Ronald D. “Ronnie” Johnson Jr., 41, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital-Saint Marys Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

He was born Aug. 19, 1975, in Austin, the son of Ronald Dean Sr. and Barbara Ann (Newman) Johnson. He lived his entire life in Austin where he enjoyed music, sports, especially the Minnesota Vikings, boating and waterskiing. Ronnie worked for Kiker Brothers, All Weather Roofing and Asbesterol, all in Austin.

Survivors include his children, Brittany Johnson of Rochester, and Dakota Johnson, Jori Johnson, Jack Johnson, Owen Johnson, Henry Johnson, Gracie Johnson and Avery Johnson, all of Austin; his parents, Ronald Sr. and Barbara Johnson; brothers, William (Michelle) Johnson and Chris Johnson, both of Austin; sisters, Angela Johnson and Barbi Larson, both of Austin; his grandmother, Jurine Johnson of Albert Lea, Minnesota; several aunts and uncles; and great-aunts and uncles.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his grandmother, Ardis Newman; his grandfather, Roland Johnson; his uncles, Stanley Johnson, Robert Newman, Dennis Newman, and Norman Skauge; his aunt and uncle LaVonne and Earl Dahmen; cousins and other family members; and his godfather, Donald Tuttle.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, at Salvation Army Chapel in Austin with Lt. David Amick and Lt. Laura Amick officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the Salvation Army. Burial will be at a later date.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Richard D. Kellogg, 82, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2017, at his winter home in Cathedral City, California, from complications of heart failure.

Richard Duane was born in Austin to Kenneth and Olga (Oscarson) Kellogg. In 1951 Dick began his 40-year career with Hormel Foods Corporation. He entered military service during the Korean Conflict in the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge he returned home to Austin and continued his work with Hormel.

Dick was united in marriage to Mary Ann Keller on February 14, 1959, at First Baptist Church in Austin. Dick and Mary raised their two daughters and resided in Austin their entire married life. Dick was an avid golfer. In his retirement he continued to enjoy his love of golf, as well as his travels in the motorhome. Dick treasured time spent at his home in California, and absolutely loved his family! He was a “friend of Bill” for 50 years.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Austin and Cathedral City; daughters, Barb (Darwin) Lysne of Albert Lea, Minnesota and Lisa (Ward) Robinson of Austin; grandchildren, Vanessa Robinson, Amy (Dayton) Snyder, Zach Robinson and Dan Lysne; brothers, James (Karen) Kellogg of Walker, Gerald (Jeannine) Kellogg of Austin, and Ronald (Karen) Kellogg of Summerfield, Florida and sister, Ruth (Gene) Sarp of Summerfield.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Austin with Pastor Dennis Tamke officiating. The Kellogg family will greet friends on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Worlein Funeral Home, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Helen R. Bagne, 85, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Helen Ruth Anderson was born March 22, 1931, in rural New Richland, Waseca County, Minnesota, the daughter of Otto and Ruth (Hanson) Anderson. She was baptized at Vista Lutheran Church, which was organized by Swedish settlers in 1858. Helen’s great-grandfather, Lars Hokanson, was among those founders, and his handmade loon is on exhibit in the Waseca County Historical Society Museum in Waseca. The present church building was built in 1908 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Helen’s father, Otto, was of Norwegian descent and her mother, Ruth, of Swedish descent. Growing up on an 80-acre farm, she attended country school and as a teen had to get up at 5 a.m. to help milk cows. Helen also played the organ at church as a teen before graduating from New Richland High in 1948 with a special interest in Latin.

On July 7, 1948, this shy farm girl and a shy farm boy from northern Waseca County (Iosco Township), also of Norwegian and Swedish descent, who graduated from Waseca High School in 1948 and whose name was Myrwood Andrus Bagne, had their first date. Three years and 364 days later on July 6, 1952, they were united in marriage at Vista Lutheran Church. Helen’s first two college years were at Gustavus Adolphus College and in 1950 she transferred to St. Olaf College, majoring in Latin and courtship. Helen and Myrwood graduated in the class of 1952. She worked to help support them during the three years Myrwood studied at Luther Seminary in St. Paul and his year of internship at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown, South Dakoka, in 1954-1955. He graduated from seminary in 1956.

Their first parish was at Frost, Minnesota, serving United Lutheran Church in town and Dell Lutheran Church in the country. During their four years at Frost, Kristin Ann was born on Jan. 8, 1957, and Karen Elizabeth on Nov. 28, 1959, both at the Blue Earth Hospital. In early 1960, he was called to be the first pastor of the new church in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, which he named Christ the King Lutheran Church.

In late December 1963, he began serving Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield, Minnesota, which lasted 27 years. Both Helen and Myrwood felt Helen’s first calling was to be a full-time mother to their daughters and assisting him to serve as a pastor, both of which she did with her love, prayers, and loyalty, with distinction and grace, which many former parishioners would affirm. During their last years in Hayfield and early years in Austin, Helen served part-time for 16 years in the activity department of Field Crest Nursing Home in Hayfield.

The Bagnes moved to Austin when Myrwood was called to be chaplain at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home, where he served from January 1990 through April 1998. In retirement, Myrwood served as interim pastor at St. Paul Maple Leaf Lutheran in rural Elma, Iowa, from May 1998-1999, Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church, rural Austin, from May 1999-January 2001, and a summer interim at Deer Creek Lutheran in Carpenter, Iowa, in 2005. In 1971, the Bagnes began a series of wonderful trips to Europe. Kristin and Karen accompanied them for the first five or six trips.

It was a thrill tracing ancestral roots in Norway and Sweden, as well as traveling in Denmark, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Later it was challenging but highly informative for them to travel on their own in East Germany in 1983 in honor of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther and in 1985 for the 300th anniversary of Johann Sebastian Bach and Handel.

In Myrwood’s first and only sabbatical in 1987, the Bagnes studied at the American Summer Institute for Clergy in Les Avant, Switzerland. Together they attended several winter pastoral conferences at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, and one time at the seminary associated with Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Trondheim, Norway was celebrating its millennium with tall ships in the harbor at the end of July 1997 when Helen and Myrwood attended a conference on theology and music, sponsored by St. Olaf College and the Lutheran Church in Norway. Special worship and music sessions were held in the famous Nidaros Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and burial site for St. Olaf. They were the second group to meet in a new conference and Cultural Center. It was their last trip to Norway and Europe. During their stay in Austin, Helen always accompanied her husband while he preached in over 70 churches in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. She always played the piano for the midweek services at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home and accompanied Myrwood when he sang solos for church worship services and at funerals. Helen participated in Sacred Heart Care Center’s Adult Day Care-Memory program beginning in March of 2014. On Dec. 9, 2015, she became a resident of their nursing home facility. Her family is profoundly grateful for the skilled and loving care she received there. Helen will be and is sadly missed by her husband, Myrwood, of Austin; her daughter, Kristin and her husband, Henry Huang, and their sons, Billy and Benjamin of Madison, Wis.; her daughter, Karen and her husband, Syd Pederson, of Roseville, Minnesota; and by many friends and former parishioners. God bless her memory. We are grateful to share her forwarding address — “The Father’s House.” Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Austin, and at 3 p.m. at Vista Lutheran Church, rural New Richland. Interment will follow at the Vista Lutheran Church cemetery. Memorials can be directed to Luther Seminary in St. Paul, St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, or Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Kevin Daniel Ash, 34, beloved son, grandson, brother, uncle and friend, formerly of Owatonna, Minnesota, passed away at 12:50 a.m. on January 15, 2017, from complications due to a traumatic brain injury that he sustained playing rugby on Sept. 21, 2013.

Kevin is survived by his maternal grandparents, John P. and Doris Carlson of Newark, Ohio; his mother, Joy Carlson Kieffer of Buffalo, Minnesota; step-father, Steve Martin of Owatonna; his father and step-mother, Daniel and Gloria Ash of Austin, Minnesota; his brother, Connor Martin of Buffalo; his sister, Erica Ash (Dusty Gibson) of Paintsville, Kentucky; his nephew, Gunner Gibson; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Howard Ash and Marianne Ash of Cornell, Wisconsin; his great-grandmothers, Minnie Ash and Ruth Brown Hammer, also of Cornell, Wisconsin, Peter and Gladys Carlson of Wheaton, Minnesota, and Mae Ellen Taylor Conklin, of Newark, Ohio.

Visitation will be held at the David Lee Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20. A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, Jan. 21, at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 E Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata, Minnesota. Burial with military honors will be held at Fort Snelling Cemetery later this spring.

Memorial donations may be given in honor of Sgt. Kevin Ash to any of the following organizations: Wounded Warrior Family Support, Wounded Warriors, Freedom Farm, Star in the East Lodge, you church of choice, Concussion Legacy Foundation, Caring Bridge, or any charity of the donor’s choice. The families of Joy Kieffer and Daniel Ash wish to thank all those who held Kevin up in prayer through his deployments and these past 41 months following his injury.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Pending notice: Virginia Janson, 68

Virginia Janson, 68, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at her home in Austin.

Memorial services are pending with the Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

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

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 16 JAN 2016

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Funeral notice: Virginia L. Janson, 68

Virginia L. Janson, 68, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at her home in Austin.

Service: Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, with the Rev. Dr. Steve DeFor officiating.

Visitation: Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service.

Interment: Interment will take place at 1:35 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017, in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Dale D. Knowlton, age 94 of Austin, Minnesota died Thursday morning, January 19, 2017, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin.

Dale Darwin Knowlton was born October 2, 1922 in Luverne, Minnesota the son of Grant and Ada (Dysart) Knowlton. He attended school in Luverne before entering the United States Army in 1941, serving during World War II. He returned to Minnesota where he began working at Gambles Clothing.

On November 8, 1947, he married Shirley Eitreim at Palisade Lutheran Church near Luverne, Minnesota. The couple moved to Austin in 1957, where Dale worked as a salesman with Jacobsen Buick and later Dibbles Buick Pontiac. He later owned and operated Knowlton Realty. Dale enjoyed playing (and winning!) at snooker, and was a very talented crafter and painter. He loved to walk, and was great dancer. After retirement Dale enjoyed many bus trips, and loved his travels to many destinations especially Hawaii.

He was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church where he served on the church council; a lifetime member of VFW Post 1216 and a past member of the Mower County Senior Citizen Center.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Knowlton of Austin; children, Jill (Steve) Johnson of The Villages, Florida, Steven (Brenda) Knowlton of Lakeville and Susan (Bradley) Bednar of Austin; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30 P.M. on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Intern Pastor Erin Coutts officiating. Interment with military honors by VFW Post 1216 and American Legion Post 91 will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be held from 11:00 to 12:30 P.M. on Sunday prior to services at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Worlein Funeral Home, 19 JAN 2017
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 30 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Roger "Rotor" Mullenbach, 58, of Adams, Minnesota, died Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, after he finished cleaning the roads in Rose Creek, Minnesota.

Roger was born on Jan. 17, 1958, in Osage, Iowa, to Erwin and Johanna (Koenigs) Mullenbach. He graduated from Southland High School in 1976 and worked for Osmundson Bros. and RDS Trucking.

He was a member of the Adams Sons of the American Legion, Southland Sportsman Club and Ducks Unlimited. Roger enjoyed playing cards, gardening, hunting, ice fishing, checking the crops, auctions and spending time with family and friends.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 15 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Eugene Clifford Chrz, 73, of Lakeville, Minnesota, passed away January 4, 2017.

He is survived by his children, Tom (Amber) Chrz, and Jill (Mike) Culver; grandchildren, Nikki and Levon; sister, Darlene (Clarence) Henderson; one niece and several nephews.

He was preceded in death by wife, Diana Chrz; and his parents, Clifford and Josephine Chrz.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 9 at the White Funeral Home, 14560 Pennock Ave., Apple Valley, Minnesota, with a visitation one hour prior to service. Interment will be at Lebanon Cemetery, Apple Valley.

White Funeral Home, Apple Valley 952-432-2001 www.whitefuneralhomes.com

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 6 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Harold F. Rudd, age 86 of Austin, Minnesota died Monday morning, December 26, 2016, at the Adams Health Care Center.

No services are being planned at this time.

Source: Worlein Funeral Home website, 29 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Anne Marie Newman, age 83 of Austin, Minnesota died peacefully at her home on Thursday, December 15, 2016.

She was born December 18, 1932 in Fort Atkinson, Iowa to John and Matilda (Nolte) Drucker. Anne grew up near Myrtle, MN. She met Leslie Newman in Austin while waitressing at the Wagon Wheel, and the couple married November 12, 1955. Leslie passed away in 1981 after nearly 26 years of marriage. Anne held other jobs over the years, including at the Hallmark store, Bell Liquor, and REM as a caregiver for 12 years.

She was an accomplished seamstress, and enjoyed making Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. A member of the V.F.W. and the American Legion Auxiliary, Anne’s most precious time was that spent with her family. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Anne is survived by her daughters Susan (Dean) Edmundson of New Braunfels, TX and Penny Harrington of Miller, MO, her son Brad Newman of Rose Creek, stepson Lon (Janet) Newman of Wisconsin; five grandchildren: Jenna Grant, Luke Harrington, Rachel Shea, Liza Underdahl, and Josie Harrington; three great-grandchildren: other relatives and many wonderful friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Leslie Newman in 1981, her brother Edwin in 1989, and her daughter Jolene in 1992.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at the Hormel Home in Austin. The Newman family will greet friends from 1:00-1:30, immediately preceding the service. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to Anne’s family or recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

Worlein Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 26 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Pending Notice: Alice Bette Haney, 93

Alice Bette Haney, 93, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 24, 2016, at St. Mark’s Nursing Home in Austin.

Memorial services are pending with the Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

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

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 26 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Robin R. "Bobbie" Osmundson, 51, of Austin, Minnesota, died at her home on Tuesday, December 20, 2016.

She was born June 11, 1965, in Austin, Minnesota, the daughter of David and Ardy (Titus) Osmundson. Bobbie graduated from Austin High School in 1983 and went on to Riverland Community College where she received her associate’s, CNA and TMA degrees.

Over the years, Robin worked at the Adams Group Home, Cardinal Homes of Minnesota’s Southwind House in Austin, The Cedars of Austin and the Good Samaritan Society-Comforcare Center in Austin. Bobbie had a big heart and was a wonderful caregiver to those who needed her care.

Robin (Bobbie) was a wonderful mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her father, David Osmundson, grandparents, Herbie and Margie Osmundson and Edward and Arthamese Titus.

Bobbie is survived by her daughter, Hailey Osmundson of Austin, Minnesota; mother, Ardy Osmundson of Austin; sisters and brothers-in-law, Dana and Brian Hegge of Austin, and Kristi and Eric Keath of Faribault, Minnesota; nieces and nephews,Courtney (Jordan) Barnes of Pine Island, Minnesota, Mitchel (Jessica) Hegge of Austin, Carlie Hegge of Austin, Erika Keath of, Spokane, Washington, and Cullen Keath of Rochester, New York, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and at the church for one hour before the service on Wednesday morning.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 25 DEC 2016

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Funeral Notice: Robin R. "Bobbie" Osmundson, 51

Robin "Bobbie" R. Osmundson, 51, of Austin, Minnesota, died at her home on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2016.

Service: A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating.

Visitation: Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and at the church for one hour before the service on Wednesday morning.

Interment: Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 22 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

ST. ANSGAR, IOWA — Doris Louise Greiner Kirchgatter, 93, of St. Ansgar, Iowa, died December 16, 2016, at her home at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar. Louise broke her hip during a fall and although surgery went well, Louise’s recovery didn't.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2016, at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, St. Ansgar, Iowa, with the Rev. Dr. Rhoda Preston officiating. Burial will be in the Woodbury Cemetery, Lyle, Minnesota.

Visitation is scheduled for one hour prior to service at the church.

Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home of St. Ansgar is in charge of arrangements.

Louise was born October 18, 1923, the youngest daughter of Pearle Elsworth and Cora Mae (Copeland) Greiner. She grew up on a farm south of Carpenter and graduated valedictorian of her class from Otranto High School.

She married Earl, the love of her life, on Oct. 29, 1941, at the Methodist Church parsonage in St. Ansgar. Louise and Earl spent their entire 68 years of marriage in the St. Ansgar area — most of it on the family farm northwest of town. After her children were in school, Louise worked for years as a cook for the St. Ansgar school system in Carpenter, Grafton and St. Ansgar and enjoyed the friendships she made with her co-workers.

Louise is survived by her children, Gary of St. Ansgar, Shirley Waddle of Waterloo and Kevin (Lynn) of St. Ansgar; her grandchildren Todd (Sandy) Kirchgatter of Rosemount, Minnesota, John Kirchgatter of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Brian (Allison) Kirchgatter of North Liberty, Iowa, and Jason (Elizabeth) Kirchgatter of Lincoln, Nebraska; great-grandchildren, Kaela and Karly Kirchgatter, Ethan Kirchgatter, Jaxon Kirchgatter, and Ava and Drew Kirchgatter. Louis is also survived by many nieces, nephews and her good friend Patsy Schotanus.

Louise is preceded in death by her husband Earl; her son Keith; her parents; thirteen brothers and sisters; her Kirchgatter brothers/sisters-in-law with whom she and Earl spent many, many Sunday family get-togethers; and her good friend and neighbor RoseThorson.

In lieu of flowers, please direct any memorial to Good Samaritan Center (Box 340, St. Ansgar, IA 50472) or St. Croix Hospice (915 North Linn Ave., Suite 5, New Hampton, IA 50659).

We are thankful for the love and friendship of Louise Kirchgatter, our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend. Godspeed dear child of God. … No longer do you have to wonder what heaven looks like.

Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, St. Ansgar, 641-713-4920, www.schroederandsites.com.

Source: Mason City Globe Gazette, 19 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Marilyn Hackensmith, 88, of Austin, died Monday, Dec. 19, 2016, at Sacred Heart Care Center, where she resided.

Marilyn Mae Balfe was born June 19, 1928, in Austin, the daughter of Matthew and Viola Balfe. A lifelong resident of Austin, she was a graduate of Austin High School. She married Everett Hackensmith on March 7, 1948, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin, and the couple enjoyed 50 years of marriage together. Marilyn cherished living in the country and raising her children there.

She loved her flower gardening, and she took great pride in canning her own vegetables and jams, and making a good home for her family. Her hobbies included sewing, knitting, reading, golfing, bowling, and she especially looked forward to dancing on Saturday nights with Everett.

She is survived by her children, Craig (Joanne) Hackensmith of Gilbert, Arizona, Debra (Gary) Cottrell of North Branch, Minnesota, Steven (Julie) Hackensmith of Austin, Scott (Shawn) Hackensmith of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, and Everett (Brenda) Hackensmith of Austin; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild, and another is due in March. Also surviving is a sister, Karen (Steven) Sorenson of Hayward, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1998; two sisters, Rochelle Petersen and Pat Benson; and a brother, Marshall Anderson.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 23 at First United Methodist Church in Austin. The Rev. Dennis Tamke will officiate. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. at the church on the day of the service. Burial will be at Grandview Cemetery in Austin.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online tributes are being welcomed, and may be written at mayerfh.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, Wed., 21 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Susan L. Hofer, 60, of Austin, Minnesota, died peacefully Monday morning, Dec. 19, 2016, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

Susan Louise Hufford was born July 7, 1956, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the daughter of Frank and Irene L. (Shreze) Hufford. She graduated from Brandon (South Dakota) High School and attended Pipestone Community College. Susan married Carl Parmley and to this union two children were born. The couple later divorced. Susan married Ricky Hofer on Oct. 6, 1990, in Brandon, South Dakota. The couple raised four children.

After moving to Austin 17 years ago for Rick’s job, Susan went to work in the quality service department at Quality Pork Processors. Among Susan’s favorite pastimes were playing video games, baking and cooking, taking trips to the casino, and traveling. She especially enjoyed their vacation spot in Las Vegas. Susan loved her dogs and liked listening to 70s and 80s music and listening to her wind chimes. She was a Minnesota Vikings fan, and loved jewelry. A very caring and loving person, Susan treasured her role as mom and grandma. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Susan is survived by her husband, Ricky Hofer; her children, Amanda (Ron) Hidalgo of Centerville, South Dakota, Michael (Tiffany) Parmley of Republic, Missouri, Alicia (Travis) Joritz of Bismarck, North Dakota and Alana (Bill) Willis of Sioux Falls; seven grandchildren, Zachery and Cody Parmley, Brandon, Austin, and Dylan Joritz, and Avery and Elyse Willis; her brother, Frank Hufford of Sioux Falls; her sister, Marilyn Blackburn of Brandon; and her two dogs, Cocoa and Shorty. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 23, 2016, at Brandon Lutheran Church, 600 East Holly Blvd., Brandon, with Pastor Scott Hackler officiating. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 22 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with a prayer service starting at 6:30 p.m. led by John Riley. There will also be a visitation one hour prior to the service at the church in Brandon on Friday. Interment will be in Brandon Cemetery, Brandon. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, Wed., 21 DEC 2016
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 20 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral Notice--

Gerald A. "Jerry" Hesch, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, succumbed to complications from Alzheimers surrounded by his family on Dec.15, 2016.

Service: A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2016, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating.

Visitation: Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday.

Interment: Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home.

Memorials: Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Care Center.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 19 DEC 2016

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Obituary for Gerald "Jerry" Hesch

Gerald A. "Jerry" Hesch, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, succumbed to complications from Alzheimers surrounded by his family on December, 15, 2016.

Jerry is survived by his wife Dorie, daughters Peggy Ellingson, Pam Hesch, Candy Bakker (Gary), Kathy Strasser, Robin Spande (David), Mary Roszkowski (Matt), and sons Joe Hesch and Mike Hesch (Lisa), and many loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Jerry was a loving father, husband, grandfather and friend to all as well as a great provider for his family. Preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Bertha Hesch, his sister, Irene Thrower, his brother Raymond (Pat) Hesch.

Jerry was born in Barnes County, North Dakota on April 26, 1927. He was the son of Alfred and Bertha Hesch. He attended a country school in N.D., his parents moved the family to Minnesota and he attended Sumner grade school in Austin and high school in Albert Lea, MN.

Those that knew and loved Jerry, knew he had a wonderful sense of humor and he loved working to provide for his family. He worked as a bus driver early on and it was then that he met and fell in love with the love of his life, his wife Dorie of 69 years. He often worked two jobs to support his family, nights at Hormel and ran heavy equipment during the day.

After retiring from Hormel he worked as a mechanic at Cedar Valley in Austin, Minnesota, until he had his second retirement at age 80. He also enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, car races and shooting his black powder gun, which he assembled himself.

A special thank you to the staff at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin, MN for their loving care and support. They went above and beyond what was expected of them. Also thank you to Mayer Funeral Home for all of the service arrangements.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 12:30 pm on Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Care Center. Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com

Source: Mayer Funeral Home website

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Robert (Bob) John Barrett, 57, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016, at his home.

Robert was born on Dec. 6, 1959, to John and Marjorie (Grimm) Barrett in Osage, Iowa.

On June 4, 1983, Robert married Cheryl Abben and had two children, Allison and Amanda. They later divorced. In December 1992, he married Orene Berge and had two children, Megan and Jonathan and they later divorced. Robert then met his longtime partner, Patricia Briones, and welcomed a daughter, Kaylee.

Robert enjoyed fishing and working on cars. He was very proud to be a grandpa and loved all his grandkids.

Robert is survived by his long time partner Patricia Briones; daughters, Allison Barrett, Amanda Barrett, Megan (Brent) Foster and Kaylee May; son, Jonathan (Haley) Kraus; his grandchildren, Isiah, Preston, Ava, Mikalya, Constance, Kyvrik, Kaydn and Adelynn; his mother, Marge Olson; sisters, Donna (Gary) Harig and Karla (Chris) Eaton; brothers, Bruce (Elaine) Barrett and James Barrett; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, John Barrett; step-father, Carl “Ole” Olson; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Robert will be cremated and laid to rest at a later date in Osage, next to his father.

Memorial donations can be made to the family.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, 15 DEC 2016

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Robert John Barrett

December 06, 1959 - December 13, 2016

Robert (Bob) John Barrett, age 57, of Austin, MN, died Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at his home.

Robert was born on December 6th, 1959 to John and Marjorie (Grimm) Barrett in Osage, IA.

On June 4, 1983 Robert married Cheryl Abben and had two children, Allison and Amanda, they later divorced. In December of 1992, he married Orene Berge and had two children, Megan and Jonathan, they later divorced. Robert then met his longtime partner Patricia Briones and welcomed a daughter Kaylee.

Robert enjoyed fishing and working on cars. He was very proud to be a grandpa and loved all his grandkids.

He is preceded in death by his father John Barrett, step-father Carl “Ole” Olson and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Robert is survived by his long time partner Patricia Briones; daughters: Allison Barrett, Amanda Barrett, Megan (Brent) Foster, Kaylee May; son: Jonathan (Haley) Kraus; his grandchildren: Isiah, Preston, Ava, Mikalya, Constance, Kyvrik, Kaydn, and Adelynn.

Mother: Marge Olson; sisters: Donna (Gary) Harig, Karla (Chris) Eaton; brothers: Bruce (Elaine) Barrett; James Barrett, and many nieces and nephews.

Robert will be cremated and laid to rest at a later date in Osage, IA next to his father.

Memorial donations can be made to the family.

Source: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website

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Born: December 13, 1937
Died: December 9, 2016

Bertha Olson-Augustin, age 78, died Friday, December 9, 2016 at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

Private family services will be held at The Cedars of Austin at a later date.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family.

Source: Worlein Funeral Home 16 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Evelyn A. Dankert, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, December 10, 2016, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

Evelyn Ann Enright was born November 18, 1932, in Austin, Minnesota, on a large family farm, the daughter of Claude and Pearl (Gilliland) Enright. She was united in marriage to Donald Dankert on May 11, 1957, in Austin. She worked for the Geo A. Hormel Company in the Spam line. After the children arrived, she enjoyed being a homemaker, and was an independent woman. In her spare time, Evelyn enjoyed crossword puzzles, knitting sweaters, playing golf, and playing bingo at Mystic Lake Casino. She was a member of First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her children, James (Bridgette Reinsmoen) Dankert of St. Paul, Thomas (Sheri) Dankert of Austin and Susan (Rick Cole) Dankert of Playa Del Carmen, Mexico; four grandchildren, Erin, Jack, Vivienne and Theodore Dankert; four brothers, Scott Enright of Racine, Wisconsin, George Enright of Eyota, Minnesota, Edwin Enright of Garner, Iowa and Allen Enright of Ankeny, Iowa; two sisters, Norma Regner of River Falls, Wisconsin and Valeria Janeski of Longmont, Colorado; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald, in 2011; a brother, Charles Enright; and a sister, Doris Corbett.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church, with Pastor Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald -- Dec. 14, 2016

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Funeral Notice: Kathryn R. Dennis, 85

Kathryn R. Dennis, 85, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, at Our House Memory Care.

Service: Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jeff Forbes officiating.

Visitation: Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Worlein Funeral Home.

Interment: Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald -- Dec. 14, 2016

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Kathryn R. Dennis, 85

Kathryn R. Dennis, 85 of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, at Our House Memory Care. Kathryn Ruth Krokus was born Jan. 16, 1931, in Austin, the daughter of John and Alice (Asper) Krokus. She received her education at Lincoln Elementary School and Austin High School. Kathryn worked at St. Olaf Hospital as a nurse’s aide in the nursery, Younkers as a sales associate and Ellis Middle School in the nurse’s office.

On Oct. 25, 1975, she married Donald Dennis in Austin. Kathryn was a member of Grace Lutheran Church. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, crafts and agate hunting on Lake Superior. Kathryn also loved camping and traveling, making trips to Florida, Europe, Greece, the Grand Canyon and the Calgary Stampede.

Survivors include her husband, Donald Dennis of Austin; a daughter, Janis Borum of Monessen Pennsylvania; two sons, David Howe of Odessa, Texas, and James Armbrust of Austin; two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; a sister, Marilyn DeFiorie of Anaheim, California; two step-daughters, Donna Dennis of Austin and Shari (James) Freitag of Edina, Minnesota; six step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; four step-great-great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, William Krokus; her first husband, Leonard Armbrust; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jeff Forbes officiating. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Worlein Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald -- Dec. 13, 2016

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Helen Marie (Gardner) Hale, 94, formerly of Rochester, Minnesota, died on Dec. 10, 2016, at her home with her daughter in Rose Creek, Minnesota.

She was born on Oct. 10, 1922, to Charles W. and Sadina Gardner in Chatfield, Minnesota. She married Charles B. Hale on April 15, 1945, at Camp Fannin, Tyler, Texas. They had one daughter, Roberta Jean Schwartz.

Helen was a Rochester resident and retired from Mayo Clinic. She was a member of the American Legion and VFW Auxiliaries and Christ United Methodist Church of Rochester.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Roberta Schwartz. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles B. Hale, her parents, and son-in-law, Charles Schwartz.

The funeral service for Helen Hale will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec.14, at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester with Pastor Nancy Wheeler Handlon officiating. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens in Rochester.

Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on December 13 and one hour before the service at Macken Funeral Home, 1105 12th Street Southeast, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be designated to Christ United Methodist Church (400 Fifth Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55902) or to the Division of Hematology at Mayo Clinic (gifts can be mailed directly to Mayo Clinic, Department of Development, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, 13 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral services for June Freeman will be held 2:00 P.M. Monday, January 16, 2017 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, Minnesota, with Pastor Betsy Dartt. Burial will take place at the Spring Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be held 1:00-2:00 P.M. Monday, January 16, 2017 at the church. Hindt Funeral Home of Spring Valley, MN is in charge of arrangements.

June Freeman, age 84, of Spring Valley, Minnesota, passed away Friday, January 13, 2017 at the Spring Valley Care Center.

June J. Fox was born June 5, 1932 in rural Mower County, Minnesota, to Clarence and Ida (Anderson) Fox. She graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1950. On August 17, 1952, June was united in marriage to Darrell Freeman at Bear Creek Lutheran Church in rural Grand Meadow, Minnesota. Darrell owned and operated Freeman Construction where June assisted with the bookkeeping for the company. Family was very important to June. She loved spending time camping on the farm and at their place in Arizona.

June is survived by her son Daniel (Vicki) Freeman of Golden Valley, Minnesota; grandson, Nathaniel Freeman of Golden Valley, Minnesota; brother, Jack (Elsie) Fox of Racine, Minnesota; sister, Betty Brandt of Grand Meadow; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Ida Fox; husband, Darrell Freeman; son, Dean Freeman; brother, Irvin Fox; and sister, Arlene Anderson.

Condolences may be left online at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com

Source: Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Betty L. Hansen, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, December 10, 2016, at her residence. Betty Lou was born on March 25, 1932, in Deer Creek, Minnesota, to Hartzel and Mertie (Lane) Porter. She attended Wadena County country school. Betty was united in marriage to Everett F. Frisbie on June 18, 1950. Betty and Everett were blessed with three daughters, Sharon, Sue, and Cindy. Everett passed away in September 1984. Betty married Lawrence H. Hansen on Sept. 11, 1987, and they resided in Austin.

She is survived by her daughters Sharon Wilmuth of Minneapolis, Sue (Ken) Penkava of Austin, and Cindy (Pat) Tracy of Lake Stevens, Washington; step-daughter, Ellen (Nolan) Bacon of Wadena, Minnesota; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Gerald (Peggy) Porter of Deer Creek; sisters, Doris Edholm of Hudson, Wisconsin, and Vivian (Ron) Olson of Clitherall, Minnesota; sister-in-law, Leona Porter of Deer Creek; step-children Laurie (Dan) Brett of Salt Lake City, Lee (Joni) Hansen of Austin, Linda (Bruce) Cook of Long Beach, California, Linton Hansen of Austin, Lisa (Michael) Bononi of Altadena, California, and Lana (Stewart) Sheffield of Plano, Texas; 13 step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Everett Frisbie in September 1984 and Lawrence Hansen in July 2016; son, Todd Frisbie in April 1978; son-in-law, Darryl Wilmuth; granddaughter Mary Beth Penkava; siblings, Melvin Porter, Donald Porter, and Estella (Carl) Loween; and brother-in-law, Nels Edholm.

In accordance with Betty’s wishes a private memorial service is planned. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the American Cancer Society, or donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, 13 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral notice: Stephen F. Sand, 66

Stephen F. Sand, 66, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016, at his home.

Service: A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016,in the chapel at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church Building Fund, Austin Area Commission for the Arts, The Hormel Institute, or the donor’s choice.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, 13 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

April 11, 1949 - December 6, 2016

Donald Lewis Hatten, age 67, of Brownsdale, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, December 6, 2016.

Donald was born April 11, 1949 in Austin to Arnold and Walburga (Rahe) Hatten. He graduated from Pacelli High School in 1967. Donald was an avid runner and was co-captain of the first cross-country team at Pacelli, with an undefeated season, ending in a fifth place at state. He then attended Austin Junior College and Mankato State College.

Donald married Sharon Dodds in August 1970. He was then drafted into the United States Army in 1971 and served during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged. They returned to Brownsdale where their children, Kathleen, John, and James were born. Donald and Sharon later divorced.

In October 1990, Donald married Cheryl Mayzlik, and her children Yvette, Michele, and Jesse joined the family. With this union, Derek and Tereasa were born.

Donald worked for Great Plains Supply Co. and Hormel Foods Inc. Most recently he worked at Hentges Glass Co. for the past 30 years. He also served as a firefighter for the Brownsdale Volunteer Fire Department for 24 years.

Donald enjoyed playing softball and volleyball, watching Minnesota sports teams, fishing, reading, doing puzzles, traveling, and spending time with his family. Survivors include his wife, Cheryl, Brownsdale; children, Kathleen (Jeff) Neve, Austin, John (Jyl) Hatten, Austin, James (Cortney) Hatten, Brownsdale, Derek (Mariah) Hatten, Byron, Tereasa Hatten, Brownsdale, Yvette (Aaron) Louks, Hayfield, Michele Mayzlik, Jacksonville, FL, Jesse (Michelle) Mayzlik, Rochester; grandchildren, Gabe and Abbey Neve, Bradyn and Bryce Hatten, Caitlynn and Brody Skjervem, Christian and Cooper Hatten, Gabrielle, Vanessa, and Sophia Louks, Carter Ziegler, Camden and Callan Mayzlik; siblings, Alice (Richard) Jensen, Phil (Sarah) Hatten, Dave (Pam) Hatten, Joe (Lucille) Hatten, Barb Mensink, Margie Sprick; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Judy Hatten, Roger Schramm, Donna Ward, Linda (Larry) Gravenish, Debbie Paulson, Elvin (Jeri) Alwes, Kevin Alwes, Richard (Liz) Alwes, Tammy (Mike) Srock; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Janet and Georgia; brother, Eugene; twin brother, Daniel; brothers-in-law, Russell Mensink, Ronald Paulson, Dale Schnebly; sister-in-law, Teri Schnebly.

A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 am on Monday, December 12, 2016 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield with Rev. Paul Hauschild and Father Raul Silva officiating.

Friends may call from 4-7 pm on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Monday. Military rites will be by American Legion Post #330. Private interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

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

Source: Mayer Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 9 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Leona Alma Swenson, 98, of Austin, Minnesota, died at St. Mark’s Living on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016.

Leona was born April 23, 1918, in Pickerel Lake Township in Freeborn County, Minnesota, to William and Minnie (Wittmer) Krueger; she was the third of seven girls. She attended country school through eighth grade.

Leona married Welcome (Abe) Osborn in 1937. They had three children and later divorced. She worked as a waitress and then worked at Hormel for 30 years. She met and married Robert Schnorenberg and they later divorced. She opened Leona’s House of Ceramics where she taught and sold ceramics for many years. She became interested in porcelain dolls and turned her shop into strictly making dolls. Leona loved making them and was especially talented at creating and dressing them with clothing she sewed. She was extremely artistic in china painting, sewing and carpentry work. She married Harris Swenson on Jan. 5, 1977, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin and they worked together and enjoyed traveling in their motor home for almost 25 years. Leona was very proud of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Leona is survived by her sons, Robert (Dee) Osborn, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina and Manly (Judy) Osborn, Denton, Texas; daughter, Janice Andree, Austin; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters: Berneta Hansen, Albert Lea, Minnesota and Rosie Somnis, Schroeder, Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Helen Swenson, LeRoy, Minnesota, and Pat Swenson, Rochester, Minnesota; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harris Swenson; sisters, Marie, Millie, Marvel and Harriet; and son-in-law, David Andree.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Rev. Joshua Johnson officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be at the mortuary one hour before the service on Saturday. Source: Austin Daily Herald, 8 DEC 2016

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Duane O. Osmonson, 85, of Staples, Minnesota, passed away Nov. 27, 2016, at the St. Cloud Hospital.

Duane was born Dec. 7, 1930, in Manchester, Minnesota, to Rufus and Valda (Boe) Osmonson. He was united in marriage to Betty Pump at St. Augustine’s Church in Austin, Minnesota, on Dec. 2, 1950. In 1952, Duane entered the U.S. Army, where he served for 21 years. He was the maintenance director for the Gerard School in Austin for many years. Duane was a member of St. Augustine’s; he also attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Staples. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and the Eagles club. A hobby farmer, Duane enjoyed gardening and raising flowers. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, dancing, and playing cards.

Duane is survived by Betty, his wife of 65 years; his children, Cheryl Osmonson, of Rochester, Greg Osmonson, of Staples, Brian (Lynette) Osmonson, of Pattonsburg, Missouri, Cynthia (Bruce) Whiteaker, of Austin, Keith (Julie) Osmonson, of Hutchinson, Minnesota, and Carolyn Osmonson, of Austin; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; four brothers, James, Merlin, Errol, and Craig; and two sisters, Dorothy and Marilyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Lowell and Don, and two infant brothers.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Austin. Visitation will be at the church during the hour prior to Mass.

Arrangements are entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel of Staples.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 8 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Lorraine Gaard, 98, of Oakland, Minnesota, died Friday, December 2, 2016, at the Mayo Clinic, St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

Lorraine was born April 16, 1918, at the Clausen family farm near Kiester, Minnesota. Lorraine was the youngest child of Carl Peter and Marie (Bendickson) Clausen. She had eight older sisters and three older brothers. Lorraine was baptized at Bethel Lutheran Church in Vinge, Iowa, by Pastor Fjelstad and confirmed at the Lutheran Church in Kiester by Pastor J. A. Arneson. Lorraine’s education began in the rural one-room school near the farm and continued at Kiester High School where she graduated in 1937. She then attended the Naeve Hospital School of Nursing, graduating as a registered nurse in 1940.

Lorraine had nursing positions at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin, Minnesota and the Coleman Hospital in Estherville, Iowa. During this time she was courted by Marvin Gaard and they were married in Kiester on Jan. 14, 1942, at the home of her sister Maureen and her husband Joice Rovang. They rented farms near Frost and Thompson, Iowa, before purchasing the present farm near the Oakland Lutheran Church in 1951. The Oakland farm has been her residence since 1952. Lorraine returned to work as a nurse at the St. Olaf Hospital in Austin in 1959 and worked on the surgical floor until her retirement in 1978. She was head nurse from 1975 to 1978.

She is survived by her sons, Sheldon and Lamoyne; grandchildren Lisa (husband Trevor), Jason Gaard and Izabella Gaard; great-grandchildren Aubrey, Caleb, and Sofi Gaard and Slater and Phoenix DeRaad. There are also many cousins and other relatives. Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband Marvin, in 2008; her son, Adrian, in 2007; and all eight of her sisters and three brothers.

Lorraine requested that gifts be made to Lutheran Day Nursery in Chicago, Psalm of Life, Pastor Nataneal Lutheran Mission in Columbia, the Plymouth Youth Center in St. Paul and the Navajo Mission in Arizona rather than flowers at the funeral.

A service of Christian Burial will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016, at Oakland Lutheran Church. Rev. Waldemar Gies will officiate. Interment will be at Oakland Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, 2016, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church. Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 7 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Shirley Fay Montgomery, 91, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away December 2, 2016.

She was born March 22, 1925, to Adolph and Gladys Paegel and was raised in Mankato, Minnesota.

She lived in Austin for 60 years and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 1216 in Austin.

She is survived by her children: Linda of Hayward, Minnesota, Jerome Wing and Lorrie Lang of Austin, Mark Montgomery and Connie Nessett of Missouri, and Rodger Montgomery of Austin.

She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and a sister.

The family is very grateful and thankful for the care she received from her two granddaughters, Cindy Kilby and Vanessa Davis.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 7 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Ruth Elsie Brill, 99, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died November 1, 2016, in Boca Raton, Florida.

She was born on March 17, 1917, in Green County township of Brooklyn, Wisconsin. Ruth was the only child of Hanna and William Behnke.

Ruth grew up on an 80-acre farm helping her parents with milking and feeding the chickens, in Dayton Wisconsin. She met her husband, Marvin, while attending Stevens Point State Teachers College in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, where she received a degree in home economics and art.

Ruth and Marvin were married in 1940 and moved to Austin where they purchased the Peggy Ann store. The name was later changed to Marvin’s. When Marvin joined the Army Air Corps, Ruth ran the women’s clothing store. She broke the glass ceiling at a young age and kept climbing ever since!

Ruth had a varied career, teaching home economics and art at St. Augustine Grade School; serving as president at both the Austin BPW and Austin YWCA; and president of the local chapter of the Girl Scouts.

In 1956 Ruth took a pioneer cross country road trip with eight screaming girls to the birthplace of the Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia, in a 1956 Buick Road Master station wagon, blessed by the priest from St. Augustine church.

The family moved to a farm north of Austin in 1959. For her it was like going home, except she had an affinity for fine clothes and always being overdressed. This became a problem when the cows got into the cornfield. You could see her leading the charge of chasing the cows in her high heels.

If something needed to be done, she jumped to the cause. When someone needed something, she was there. When two young boys needed a foster home, she took them in; when someone needed plane fare, a hot meal, or a stern lecture about never giving up, she was there to provide it.

Ruth and Marvin moved to Florida in 1980 where she became involved with quilting circles and taught three quilting classes weekly, until the school district made her retire at the age of 95.

She was a lifetime member of the Gold Coast Quilters Guild. During that time she developed many close friends and students; they adopted her as their mom. After she retired, they continued to come to her home for quilting classes and socializing. We will forever be grateful to these ladies who befriended and supported Mom, literally to her dying day. Your friendship and support have meant so much to us all!

She is survived by her four children, Suzanne McCarter, and Mark, Bruce and Robert Brill; grandchildren, Colleen McCarter Bloom, Catherine and Robert McCarter, Owen and Ava Brill, Laura Brill Elmore, Matthew and Charles Brill, Christopher Brill; and great-grandchildren, Thor, Gabby, Ellie, Emanon, Sophie, Herschel, and William; and honorary children of the Brill family, Kristina Harmon, Karen Austin and Steve Thornton.

She was preceded in death by husband Marvin Brill.

Visitation is Friday, Dec. 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Babione Funeral Home, 1100 Federal Highway, Boca Raton, Florida, 561-395-8787.

Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec.10, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 380 S. Federal Highway, Deerfield Beach, Florida, 33441.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Ruth E. Brill Fund for underprivileged boys and girls who are interested in sewing by providing sewing machines. In care of Ruth E. Brill Fund, 11700 Vista Drive, Minnetonka, Minnesota, 55343.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 7 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

David H. Symes, 82, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, December 5, 2016, at Cottagewood Senior Community in Rochester, Minnesota, from complications of Lewy body dementia.

David was born October 5, 1934, in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, to John Harold and Hilda T. (Tollefson) Symes. He was baptized at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church in rural Austin, where he also was married to Donna Lysne on Nov. 2, 1957. The couple raised one daughter. David took over the family’s century farm in Blooming Prairie with his brother. In addition to farming, he was also a laborer at Hormel Foods Corporation and worked as a body man at local garages in Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Minnesota, and Albert Lea, Minnesota. David was a member of UFCW Union Local 9, and in his younger years enjoyed stock car racing. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Symes of Austin; his daughter, Susan Symes, of Austin, two brothers, Richard A. (Imogene) Symes of Blooming Prairie, and Charles E. (Fran) Symes of Beaufort, South Carolina; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Burial will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, at Red Oak Grove Lutheran cemetery in rural Austin. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 6 DEC 2016

©2017 MNGenWeb