Obituary

Nicholas Hummel, Jr., age 89 of Austin, Minnesota died Monday, October 9, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

Nicholas “Nick” was born on May 29, 1928 in Austin, Minnesota, to Nicholas and Selma (Hendrickson) Hummel, Sr. His grandparents came to America from Bavaria, Germany and homesteaded in LeRoy, Minnesota. Nick was raised in Austin, Minnesota and attended Austin Public Schools. As a young man he began his long career with Hormel Foods. On July 15, 1950 he was united in marriage to Sarah “Sally” Henderson. They raised their family and resided in Austin their entire married life.

Nick retired from Hormel Foods after 42 years of dedicated service. He was an avid outdoorsman, especially trapping, fishing and hunting. He learned his love of trapping from his grandparents who brought that knowledge with them from Germany, and continued to learn those skills from his father. Nick instilled that same passion for the outdoors in his grandchildren.

Nick and his wife Sally were longtime members of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin, and were part of the original congregation that established the church in Austin.

He is survived by his sons Stephen Hummel of Austin, Mark Hummel of Inver Grove Heights; daughters Debbie (Roy) Alstad of Minneapolis, Cindy (David) Ostrander of Austin, Nancy (Charles) Cook of Austin; by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother Donald (Patricia) Hummel of Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Sarah “Sally” on November 9, 1998; brother Richard Hummel.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor James Groleau officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Friday, October 13th at Worlein Funeral Home and will continue for one hour prior to services on Saturday afternoon at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

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Mrs. Eilert Moehlman
        Dies Sunday Morning
              After Sudden Illness

Death claimed Mrs. Eilert Moehlman, 201 South St. Paul Street, at 2:40 yesterday morning. Word of her sudden passing came as a great shock to her many Austin friends.

Mrs. Moehlman was preparing supper Friday evening at 5:30 when she was taken suddenly ill and called to her husband to come quick. When he reached her side she complained of a pain in her head and before she could be put to bed she became unconcious. She never regained conciousness. Friday, she spent the afternoon making sick calls, as she made it a point to go about with her cheery smile trying to comfort those who were ill.

Born in Iowa

Emma Amelia Mehring was born in Calhoun county, Iowa, near Monson, on May 27, 1875, and was the oldest of 14 children. Her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Mehring, Sr., and one sister, Helen preceded her in death. She was married to Eilert Moehlman, March 2, 1899. For two years after their marriage they lived on a farm near Pomroy, Iowa. They then moved to a farm near Lakefield where they lived until they came to Austin on the 16th of October, 1917.

To this union were born six children, all of whom were at their mother's beside with their father when the end came. The children are: Mrs. Frank W. Nehring, Fred, Walter, Mrs. Wm. Cummings, Esther and Arthur. There is also one grandson, Duane Cummings. A sister, Mrs. Bertha Pohl was also at the bedside.

Brothers and sisters as follows are expected to attend the funeral services: Henry Mehring, Albert Mehring, William Mehring, Walter Mehring, Mrs. John Carsten, all of Monson, Iowa, Mrs. Geo. Hottman of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Mrs. Arthur Hottman of Dayur, Minnesota, Mrs. C. H. Richardson of Chicago, and Fred Mehring of Chester, Iowa. A brother, Louis of Los Angeles will be unable to attend the services.

Member Lutheran Church

Mrs. Moehlman was a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church and a member of the ladies' aid society and social circle. She was always active in her church work and won many friends by her sunny disposition. She was a most kind and loving mother and wife and was highly respected by everyone whom she numbered as acquaintances.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 from the house and 2 o'clock from St. Johns Lutheran church, with Rev. W. F. Milbrath officiating. Burial will be made in Oakwood cemetery.

SOURCE: Austin Herald, Mon. 4-29-1929, pg. 5, col. 3
Credit: Mark Ashley

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

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Olson, 76, former Herald
        Employe, died at St. Olaf

Bennie C. Olson, 76, former long-time employe at the Austin Daily Herald, died Friday afternoon at St. Olaf Hospital.

Olson and his wife, Alice live at 907 13th Ave. NE.

Olson retired from the Herald in February 1963 after 46 years of service, as a make-up man in the mechanical department.

He started at the Herald in 1917 when newspapering was in another era and the job turned out to be a career. It was an interesting career for Olson, who went quietly about his job, learning with experience to excel at it and gained the respect of his co-workers.

Besides his newspaper work, Bennie was an avid collector of records and match book covers. He liked the down-to-earth type of music such as barber shop singing and vocalizing.

Olson is survived by his wife Alice, four step-sons: Loren Kester, Austin, Lloyd Kester, Atlanta, Ga., Larry Kester, Savanah, Ga., and Larry Bushway, Minneapolis; one step-daughter, Mrs. Frank (Verleen) Telay. Barnum, Minn; four granddaughters; three brothers: Lester Olson. Bacus, Minn., Harold Olson, St. Paul, and Olaf Olson, New Orleans, La.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the church of Christ, Rev. David Harmon officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Jordan Mortuary from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. There will be no reviewal at the church.

Austin Herald, Sat 7-20-1974, pg, 2, col. 3 & 4
Credit: Mark Ashley

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Funeral Notice:

Olson -- Funeral services for Bennie C. Olson, 907 13th Ave. NE, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Church of Christ, Rev. David Harmon officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may call at the Jordan Mortuary from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. There will be n o reviewal at the church. The family prefers memorials.

Austin Herald, Sat. 7-20-1974, pg. 2, col. 1
Credit: Mark Ashley

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

November 30, 1927 - October 11, 2017

Vern Ardel Iverson, 89 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away at his home Wednesday morning, October 11, 2017, surrounded by family after a lengthy illness.

Vern was born November 30, 1927 in New Richland, Minnesota to Ernest and Helen (Peterson) Iverson. He was the seventh of eight children. He attended school until the 8th grade and when he turned 16, he started working at Geo. A. Hormel.

At the age of 17, he married the love of his life, Betty Arens at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa on December 23, 1944. He worked at Hormel for 37 years. The last 15 years working on the same line with Betty in the Dry Sausage Dept.

Verns love of the outdoors; hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family was the highlight of his life. He was a true sportsman and passed on his skills to his sons and grandsons. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Chester, Harvey and Gene; sisters, Doris and Dorothy; and his son, David Iverson in 2010.

Vern is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 73 years, Betty Iverson, Austin, MN; his sons, Stan (Debi) Iverson, Austin, MN, and Larry (Kathy) Iverson, Austin, MN; daughter-in-law, Marilynn “Pedie” Iverson (Rick Andersen), Austin, MN; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; sisters, Verdell Clark, Austin, MN and Ruth Olson, Austin, MN; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, October 16th at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Reverend David Simerson officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be at the mortuary on Monday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home
Also see Austin Daily Herald, 14 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Bernice Genevieve Rabine, 98, of Sun City West, Arizona, formerly of Dexter, Minnesota, and Rochester, Minnesota, died Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center after a short illness.

Bernice was born to Clarence and Fern (Keller) Cooper on July 10, 1919, in Indian Valley Township, Tama County, Iowa. She attended Dexter Grade School and graduated from Elkton High School. On Dec 1, 1940, she married Melvin Rabine at her parents’ home in Dexter. Bernice worked as a postal clerk in Dexter, but is best known for helping her daughters and grandchildren with all kinds of things. She was always available.

Everyday she was dressed up — we called her the princess; even in August of this year she came with strappy low-heel sandals that most of us could not maneuver in. She had hip surgery in April 2017 and we had to take away her trendy slacks and get her to wear some elastic, less tight-fitting slacks. Even the nurses talked about her dressed-up look. She was known for her great cooking and made buckets of her famous chicken salad for a granddaughter’s wedding. Even her dentist loved her chicken salad. You could always find a cookie or brownie in her kitchen or freezer. People lined up for her rhubarb torte. She taught us how to make freezer jam before she died and we can do it, but we aren’t so sure about the torte or chicken salad. Bernice and Mel moved to Arizona in 2011. Mel died that same year. Bernice is survived by her daughters, Marilyn (Gary) Smith of Rochester, and Lynette (Curt) Utpadel of Sun City West; five grandchildren, Mike (Jill) Smith, Heidi (Michael) Dieter, Mishawn (Dave) Kalkman, Jessica (Shane) Hudella, and Alysia (Nick) Zarbo; two stepgrandchildren, Curtis (Debra) Utpadel Jr., and Phillip (Samantha) Utpadel; 18 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. Four of her eight siblings are alive, Dale (Bev) Cooper, Letty Budahn, Terry (Twilly) Cooper, and Daryle (Mary Ann) Cooper. A precious granddaughter, Tanya Howe, preceded her in death as well as four siblings, Evelyn (Dean) Robinson, Wayne and Lyall Cooper, and Venita Ballinger. The memorial service will be at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017, at Dexter United Methodist Church with Pastor Jon Marburger and the Rev. Dr. Kenneth L. Beale Jr., Senior Chaplain, Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel officiating. Burial will be in the Dexter Cemetery. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church. Lunch at the church will follow the service. The family will give memorials to United Heroes League. This organization provides sports equipment and benefits to children of military personnel or please give to the organization of your choice. Mahn Family Funeral Home – Rochester Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign the online guest book atwww.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 14 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

U.S. VETERAN

Frank Russell Mayzlik, 72, of Hayfield, Minnesota, passed away on October 10, 2017, at Our House in Austin, Minnesota, surrounded by family.

Frank was born on April 14, 1945, the son of Russell and Ruth (Thompson) Mayzlik in Austin. Frank graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1963, attended Austin Junior College for two years, and later graduated from Mankato State College with an accounting degree. Frank served in the U.S. Marines from 1966-1968, and is a Vietnam veteran. He was honorably discharged in 1972 with an E5 Sergeant rank. Frank was united in marriage to Cheryl Alwes in 1969, and later divorced. Frank was an accountant for Tonka Toys in Mound, Minnesota.

He moved to Hayfield in 1975, and worked as an accountant for Thoen Brothers Elevator. Frank worked as a Realtor for Merrill Lynch and Coldwell Banker Burnet Realty in Rochester, Minnesota for 22 years.

Frank had a passion for muscle cars. He also enjoyed going to the movies, riding motorcycle, camping, hiking, traveling and spending time with his family.

Frank is survived by his children, Yvette (Aaron) Louks, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Michele Mayzlik, Brownsdale, Minnesota, and Jesse (Michelle) Mayzlik, Rochester, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Gabrielle, Vanessa, and Sophia (Louks),Carter (Ziegler), Camden, and Callan (Mayzlik); two sisters, Judy Schwartz, Rose Creek, Minnesota, and Susan (Glen) Wynia, Hohenwald, Tennesee; three brothers, Ronald (Penny) Mayzlik; John (Sandra) Mayzlik, and Jerry (Connie) Mayzlik, all of Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 501 Second St. NW in Hayfield, and one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 104 First St. SE in Hayfield, with the Rev. Paul Hauschild officiating.

Interment will be in Lansing Cemetery in Lansing, Minnesota, with military honors by the Hayfield American Legion Rothie Post 330.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 14 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Richard “Dick” Grover, 77, of Harmony, Minnesota, died Thursday, October 5, 2017, at the Gundersen Harmony Care Center in Harmony.

Dick was born September 5, 1940, in Austin, Minnesota, to Clare and Gae (Greenlee) Grover. He married Linda Peterson on Oct. 1, 1975, in St. Croix County, Wisconsin. Dick worked as a computer technician at Mayo Clinic, retiring in 2010. Dick was a golf enthusiast and a member of the Harmony Golf Club. He also enjoyed fishing at Osakis Lake, near Alexandria, Minnesota.

Dick is survived by one daughter, Amy (Matthew) Benson; three grandchildren, Spencer, Mercedes and Sterling; one great-grandson, Killian; and six siblings, Fred Grover of Harmony, Bill (Mary) Grover of Adams, Minnesota, Linda (Mike) Burzinski of Austin, Shirley Brown of Austin, Deb Roberts of Austin and Joy Metz of Austin. Dick was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Linda in 2016; and five siblings, Jeanne Fox, Phyllis Hall, Sharon Grover, Kathy Grover and a sister who died in infancy.

A visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 20, at the Lindstrom Funeral Home in Harmony.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 14 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Connie G. Bonnes, 62, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away October 12, 2017, at her home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with stomach cancer.

Connie Gillette Nelson was born on December 4, 1954, in Austin, Minnesota, to Roland and Dorothy (Meyers) Nelson.

Connie spent her childhood in Lansing, Minnesota, and graduated from Austin High School. On September 16, 1995, she married Terry Bonnes at her parent’s ranch in Lansing. Connie provided daycare out of her home for 40 years. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and daycare kids. She enjoyed traveling and riding motorcycle with Terry. Christmas was Connie’s favorite time of year and she always shared her love of the holiday with everyone.

Survivors include her husband, Terry Bonnes of Rochester; children, Dan (Larisa) Severson of Crosby, Minnesota, Amy (Jason) Boche of Rosemount, Minnesota and Shelly (Mike) Carroll of Woodbury, Minnesota; grandchildren, Griffin, Allison, Joshua, Madison, Emily, Quinn, Teagan and honorary grandchild, Grace; mother, Dorothy Nelson of Apple Valley, Minnesota (formerly of Austin); and sisters, Phyllis (Dick) Trabert of Eagan, Minnesota, and Deloris (Mike) Harber of Austin.

She was preceded in death by her father, Roland Nelson; sister, Cheryl Williams; and niece, Michelle Williams.

A memorial service for Connie will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes and also one hour prior to the service on Monday. Interment will be at the Hayfield (Minnesota) Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to donor’s choice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 14 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Iona Huff, 88, of Grinnell, Iowa, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2017, at the Mayflower Health Center in Grinnell. Iona Mae Huff, daughter of George and Emma Olson Jahr, was born August 29, 1929, in Galena, Illinois. She was a 1947 graduate of Lyle High School in Lyle, Minnesota. Iona was united in marriage to Roger Alan Huff, Sept. 24, 1949, in Lyle. Iona and Roger made their home in Austin, where Roger worked at Hormel Meat Packing Company, and Iona was a homemaker. After her children were older, Iona went to work at the clerk of court’s office at the Mower County Courthouse. In 1980, Roger retired from Hormel, and he and Iona moved to Helena, Montana; there she worked for AAA Storage as an office manager, until her retirement in 1999. Roger passed away June 9, 2006.

In September 2008, she moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, to be near her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. While in Oskaloosa, she lived in the Shady Lodge Retirement Community and enjoyed its many social activities. She attended the Assembly of God Church and was active in Bible study and prayer groups. In 2010, she moved to her daughter and son-in-law, Barb and Jack’s home in Lynnville, Iowa, and, in 2014, she moved to the Mayflower Health Center in Grinnell.

Her family includes three daughters and their husbands: Barbara and Jack Padgett of Lynnville, Deborah and Lynn Johnson of Austin, and Janet and Steve Dold of Helena; seven grandchildren and their spouses, Jonathan (Julie) Lee, Cory (Sara) Lee, Elizabeth (Nathan) McDanel, Emily Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, Lydia Dold and Joshua (Kellie) Dold; 10 great-grandchildren; and dear friends.

Besides her parents and her husband, Iona was preceded in death by a daughter, Laurie Huff; a sister, Thelma Nockels; and six brothers: Omar, Orvis, Glaydon, Noren, Arthur, and Vernon Jahr.

As was her wish, her body has been cremated, and no public services will be held.

Langkamp Funeral Chapel & Crematory in Oskaloosa is handling the arrangements. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting gvlfuneralchapel.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 13 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Lois Diane Breaker (nee Hanson), 78, of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on October 9, 2017, at St. Luke’s Hospital.

She was born on June 13, 1939, in Austin, Minnesota, to A. Rozwell and Gladys (nee Benson) Hanson. Lois grew up on the family farm, and attended the local one-room country schoolhouse until eighth grade. She graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1957, then attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, for two years where she met Robert Breaker in religion class. Lois worked at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church in Minneapolis for a year, until their marriage on Sept. 24, 1960, at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church, in Austin.

They moved to Milwaukee, where Bob was attending business school, then to Racine in 1965 when Bob accepted a position with SC Johnson. Lois went back to work in 1977 as a part-time teller at the JI Case (now Landmark) Credit Union; she worked there for over 30 years, retiring in 2009 as the comptroller.

Lois and Bob were charter members of St. Andrew Lutheran Church. Lois enjoyed traveling, sewing, cross-stitch, and was an avid quilter after retirement. One of Lois’ greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren. She loved going on outings and having them over to her house for the day – homemade bread and Kraft Mac n’ Cheese was always plentiful, in addition to all her homemade meals. This included sledding at Shoop Park, going to the Racine Library and Zoo, riding the train to Chicago and spending the day sightseeing. Lois also enjoyed attending all of their concerts and sport events. She will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; children, Burnell (Susan) Breaker of Racine and Melanie (Dale) Buechler of Platteville, Wisconsin; grandsons Andy and Ryan Breaker, and Tim Buechler; brother, Burnell (Coleen) Hanson; sister Nancy (Arnold) Ulland; and nieces and nephews.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; and a grandson, Christopher.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, at United Lutheran Church, 3825 Erie Street, Racine, WI 53402. Funeral services will follow, officiated by Pastor John Bischoff. Private interment will be at West Lawn Memorial Park.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of the St. Luke’s ICU team, Dr. Bob and the neuro-oncology unit, and Dr. Kittel with radiation therapy, for their wonderful care of Lois over the past few months.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the United Lutheran Church are appreciated.

Miller-Reesman, Kasuboski, Haas, & Dahl Funeral Home, 620 15th Ave., Union Grove, WI 53182, ph. 262-878-2500.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 13 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Janet Kay Severson, 68, of Mankato, Minnesota, died Monday, October 16, 2017, at Willow Brook Senior Cooperative.

Janet was born on September 29, 1949, to Earl and Harriet (Knutson) Weness in Austin, Minnesota. She was a graduate of Adams High School in Adams, Minnesota, and received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota. She was united in marriage to Jeffrey Severson on May 27, 1972.

Janet was a teacher in Evansville, Minnesota, Kasson-Mantorville, in Kasson, Minnesota, and Red Wing, Minnesota, from 1971 until 1974. In 1989, she became a meeting planner for Matrix Meetings. Janet retired in 2011. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato and a longtime past member of Hosanna Lutheran Church in Rochester. Janet was a volunteer with Stephen Ministry in Rochester, Minnesota. She enjoyed volunteering, traveling, boating, camping, sewing and knitting, cooking, music, and especially spending time with family and friends.

Janet is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Severson of Mankato; two sons, Jared (Naty) Severson of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, and Jesse (Monique) Severson of Mankato; five grandchildren, Aaron, Zach, Hannah, Landen, and Taryn; two brothers, Erlin (Jean) Weness of Worthington, Minnesota, and Roger (Jan) Weness of Adams; also nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Mankato Mortuary handled the arrangements. Memorials may be given to Cure PSP (www.psp.org) or Grace Lutheran Church.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 17 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

James Roy Schofield, 64, died while on an afternoon stroll on Friday, October 6, 2017, in Weslaco, Texas.

Jim was born on August 16, 1953, in Spring Green, Wisconsin, to Gene C. and Margaret (Collies) Schofield. He grew up in Spring Green and graduated from high school in Austin, Minnesota, in 1971. At Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, Jim earned the bachelor’s degree, with a major in physics, in 1976. He was a member of the nation’s most prestigious honor society, Phi Beta Kappa.

Jim spent his career in San Francisco as a highly respected computer programmer/analyst. Among his employers were Rand Information Systems, IBM, the University of California Berkeley, Pacific Bell, and AT&T. In 1989 IBM awarded Jim its Outstanding Technical Achievement Award. He retired in 2010 and had lived since then in Texas.

Jim is survived by his sisters, Janet Schofield of Mercedes, Texas, and Barbara (Jim) Patterson of Anchorage, Alaska; his nieces and nephews, Matt (Cori) Patterson, Brian (Ashley) Patterson, Roslan (Kristin) Schofield, Aslinda (Reza) Daneshmand, and Rosly Schofield; and his grandnieces and grandnephews, Lela Patterson, and Martin and Sofia Schofield.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene Schofield and Margaret Schofield Tverberg.

Jim had an eclectic taste in music, from Merle Haggard to Taj Mahal and Junior Brown. He shaped his travel around concerts, music festivals, and poker games. He loved the poetry of Charles Bukowski, his Rio cowskin boots, and his maroon Corvette. Loyal and generous to family and friends, skeptical about the influence of computers on society and human relations, well-read, energetic in conversation, and possessed of a distinctive sense of humor, he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation has occurred. Burial will be private. Memorials are preferred to St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, Montana 59004 (Donor Toll Free Number 866-753-5496).

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 17 OCT 2017
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 18 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Phyllis Marion Helgeson, 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday afternoon, October 16, 2017, at the Primrose Retirement Community in Austin.

Phyllis Marion Tront was born July 19, 1923, in Rainy River, Ontario, Canada, the daughter of Alex and Tekla (Hrynkiw) Tront. She attended high school in Fort Frances, Ontario, Canada, and nurse’s training at Port Arthur General Hospital in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. After completing her education, Phyllis worked as a registered nurse at Trinity Hospital in Baudette, Minnesota, retiring in 1982. She married Findell O’Donald Helgeson on July 15, 1945, in Fort Frances, Ontario, Canada. They made their home in Portal and Dunseith, North Dakota, and in Baudette and International Falls, Minnesota.

After their retirements in 1982, they moved to Austin in 1991. Phyllis enjoyed playing bridge, knitting, going to garage sales, and spending time with her family. She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Austin. Mr. Helgeson died on Sept. 16, 2010.

Survivors include two sons, Dean (Lynn) Helgeson of Bemidji, Minnesota and Carlan (Jill) Helgeson of Spring Hill, Florida; a daughter, Signe (Steven) Rizzi of Austin; eight grandchildren, Signe (Ray) Damdar, Caleb Helgeson, Rachel (Brandon) Ruffridge, and Brittina (Jared) Guzik; Kyle (Cari) Rizzi, Katelyn (Jason) Branstrom, Steven Rizzi; Kim (Jon) Stolski; ten great-grandchildren, Annika and Malik Damdar; Lila, Henry and Rosalie Rizzi; Annie Branstrom, Raeani Guzik, and Will, Lauren and Joe Stolski; a sister, Nettie Dolph of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Findell Helgeson; her parents, Alex and Tekla Tront; a daughter-in-law, Mary Helgeson; grandsons, Alec, Matthew and Marcus Helgeson; a sister, Stella Gratton; and a brother, Walter Tront.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21, 2017, at the First Congregational Church in Austin with Revs. Shari Mason and Carlan Helgeson officiating. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Memorials preferred to First Congregational Church, Mayo Hospice or donor’s choice. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 18 OCT 2017

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Funeral notice: Phyllis Marion Helgeson, 94

Phyllis Marion Helgeson, 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday afternoon, Oct. 16, 2017, at the Primrose Retirement Community in Austin.

Service: Memorial service at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at the First Congregational Church in Austin with the Revs. Shari Mason and Carlan Helgeson, officiating.

Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 20 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

FUNERAL NOTICE:

Mildred “Millie” E. Plantikow, 97, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at Fairview Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Service: 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Rev. Susan Rector Li officiating.

Reviewal: 10 to 11 a.m., at the church

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery

Funeral home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary

Memorials: Preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 18 OCT 2017

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Mildred E. “Millie” Plantikow, 97, passed away Oct. 17, 2017, at Fairview Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, Minnesota. She had lived with dementia for many years and died of congestive heart failure.

Born in Austin, Minnesota on April 18, 1920, to Anton and Selma (Rolf) Swenson, Millie was always fond of comparing her birthday to the midnight ride of Paul Revere, which happened on that day in 1775. Every year on her birthday, she would quote the Longfellow poem: “On the 18th of April in ’75, hardly a man is now alive who remembers that famous day and year of the midnight ride of Paul Revere.” An only child, she lived within a block of her first home her entire life until a broken hip put her in a nursing home in 2013.

Millie was an Austin High School graduate who started her career in the mail room of the George A. Hormel Company and became executive secretary to Jay C. Hormel. She always said she learned a lot about people during that time. Those who treated her badly as a mail clerk soon became very nice to her as the president’s secretary. Millie married John Plantikow in August 1943 and spent a short time with him in Louisiana during World War II. After the war, back in Austin, she became secretary to the owner of the Ford Garage. She quit work to raise two daughters.

Intensely proud of her family, she loved to participate in family get-togethers, and her grandchildren loved to have “Grandma Millie” in the audience. She attended many band, choir, drumline and dance performances, as well as hockey, baseball and football games. She also enjoyed watching two of her grandsons skateboard. Millie was very artistic and created some beautiful rosemaling in her younger days. She moved into needlework, especially counted cross-stitch and quilting. She made quilts for her daughters and every grandchild.

In her later years, when dementia robbed her of many memories, she enjoyed Word Search puzzles, finishing a puzzle book a week while watching game shows on TV. But the key to Millie’s life was her faith. She attended St. Olaf Lutheran Church her entire life. She was active in circles, organized the Swedish import section of the annual Scandinavian Bazaar for many years, and helped to produce two church cookbooks.

She was coming home from Bible study when she fell and broke her hip in January 2013. Despite the loss of independence that created, she kept her positive attitude and a love for everyone around her.

She is survived by two daughters, Susan (David) Haberle and Karen (Kirk) Duholm; four grandchildren, Nicholas (Anna) Haberle, Benjamin Haberle, Stephen Duholm and Laura Duholm; two great-granddaughters, Lucy and Maggie Haberle; and niece, Mary (Tarry) Hall. Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John, in 1992; and nephew, David Plantikow.

A short service of joy will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Susan Rector Li officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. There will be reviewal at the church from 10-11 a.m.

Memorials are preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 19 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Gayle Andrew Paulson, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, October 18, 2017, peacefully at his home surround by family.

He was born August 25, 1933, in Austin, to Alfred and Emma (Thorsness) Paulson. Gayle graduated from Austin High School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-1956 and was a Korean War veteran. He served in the Korean Conflict abroad a heavy cruiser, the USS Des Moines. Gayle married Marlene on June 15, 1957. They celebrated their 60th anniversary this summer. He worked at Wilson Foods from 1951-1968 and Hormel Foods from 1968-1996.

Gayle has been a lifelong member of St. Olaf Church Lutheran Church. He was an usher and enjoyed helping in the kitchen, making lefse and doughnuts. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and carving. He and his family camped and fished on Mille Lacs Lake for over 50 years. His family and friends meant the whole world to him. We were all truly blessed to call him husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, Fraternal Order of Eagles and Austin Carving Club.

Survivors are his wife, Marlene K. (Anderson) Paulson, Austin; daughter and husband, Sheryl and David Greening, Eden Prairie, Minnesota; son and friend, Mark Paulson and Karen Salm, Green Bay, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Christine (Greening) and Michael Nelson, Golden Valley, Minnesota, Kevin Greening and fiancé Sarah Dewitt, Minneapolis, Noah Paulson, Green Bay; twin brother, Dayle Paulson, Red Wing, Minnesota; and other family members and many friends. He was preceded in death by parents, Alfred and Emma (Thorsness) Paulson; and sisters, Jeanette (Paulson) Sweezey, and infant sister Aryls Paulson.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga, AIM, officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Military honors by members of American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216 will follow the service. Memorials are preferred to the St. Olaf Lutheran Church Building Fund or donors preference. 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 website, 19 OCT 2017

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Funeral notice: Gayle Andrew Paulson, 84

Gayle Andrew Paulson, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, Oct. 18, peacefully at his home surrounded by family.

Service: 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga, AIM, officiating. Military honors by members of American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216 will follow.

Visitation: 9:30-11 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

Memorials: Preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church Building Fund or donors preference.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 20 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Melvin Duane Emery, age 68 of Waseca, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, October 16, 2017, at his home in Waseca. He was born November 19, 1948 in Austin the son of Victor and Viola (Peterson) Emery. He graduated from Hayfield, Minnesota High School in 1967. Following graduation, Melvin served with the United States Army in Germany.

He returned to Minnesota where he was united in marriage to Karen Mullins on April 17, 1982 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. The couple made their home in North St. Paul, Minnesota where Melvin worked as an electronic technician for several companies including Capital Electronics and later Seagate Electronics. The couple later divorced. Melvin retired in the early 1990’s due to health concerns. He enjoyed being out in nature and loved to care for many house plants he raised. For the past several years, Melvin made his home in Waseca, Minnesota.

Survivors include his children, Tiffany Emery, Greggory (Valerie) Emery and Justin (Amy Bruender) Kamp, a grandson, Jacob Miller all of Austin; a brother, Victor (Beverly) Emery of Waseca; a sister, Victoria Gammey of Mio, Michigan; two nephews and four nieces; his former wife, Karen Emery of Austin and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Velma Emery

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Dale Christiansen officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery with military honors by members of American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 20 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary

Bradly Wayde Langan, age 58 of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, died Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus, surrounded by his family. Brad was born May 13, 1959 in Austin, Minnesota to Robert and Barbara (Hill) Langan. He spent most of his life residing in Blooming Prairie, although he was well travelled. He married the love of his life, Cheryl Ann Rogers of San Diego, California on January 30, 1979, and they were blessed with three children. Brad had completed his welding training from Riverland College in Austin, and for many years owned and operated Independent Welding in Austin. Brad was a funny, loving, free spirited man who had many talents. His greatest joys in life were his nine grandchildren, whom he filled with so much love and happiness. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding his Harley.

He is survived by his wife Cheryl of Blooming Prairie; three children Kellie Ann (Ollie) Schmidt of Austin, David (Amber) Langan of Medford, and Sarah Langan of Blooming Prairie; sisters Marcia (John) Tobar of Austin, Maureen (Ed) Frein of Battle Creek, MI, Margie (Lynn) Reich of Apple Valley, Michelle Holtorf of Austin; brother Bobby Langan of Austin; many nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Brad was preceded in death by his father Robert Langan and his sister Mary Beth Langan.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, with Reverend Heidi Heimgartner officiating. Visitation will be held on Saturday afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 20 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

FUNERAL NOTICE:

Dale Armand Hanson, age 83, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, died Thursday, October 19, 2017 at the Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie with Reverend Jeff Sandgren and Reverend Heidi Heimgartner officiating.

Interment will follow in the Red Oak Grove Cemetery in rural Austin. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Monday, October 23, 2017 at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home, and will continue on Tuesday morning for one hour prior to services, at church.

Memorials in Dale’s memory may be directed to the Blooming Prairie Serviceman’s Club, First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home. Further information, and Condolences expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home, 10/20/2017

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Dale Armand Hanson, 83, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017, at the Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Dale was born on May 10, 1934, at a family farm in Newry Township, near Blooming Prairie to Aldine and Aura (Berg) Hanson. He attended a one-room country elementary school, and graduated from Blooming Prairie High School.

Dale was a veteran of the Korean War in the United States Army, serving as a cryptologist in Japan with the National Security Unit. Following his honorable service, he returned home and attended Austin Junior College before earning his undergraduate degree from Mankato State University. He later attended graduate school at both St. Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona and Michigan State University in East Lansing. On Sept. 5, 1959, Dale married Austra Giga in Owatonna.

Dale enjoyed a lifelong career in the computer industry, starting as a programmer with Remington Rand Univac, before joining IBM in 1962, working in Rochester, Minnesota; Lansing, Michigan; Milan, Italy; Palo Alto, California; and Fort Worth, Texas. He retired in 1992 and the Hansons moved back to Blooming Prairie that same year, establishing a branch of the Käthe Wohlfahrt Company, which distributed traditional hand-made German Christmas ornaments across the United States.

He was a proud member of the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, where he served as a lector and sang in the choir. He was also a member of the Blooming Prairie Chamber of Commerce; the American Legion, Post No. 91; the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post No. 878 of Blooming Prairie; and the board of directors of Arkema. Dale loved the theater, music, fishing, golfing, and gardening. He and Austra created a prairie wildflower garden, enjoyed by the local community. They traveled extensively—to Alaska, China, Egypt, Europe, Israel, Mexico, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and Latvia, Austra’s native country.

Dale is survived by his wife, Austra, of Blooming Prairie; children Bea (Stephanie Davies) Hanson of Brooklyn, New York; John (Robyn) Hanson of Grand Marais, Minnesota; sister Doris Samuelson and sister-in-law Gloria Hanson; nieces and nephews, other relatives; and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Paul; brothers Kasper (Norma) Hanson, Lyle (Evelyn) Hanson and Luther Hanson; sister Lorna Hanson; and brother-in-law Rolyn Samuelson.

Dale will be remembered for his exceptional kindness, gentleness, and compassion.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, presided by Rev. Jeff Sandgren and Rev. Heidi Heimgartner. There will be two visitations: the first from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 23, at the Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home and the second at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the First Lutheran Church. Interment will be in the Red Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Austin.

Donations in Dale’s memory may be directed to the Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club, First Lutheran Church, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 23 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Viola M. Knight, 96, passed away October 20, 2017, at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

Viola was born on November 17, 1920, in Casselton, North Dakota, to Reinhard and Anna (Bahls) Flath. She grew up with two sisters and one brother. Viola was the oldest child. Activities she liked to do when growing up were ice-skating, boating, fishing and visiting relatives on the farm.

Viola graduated from high school in Perham, Minnesota and then went to college in Fargo, North Dakota for business for two years. Viola was at her friend’s house when she met John Knight. While John served in World War II, Viola worked first at a West Union, Iowa bank as a bookkeeper, then at the Dallas County State Bank in Adel, Iowa as a teller and secretary. When John returned from the service they were married on Jan. 19, 1946, in Adel. They moved to New Hampton, Iowa and later to Osage, Iowa and then Austin, Minnesota. Viola did volunteer work at church, taught Sunday school, and was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and the Eastern Star.

John and Viola were married for 63 years until he passed away in 2009. The family enjoyed going to football games, travel, camping trips and going to rodeos. Viola enjoyed sewing, reading books (over 300!), going to sing-a-longs, exercise groups, music programs, church, and gardening. She also liked animals and rode horses.

Viola was preceded in death by her: husband: John Knight Sr., parents; sister: Virginia; sister, Violet.

She is survived by daughter: Lana Jo (Terry) Teigen, Plymouth, Minnesota; John Jr., Austin; grandchildren: Tracy (Todd) Sherner; Heather (Scott) Lundquist; Rob Knight; and Hilary Knight; great grandchildren: Tatum and Taverie Sherner and Calin Lundquist; brother: Virgil Flath, Portland, Oregon; sister-in-law: Bessie Jost, Livermore, California; nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26 at Westminster Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Michael Olmsted officiating. Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Friday. Visitation will be for one hour before the service on Thursday.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 23 OCT 2017

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Funeral Notice: Viola M. Knight, 96

Viola M. Knight, 96, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

Service: Memorial service at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Michael Olmsted officiating.

Visitation: At the church one hour before the service on Thursday.

Interment: Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Friday.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 25 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

September 20, 1925 - October 20, 2017

Maxine Dorothy Kearns, age 92, passed away on October, 20, 2017.

Maxine, daughter of George Kraushaar and Dora Kraushaar (Klukow), was born September 20, 1925, in Alden, Minnesota. Maxine attended country schools and graduated from Austin High School in 1943. After high school, she went to Chicago to work in a defense plant for 1 ½ years, then helped her parents on the farm. Maxine was married to Clayton Kearns on November 30, 1947, at Trondhjem Lutheran Church. In 1976, they moved to Austin. After Clayton's death, Maxine lived 6 years at The Cedars of Austin.

Maxine enjoyed fishing, quilting, embroidering dishtowels, teaching and attending Bible Studies, coordinating funerals, cooking, gardening, watching the Twins and spending time with her family. Maxine was a master of recycling before it was ever talked about - she could write a book on the endless way to use a plastic bread bag (including liners for winter boots). Her life lessons of caring for creation and companions will be remembered by all.

Survivors include her children, Jim and Dorothy Read of Rochester, Bruce and Linda Jacobson of FL, Wayne and Violet Kearns of Byron, Steve and Shari Mason of Austin, Joe and Kathy Gray of Austin, 10 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. Maxine is also survived by three brothers and one sister, Bob and Carol Kraushaar, Dick and Shirley Kraushaar, LeMoyne and Barb Kraushaar, LaVonne Buland, sister-in-law, Janice Slack, nieces and nephews.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Clayton, and grandson, Scott Read.

The family extends their gratitude to The Cedars of Austin for the outstanding care Maxine received. From the day she moved in until the day of her death, The Cedars provided endless activities, assistance and loving care. Additional thanks to Mayo Hospice for their sacred expertise in helping Maxine journey from this life to the next.

Service will be noon at Austin Congregational UCC on Saturday, October 28, with lunch to follow. Visitation will be one hour before service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested for Austin Congregational UCC, The Cedars of Austin, or Austin Mayo Hospice.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 24 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

November 06, 1924 - October 20, 2017

Merle D. Nelson, 92, passed away Friday, October 20, 2017 at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

Merle was born November 6, 1924, in Nevada Township to Helmer and Ronelia (Easton) Nelson. He graduated from Rose Creek High School in 1943 and served in the Philippines during World War II. On August 6, 1950 he married Mary Ann Dahle at Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams.

Merle farmed his entire life and also worked at the Austin Farm Center and later at Huntting Elevator. He was a member of Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church and the American Legion. In his spare time, he enjoyed bowling, camping, and playing cards.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann; son, Mark; brothers, Dale and Arden; sister-in-law, Elaine Nelson; and his parents.

Merle is survived by his daughter, Lori (Dale) Siegfreid, Austin, Minnesota; sons, Neil (Leslie) Nelson, Richfield, Minnesota, and Bryce (Kellie) Nelson, Rose Creek, Minnesota; daughter-in-law, Michelle Nelson, Auburn, WA; grandchildren: Brock Nelson, Adam (Kimberly) Nelson, Sarah Nelson, Joseph Siegfreid, Laura Siegfreid, Kailey (Ryan) Soller, Maggie Nelson, Aaron Nelson (Lisa Carrigan), and Kyle Nelson; five great-grandchildren; brother, Roger (Barbara) Nelson, Litchfield, Minnesota; sister-in-law, Diane Nelson, St. Cloud, Minnesota; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 28th at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church with the Reverend Scott Meyer officiating. Interment will be at Six Mile Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Friday, October 27th from 5 to 7 PM and at the church on Saturday one hour before the service.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 24 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Robert F. Kelley, 58 of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital-Rochester, Saint Marys Campus, in Rochester, Minnesota, following complications from a long battle with multiple sclerosis.

Robert Fredrick “Bob” was born in England on July 16, 1959, to Myrle W. and Mary Lou (Godfredson) Kelley. The son of a military father, his family lived in various places throughout the world during his youth. They settled in Leslie, Michigan, for a time, and it was there Bob graduated from high school. His family later moved to the Austin/Albert Lea, Minnesota, area. Bob returned to school and earned his machinist associate degree from Austin Area Vocational-Technical School (now Riverland Community College).

He was united in marriage to Dorothy Johnson in September 1978, and they had two sons Alan and Robert. They later divorced. Bob worked his entire career with Owatonna Tool Company (now SPX Corporation) until taking early retirement. On Jan. 24, 2014, he married Donna L. Freiermuth. He enjoyed working with pewter, collecting knives and swords, and expressing his creativity while working on his computer. To his family and friends, Bob was known as a man with a very generous heart, and treasured time spent with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Donna of Austin; sons, Robert (Monica) Johnson of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and Alan (Ariana) Johnson of Hayward, Wisconsin; stepdaughters, Jasmine Miller of Floyd, Virginia, and Stephanie Valek of Plymouth, Minnesota; six grandchildren; and three stepgrandchildren; brother, Myrle (Chris) Kelley of Paris, Arkansas; sisters, Cindy (Daniel) Olmstead of Pleasant Lake, Michigan, and Candace (Darin) Hable of Albert Lea, Minnesota; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Debra at infancy; and great-nephews, Jayce and Zane Hable. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Condolences may be expressed to the family online atwww.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 24 OCT 2017

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Funeral Notice: Robert F. Kelley, 58

Robert F. Kelley, 58, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital-Rochester, Saint Marys Campus, in Rochester, Minnesota, following complications from a long battle with multiple sclerosis.

Service: Celebration of Life from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home.

Memorials: Memorials are preferred to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 25 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Paul Melvin Gunneson, 63, Waltham, Minnesota, passed away on October 17, 2017, in Austin, Minnesota.

Paul was born on Sept. 1, 1954, the son of Dalen and Elsie (Geyer) Gunneson in Austin. He attended school in Stewartville and Hayfield High School. He attended Rochester Vo-Tech in auto mechanics. Paul married Stormy Naylor on May 23, 1975, in Hayfield. He was a truck driver for Commercial Services for Hormel in Austin but was a farmer to his core. Paul farmed the Gunneson family farm for his entire life, learning the tricks of the trade from his father and other family members.

Paul was a fun-loving man with a kind and generous heart who always saw the good in everyone. Paul enjoyed restoring classic cars, attending races and was a member of a car club. But, above all, Paul loved his family. He reveled in their company; he enjoyed playing games, going on car cruises, and having long conversations over a hot cup of coffee and chocolate chip cookies.

Paul is survived by his wife, Stormy Gunneson, Waltham; two daughters, Jessica (David) Schnepple, Nairobi, Kenya, and Lindsay Cordle, Waltham; five grandchildren, Tye Pelot, Simon Schnepple, Oliver Schnepple, Savanna Cordle, and Tucker Cordle; and one sister, Beverly (Roger) Powers, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home 501 Second St. NW in Hayfield and one hour before the service at the church on Friday.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 27, 2017, at the first Baptist Church, 206 East Main St. in Brownsdale, Minnesota with Pastor Ken Petzold officiating. Interment will be in the Waltham Township Cemetery.

www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.coms

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 25 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Wendy S. (Dickinson) Eickhoff, 50, of Plymouth, Minnesota, passed on Thursday, October 19, 2017, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

A celebration of her life will take place at the Minneapolis Marriott Southwest starting on noon on Saturday, October 28. Dress is casual.

Wendy Sue Dickinson was born on June 7, 1967, in Iowa City, Iowa, to David and Marvis (Okeson) Dickinson. She grew up in Austin, Minnesota, and attended Austin High School and Austin Community College (now Riverland Community College) where she won the junior college state championship in women’s singles tennis in 1987. She graduated from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Business in 1989.

She was united in marriage to Joseph Eickhoff on Dec. 4, 1993, in Minneapolis.

She was an active, athletic person her entire life. She continued to play tennis (many times practicing with the men’s team because her ground strokes were so fierce) as well as volleyball, softball and downhill skiing. She will be missed for her infectious laugh, her positive attitude towards life and her generous, giving nature.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Joe; her two children, Logan and Nicholas; her parents; her sisters, Shelley (Bruce) Johnson, Mary Griffiths, and Nancy (Kendal) Norberg; brother, John Dickinson; aunt, Kay (Harry) Kuefler; her Thom and Smedberg cousins; and nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by uncles, Don Thom and Jerry Smedberg; and aunt, Jeanne Smedberg.

Memorials to the ALS Association are preferred.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 25 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Johanna M. Mullenbach, 94, of Adams, Minnesota, died peacefully, surrounded by her family on Monday, Oct. 23, 2017, at the Adams Health Care Center.

Johanna Mary Mullenbach was born June 26, 1923, to Joseph P. and Katherine (Hemann) Koenigs in Meyer, Iowa. She was baptized at the Sacred Heart Church in Meyer and attended school in Meyer as well. She was married to Erwin Mullenbach on May 21, 1946, at Meyer and they had six boys. Johanna was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church at Adams and was active in CCW, the Rosary Society and Catholic Aid. She was a member of the Adams American Legion Auxiliary. Johanna loved flowers and gardening; canning and cooking were among the many things she enjoyed doing. She liked to crochet, quilt and play cards. She also collected birds and angels.

Johanna was preceded in death by her parents; husband, son Roger Mullenbach in January 2017; sisters, Marcella Jax and Anna Miller; and brothers, Gilbert and Henry Koenigs.

She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Monica (Douty) Mullenbach, Rose Creek, Melvin and Pam (Harris) Mullenbach, Adams, Dennis and Marcia (Huseby) Mullenbach, Adams, Raymond and Margaret (Kirtz) Mullenbach, Adams, and James and Dana (Smith) Mullenbach, Adams; grandchildren, Tim (Jill) Mullenbach, Tara (Jim) Mandt, Ryan (Kristen) Mullenbach, Amy (Joseph) Flynn, Andrew Mullenbach, Nicholas Mullenbach, Erin Mullenbach, Brandon (Mollie) Mullenbach, April (Brian) Helle, Emily (Shane) Bunne, Matthew (Bobbie) Napier, and Casey, Henry, Chase and Megan Mullenbach.; great-grandchildren, Samantha (John) Mueller, Lucas, Colton and Ashlynn Mandt, Cassie, Heather, Sarah and Stacie Mullenbach, Dylan, Grace and Isaac Mullenbach, Ryder Flynn, Natalie, Allie and Noah Bunne, Spencer Swenson, Marnie and Libbie Mullenbach, Brody, Justin and Lara Helle, and Albert Napier, with two more on the way; great-great-granddaughter, Leighton Mueller; sisters, Bernadette Kraus, Charles City, Iowa, and Martha Boe, Adams; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Lois Warzynski, Dorothy Mullenbach, Leon and Johnetta Mullenbach, and Nathan and Dorothy Mullenbach; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Adams with Father Swaminatha Pothireddy officiating. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. There will be a rosary service at 4 p.m. on Wednesday at the Adams Funeral Home, where visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursday.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 25 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Marion G. Teepell, 90, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Health System-Austin.

Marion was born on July 23, 1927, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Arnold and Anna (Nelson) Jochumsen. She was baptized at St. John’s Lutheran Church. She attended Oakland Grade School and graduated from Austin High School in 1945. Marion married Harry Teepell Jr. on June 4, 1950, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin. She was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.

Marion was the mirror image of the person we all wish we could be; an example of the definition of unconditional love. She often spoke about how she believed nobody deserved less than anyone else. Due to this mindset, she was often noticeably sacrificing for others, not only for those she loved dearly, but also lending a helping hand to those she just met.

She was raised in a loving family consisting of 12 children. She often referred to her mom as a saint when reflecting on her memories. Marion followed in her mother’s footsteps being recognized as the Saint in her own family. Her parents would’ve been so proud to know this.

As a widow, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was one whom they all say, only kind words of encouragement and inspiration for all. Her laugh could light up a room and her hugs were so genuine they made you want more. As her family processes her loss, what pulls them through is how they want to honor her by living life with her spirit, as the mirror image of the person we all wish we could be, an example of the definition of unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harry Teepell in 1997; daughter, Kathy Wefel; six brothers; and three sisters.

Marion is beloved by her family including her son, Scott Teepell, Austin; grandchildren, Tashma Teepell, Tucson, Arizona, Tiffany Wefel, Lakeville, Minnesota, and Laira Teepell, Austin; great-grandchildren, Dominic Wefel and Ava Buneta; sisters, Francine James, Austin, and Erlys (Dick) Goslee, Byron, Minnesota; and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Rev. Karen Behling officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be at the mortuary one hour before the service on Friday.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 26 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Lola J. Handahl, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, at her home in Austin.

Lola Joyce Wangen was born July 11, 1928, in rural Freeborn County, Minnesota, to Elvin and Marie (Kallestad) Wangen. She attended Blue Earth (Minnesota) High School. On May 7, 1955, Lola was united in marriage to Gordon Handahl. Their union was blessed with four children. Lola served as a caregiver for various people in the Austin area, in addition to her role as wife and mother. She was an amateur actress and loved music. Lola enjoyed attending plays, playing the keyboard, singing and dancing. Her other interests included reading, walking, and biking, especially to McDonald’s for coffee.Spending time with her family was especially important to her. Lola will be dearly missed by her friends and family.

Survivors include her daughter, Hali (Joseph) Mendez of Portland, Oregon; her sons, Kirk (Michelle) Handahl of Rochester, Minnesota, Brad Handahl of Burnsville, Minnesota, and Barry (Lori) Handahl of Austin; five grandchildren; her brothers, James Wangen of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Abdiel “Skip” Wangen of Blue Earth; sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Wangen of Austin, Arlene Wangen of Mankato Minnesota, Betty Warnke of Mankato, Audrey (John) Connor of Madison Lake, Minnesota; and brother-in-law, Bob (Bonnie) Handahl of Villa Hills, Kentucky. Lola was preceded in death by her parents, Elvin and Marie Wangen; her husband, Gordon in 1999; her brothers, Gene and George Wangen; and sister-in-law, Lucretia Wangen.

A memorial gathering will be held from 1-3 p.m. p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the Salvation Army or recipient of donor’s choice.

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

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 26 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral notice: Scott David Dirksen, 27

Published 7:47 am Thursday, October 26, 2017

Scott David Dirksen, 27, of Columbus, Nebraska, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died suddenly on Saturday, October 21, 2017, in Columbus.

Service: A memorial service at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Dave Simerson officiating.

Interment: Rose Creek Enterprise Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 26 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Rodney E. Mauer, 67, of Owatonna, Minnesota, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017, at his home.

Rod was born June 2, 1950, in Austin, Minnesota, the son of Leon and Marcella (Dockham) Mauer. He grew up on a farm outside of Austin, graduated from Austin High School and attended Austin Vo-Tech. He was united in marriage to Marianne on July 26, 1985, at the Associated Church and they made their home in Owatonna. Rod worked retail in Archery and Fishing for many years; including his Rack and Fin Store in Medford.

Rod enjoyed hunting, fishing and sharing archery skills with youth. He held multiple board positions for the 20 Rifle and Pistol Club that he was active in for over 30 years. Rod was a great conversationalist and shared many stories with his friends and family. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Marianne Mauer of Owatonna; daughters, Heather Walkingstick of Owatonna, Michelle (Ron) Mead of Ellendale, Minnesota, and Tina Lau of Austin; son, Corey Mauer of Austin; grandchildren, Amanda (Tyler) Fraser, Stephanie (Mike) Larson, Brittney Mead, Kody, Hailey, and Brooklyn Lau; great grandsons, Cole Fraser, Matthew Larson, and Tevari McRelly; brother, Doug (Jodi) Mauer of Austin; sister, Lu (Helmut) Gust of Janesville; and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Michaelson Funeral Home, Owatonna and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Owatonna. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. John Sauer officiating.

Private interment will be held at a later date at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 27 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Kay Francine (nee DeVries) Finney, 69, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, October 25, 2017, in her home, surrounded by family after a courageous two-year battle with melanoma.

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1600 W Oakland Ave. Austin, Minnesota. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service with a luncheon following the service.

Kay was born August 15, 1948, to Elmer and Arvilla (nee Cady) DeVries of Preston, Minnesota. Kay graduated from Preston High School and attended St. Olaf College.

In 1967, Kay married Robert Finney of Canton, Minnesota, at Christ Lutheran Church in Preston. The couple lived in Rochester, Minnesota, while finishing studies at Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) and then moved to Austin where Kay had a successful career at the Hormel Credit Union (now Accentra) while Bob was with Hormel Foods.

Family life was first and foremost for Kay, whose household was always busy with school sports, music concerts, holiday and birthday celebrations, beloved pets, church activities, and family vacations. As adults, all her children lived in close proximity, and she and Bob were able to enjoy being part of the lives of their eight cherished granddaughters. They traveled extensively with friends and family.

Survivors include husband, Bob; son, Kyle (Robyn) Finney; daughter, Kirsten Shipler; son Nathan (Becky) Finney; eight granddaughters, Taylor and Rylee Finney, Madeline and Morgan Shipler, Nicole Beeman, and Mikayla, Hannah and Kellie Finney; and great-grandson, Carter Beeman. She is also survived by a brother, Jon DeVries (Christine) of Chicago and Preston.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Brenda Kay Finney; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Fossum.

Byron Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.byronfuneralhome.com

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 27 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb

 

Gary D. Trimble, 64, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, October 24, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospitals – Methodist Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

Gary was born February 10, 1953, in Austin, Minnesota, to Richard and Marlys (Brekke) Trimble. He graduated from Austin High School in 1971. Gary was baptized and confirmed at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. He married Sherry Noble in October 1974 and they later divorced. In June 1983 he married Denniece Fodness.

At a very young age Gary could be seen walking around with a rag in his back pocket. His first “position” at Trimble’s Super Service was washing bugs off headlights of customers and by the age of nine he began pumping gas. Gary worked his way through the family business and remained there for his entire career, becoming part owner of Trimble’s Cycle Center as Parts Department Manager.

Gary was passionate about cars, motorcycles, hot air ballooning, drag racing, Budweiser, fishing, air shows, RC boating, but most of all his grandchildren. He was a perfectionist in all that he did and loved to work.

In 2013 it became apparent that Gary would need a liver transplant due to PSC. On July 11, 2017, he underwent his first liver transplant which in the end was rejected. He was re-transplanted a second liver on Sept. 17. Due to the severity of his illness, it was also rejected. After a courageous fight, he lost his battle with Denniece by his side. The family would like to thank Dr. Julie Heimback, Dr. Charles Rosen, the ICU doctors and nurses and all staff on the 10th floor of Methodist Hospital, who after four months have become like family. Also, thank you to Kimmy Cummins who volunteered to be Gary’s living donor. Although it wasn’t to be, she will always have a place in our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Trimble.

Gary is survived by his wife, Denniece Trimble, Austin; children, Bryan Trimble, Austin, Brad (Bridgette) Trimble, Austin, Brandon (Bridget) Fodness, Austin, and Jerry (Katrina) Fodness, Minneapolis, Minnesota; eight grandchildren, Brayden, Vivian, Keziah, Natalie, Nicholas, Jacob, Mia and Rocco; his mother, Marlys Trimble, Austin; siblings, Debi (Stan) Iverson, Austin, Jeff (Debbie) Trimble, Austin, Kathy (Dave) Bjorge, Austin, Cheryl (Steve) Greenman, Austin, and Scott Trimble and fiancee Marie Stackenwalt, Austin; brothers-in-law, Mike (Jo) Salic, Granada, Minnesota, and Jerry (Mary) Dahlstrom-Salic, Bloomington, Indiana; sister-in-law, Becky (Dave) Hillmann, Fairmont, Minnesota; and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga, AiM officiating. Visitation will be at 4-7 p.m. on Sunday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and at the church on Monday one hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Gift of Life Transplant House in Rochester, St. Olaf Church in Austin, or the charity of your choice.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website, 27 OCT 2017

©2017 MNGenWeb