Ann Margret Zerkel, age 92, of Austin, died Friday, May 25, 2007 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Ann was born May 11, 1915 in Armstrong, Minnesota, to Clarence and Jennie (McKenzie) Zerkel. She grew up on a farm near there and attended school in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Upon moving to Austin she attended Columbus School at St. Augustine Parish. She spent 47 years in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she and her sister Veronica operated a home for mentally challenged women and worked at a large handicap residence as a med nurse. Here she became a member of the secular order of St. Francis. In her later years she became an in-home care giver.

In 1992 Ann returned to Austin. She was a published author and was known as the Poet Laureate of Dobbins Creek. Ann was a colorful story teller full of energy, enthusiasm, charm and wit.

Survivors include her cousin, Mary Holmes, as well as extended family: Jere, Betty, Larry, Gary, Dolores, Zeb.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Frances and Veronica "Vite."

A funeral mass was celebrated on Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church, with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Burial was in Union Cemetery in Maplewood.

 

©2007 MNGenWeb

GRAND MEADOW, MINN. -- The funeral for Kenneth Carl Ziemer will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday in the First Presbyterian Church in Hayfield, with the Rev. Charlie Talcott officiating. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, Hayfield.

Mr. Ziemer, 95, died Saturday (Sept. 23, 2006) at Grand Meadow Care Center in Grand Meadow. He had lived in Grand Meadow since 2001, first in the Meadows Assisted Living facility and then in Grand Meadow Care Center.

Born July 25, 1911, in Waltham, he attended Waltham Elementary School and graduated from Hayfield High School in 1929. He attended Iowa State College in Ames, Iowa, and later started farming.

On June 12, 1938, he married Caroline Hillier at the Austin Methodist Episcopal Church. He farmed on the Ziemer Century farm one mile north of Waltham on Minnesota Highway 56. For 40 years, his farm was recognized as the farm on the curve with the orange purebred Guernsey cattle; at times with more than 100 head around the barn and the pasture. He and his family exhibited at many county and state fairs. Over the years, his cattle were sold as breeding stock in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota and Canada.

Survivors include a son, Edward of Grand Meadow; a daughter, Martha Ziehwein of Burnsville, Minn.; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Lynn (Kathryn) of Gilbertsville, Ky., and Charles (Delores) of Minneapolis. He was preceded in death by his wife, two brothers and a sister.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

The family prefers memorials to the Hayfield Presbyterian Church or Boy's Town.

Czaplewski Family Funeral Home of Hayfield is in charge of arrangements.

 

Robert W. Zika, age 79, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, May 19, 2007, at his home.

Robert was born on February 24, 1928 to Joseph and Eleanor (Traxler) Zika, at New Prague Hospital. He grew up in LeCenter, Minnesota, where he attended St. Mary's School and graduated from LeCenter High School in 1946. After serving in the US Army from June 27, 1946 until Oct. 27, 1947, Bob attended Mankato State Teacher's College for a year.

He married Adeline Schroeder on June 6, 1949 in Jordan, Minnesota. They made their home in St. Peter, Minnesota, where Bob worked for the Department of Natural Resources. Bob went to work for Austin Office Supply in the early 1950s when they moved to Austin.

He was an avid reader, and was up on about every current event. A member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Bob served on the finance committee and school board. He also belonged to American Legion and the VFW.

Survivors include his wife, Adeline of Austin; his three sons: David (Lisa) Zika of Waseca, Minnesota; Daniel (Sharon) Zika of International Falls, Minnesota; Robert (Mary) Zika of Durand, Wisconsin; his nine grandchildren: Marc (Shannon), Katie, Luke (Laura), and Anne Zika; Sarah (Garrett) Hendrickson; Jacob (Katie), Elizabeth, Michael and Jessica Zika; and his two great-grandchildren, Macy and Sean Zika.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eleanor and Joseph Zika; by a brother, Edward; and by a sister-in-law, Mildred.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 25, 2007 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin, with Rev. Daniel Provost officiating. Military honors were by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

The Worlein Funeral Home, in Austin, was in charge of arrangements.

 

©2007 MNGenWeb

Birth: Aug. 8, 1911
Death: Dec. 19, 1997

SPRING VALLEY, MINN -- The funeral for Ruth E. Shephard will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Spring Valley with the Rev. Jon Olson officiating. There will be a graveside service at 3 p.m. at St. Finbarr Cemetery in Grand Meadow.

Mrs. Shephard, 86, of St. Paul and formerly of Spring Valley died Friday, Dec. 19, 1997 at St. Joseph's Hospice in St. Paul.

Ruth Zimmer was born Aug. 8, 1911, in Wykoff. She married Ralph Johanns on Feb. 2, 1932. He died in October 1966. She married Wendell Shephard on June 10, 1977, and he died in February 1995. She was a bookkeeper for Donavon Construction. After her retirement, she lived in the Bradenton, Fla., area for 27 years.

Survivors include one son, Chuck Johanns of South St. Paul; one step-son, Roy Shephard of Mankato; one step-daughter, Patsy Moon of Fond du Lac, Wis.; four grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and 10 step-great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by two sisters and one brothers.

Friends may call from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service Tuesday at the church. Hind Hutchings Funeral Home of Spring Valley is in charge of arrangments.

 

Ella Gnocchi, age 88, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, June 16, 2007 at Sacred Heart Care Center where she was a resident.

Ella Josephine Cerny was born on September 9, 1918 in St. Ansgar, Iowa, to John and Lillian (Suchy) Cerny. She attended public schools in Iowa and in Austin. She was baptized and confirmed at the First United Methodist Church.

On January 28, 1938 she was united in marriage to Herman Gnocchi at the Little Brown Church at Nashua, Iowa.

Herman and Ella had five children, four girls and one boy, Patricia, H. John, Lillian, Bonnie and Christine. They lived for three years in Richmond, California, during which time Ella worked in the shipyards as an electrician. They moved back to Austin in 1946 where Ella made her home until her death.

In 1960 she started work at Comforcare Nursing Home. She was a devoted Nurse's Assistant there for 23 years until her retirement in 1983.

Survivors include her daughter, Patricia Keeney, Santa Clara, California; son, H. John Gnocchi, Pleasanton, California; her daughter, Lillian (David) Waller, Austin; her daughter, Bonita Sims, Klamath Falls, Oregon; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Irene (George) Anderson, Coon Rapids, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman; daughter, Christine; parents; one brother and four sisters.

Graveside services were held on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at Grandview Cemetery, rural Austin, with Rev. Pat Toschak officiating.

The honorary casket bearers were: Greg Woodbury, Alex Sims, Grant Sims, Eric Hanson, Brent Hanson and Jeremy Quindt. The casket bearers were: Michael Woodbury, Rollie Kamp, Kenny Ree, David Waller, Tom Waller and David Quindt.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 

Guy McAlister, age 93, of Austin, died Friday evening, June 15, 2007, at Adams Health Care Center in Adams.

He was born April 27, 1914 to Charles M. and Mary (Nellie Brown) McAlister in Chatfield, Minn. Guy attended school in Stewartville. He served in the Army from 1942 to 1945. He had attended Army reunions since the 1970s and enjoyed the friendship of his fellow veterans. On July 26, 1945, Guy was united in marriage to Adeline Hauglum in Austin. They made their home in Austin, where Guy worked for Geo. A. Hormel & Company for over 40 years. He was one of the original workers at Hormel to work on the SPAM line in 1937. Adeline died on Jan. 9, 1997. Guy married Mary Ludvigson on Feb. 14, 1998 in Marion. They enjoyed traveling and socializing with their friends and family.

Guy was a longtime member of the Church of Christ in Austin and was active in his church. He especially enjoyed his Wednesday morning Bible study group. Guy was a member of the YMCA and a former member of the Board of Directors. He was a past member of the VFW Color Guard and a member of the American Legion. In his spare time Guy liked to fish, spending many years at Cross Lake.

Survivors include his wife, Mary McAlister of Austin; son, Brian McAlister of Austin; two daughters, Carol Hanson of Prescott Valley, Ariz. and Ann (Robert) Galligani of Farmington, Minn.; a step-daughter, Christene (Herb) Henricks of Rochester, Minn.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at Church of Christ in Austin with Rev. Stephen DeFor officiating. Interment with military honors by American Legion Post #91 and VFW Post #1216 will follow the service in Grandview Cemetery, Austin. A reception at the Church of Christ will follow the cemetery service. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, June 19 at the Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

The family prefers memorials directed to Austin YMCA youth activities or to the donor's choice.

 

Donald Williamson, 77, Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, June 16, 2007 at Prairie Manor Care Center.

Donald Duane Williamson was born on March 31, 1930 in Corning, Minnesota, to Joseph and Selma (Lee) Williamson. Donald attended country school in Corning until the 8th grade, when he had to go to work to help support the family. Donald lived in the Corning area all his life and was baptized and confirmed at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church.

He married Syrlene Turvold on April 23, 1950, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Donald worked as a bellhop at the Fox Hotel in Austin for 10 years and at the Hormel Foods Plant for 31 years. Donald was also a life-long farmer. Donald especially enjoyed helping his children and grandchildren.

Donald is survived by his wife, Syrlene Williamson of Austin; by his daughters and sons-in-Law, Vickie and Michael Wellenstein of Fort Washington, Wisconsin, Jean and Robin Constance of Farmington, Minnesota; by his sons and daughters-in-law, David and Lisa Williamson of Austin, Eric and Chairole Williamson of Austin; by 15 grandchildren; by 14 great-grandchildren; by his sisters: Sylvia Swenson of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Lorraine Turvold of Belvidere, Illinois; and by nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donald was preceded in death by his son Joseph Daryl Williamson in 1990; by his parents; by four brothers and by two sisters.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday morning, June 19, 2007 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, with Rev. Glenn L. Monson officiating. Interment was in the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Cemetery.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

 

Thaddeus 'Ted' Janocha, 85, of Austin, Minnesota, and formerly of North Chicago, Illinois, died on Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin.

Thaddeus R. Janocha was born on May 30, 1922 to Stanley and Catherine (Skora) Janocha, in Waukegan, Illinois. Ted served in the Army, 1252nd H & S Division during World War II. He was employed by US Steel and retired after 30 years.

Survivors include his children: Robert of North Chicago, Illinois; David of Aurora, Colorado; and Becky (Bruce) Huffer of Austin; his grandchildren: Dan (Joy) Huffer of Woodbury, Minnesota; Joe (Melissa) Huffer of New Brighton, Minnesota; and Sarah Huffer of Austin; his great-grandson Owen Huffer of Woodbury; his sisters: Ann Janocha, Mary Janocha, Theresa Belec, and Josephine Isaacson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Catherine; by his brothers, Joseph and Tony; by his brothers-in-law, Robert Belec and Arthur Isaacson.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 20, 2007 at Queen of Peace Church in Chicago, Illinois. Interment was at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, Illinois.

Robert Kroc, 62, of South Sioux City, Nebraska, died on Saturday, June 16, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Robert Maurice Kroc was born on January 16, 1945, in Austin, to Maurice (Bud) and Elinor (Kinney) Kroc. Robert served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to May 16, 1972.

He married Georgette M. Lowery on Feb. 1, 1975, in Sioux City, Iowa. He worked for the USDA as a food inspector for many years. He was a member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Sioux City, Iowa.

He is survived by his wife, Georgette of South Sioux City; by one son, Matt of South Sioux City; by his father, Maurice (Bud) Kroc of Austin; by two brothers, Gary Kroc of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Jim and his wife, Shelly Kroc of Austin; and by many family members in Minnesota.

Robert was preceded in death by his beloved son, Joshua on April 10, 2005; by his mother, Elinor Kroc; by his grandparents; and by a sister-in-law, Darlene Kroc.

Graveside services and inurnment were held on Friday, June 22, 2007, at St. Michael's Cemetery in Hartington, Nebraska, with Rev. John Pietramale officiating. Military graveside rites were conducted by the Hartington VFW Post #5283. Wintz Funeral Home of Hartington was in charge of arrangements.

 

George Dugan, 96, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, June 17, 2007 at Our House Memory Care. George Raymond Dugan was born on October 19, 1910, in Austin, to George W. and Emma (Baumgartel) Dugan. He graduated from Austin High School in 1928. George worked for the Hormel Company for 20 years. He owned and operated Dugan's Sport Shop from 1946 to 1976.

On Sept. 29, 1938 he married Edith Lorraine Heimsness. They were married for 63 years before Edith's death on September 18, 2001.˙

George was on the Austin City Council for 10 years, serving as Alderman and Alderman at large, was a director on the board of the Northwestern State Bank of Austin and was an amateur Baseball League Regional Commissioner in 1982. George served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, the Country Club, the Lions Club, the Izaak Walton League and St. Olaf Lutheran Men's Club. He actively participated in the Austin Jaycees and received the Outstanding Service Award in 1982, the Cedar Valley Conservation Club, the Cotillion Dance Club, the Eagles Club, the Elks Club, Meals on Wheels, the Moose Club, SCORE, the United Way, the Local Selective Service Board and bowling leagues for 65 years.

George became a member of the Austin Lions Club in 1949 and had perfect attendance through 1995. He organized and founded the Minnesota Lions Eye Bank in 1959 and served as a board member and chairman. He was the Austin Club president, District Governor and received the District Governor Extension Award, the International President's Award, the International Counselors 'Cap' Award in 1983, the Lions International 'Old Monarch' 10-year award, and the Lions International 'Old Monarch' 15-year award. George was inducted into the first District 5M Hall of Fame in 2004.˙

In 1958 he was awarded the 'Minnesota Sports Champion' Award from the Minnesota Statehood Centennial Commission and in 1982 the Mower County's Outstanding Senior Citizen Award. In 1984 George was inducted into the first Austin High School Hall of Fame.

Survivors include two daughters, DeeDee Marx, and Virginia Dugan; two grandsons, Jeff Marx, Greg (Lisa) Marx and their children, Logan and Kaylee; two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Bachman, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Mrs. Dorothy (Pete) Lade, Minneapolis.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Edith; by his brothers: Clarence, Harry and Leonard.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 22, 2007 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery south of Austin. The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Virginia 'Becky' Riley, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at her home.

Virginia M. Beck was born on April 30, 1923 to Walter and Alma (Schutz) Beck of Adams, Minnesota. She had an older sister, LaRae and a younger brother, Roger.

She attended Adams High School--graduating from there in 1941. She then attended the Junior College in Austin until entering the Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester, Minnesota, in June of 1942, graduating from there in June of 1945. Being in a wartime class she was a member of the cadet nurses corps of the Army.

Her first position upon graduation was head of the obstetrical department at St. Joseph's Hospital in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. She transferred to St. Olaf Hospital in Austin in 1946.

Becky later married Ray Riley. The were married for almost 58 years and were blessed with three children: Tom, Sharon and Michelle. Beside working at the hospital, Becky worked at the Austin Clinic, Raymond's Nursing Home and St. Mark's Lutheran Home before retiring in 1972.

Becky and four of her RN friends from training days kept in touch by keeping a 'Round Robin' letter going between them for over 60 years; their friendship was insurmountable.

Becky is survived by her son, Thomas Riley of Austin; by daughters Sharon (and Rick) Viviano of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and Michelle Riley of Minneapolis, Minnesota; by a grandson, Shannon Chavez of Covina, California; by a sister, LaRae Cherney of Wausau, Wisconsin; and by nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ray in 2005, and by her brother Roger.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 23, 2007, at Christ Episcopal Church, with Father Scott Monson officiating. Interment was in the Grandview Cemetery south of in Austin. Casket bearers were: Thomas Riley, Richard Viviano, and Shannon Chavez.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

 

Helen DeVaney, a longtime Austin resident, died early Tuesday morning, June 19, 2007, at the Austin Medical Center. Helen was a resident of Sacred Heart Care Center for the past six years. Emmett, her husband of 67 years, preceded her in death in November, 2006.

A reviewal was held at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Friday, June 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The funeral service was held at First Baptist Church in Austin on Saturday, June 23. Lunch was served at the church following interment at Grandview Cemetery south of Austin..

Helen Mae Pappas was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 1920 and was preceded in death by her mother and father, Minnie and John Pappas. Helen is survived by her three children: Diane and Clint Hertle of Austin; Stan and Velva DeVaney of Burton, Michigan; and Jeff DeVaney of Baxter, Minnesota; by six grandchildren, and by six great-grandchildren.

Helen spent most of her working years at Fantles Clothing in downtown Austin, and by working at her father's restaurants in Austin, most notably the Normandy Cafe and the well-known Lobster House between Grand Meadow and Spring Valley.

Helen was an active member of First Baptist Church in Austin and was well-known for her culinary additions to the many church events, especially her delicious homemade cinnamon rolls and cream puffs. Helen's greatest pleasure was having her home full of family and great food -- this was her lifelong 'hobby,' and those who were privileged to enjoy her hospitality will never forget her warm smile and loving attitude. God gave her a special gift of caring for others and she never let Him down!

 

Sandra Johnson, age 54, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, June 17, 2007 at her home. Sandra Maria Roemeling was born January 5, 1953 in Luverne, Minnesota, to Maynard and Vernice (Lorenzen) Roemeling.

Sandra graduated from the Luverne High School in 1971 and attended the Austin Area Vocational Technical Institute.

She married Randy Johnson on April 12, 1975, in Austin, Minnesota, and they later divorced. Sandra was employed by the Hormel Foods Corporation where she worked in the Employee Benefits Department. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Sandra is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Johnson and fiance Ty Vlasaty of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; by son Eric (and Kelly) Johnson of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota; by son, Brendon Johnson of Eden Prairie; by granddaughters, Emma and Mya Johnson; by a sister, Betty Evanson of Austin; by brother Elvin (and Lorraine) Roemeling of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and by nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by a brother-in-law, Everette Evanson; by a nephew, Brett Roemeling; and by her paternal and maternal grandparents.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 21, 2007, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, in Austin, with Rev. Kristi Koppel officiating. Interment was in the Trosky Cemetery in Trosky, Minnesota. The organist was Neal Erickson, the soloists were Anna Scheevel, violin, and David Scheevel, cello. Casket bearers were: Mike Sikkink, Wayne Scheevel, John Norton, Matt Rodgers, Mark Ratigan, and Paul Olson.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin, was in charge of arrangements.

 

Mildred Wildeman, age 77, died on Monday evening, June 18, 2007, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Mildred Mae Taylor was born in Austin on May 10, 1930, the daughter of Clovious and Zelta (Evans) Taylor. She was raised in the Brownsdale and Sargeant areas.

She married Art Wildeman on September 5, 1948, in Sargeant, Minnesota. Mildred was a homemaker, but also worked at Lohn's Grocery Store in Hayfield and Brownsdale for 10 years.

Mildred is survived by her husband, Art Wildeman, of Sargeant; by her six sons: Bill (Kathy) Wildeman, Stewartville, Minnesota; Bob (Mary) Wildeman, Sargeant; Russell (Sally) Wildeman, Hayfield, Minnesota; Roger (Laurie) Wildeman, Stewartville; Brian (Becki) Wildeman, Red Wing, Minnesota; Bradley (Mari) Wildeman, Gretna, Nebraska; by 19 grandchildren; by eight great-grandchildren; by two sisters, Margaret (Paul) Klein, Prescott, Arizona, Marilyn (Wayne) Luksik, Nevis, Minnesota; by two brothers, Dale (Elaine) Taylor, Dexter, Minnesota; and Dean (Jane) Taylor, Adams, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 22, 2007, at Zion United Methodist Church in Sargeant, Minnesota, with Rev. James Purdham and Rev. Jon Schultz co-officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale, Minnesota.

The Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, in Hayfield, was in charge of arrangements.

 

Joanne Gellerman, age 78, of Austin, Minnesota, died suddenly on Saturday, May 5, 2007 at her home.

Joanne Louise Gellerman was born Sept. 17, 1928 in Cloquet, Minnesota, to Floyd and Beatrice (Parks) Gellerman. She graduated from Macalester College with a Bachelor of Science degree and worked for many years as a scientist at the Hormel Institute in Austin.

Joanne is survived by her sister, Doris Dahlberg of Oakdale, Minnesota; and a sister-in-law, Patricia Hartle of Seattle, Washington.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and by her brother, Laurence Gellerman.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at Ruby Rupner Auditorium at the Hormel Nature Center in Austin. Interment was at the Hollandale Cemetery.

The Worlein Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Margaret J. Peterson, age 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, June 18, 2007 at Augustana Health Care Center in Apple Valley.

Margaret was born on October 18, 1912 in Rochester, Minnesota, to John and Marie (Jensen) Peters. On June 3, 1934 she married Marvin Peterson in Prescott, Wisconsin. He preceded her in death on Oct. 18, 1986. Margaret was a retired employee of Hormel Foods.

Survivors include two grandchildren, Brian (Alisa) Peterson, Lakeville, Minnesota, and Karen Milan; seven great-grandchildren; a brother, Frank Peters, Rochester; sisters: Mildred Christopherson, Rochester; Betty Pyfferon, Rochester; and Gladys Larson, Plainview, Minnesota.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son and daughter-in-law, Jan and Sharon Peterson; and by her siblings: Bill, Anna, Christy, George, Esther and Frieda.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 23, 2007 at Mayer Funeral Home, with Rev. Michael Olmsted officiating. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery.

 

Randell R. "Randy" Smith, 49, of Austin, Minnesota, died on June 9 at his home, of an aneurism.

Randy was born August 31, 1957 in Rochester, Minnesota, to Duane R. and Darlene (Jeglum) Smith. Randy was injured in a semi-truck accident in 1997 that left him with injuries he had to deal with daily.

He had many hobbies and interests that included a life long interest in cars and motorcycles. He was a talented mechanic and loved the challenge of restoring old cars and motorcycles.

Randy is survived by parents, Duane R. and Darlene Smith, Austin, Minnesota; by brothers: Lee R. (Cindy) Smith, Austin, Eric Smith, Long Lake, Minnesota; by nieces: Keri Smith, St. Louis Park, Minnesota, Kasey (David) Badzinski, Blaine, Minnesota, Erin (Steve) Bartos, Apple Valley, Minnesota; by a great niece, Reagan Badzinski; and by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Noal and Olga Smith, and Obert and Hilma Jeglum.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, June 26, 2007, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Austin, with the Rev. Kristi Koppel officiating.

 

Gregory Paul Gengler, 35, of Austin, Minnesota, and formerly of Worthington, Minnesota, died on Thursday, June 21, 2007 at his home.

Gregory was born on April 17, 1972 in Brookings, South Dakota to James and Rita (Barkley) Gengler. He attended school at Central Elementary in Brookings and graduated from Worthington High School in 1990. Greg attended Austin Community College and studied television production.

Greg started his television career in Austin, Minn. then moved to Rockford, Illinois. He later moved back to Austin and was the evening news director for KAAL television in Austin. Greg enjoyed animals and was very artistic with his many drawings.

Greg is survived by his parents: Jim and Rita Gengler of Worthington, Minnesota; by a sister, Leslie (Matt) Norman, Lakeville, Minnesota; by a brother, Andrew (Tricia) Gengler, Medford, Minnesota; by nieces, Elizabeth, Maria, and Rachel Norman; by nephews, Bryant, Matthew and Alex Gengler. He is also survived by his paternal grandmother, Geraldine Gengler of Brookings, South Dakota; and by his maternal grandfather, John Lenz, Watertown, South Dakota.

The Dingmann Funeral Home, in Worthington, Minnesota was in charge of arrangements.

A funeral service was held on Monday, June 25, 2007 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Worthington, with Father Larry Brixius officiating.

 

Leo Adam Bublitz, age 27, of rural Osage, Iowa, died on Saturday June 23, 2007, in an automobile accident near Waseca, Minnesota.

Leo was born on August 24, 1979 in Austin, Minnesota, to Dean and Marilyn (Anderson) Bublitz. He was baptized and confirmed at Emmanuel Lutheran church in Grafton, Iowa. Leo attended school in Grafton and St. Ansgar, Iowa, and graduated from St. Ansgar High School. Leo worked for farmers in the area. He loved being outdoors and with animals. He would do anything to help anyone who needed help.

Leo is survived by his mother, Marilyn Bublitz of rural Osage; by three brothers: Keith Anderson of Northwood, Iowa; Jeffery (Lori) Bublitz and their children, Cody and Kari of St. Ansgar; and Fredrick Bublitz of rural Osage; by a sister, Kasey (Randy) Petznick and their children, Samantha and James of St. Ansgar; and by a grandmother, Lucille Bublitz of St. Ansgar

He was preceded in death by his father, Dean, in 2000; by his grandparents, Harold Bublitz and Marvin and Dorothy Anderson; and by uncles, Darrel and Dale Bublitz.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 26, 2007, at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton, Iowa, with Rev. Wayne Ellingson and Irmgard Ellingson, Associate in Ministry, officiating. Burial was in the Grafton Cemetery.

The Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage, was in charge of arrangements.

 

Marjorie Ann "Marjie" Meier, age 72 of Adams, Minnesota, died on Monday, June 25, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota.

Marjorie Ann Kellogg was born to Robert and Agnes Mortenson Kellogg on December 17, 1934 in Forest City, Iowa. She graduated from Adams High School in 1952. On June 28, 1953, Marjie married Gerald Meier at the Marshall Lutheran Church. She graduated from Winona State University with a degree in music and psychology. She lived her entire life in the Taopi and Adams area.

Marjie was employed by the Adams/Southland School District for many years and later started her own business, Night Owl Press. She also served as the church organist for the Little Cedar and Marshall Lutheran congregations and conducted the Junior and Senior Bell Choirs. She volunteered countless hours for county and local organizations, including 4-H, the Mower County Fair, Historical Society, Genealogy Society, Prairie Visions and the Shooting Star Trail. Her talent as a gardener was enjoyed by the Adams Clinic and Nursing Home from many years. Marjie authored local historical books for the cities of LeRoy, Adams and Taopi and was also known as the “Prairie Hen” for the LeRoy Independent.

Marjie is survived by her husband, Gerald Meier of Adams; by a son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Rhonda Meier of Wylie, Texas; by daughters, Lorrie Meier of Austin, Penny Meier of Plymouth, Minnesota; by grandchildren: Nicole Luong of Wylie; Lance Milner of Dodge Center, Minnesota; Nate Mazal of Seattle, Washington; Paige Mazal-Meier of Plymouth; and by brothers and sisters-in-law, Mort and Marlene Kellogg of Taopi, Minnesota; Jim and Brenda Kellogg of Taopi.

Marjie was preceded in death by her parents; by a sister, Karen Kellogg; by grandsons, Drue Milner and Peter Meier; and by a nephew, Randy Kellogg.

A memorial service was held on Friday, June 29, 2007 at Little Cedar Lutheran Church with Rev. Shari A. Mason officiating. Interment was in the Marshall Lutheran Cemetery.

Organist was Pat Hinz. Honorary bearers were: Eric Kellogg, Edward Kellogg, Luann Kellogg, Lynn Slavin, Scott Kellogg, Becky Kellogg, and Cindy Krull.

The Adams Funeral Home was in charge.

 

Lucille Frieda (Waterbury) Ibeling, age 92 of Austin, died Sunday, June 24, 2007 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Lucille Frieda Bastian was born on August 20, 1914, to Alfred C. and Alvina (DuMond) Bastian in Grass Range, Montana. The family moved to Minnesota when Lucille was very young, so she grew up and attended schools here.

Lucille married George R. Waterbury. She opened Waterbury Pies in the 1950s. She operated the bakery and made pies until 2005. Later, she married Jake Ibeling. Lucille was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church where she was active in many programs, including circles.

Survivors include her son, Gene (Sandy) Waterbury of Austin; a daughter, Janice (Skip) Sneen of McGregor; five grandchildren: Todd Waterbury, Tony Kanel, Jeffrey Anderson, Russell Anderson and Julie Vanderhoff; and her ten great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by three husbands, Wendell Schultz, George Waterbury and Jake Ibeling; by her parents, Alvina and Alfred Bastian; by a daughter, Jeanine Kanel; by a son, Douglas Scultz; by two stepsons, Ronald and Aldrick Ibeling; and by brothers and sisters.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, with Dr. Reverend Andrew Lindahl officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery in south of Austin.

 

"Jerry" Schnorenberg, age 88, of Waseca, Minnesota, died on Sunday, June 17, 2007 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Jerome Edward was born on Aug. 4, 1918 in Rose Creek, Minnesota, to Edward J. and Ann (Dunleavy) Schnorenberg. He entered military service in 1941 in the U.S. Army. Jerry trained in Camp Clayborn, Louisiana, before deploying with the 134th Heavy Field Artillery to Ireland, England, Africa and Italy during World War II. After his honorable discharge in 1945, he returned home, and on August 25, 1945, was united in marriage to Ellen Stiles at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. Jerry and Ellen resided their entire married life in Waseca. Over the years, Jerry was employed with Pillsbury Mills, Birdseye, and the City of Waseca. He was a life member of the Knights of Columbus #2768, American Legion Post #228, and the V.F.W. Sweet-Sommers Post #1642.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen of Waseca; three children, Jerome E. (Cheryl) Schnorenberg, Jr., and Richard J. (Gloria) Schnorenberg, all of Owatonna, and Nancy (Robert) Burhop of Waterville; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; three sisters; Lillian Sneve of Rochester, Dorothy Schulz of Austin and Mary (Leonard) Van Den Hemel of Owatonna; two brothers, Bernard Schnorenberg of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and Francis (Mary) Schnorenberg of Mantorville, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by his daughter, Mary Ellen; and by a son, Thomas.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, June 21, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca, with Father John Kunz officiating. Interment was at Calvary Cemetery in Waseca.

Casket bearers were Andrew Grunwald, Jeremy Schnorenberg, David Schnorenberg, Joe Burhop, Cole Miller and Ben Peterson. Honorary bearers were Heather Leque, Jane Burhop, Brehea Wagner and Anthony Leque.

 

Henry Swenson Jr., 74, died on Sunday, June 24, 2007 at his son Dan's home surrounded by his wife, Helen, sons, Danny and Dennis, daughters, Eleanor (Pete) Horsman, Delores Swenson, Diane (Randie) Olsen, and Barb (Larry) Peters, his 12 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Henry was born on January 25, 1933 to Henry Swenson Sr. and Margaret (Peterson) Swenson. He was born and raised in LeRoy, Minnesota. He had three brothers: Edwin, Raymond, and Harris.

On July 6, 1952, he married Helen Wierson in Ostrander, Minnesota. After their wedding they made their home in LeRoy for the next 57 years. Together they raised eight children: Eleanor, Delores, Danny, Susan, Dennis, Diane, Barbara, and Colleen.

"Junior" was a livestock dealer all of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Helen of LeRoy; by his children: Elly (Pete) Horsman of Spring Valley, Minnesota, Dory, Danny and Dennis Swenson, all of LeRoy, Diane (Randie) Olson of Blaine, Minnesota, and Barb (Larry) Peters of LeRoy; by 15 grandchildren: Chastidy, Kristie, Korey, Chad, Missy, Stacy, Andy, Susie, Amy, Alisha, Lance, Nicole, Erin, Erik, and Hayden; by 16 great-grandchildren: Mariana, Gavin, McKayla, Alexis, Tanner, Chesney, Carter, Haley, Blake, Kaitlyn, Peighton, Dane, Clara, Troy, Brooke, and Nyla. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Pat Swenson and Leona Swenson, both of Austin, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by two daughters, Susan and Colleen; by three brothers; and by a sister-in-law.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 28, 2007, at the LeRoy Lutheran Church in LeRoy, with Rev. Dennis Timmerman officiating. Burial was in the Bethany Lutheran Cemetery.

The Hindt Funeral Home, in LeRoy, was in charge of arrangements.

 

Ruth M. Bork, 76, died at St. Mark's Nursing Home on Saturday, June 23, 2007, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Ruth Darling was born February 19, 1931, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to the late Mabel and Archibald Darling. She attended a one-room school house on the banks of the Red River, where she completed her primary studies in 1948. She studied art and English at the University of North Dakota, graduating in 1950. Ruth then moved to Minot, North Dakota, where she began her teaching career and met her soon-to-be husband, Edward Bork. They were married on August 23, 1952. In 1956, Ruth and Ed moved to Austin, where they made their home and raised their four children, Cynthia, Debora, Jeffrey and Valerie.

Ruth was an art teacher in the Austin Public Schools for more than 20 years. She was a co-proprietor of The Windfall gift shop for more than 30 years. She was active as a volunteer in many Austin-based organizations and with the Catholic Church.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Edward; by her daughters, Cynthia Bork, Forks, Washington, and Debora Bork, Chagrin Falls, Ohio; by a son, Jeffrey Bork, and his wife, Kathy Schaivone, Severna Park, Maryland; by a daughter, Valerie Enkhaus, and her husband, Greg Enkhaus, Ramsey, Minnesota; by seven grandchildren: Seth (Amanda) and Dylan Reichelt of Spokane, Washington; Margaret, Caroline and Timothy of Chagrin Falls; Andrew Bork of Severna Park; and Hunter and Logan Enkhaus, Ramsey; by a sister, Margaret Keefe, Billings, Montana; and a brother, Harold Darling, Phoenix, Arizona. She is also survived by former sons-in-law, Tim Callahan and Paul McCarthy, Chagrin Falls, Dennis Reichelt, Portland, Oregon, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Darling, Grand Forks, and Donald Darling, Dayton, Ohio; and two sisters, Lorraine and Dorothy Darling, Grand Forks.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Thursday, June 28, 2007 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Charlotte J. Mathison Harnack, 60, of Riceville, Iowa, died on Monday, June 11, 2007 at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center, Osage, Iowa. Funeral services were held on Friday, June 15, 2007 at the LeRoy Evangelical Lutheran Church, LeRoy, Minnesota.

Char was born in Cresco, Iowa, on July 9, 1946 to Milton and Ruby (Dotzenrod) Mathison.

Charlotte is survived by her husband Steven; by two children, Tammy Harnack of Rochester, and Bart Harnack and special friend Amy of Coon Rapids, Minnesota., by two brothers, Milo (Trudy) and Dwight (Teresa); and by several nieces; nephews; cousins; and their families.