Art Hollerud, 75, of Austin, Minnesota, died at home on Saturday, April 28, 2018, surrounded by his loving family after being diagnosed with chronic leukemia on February 21 of this year.

Art was born in Lyle, Minnesota, on December 23, 1942, to Charles and Doris Hollerud. He attended school in Lyle, graduating in 1960. He met Sharon Young during their senior year after her family moved to Lyle and they were married May 19, 1962. After graduating barber school in Minneapolis, he barbered in Lyle and Mapleview, Minnesota, until going into real estate in 1978. In 1982, he attended auctioneer school in Mason City, Iowa, and continued doing both until his death.

Art loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren; trail riding, fishing and selling real estate.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Doris Hollerud; his brother, Richard; and nephew, Todd Hollerud.

Art is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sharon; his sons, Scott (Annette) Hollerud, Erik Hollerud, Craig (Corie) Hollerud and Mark (Andrea) Hollerud; six grandchildren, Kyra, Erika, Kinsey, Arthur, Amelia and Melody; brother, Roger (Elaine) Hollerud; sister-in-law, Lois Hollerud; nieces, Malia Haskins (Kurt Gonyea), Shawn (Scott) Johnson, Kris Hollerud and Jodie Hollerud; uncle, Kenneth (Eleanor) Hollerud; cousins; and sisters-in-law, Carol Rauen and Shirley (Bill) Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with Jon Best officiating. Private interment will be at Woodbury Cemetery in Lyle. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Friday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and one hour on Saturday before the service.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 1 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

July 10, 1938 - April 26, 2018

Mary Ann Judd Ruffins, 79 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 26, 2018, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin, after a brief illness.

Mary Ann was born July 10, 1938, in Austin, Minnesota, to Leonard and Lillian (Gulbrandson) Judd. She spent her childhood in Austin and graduated from St. Augustine High School in 1956. After graduation, she followed her calling and joined the convent at St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester.

After several years of being in the convent, she left to pursue her passion for music and moved to Chicago, Illinois. Mary Ann studied music at the Sherwood Institute of Music and had many students with whom she shared her love of the piano. While in Chicago, she met the love of her life, John B. Ruffins. Along with her music, she worked for the State of Illinois as a social worker from which she retired in 2007. Mary Ann loved to cook and play the piano for all of her extended family when she came home for holidays.

She loved sports and bus trips to Twins games and the casino. Mary Ann adored all her nieces and nephews and their children and showered them with gifts and love. After suffering a stroke in 2010, she spent three weeks in the hospital in Chicago, was transported to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester and then to Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea, Minnesota, where she resided for eight years. In January of 2018, the family was fortunate to bring her to Austin to Sacred Heart Care Center where she resided until her passing.

Mary Ann is survived by her sister: Barb (Ron) Huffman, Austin, Minnesota; Brothers: James Judd, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Mike Judd, Austin, Minnesota; Sisters-in-law: Delores (Pete) Judd, Austin, Minnesota; Magdelyn Judd, Albert Lea, Minnesota; and Helen Judd, Austin, Minnesota; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Ruffins; parents, Leonard and Lillian Judd; brothers, Keith Judd, Wayne Judd, and Duane Judd; sister-in-law, Hildegarde Judd and nephew, Wade Judd.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin, MN with Father James Steffes officiating. A luncheon will follow the service. Private interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website

Also see: Austin Daily Herald, Sat. 5 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

April 18, 1930 - April 28, 2018

Kenneth J. Retterath, 88 of Adams, Minnesota, died at his home on Saturday, April 28, 2018.

Private family services will be held.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website, 3 MAY 2018

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#2:

Kenneth Joseph Retterath, 88

Kenneth Joseph (K.J.) Retterath, 88, of Adams, Minnesota, died peacefully in his home on April 28, 2018.

Ken was born April 18, 1930, in Stacyville, Iowa, to Michael and Anna (Heimer) Retterath of Meyer, Iowa. Ken joined the U.S. Air Force prior to the Korean War.

Ken married Annabelle Blake, also of Meyer, on Sept. 27, 1950, and the couple built their first home in Adams in 1951.

Ken was a building contractor and business owner of K.J. Retterath Builders of Adams for 50 years. Ken established a residential subdivision in northwest Adams. He built countless homes and agri-buildings around the region. He established Adams Builders Supply, Adams Agri-Builders, and Austin Builders Supply. Ken served as mayor of Adams in the 1960s and was also on the Adams Fire Department. Ken was a skillful and avid card player. Later in life, he and Annabelle enjoyed boating on the Mississippi River with his family. His children were the most important to Ken.

Ken is survived by his four children,13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, Russell and Lahoma Retterath of Adams and their children, Michael Retterath, Laura Retterath, Robert and Jenna Retterath, Jessica, Bianca, Easton; and Charlotte (Retterath) and Randy Thill, Logan, Sheila (Retterath) and Joy Blom of Austin, Minnesota, and their children, Simone (Tessar) and Ryan Fenske, Audrey and Ethan; Alex and Kasey Tessar, Piper; Sara Blom, Coleman and Sarah Blom, Kia; Julie (Retterath) and Steve Hackensmith of Austin and their children, Alison (Hackensmith) and Dan Boeder, Emma; and Greg and Courtney Hackensmith; Kelvin and Susie Retterath of Mound, Minnesota, and their children, Kole, Kwin and Kade.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle; and his parents, Mike and Anna Retterath.

The family honored his wish of a private memorial Mass and burial on May 2 at Sacred Heart Cemetery. The Adams Legion Post conducted a military service at the cemetery. Memorials may be given to Sacred Heart School of Adams or donor’s choice.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 4 MAY 2018

Also see: Austin Daily Herald, Sat. 5 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

August 5, 1935 - April 28, 2018

Marlene Helen (Wagner) Whalen was born August 5, 1935, to Jacob and Amelia (Blonigan) Wagner in Austin, Minnesota. She was the youngest of five children.

She attended grade school at Columbus School in Austin and Austin’s St. Augustine.

She was a stay at home mom raising ten children. She worked at a time at Sterling Drug and Sacred Heart Nursing home in the kitchen.

She was united in marriage to Oliver Whalen in January of 1969 in Rose Creek, Minnesota.

Marlene was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved to cook for her family and enjoyed having her family around her. She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles, going to the casino, coffee on Sundays at the Donut Connection and conversations with friends at the Morning Coffee Club at Hy-Vee. She loved her cappuccino from Caribou. She enjoyed traveling, family fishing trips, bird watching and shopping.

She is survived by her children; David (Dee) of Rose Creek, Larry (Marty) of Backus, Minnesota, Brian (Connie Brown-Caldwell) of Rose Creek, Rita (Tom) Hanegraaf of Rose Creek, Paula (Larry) Goslee of Austin, LuAnne (Larry) Rowe of Hayfield, Barbara (Phil) Wollenburg of Rochester, Barbara (Ed) Nystrom of Fort Walton Beach, FL and Lisa (Robert) Welper of Clear Lake, IA; 24 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; She is also survived by her sister-law Sharon Wagner, of Austin.

She was preceded in death by husband Oliver, parents, one son, Douglas and, her brother, Donald Wagner; sisters Gertrude Bellrichard, Winifred Gavin, and Collette Neus.

A Celebration of Marlene’s life will be 11:00 am on Friday, May 4, 2018 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek. Friends may call Thursday May 3, 4-7 pm at St. Peter’s Catholic church and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Condolence may be online at www.mayerfh.com

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 2 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Born: April 9, 1931
Died: April 30, 2018

Edward O. Engen, age 87 of rural Austin, Minnesota, passed away Monday, April 30, 2018 at his home.

Services are pending with Worlein Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home website

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#2:

Edward Olaf “Bud” Engen, 87

Edward Olaf “Bud” Engen, 87, of rural Austin, Minnesota, passed away Monday, April 30, 2018, at his home in Lansing Township, Minnesota.

Bud was born on April 9, 1931, in Austin to Clarence and Paula (Larson) Engen. He grew up on the family farm near Austin and graduated with the Class of 1949 from Austin High School.

On Nov. 6, 1954, he was united in marriage to Frances Della Tollefson at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church in rural Austin. They raised their family and farmed in rural Austin. Frances passed away in December of 1987. On December 20, 1998, Bud married Delores Anderson in Cannon Falls, Minnesota. Bud and Delores resided on their Lansing Township farm. In 1999, he officially “retired” from farming. Bud’s family continued the farming operation, and Bud continued to be active in the profession he loved!

He was a longtime member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin, the Austin FFA Alumni and a past member of the Austin Moose Lodge 1735. Bud was an avid fisherman, treasuring his many years at the family cabin on Big Chippewa Lake near Alexandria, Minnesota. Bud will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Delores Engen of Cannon Falls, formerly of Austin; daughters, Julie (Chuck) Naatz of Waltham, Minnesota, and Judie (Randy) Jacobson of Niceville, Florida; four grandchildren, Stephanie (Brandon) Burbank of Rochester, Minnesota, Rebecca Johnson of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Sarah Naatz of Blooming Prairie and Christine Jacobson of Boston, Massachusetts; four great-grandchildren, Brady and Abbey Johnson and Hunter and Brynn Burbank; sisters, Mildred Ehlers of Austin, Lillian (Charles) McPherson of Blacksburg, Virginia, and Wanda Citurs of Northwood, Iowa; and Delores’s children and their families.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Frances; son, Robert; parents, Clarence and Paula Engen; brothers, Jerald and Leland; sister, Clara; and grandson-in-law, Derek Johnson.

Funeral services for Bud will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 4, 2018, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga, Associate in Ministry, officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, 2018, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and for one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Memorials preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald 2 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Doris Taldine (Snater) Hargis, 89, passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2017, at her home.

She was born on July 30, 1928, to Ben and Agnes Snater of Hollandale, Minnesota. Doris attended and graduated from Austin Public Schools in 1946. After graduating, she worked in the payroll department of the Geo. A. Hormel Co. until she met and married John V. Hargis Jr. on June 24, 1950. From this union came one daughter, Sandra Kay.

After staying home for 10 years, Doris returned to work in 1961, this time at the Austin State Bank. She worked in the banking business for 15 years. After leaving banking, she was recommended for a teaching position at Austin Vocational in the new banking program. Doris taught for two years, then ended her career sewing custom drapes at Wallace’s Drapery Department.

Sewing, crocheting and knitting were always part of Doris’s life. She made beautiful clothes, sweaters, coats, draperies and numerous other items, including covers for golf clubs. She loved to golf and was the one who brought John to the game. From then on, golf was their number one activity! Doris was a member of the Ladies Club of Ramsey Golf Course and, in later years, assisted with bookkeeping duties.

She was a member of Fellowship Methodist Church and became a member of First Methodist after moving to the west side of Austin, Minnesota. After John passed in 1993, the church and its members became her primary interest. She was a member of Ladies Circle, participated annually in the church bazaar, served on the audit committee, Caring Ministries, Walk With Jesus project and assisted in sewing dolls and blankets for the Haitian mission project, plus numerous other craft items as needed.

Doris is survived by her daughter, Sandra K. Thompson of Austin; sister, Judy Norwich, Flagstaff, Arizona; grandchildren, Jonathan C. Thompson, Austin, Laurie M. and Jon W. Jones, Minnetonka, Minnesota; great-granddaughter, Alexa Madison Jones; brother-in-law, George Hargis, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota; and numerous nieces and nephews on both sides.

She was preceded in death by her parents; mother and father-in-law, John and Priscilla Hargis; brothers, Maurice Duane and Orville Snater; sister-in-law, Alice Snater; brother-in-law, Dick Norwich; sisters-in-law, Mabel MacIlwain, Zora (Giles) Crane, Betty (Lloyd) Athey and Irene Dorman; and brothers-in-law Dwain (Judy) Hargis and Roger (Marlene) Hargis.

The family would like to thank Austin Hospice Center for their excellent care and support during this difficult journey. From the nurses to the aides to the volunteers, everyone displayed a genuine concern and caring attitude. Also thank you to Eric and Jim of Clasen-Jordan Mortuary for their assistance with the final arrangements.

The family will receive visitors at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the Mapleview Community Hall, 101 Maple Ave. All are welcome to join the family for a brief graveside service at 11:30 a.m. in Oakwood Cemetery. Guests are invited to join the family after the service for a luncheon at the Mapleview Community Hall. In the event of inclement weather, the service will be held at the Mapleview Community Hall.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald 2 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Edith Mildred Krachmer, 99, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on April 30, 2018, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin.

Millie, as she was known, was born March 29, 1919, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Frank and Edith (Hardesty) Ellis.

Millie enjoyed a long and enjoyable life. When she was younger, she worked at Hormel, as a waitress, and helped at Mitchell’s Tavern at times. She and Lawrence built and remodeled many homes in Austin, finishing one then starting another. They moved around Austin quite often. She and Lawrence were great dancers and very seldom missed a chance to dance on the weekends. She loved to travel and made many trips to Europe, Florida and other areas. In the last few years, she loved to visit with her family at her home every weekend, enjoyed playing cards with family and friends and occasional trips to a casino.

Millie is survived by her five children, Lanny (Karen) Krachmer, Janet (Christopher) Thissen, Janice (Steve Fuller) Perrigo and JoAnne Clark, all of Austin, and Melody (Mark) Handlen of Oceano, California, and Colorado Springs, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence; and her parents.

A memorial for family and friends will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Community Room of the Courtyard Apartments.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald 3 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Dalvin Fredrick Augustin, 92, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at The Cedars of Austin.

He was born Sept. 29, 1925, in Sargeant, Minnesota, the son of Fredrick and Nora (Karges) Augustin. Dalvin attended school in the Elkton, Minnesota, area and worked both as a farmer and a laborer at Hormel Foods Corporation for 35 years. In 1943, Dalvin enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the European Theatre. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

On Dec. 29, 1946, Dalvin and Janet Wright were united in marriage at the Dexter United Methodist Church. The couple raised eight children and lost a son, Mark, in infancy. The Augustins made their home on a farm in the early years of their marriage before moving in to Austin. He truly loved farming. Dalvin was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin. He was a music lover and a sports lover, avidly following the Minnesota Vikings and the Gophers. He enjoyed attending musicals, his favorite being “Oklahoma.” Dalvin sang with the Northwestern Singers. He enjoyed growing roses and especially loved maple nut ice cream. Dalvin’s greatest joy was his grandchildren. He was a regular spectator at their many activities. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Janet Augustin of Austin; their eight children, Gary (Janie) Augustin of Lee Summit, Missouri, Carmella (John) Rasmussen of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Marlys Curtis of Joplin, Missouri, William (Candy) Augustin of Lafayette, Indiana, Brenda (Mike) Felten of Cloquet, Minnesota, John Augustin of Kasson, Minnesota, Mary (Randy) Erath of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, and Robert (Therese) Augustin of Knoxville, Iowa; 23 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren; one brother, John (Janice) Augustin of Hudson, Wisconsin; sister-in-law, Marie Burma of Austin; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Dalvin was preceded in death by his parents; his infant son, Mark; brother, Harold; sister, Annetta; son-in-law, Gary Curtis; grandson, Blake; and granddaughter, Heidi.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor James Groleau officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, May 7, at Worlein Funeral Home and will continue for one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. Interment will follow the service at Grandview Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the St. John’s Lutheran Church radio fund or recipient of 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, 4 MAY 2018

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#2: FUNERAL NOTICE

Dalvin Frederick Augustin, 92

Dalvin Fredrick Augustin, 92, of Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at The Cedars of Austin.

Service: Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor James Groleau officiating.

Visitation: Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, May 7, at Worlein Funeral Home and will continue for one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church.

Interment: Interment will follow the service at Grandview Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

Funeral Home: Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the S

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, Sat. 5 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral notice: Anna M. Miller, 97

Anna M. Miller, 97, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, May 3, 2018, at St. John’s Lutheran Home.

Service: A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, at Mayer Funeral Home.

Visitation: Friends may call from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, at Mayer Funeral Home.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolence may be online at www.mayerfh.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 4 MAY 2018

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Obituary for Anna Marie Miller

May 31, 1920 - May 3, 2018

Anna Marie Miller age 97, of Austin died Thursday, May 3, 2018 at St. John’s Lutheran Home in Albert Lea.

Anna was born May 31, 1920 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Joseph and Marie Starnick. She grew up in Pittsburgh and attended country school.

On March 16, 1954, she was united in marriage to John Miller in Winchester, West Virginia. The couple later moved to Austin due to the flip of a coin. John was a baseball player and it was heads Austin, tails Baltimore. To this union three sons were born.

Anna enjoyed many things, polka dancing, card club, fishing, baseball games and the MN twins.

Survivors include her sons, Tim (Pat) Miller, Austin, Jim (Linda) Miller, Austin; three grandchildren; and three great grandchildren

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; son Johnny.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Mayer Funeral Home. Friends may call from 12-1 pm at Mayer Funeral Home on Tuesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

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

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home website, 4 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Shirley Marie Severtson, 91, of Eustis, Florida, received her angel wings on April 29, 2018.

She was born Aug. 17, 1926, to Walter and Camilla O. Andersen in Austin, Minnesota. She graduated from Austin High School with honors. Shirley graduated from Minnesota School of Business in 1946 and was a secretary for many years. She married Irving T. Severtson in 1953 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 1971, they moved to Idyllwild, California, and were owners of a gift shop there for 25 years. In 1999, they moved to Cathedral City, California after retiring. Shirley was a member of Hope Lutheran Church, Palm Desert, California, and Sons of Norway.

Mrs. Severtson was preceded in death by her husband, Irving; her parents; her two sisters; a niece; and a nephew. She is survived by numerous nephews, nieces and their children.

Entombment will be at Lakewood Mausoleum in Minneapolis. The family wishes that memorials be made to the donor’s choice.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, Sat. 5 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Francis Joseph (Bugsy) Moran, 81, died unexpectedly, but peacefully, around 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 23, 2018, in Adams, Minnesota.

Francis was born on June 5, 1936, to Florence Gibbons in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was an only child and unfortunately never knew his father, but was very proud of his Sicilian and Irish ancestry.

Francis grew up very poor, but was rewarded in living a very rich, fulfilling and memorable life by having a strong work ethic, lasting friendships and a committed family. Dropping out of school in the fifth grade to take care of his ailing mother, who passed when he was 17-years-old, he managed to accomplish and experience more than most people where a lesser person would have failed.

Francis was proud that he always had a job from the age of 12. One of his most memorable jobs as a teen was working as a bellhop at the Pittsburgh Athletic Association club, where he was asked to carry out “additional duties” of transferring booze to gangsters in the back room, being asked to sing for Liberace and Art Rooney (the founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers) and given the opportunity to audition to sing with Perry Como.

He worked as a “soda jerk” in an ice cream parlor, where he added extra ice cream to the banana splits for the pretty girls. He also worked as a coal miner, painted cars and as a crane operator in a steel mill. His primary occupation as a professional trucking owner and operator for almost 40 years earned him multiple professional driving awards, covering about eight million miles through 48 states in his career. He was known to his trucker buddies by his CB handle, “Minnesota Mountain Man.”

Francis married Beverly Lidwell in 1954, and they had three children, Frankie, Debra and Jennifer. They later divorced in 1970.

While hauling meat to Hormel in Austin, Minnesota, from Pittsburgh, Francis would stop at The Truck Stop in Austin, where he met his future wife (Viola) who had been his waitress. The story goes that when he first asked her out, her response was, “What the hell for?” Despite a rocky start, they were later married on Aug. 23, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota. He was blessed by gaining six stepchildren, Marica, Laurie, Mike, Bruce, Mark and Dan, and later had a son, Todd, in 1972. They were married for 44 years before Viola’s passing in 2015.

Francis had an infectious, unique and colorful personality that you could not help being drawn to. He was not a professional storyteller, but certainly could have been when discussing his life adventures, which kept you hanging on his every word even if you had heard these stories hundreds of times before. His incredible stories, voice, laughter, sense of humor, compassion and “trucker mouth” will be missed. He could strike up conversations and friendships with anyone, anytime and anywhere. Even though he often referred to his family as his heroes, his family viewed him the real hero.

Anyone who knew Francis, or “Bugsy” as most called him, knew he was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He attended numerous games at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh as well as sitting second row, 20-yard line at Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa Bay, Florida, giving “high fives” to the champs after the game. His Steelers shrine and collectables would make any fan proud.

A very special thanks to his home care workers, Kim and Jen, and nurse, Ellie, who he talked about as if they were family. To the incredible care staff at Adams Nursing Center that provided exceptional and loving care, even when his temper would have tested anyone’s patience.

Francis is survived by his sons, Dr. Todd (Juanita) Moran, Michael (Joan) Hinks, Bruce (Barb) Hinks, Mark (Kathy) Hinks and Dan Hinks; and daughters, Debra Moran, Jennifer (Kirk) Shumaker and Marica (Steven) Stenberg.

Francis was preceded in death by his wife, Viola; daughter, Laurie (Dittberner); and son, Frankie.

There will be a graveside service at 11 a.m. on May 26 at the Grand Meadow Cemetery to celebrate a remarkable life. Cards can be sent to his son, Todd Moran (1009 36th St NW, Austin, MN 55912) or he can be contacted at 507-438-2010.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, Sat. 5 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Florence E. (Schaefer) Schmitz, 98, of Adams, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, May 6, 2018, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin, Minnesota.

Florence Emily (Schaefer) Schmitz was born on Dec. 31, 1919, in Adams, the daughter of Joseph Schaefer and Elizabeth (Mueller) Schaefer. Florence was baptized, confirmed and married at Sacred Heart Church in Adams. She attended Sacred Heart School and graduated from Adams High School in 1937. She went to the School of Cosmetology in Mankato, Minnesota. After graduating, she worked at Bob’s Beauty Shop. She was married to Herman Schmitz when he returned from service in World War II. They were married on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22, 1945.

With their passion towards owning a nursery, the opportunity arose in 1959 when Herman and Florence bought Halver’s Greenhouse in Adams, renaming it Herman’s Gardens. Together they built a thriving floral shop and nursery averaging three to four weddings each weekend throughout Mower County. After Herman’s death in 1971, Florence continued as owner, operator and designer of Herman’s Gardens. She attended many floral seminars in Minneapolis, which kept her abreast of the floral trends. Having provided the wedding flowers for so many brides over the years, it was fun for her to greet couples while dining out or shopping who would remember her and say, “You did my wedding flowers!” Florence closed the business and retired in 2005.

In addition to being an independent business owner, she belonged to the Rosary Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Adams Health Care Auxiliary, the Changing Seasons Garden Club, bridge club, the Sacred Heart bible study group and the Sacred Heart prayer chain. Florence prayed the rosary daily, dedicating one day a week to each of her seven children. She loved decorating for the changing holidays, gardening, floral arranging, traveling, and entertaining, especially for Thanksgiving.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Schmitz; her son, James Patrick Schmitz; her brothers, Paul, Fred, Herb and Benno Schaefer; sister, Marc Perrin; and daughter-in-law, Carol Schmitz.

She is survived by her children, Sue (Jim) Schmitz, Adams, and her family, Michael Schmitz, Rochester, Minnesota, Heather Schmitz and her children, Simon, Owen, Amelia and Theo Smith, Rose Creek, Minnesota, Sarah Honeywell and her children, Oliver Ellis, Huxley and Webster Honeywell, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Isaac Schmitz, Hayfield, Minnesota, David and Julie Schmitz and their children, Mark Schmitz and Karen Viskupic and their son, Gus Schmitz, Boise, Idaho, Charlie Schmitz, Adams, and his children, Riley, Winona, Minnesota, and Peyton Schmitz, Adams, Hailey and Dave Woodfill and their children, Hudson and Linden Woodfill, Minneapolis, and Grace and Josh Leverington and their children, Eliza and Milo Leverington, Madison, Minnesota, Bob Schmitz, Jordan, Minnesota, Roger Schmitz, Minneapolis, Tom Schmitz, Preston, Minnesota, Mary and Mike Albrecht, Belle Plaine, Minnesota, and their daughter Hannah Schmitz, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Ann Viveros and Robert Reed, Minneapolis; her siblings, Vernon Schaefer, Roseville, Minnesota, Doreen Schaefer, Adams, Norbert and Linda Schaefer, Montgomery, Alabama, Rita and Dave Sheedy, Elko-New Market, Minnesota, Conrad and Judy Schaefer, Austin, Minnesota, Roger Schaefer, Albert Lea, Minnesota, Elizabeth and Harlan Smith, Park Forest, Illinois, and Sandy Schaefer, Albert Lea; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Blessed be her memory.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Swaminatha Pothireddy officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday at the Adams Funeral Home and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at the Adams Funeral Home.

Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 8 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

James Eldon Hosp, 66, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, May 5, 2018. He was surrounded by his family and fought bravely to his last breath.

Jim was born on May 15, 1951, in Joplin, Missouri, to Robert and Mildred (Micky) Hosp as the little brother of Bobby and Carolyn. The family was later joined by Peggy Hosp and Jim’s little sister, Tracey. He lived for many years in Minneapolis, Minnesota, graduating with the class of 1969 from Washburn High School, and playing for the school football and baseball teams, during which he and his teammates had some big wins and created life-long memories.

Jim, with Judy Martin, had four beloved children, Courtney, Lauren Jean and his boys, Collin and Tyler. He loved them deeply and every decision he made in the last 31 years was to help, guide, and support them. He is survived by them and his three precious grandchildren, Oliver and Felix Christenson, and Nuala Hosp Ni Mhorain, who were lucky to be told lively and creative home-made stories and build elaborate K’nex race tracks.

Jim lived the life of a dreamer and an innovator. He was always thinking up ways to make the world an easier or more lovely place. He owned a photography studio, giving budding artists a chance to display their work, sealed windows of those living in Austin, Minnesota, to help save on their energy bills, and worked many sales roles where he shone in customer service and work ethic. However, his life was truly never about his career, it was about loving others deeply, caring for his family, and training, cuddling and loving his late golden retrievers, Nala and Benny. He was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan from their inception and his one true regret may have been never seeing them win the Super Bowl.

He had such an impact on his world in the Cities, Austin and his true home, Lowell, Arkansas, where he surrounded himself with a wonderful community and finally pursued his dreams of living on the edge of a golf course and going out every day to perfect his game and winning many of its weekly and annual season end tournaments. His adopted family there will carry the sweet memories of his kindness and transformation with them.

He is preceded in death by his father, Bob; his mother, Micky; and his brother, Bobby.

There will be a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium in Austin, Minnesota. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Lung Association (http://www.lung.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/)

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 8 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Virginia Claire Larsen, 81, passed away on May 5, 2018.

Every life story can be told through facts. Here are some facts about Virginia Lindbloom-Larsen.

Virginia Claire Larsen was born in Kenmare, North Dakota, on March 13, 1937, to Karl Bernhardt “Bernie” Larsen and Florence Edith Larson Larsen. Her paternal relatives were Danes who immigrated to North Dakota, while her maternal relatives were Danes who settled in the Council Bluffs–Omaha area. At the age of seven, her mother died prematurely; the grief from this loss was only assuaged four years later when her father married again – a woman also named Virginia, who became a second mother to young Virginia and her brother Larry. In the next few years, three babies, Dan, John and Richard, were born, making Virginia the big sister to a pack of boys.

The Larsen family moved from Kenmare to Minot, North Dakota, in 1952. Virginia graduated from Minot High School in 1955 and from St. Olaf College with majors in English and French in 1959. During summer breaks from college, she worked as a reporter for the Minot Daily News and as a waitress on a Great Lakes vacation steamer.

After college, Virginia taught English for a year at the Martin-Luther-Schule in the village of Rimbach im Odenwald, Germany. She then spent nine months in Paris, working as an au pair for two families while she took classes at the Alliance Française. For the rest of the 1960s, Virginia taught French and German at the University of North Dakota, earned masters degrees from UND and the University of Wisconsin in French and German, and was briefly married to the artist Douglas Kinsey before returning to Rimbach to teach English and French.

In 1970, she accepted a position as an instructor of French and German at Austin State Junior College in southern Minnesota. Throughout her teaching career, Virginia proved an effective and transformative teacher for the students in her classes and won an award for Outstanding Faculty Member in 1990. When she wasn’t in the classroom, she was often planning or taking international trips, experiencing other cultures and immersing herself in foreign languages, and fed an insatiable curiosity about the world and the people in it. After 27 years teaching foreign languages, public speaking and interpersonal communication — with a year of leave spent in Madagascar in 1982–83 — Virginia retired in 1997 from what was then called Riverland Community College.

A few months after retiring, Virginia was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Despite decades of treatment and interventions, she refused to call it a “battle” until she neared the end. More than anything, she demonstrated how to live with cancer. In the decades of her retirement, she resettled her mother in Austin, Minnesota, providing loving care during her decline from Alzheimer’s. She continued her advocacy work, fighting for the rights of sexual minorities, quality of life for developmentally delayed adults and accessibility for the physically handicapped – work that was acknowledged with an award by the Austin Human Rights Commission in 2003. In 2006, her reputation as a mentor and a public resource led to a life-changing meeting. Virginia married Kirsten Lindbloom in 2008. In Virginia’s last decade, she and Kirsten created new adventures together in their shared zest for travel, entertaining and community service.

During her final years, Virginia poured much of her energy into translating a book of German stories, “Shadow Time,” calling its publication “one of the greatest accomplishments of my life.” She also published two books of personal essays, “The Book of Lurch” and “Saving Grace.” As her health became more challenging, her gifts as a writer blossomed; she leaves behind a partially completed memoir that will be released at a future date.

On May 5, 2018, Virginia came to the end of herself with grace and dignity, her wife by her side, her life an example to everyone lucky enough to have known her.

Every life story can be told through facts. However, a more complete life story unfolds through nuances, details, lessons imparted. Virginia’s lessons to her friends and family included:

• Treat every public waiting room like a free lending library, where you can take some magazines home and leave new ones behind;

• Dig your hands into the dirt. Plant seeds;

• If a friend calls at 10:30 p.m. crying, saying she thinks she needs to go to the emergency room, tell her, “I’ll be there in two minutes;”

Virginia is predeceased by her parents; her stepmother; and her brothers, Richard and Larry. She is survived by her wife, Kirsten; her brothers, Dan and John (Debbie); her niece, Maren (husband Dan, children, Austin and Ryan Eby, Andrew, Henry, and Appy Townsend); her nephew, Jason (wife Michele, children, Meghan and Nicholas); her sisters-in-law, Carol Larsen and Erika Pearson (husband, Chris, children, Jayme and Dustin); and hundreds of loving friends who will forever miss her dry wit at the dinner table.

Friends and family are invited from 7-10 p.m. on Friday, May 11, to the Austin Area Commission for the Arts (300 N. Main St.) for a time of sharing and storytelling — a kind of Midwestern Danish wake. There will not be a formal visitation as Virginia has donated her body to the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. Her memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, at the Austin Congregational UCC (1910 Third Ave. NW).

Memorial gifts may be sent to the Austin Congregational UCC, earmarked for the Spirituality Center. Because Gin valued the work of the Center tremendously and took great delight in its birth, we would like her legacy to support the future growth of this community resource.

(Redacted)
SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 8 MAY 2018
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 9 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Scott H. Easton, age 55, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, passed away Monday, May 7, 2018 at Prairie Manor Care Center in Blooming Prairie.

Scott Harlan Easton was born May 18, 1962 in Owatonna, Minnesota to Harlan and Marjorie (Loew) Easton. He graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1981. Scott then attended college at the Vocational Technical School in Faribault, Minnesota. On June 13, 1998, he married Julie Adams at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Brownsdale, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Blooming Prairie and together had 2 sons. Scott worked for Viracon in Owatonna for 20 years and also owned and operated S & J Lawn Care.

He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. Scott was a great Minnesota Vikings fan and loved bald eagles, camping and grilling, he would cook out year round. He also enjoyed doing lawn work and building his business, but most of all Scott enjoyed time spent with his family. Scott will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife Julie Easton of Blooming Prairie, MN; sons Travis Easton of Blooming Prairie, MN, Jeffrey Easton of Blooming Prairie, MN; brothers, Robert (Jane) Easton of Albert Lea, MN, Rod (Tess) Koster of Elysian, MN; sisters, Connie Trihus of Blooming Prairie, MN, Rita (David) Braaten of Owatonna, MN; mother-in-law and father-in-law, John and Doreen Adams of Austin, MN; sisters-in-law, Tammy (Steve) Pfeifer of Austin, MN, Laurie (Kerry) Dinges of Ness City, KS; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harlan and Marjorie Easton, brothers, Richard and Ronnie Koster, and sister, Carole Stish.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, MN, with Pastor Heidi Heimgartner officiating. Visitation will be held at the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 11, 2018, and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Interment will be in Red Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Austin, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. Services are prearranged and performed by Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 9 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

November 15, 1930 - May 6, 2018

James Herold, age 87, of Brownsville, Minnesota, and formerly of Cresco, Iowa, died Sunday, May 6, 2018 at Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 P.M. on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco with the wake service at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Parish on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation continuing for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery Cresco, IA.

James Albert Herold was born on November 15, 1930 in Brookings, South Dakota. He was the son of Albert and Mary (Thielen) Herold. He graduated from Assumption High School with the class of 1948. Two years after graduation from high school, James enlisted with the United States Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1954. On June 18, 1955, James married Janice Miller at Assumption Catholic Church. To this union 4 children were born Thomas, David, Patricia, and Daniel. Janice passed away in 1986. James married Evelyn Nielsen January 1988. Evelyn passed away in 2012.

James worked at the Puritan Locker in Cresco before becoming a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. He walked about 17 miles a day for 30 years delivering mail for the postal service.

James was very active at Assumption Church as a Eucharistic Minister and member of Knights of Columbus. Outside of his church volunteering he was past commander for the Cresco American Legion. James liked trying his luck at the casino, bowling, cards, and fishing. He enjoyed watching and cheering on the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

James is survived by his children David (Sheri) Herold of Cresco, IA, Patricia Rosendahl of Cresco, IA, Daniel (Molly) Herold of Rochester, MN, and daughter in law Judy Herold of Rochester, MN; step children John (Ruth) Nielsen of Bruno, MN; Wilma (Dave) Schoh of Caledonia, MN; Paul (Connie) Nielsen of Brownsville, MN; Karen Nielsen of Decorah, IA; 10 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; 7 step grandchildren; 9 step great-grandchildren; 3 step great-great-grandchildren. In addition, James is survived by 2 sisters; Florence Powers and Agatha Sistrunk and one brother Melvin Herold.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Janice in 1986, wife Evelyn in 2012, a son Thomas in 2015; brother Edwin “Penny” and sisters Mildred Schnoor, Velma Leigh, Marjorie Heaston and Gertrude Jensen.

SOURCE: Hindt Funeral Home website

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Marian Janell Ketchum

November 16, 1939 - May 03, 2018

Marian Janell Ketchum, 78, passed away on Thursday, May 3, 2018, surrounded by family at her home in Dodge Center, Minnesota.

Marian Bjork was born to Elmer and Ella (Mathison) Bjork in Waltham, Minnesota, on November 16, 1939. After marrying her high school sweetheart, Bill Ketchum on April 9, 1960, they went on to raise a family of four. Kim (Dan) Bowe, Hayfield, Minnesota; Kari (Troy) Fate, Hayfield, MN; Kelly (Ron) Brannick, Dodge Center, Minnesota, and Matt (Amy) Ketchum, Burnsville, Minnesota. They have 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Nothing in life was more important to Marian than this family. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Marian also had an unbending love of our almighty God and always told Bill that when you can't find proof, that is when you rely on faith. She also loved her church family at Faith Lutheran Church in Dodge Center, MN. Marian crocheted many prayer shawls and baptismal blankets throughout the years and a number of folks enjoyed the comfort of her afghans. She wanted me to make sure that people knew she out fished her husband on numerous occasions!

Marian was preceded death by her parents, Elmer and Ella Bjork; brothers, Ron and John Bjork and sisters, Elaine Nordstrom and Lavonne Sunness.

The family wishes to extend a thank you to Season's Hospice (especially to Sue, Lucy, Becky and Nicole) for their outstanding support and guidance during Marian's illness. A shout also must go out to the staff at Mayo Clinic in Kasson for giving Marian such great care. A special thanks to all of you that shared your prayers, phone calls, visits and food with us over the last few months. And lastly, what would we have done and how could Marian, Bill and family have handled the past months without the support of our wonderful Pastor Barb. You have been a blessing in our lives, Pastor!

The memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at the Faith Lutheran Church, 308 2nd Street NW in Dodge Center, MN, with Reverend Barbara Streed officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, at the church. The family asks that instead of flowers, any donations be made in Marians' name to either Faith Lutheran Church or Season's Hospice. Inurnment of her cremains will be in Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center. Czaplewski Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 25 South Street SW in Dodge Center assisted with the arrangements.

www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com

SOURCE: Czaplewski Funeral Home website

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

December 29, 1929 - May 06, 2018

Marie Elizabeth Severson, 88, passed away on May 6, 2018, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield.

Marie was born on December 29, 1929, the daughter of Oscar and Margaret (Tobar) Amundson in Austin, MN. She graduated from St. Augustine High School in Austin, MN. Marie was united in marriage to Victor Severson on April 7, 1951, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin, MN. She was a devoted wife and homemaker. Although she held various jobs over the years, her most important job was being a mother and grandmother. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, singing and embroidering.

Marie is survived by her children, Cheryl (Bob) Lane, Chatfield, MN; Sheila (Roy) Erickson, Chatfield, MN; Candace (Michael) Miller, Wilmington, NC; Jean (Joel) Dahlen, Hayfield, MN; Jane (Dale) Schlichting, Hayfield, MN; Eric (Cathy) Severson, Kasson, MN; Rodney (Cindy) Severson, Kasson, MN; 19 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; brother, Jerry Amundson, Hayfield, MN; Sister, Theresa Swank, Austin, MN; sisters-in-law, Lois Burns and Karen Severson, both of Hayfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Victor in 2006; and daughter, Christine in 2011.

Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 501 2nd Street NW in Hayfield and one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Thursday evening.

The funeral mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 11, 2018, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 150 2nd Street NE in Hayfield with Father Thomas Niehaus celebrating. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery in Hayfield. The family prefers memorials to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

SOURCE: Czaplewski Funeral Home website
www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 9 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Constance “Conni” Reed

Constance “Conni” Reed, 85, of Longmont, Colorado, passed away on March 1, 2018.

Conni was born Dec. 9, 1932, in Austin, Minnesota, to Clarence and Loretta Keller. She graduated from Austin High School in 1951.

On June 27, 1955, she married Robert Reed and they moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. She graduated from the University of Minnesota and was a teacher.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Reed, Longmont; daughter, Mary Reed (Perry Smith), Monticello, Minnesota; sister, Mary Kellogg; nieces, Barb Lysne (Darwin) and Lisa Robinson (Ward); nephew, David Kellogg; other relatives and many friends.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 10 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Ronald Dean Heard Sr., 61, of Faribault, Minnesota, died on Monday, May 7, 2018, at his home.

Ronald Dean, was born on June 22, 1956, in Austin, Minnesota, the son of Gerald Heard and Beverly (Davis) Schultz. In 1974, he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. He enjoyed creating artwork and playing and singing with his guitar.

He is survived by two children, Jenny (and Rodney) McGee of Shakopee, Minnesota, and Ronald, Jr. (and Stephanie Pineda) of Elgin, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Raven, Jaden and Neavah McGee, Gabriel Pineda, Carmen Heard and Ronald Heard III; great-grandson, Jace McGee; mother, Beverly (and Curtis) Schultz of Owatonna, Minnesota; father, Jerry (and Sue) Heard of Austin; two brothers, Kevin (and Sue) Heard and Dr. Garry (and Mary Jo) Heard, all of Austin; the mother of his children, Lou Heard of Lakeville, Minnesota; nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at St. Luke’s Church in Faribault with the Rev. Greg Purchla officiating. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church. Arrangements are being completed by the Boldt Funeral Home in Faribault. Visit boldtfuneralhome.com for information and guest book.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 11 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Betty Louise Dockham, 88, of Lexington, Minnesota, loving wife, mom, grandma, great-grandma, and sister passed away peacefully on May 9, 2018, at Birchwood Care Center and is now in the arms of our Lord and her husband.

Betty grew up in Austin, Minnesota. She married the love of her life, Doc, on December 9, 1950. Betty was a military wife and homemaker throughout their marriage. She loved spending time with her family and also loved country western music.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Doc; sons, Ronald and Raymond; granddaughter, Emily; and sisters, Darlene and Leona. She is survived by her sons, Dale, David, Adolph and Charles; daughter, Sandra; and brother, Fred.

A memorial service for Betty and Doc will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 2, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 31075 Genesis Ave., Stacy, Minnesota. There will be a private family interment. Roberts Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald

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Betty Louise Dockham

March 21, 1930 - May 9, 2018

Age 88, of Lexington, Minnesota. Loving Wife, Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Sister, passed away peacefully at Birchwood Care Center on May 9, 2018, she is now in the arms of our Lord and her husband. Betty grew up in Austin, Minnesota. She married the love of her life, Doc, on December 9, 1950. Betty was a military wife and homemaker throughout their marriage. She loved spending time with her family and also loved country western music.

Preceded in death by husband, Doc; sons, Ronald & Raymond; granddaughter, Emily; sisters, Darlene & Leona. Survived by sons, Dale, David, Adolph & Charles; daughter, Sandra; brother, Fred.

Memorial service for Betty & Doc 2 PM Saturday, June 2nd at St. John's Lutheran Church, 31075 Genesis Ave., Stacy. Private family interment.

SOURCE: Roberts Family Funeral Home website

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Della Chinander, 103, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday morning, May 12, 2018, at Our House Assisted Living in Austin.

Services are pending with Worlein Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

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

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 14 MAY 2018

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Della Johanna (Deden) Chinander 1915-2018

Della J. Chinander, age 103 of Austin, Minnesota passed away peacefully, surrounded by her three loving daughters on Saturday morning, May 12, 2018, at Our House Assisted Living in Austin, Minnesota.

Della Johanna Deden was born January 24, 1915, in Red Wing, Minnesota, the daughter of Edward and Marietta (Mehrkens) Deden. She attended school in Hay Creek, Minnesota. On June 26, 1937, Della was united in marriage to Oris Chinander in Red Wing, Minnesota. Della was a long-time member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Austin and was an active member of the Hoe & Grow Garden Club for many years. She enjoyed traveling, knitting, playing cards and was an excellent cook. Oris died in 1977.

Survivors include her three daughters, Mary (Robert) Horejsh of Fitchburg, Wisconsin, Suzanne (Richard) Kraft of Lafayette, Colorado and Patricia (William) Schmidt of Austin; eight grandchildren, Douglas Horejsh, Christy Borud, Derek Horejsh, Timothy Kraft, Annie Kraft, Laura Qvale, Daniel Schmidt and Megan Larson; 16 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers and one sister.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Josh Johnson, officiating. Interment will be held at Grandview Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Wednesday.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home website

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral notice: Margaret Bellrichard, 84

Margaret Bellrichard, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday evening, May 11, 2018, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Marys Campus - Rochester.

Services are pending with Worlein Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

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

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 14 MAY 2018

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Obituary

Margaret Bellrichard, age 84 of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday evening, May 11, 2018, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Marys Campus in Rochester, Minnesota.

Margaret Helen Ann Olswold was born at home in Lyle, Minnesota on November 12, 1933, the daughter of Christian and Mina (Gunderson) Olswold. She attended school in Lyle through the third grade and completed her education in Austin, graduating from Austin High School in 1951. Following graduation, Margaret worked at Northwestern National Bank and then as a clerk for the Geo A. Hormel Company.

On March 7, 1953, she was united in marriage to Dale Irving Bellrichard in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. The couple made their home and raised their family in Austin. In addition to caring for her five children, Margaret was the office manager for her husband’s business, Bellrichard Oil Company until 1997. She enjoyed meeting her friends in their coffee clubs and playing games with her children and grandchildren. Dale died on October 22, 2008. Margaret continued to make her home in Austin, entering the Sacred Heart Care Center in 2013. She was a long-time member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Survivors include her five children, Larry (Cindy) Bellrichard of Austin, Craig (Barb) Bellrichard of Burnsville, Barbara (Mike) Raso of Austin, Karen Bellrichard of Austin and Jason Bellrichard of Austin; eight grandchildren, Kyra (Corey) Bellrichard, Paul (Yun) Bellrichard, Dan (Liza) Bellrichard, Aaron (Hanh) Bellrichard, Katie (Mario) Carter, Matthew Raso, Joseph Raso and Brian (Heather) Bellrichard; nine great-grandchildren, Lulu, Poppy, Solveig, Leo, Mia, Markus, Rylee, Alexis and Alivia; one brother, Carlton “Jim” Olswold of Austin and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dale and two brothers, Roland and Harland Olswold.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 26th, 2018, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, Minnesota. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 26th at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com. The Bellrichard family would like to thank the staff at Sacred Heart Care Center’s Assisted Living for the wonderful care they gave to Margaret during her time there.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 16 MAY 2018
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 22 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Pending notice: Florence M. McDowell, 98

Florence M. McDowell, 98, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, May 11, 2018, at Ebenezer Ridges Care Center in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Arrangements are pending with Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 14 MAY 2018

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Florence May McDowell

January 28, 1920 - May 11, 2018

Florence May McDowell, age 98, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Friday, May 11, 2018 at Ebenezer Ridges Care Center in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Florence was born January 28, 1920 at Mora, Minnesota to Henry and Carrie (Lyke) Long. She moved to Preston, Minnesota with her parents in 1929 and graduated from Preston High School in 1939. She worked for Northwestern Telephone as an operator.

On September 4th, 1941, she married Harold McDowell of Preston, Minnesota. She moved to California, Alaska and then to Columbus, Georgia during WW II to be with her husband. Florence and Harold returned to Preston after the war and resided there until 1959. They moved to Austin, Minnesota where she became a homemaker and spent time raising their three sons.

Florence remained in Austin after Harold’s passing in 1998. She stayed in her home until June 2013. She then sold her home and moved to an assisted living facility in Burnsville, Minnesota to be near her son. She made many new friends and enjoyed multiple outings at Arbors at Ridges. In 2016, Florence moved to Ebenezer Ridges Care Center in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Florence enjoyed family gatherings, traveling, and reading hundreds of books. She loved the summer sun and would spend many hours watching and listening to the many birds around her.

She is now on her final traveling adventure to heaven to be with her Lord and family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold McDowell; son, Charles; her parents; three brothers and three sisters.

Florence is survived by her two sons, Allen McDowell, Austin, MN and Paul (Nancy) McDowell, Eagan, MN; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 18th at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Reverend Dale Christiansen officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour before the service on Friday.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 16 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

April 15, 1954 - May 13, 2018

CLEAR LAKE, IOWA - Ricki Dean Lueders, 64, of Clear Lake, passed away Sunday, May 13, 2018.

A funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 18, 2018 at the First Reformed Church, 620 2nd Street, Meservey, with Rev. Rodney Meester officiating. Burial will be in the Meservey Cemetery.

A visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2018 at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 North 4th Street, Clear Lake.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Reformed Church.

Rick was born April 15, 1954 in Austin, Minnesota, the son of Leonard and Phyllis Lueders. He graduated from Austin High School in Austin, Minnesota. Following high school, he went to Technical School in Austin. Rick moved to Clear Lake to work at Sperry Univac, which later became Unisys.

Rick met Linda at the Harborage in Clear Lake, and they were united in marriage July 12, 1980. To this union two girls were born, Nicole and Allison.

Rick faithfully attended the First Reformed Church, Meservey, and served on the Consistory.

He loved to travel to National Parks throughout the years, camping and taking pictures of his family along the way. Rick enjoyed golfing, riding his motorcycle and walking his dog around Clear Lake. Rick treasured his family and had a special connection with his grandchildren.

Rick is survived by his wife, Linda Lueders of Clear Lake; two daughters, Nicole (Matthew) Peterson of Ankeny and Allison (Dustin) Ward of Garner; four grandchildren, Rowen, Ethan, Levi Peterson and Christian Ward; father, Leonard Lueders of Austin, MN; two sisters, Kathy Hines and Jeanne Lueders of Austin, MN; brother, Ron (Mary Ann) Lueders of Austin, MN; mother-in-law, Elvira Kuhlers of Merservey, along with many extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Lueders; father in-law, Clarence Kuhlers; brother in-law, Keith Hines.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 4th Street, Clear Lake. 641-357-2193. Colonialchaels.com

SOURCE: Mason City Globe Gazette, 16 MAY 2018
Also see: Austin Daily Herald, 24 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Bill Sheely, 81, passed away on Nov. 17, 2017, in Palm Bay, Florida.

Bill was the original builder, co-owner and co-manager of Beaver Trails, running it for 31 years. He was also a former Boy Scout leader in Austin, Minnesota, school bus driver for Southland Schools, and past president of Historic Bluff Country, NFO, and his HOA in Dover, Pennsylvania.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 21, at Beaver Trails Campground, now known as Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Beaver Trails. Casual dress is requested. Come and bring your stories to share.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 16 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Beverly Elaine Spieker, 78, passed away Tuesday, March 6, 2018, at Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree, Colorado, from complications of pneumonia.

Beverly was born Sept. 24, 1939, in Adrian, Minnesota, to James Douglas and Paula Emma (Weise) Baird. She grew up on a farm outside of Harris, Iowa, and graduated high school in 1957.

Beverly married Wilbert John Spieker on Aug. 9, 1957, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. After their marriage, they lived in Austin, Minnesota, and had two children, Craig and Debra. They both retired and moved to Castle Rock, Colorado in 1997, where their children lived, and they enjoyed watching their granddaughters grow to be beautiful young ladies and have children of their own.

Beverly worked for the Austin Public School District as a secretary for over 30 years. She loved camping, doll making, sewing, cooking and vacationing with her family and many, many dear friends. Beverly loved being a wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Beverly was a person of God and always had an open heart and kind words for everyone. She always found the good in everyone she met. She was a nurturing soul and took care of everyone in their time of need, including taking care of her husband for many, many years as he struggled with Parkinson’s. After her husband passed away, Beverly struggled with her own illnesses and was a dialysis patient for over six years. She never complained about her dialysis, she just said it was something she had to do if she wanted to enjoy life.

Beverly is survived by her son, Craig (Caralee) Spieker, Castle Rock; daughter, Debra Spieker, Castle Rock; granddaughters, Ashley (Josh) Jessup, Calhan, Colorado, and Alyssa (Victor) Silva, Kiowa, Colorado; great-grandchildren, Jameson, Sophia and Wyatt; brother, Donald (Elaine) Baird; sister, Maxine Meyer; brothers and sisters-in-law; Sylvia Baddgor, Sena (Harlan) Berkness, Viola (Duane) Weerts, John (Elaine) Spieker and Margaret Spieker; many nieces and nephews; and special family friends, Pat Purvis, Tia McGuire and Stacy Reuter.

Beverly was proceeded in death by her husband of 52 years, Wilbert; parents; and brothers and sisters-in-laws; Kenneth Meyer, John and Francis Moret, Norman Baddgor, Raymond Spieker, George Spieker and Patsy Galema.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Austin with Pastor Michael Olmsted officiating.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald, 16 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

June 05, 1930 - May 11, 2018

Harold Duane Berge, 87, of Grand Meadow, Minnesota, died Friday, May 11, 2018 at Grand Meadow Health Care Center.

Harold was born on June 5, 1930 in Kasson, Minnesota to Clifford and Viola (Schutz) Berge. He worked as a custodian all of his life, retiring from Motorola in 1997. He lived in Arizona for many years, returning to Minnesota in 2011 to be closer to family.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Richard and Donald.

He is survived by his brother: Dennis (Kathleen) Berge, Grand Meadow, MN; many nieces and nephews; and his aunt: ElRose Milverstedt, Owatonna, MN.

Private family services were held.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Marlin E. Miner, 75, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2018, of respiratory failure at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin, Minnesota, with his wife Jan and kids by his side.

Marlin Everett Miner was born Aug. 3, 1942, at his home in Hayfield, Minnesota, to Everett and Harriet (Boe) Miner. He was a 1960 graduate of Blooming Prairie High School. On Sept. 8, 1968, Marlin was united in marriage to Janice Elaine Lebakken at the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. The couple made their home in Blooming Prairie and together had four children. He was a seed corn dealer for many years and also farmed and milked cows. Along with farming, Marlin worked for the Central Co-op in the LP department. In 1970, Marlin started Miner Salvage, a snowmobile salvage yard and repair shop. Miner Salvage evolved into Miner’s Outdoor, where Marlin was not only an owner, but where he worked part-time after his retirement from Central Co-op in 2005.

In 2010, Marlin suffered a stroke, and has been home with his wife since. Marlin played an important role in his grandkids lives. He was a very smart man; Marlin would always have an answer to any question you would have asked him and was always right. He was a man of many words and knew just about everyone. Marlin had a love for Nascar Racing; every year he would travel to the Daytona 500 in the “Toter.” He was a lifelong member of the Blooming Prairie area and of First Lutheran Church. Marlin will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Janice Miner of Blooming Prairie; children, Tammy Miner-Gruidl of Lakeville, Minnesota, Douglas (Kristi) Miner of Blooming Prairie, Lisa (Wes Gresham) Reese of Blooming Prairie and Dan (Becky) Miner of Blooming Prairie; grandchildren, Alex Gruidl (30), Audrey Jo Gruidl (25), Elizabeth Miner (12), Derek Miner (8), Alexa Miner (5), Maverick Miner (3), Marnie Reese (19), Raylee Miner (8) and Elaina Miner (10 months); brother, Roger (Beverly) Miner of Brownsdale, Minnesota; sister, Linda (Steve) Lysne of Colby, Wisconsin; son, Scott Miner of Milton, Georgia; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Harriet Miner; and his aunts and uncles.

A funeral service for Marlin will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie with Heidi Heimgartner officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2018, at the Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church. Interment will be in First Lutheran Cemetery in Blooming Prairie. Family prefers memorials to the Blooming Prairie Veteran’s Memorial, Blooming Prairie Fire Department, Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club, or recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein Blooming Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website - 17 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral Notice: Andrew C. Davidson, 23^**

Andrew C. Davidson, 23, of Austin, Minnesota, died in a car accident on Tuesday, May 15, 2018, near Harmony, Minnesota.

Service: A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at Grace Baptist Church, 1700 West Oakland Ave. in Austin, with Pastors Dan Mielke and Devin Larsen officiating.

Visitation: Friends may greet the family for one hour before the service on Saturday at the church.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website - 17 MAY 2018

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OBITUARY--

Andrew Christopher Davidson, 23^**

Andrew C. Davidson, 23, of Austin, Minnesota, died in a car accident on Tuesday, May 15, 2018, near Harmony, Minnesota.

Andrew Christopher was born Sept. 3, 1993^**, in St. Peter, Minnesota. Andrew and his brother, Dan, were adopted by Joe and Lisa Davidson. They grew up in several communities in Southeastern Minnesota. Andy graduated from Lyle High School and entered the U.S. Army and trained to be a battlefield medic, but an injury caused his early discharge.

Andy was an avid fisherman and he also enjoyed long boarding and playing Frisbee golf.

He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Tori Rose Grover; and his grandparents.

Andy is survived by his daughter, Ariana Rose Gusa; mother, Lisa Davidson and Joe Tointon, Rochester, Minnesota; father and stepmother, Joseph and Mary Davidson, Austin; brother, Daniel Davidson, Austin; maternal grandfather, Lawerence Wampler, Rochester; half siblings, Monica (Eric) Pinkava, Albert Lea, Minnesota, Michelle (Corey) Griggs, Molalla, Oregon, and Alex Wallace, Minneapolis, Minnesota; aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at Grace Baptist Church 1700 West Oakland Ave. in Austin, with Pastors Dan Mielke and Devin Larsen officiating. Friends may greet the family for one hour before the service on Saturday at the church. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website - 18 MAY 2018

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^**NOTE: There is a problem with the dates and ages. 1993 plus 23 is 2016 not 2017 which would have been his last birthday. Both the obits on the Herald and on the Clasen-Jordan website said "1993" and age "23" but the funeral home website also said the following:
"September 03, 1994 - May 15, 2018"

©2018 MNGenWeb

 

Pending notice: Bernice A. Wiese, 94

Bernice A. Wiese, 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, May 15, 2018, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Society in Austin.

Arrangements are pending with Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

SOURCE: Austin Daily Herald website - 17 MAY 2018

January 26, 1924 - May 15, 2018

Bernice A. Wiese, 94 of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, May 15, 2018, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Society in Austin.

Arrangements are pending.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home website, 18 MAY 2018

©2018 MNGenWeb