Published 12/21/1998, Austin, Minnesota

AUSTIN, MINN. -- The funeral for Roland Stern will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Don Deines officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin with military rites by the VFW.

Mr. Stern, 74, of 1700 First Ave. N.E., died Wednesday (Dec. 16, 1998) at Veterans Administration Hospital in Tucson, Ariz. He was born Aug. 31, 1924, in Fayette County, Iowa. He attended Austin High School and joined the Marines in September of 1942. He was wounded on the island of Palau and received the Purple Heart.

He married Dorothy Sukow on Aug. 31, 1946, at Trinity Lutheran Church in rural Austin. He was a mechanic and farmed south of Austin. Retiring early due to his health, he owned and operated his own home remodeling company. He enjoyed woodworking, playing cards, fishing and reading. He was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, the VFW and Disabled American Vets.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy of Austin; three sons, Wayne and Dennis, both of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Steven L. of Austin; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Richard of Austin; and three sisters, Maxine (Mrs. Olaf) Hanson, Joanne (Mrs. Durwood) Iverson, both of Austin, and Lorraine (Mrs. Eldon) Tlan of Dunnell, Minn.

He was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister.

Friends may call from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday today at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and an hour before the service Tuesday at the church.

Submitted by "Judy Morgan" parmer8769@cox.net

 

Published 9/13/1999 Austin, Minnesota

AUSTIN, MINN. -- The funeral for Vernon R. Peterson will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Harold Usgaard officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin with military graveside rites by VFW Post 1216.

Mr. Peterson, 81, of Austin, a retired Hormel Foods Corp. employee, died Saturday (Sept. 11, 1999) at Our House Assisted Living in Austin. Born June 20, 1918, in Austin, he attended Ramsey country school in rural Austin and lived in Lansing most of his life. In 1941 he enlisted in the Army and served with the Fifth Division in the European theater during World War II.

On Nov. 20, 1947, he married Dorothy Stern in Sargeant. Mr. Peterson worked in the mechanical division at Hormel and retired in 1981. He was a lifelong member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church where he was an usher for many, and also was a member of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Rochester Osman Temple Shrine, Masonic Lodge 39 of Austin, and the VFW and American Legion. He enjoyed square dancing and attending auctions.

Survivors include one daughter, Sharman Peterson of Austin; two sons, Gary of Vallejo, Calif., and Paul of Lansing; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three sisters, Marguerite (Mrs. Ferris) Furtney and Katherine Torkelson, both of Austin, and Helen Davidson of San Jacinto, Calif., and one brother, Robert of rural Austin.

He was preceded in death by his wife, in 1997, and one brother.

Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and an hour before the service Tuesday at the church. There will be a Masonic service by Fidelity Lodge 39 A.F. & A.M. at 6:30 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to St. Olaf Lutheran Church or a charity of the donor's choice.

Submitted by "Judy Morgan" parmer8769@cox.net

 

Published 10/25/2001, Austin, Mower Co, Minnesota

AUSTIN, MINN. -- The funeral for Maxine E. Hanson, 83, of Austin, will be at 11 a.m., Monday at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Rev. Kristin K. Wee officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.

Mrs. Hanson died Wednesday (Oct. 24, 2001) at Adams Healthcare Center in Adams. Maxine Stern was born Oct. 31, 1917, in Blackhawk County, Iowa.

She married Olaf Hanson on Dec. 18, 1933 in Albert Lea. Mrs. Hanson was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, its Circle and Sons of Norway.

Survivors include her husband; seven daughters, Marjorie (William) Barnett, Janet Farrell, Phyllis Buzzard, Sylvia (Kenneth) Davis, Wendy (Kenneth) Larson, Candice Mathison and Valerie (Daniel) Johnson, all of Austin; 30 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; a brother, Richard (Clarice) Stern of Austin; two sisters, Joanne (Durwood) Iverson of Rochester and Lorraine (Eldon) Tlam of Dunnell, Minn.

She was preceded in death by two sons, four brothers, and a sister. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Submitted by "Judy Morgan" parmer8769@cox.net

 

Howard H. Willis, age 85, died Tuesday morning, July 3, 2007, at his home in rural Waltham, Minnesota.

Howard was born on November 6, 1921, the son of William and Verna (Roush) Willis in Winnebago County, Iowa. Howard moved from Iowa to Minnesota and farmed in the Waltham and Brownsdale, Minnesota areas. He worked at Hormel for 30 years.

He did taxidermy work, welding, sheep shearing, and auctioning. He married Jeanette Lawson on December 30, 1947, in Northwood, Iowa.

Howard is survived by his sons: Harold (Sharon) Willis, Owatonna, Minnesota, Wayne Willis, Florida; by his daughters: Nancy Willis, Waltham, Minnesota, Susan (Rashidem) Rahim, Austin, Minnesota; by five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jeanette in 1985, and by two sisters.

The funeral service was heldon Saturday, July 7, 2007, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield, with the Rev. Jerry Harris officiating. Interment was in the Waltham Township Cemetery in rural Waltham, Minnesota.

 

Joy A. Koll, age 72, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, June 24, 2007 at her home after a brief illness with cancer.

Joy was born on September 20, 1934 in Morgan, Minnesota. She grew up and graduated high school, and on June 17, 1952 was married to Leroy Koll at St. Michael's Catholic Church.

Survivors include her husband of 55 years, Leroy Koll; her brother, Allen Wilstermann, Brandon, Minnesota; her sister, Helen Rider, Minneapolis, Minnesota; her children and grandchildren: Cathy (Bill) Verdoorn, Brandon and Jared, Rochester, Minnesota, Barb (Bob) Plenge, Zach, Aaron, Luke, Hannah and Nicole Joy (deceased), Rochester, Minnesota, Terry (Pat) Gardon, Jenny, Steph, Kristin and Sean, West Bend, Wisconsin, Mike (Collette) Koll, Leroy, Robert (Megan), Tom, Becca and Mike Jr., Kansas City, Missouri, Laura Koll, Sparta, Wisconsin, Rachel Koll, Rochester, Minnesota, Celia (Paul) Allen, Kendric, Kirk, Benjamin and Bethany, Faribault, Minnesota, Gina (Dave) Ashley, Tricia, Taryn, Katy and Grace, Faribault, Minnesota; great grandchildren: Christopher and Lillian Koll.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Nicole Joy Plenge; by her parents; by her father-in-law and mother-in-law; and by her brother, Dave.

A memorial mass was celebrated on Friday, July 6, 2007 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with Father Joe Fogal and Father Paul Nelson officiating.

 

Eva May Anderson, 87 of Austin, Minnesota, and formerly of Pickford, Michigan, and St. Paul, Minnesota, died Sunday, July 1, 2007 at Grand Meadow Health Care Center.

Eva was born November 23, 1919 in Blairville, Michigan, to Samuel and Laura (Blair) Nettleton. She grew up in Blairville and married Lionel Anderson of Rudyard, Michigan, on October 15, 1941. While waiting for Lionel to return from World War II, she worked in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

In 1949 they moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where Eva worked at St. John's Hospital for many years. Upon retirement they moved to Pickford, Michigan, where they enjoyed several years with family and friends. Due to declining health they returned to Minnesota to be near their daughters, living in the Cedars of Austin and Grand Meadow Health Care Center.

Eva enjoyed all little children, she enjoyed being a homemaker, keeping her house, baking and entertaining. Eva accepted the Gospel in 1940, and remained true to her vows all her life.

She is survived by daughters: Wanda (Jim) Irvine, Rochester, Minnesota, Laura Jean (Ray) Schwardt, Winnebago, Minnesota, Heather (Dean) Smith, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota; by nine grandchildren, by 11 great-grandchildren; by a brother, Barney Nettleton; by a sister, Mary Anderson, and by several special nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, by three brothers and a twin sister, Edna.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 7, 2007 at 11 a.m., at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, with Dean Dykstra officiating. Interment was in the Dexter Cemetery in Dexter, Minnesota.

 

Elizabeth M. "Mook" Swank, age 90, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, June 30, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Elizabeth Bloomfield was born on July 14, 1916 in Austin, to Ralph and Elizabeth (Graff) Bloomfield. She worked over 30 years at Hormel before retiring in 1976.

She was a lifelong member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church and that was the foundation of her faith.

Survivors include her daughter, JoAnne (Richard) Jahr, Austin; three grandchildren, Gregory (Helen) Jahr, Austin, Stephanie (Donald) Villalta, Minneapolis, Susan (James) Hebrink, Austin; nine great-grandchildren, Rachael and Christopher Jahr, Nina Villalta, Anna, Gretchen, Sophia, Seth, Tate and Elyse Hebrink; nieces, Kay (Gary) Bellrichard, Diane (Tom) Brandon, Cathy Snyder; great nieces, Sara Bellrichard, Amy Unruh, Jennifer Brandon; great nephew, Marc Bellrichard.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by her brother, Arnold; by her sister, Venessa; and by a sister-in-law, Louise.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. There was also a CCW rosary and a wake service on Monday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin.

The casket bearers were: Gregory Jahr, Christopher Jahr, James Hebrink and Donald Villalta.

 

Clifford J. Bostrack, 90, of Austin, Minnesota, died early Monday morning, July 2, 2007, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. He was born on September 8, 1916 to Johnnie and Adah (Gullickson) Bostrack in Whalan, Minnesota, where he grew up. He graduated from Lanesboro High School.

He married Melba A. Jacobson on October 5, 1937 in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. They moved to Austin in 1943. Cliff served in World War II, stationed in Denver, Colorado. After the war, he returned to Austin where he worked at Geo. A. Hormel & Company until his retirement in 1979. A member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Sons of Norway, American Legion and Trout Unlimited, Cliff loved his family and his pet cat, Tuffy, enjoyed fishing, the outdoors and woodworking.

Survivors include three daughters: Carol (Mitchell) Stethem of Minneapolis; Jane (James) Ryan of St. Charles, Minnesota; Kathleen (Greg) Brown of Austin; six grandchildren, Cindy Stethem, Susan Aguilar, Michael Ryan, Kevin Ryan, Emily Brown, Sarah Brown; three great-grandchildren, Jamie, Samantha and Zayne; many relatives and friends, including special friends, Vince, Carol and Chet.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melba; by his parents, Adah and Johnnie; and by two brothers, Edward and Millard.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 5, 2007 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, with The Reverend Ron Barnett officiating. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin, with military honors by American Legion Post 91.

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

 

Donald Walter Camerer, age 66, died on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at his home in rural Longville, Minnesota.

Donald was born on December 31, 1940 to Walter L. and Aline (Eggestine) Camerer in Austin, Minnesota. He attended School District 40, east of Austin for the first eight years of his schooling. He graduated from Austin High School in 1959 and completed the 2000 hour Austin Vocational School auto mechanics course.

He was employed by the Ford garage in Houston, Minnesota, International Harvester, and Usem Chevrolet in Austin, from which he retired.

He married Franne Hagerud on November 20, 1993. Through life, he vacationed at Clover's Hideaway, near Hackensack, and after retirement, he and Franne moved north permanently. He was currently a member of Grace Baptist Church in Austin and Longville Bible Chapel in Longville. He volunteered for Longville Food Shelf, Miracle Bible Camp and the Longville Bible Chapel. His faith was especially important to him. By volunteering, he felt he was sharing his faith.

Don spent many, many years as a Sunday school teacher in the two and three year olds department. What a blessing to see these little ones start Sunday school and have the comfort of the arms and lap of this "Teddy Bear" of a man. He so enjoyed sharing the anecdotes of the children's bright comments and enthusiasm for the Bible stories. Of course, the highlight of the hour was his passing out the M and M's - exactly six to each child -- along with an animal cookie. They then had to fold their hands while Don thanked God for the food. Another highlight was the Christmas program with the "birthday cake for Jesus" being held and candles lit by Don. Parents, children, and teachers looked forward to this big seasonal event. Don was a dedicated, faithful, and enthusiastic servant of the Lord -- now with his Lord.

Don liked to hunt and to catch fish and he enjoyed telling stories about the fish he caught. He took his kids and grandkids out fishing so they could lie with him about the fish he caught! He taught his oldest grandson, Tyler, how to roller skate and a lot about respecting life. He spent time with his granddaughters, even helping to potty train them. He was a friend to all the neighbor children, and a mentor to his special neighbor, Drew. Don was a "gentle giant" and a warm, happy, people person who went out of his way to help others. Fond memories were created for both Don and Franne this past January during a month-long trip to Hawaii.

He is survived by his wife, Franne; by her children: Patricia (Al) Tuley, Sarah (Brian) Noma, and Timothy (Holly) Camerer; by step-children, Laine (Susan) Ladlie, Missy Ladlie, and Kate Harris; by her brother, Roger (Jean) Camerer; by her sister, Maureen (David) Rohan; and a brother, Richard (Lori) Camerer; and by grandchildren: Ashley, Stephanie, Jessica, Elizabeth, Nathan, Henry, Chloey, Chase, Cole, Tyler, Bryanna, Claire, Mackenzie, and Isabella.

Preceding him in death were his father and mother.

Services have been held. Funeral arrangements were made by Dennis Funeral Home of Longville and Walker.

 

Gloria R. Kaderabek, age 66 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, June 23, 2007 at her home.

Gloria was born on December 7, 1940 in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Arthur and Kathryn (Anderson) Miller.

She is survived by her children: Cheryl (Loren) Arends, New Lisbon, Wisconsin, Steve Kaderabek, Albert Lea, Minnesota, Judy Kaderabek (Ron Schenk), Winnebago, Minnesota; by her grandchildren: Dustin (Jill) Beckjorden, Heather Larson (Leath Lambert), Nicole Beckjorden (Eric Williams), Jessica Arends, Jason (Lorna) Arends, all from Wisconsin, Corey Christenson, Nathan Christenson (Connie Buckridge), Steve Christenson (Rachel Dickman), Daniel Christenson (Laura Delaney), all from Austin, Minnesota, Ashley Kaderabek, Albert Lea, Minnesota, Travis Kaderabek, Albert Lea; by 11 great-grandchildren, by brothers: Lloyd (Arvis) Miller, Glenville, Minnesota, Bob (Barb) Miller, Austin, Minnesota; and by nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, by her sister Dorothy, by a Sister-in-law Sonya, and by a nephew Daniel Miller.

A memorial service was held on Monday, July 2, 2007, at 1 p.m., at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel, with the Rev. Shari Mason officiating. Interment was in Woodbury Cemetery.

 

Arthur H. Johnson, age 88, of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday morning at the Austin Medical Center in Austin.

Arthur Harold Johnson was born in Buffalo, Minnesota, April 30, 1919. He was the youngest of the three children of Adolph and Anna Johnson. He was graduated from Buffalo High School in 1937. The following year he attended the Minneapolis School of Business.

In 1938 he entered Macalester College in St. Paul, and was there until 1941, when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Corps, where he was in the Finance Department. He was discharged in 1946 as a Captain and was Finance Officer at Pope Field in North Carolina.

He then returned to Macalester College, and graduated in 1946 with a BA degree. In 1951 he graduated from the University of Denver with an MBA degree. Later he furthered his study of economics at the University of Missouri and at the University of Minnesota.

He taught in the high schools of LeSueur, Minnesota and Oxnard, California before coming to Austin in 1950. He taught in the business education department of Austin High School from 1950-1965. He then taught economics at Austin Community College from 1965-1980.

In 1962 he married Abigail Moore, who was teaching senior high English in Austin High School. They were married at Moorland Farm, Jackson, Minnesota.

Art was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he served as both elder and deacon.

Survivors include his wife; one nephew, John (Sue) Bates, Punta Gorda, Florida and Austin; and a niece, Bonnie (Russell) Grgich, Sun Lakes, Arizona;

He was preceded in death by his parents; by his sister, Mildred; and by a brother, Bernard.

There was no reviewal. A memorial service was held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Monday, July 2, 2007, with Rev. Dr. Andrew Lindahl officiating.

Burial wwill be in Riverside Cemetery, Jackson, Minnesota at a later date. The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

 

Emma Falck, age 85, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

She was born on August 28, 1921 in Brownsdale, Minnesota, to William and Hermina Bos. Growing up, Emma was baptized and confirmed into the Lutheran faith. She also attended country school near Brownsdale.

On January 27, 1940 Emma married James K. Falck on her family's farm near Brownsdale. Emma worked at Hormel for 27 years.

Emma is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lois and Lenard Clark of Austin; by grandchildren: Dianne (Ronald) Ripley of Austin; Gwen (Jeff) Maag of Tripp, South Dakota; Roxanne (Terry) Nelson of Austin; by great-grandchildren: Adria (Raul) Vargas, Clinton Ripley, Meghan Grue, Justin Maag, Joshua Maag; by great-great-grandchildren, Isaac Vargas, Gabriel Vargas; and by a sister, Katie Bumgarner of Austin.

Emma was preceded in death by her husband, James; by two sisters; and by two brothers.

Funeral services were held Friday, June 29, 2007 at 2 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church with Rev. Daniel M. Provost officiating. Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation was held at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and on Friday at St. John's Lutheran Church for one hour before the service.

 

G. T. "Larrie" Montgomery, 79, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, July 7, 2007, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Larrie Stark was born to Charles and Sylvia (Freese) Stark on Aug. 29, 1927 in Mower County, Minnesota. Growing up in the Austin area, she graduated from Austin High School in 1946 and was proud to live in the Austin area all her life. She was married to Jerry Montgomery for 25 years. A longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church, she was active in circle and Bible study, as well as being a member of the Red Hat group.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry of Austin; daughters, Linda (Bill) Bottema of Isanti, Marci (Steve) Burton of Austin; stepsons, Rodger Montgomery of Saugatuck, Mich., Mark Montgomery of Oakland; daughter-in-law, Barbara Martin of Apex, N.C.; 21 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one brother, Edward “Red” Stark of Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Sylvia Stark; her son, David Lee Martin; grandson, David Philip Martin; and two brothers, Jack and Chuck.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at Grace Lutheran Church, Austin with Rev. Robert Iverson officiating.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is in charge of arrangements.

 

Bill Merritt was born Nov. 19, 1949 to Chester William Merritt and Margaret Louise (Young) Merritt. He died June 29, 2007 following a courageous battle with a very rapid, very debilitating disease.

Bill graduated from Austin High School and Mankato State College. He worked at various jobs in Mankato and then moved to Minneapolis, Minn. He purchased a home in North Minneapolis, where he could practice three things that meant so much to him: remodeling, gardening, and listening to music.

Bill is survived by his brother Sam; sister Trace and her husband Scott Clennon; nieces, nephews, and cousins; and two friends, Tony and Glenn, who did so much of the physical work Bill needed in his last years.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

At Bill's request, no service is planned.

 

Mary C. Knutson, 61, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, July 8, 2007 at her home in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Mary Novak was born October 24, 1945 in Decorah, Iowa, to Edward and Darlene (Hill) Novak. Her family moved to Austin when she was young. She graduated from Austin High School and San Jose State University.

Mary is survived by her children: Emmerlee (Marty) Sherman of Burnsville; Catherine (Jack) Wilhoit of Louisville, Kentucky; Joan (Rhodie) Jacobson of Monticello, Minnesota; Greta (Orn) Gudmundsson of Louisville; Neil Knutson of Minnetonka, Minnesota; 11 grandchildren: Nick, Olivia, Ben, Tatiana, Sam, Jack, Noah, Reecie, Callan, Liv, and Ella; brothers: Charles (Mary) Novak of Rosemount, Minnesota; John (Davi) Novak of California; David (Deb) Novak of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota; many nieces and nephews; and former spouse, Dan Knutson.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at Christ Episcopal Church in Austin with Father Scott Monson and the Rev. Lynn Adwell officiating. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

Organist will be Gretchen Zinsli, and soloist will be Erin Schumacher.

 

Debra Lee Bushaw, age 53, died on Monday, July 9, 2007.

Debbie, the daughter of Emery (Bud) and Enid Thompson, of Austin, Minnesota; sister of Susan Warnick, Wyoming, Minnesota; Mary Gaye (Ron) Bergstrom, Austin and Julie (Mike) Kelly, Forrest Lake, Minnesota, married her high school sweetheart, Steve Bushaw in 1974. Together they had three wonderful children, Ben (Natalie) Bushaw, Eagan, Minn.; Abbie (Travis) Kaehler, Rochester, Minn.; Angie Bushaw, Rochester; twin grandsons, Owen Paul and Logan Thomas.

Debbie and Steve spent their lives building a home filled with love. They owned and operated the Bushaw Bakery for many years and she most recently worked at the Mayo Clinic as a donor services specialist.

Debbie was a cherished wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend with an unwavering faith in her Lord Jesus Christ. We will dearly miss the strongest woman we know.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 13, 2007, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. A Celebration of Debbie's life will be held immediately following the service until 7:30 p.m. at the Bushaw's country home, 14628 880th Avenue, Glenville, Minn.

 

Ralph Waters, 87, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday morning, July 10, 2007, at the Austin Medical Center.

Ralph H. Waters was born March 8, 1920 to Mark and Nora (Holte) Waters in Austin. He married Agnes Haney on June 22, 1941 in rural Austin. A lifelong Austin resident, Ralph worked as a farmer and also sold seed and feed for many years. He enjoyed his horses and selling agricultural items. A lifetime member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Ralph was an usher for over 30 years.

Survivors include his wife, Agnes of Austin; son, Larry (Pamela) Waters of Austin; three daughters: Judy (William) Renwick of Austin; Sue (John) Nielsen of Albert Lea, Minn.; Dedee (R.J.) Bergstrom of Austin; 20 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Loren “Bud” Waters of Bellevue, Wash., Darrel Waters of Rochester, Minn.; one sister, Mae Etta Jarvis of Lino Lakes; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Jan Waters; and brother-in-law, C. Kenneth Jarvis.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 13, 2007, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Visitation is from 4-8 p.m., Thursday, July 12, 2007 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service on Friday. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

Memorials are preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church or to Austin Medical Center Foundation Heart Fund.

 

Keith Judd, 78, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, July 9, 2007 at his home.

Keith Francis Judd was born March 20, 1929, in Austin, to Leonard and Lillian (Gulbrandson) Judd. He grew up and spent his entire life in Austin.

Keith was confirmed at St. Augustine Church. He graduated in 1947 from St. Augustine High School and attended Austin Junior College for one year. He started to work at Hormel Foods in 1947 and retired in 1986. He held many offices in Local 9, including seniority and Executive Board.

Earlier in his life he worked at Knauers Meat Market and Economy Grocery. Keith and his lifelong friend Milo Mach started a sod business that Milo continued on with. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, fishing and lots of travel with his family and friends.

He was active at St. Edward's Church in many ways, including chairman of the Pastoral Council and Mardi Gras Ball. He was also on the College Scholarship Foundation, was the past president of Pacelli Boosters Club, and the president United Way from 1975 to 1977. Keith was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church since 1970.

On Nov. 24, 1949, Keith married Dolores Peterson at St. Augustine Church and they had five children.

Survivors include his wife, Dolores "Pete" Judd, Austin; children: Cathy (Jim) Christopherson, Duluth, Minnesota; Nancy (Terry) Grunwaldt, Jim Judd, Jeanne (Richard L.) Anderson, Lisa (Tom) Dunlop, all of Austin; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brothers: James Judd, St. Paul, Minnesota; Duane (Maggie) Judd, Albert Lea, Minnesota; Mike Judd, Austin; sisters, Mary Ann (John) Ruffins, Chicago, Illinois, and Barbara (Ron) Huffman, Austin; sister-in-law, Helen Judd, Austin; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Wayne.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 12, 2007 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Austin.

 

John E. Fodness, 79, of Cleveland, Texas, died Wednesday, July 11, 2007, in Waterloo, Iowa.

John was born in Freeborn County, Minnesota, on July 21, 1928 to Jacob and Sella (Christopherson) Fodness. He grew up in the Austin, Minnesota area.

He served as a paratrooper in the United States Army. John worked in the carnival business for the past 25 years, traveling all over the United States with Candyland Carnival, which he owned and operated.

John is survived by his three sons: Floyd Fodness, Cleveland, Texas; James Grap, Cleveland, Texas; Ed (Christine) Grap of Isle; his two daughters, Amy (Joel) Ferguson and Marian Grap, both of Austin, Minnesota; his two grandchildren, Crystal Curry, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Deven Walker; his two great-grandchildren, Isabella and Grace Walker; two of his sisters, Annette Bond and Ruth Rauen, both of Austin, Minnesota; and a brother, Jim Fodness of Glenville, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, by four brothers, and by five sisters.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at Crane Community Chapel in Austin, Minnesota, with the Rev. David DeFor officiating. Visitation was held on Monday, July 16, 2007 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin.

Interment was in Oakland Lutheran Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91.

 

Austin resident, Armeda Marcella Olson, age 92, died on Tuesday, July 10, 2007, at Austin Medical Center.

She was born on August 14, 1914 to John and Clara (Morstad) Jacobson in Windom Township, Mower County, Minnesota.

She married Richard T. Olson on September 30, 1941 in Hayward, Minnesota. Armeda and Richard farmed all their married life and were members of Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church east of Lyle, Minnesota. Armeda worked at Lyle Produce for awhile. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, family activities, genealogy and needlework. Her gardening included trying new exotic flowers.

Survivors include two sons: Richard S. Olson of Rose Creek, Minnesota; Ronald G. Olson of Stacyville, Iowa; four daughters: LaVonne (Harlan) Ladehoff of North Bend, Nebraska; Joanne (Larry) Blake of Stacyville, Iowa; Diane (Bernard) Larson of North Bend; Ramona (Larry) Shatte of Rochester, Minnesota; 25 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Clara Jacobson; and by her husband, Richard in 1995.

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, July 14, 2007, at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church, rural Lyle, with Rev. Lydia Mittag officiating.

The Worlein Funeral Home in Austin was in charge of arrangements. Interment was in Six Mile Grove Cemetery, rural Lyle.

 

A former Austin resident, Richard Maly, 74, of Duluth, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, July 10, 2007, in St. Mary’s Medical Center.

Richard Milton "Dick" Maly was born in Austin, Minnesota, on June 24, 1933 to Loddy and Alice (Winke) Maly Sr.

On Oct. 15, 1967, Dick married Gertrude Norbeg in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dick worked as a night auditor in St. Paul and Minneapolis. He moved to Duluth 38 years ago. He did payroll for the former Garon Knitting Mills in Duluth. He and Gertrude owned Maly’s Green House in Duluth Township.

Dick is survived by his wife, Gertrude; by his brother, Loddy Jr (Pat) of Austin; by his nephews, Loddy the III, Daniel Maly and a special friend, Mari Josephs.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

There was no funeral service, but a visitation was held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 14th, 2007 in the Jarvi-Dowd Funeral Home. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Palmers.

Arrangements by Bell Brothers Jarvi Dowd Funeral Home, Duluth.

 

Landol Locher, of Anoka, Minnesota, died on July 8, 2007 at the age of 76 years.

Landol J. Locher was born on February 2, 1931 in Austin, to Ray and Regina Locher. He had practiced law for over 50 years and was a senior partner with Babcock, Locher, Neilson and Mannella Law Firm. He was active in the Anoka Lions Club and was a member in the Austin Eagles Club and Moose Lodge.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; children, Joleen (Don) Kotoski, Brenda Lee Locher (Pete McLean), Lynne (Mark) Altenburg, Landy Locher, Victoria Belisle, and Craig Locher; grandchildren, Kal, Weston, Rebecca, Jennifer, Katherine, John, Daniel, Arielle, Jeremy, Justin, Trevor, Josh and Alyssa; brothers, John (Virginia) and Ray (Linda) Locher; sisters, Catherine (Duane) Tollefson, Dorothy (Robert) Lukes, and Maureen (Michael) Bibus; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by parents; and by his sisters, Carol Schaefer and Susan Bjornson.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, July 13, 2007 at 11 a.m., at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, 2020 5th Ave. N., Anoka. Visitation was held on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Ave., Anoka. 763-421-0220. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery.

 

Robert Bang Sr., age 80, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, July 15, 2007 at his home.

Bob B. Bang was born on November 28, 1926, in Austin, to Helmer and Anita (Tucker) Bang. He graduated from Austin High School. He served in the United States Army in Germany during World War II. After being discharged from the army he returned to Austin where he worked in the automotive industry for a few years.

Bob married Joyce Iverson on January 21, 1951 in Austin. He taught Auto Mechanics and Auto Machine at Riverland College in Austin for over 31 years, retiring in 1994. In retirement he enjoyed working on car restoration projects, spending time outdoors, and he loved fishing with his granddaughter. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Bob is survived by his son, Robert (Debra) Bang Jr. of Lakeville, Minnesota; by a granddaughter, Alexandra Bang of Lakeville; by a sister, Ardie (Charlie) Valdahl of Austin; and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce in 1995.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 19, 2007 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation was held at the church on Thursday for one hour before the service. Organist was Neal Erickson. Casket bearers were: Charlie Skarphol, Dave Skarphol, Tony Thies, Terry Voigt, Brian Stemson, Brant Storvick, and Nathan Toland.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

 

Patricia L. Miller, 74, of Burnsville, Minnesota, and formerly of South Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Austin, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, July 17, 2007.

Pat graduated from Pacelli High School in Austin, and then from St. Theresa's College in Winona, Minnesota.

She is survived by her siblings: Dr. Gerald (Marie) Miller, Jeanne (Jim) Veverka and Mary Ellen Murphy; sister-in-law: Mary Ellen Miller; and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Pat is preceded in death by her brother, Donald Miller.

A Memorial service will held on Monday, July 23, 2007 at the Ebenezer Health Care Center Chapel, 13820 Community Dr., Burnsville, Minnesota. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Austin, Minnesota, on Tuesday, July 24, 2007.

 

Laura Becker, 87, of Blooming Prairie, Minn. died Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Laura Emily DeMets was born Sept. 27, 1919 to Achiel and Bertha (Dejonchere) DeMets in Ellendale, Minn., where she grew up and received her education, graduating from Ellendale High School.

She married Clinton Martin Becker on Nov. 4, 1941 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin, Minnesota.

They farmed in the Brownsdale, Blooming Prairie and Waltham, Minnesota area and spent winters in Mesa, Arizona for over 30 years. After retiring in 1995, Laura and Clinton moved into Blooming Prairie.

A member of St. Columbanus Catholic Church CCW and her neighbors' birthday club.

Survivors include her husband, Clinton Becker of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; two sons, Jerry (Karen) Becker, Austin, Clinton G. (LuAnn) Becker, Jr. of Waltham, Minnesota; a daughter, Mary (Paul) DeGennaro, Coronado, California; seven grandchildren: Wade (Carla) Becker, Mankato, Minnesota; Bette Jo (Jeff) Becker-Ostgaard, Kasson, Minnesota; Todd (Amy) Becker, Farmington, Minnesota; Ryan (Jenny) Becker, Frontenac, Minnesota; Jennifer Becker (Jonathan Halbesleben), Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Natalie (Anthony) Sorensen, Waltham, Minnesota; Matt DeGennaro, Coronado, California; ten great-grandchildren: Mickinzie Beckel, Matthew Beckel, Isaac Becker, Laura Becker, Wyatt Becker, Cotton Ostgaard, Luke Becker, Dalton Ostgaard, Alex Halbesleben and Dylan Becker; a sister: Anse (Donald) Hillson, Charles City, Iowa; a sister-in-law: Irene DeMets, Owatonna, Minnesota; a brother-in-law: George Becker, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bertha and Achiel Demets; by two brothers, Maurice and Leo DeMets; and by one sister, Bernice Weim.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 21, 2007 at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie, with Father Richard Dernek officiating. Visitation was from 4 to 7 p.m., on Friday, July 20, 2007 at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service on Saturday. A ladies rosary was held at 4 p.m., Friday, and prayer service at 7 p.m., Friday, both at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home.

Interment was in Blooming Prairie City Cemetery in Blooming Prairie.

 

Delores Marie Spartz Kirkwood was born on February 10, 1921, in Dundas, Minnesota, the elder daughter of Frank and Etta Spartz. Delores died on July 15, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center, Austin, Minnesota.

In 1966 Delores married Lester Kirkwood, who preceded her in death five years ago.

Surviving are her daughters, Barbara (Steve) Forslund and Nancy Kraft; her grandchildren: Dea (Reid) Bjork, Kosta Mercuris, Niko Mercuris, Melina (Brian) Neal and Anna (Brad) Squibb; a great-grandson, R.J. Neal; her sisters: Dorothy Henaman, Faith (Gerald) Horn, and Sylvia (Arthur) Moen; and her brother, Ronald (Lou Evelyn) Mork.

She was preceded in death by her son, Gary Capp, and her brother, Jack Mork.

Delores was a strong, capable woman, with a tender, loving soul who was as equally adept at wielding a cutting torch in the Portland, Oregon shipyards during World War II as she was at gently cultivating her African violet collection. Before and after the war Delores worked at Hormel Foods.

Her love of nature and flowers extended to the garden beds around the home she and Les shared. People passing by often stopped to admire the beauty of their combined efforts.

Family and friends benefited from Delores's love of good food. She was an excellent cook whose tables were beautifully set, but she enjoyed good dining out gatherings as well.

Those who knew Delores will share a chuckle with us when we say we remember our spirited relative as a person who held her beliefs with deep conviction. She loved a fiery debate over politics, religion or good old potting soil.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 20, 2007 at Mayer Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Goosen officiating. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.