Born: October 17, 1939
Died: January 26, 2017

William J. "Bill" Koopal, 77, of rural Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, died Thursday, January 26, 2017, at his home.

He was born October 17, 1939, in Sheldon, Iowa, the son of Cornelius and Jennie (Buss) Koopal. Bill grew up in Lyle, Minnesota, and graduated from Lyle High School. He worked for Alton Wilder Farms, and then for the Freeborn County Co-op.

Bill married Eileen Gilbertson at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin on August 29, 1959. The couple raised two daughters. He went to work for Hormel Foods Corp. in 1972 and worked there until 1986. Bill owned a house-moving company, which he operated until he retired in 2000.

He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church where he was an active volunteer. Bill loved gardening, canning, fishing, cooking and baking, woodworking and antiquing. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play their sports, and treasured any time he could spend with his family and friends.

Bill belonged to the Eagles Club, served as a 4-H leader, and was on the board of Woodbury Cemetery in Lyle, Minnesota. He also enjoyed his card club. Bill will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his daughters, Kellee (Marti) DeMay of St. Peters, Missouri, and Kathi (Rick) Overocker of Albert Lea, Minnesota; four grandchildren, Travis Armstrong (Lisa Copeman), Stacie (Rob) Perry, Tyler (Gabrielle) DeMay and Carter DeMay (Jody Weber); great-granddaughter, Genevieve DeMay; brothers, John ‘Jack’ Koopal of Des Moines, Iowa, and Sam Koopal of Lyle; and as several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Eileen in 2013.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with Todd Portinga, AIM, officiating. Visitation will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 30, 2017, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Interment will be in Woodbury Cemetery, Lyle, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the St. Olaf Lutheran Church Building Fund or the Woodbury Cemetery. 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, 29 JAN 2017, and Worlein Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Barbara Kay Christofferson Deatherage, 68, passed away on January 21, 2017, in Wichita Falls, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home in Wichita Falls. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, at P.E.T.S. Clinic, 500 Wichita St., Wichita Falls. Interment will be in Crestview Memorial Park.

Barbara was born on July 15, 1948, in Austin, Minnesota, to Raymond and Esther Buehner Christofferson. She married Timothy Deatherage on Dec. 28, 1977, in Austin. He preceded her in death in 2004. Barbara was a retired bookkeeper for King and Freeman CPA, LLP in Wichita Falls. She was involved with the Humane Society, P.E.T.S. Clinic, and the Underdog Express in Wichita Falls. She was involved with Helping Hounds of New York City. She had lived in Wichita Falls for 40 years, moving from Austin.

Survivors include her children, Todd Deatherage of Wichita Falls and Amanda Deatherage Folden and husband Nathan of Leesburg, Florida; four sisters: Sharon Barnes and husband Keith, Delores Moe, Phyllis Paulson and husband Tom, and Mary Herrick and husband Jim, all of Minnesota; and grandchildren, Jennie Folden and Bentley Folden. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Muriel Schwartz; and three brothers-in-law, Ronnie Moe, Anthony Deatherage, and Terry Deatherage.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to P.E.T.S. in Barbara’s honor.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 22 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Peggy (Mary Margaret Cummings) Stier, 92, -- a wife, mother, artist and musician -- passed away peacefully with her family around her.

Peggy was born in Cresco, Iowa, in 1924 to Paul and Mame Cummings. She had one sister, Paula. Their family moved to Austin, Minnesota where her grandfather, T.F. Cummings, founded the bottling works.

Peggy enjoyed helping at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company with her father and grandfather. Later Peggy and her sister, Paula, rode and showed her father's award-winning American Cream and Saddle-Bred horses around the Midwest. Peggy attended St. Catherine's University in St. Paul, Minnesota, earning a degree in music. She then attended Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan earning her B.A. in art and pottery.

Peggy was united in marriage to Hugh Stier in September of 1950 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. They had eight children: Melissa, Daniel, Matthew, Peter, Nicholas, Ann, Katherine and Suzanne.

Peggy is survived by her eight children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren too numerous to mention.

Peggy was preceded in death by her beloved husband Hugh of 61 years, her sister Paula Stier.

Peggy enjoyed teaching art and music lessons to her grandchildren.

She is part of our lives and will inspire us forever.

An open house for Peggy will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday January 30, 2017, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Spring Valley, Minnesota.

Condolences may be left at www.Hindthudekfuneralhomes.com

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 29 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Pending: Vera Carney, 95

Vera (Hildreth, Pace) Carney, 95, a long-time resident of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, of complications of dementia.

Her family is planning a memorial for her in early summer. Details will follow closer to the date.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 29 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Nancy K. Laite, 70, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, died at home surrounded by the love of her family on Friday January 27, 2017.

She was born on August 24, 1946, in Austin, Minnesota, the daughter of Arnold and Margaret “Peggy” (Fink) Stuhr. She graduated from Pacelli High School in Austin.

On October 10, 1964, she married her soul mate, Tom Laite. They lived in Austin for a time and she did some babysitting.

They moved to Albert Lea and through the years she had worked at a nursing home and a music store. She began working for an abstract business and then went into partnership and owned and operated her own abstract company. She sold her share of the abstract business and worked for the assessor’s office at the Freeborn County Courthouse. Due to her failing health she retired from the assessor’s office in 2010, a job she much enjoyed.

Nancy had many interests. She loved going fishing with the family, collecting ornaments and things, playing cards and traveling, especially the annual scenic drive to Wisconsin to get apples. Mostly, she enjoyed spending time with family and watching Tara play soccer and Ryan play hockey brought her much joy.

Nancy will be deeply missed by her family, husband Tom; daughter, Christi Chirpich (Jamie Boerner) of Albert Lea; grandchildren, Tara Chirpich of Rosemount, Minnesota, and Ryan Chirpich of Albert Lea; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Vernon (Judy) Laite Jr., Gary Laite, and Patricia Bergland (Ron Miranda) all of Albert Lea; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Peggy Stuhr; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vernon and Twyla Laite.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2, at Bonnerup Funeral Service. The Rev. Russell Scepaniak will officiate. Interment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Bonnerup Funeral Service and one hour before service at the funeral home.

Nancy was at Thorne Crest Senior Living Community for a short time where she made many close friends and was cared for by many special nurses and staff. Special acknowledgement to Crystal Serrano and the Hutchins family.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 31 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Mary Lorrene (Ludvigson) McAlister, 97, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Mary was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on February 19, 1919, and was the sixth of eight children born to Elmer and Mary Victoria (Richardson) Sowers. She graduated from East High in Des Moines and worked part time, helped out at home caring for her younger two sisters and summers with an older sister who owned and managed a resort near Crosslake, Minnesota. It was at this resort where she met her future husband, Alvin M. Ludvigson. They were married on Aug. 14, 1942, in Princeton, Missouri, and lived in Des Moines for approximately six years prior to moving to Austin, her husband’s hometown and making it their permanent residence. The couple had one child, Christene.

Mary worked several years at Gildner’s Clothing Store as a bookkeeper and secretary. Later she managed and retired from the S&H Green Stamp Store in 1974.

Mary and Alvin enjoyed vacationing and spending their retirement years in the Crosslake area until his death in 1993.

In 1998, she married Guy McAlister of Austin who died in 2007. After his death, she resided with her daughter and son-in-law in Rochester. Mary was a wonderful pianist, blessed with the ability to play piano by ear. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed cooking. She was a devoted friend to many and treasured time spent with family. She was a life long member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Christene Henricks, Rochester; grandsons, Douglas Henricks, Burnsville, Minnesota, and Benjamin (Kimberly) Henricks, Rochester; great-grandchildren, Cheyenne Henricks and Mason Henricks of Rochester; brother-in-law, Tom Cunconan, Richardson, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Alvin Ludvigson; second husband, Guy McAlister; brothers DeForrest and Wayne Sowers; sisters Rosetta Sillick, Irene Freed-Wallin-Gau, Viola Thomas, Yvonna Hagman and Juanita Reed Cunconan; and son-in-law Herbert Henricks.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Thursday, Feb. 2 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Rev. Susan Rector Li officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be at the mortuary one hour prior to the service on Thursday.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 31 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Dawn Egge, 46, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, at Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna, Minnesota, after a short, hard fought battle with cancer of unknown primary.

Dawn Merrie Egge was born July 23, 1970, in Austin, Minnesota, the daughter of William and Marlis (Weitzel) Hallman. She grew up in Austin and Emmons, Minnesota, attending school in both places. On March 16, 1991, she was united in marriage to Ronald Egge. Dawn earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Rasmussen College, summa cum laude in 2014. She worked as an accountant at Hormel Foods Corporate Offices. Dawn enjoyed crafts, camping, rendezvous, pool league, travel, live music, concert shows, and making wine. She also loved fishing, spending quality time with family, and enjoying a cold beverage.

Dawn is survived by her parents, Marlis (Ron) Thompson and William Hallman; husband Ronald; children, Fredrick (Kristen), Brianna (Cody), Lauren (Brandon), and Lyndsey (Jesse); grandchildren, Lane and Jameson; siblings, Bill (Terrie), Ben, Johnny, and Bo; and eight nephews and one niece.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father-in-law, Elsie and Harold Egge; other loving family members; and beloved dogs Shelby and Toby.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home. Pastor Kent Otterman will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1 at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com.

A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Homestead Hospice House for all they did for Dawn in her final days.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 31 JAN 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

March 26, 1925 - January 30, 2017

U.S. Veteran

Maynard J. Root, 91 of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, January 30, 2017, at Good Samaritan Society ComforCare Center.

Maynard James Root was born March 26, 1925 in Pleasant Valley Township, Mower County, the son of Melvin and Helen (Johnson) Root. Maynard graduated from Spring Valley High School and enlisted in the US Navy. He married Phyllis Nash on December 27, 1946 at Spring Valley, Minnesota. They moved to Austin where Maynard was a longtime employee of Austin Utilities, working as a Stationary Engineer.

Maynard was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church and a member of the Austin Moose Club and served as Governor for a number of years. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting and working on the farm with his son-in-law. Maynard and Phyllis enjoyed traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Phyllis; son, Jamie; sisters, Ruth and Joyce and brothers, Clare, Westly, Gene and Warren.

Maynard is survived by his children and their spouses; Dennis & Judy Root Stockton, MN, Diane & James Rogne, Austin, MN, Janelle & Steve Solberg, Nisswa, MN, Timothy & Linda Root, Creston, IA; 14 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; sister: Ilene Churchill, Ostrander, MN; brothers and sisters-in-law: Merton & Marlene Root, Ostrander, MN, Allen & Betty Root, Rochester, MN, Roger & Kathy Root, Wabasha, MN, Glendora Root, Burnsville, MN, Dolores Root, St. Louis Park, MN; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 4th at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church with the Reverend Karen Behling officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery with Austin Post #91 American Legion and Olaf B. Damm, Post #1216 Veterans of Foreign Wars in charge of military rites. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and at the church on Saturday for one hour before the service. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church building fund.

Source: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 2 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

John Francis Dolan, 85, of Glenview, Illinois, passed peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours of Tuesday, January 24, 2017.

John and his wife Anne had only just returned from a three-year stay with family in Austin and hoped to make this their ?nal move closer to Chicago, where both were born. In recent years John had been experiencing the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on May 1, 1931, on the south side of Chicago during the Great Depression, John was the second child of Irish immigrants James and Margaret Dolan. He had two brothers, Thomas (deceased) and James, as well as sister Rosemary. Like many who grew up during these challenging times he contributed to his family performing a bewildering number of jobs including: hauling ice, milk crate deliveries, pharmacy delivery boy, school janitorial assistant, construction worker and grave digger — including one occupied by Alphonso “Al” Capone!

At the same time he attended Saint Sabina and Leo High School, where he excelled at track and field, boxing and theater, most notably in “The Pirates of Penzance.” The years following were characterized by perpetually con?icting schedules of work and night school. Important among them was the Fox Secretarial College where he ?rst met his wife to be, Anne Korich. Inevitably, the Korean War demanded that thousands “heed the call,” among them John, who served the U.S. Army honorably for more than two years in Korea. He attained the rank of first sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star. Flash-forwarding: on the golf course, shopping at Home Depot and barbecuing in the backyard John would be identi?ed by his Korean War veterans cap.

After the war there was a 12-year succession of various colleges and universities including IIT, Villanova and St. Joseph, while raising his family of four and rising through the corporate ranks. At a mid-point in his business life John was selected to participate in the Executive Program at the University of Chicago, earning his MBA, again at night. Professionally, John pursued a career in Industrial Relations, specializing in union contract negotiations and pension plans for major companies and corporations such as Ryerson Steel, Trans Union and the Marmon Group — this last, the 100-company holding corporation created by Robert Pritzker to whom John reported directly.

Throughout his life the Catholic Church and its teachings forged the core belief system, which steered him and by his example, his family. One small personal footnote: most people who knew John well did not know that he was a remarkably skilled home remodeler; complex masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical and HVAC construction work was performed with the stressful and unquali?ed assistance of his family.

When retirement ultimately altered the rhythm of his daily life, it would be no exaggeration to say that John’s life was allowed to become even more dedicated to his wife Anne, to whom he was married for 64 years; and their children, Daniel Dolan, Susanne (Robert) Johnson, Thomas (Christine) Dolan and Mary Margaret (Carter) Wagner. Occupying an even more special place were his children’s children: AnnMarie (Andrew) Fereday, Margaret (Aaron) Wozniak, Ryan Dolan, Dolan (Kate) Wagner, Thomas Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Patrick Wagner and Daire Dolan. Long life pays its greatest dividend in the form of great-grandchildren and John had four: Henry, Peter, Annie and Jack with two additional grandchildren (yet to be named) on their way.

Lastly, the message that John F. Dolan would leave to all his family and to all of you: “Facta Non Verba” — Deeds, not words.

Mass of Resurrection was held at Our Lady Of Perpetual Help in Glenview on Jan. 28.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 2 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

June 19, 1929 - February 13, 2017 (age 87)

Funeral services for Thaulow "Sky" Hovda will be 2:00 P.M. Friday February 17, 2017 at Bear Creek Lutheran Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 P.M. Thursday February 16, 2017, also at Bear Creek Lutheran Church and will continue for 1 hr prior to the service.

Thaulow "Sky" Hovda, age 87, of Wabasha, Minnesota, died Monday February 13, 2017, at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Wabasha.

Thaulow Norman Hovda was born June 19, 1929, on the family farm north of Grand Meadow near Bear Creek to Thaulow and Amalia (Bengtson) Hovda. He attended and graduated from Grand Meadow High School in 1948 and attended Collage in Winona for a short time. On June 23, 1950, he was united in marriage to Donna Eastlee. She passed away in 2003. "Sky" was drafted into the United States Army in 1951 and served for approximately one year in Korea and Japan before his discharge in 1953.

He returned to the family farm and later went to work for Freeborn-Mower Electric where he worked as a lineman for 33 years retiring in 1989. “Sky” was a member of the VFW in Wabasha, was a member of several bowling leagues throughout the years and was also a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Wabasha. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, trapping, tying flies and fly fishing. He also enjoyed hunting for agates and ginseng. “Sky” was a very humble man.

He is survived by his wife Darlene of Wabasha, MN who he was united in marriage on August 5, 2010 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. Also surviving are his children; Todd (Catherine) Hovda of Kasson, MN, TeriJo Hay of Arlington, TX and Camille (Jeff) Lechnir of Kasson, MN, Step children; Jeff (Koni) Sorensen of Zumbro Falls, MN, Jon (Kelli) Sorenson of Hayward, WI and Rusty (Melanie) Sorenson of Mazeppa, MN, six grandchildren, seven step-grandchildren, and five step-great-grandchildren, one sister, Amalia (Howard) Paschke of Blue Earth, MN and Hjalmer (Gretchen) Hovda of Progresso, TX.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Donna; two brothers, Herman and Oliver; and by three sisters: Margaret, Betsy and Freda.

Condolences may be left at www.Hindtfuneralhomes.com

Source: Hindt Funeral Home website

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Robert D. Johnson, 86, of Glenville, Minnesota, died Wednesday, February 1, 2017, at Prairie Senior Cottages in Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Robert Dean Johnson was born Oct. 1, 1930, in Northwood, Iowa, the son of George and Alice (Sime) Johnson. He grew up in the Myrtle, Minnesota, area, graduating from Albert Lea High School. Bob served in the U.S. Navy for four years. On Jan. 14, 1952, Bob married Marvel Hansen in Sargeant, Minnesota. He was a rural letter carrier with the U.S. Postal Service and a farmer. Bob was a member of Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church, the Rural Letter Carriers Association, and a 60-year member of American Legion Post 264. He enjoyed hunting, trap shooting, riding horses, whist, cribbage, and other card games, snowmobiling, bowling, and spending time with family, especially the grand and great-grandchildren.

Bob is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marvel of Glenville; children, Cindi (Dwight) Muth of Emmons, Dean Johnson and friend Shirley Carlson of Kiester, Minnesota, Craig (Deb) Johnson of Owatonna, Minnesota, Brad (Diane) Johnson of Burnsville, Minnesota, Jodi (Mike) Benson of West Concord, Minnesota, David (Sandy) Johnson of Glenville, Patti Johnson and friend Mark Wright of West Concord; 18 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; brother, DeVerne “Bud” Johnson of Northwood; sisters-in-law, Janet Goodrich and Donna Hansen; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, George and Alice; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Gene Banken; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Juhl and Virginia Hansen; brothers-in-law, Merlin Hansen and Jim Hansen; and sisters-in-law, Janice Schilling and Darlene Johnson.

Memorial services for Bob will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, at Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church. The Rev. David Efflandt will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by the VFW and American Legion Honor Guard. Friends may greet the family from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 6, 2017, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 3 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary

William "Wild Bill" McAnally, age 91 of Austin, Minnesota died Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Health System Austin.

He was born July 23, 1925 in Austin to John W. and Clara (Robinson) McAnally. Bill attended Austin Public Schools and was active in Golden Gloves boxing.

He served his country in the U.S. Navy. Bill was united in marriage to Lenora Morris on September 29, 1949. He held several jobs over the years in Austin, including street maintenance for the City of Austin, working as a truck driver, as a custodian at Riverland Community College and at the Salvation Army. He and Nora made many trips to California. While living in Long Beach, CA, Bill was head painter at the hospital there.

Survivors include his five step-grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lenora, his brothers John, James, Joseph, Patrick, Paul and David, and step-sons Robert and Harold Shaman. Bill will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

A graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 with Military Honors by V.F.W. Post 1216 and American Legion Post 91. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

Source: Worlein Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary for Sara Urbina Cena

Sara Urbina Cena, age 68, of Austin, died Sunday, January 29, 2017, at her home.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 am on Saturday, February 4, 2017, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Raul Silva officiating. There will be visitation from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in Cementerio Refugio in Villachuato, Michoacán, Mexico.

Source: Mayer Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Memorial Services for Arden Lenz will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, Minnesota, with Pastor Betsy Dartt. Visitation will be held Saturday, February 4, 2017, from 10:00-11:00 A.M. at the church prior to the service. Burial will be in the Spring Valley Cemetery at a later date.

Arden K. Lenz, age 77, of Spring Valley, Minnesota, died Monday, January 30, 2017, at the Spring Valley Senior Living in Spring Valley, Minnesota.

Arden K. Lenz was born August 30, 1939 at Saint Marys in Rochester, Minnesota, to Walter and Ollie (Johnson) Lenz. He graduated from Le Roy High School in 1957. On September 25, 1959 he was united in marriage to Marjorie Gehrking at the First English Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, Minnesota. Arden worked for 32 years at Martz Furniture in Le Roy where he did customer service and sales. Along with working at the furniture store, Arden also worked as a custodian at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ostrander, Minnesota, the Le Roy-Ostrander School, and Kingsland School. Arden loved spending time doing furniture restorations.

Arden is survived by his wife Marjorie Lenz of Spring Valley; daughters Denise (David) Bihner of Prior Lake, Minnesota, Kristin (Jim) Rendahl of Plymouth, Minnesota; grandchildren Joe Abbott and Matthew Bihner; great-grandchild Layla Abbott; brother Marvin (Carol) Lenz of Spring Valley, Minnesota; and his special furry friend Pester Puss.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Donations may be made to the American Lung Association in Minnesota, or to the foundation of the donor’s choice.

Source: www.HindtFuneralhomes.com

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

LaVonne F. Walter, age 91, of Rochester, Minnesota, died Saturday January 28, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Hospital – St Marys Campus in Rochester.

LaVonne F. Bacon was born September 26, 1925 to Benjamin and Viola (Perdue) Bacon in LeRoy Township, Mower County, Minnesota. She was number 10 of 16 siblings. She attended school through the 8th grade.

LaVonne was united in marriage to Leo Joseph Walter on February 5th, 1948, in Faribault, Minnesota. Leo died January 24th, 1967. They had no children. She enjoyed putting puzzles together and spending time with family.

She is survived by one sister, Evelyn Jean Strain of Rochester, a niece Dorothy (Don) VanTries of Spring Valley, a nephew Rod (Nancy) Bacon of Barnett, Missouri, and many other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband several siblings and nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday February 1, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in Spring Valley with Rev Joe Haynes. Burial will take place in the Spring Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 12 noon until the time of service at the church.

Condolences may be left at www.Hindthudekfuneralhomes.com

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Veteran

Duane John Helland, 92, a longtime Stewartville, Minnesota area farmer died on Wednesday, February 1, 2017, surrounded by his family, at the Grand Meadow Health Care Center in Grand Meadow, Minnesota, where he had been a resident for the past four years.

Duane was born at home on September 3, 1924 to John and Hazel (Hanson) Helland at McCallsburg, Iowa.

He lived all his childhood on that same farm and graduated from McCallsburg High School in 1943. He enlisted into the U.S. Army in 1944, serving in Okinawa and with the Occupational Forces in Japan. He was staff sergeant with the 11th Airborne Paratroopers when honorably discharged in November 1946. He married Mary Bloomberg on Oct. 31, 1948, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. They farmed near McCallsburg, Iowa, then near Grand Meadow and for 31 years near Stewartville. Mr. Helland was a lifelong farmer. Mrs. Helland was a farmwife and homemaker and was employed for a few years at J.C. Penney Co. in Austin, Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic in Rochester for 25 years in their business office. After retiring in 1993, the Hellands moved into Stewartville.

He was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church. Duane was a member of the Stewartville American Legion, where he was recently honored for his 70-year membership. Duane and Mary were members of the Stewartville Seniors and were avid travelers, including trips to Europe, New Zealand, Australia and many of the 50 states. He enjoyed listening to music — country western and jazz and loved time spent with family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Duane is survived by his wife, Mary; three daughters and one son: Mark (Lois) of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Kathy (Ron) Jensen of Austin; Diane (Alan) Peterson of Eyota, Minnesota, and Carol Smith (Ed Kunz) of Paynesville, Minnesota; 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, Helen Joyce and infant grandson,Jeremy.

The funeral service for Duane will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2017, at Zion Lutheran Church in Stewartville with Rev. Byron Meline and Rev. Kim Cassidy officiating. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Stewartville with military graveside honors by Stewartville American Legion Post 164. A time of visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday morning. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville. www.griffin-gray.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 5 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Lawrence M. Larson, 92, passed away on Tuesday, February 1, 2017, at the Ecuman Sand Prairie Assisted Living Community in St. Peter, Minnesota, where he resided for the last five years.

Lawrence Larson was born November 5, 1924, to Carl A. and Hannah (Monson) Larson and raised on a farm near Brownsdale, Minnesota. Lawrence was the youngest of seven children (Stella Luthe, Alma Mallan, Chester, George, Ruth DeMets, and Helen) all who have preceded him in death except for his loving sister, Helen Rushton, who lives in Austin, Minnesota.

Lawrence, along with his wife of 65 years, Arlene M. (Helleck), farmed outside the Austin area for 25 years of their marriage. Following that time, Lawrence became a passionate salesman working with other farmers through feed and seed sales to improve the health of the farm animals while helping the farmer realize their highest production.

Upon his retirement, Lawrence set aside over 100 acres on his 270-acre farm near LeRoy, Minnesota, into the Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) program where three ponds, along with multiple tree groves, wild flowers and prairie grasses, were planted to support wildlife. It was a thrill for him to see the song birds, the pheasants, the deer and the fish multiply on this property. These 100 acres will be preserved to perpetuity. He had always hoped that his grandchildren would come back and build homes on the RIM land. “He has the perfect, beautiful building sites picked out for them.”

Lawrence is survived by his children, in order: Daniel (Mari) Larson, West Des Moines, Iowa, Karmen (Joseph) Artmann, Arvada, Colorado, Kathy (Robert – deceased) Walton, Williston, North Dakota, Steve (Sandy) Larson, Ellsworth, Wisconsin, Mary (Steve) Fisher, St. Peter, Minnesota, and Leif Larson, Eugene, Oregon; many loving grandchildren, Sonja Nelson, Des Moines, Iowa, Rene’ Larson, Ft. Collins, Colorado, Emily Gienapp, West Des Moines, Peter D. Larson, Longmont, Colorado, Matthew Sherwood, Des Moines, Candace Sherwood, Des Moines, Scott Carlson, Baltimore, Maryland, Sharon Carlson, Concord, Massachusetts, Joe Walton, Williston, North Dakota, Nina Kainz, Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Rachel Braun, Mankato, Minnesota, Jim Fisher, St. Peter, and Travis Fisher, Mankato; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Lawrence’s body was donated to the Mayo Clinic for research and teaching purposes. The celebration of Lawrence’s life and memory is delayed until late spring or early summer of 2017. The family will send out a timely notice to those who want to share in this celebration.

A special thank you to St. Croix Hospice and to the Sand Prairie St. Peter, Minnesota, staff for their loving care and support for Lawrence in his final days.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 5 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Constance "Connie" Haberman, 73, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, died Friday evening, February 3, 2017, at the Owatonna Hospital.

Constance Ann Ryan was born June 14, 1943, in Austin, Minnesota, the daughter of John and Norma (Hanson) Ryan. She attended school in Blooming Prairie graduating in 1961. On April 11, 1964, she was united in marriage to Robert Haberman at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie. The couple lived and farmed near Blooming Prairie where they raised three children. After the children were older, Connie began a banking career first as a teller at First National Bank, Peoples Savings and Loan and later Metropolitan Bank all in Blooming Prairie.

She retired from the First National Bank in Hope, Minnesota where she was a loan officer. Connie loved to sew and quilt and enjoyed traveling to Branson, Missouri and to local threshing shows. Connie especially loved her family and she made sure to attend any of the events or games her grandchildren were involved in. She was an active member of St. Columbanus Catholic Church and the CCW. She also was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary, serving in many offices including as President.

Survivors include her husband, Robert Haberman of rural Blooming Prairie; three children, Kelli (Jim) O’Connor, Joe Haberman and John (Katie Zipse) Haberman all of Blooming Prairie; five grandchildren, Katie (Sam) Wencl, Patrick (Krystal) O’Connor, Megan (Jake Lightly) O’Connor, Anna Haberman and Lacey Haberman; one great-grandson, Bennett Wencl; two brothers, Michael (Lois) Ryan of Montgomery and Joseph (Jill) Ryan of Maple Grove and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Norma Ryan.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017, at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota with Father William Kulas, officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Czech National Cemetery near Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 8, and for one hour prior to the service on Thursday at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie. The Worlein – Blooming Prairie Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 6 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Hannah J. Lees, 103, of Austin, Minnesota, died peacefully at Comforcare on Friday, February 3, 2017, surrounded by her loving family.

Hannah was born September 3, 1913, to Gilbert and Christina (Njos) Johnson. She grew up in Freeborn County and graduated from Austin High School. On March 18, 1939, Hannah Johnson married Ron Lees at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. They made their home in Austin where Hannah enjoyed being a homemaker where she could raise her family. A member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Hannah volunteered with her time and talents. Her hobbies included traveling, collecting arrowheads and being in the great outdoors. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Hannah will be greatly missed by all who knew her and loved her.

Survivors include her two sons: Bruce (Janet) Lees of Austin; Gary Lees of Talmoon, Minnesota; four grandchildren: Jay (Michelle) Lees of Lakeville, Minnesota; Robin Kleinpeter of Houston, Texas.; Mark Lees of Elk River, Minnesota; Sara (Michael) Wessel of Blaine, Minnesota; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, four grandchildren and grand-son-in-law, Randy Kleinpeter.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with Pastor Mark Niethammer officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. 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 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Pending Notice: Leonard A. Vogt, 92

Leonard A. Vogt, 92, of Rose Creek, died Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, at Comforcare Good Samaritan. Services are pending and arrangements will be announced later by Mayer Funeral Home.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 6 FEB 2017

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Obituary for Leonard Alfred Vogt

Leonard Alfred Vogt, age 92, of Rose Creek, died Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Comforcare Good Samaritan.

Leonard was born June 17, 1924 in Waseca to Joseph and Elizabeth Vogt. He attended school at Adams until the family moved to Augusta, Wisconsin. Leonard served in the Army as an MP in World War II. He was employed by the Hormel Company in Austin from 1948 to 1982 as a welder/mechanic.

Leonard was united in marriage to Evelyn Schmidt on June 25, 1949 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. He enjoyed woodworking. Some of the projects he was most proud of were building the vestment cabinets and bell wheel for St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek. Leonard loved passing on not only special projects he created but, also his woodworking talents to his children and grandchildren. Leonard was known in the community for helping his neighbors and doing welding for the farmers.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Evelyn, Rose Creek, Minnesota; 13 children, Diana (Dennis) Magnuson, Austin, Minnesota, Mary (Pete) Jacobsen, Austin, Minnesota, David (Lisa Olgren) Vogt, Rochester, Minnesota, Mark (Mary) Vogt, Nerstrand, Minnesota, Barbara (Brian) Kimm, Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, Beverly (Ronald) Frank, Lyle, Minnesota, Kathy (Steve) Halverson, Ellendale, Minnesota, Steven (Cynthia) Vogt, Sargeant, Minnesota, Joseph (Lori Woole) Vogt, Rose Creek, Minnesota, Peter (LeAnn) Vogt, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Anita (Greg) Farrell, Lyle, Minnesota, Dennis (Melony) Vogt, Caruthers, California, Ann (Eric) Kunz, Cold Spring, Minnesota; 49 grandchildren; 74 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; eight siblings: Julius, Ester, Earl, Betty, Viola “Ole”, Florence, Sister Joseen, Clem; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am on Thursday, February 9, 2017, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father Tom Loomis officiating. There will be a 4:45 pm rosary on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from then until 7 pm and also ½ hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in in St. Peter’s Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com

Source: Mayer Funeral Home, 6 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Darlene Evangelyn Helland

April 12, 1927 - February 06, 2017

Darlene E. Helland, 89 of Austin died Monday, February 6, 2017 at her apartment at the Primrose Assisted Living in Austin.

Darlene Evangelyn Helland was born April 12, 1927 at Harmony, Minnesota, the daughter of Erwin and Doris (Madson) Johnson. She graduated from Austin High School and the Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester. Darlene was married to Gordon N. Helland on June 22, 1947 at Rochester, Minnesota. They lived in Austin where Darlene was a nurse, working with Dr. Fred Bogott at the Austin Medical Clinic until her retirement at age 72. After her retirement Darlene did volunteer work with the Mayo Health Systems Hospice program in Austin.

Darlene was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church where she sang in the choir for many years. She enjoyed doing needlework, gardening and traveling, but particularly loved spending time at the lake cabin.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Gordon, sons, Bruce and Brian, son-in-law Tom Wood and two brothers, Neil and Eldon Johnson.

She is survived by two daughters and son-in-law, Barbara and Jerry Neubauer, Stewartville, Minnesota, Beth Wood, Rochester, Minnesota; eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; special friend, Hiram Jensen, Austin, Minnesota, and nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be held at St. Olaf Lutheran Church on Monday, February 13, 2017 at 1:30 PM with Todd Portinga, AiM officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Sunday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and at the church on Monday from 12:30 until the time of the service.

Source: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 9 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Charles D. Nyberg, 86, of Phoenix, Arizona, lost his battle with cancer and passed over peacefully early in the morning of February 1, 2017.

Charles was born August 6, 1930, in Henning, Minnesota, to his parents, Carl and Mayme Nyberg. At the age of 17 he joined the Air Force and served his country for six years.

After the military, he attended college and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor of science degree in law and then completed his juris doctor degree, graduating in 1959. He was hired by the Hormel Foods Corporation in Austin, Minnesota, as an attorney in their law department. He was employed by Hormel for 31 years and when he retired he was senior vice president/general counsel/secretary. He was a member of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. He was also a director of the Hormel Foundation and director for Jennie-O Foods Company. After retirement he continued as a director of the Hormel Foundation for another five years. Also during his career he was chairman, director, or president of numerous local, state and national organizations.

He was a dedicated and loving father and husband and would always find time for family. He worked very hard at whatever he set his mind to do. He always had a wonderful smile and a hug for everyone. He was passionate about politics and many times worked behind the scenes saying he didn’t care if he got credit as long as the job got done.

He was a devout Christian man. He would acknowledge that his success was a gift from his creator for which he was always thankful and grateful. Charles was a member of the Living Water Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Charles is survived by his wife, Mary, of 38 years; his children, Debi (Mike) Loud, Fernandina Beach, Florida, James (Julie) Nyberg, Rochester, Minnesota, Thomas (Jody) Nyberg, Waseca, Minnesota, Chris (Mary Ellen) Nyberg, Lawrence, Kansas, and Sarah (John) Nyberg, Cave Creek, Arizona; grandchildren, Jenica (Todd) Holmberg, Josiah Nyberg, Katlin Nyberg, and Thomas Nyberg, Rochester, Rachel Nyberg, St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Kristen and Jake Sanders, Lawrence, Kansas; and three great-grandsons, Xander, Jaxon and Ryker Homberg, Rochester.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017, at Living Water Lutheran Church, 9201 E. Happy Valley Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Memorials preferred to LWLC, Hospice of the Valley, or Sagewood Residents Foundation.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 8 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

H. Margery Frank, 89, of Dexter, Minnesota, died Sunday evening, Feb. 5, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Saint Marys Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

She was born Oct. 16, 1927, in Chicago to Edwin and Marie (Ruehle) Plummer. She attended Lutheran elementary schools and later graduated from Augustana School of Nursing, Chicago, in 1949. She practiced nursing in New York, Michigan and Illinois.

On Feb. 10, 1954, Margery married Herman H. Frank in Aurora, Illinois. They moved to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where Herman was in military service. They moved back to Illinois in 1956 to farm with his brother in Marengo, Illinois, until 1974 when they moved to Minnesota, where they now live. Margery was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin where she was in church choir and ladies aid. She also was a member of the Mower County Home Extension Group. She loved to do crosswords and liked to play piano and organ.

Survivors include sons, Ed (Cynthia) Frank and Ted (Kim) Frank, all of Dexter; Eileen (Watson) Anderson of Aberdeen, South Dakota; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Samuel, at birth; and a sister, Eunice Mengler.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin, Minnesota, with the Rev. John Schleicher officiating. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service on Friday. Interment is at Dexter Cemetery, Dexter. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 8 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Died February 8, 2017

Colleen Ann Hofmeister, age 70, of Grand Meadow, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, January 5, 2017, at the Meadows Assisted Living in Grand Meadow.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2017, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage, Iowa, with Father Raymond Burkle officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date at Visitation Cemetery in Stacyville, Iowa. Following services, there will be a time for lunch and fellowship at the Columbus Club, 1403 State Street, Osage, Iowa.

Colleen was born November 19, 1946, in Osage, the daughter of Vincent and Pauline (Kemmerick) Hofmeister. She attended Visitation School in Stacyville and then graduated from St. Marys School of Practical Nursing in Rochester, Minnesota. Colleen lived and worked in Rochester most of her life. In 2011, she moved to Grand Meadow. A special thank you to Meadows Assisted Living in Grand Meadow for Colleen’s care and making her a part of your family.

Colleen is survived by her mother, Pauline Hofmeister of Osage, Iowa; five sisters, Joanne Hackenmiller Popp of Osage, Iowa, Mary (John) Pfiefer of Hayfield, Minnnesota, Jane Blake of Bullhead City, Arizona, Donna (Russ) Welsh of Rochester, Minnesota, and Rita (Lee) Johnson of Clear Lake, Washington; one brother, Michael (Kris) Hofmeister of Rochester, Minnesota; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home 641-732-3706

Source: Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, IA

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

14 MAR 1939 - 5 FEB 2017

Pending Notice: Everett "Ez" Tabor, 77

Everett "Ez" Tabor, 77 of Austin died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017, at his home in Austin. Memorial service arrangements are pending. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 6 FEB 2017

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Everett "Ez" Tabor, 77, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, February 5, 2017, at his home in Austin.

He was born March 14, 1939, in Austin to Gene and Doloris (Iverson) Tabor. He attended school in Austin and graduated from Austin High School in 1956. He served in the U.S. Navy for three years in Hawaii. After returning home from the Navy he met and married Darlene Underdhal on June 1, 1963. They had two daughters, Dawn and Donna, and were married until her passing in 1980. He then met and married Sherry West and they combined their two families and spent the next 31 years together until Sherry passed away in 2012. Everett then married Connie Johnson of Austin. She survives.

"Ez" worked as a mechanic upon his return from the service and then worked for Weyerhauser as a forklift driver until he retired in 2001. He was a member of different clubs and organizations over the years. He stayed very active and was always on the go. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and taking trips cross country sightseeing. He also enjoyed going on camping trips and tubing down the river each year with his family and friends. He enjoyed spending time in his poo and playing games outdoors. He went on walks every day or rode his bicycle. He spent time at the Senior Citizen Center doing wood carvings. He loved seeing his grandkids and great-grandkids. He also enjoyed spending time on the internet.

When he wasn’t outside he spent time in his wood shop making a variety of things for his family. He also enjoyed baking and trying new recipes. He loved being a big kid at heart, having the latest gadget or new technology always coming up with new things.

He is survived by his wife, Connie, Austin; daughters, Dawn Tabor, Austin, Donna (Dwayne) Dietrich, Austin, Cathy (John) Bennett, Austin; son, Tom (Sonya) West, Georgia; brothers, Derwin (Diane) Tabor, Maple Plain, Minnesota, and Tim (Ann) Tabor of Mankato, Minnesota; sisters, Connie (Joe) Adler of Wisconsin, Bonnie (Neal) Nelson of Waseca, Minnesota, Cindy (Keith) Johnson of Waseca and Lori (Carl) Harwood of Rochester, Minnesota; 15 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Darlene Underdhal Tabor; wife, Sherry West Tabor; brother, Stephan Tabor, Austin; daughter Chris (Mark) Johnke; and one granddaughter.

The family invites friends and family to join them in remembering Ez from noon to 3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, at the Austin VFW.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 9 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Beryl Tufte, 92, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, February 2, 2017 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home. A Memorial Service will be held in the spring.

Clasen Jordan Funeral Home, 6 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Clifford Ralph Quast, age 84, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, passed away on February 6, 2017.

Cliff was born and raised in Austin, Minnesota. After graduating from Austin High School, he joined the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean War. Cliff worked for the IBM Corporation for 35 years as a field engineer.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Eleanor (Hergenrother) Quast; daughter, Susanne (Robert) Hamilton; son, Michael J. (Jodi) Quast; grandchildren, Andrew Quast, Alexander Rea, Alicia Quast and Kendalle Quast; his sister, Donna Smith; and several nieces and nephews. Cliff was preceded in death by his parents, Erwin P. Quast and Jessie King; sister, Jane Fetty; and brothers, William Smith and James Smith.

Cliff will be interred in a private ceremony at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 9 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Michael J. Langan, age 58 of Austin, Minnesota died Thursday, February 9, 2017 at his home. Michael James Langan was born February 10, 1958 in Austin, Minnesota the son of Thomas and Gloria (Lee) Langan. He attended school in Austin, graduating from Pacelli High School in 1977. After graduation, Mike joined the United States Army serving from 1980 to 1984.

After his discharge, he returned to Austin where he was united in marriage to Karlene Kay Bartholomew on August 10, 1985 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. While living in Austin, Mike worked on the kill floor for Quality Pork Processors for twenty-eight years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding his motorcycle. He was member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and was a proud supporter of the Geneva Cancer Benefit and the Paint the Town Pink Fishing Contest. Karlene died on August 22, 2007.

Mike is survived by his children, Shannon (Dustin) Fisher of Rose Creek and Dakota (Abby Prescott) Langan of Austin; his grandson, Maverick Fisher of Rose Creek; his mother, Gloria Langan of Austin; three sisters, Linda (Loren) Abernathy of Martin, South Dakota, Terri (Jeff) Studley of Austin and Chris (Gary) Westland of Glenville; one brother, Jeff (Lynda) Langan of Austin; mother-in-law, LaRena Bartholomew of Austin; sister-in-law, Kimberly (Robert Orr) Horgeshimer of Austin; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karlene Langan; father, Thomas Langan; two sisters, Gwen and Nancy Langan; father-in-law, Ivan Bartholomew and his grandparents, Patrick “Henry” (Ruby Estelle) Langan and Russel and Agnes Lee.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Friday, February 17, 2017, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church with Pastor Karen Behling, officiating. Interment will with Military Honors by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216 will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to the family.

Source: Worlein Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Paul F. Erickson, 59, of Yuma, Arizona, passed away on April 16, 2016.

Born February 13, 1956, he grew up in Austin, Minnesota, and graduated from Austin High School in 1974. He attended college at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, on a football scholarship and was named captain his senior year. He earned a bachelor of science degree in printing management, which was the focus of his lifelong career.

He joined RR Donnelley & Sons directly out of college and worked in various positions to learn his craft. He managed plants in Indiana, Illinois, South Carolina and North Carolina. He eventually became the vice president of manufacturing at the Reno, Nevada, plant. Later, he worked internationally as a vice president at Polestar in Sheffield, England. He was appointed by President George Bush to the Government Printing Office as the Deputy Public Printer in Washington, D.C. Paul became Acting Public Printer in 2010 after the resignation of Bob Tapella. He retired in 2012.

He was honored to receive the AHS Distinguished Alumi award in 2009.

Many of Paul’s family and friends would say that he lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed playing and watching all sports, but most especially golf, skiing, and football. Paul and his family regularly took vacations to Minnesota and met with more family while traveling the nation and the world. After retirement, Paul, and his wife, Misty, lived their dream of traveling in a motorhome across the United States. They settled in at Cocopah, near Yuma, Arizona. Paul will always be remembered for his kind heart, his laughter, his boisterous voice and his singing.

He was a devoted husband and father and his family always came first.

He is survived by his wife, Misty Campbell Erickson; his daughter, Cari Erickson Messerschmitt (Jamie); grandson, Felix; son, Clayton Erickson; in-laws, Robert and Judy Campbell; and siblings, nieces, nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Slater Erickson; his father, Palmer Erickson; and his step-mother, Norma Dalager Erickson.

He will continue to be in our hearts and souls forever.

A celebration of life ceremony was held January 28, 2017, in Yuma.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 12 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Alvin Arthur Schroeder, 76, of Monticello, Minnesota, passed away on January 31, 2017, in Mesa, Arizona.

Al was born on June 30, 1940, in Early, Iowa, to Arthur and Julia (Schrieber) Schroeder. He grew up in southern Minnesota, worked as electrician all of his life and owned Schroeder Electric in Austin, Minnesota, for many years. Al was united in marriage to Marlene Ohm on Dec. 28, 1957. He had made his home in Monticello since 2002. He enjoyed casinos, spending time at the Monticello Senior Citizens Center, and square dancing. He was also a part of a breakfast club which gathered every Saturday.

Al is survived by grandsons, Ryan (Wendy), and Jared; great-grandchildren, Lucas and Audrey; daughter-in-law, Judy Schroeder; sister, Marlene (Jerry) Morse; brothers, Dan, Ron and Art (Jadeen); brothers-in-law, Jim Smith, Orris (Marlene) Ohm, and Myron (Ann) Ohm; sister-in-law, Val Burns; fiancé Carol O’Hearn; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; Arthur and Julia; wife, Marlene; son, Brad; and sister, Diane.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16, at Zion Lutheran Church, 1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo, Minnesota. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment will be at 1 p.m. in Friday, February 17, at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery of Waltham, Minnesota.

Funeral arrangements are with the Peterson-Grimsmo Chapel of Monticello.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 12 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Gladys P. Holst, 92, of Austin, Minnesota, and formerly of Dexter, Minnesota, died Sunday, Feb. 12, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital – Saint Marys Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

Gladys Pearl Holst was born November 27, 1924, to James and Minnie (Belshan) Viktora near New London, Minnesota. She attended school in the Lyle, Minnesota; New London, Minnesota; and Myrtle, Minnesota, areas. She later worked at what is now Hormel Food Corp. in Austin for a short time.

On February 20, 1945, she was united in marriage to Raymond Holst at Queen of Angels Catholic parish in Austin, Minnesota. The couple moved by train to Oakland, California, where Raymond would recover from his war injuries. Raymond would make leather purses and wallets from his hospital bed and Gladys would sell them. After a year they moved back to Minnesota and began living on their farm near Dexter. The farm was purchased before World War II; this would be their home where they began farming and raising their family together. Gladys was a good farm wife; she helped with the chicken chores and sold eggs to the neighbors for many years.

Gladys also sold Avon products and was one of the original employees at Meadow Manor Nursing Home, where she worked for five years. Gladys was also a waitress at Nickerson Farms for 10 years, receiving a prized lamp for selling the most orange juice. She then went to work as a janitor for the Grand Meadow School. After 15 years and at the age of 75 she retired due to a hip problem. Gladys continued to live on the farm until 2010 when she moved to The Cedars in Austin where she met a new group of friends.

She enjoyed working, playing cards, TV soaps, calling bingo, dancing exercise sessions, and socializing with family and friends. Happy Hour was her favorite. She always had a brandy close by to share with anyone who was willing. Gladys and Ray also enjoyed traveling around the country with Donnie and Bonnie in later years. She will be missed especially for her Christmas Eve celebrations at her home. Blessed be her memory.

She is survived by her children, Vicky (Dennis) Stenberg of Stewartville, Minnesota, Glenn (Colette) Holst of Lanesboro, Minnesota, Leon (Shirley) Holst of Dexter, Minnesota, and Evan (LuAnn) Holst of Dexter, Minnesota; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; a sister, Louise Hahn of Spring Valley, Minnesota; three brothers, Donald (Bonnie) Victora of Albert Lea, Minnesota, Dale Viktora of Hollandale, Minnesota, and Melvin Viktora of Hillsborro, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray in 1995; a grandson, Jeffery in 1968; a granddaughter, Lisa in 1990; three brothers, Wesley, Kenneth and David; and two sisters, Lillian and Rosella.

Funeral services for Gladys P. Holst will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, at Grand Meadow Lutheran Church with Pastor Beth Krolak officiating. Burial will be in the Grand Meadow Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday Feb. 16, 2017, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow and will continue for one hour at the church.

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 14 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary for Bradley Lowell Mechaelsen

Bradley L. Mechaelsen, age 55, of Austin, died Sunday, February 12, 2017, at his home.

A Memorial Service will be held 11 am on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at Crane Community Chapel with Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. The family will greet friends at a luncheon following the service. Interment will be in Graceland Cemetery in Webster City, Iowa at a later date.

Source: Mayer Funeral Home

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Bradley Lowell Mechaelsen, 55

Bradley Lowell Mechaelsen, 55, of Austin, Minnesota, died peacefully on Sunday, February 12, 2017, at his home following a year-long battle with cancer.

Brad was born August 4, 1961, in Webster City, Iowa, to Lowell and Patricia (Nelson) Mechaelsen. He graduated from Webster City High School. On Nov. 13, 2014, he was united in marriage to Karen Marie Moe at Crane Community Chapel in Austin. Brad and Karen loved their church.

Brad worked at Quality Pork for eight years, from 1991 to 1999. He enjoyed playing pool, darts and he loved spending time with his dog, Buddy.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Mechaelsen, Austin; two daughters, Jessica McGilligan (Dustin Ewing), Des Moines, Iowa, and Sierra Riley, Redwood Falls, Minnesota; a granddaughter, Emmersyn, Des Moines; his mother, Patricia Mechaelsen, Webster City; his brother, Ben Mechaelsen, Webster City; his mother-in-law, Barb McDermott, Oshkosh, Wisconsin; and aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Nicole Mechaelsen; his father, Lowell Mechaelsen; and his beloved dog, Buddy.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at Crane Community Chapel with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. The family will greet friends at a luncheon following the service. Interment will be in Graceland Cemetery in Webster City at a later date.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com

Source: Austin Daily Herald, 15 FEB 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb