Grove church choir, and a male quartet gave special numbers. Mrs. Peter Hanson and Miss Dahl sang solos at the services.

Mrs. Bergeson was born in Siljor parish, upper Telemarken, Norway, on August 12, 1841. She was baptized in the Lutheran faith shortly after her birth. She was, at her death, 93 years, 6 months and 17 days of age.

As a child she came to America with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Svend Jorgenson, in 1853. They located first at Long Prairie, Illinois, where they remained about one year. They then came across country to St. Ansgar, Iowa. Mrs. Bergeson was about 13 years old at the time and, with a few others, walked the distance of several hundred miles from Long Prairie to St. Ansgar.

After remaining at St. Ansgar for a day or two to rest, they continued their journey to Six Mile Grove, a short distance east of Lyle in Mower county, Minnesota, where they settled. There Mrs. Bergeson grew up to womanhood. She was confirmed at St. Ansgar in 1856 by the Rev. C. L. Clausen, one of the earliest ministers of the gospel in northern Iowa and southern Minnesota.

She was married in 1866 to John Bergeson of Six Mile Grove. The wedding was held at the bride's home with the Rev. Mrs. Clausen officiating. In 1875 they moved to the place in the north Deer Creek community where the family has lived for the succeeding 60 years.

Eleven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bergeson; three sons and eight daughters, of whom all three sons, Johnnie, Svend and Almer, and four daughters, Adeline, Mrs. Harold Rohne, Mrs. Carl Gran and Mrs. John Martin, have preceded their mother in death. Mr. Bergeson passed away several years ago.

The four surviving daughters are Mrs. Conrad Birkeland, Maynard, Minnesota; Mrs. Nels Hanson, Douglass, N. Dak; Mrs. Peder I. Hendrikson and Mrs. Albert Leidal, who live close to the home farm. There are 42 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren living. One brother, Jorgen Svendson, and one sister, Mrs. Gunhild Volstad, of Lyle, also survive.

Mrs. Bergeson was known as a kind and loving wife and mother, God fearing and industrious. her manner of life was quiet and unassuming and as she had lived so she also passed away. She was taken ill on Thursday morning, February 29, and her death occurred on the following day. The large number of relatives and friends who gathered at the services to honor her memory testifies to the high esteem and affection in which she was held by her neighbors and associates of the past decades.

Northwood (Iowa) Anchor,
Thursday, 3-07-1935, page 6

Note: Photo of John and Anna is from
their tombstone.

Credit: Mark Ashley

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

David R. Rosenkilde, 57, died November 22, 2012, at the V.A. Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.

David was born March 10, 1955, to Leo E. and Ruth Schaldack Rosenkilde. He attended high school in Alexandria, Minnesota, and Austin, Minnesota, and served in the U.S. Navy. During his life, he was married to Gloria Sweigart and Dina Martin.

He is survived by his sister Sue Taylor and brother Larry Rosenkilde, both of Missouri; sons Matt and Nathaniel Rosenkilde; daughter, Jessica McLaughlin, Phoenix area; and two children of Japanese descent.

David was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his niece, Melanie.

A service will be held at the V.A. Cemetery in Phoenix at 1 p.m. on December 7, 2012. No visitation will be held. Interment with full military rites will follow the service.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 5, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Marie B. Nelson, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, formerly of Glenville, Minnesota, died Saturday, December 1, 2012, at the Comforcare Good Samaritan Society in Austin.

Marie was born January 1, 1924, in Duluth, Minnesota, and later adopted by John and Minnie Prihoda. She grew up in rural London and attended school there. On October 14, 1942, she married Bernard “Bernie” Nelson in Austin. Marie was a member of Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church and was a member of the circle there. She also worked as the lunch lady at the Lyle school. Marie liked to crochet and bowled in a league. She loved to spend time with her family, especially the grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Lois Dain, Waupaca, Wisconsin, Robert I. (Darlene) Nelson, Ripon, Wisconsin, Debra (Derry) Olsen, Lyle, Minnesota, Randy (Linda Langstaff) Nelson, Austin; eight grandchildren, Scott, Todd, Michael, Jolene, Bob J., Melissa, Bradley, Justin; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; nieces, nephews, and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melville and Jenny Thompson; her adoptive parents John and Minnie Prihoda; her husband, Bernie; and son-in-law, Jerome Dain.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ronald Myers officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, December 7, 2012, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at the London Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to the Good Samaritan Society Comforcare in Austin or to the Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church, Glenville. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 4, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Death Notice: Marian Elizabeth Hall, 96

Marian Elizabeth Hall, 96, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, December 13, 2012, at Mayo Health Center, Austin.

Service: Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 19 at Crane Chapel in Austin.

Visitation: There will be a one-hour visitation prior to services.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

A full obituary will appear in Monday’s edition.

  Austin Daily Herald,
  December 15, 2012

---

#2:

Marian Elizabeth Hall, 96, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Thursday, December 13, 2012, at Mayo Hospital in Austin.

She was born on January 11, 1916, in Marion County, Iowa, to Lloyd and Leila Wall. Her family located in Minnesota and she worked for Hormel which is where she met Edgar Hall. They were married and had three boys and two girls. She lost two boys and a girl at birth and another boy by accident at age 4.

Marian is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Jack) Workman of Austin; granddaughter, Dawn (Larry) Bounds of Minneapolis; great-granddaughter, Zoe Bounds of Minneapolis; sisters, Dorothy Heimer-Sargent and Louise Hall of Austin; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Marian Hall will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2012, at Crane Chapel in Austin with visitation one hour prior to services. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, December 17, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Donald Rollin Stilwell Sr., 90, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at Stewartville Care Center in Stewartville, Minnesota.

Donald was born October 11, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, to Rollin and Mary (Peters) Stilwell. He grew up in Owatonna, and then moved to Rochester in 1938, graduating from Rochester High School in 1941. On March 25, 1942, Don married Mary Elaine Laack in St. Paul, Minnesota. They had five children. Mary passed away at age 45 in 1970.

On October 2, 1971, Don married Shirley (Dugstad) Brandt at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Shirley passed away in 2003. Don was employed by the Hormel Foods Corporation for 45 1/2 years, beginning in 1942. He worked various union jobs until 1948, at which time he became foreman of the gelatin department. In 1961 he became a food technologist in research and development, formulating dessert products. Don retired from Hormel in 1987. An active member of the Austin Aerie No. 703 Eagles organization for many years, Don held the office of District 5 president, state president, and four-state regional president. He entered the State Eagles Hall of Fame in 1985.

Survivors include his children, Don Jr. (Karen) Stilwell of Austin, Barb (Gary) Heimer of Nisswa, Minnesota, David (Cheryl) Stilwell of Chaska, Minnesota, Mary Lou Johnson of Stewartville, Patty (Jim) Urlick of Austin; 15 grandchildren, Deryk (Lisa) Stilwell, Jeff (Connie) Stilwell, Mark (Mari) Stilwell, Sara Moe, Anne (Al) Bergersen, Cathy (Kevin) Cunningham, Mary Heimer-Paulson, Teresa (Mike) Shaw, Matt (Jill) Stilwell, Ryan (Holly) Stilwell, Lisa (Mike) Wolf, Kevin (Jennifer) Johnson, Mike (Ashley) Urlick, Ryan (Anna) Urlick and Joseph Urlick; and 28 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rollin and Mary Stilwell; his wife, Mary, in 1970; his second wife, Shirley, in 2003; two brothers, Ervin and Bert; two sisters, Frances Carter and LaDean Nelson.

Don will be remembered for his sense of humor and love of his family. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and caregivers.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, December 10, 2012, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes and Father Paul Nelson co-officiating. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. There will be a 4 p.m. prayer service at the funeral home on Sunday. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald,
December 7, 2012.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Patricia Ann Patterson, age 74, of Austin, Minnesota, was received into the arms of the Lord on November 30, 2012, in Rosemount, Minnesota, surrounded by her family.

Pat was born April 17, 1938, in Austin, to Arthur McDonald and Ellen Thompson McDonald. A lifelong resident of Austin, Pat worked 34 years at the corporate offices of Hormel Corporation. She loved being with her family, traveling, playing cards and was an avid reader. She was married to Dan Patterson for 50 years. A kind and generous person, Pat is deeply missed by her children, family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2007; her parents, her mother and father-in-law Graydon and Jeanette Patterson, brother Arthur McDonald and great-granddaughter Kayleigh Patterson.

She is survived by her children, Dan (Sandi) Patterson of Zeeland, Michigan, Ann (Mike) Dougherty of St. Paul, Minnesota, David (Lisa) Patterson of Lyle, Minnesota, Dale (Angie) Patterson of Farmington, Minnesota, and Christine (Paul) Hlavac of Duluth, Minnesota; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass for Patricia Patterson will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin by Father James Steffes. Visitation at the church will be held one hour prior to services. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be held at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 3 with a rosary at 4 p.m. and wake service at 6:45 p.m.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 3, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

OBITUARY:

ST. ANSGAR, IOWA - Earl A. Kirchgatter, 87, of St. Ansgar, passed away on Wednesday (March 4, 2009) at his home in rural St. Ansgar.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2009, at St. Ansgar United Methodist Church, St. Ansgar, with the Rev. Peter Chang officiating. Burial will be in Woodbury Cemetery, rural Lyle, Minn. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to services.

Earl was born on April 1, 1921, in Newburg Township, Mitchell County, Iowa the second son of Richard and Amanda (Bowers) Kirchgatter. Earl graduated from St. Ansgar Schools and played on the high school basketball team.

He married Doris Louise Greiner of Meltonville, on October 29, 1941. Earl honorably served his country in the Army during World War II. When he returned home from the war, he worked in construction for August Reuchel.

In 1953, Earl and Louise and their family moved to the Kirchgatter family farm, just west and north of town. He raised his children working the farm, raising livestock as well as working for the St. Ansgar Elevator until 1983, when health issues forced him to retire.

Earl enjoyed having family and friends around. It was not unusual for there to be a house full on Saturday evenings or Sunday afternoons with potluck dinners with brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews. Saturday night was often card night with neighbors and friends. He also loved basketball - both playing it and watching it. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan.

He enjoyed watching his grandsons play sports during their high school days. He never missed a Saints basketball or baseball game when his grandsons were playing.

The love of his life was his wife Louise. They were inseparable. They did everything together, right down to the end. He loved her dearly and she adored him. They were a good team.

He was an active member of the United Methodist church in St. Ansgar and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his son Keith; sister, Freida Lillibridge; brother, Ellery; sister, Bernice Edgar; and brother Karl.

Earl is survived by his wife of 67 years, Louise of St. Ansgar; son, Gary of St. Ansgar; daughter, Shirley Kirchgatter Waddle of Waterloo; son, Kevin (Mary Lynn) of St. Ansgar; grandsons, Todd (Sandy) Kirchgatter, of Apple Valley, Minnesota; John Kirchgatter, of Fort Dodge, Brian (Allison) Kirchgatter, of Coralville; Jason (Elizabeth) Kirchgatter of St. Ansgar; great-grandchildren, Kaela, Karly of Apple Valley, Minnesota, and Ethan and Jaxon of St. Ansgar.

Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, 641-713-4920.

 [Mason City Globe Gazette online
 3/6/2009]

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Funeral notice: Thomas M. Krebsbach, 59, Austin

Thomas M. Krebsbach, 59, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Service: Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Monday, December 10, 2012, at Crane Community Chapel with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating.

Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home.

 Austin Daily Herald,
  December 7, 2012.

---

#2:

Date Of Birth: February 23, 1953
Date Of Death: December 5, 2012

Thomas M. Krebsbach, age 59, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.

Tom was born February 23, 1953 in Austin to William and Beatrice (Mullenbach) Krebsbach. He grew up in Austin where he graduated from Pacelli High School.

Tom was a hard worker for the restaurant business at the Oak Leaf and Jerry's Other Place being part owner. He enjoyed watching football, sports and going to concerts. Tom most enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his three year old grandson, Greyson.

Survivors include his daughter, Christina (Joe) Vandeweerd, Austin; grandson, Greyson; friend, Pam Severson, Austin and her children, Trisha and Aaron; three brothers, Robert Krebsbach, San Francisco, CA, John Krebsbach, Austin, Joseph Krebsbach, Austin; a sister, Diana (Michael) Merten, Austin; nieces and nephews; aunts and uncles.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Beatrice Krebsbach.

Funeral services will be held 2:30 pm on Monday, December 10, 2012 at Crane Community Chapel with Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. Friends may call from 4-5:30 pm on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.

 Source: Mayer Funeral Home website.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Paul Robert Espe, 79, of Quincy, Illinois, died Thursday, December 6, 2012, in Blessing Hospital.

Paul was born October 13, 1933, in Hayfield, Minnesota, the eighth child of Nels and Bessie Howell Espe. He married Helen Josephine Broskoff on January 3, 1958; she survives him.

Paul was a 1952 graduate of Austin High School and served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1956, where he was stationed in Germany. Paul worked at Marigold Dairy until 1968 and Ankeny Dairy until 1977 when he and his wife bought the Yucatan Supper Club in Yucatan, Minn. They sold the club in 1989 and moved to Spring Grove where they bought a Victorian home and made it into a bed and breakfast. Paul also worked at Northern Engraving. While living at Austin, Paul was a deacon at Westminster Presbyterian Church, PTA president, Cub Scout master and coach to many.

The Espes moved to Quincy in 2004 and he became a QPS school bus rider. His kids on the bus loved him and the feeling was mutual. He was a member of Faith Presbyterian Church. A man with a generous, loving heart, bestowed life’s greatest gift on his children and grandchildren by being an exemplary model of integrity, hard work, humor, devotion to family, and unconditional love. Paul’s incredible legacy will live on forever in the lives of all he touched.

Survivors also include three children, Scott Espe, Andre (David) Landsom, both of Quincy, and Brian (Pauline) Espe of Rushford, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Nicholas and John Espe of Arlington, Virginia, Paul and Julian Landsom, both of Quincy, Morgan Decker and Madisen Espe, both of Green Bay, Wisconsin; a great-grandchild, Owen Landsom of Quincy; two sisters, Evangeline Reimann of Anoka, Minnesota, and Alice (Harold) Wiste of Adams, Minnesota; three brothers-in-law, Reese Butterfield, McIntire, Iowa, Robert (Sherry) Broskoff, Albert Lea, Minnesota, and Frank (Lahn) Broskoff, Houston, Texas; three sisters-in-law, Ruth (Jack) Beighley, Salem, Oregon, Jeanne (Charles) Huff, Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, Janith Espe, Austin; 44 nieces and nephews; many great- and great-great- nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters; five brothers; one daughter-in-law, Staci Decker Espe; two brothers-in-law; four sisters-in-law; and two nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, December 10 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Rev. Kevin McGinnis officiating. Interment will be in the Grandview Cemetery with Austin Post No. 91, American Legion in charge of military rites. Visitation will be held from 2 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at Hansen-Spear Funeral Home in Quincy and on Monday from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary. Memorials are preferred to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 7, 2012.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Date Of Birth: April 13, 1945
Date Of Death: December 1, 2012

Marlene A. Hansen, age 67, of Rochester, Minnesota, died Saturday, December 1, 2012 at the Stewartville Care Center.

Marlene was born April 13, 1945 in Hastings, NE to Marland "Bud" and Jacqueline Sukow. She grew up in Austin, Minnesota, and graduated from Rose Creek High School in 1963. Marlene was united in marriage to Gary Hansen on June 22, 1968 and they were later divorced.

Marlene loved collecting angel statues, playing Farkel, listening to classical and country music, and making crafts.

She loved and treasured times spent with her grandchildren and her dog, Gizmo.

Survivors include two daughters, Tracey (Paul) Welch, Stewartville, Minnesota, Kathy (Bill) Strouckel, Rochester, Minnesota; three grandchildren, Stephen, Alexander, and Elizabeth; sisters, Karen (Larry) Sheely, Austin, Minnesota, Diane (Mike) McCabe, Dundas, Minnesota, Carol (Mark) Thoma, Seattle, Wash.; many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents in 1999.

A memorial service will be held 10:00 am on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at Grace Evangelical Free Church in Stewartville, Minnesota. A reception will be held immediately following the service at the church, followed by a graveside service in Grandview Cemetery in Austin, Minnesota.

   Source: Mayer Funeral Home website.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

(December 24, 1931 - December 6, 2012)

Darlean Rudella Magee, age 80, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, December 6, 2012 at Our House Memory Care in Austin.

Darlean was born on December 24, 1931 in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota to Irwin and Ruth (Boysen) Iverson. She graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1949 and married Richard Magee on September 10, 1953. Darlean was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church where she was an active member of her church circle. She was a member of the Garden Club and also enjoyed crafts, antiques, and flowers.

Darlean was preceded in death by her parents, Irwin and Ruth Iverson, infant brother, Rodney and son-in-law, John Verducci.

Darlean is survived by her husband: Richard Magee, Austin, Minnesota; children: Debra (Magee) Verducci, Arlington, Virginia; Dale (Julie) Magee, Bloomington, Minnesota; Deanna Magee (Jeff Huber) Brighton, Michigan; David Magee, Arlington, Virginia; Douglas Magee, Two Harbors, Minnesota; grandchildren: Kimberly (Andrew) Robinson; Steven (Sarah) Magee; Emily Magee; brothers: Lyle Iverson, Randlett, Oklahoma; Darrel (Sandra) Iverson, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; Irwin (Judy) Iverson, Jr., Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; and Larry Iverson, Rochester, Minnesota; also by nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Reverend William Odermann officiating. Interment will be in the Woodbury Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday from 5:00 – 7:30 PM at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and at the church on Tuesday for one hour before the service.

Memorials may be directed to St. Olaf Lutheran Church or to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

 Source: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home
 website - 12/7/2012
 See also: Austin Daily Herald,  December 8, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Dale Verdon Wiste, 76 of Austin, Minnesota, passed from his earthly home, December 6, 2012, and entered into the loving arms of his Savior. His family is grateful that he is celebrating Christmas in his new heavenly home.

Dale was one of eight children born to the late Arnold and Bernice (Erickson) Wiste of Spring Grove, Minnesota. As a young man, he moved to Austin, and on April 14, 1956, he was united in marriage to Joan Sabanish. Together they raised four children, providing them with a solid and loving family foundation. On June 16, 1983 he married Bonnie Opsahl.

As a strong, dedicated Norwegian man, Dale took pride in his work. He was employed at Concrete Units, Weyerhauser and Hormel, where he retired in 1985. Having grown up on a farm, Dale followed his passion by purchasing a hog farm and returned to country living. Throughout his life, Dale had a deep appreciation for music and enjoyed camping and blue grass festivals. His family will always remember his beautiful voice.

After his retirement, he gained great satisfaction in serving his church. He enjoyed his nearly daily trips to the Salvation Army where he developed a kinship with the people he met and found many unique items that his grandchildren treasured and fondly reminisce about to this day. His passion for animals, especially dogs, led him to volunteer at the Austin Humane Society where he rescued a few faithful companions who provided him with many years of enjoyment. Time spent with Dale was always entertaining; his sense of humor was something he was known for, and conversations at his home were typically met with his famous Iced Tea and homemade donuts. Despite the challenges of Alzheimer’s, Dale touched the lives of many people with his smile and maintained his trademark sense of wit and humor all the way to his peaceful passing.

His passing is mourned by his wife, Bonnie of Austin; former wife and mother of his four children, Joan (Wayne) Skov of Lyle; children, Roger Wiste of Ninilchik, Alaska; Renae (Dayle) Goskesen of Austin; Raymond (Lilly) Wiste of Plainview; Rhonda (John) DeVries of Austin; stepdaughters, Cheryl (James) Jensen of Austin; Linda Holtan of Austin; Carrie (Harry) Kosuge of Glenville; Pam (Larry) McAlister of Austin; Kathy (Greg) Hulst of Waltham; 20 grandchildren, Megan (John) Rodriquez of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Lyndsey (Jason) Johnson of Austin; Elizabeth Goskesen of Austin; Morgan Wiste (Josh Finne) of Plainview; Leah (Jordan) Ferch of Austin; Logan (Briana) Goskesen of Austin; Leah (Eduardo) Arteaga of Hugo; Wesley (Deana Kosuge) of Woodbury; Brody Jensen of Austin; April Kosuge of Madison, Wisconsin; Briana Jensen of Austin; Tara (Sean) Arndt of Waltham; Tiffany (Brian) Clemenson of Zumbrota; Justin Hulst of Waltham; Sam Hulst of Waltham; Tami (Nick) Ongoto of Maple Grove; Michelle (Tom) Christgau of Austin; Derek McAlister of Maple Grove; Korey (Michelle) Holtan of Rochester; Brandon (Veronica) Holtan of Rochester; 21 great grandchildren; siblings, Orrin (Marlys) Wiste of Stewartville; Dorothy Treangen of Waukon, Iowa; Betsy Sand of Spring Grove; Arnie (Naomi) Wiste of Austin; Lester Vongroven of Spring Grove; Carmona Wiste of Spring Grove; in-laws, Dale (Shirley) Madison of Brownsdale; Beverly Hanners of Owatonna; Betty (Chet) Daniels of Stewartville; Sandy (Darel) Klingfus of Austin; Barbara Wollenburg of Austin; many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Bernice Wiste; special grandson, Keith Wood; siblings, Arvid Wiste, Ione and Clifford Treangen, Alvina Vongroven, in-laws, George and Catherine Madison, Odell Treangen, Curtis Sand; brother-in-law, Harvey Hanners.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday at Crane Community Chapel with The Reverend Dale Christiansen officiating. Friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. A time to share memories will be held from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday at Worlein Funeral Home. The family prefers memorials to Alzheimers Research or Mower County Humane Society.

 Source: Worlein Funeral Home
 website, 12/7/2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary--

Clarence William Pesch, age 89 of Waltham, died Thursday afternoon, December 6, 2012 at Park Place Assisted Living in Owatonna where he was a resident. He was born August 3, 1923 to William and Dora (Reinke) Pesch in Waltham Township, Mower County, Minnesota where he grew up and attended school. He served in the Army during World War II from January 15, 1945 until November 30, 1946.

He married Dolores Granquist on June 25, 1950 at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, rural Waltham. They made their home in Waltham their entire married life. Clarence worked at Huntting Elevator in Waltham before going to work for Hormel Foods. A member of Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Waltham and American Legion Post 330 in Hayfield, he enjoyed traveling, going to the casino, fishing, bowling, old time music, dancing and spending time with the family.

Survivors include four daughters, Linda (Dennis) Fisher of Owatonna; Lori (Cullen) Taylor of Zumbro Falls; LuAnn (Mark) Callahan of Mason City, Iowa; Lisa (Victor) Burgeson of Rosemount; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brothers, Glenn (Alice) Pesch of Hayfield; Gilbert (Phyllis) Pesch of Lees Summit, Missouri; James (Marcia) Pesch of Waltham; sister, Delores Hahold of St. Paul; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dolores; three siblings, Florence, Dorothy and Norman.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Waltham with The Reverend Jeffrey Kuddes officiating. Interment is at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, rural Waltham with military rites by American Legion Post 330 of Hayfield. Friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday and at the church one hour prior to the service.

 Source: Worlein Funeral Home
 website, 12/7/2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

June Norma Morgan, age 96 of Blooming Prairie, died early Friday morning, December 7, 2012 at Mayo Health Systems in Austin. She was born August 15, 1916 to Jacob and Laura (Evans) Puchta in Springfield, Minnesota, Brown County. She graduated from Austin High School in 1934 and married Myron Morgan on June 26, 1935 in Austin. They made their home in Moscow Township where they farmed until 1951 before moving to the Blooming Prairie area. As they continued farming, June enjoyed gardening and growing plants. Myron passed away on September 3, 1979.

June moved into town in 1994. An avid reader, she enjoyed swimming, bowling, playing cards and traveling. Her nieces and nephews enjoyed the pickles that June raised in her garden and canned for them. She was famous for her homemade buns and lemon meringue pie.

Survivors include June's nieces and nephews, Kathryn (George) Dewey of Rochester; Donald (Paulette) Schlichter of Apple Valley; Charles (Nancy) Schlichter of Pueblo West, Colorado; Myron’s nieces and nephews, Anna (Jerald) Kelly of Austin, Minnesota, Rosemary Foulk of Mesa, Arizona, Clifford (Darlene) Hansen of Oregon City, Oregon, Ralph Morgan of Long Prairie, Minnesota, Beverly (Bruce) Johnson of Bloomer, Wisconsin, Steven (Bobbie) of Eagan, Minnesota, Hansen and Larry (Bonnie) Morgan of Jonesboro, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Myron; one sister and two nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at St. John Lutheran Church in Claremont with The Reverend Alan Broadwell officiating. Visitation is from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Monday at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Fairview Cemetery near Oakland, Minnesota. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

 Source: Worlein Funeral Home
 website, 12/7/2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Jean Thomas "J.T." Fortun, 91, passed away on December 1, 2012, surrounded by his wife and daughter.

J.T. was born on November 21, 1921, to Arthur and Ora Fortun. He graduated from Lyle High School in 1939. He joined the Army-Airforce during World War II and was stationed in England and France during the war.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Eleanor; daughter, Gail Fortun; sister and brothers-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Malins, Mrs. Emily Andrews, Mrs. Vi Andrews; and many nieces and nephews. J.T. was preceded in death by his son James, his mother and father and his brother Max.

A celebration of J.T.’s life will be held Saturday, December 15, 2012, between 2 and 4 p.m. It will be at the home of Ken and Pam Andrews, 12905 SE 44th Court, Bellevue, Wash. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library, 2021 Ninth Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 are requested.

Share memories with his family at www.becksfuneralhome.com.

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 8, 2012

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#2:

Jean Thomas (J.T.) Fortun passed away on December 1, 2012, surrounded by his wife and daughter.

He was born on November 21, 1921 to Arthur and Ora Fortun. He graduated from Lyle High School in 1939. He joined the Army-Airforce during World War II and was stationed in England and France during the War.

J.T. married Eleanor Andrews on November 1, 1946. In 1958 he joined Peoples Bank and moved to Washington State. He worked for Peoples Bank for 19 years, retiring in 1977 as a Branch Manager in Soap Lake, Washington. After retiring he helped Eleanor with her framing business (EM Fortun Frames) and volunteered many hours as a bailiff at the Grant County Courthouse. They lived in Ephrata for over 50 years before moving over to Kenmore, WA to be closer to their daughter.

J.T. and Eleanor loved to travel. They managed to see most all of the 50 states over the years. Hawaii was one of their favorite vacation destinations and they returned there many times. There were also special memories of Cruises they took through the Panama Canal, Alaska and the Mexican Riviera.

J.T. enjoyed all sports and spent many happy hours watching the Ehrata High School teams play basketball, baseball and football. He was also a big fan of the Mariners, Seahawks, Cougars, Huskies and Gonzaga teams. Another sports passion was golf. He enjoyed watching PGA and Senior Golf Tournaments. He was lucky enough to see some of the Tournaments in person in Palm Springs, Hawaii and Seattle over the years.

The outdoors was also a big part of his life. He loved to fish, hunt and trap. He was never happier than standing in his waders and flyfishing at Dry Falls Lake or walking along a creek looking for animal tracks.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Eleanor; daughter Gail Fortun; sister and brothers-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Malins, Mrs. Emily Andrews, Mrs. Vi Andrews and many nieces and nephews.

J.T. was preceded in death by his son James; his mother and father and his brother Max.

Source: Becks Funeral Home website.
www.becksfuneralhome.com.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Jeffery Stewart Grandy, 47, passed away on Tuesday, December 4, 2012. Jeff was born in Helena, Montana, on May 11, 1965.

Jeff was easily understood with simple answers to complicated questions. His answer to this would have been he had a mountain to climb or a lineman to meet. Jeff was the cement that held everything and everyone together. He built a foundation for all to follow in living an absolute life. So abundant and plentiful with his love, kindness and time for others that not a day went by when he wasn’t helping someone. Jeff set the bar extremely high. His character was honest and sincere and he always told you straight up. He believed in working hard and his passion was the trade and pride of that of a lineman. However, without a doubt and without fail, the top priorities in Jeff’s life were his two sons.

Jeff was a pillar of a man, so strong in every way possible with an enormous, genuine heart. Jeff gave to so many, it’s impossible to count. You didn’t have to know Jeff for very long and you knew you had a lifelong friend and he called you by name. For all, his generosity was there for the taking. Knowing and being a part of Jeff’s life is the greatest gift any of us could ask for. He wouldn’t want anyone to feel sorrow because it ended, but rather happiness because he made the journey happen. Jeff wasn’t along for the ride. He was the ride.

Jeff loved hunting with Cody, skiing with Colten and hiking the hills with Gene. At any given time, he always had a wingman. Jeff’s entire life was an adventure and his destination has been reached.

Most recently, Jeff was the assistant director of Mountain States Line Contractors Apprenticeship and Training. Jeff was the mentor and wise advisor to numerous apprentices entering a distinguished profession. Prior to entering into his new life-changing career, Jeff began as an apprentice lineman with Williams Construction after graduating from the Lineman’s School of Trade in Jackson, Minnesota. Jeff went on to become a journeyman lineman with Northwestern Energy. Before moving back to Montana, he was an electrician for Hormel Foods in Austin, Minnesota. Jeff attended Montana State University and spent time in the US Navy.

Jeff is survived by his sons, Cody and Colten, wife, Rhonda, parents, Lonnie and Gene. Sisters and brother-in-laws, Becky and Colin Douglas, Nicole and Lee Rice and Heidi Renshaw. Brother and sister-in-law, Ryan and Magalie Belanger. Nieces and nephews Amanda, Rachel, Colby, Tyler and Ryan, Ali and Bastien.

Never forgotten in Jeff’s life are his like-brothers Matt Wendt, John Kennedy and Mike Glueckert.

One could never overlook his hundreds of brothers and sisters throughout Montana in the IBEW. He was honored to be a part of you.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Jerry.

A celebration of Jeff's life will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, at the Gateway Center, 1710 National Ave. A reception will follow at the Gateway Center. In lieu of flowers, the family has established a trust fund for Cody and Colten at Rocky Mountain Credit Union, 3400 N. Montana Ave. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or share a memory of Jeff.

Jeff says, “Find your strength and carry on exactly where we left off.”

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 8, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Laurie J., Dittberner, 58, of Savage, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully December 6, 2012.

Laurie was preceded in death by her father, Les Hinks.

She is survived by her loving sons, Jake (Selina) Vaith and Nic (Carrie) Dittberner; grandchildren, Jermaine, Evan, Hudson, Gavyn and Jackson; mother, Viola (Francis) Moran; step mother, Betty Hinks; siblings, Marcia (Steve) Stenberg, Michael (Joan), Bruce (Barb), Mark (Kathy) and Dan Hinks, Todd Moran, Jennifer ( Steve) Dansgaard, Jody Hinks, Brenda (Al) Ledesma, Don Wells and Dean (Lorraine) Wells; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, December 11, 2012, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 8250 202nd St. W, Lakeville, Minnesota, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be donated to St. John's Church. Private interment will be held at a later date. Online condolences at www.whitefuneral homes.com.

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 8, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Date Of Birth: July 2, 1933
Date Of Death: December 9, 2012

Roger F. Baier, age 79, died Sunday, December 9, 2012 at Comforcare Good Samaritan Society in Austin surrounded by his loving family.

Roger was born on July 2, 1933 in Austin to Gust and Olga (Price) Baier. He graduated from Austin High School in 1952 and married Mary Jane Kolb on June 27, 1953. To this union five children were born and raised.

Over the years Roger worked various jobs in construction and held different positions in the buildings and grounds department of Austin Public Schools. He taught Carpentry at Austin Technical College and later became facilities manager at the college until his retirement in 1993. For 18 years after his retirement he enjoyed working for Medgaarden's Southwest Sales driving cars and running errands. His hobbies included camping, traveling, dining out, having garage sales and spending time with family.

Roger is survived by four daughters, Judy (Wayne) Enright, Mary Jo (Craig) Jones, Karen Baier, Linda Baier, and one son Chris (Kim) Baier, all of Austin. He was also blessed with six grandchildren, Chad (Jasmine) Enright, Michael Jones, Anna Enright, Lynae (Sam) Bednar, Nicholas Baier, and Kellie Baier. Other survivors include three great grandchildren, Keegan Enright, Addyson Bednar, and Red Enright; special friend Evelyn Svensen; brother Robert Baier; brother-in-laws, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary Jane, and two sisters, Helen and Avis.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 am on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. There will be a 6:45 pm wake service on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4-7 pm and also one hour before the service at the church on Thursday.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.

 www.mayerfh.com,
 December 11, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Date Of Birth: May 9, 1935
Date Of Death: December 9, 2012

Robert Harold Otterbein, 77, of Mankato, Minnesota died Sunday, December 9, 2012 at Oak Lawn Health Care Center.

He was born May 9, 1935 to Wilbur and Ruth Otterbein in Northern Iowa. His family located in Waltham, Minnesota. Robert married Marcella Boysen in Northwood, Iowa in 1958. He worked for Armstrong trucking and then for Hormel Foods for more than thirty years until his retirement. He also farmed with the Thoen Brothers for many years. Following his retirement he worked for Double K in Austin. During his adult life Robert and his family lived in Minnesota, California and Nebraska. He enjoyed gardening, collecting toy tractors, making wood projects and spending time with his family and friends.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Marcella, a brother Ronald, sister Sharon and granddaughter Sara. He is survived by son Todd Otterbein, daughter Lorrie (Mark) Sands, niece Sharon (Don) Luben, brothers: Larry, Loren Norbert, Norman and Wayne. Sister Gail, special nephew Ben Luben and grandson Cory Sands.

Funeral services for Robert Otterbein will be held at Crane Chapel in Austin on Thursday, December 13, at 11:00a.m. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 12 from 4:00 until 7:00p.m. at the Mayer Funeral Home in Austin. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Hayfield. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 www.mayerfh.com,
 December 11, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Funeral notice: Wilma M. Johnson, 89, Austin

Wilma M. Johnson, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, December 9, 2012, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home in Stacyville, Mitchell County, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 14, at Mayer Funeral Home with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating.

Visitation: Friends may call one hour before the service at Mayer Funeral Home on Friday.

Interment: Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

  Austin Daily Herald,
  December 12, 2012

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#2:

Wilma Mae (Kraft) Johnson 1923-2012

Wilma Mae Johnson, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, December 9, 2012, at the Stacyville Community Nursing Home in Stacyville, Iowa.

Wilma was born to William and Ethel Kraft on May 1, 1923, at home on the family farm near Dexter, Minnesota. She was the third child and oldest daughter in a family of seven children. She attended school in Dexter, Minnesota.

On October 10, 1942, she was married to Alton Johnson at St. Olaf Church in Austin. They resided in Austin where Al was employed at Hormel’s and Wilma was a homemaker. She enjoyed bowling and watching her favorite TV shows: “As the World Turns,” “Bonanza” and “Gunsmoke.” She loved to hang out a “nice wash on the clothesline,” to visit with the “neighbor ladies” and to find a great sale.

In March 2003, she moved to the assisted living wing of the Stacyville Community Nursing Home. While there, she became a top notch Bingo player and a champion table-top bowler. In fact, she became the first person to roll a perfect score of 300 in Stacyville.

She is survived by her son Bob (Lucy) Johnson; daughter Sherri (Greg) Grimley; three grandchildren, Sarah (Scott Foley), Aaron (Ronna) Johnson and Rebecca Grimley; five great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Samuel Foley, Austin and Riley Lucy Johnson and Micah Peterson; her special “Stacyville Family” (staff and residents); one brother, Wilbur; two sisters, Elinor and Carol. She is preceded in death by her husband; son, Jim; parents; brothers Leslie and Lawrence; and sister, Florence.

Funeral services for Wilma will be 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. There will be visitation at the funeral home one hour prior to services. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 Austin Daily Herald,
 December 13, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary--

Darlene V. Smith, age 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday morning, December 16, 2012, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin.

Darlene Vivian Jeglum was born December 25, 1927 near Oslo, MN to Obert and Hilma (Moen) Jeglum. After graduating from Hayfield High School in 1945, she worked at a clinic in Rochester. On October 23, 1948, Darlene married Duane R. Smith at East St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Rock Dell, Minnesota. The couple lived in Rochester until moving to Austin in 1951. Darlene was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin.

Survivors include her husband, Duane R. Smith of Austin; her children Lee R. (Cindy) Smith of Austin and Eric Smith of Long Lake, Minnesota; three grandchildren, Keri (Christopher) Holloway of Roseville, Kasey (David) Badzinski of Blaine, and Erin Bartos of St. Paul; two great-grandchildren Reagan and Reese Badzinski; a sister Phyllis (Maurice) Witter and a brother, Duane Jeglum, both of Rochester.

She was preceded in death by her parents Obert and Hilma Jeglum, son Randy R. Smith on June 9, 2007, sister-in-law Lois Jeglum.

Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday December 20, 2012 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Kristi Koppel officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church.

Source: www.worlein.com

---

Service Details--

VISITATION:
Date: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2012
Time: 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Location: St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Austin

MEMORIAL SERVICES:
Date: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2012
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Location: St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Austin

Worlein Funeral Home website, 12/20/2012
NOTE: Funeral rescheduled because of snow storm Draco.

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary

Kay Sandra Zahradnik, age 70, of Austin, Minnesota, died at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester Tuesday afternoon, December 11, 2012.

She was born August 31, 1942 to Otto and Arlys (Orr) Howard in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. The family moved to Rochester where Kay graduated from John Marshall High School in 1960. She began studies in physical education and teaching at Rochester Junior College, graduating in 1962. On June 22, 1963 Kay married Donald Joseph Zahradnik in Rochester. Kay was a bookkeeper and accountant for Woodland Resort which they owned and operated near Alexandria. They moved to Austin in 1983.

Kay was the book store coordinator at Austin Junior College which is now Riverland until her retirement in 2008. Donald passed away on June 19, 2010. Kay enjoyed bowling, fishing, reading, knitting and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren.

Survivors include three sons, Steve (Laura) Zahradnik of Rose Creek; Doug (Chris) Zahradnik of Austin; Kurt (Kaya) Zahradnik of Austin; three grandchildren, Megan, Bryce and Amanda; three sisters, Becky Bierbaum of Eyota; Dorothy (Jim) Welborn of Redding, California; Vicki Scharmer of Winona; mother-in-law, Agnes Zahradnik of Austin; brothers-in-law, Kenneth (Beverly) Zahradnik of Austin and Paul Pettersen of Stockton.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald, on June 19, 2010 and sister-in-law, LaVonne Pettersen.

Memorial Services will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with The Reverend Dr. Stephen DeFor officiating. Friends may gather to greet the family from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Interment is at Rose Creek Enterprise Cemetery, rural Austin.

 Worlein Funeral Home website,
  December 12, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Duane D. Meyer, 66, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday afternoon, December 13, 2012, at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Duane was born October 5, 1946, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Leonard and Ardell (Anderson) Meyer. He grew up in Albert Lea, then lived in Bancroft, Minn., and Oakland, Minn. After his marriage to Linda Christy on November 4, 1967, the couple lived in Austin. An employee of Hormel Foods Corporation for more than 23 years, Duane also worked at Cedar Valley as a bus driver for more than 12 years. He was a member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, and enjoyed woodworking, fishing and gardening.

Survivors include his wife Linda Meyer of Austin; his father Leonard A. Meyer of Hayward, Minnesota; daughter Victoria (Harrington) Meyer and son Richard (Trisha) Meyer, both of Austin; four grandchildren, Amanda, Candice, Zachary and Nathanial; four great-grandchildren, Aiyana, Mason, Rodney and Haydenn; his brothers, Leonard S. (Barb) Meyer of Oakland, Minnesota, and Darrell (Pam) Meyer of Albert Lea, Minnesota; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ardell Meyer, and two brothers Bruce and Robert.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2012, at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. David Fleischmann officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at a later date. Memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

  Austin Daily Herald,
  December 15, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb

 

Eugene “Gene” Charles Johnson, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday afternoon, December 13, 2012, at Our House Memory Care, Austin.

Eugene was born July 2, 1928, at the family’s Oak Lawn Farm in Albert Lea, Minnesota, the son of Percy and Mae (Stephan) Johnson. He was the third child and had three brothers, Robert (Bud), Clare (Dick) and Ronald (Ronnie). After serving in the United States Army in the Occupational Forces in Italy from 1946 until March 1948, Eugene married Betty Keith on October 8, 1950, in Albert Lea. He was employed at Wilson’s and also farmed. In 1969, the couple moved to Austin and then to Brownsdale, where he continued to farm. For 15 years, Gene and Betty owned and operated the Old Colony Home in Austin.

Gene was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church. After retirement, he enjoyed walking all around Austin and visiting with people that he met. Eugene and Betty were often seen on Sunday afternoons driving in the country to check on their farms and crops. For last few weeks they enjoyed watching momma deer and her twins live in the back yard.

Loved ones include Gene’s wife, Betty Johnson of Austin; two daughters, Peggy (Cletus) Ratigan of Austin and Nancy (Trent) Robertson of St. Cloud, Minnesota; one son, Randy Johnson of Brownsdale, Minnesota; nine grandchildren, Jennifer (Ty) Vlasaty, Kelly Oliver, Eric (Kelly) Johnson, Mark (Hannah) Ratigan, Brendan Johnson, Quentin Robertson, Natasha Robertson, Victori Robertson, Mikayla Robertson; five great-grandchildren, Emily Oliver, Emma Johnson, Mya Johnson, Noah Oliver, Caleb Ratigan; one brother, Ronald (Faye) Johnson of Prattville, Ala.; sisters-in-law, MariLynn Johnson of Rochester and Donna Giordano of Vail, Colo.; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Percy and Mae Johnson; brothers, Robert and Clare; sisters-in-law Sophie Johnson and Maxine Anderson; brothers-in-law Gilbert Giordano and Kenny Anderson; in-laws Ervin and Esther Stanton.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2012, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin, with the Rev. Brian Krueger officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with full military rites by VFW Post 1216 and American Legion Post 91. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Memorials can be directed to Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

  Austin Daily Herald,
  December 15, 2012

©2012 MNGenWeb