Norman V. Hamberg, 65, of Austin and Las Vegas, Nevada, died on November 14, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center, Austin, Minnesota.

Norman was born on October 6, 1942 to Norval and Violet (midge) Hamberg, in Austin. He graduated from Austin High School.

In November 1989, Norman married Norma Helm in Las Vegas. In his spare time Norman liked to travel and restore cars. He loved to do off-roading and treasure hunts in the deserts of Arizona. Norman had recently returned to Austin to help care for his mother after the death of his stepfather.

Norman is survived by his wife, Norma Hamberg, Las Vegas, Nevada; by his children, Troy (Helen) Hamberg, Wichita Falls, Texas; Jacqueline (Albert) Aldesco, Los Angeles, California; stepsons, Marty Deters, Scottsdale, Arizona; Perry (Beth) Deters, Rockford, Illinois; Tim Deters, Las Vegas; 11 grandchildren; and by his mother, Violet Falk, Austin.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, November 18, 2007, at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel, with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Burial wsd at Hillcrest Cemetery.

 

Elmer Raymond Weber, 82, of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 14, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center. He was born on May 8, 1925 to Albert and Rose (Adams) Weber in Johnsburg, Minnesota.

He married Patricia Anderson on October 30, 1945 at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin. They made their home in Stacyville, Iowa, and after four years, moved to Austin. Employed as a truck driver, Elmer was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia Weber; six daughters, Mary Ann (David) Gaines, Linda (Russell) Anderson, Sandra Benner, all of Austin; Kathie (Charles) Helland, Albert Lea; Joan (Roni) Van Riper, Glenville; Jean (Dale) Ackland of Austin; 22 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, one-great-great-grandchild; a brother, Jerome (Dorothy) Weber, Austin; and a brother-in-law, Joe Lammers, Adams.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by two daughters, Nancy and Carol; by a great-granddaughter, Kayla; by a sister, Florence Lammers; and by a brother, Walter Weber.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Austin, with Father Joe Fogal officiating.

Interment was in Red Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Austin.

 

Donald Henry LaPlante, age 73, died on November 11, 2007 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin.

Donald was born on February 22, 1934 in Manchester, New Hampshire, to Henry and Robea (Benoit) LaPlante. He attended Western Grade School and Central High School in New Hampshire. He entered the military service at the age of 17 and served with the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Donald resided in New York, Ohio, Glenville, Minn., for 15 years, Wells, Minn., and presently Austin.

He worked as a semi driver for L. J. Kennedy, Young Truck Lines, D & T Trucking Company and has received many safety awards for his driving while traveling throughout the whole United States. Donald was a member of First Lutheran Church, Glenville. He was a member of the American Legion and Moose Club. Donald was a legend with the guitar. Donald also enjoyed his Ham Radio and talking on the CB and gardening.

Donald is survived by his five children, Cheryl Ann Cressman, Philadelphia Pa.; Donald LaPlante, Philadelphia, Pa.; Jimmy LaPlante, Kentucky; Theresa LaPlante, Glenville, Minn.; and Melissa LaPlante, Glenville; stepson, Judd Goskeson, Albert Lea, Minn.; former wife, Susan Bowman, Glenville; sister, Janet LaPlante, Montana; and a brother, Jean-Paul LaPlante, Alabama.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents; by a baby brother, Bobbie; by a sister Lorraine Herbert.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 17, 2007, at First Lutheran Church in Glenville. Interment was in Hillcrest Cemetery.

 

Florence J. Hogan, age 91, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 14, 2007, at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Florence Konovsky was born on October 18, 1916 in Austin, the fifth child of John and Frances (Rayman) Konovsky. She graduated from Austin High School and worked at Hormel Foods in the Cold Pack Department. It was there that Florence met her husband, James H. Hogan. They were married in the Twin Cities. Jim preceded her in death on January 26, 1994.

Survivors include her niece, Charmaine Doumel Raber, Coon Rapids.

In addition to her husband she was preceded in death by her parents; by a brother, John; and by three sisters: Frances Stejskal, Gladys Doumel and Valencia Konovsky.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Friday, November 16, 2007 at Sacred Heart Care Center, with Father Donald Zenk officiating.

Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Mower County Humane Society. Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Erma Grovdahl, 89, of Hayfield, Minnesota, died on Friday, November 9, 2007, at Field Crest Care Center after a short battle with cancer.

Erma was born January 17, 1918 to Thomas and Nellie (Knapp) Stayner in Franklin County, Iowa. The family moved to rural Sargeant, Mower County, Minnesota, where she attended school. She was baptized and confirmed at Evanger Lutheran Church in Sargeant, by Pastor Earl Weeks.

On June 7, 1938, she was united in marriage to George Grovdahl in Grand Meadow.

Erma was a homemaker and loving wife and mother. She worked alongside George on the family farm, and together they raised three children. Erma loved to bake and sew, making many hand-stitched quilts for others to enjoy. Her grandchildren fondly remember that, no matter how busy grandma was, she always had enough time to whip-up a mouth-watering roast beef dinner, topped off with lemon meringue pie. She is also remembered for her homemade noodles. Throughout her lifetime, Erma had a strong faith and served in many capacities at Evanger Lutheran Church. She was involved with the Sunday School for over thirty-five years as a teacher and superintendent. She held offices in the Ladies Aid and Circle and sang for many years in the church choir.

Erma and George loved music, calling themselves the Root River Music Makers. They performed at various community events, churches and nursing homes. Erma played the accordion or guitar and sang while George played his violin or guitar. Together George and Erma enjoyed traveling in their motor home after their family was raised and especially enjoyed their many trips to Nashville, Tenn., and Yankton, S.D. Both George and Erma loved to fish and they enjoyed their annual trips to Pelican Lake near Orr, Minn., where the extended family gathered once or twice a year.

Erma is survived by her son, George Jr. (Doris), Stewartville, Minnesota; daughter, Jan (Don) Flatness, Glenville; by grandchildren: Mike Sween, Racine, Jon (Sari) Flatness, Savage, Janean (Joe) Mestnik, Prior Lake; by three great-grandchildren: Ryan, Tommy and Anna, all of Prior Lake; by a son-in-law, Don Sween, Racine; and by sisters, Madeline (Wayne) Groteluschen, Rochester, Edna Wolff, Charles City, Iowa.

Erma was preceded in death by her parents; by her husband, George in 2005; by a daughter, NellieAnn in 2002; by two sisters, Marvel Knutson and Margaret Berge; and by three brothers: Woodrow “Jiggs”, Ray and Tommy Stayner.

The funeral service was held on Saturday, November 17, 2007, at Evanger Lutheran Church, rural Sargeant, with the Rev. Lyle Aadahl officiating. Interment was in the church cemetery.

Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville was in charge of arrangements.

 

Leslie C. Bush, 68, of Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Saturday November 10, 2007 at his home, following a short battle with cancer.

Leslie Bush was born on November 2, 1939 in Windom, Minnesota, to William “Kelly” Bush and Erma (Puck) Bush. He attended and graduated from Grand Meadow High School and started farming with his parents. In 1961 he was united in marriage to Karen Nelson in Rochester, and together they continued to farm in the Grand Meadow area until 1982. Les also worked for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for 33 years.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, Grand Meadow; by five children: Lisa Bush, Rochester; Robert Bush, Grand Meadow; Daniel (Melyssa) Bush, Simpson, Minnesota, Douglas Bush, Grand Meadow, and Jennifer (Jason) Burmeister, Rochester; by seven grandchildren: Tiffany, Timothy, Brandon, Bryan, Matthew Samantha, Emma; by five siblings: Carol (Harry) Meyer, Byron, Minn., Jerry and Barbara Bush, Spring Valley; Dale Bush, Grand Meadow; Glen (Barbara) Bush, Tripola, Iowa; and Janette (Gary) Stromley, Northfield, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mary.

Funeral services for Leslie C. Bush were held on Tuesday, November 13, 2007, at the United Church of Grand Meadow, with the Rev Karen Ashton officiating. Burial was in the Grand Meadow Cemetery.

The Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow was in charge of arrangements.

 

Hazel Genevive “Bunny” Greenman, age 85, of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 9, 2007 at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Hazel Genevive Heimsness was born on July 28, 1922 in Ostrander, Minnesota, to Julius and Clara (Hellickson) Heimsness.

Hazel was united in marriage to Clifford Greenman on October 25, 1944 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Hazel attended Spring Valley elementary school and graduated from Austin High School in 1940, where she was in the Junior Home Economics Club, the Friendship Club, and the Commercial Club. Hazel worked for the Osterud Agency in Spring Valley, and also was the Office Manager for Greenman Heating and Roofing. She was a charter member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, a member of the Lioness, and the Austin Art & Travel Club. Hazel lived in Austin Acres for over 50 years.

Hazel was referred to as Grandma Bunny by her grandchildren. She spread happiness with many residents and staff at Sacred Heart. She was a loving wife, mother and loyal friend.

Hazel is survived by a son, Al (Mary) Greenman, Austin; by a Daughter, Marsha (Rodney) Williams, Little River, S.C.; by a son, Steve (Cheryl) Greenman, Austin, by seven grandchildren: Cassie (Michael) Crosby; Jake Williams; Scott Greenman; Doug (Janet) Greenman; Peter (Stephanie) Greenman; Jacob Greenman; Andrew Greenman; by five great-grandchildren: Dominic Crosby; Jace Greenman; Brady Greenman; Elisa Greenman; Ezra Greenman; by a step-great-grandchild, Bryce Schultz; by her sister, Ethel Cafourek, Austin; by a brother, Raymond Heimsness, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Julius Heimsness and Clara Swenson; by her husband, Clifford Greenman; and by five siblings: Mae Baarsch, Clarice Perkins, Loyl Heimsness, Esther McCourt and Virgil Heimsness.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church with Reverend Glenn Monson officiating. Burial was in the Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

 

Elizabeth “Betty” Hahn, age 90, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 9, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota.

Elizabeth was born on September 1, 1917 to Edgar and Mary (Price) Diddams. Betty was a life long member of our Savior’s Lutheran Church. She was also a long time member of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she served as the secretary for 29 years. Betty was also a member of the Mower Council for the handicapped, and was very involved with the Jerry Lewis telethon for Muscular Dystrophy, where she was a coordinator. Betty was a life long caretaker, first for her father, then for her aunt, husband, and both of her sons.

Betty is survived by a brother, Edgar Diddams; by a brother-in-law, Merle Hahn; and by four sisters-in-law: Pat Hahn, Mary Hahn, Shirley Hahn, and Kay Hahn.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Mary Diddams; by two brothers, Ronald and Harold Diddams, by her husband Gordon Hahn, and by her sons, Joseph and Edgar Hahn.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, with Reverend Glenn Monson officiating. Burial was in the Leroy Cemetery.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

 

Jeremy James Miller, age 28, of Austin, Mower County, died on Saturday, November 10, 2007, at the Austin Medical Center.

Jeremy was born on April 5, 1979 in Austin to David and Linda (Muhlbauer) Miller. He attended school in Austin and was involved in Austin Youth Hockey. Jeremy enjoyed hunting and fishing with his dad and uncles, and trips with his aunt and uncle, camping with his grandpa Jim and spending time with his brother Kyle. Jeremy fought a long hard battle with cystic fibrosis.

Survivors include his parents, David and Linda Miller, Austin; his brother, Kyle Miller, Austin; a special friend, Amber Berhow; and his grandparents: Myrtle Tesdahl, Austin, James Muhlbauer, Austin, and Ruth Muhlbauer, Austin.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Newman Tesdahl and Donald Miller; and by his great-grandmothers, Alma Muhlbauer and Loretta Bissen.

A funeral mass will was celebrated at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin. The casket bearers were: Willie Johnson, William Miller, Walter Schmidt, Brad Miller, Donald Miller and Steve Miller. Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Verlayn J. Helland, 80, of Austin, formerly of Hollandale, Minnesota, died Saturday, November 10, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center.

Verlayn Jane Tveit was born on June 30, 1927 in Scarville, Iowa, the daughter of Ole M. and Anna G. (Hockenson) Tveit. She was baptized at the Salem Lutheran Church in Lake Mills, Iowa and confirmed at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scarville. Verlayn graduated from Scarville High School in 1947.

On July 24, 1949, she married Lester L. Helland in Albert Lea. The couple lived in Albert Lea until 1960 when they moved to Hollandale. Following Lester’s death, Verlayn moved to Austin in 2002. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hollandale, and most recently at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin. She volunteered for the Salvation Army especially around the holidays, working on the kettle campaign and with the Sharing Tree project. She treasured spending time with her many family members, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her four children: Rev. Lloyd (Valerie) Helland, Okawville, Illinois; Larry Helland, Austin; Lonnie (Rose), Spring Valley; and Loren (Eunice Haas) Helland, Fairmont; her grandchildren: Rachel (Tim) Bausch; Joel (Erin) Helland; Ruth Helland; Angi (David Morgan) Helland; and Tanya (Mike) Rumsey; her two great-grandchildren, Mikiah Rumsey and Rebekah Helland; and her sisters, Stella Quisling and Viola (Sylvan) Meling.

Verlayn was preceded in death by her parents; by her husband, Lester; by a son, Lyle; by brothers, Gylven and Orville, and by her sisters: Lyla, Darlene, Margaret, and Elsie.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin. The Rev. Daniel Provost officiated. Burial wasin the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, rural Scarville, Iowa.

The Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. To sign the guest book, go to www.bayviewfuneral.com

 

Florence Marie Lenoch, age 85, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 9, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center.

Forence was born on November 19, 1921 in Melrose, Minnesota, to Frank and Gertrude (Blommel) Deick. Florence graduated from St. Augustine School and, at the age of 55, from Austin Community College.

She was married on May 9, 1942 to Bernard Lenoch; they were later divorced. She worked at the Alcove Supper Club as a waitress and at Eat at Joe’s in the Oak Park Mall as a manager. She was a member of the VFW, the Mower County Senior Center, Florence was also a founder of ARC were she was very active.

Florence is survived by five children: Michael Lenoch, Austin; Diane (Robert) Maresco, Rio Rancho, New Mexico; Jon (Wanda) Lenoch, Austin; Wanette (Rick) Blaser, Maple Grove, Minnesota; Anita (Cerrin) Perkins, Rochester, Minnesota; by 11 grandchildren: Janelle Maresco, Nicole Maresco, Rachel Maresco Imel, Jeffrey Lenoch, Scott Lenoch, Toni Gunderson, Amy Ernster, John Blaser, Holly Blaser, Laura Andersen, Wendi Andersen; by seven great-grandchildren; by six brothers and sisters: Elmer (Judy) Deick, Austin; Joyce Christianson, Phoenix, Arizona; Shirley (Leo) Sayles, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Dick (Arlene) Deick, Edina, Minn.; Gary (Gloria) Deick, Alexandria, Minn.; Nancy Quinn, Vancouver, Canada; by sisters-in-law: Helen (Gilbert) Lenoch, Deer River, Minn.; Mary (Floyd) Lenoch, Austin; and Margaret (Clifford) Lenoch, Austin; and by a brother-in-law, Paul Lenoch, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Gertrude Deick; by her former husband, Bernard Lenoch; and by a son, Steve Lenoch.

Memorial services were held on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, with Father Joe Fogal officiating.

 

David Leonard Pickett, 78, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Thursday, November 8, 2007 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

David was born on June 17, 1929 to Paul and Florence (Nelson) Pickett in Wykoff, Minnesota. As a youngster, he spent most of his life in Fillmore County. Later the family moved to Austin, where David graduated from Austin High School in 1947.

He worked as a farm laborer prior to being drafted into the Army on November 15, 1951. After serving in the Korean War with 38th Infantry Tank Company, Dave was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant on October 31, 1953.

He married Louise Ida Stender on October 30, 1954 in Wykoff. They made their home in Austin where he drove a delivery truck for Marigold Dairy and later for a Canteen company, retiring at age 62. David also attended junior college at night in the auto mechanic program and completed the Dale Carnige course. Dave and Louise were very active members of Grace Lutheran Church. Dave also belonged to American Legion, volunteered at the Salvation Army, worked at Cedar Valley and enjoyed helping farmers drive tractor and milk cows.

Survivors include his wife, Louise Pickett, Austin; his three sons: Allen (Kim) Pickett, Rochester, Minn.; Donald (Deitra) Pickett, Stewartville, Minn.; Timothy (Terri) Pickett, Rochester, Minn.; his daughter, Rebecca (Bradley) Massop, New Hope, Minnesota; nine grandchildren: Donald Jr. “Skip”, Daniel, Katie, Nikki, Jacob, Kristen, Jordyn, Evan and Lauren; one sister: Phyllis (Robert) Schatz, Rogers, Arkansas; and a brother, Paul (Sybil) Pickett, Jr., Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by two sisters, Dorothy and Avis.

Memorial services were held on Monday, November 12, 2007 at Grace Lutheran Church with the Rev. Robert Iverson officiating.

Burial was in Grandview Cemetery south of Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post 91.

The Worlein Funeral Home of Austin was in charge.

 

Birth: Feb. 11, 1918
Death: Nov. 11, 2007

ROCHESTER, MN--The funeral for Thomas E. Griffin will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Christ United Methodist Church in Pine Island; the Revs. Nancy Wheeler Handlon and Greg Strunk will officiate. Interment will be in Pine Island Cemetery.

Mr. Griffin, 89, of Rochester, died Sunday (Nov. 11, 2007) at the Beverly Care Center. Recently, he had been residing at Evergreen Place in Pine Island.

Thomas Edison Griffin was born Feb. 11, 1918, in Owen, Wis. He grew up in West Concord. On March 28, 1943, he married Helen Mae Joslyn in Pine Island. From the early 1950s until 1966, he owned and operated Griffin Pharmacy in Austin, then worked at Ruffalo Drug in Rochester from 1966 to 1969. He took over his father's drug store in West Concord in 1969.

Mr. Griffin earned a Bronze Star for his military service during World War II. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Rochester, and over the years was active in the Rochester Elks Lodge, the West Concord Business Association, Boy Scout troops in Austin and Rochester, and the Austin School Board. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, cooking and baking, and his fruitcakes were sold during holiday fundraisers at the Rochester Repertory Theatre and the West Concord Historical Society.

Survivors include his wife; three sons, Thomas Jr. (fiancee Cindy Leach) of Park Rapids, Minn., David (LaVonne) of Pine Island and Kent of Rochester; two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, William and Charles.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service Thursday at the church.

Johnson Funeral Homes Services of Rochester is in charge of arrangements.

 

William Doty, age 93, of Lake City, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 17, 2007 at the Lake City Nursing Home.

William Ivan Doty was born on September 20, 1914 in Davenport, Iowa, to Daniel and Viola (Pells) Doty. On September 14, 1939 he was united in marriage to Frances V. Pacovsky in Clinton, Iowa. She preceded him in death on October 1, 1993. William worked as a messenger boy in the CCC camps, and later worked at Hormel Foods for over 30 years.

Survivors include his two sons, Richard “Toad” Doty of Austin, and William (Mary) Doty of Lake City; two grandchildren, Brent Doty of Lake City and Heather (Carter) Lekatz of Rochester, Minnesota; and a sister-in-law, Martha Doty of Los Angeles, California.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, by a brother and by a sister.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at Mayer Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Goosen officiating. Burial was in Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

The honorary casket bearer was Lowell Brekke, and the casket bearers were: Brent Doty, Carter Lekatz, Ron Majerus, Mick Brooks, Richard Brekke and Kenny Gilbert.

 

Shirley Hakes, age 71, of Aitkin, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota died on November 15, 2007 at her home in Aitkin.

Shirley V, Bahn was born on May 22, 1936 at Montevideo, Minnesota, the daughter of Alvin and Pauline (Fiene) Bahn. She moved with her family to Springfield, Minnesota, where she attended schools and graduated from the Springfield High School in 1954. She then attended Mankato State Teachers College for two years.

She married Herb Hakes on September 9, 1956 in Springfield, Minnesota. They then lived in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She graduated with a BS degree in Elementary Education, and in 1958 they moved to Fairmount, Minnesota, and then to Winona in 1964. They moved to Austin, where they made their home and raised their family. She taught at the Congregational Nursery School.

In 1990 they moved to Plymouth, Minnesota, where Shirley taught pre-school.

In 1966 they moved to Spirit Lake. While living there she worked as a substitute teacher for the Aitkin School system and taught in the Tiny Tots program. She and her family had started coming to Spirit Lake in 1961.

She was a member of First Lutheran Church in Aitkin; served as a mentor in the Kinship Program; served as a board member for the Friends of the Arts; was instrumental in establishing the Kids Camp at Ruttgers Resort and helped design the new nursery at First Lutheran Church. She was a very project oriented person.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Herb; by her children: Sue Hakes and John Gorskik of Grand Marais, Minnesota; Bob (Gretchen) Hakes of Minneapolis, Minnesota; John (Jennifer) Hakes of Shoreview, Minnesota; by four grandchildren: Meghan, Chris, Allyson and Jacob; by her mother-in-law, Mary Hakes of Aitkin, Minnesota; and by brothers and sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and by a sister, Beverly.

A celebration of Shirley's life was held on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at First Lutheran Church in Aitkin with Rev. Lance Isaacson and Rev. Sarah Cordray officiating. Burial was in the Diamond Lake Cemetery on Wednesday November 21, 2007.

Arrangements were made through Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home in Aitkin. To sign the guest register or leave a message, go to www.srtfuneral.com.

 

Roger Young, 72, of Lake City, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 21, 2007 at the Lake City Hospital Mayo Health Center.

Roger C. Young was born on September 14, 1935 in Austin, Minnesota, to Carl & Mildred (Slupe) Young. He graduated from Austin High School and joined the Army and served during the Korean War.

After Roger was discharged he returned to Austin and married Esther Smith on April 21, 1955, in Austin. Roger worked for Wilson Meat Packing in Austin and he then worked for The United Packing House Workers Union. He was transferred to Phoenix, Arizona, where he continued working for the union. They then moved back to the Twin Cities area where he was involved in the Golden Gloves/ABF Boxing Association. He also worked for AGDVA Union until retiring. He then worked full time with the Golden Gloves and ABF Boxing Association in the Twin Cities. They moved to Lake City in 1995.

Roger is survived by his wife, Esther; by two daughters, PattiJo (Karl) Corey of Winona, and MonaJodell Young of Winona; by a son, Chad (Lynn) Young of Fort Worth, Texas; by four granddaughters; by three great-grandchildren; by three sisters: Marylyn (Warren) Bateman of Magic Valley, N.C.; Susan (Harold) Helleck of Rochester, Minnesota; and Lynn Nomann of Rochester; by a brother, Brian Young of Austin.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 24, 2007 at the Mahn Family Funeral Home Anderson-Peterson Chapel in Lake City.

 

Edward E. Young, 77, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, November 19, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center.

Edward Eugene Young was born on November 2, 1930, to Joseph and Minnie (Wunderly) Young in St. Louis, Missouri.

On June 10, 1951 he married Charlene Carey at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Long Beach, California. They made their home in Santa Ana, California for 18 years prior to moving to Austin, Minn. in 1969.

Edward was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church where he served as an usher for many years. He was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed traveling with his family. Edward enjoyed helping others and offered his help before it was asked for.

Edward was an auto mechanic at Bill Corwin Ford in Orange, California, and also at Jim Lebens Fordtown in Austin. He served in the Navy and trained as an electrician. His many talents were unlimited. He enjoyed carpentry, working on cars and many building projects he successfully completed. Edward was an avid collector of clocks and he enjoyed restoring them. He was blessed with many talents that we are thankful for.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Charlene, of Austin; his children: David (Gloria), Yuma, Arizona; Robert, Alva, Florida; Mary (Bill) Thompson, Wahkon, Minnesota; James, Zephyrhills, Florida; Tina Young (Troy), Austin; Annette (Mike) Huffman, Austin; and Edward Jr. (Michelle), Austin.

He was preceded in death by a son, Patrick, and by his parents, Joseph Young and Minnie Young.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Saturday, November 24, 2007 at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, AUstin, Minnesota.

The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Kenneth Thomson, 69, of Little Falls, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 19, 2007, at Nouis Care Center in Little Falls.

Kenneth Niles Thomson was born on September 20, 1938 to Carl O. and Leda Gladys (Jacobson) Thomson at Preston, Minnesota. He moved to Austin as a child where he graduated from Austin High School in 1956. He attended Austin Junior College before entering the United States Army. After his discharge, Kenneth attended Winona State University and later graduated from the University of San Francisco. He taught school in North Dakota, before moving to Rochester and then to Little Falls in 1992. He loved to read and enjoyed reading to residents at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

He is survived by a brother, Carlton (Muriel) Thomson, Austin; by a sister, Lyla (Vince) Bisbee, Antioch, Illinois; by seven nieces and nephews: Jim (Pat) Thomson, Bob (Kathy) Thomson, John (Sarah) Thomson, Barb (Todd) Anderson, Cathy (Chuck) Herman, Cynthia (Jon) Olson and Paul (Becky) Thomson; also by several great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by a brother, Rev. Allen Thomson; and by two nephews, David Thomson and David Bisbee, and by a niece, Patricia Thomson.

A funeral service was held on Friday, November 23, 2007, at Grace Lutheran Church, Austin. Interment, with Flag Presentation by American Legion Post #91, was at Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

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

 

Roeurm Mao, age 41, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, and formerly of Stockton, California, died on November 18, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester. She was born July 2, 1966 in Bathambong, Cambodia, to Mao Nin and Nga Sin. She grew up in Cambodia and moved to Stockton, Calif. in 1986 where she married Sy Thongsy. She moved to Austin in 1998 where she worked at Quality Pork Processors. She was also a singer for wedding celebrations. Roeurm enjoyed life, fishing and camping with her family.

Survivors include two daughters, Marivan Mao, Stockton, California, and Sovannary Ong, Long Beach, California; one son, Sovannarath Ong, Austin, Minnesota; her parents Mao Non and Nga Nin, Stockton; four brothers: Ban (Vann Sokhorn) Mao; Ben (Phan Iv); Boeurn Mao; and Saky (Savy Savery) Mao. all of Washington; two sisters, Phop Mao, Stockton, and Rem (Mom Chor) Mao, Washington; an uncle and an aunt, Sovannak and Phorn, both of Washington state.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sy, in August of 2007.

Funeral services were held on Friday November 23, 2007 at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

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

 

#1:

Joseph Emil Sternhagen, 87, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 18, 2007 at the Adams Healthcare Center.

Joseph was born on December 6, 1919 in Dante, South Dakota, to Joseph F. and Christine (Merkwan) Sternhagen.

On March 9, 1940 he married Pearl Pitcock in Northwood, Iowa. Joe served in the Navy in the South Pacific during World War II where he received three Purple Hearts and several other medals. He farmed for many years in the Rose Creek area while also running Austin Spraying Service.

Joe retired from Hormel Foods after 44 years. Joe and Pearl moved into Rose Creek where they ran a family plasterware business. They went to Goose Lake in the summers for many years where Joe helped run the resort and spent many years fishing. In October 2005 they retired and moved to Our House in Austin.

Survivors include his wife, Pearl Sternhagen, Austin; their children: Bev (Roger) Brua, McHenry, Illinois; Pat (Paul) Weis, Rose Creek, Minnesota; Joe (Mary) Sternhagen, Rochester, Minnesota; Kevin (Cheryl) Sternhagen, Wyoming, Minnesota; Lona (Roman) Stec, Wacounda, Illinois; 16 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; two sisters, Evelyn Soukup, Tyndal, South Dakota; and Ione Karolevitz, Tabor, South Dakota; two brothers, Ray (Deloris) Sternhagen, Albert Lea, Minnesota, and Don (Jan) Sternhagen, Dante, South Dakota; and two sisters-in-law, Polly Sternhagen, Dante, South Dakota; and Rebecca Pitcock, St. Charles, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, by two brothers, and by a granddaughter.

A funeral mass will was celebrated on Wednesday, November 21, 2007, at St. Peter's Catholic Church. There was an evening wake service on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment was in St. Peter's Cemetery.

The honorary casket bearers will be grandchildren. The casket bearers will be: Roger John Brua, Jason Weis, Joe Sternhagen, Jeremy Sternhagen, Cory Gaul and Robert Brua.

 

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#2:

News obituary: The Navy sweetheart

Austin Daily Herald
By KATIE JOHNSON

Joseph Sternhagen sent his wife, Pearl, his heart when he was at war in the South Pacific.

After shooting down a Japanese kamikaze, he crafted Pearl a necklace using the windshield of the downed plane for a heart, with a picture of the young couple placed in the middle.

Decades later, Joseph's eyes would swell with tears when recounting how he had discovered that kamikaze was a woman.

"He believed you should treat ladies with respect," Pearl said. "I had the most wonderful man in the world. Nobody could have been happier. Times were different then."

She and Joseph married in 1940, when she was barely 17 and he was 20. "I asked him, ‘How much money do you have?" He took a stick of gum and 10 cents out of his pocket," Pearl said.

The couple lived in a garage on Oakland Avenue East. Joseph worked at Hormel Foods before enlisting in the Navy during World War II at age 21. "He knew he was going to be called, and he wanted to be in the Navy," Pearl said.

Joseph served as a ship laundryman and gunner, and participated in the first carrier strike on Formosa.

When Joseph was serving from his base in California, Pearl left Austin to be with her husband.

"I hadn't even been out of Mower County, and it took four days to get there," she said.

Pearl worked in a department store for awhile before returning to the Austin area because Joseph was gone at sea for an extended period of time. During his service from August 1943 through November 1945, he became a decorated WWII veteran, earning three Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star and other awards and medals. He sustained injuries including one to his ear which caused hearing loss.

"He really did have a lot of pride about serving his country," Pearl said. Joseph's family had the rare opportunity to share his memories of the Navy in 2001, when one of his sons located his ship, the U.S.S. Cassin Young, docked in Boston and available for veteran tours.

All five children and their spouses traveled with Pearl and Joseph for an exclusive ride on the ship, still listed as "active."

"There was a whole crew saluting my father," daughter Pat Weis said. "It was so cool to walk in the steps my father did."

"We were a family, and we always did so much together," Pearl said. One of Joseph's grandsons wanted to follow in his grandfather's footsteps, serving in the Iraq war.

"He wanted to do what Grandpa did," Pat said. "I think after he came back, he realized how difficult it was."

After the war, Joseph returned home to his wife, retiring from Hormel in 1973 with a disability. He kept busy with his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, started a plaster business, and tended to his beloved flowers.

Even after moving into Our House Assisted Living, Joseph cared for the flower beds.

"He was a wonderful man," Pearl said. "We would sit and visit like a couple old ladies.

"It isn't easy, even now. I have to get up and keep walking. Life goes on," she said.

 

Margueritte Hessenius, 89, of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at Siloam Springs Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

"Peg" Varney was born on September 20, 1918 in Brownsdale, Mower County, Minnesota. She was the daughter of George Varney and Carrye (Bulson) Varney. Peg married Edward Hessenius on December 2, 1939 in Iowa. She was a charter member of the Grace Baptist Church in Austin, Minnesota. Peg worked as a receptionist for Dr. Childers Eye Clinic.

She is survived by her husband Edward of Siloam Springs; by a son, Larry Hessenius of Siloam Springs; by two daughters, Linda (John) Henry, and Sandy (Darrel) Scott, both of Siloam Springs; by six grandchildren: Steve Henry of Siloam Springs, Connie Greenlee of Rogers, Arkansas, Angel Garrett of Webb City, Missouri, Kristine Henry of Siloam Springs, Valerie Collinsworth of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Carrie Landolt of Siloam Springs; by fifteen great-grandchildren, by one great-great-grandchild; and by a sister, Loraine Melder of Hayfield, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and by one brother, Orville Varney.

Graveside services were held on Friday, November 23, 2007, at Oak Hill Cemetery, Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Arrangements were by Wasson Funeral Home, Inc., Siloam Springs, Arkansas. To sign the online guest book, visit www.wassonfuneralhome.com.

 

Jeanine Louise Lenway, age 67, of Austin, Minnesota, died on November 23, 2007 at the Austin Medical Center.

Jeanine was born on February 27, 1940, in Spring Valley, Minnesota, to Erwin and Adeline (Bicknese) Harrison.

She married John F. Lenway at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. They were married for nearly 50 years. Jeanine waitressed for many years then worked as a youth counselor until she was overcome with Multiple Sclerosis. She was diagnosed with M.S. in 1971, and also survived a bout with breast cancer in 2002. She was also an eye donor. She provided childcare for many children, and she was recently a homemaker.

Survivors include her husband, John Lenway, Austin; her children: Joe (RaeAnn) Lenway, Eagan; Tom (Diane) Lenway, Austin; John Lenway II, Austin; Dan (Jessica) Lenway, Austin; Lisa (Scott) Bellrichard, Austin; 11 grandchildren: Chantal, Nicole, Sarah, Jordan, Dominique, Eric, Andy, Haley, Emma, Taylor and Kaylie; and her siblings: Neal (Patsy) Bicknese, Casper, Wyoming; Lois Kay (Steve) Hellams, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Ross Harrison, Winona, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Adeline Bicknese Harrison, and by her father, Erwin Harrison.

A memorial mass was celebrated on Tuesday, November 27, 2007, at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota. The urn bearers were her grandchildren. The casket bearers were Terry Nelsen, Patrick Nelsen, Svenn Sollid Jr., David Sollie, Jake Nelsen and Christine Nelsen. The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Kathleen M. “Kay” Nelsen, age 88, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 24, 2007 at her home.

Kay was born on August 3, 1919, in Waseca, Minnesota, the daughter of Charles and Marie Hogan. She moved to Austin as a child and graduated from St. Augustine High School with the class of 1936. In May of 1945 Kay married Maurice “Mo” Nelsen in Washington D.C. They made their home in Austin where they raised their family. Kay was employed as a secretary at Austin Community College for many years and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Philomathian Club. She was a volunteer with both the Sacred Heart Hospice and the St. Olaf Hospital Auxiliary. Kay was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Survivors include four children: Terry (Connie) Nelsen, Austin; Patrick Nelsen, Austin; Kathy (Svenn) Sollid, Austin; Mary Beth (David) Sollie, Aurora; Colorado; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and by her husband on May 18, 1984.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Wednesday, November 28, 2007, at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 

Durwood Dean Meyer, 76, of Owatonna, Minnesota, died on November 21, 2007, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Durwood was born on May 16, 1931 in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, to Herbert and Willetta (Hanson) Meyer. He graduated from Austin High School in 1949 and married Audrey Hemmer in 1951. Durwood served in the army for two years, including time spent in Germany.

For many years, he was employed as an auto parts salesman for Motor Supply in Owatonna, Minn. He retired in 1999. That same year, he married Beth Slocum, his wife and soulmate for the last eight years.

Durwood was a member of Trinity Lutheran church in Owatonna, where he served as a member of the Internship Committee.

Durwood is survived by his wife, Beth Meyer, of Owatonna; by a son, Richard Meyer, of Owatonna; by a brother, Loren (Margaret) Meyer, of St. Ansgar, Iowa; and by two sisters, Marilyn (Leo) Murphy, of Sacramento, California, and Carolyn (Michael) Gautschi, of Andover, Minnesota.

He is remembered by friends and family members for his good humor, his generosity, and his courage when confronting his illness.

A memorial service was held on Monday, November 26, 2007 at Michaelson Funeral Home, 1930 Austin Road, in Owatonna. V

 

Paul Robert Losey, Sr., 87, of Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minnesota, died on November 22, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Paul was born on November 28, 1919 in Fountain, Minnesota to John and Sarah (Malia) Losey. He graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1938 and then went to work for Hormel Foods in Austin, Minnesota.

On September 7, 1940 Paul married Kathryn Skaran in Spring Valley, Minnesota. He then entered the United States Army. After being honorably discharged from the army, he went back to work for Hormel where he worked for 36 years. While Paul worked at Hormel he also farmed in the rural Spring Valley area for 25 years after which he put in 14 years at Featherlite Graphics in Grand Meadow.

Paul was a life member of the Spring Valley VFW and a member of the Spring Valley and Grand Meadow Legion.

He is survived by his three children: Sharon Walterman, Austin, Texas; Paul “Bob” (Colleen) Losey, Jr., Grand Meadow, Minnesota; and Vance Losey, Spring Valley, Minnesota; by ten grandchildren; by 12 great-grandchildren; and by five great-great-grandchildren.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, by four brothers, and by one sister.

Memorial Services were held on Monday, November 26, 2007 at St. Finbarr Catholic Church in Grand Meadow, Minnesota. Burial was in the Grand Meadow Cemetery. There were military rites at the cemetery. The Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow was in charge of arrangements.

 

Paul J. Meany, age 48, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, died on Wednesday, November 21, 2007 at his home.

Paul was born on March 5, 1959 in Austin, Minnesota, to John and Novella (Castle) Meany. He began farming at an early age, and farmed until the time of his death.

He is survived by his two children, Grant Francis Meany, and Becky (Rebecca) Jo Meany, both of Rose Creek, Minnesota; by a stepson, Derek Berndt, Austin, Minnesota; by his parents, John and Novella Meany, Rose Creek; by two brothers, Brian (Peg) Meany, Mason City, Iowa, and Mark (Lyn) Meany, Rose Creek; by three sisters: Lynne (Jeff) Warne, Nashville, Tennessee; Ann (Tom) Bastian, Houston, Texas; and Beth (Kris) Jungels, Rochester, Minnesota; and by his former spouse, Cindy Meany, Rose Creek, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 26, 2007 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rose Creek, Minnesota. Burial was in St. Peter's Cemetery. A prayer service was held at 7 p.m. on Sunday evening at Mayer Funeral Home. His children Grant, Becky and Derek were urn bearers.