OBITUARY: [Austin Daily Herald, Friday, February 5, 1915, page 3, column 1.]

Mrs. Johanna Marie Johnson was born in the parish of Fjeldberg, Sonhordland, Norway, July 16th, 1825,and passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. N. S. Gravdahl, near Adams Tuesday morning, February 2, 1915.

She was married to John Christi Johnson June 16, 1847. They came to Adams June 24th 1861 and located on Section 8, Township of Adams. Her husband died January 24th, 1901. In the fall of 1905 she moved to Adam sand made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Ida Olson for five and one-half years. later she moved to the home of her daughter, Mrs. N. Gravdahl, where she stayed until ther time of her death.

In her wedlock have been born twelve children. Of these nine we reborn in Norway, Two of the children died in Norway and two passed away after the family had located in Adams. A sister, Mrs. Ingeborg Severson, Norway, and the following children are the only near relatives surviving her. Mrs .Ida Olson, Mrs. Jacob Knutson, J. R. Johnson, N. C. Johnson, Mrs. Nils Anderson, Mrs. Nils Gravdahl, all of Adams, Axel Johnson of Minneapolis, and J. C. Johnson, Jr., Aberdeen, S. D.

She had been in good health until the last two years, when she became afflicted with diabetes, and in her advanced age was unable to withstand the disease.

The funeral was held Saturday from Little Cedar Lutheran church, of which she had always been a member. Rev. Myhre officiated.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by Jim Johnson - Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

James C. Clark, a brother of Ed Clark of this city, and formerly living in Austin, died Friday morning at the city hospital in Minneapolis. About seven weeks ago he was hurt by the fall of an elevator in Minneapolis and his backbone was fractured. He was paralyzed below the waist. Funeral was held in Minneapolis Saturday afternoon.

Interment in Hillside cemetery. Deceased was familiarly known here as Clint Clark. He was born in Wisconsin and was 60 years old. He came to Austin when a lad. He was for years on the Milwaukee road.

He married Miss Addie Corning of Austin, a sister of Mrs. W. H. Adams.

He leaves a wife and two daughters, Ora and Zulu. He moved from Austin about twenty years ago.

Mower County Transcript [Mower County, Minnesota] 4 August 1909

Submitted to MNGenWeb by Kathy Pike - Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

AUSTIN -- Wilfred "Bill" Pike, 79, of Route 5, Austin, retired owner of Pike Transportation & Car Wash, died Monday (Feb. 15,1993) at Scottsdale Memorial North Hospital in Scottsdale, Ariz. He and his wife were spending the winter in Mesa, Ariz.

Born May 25, 1913, in Sargeant, he attended Brownsdale and Austin schools and graduated from Rose Creek High School. On Dec. 22, 1938, he married Edith Hartson at her parents' home in Brownsdale. He was a member of Fellowship United Methodist Church and a charter member of the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association.

Survivors include his wife; three sons, Larry of Bakersfield, Calif., Lowell of Brownsdale and Stanley ofAkron, Ohio; three grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; and a sister, Nellie (Mrs. Clarence) Johnson of Brownsdale. Two sisters preceded him in death.

The funeral will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Fellowship United Methodist Church inAustin, with the Rev. David Lieder officiating. Spring burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin and an hour before the service Saturday at the church.

Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike -- Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Edith C. Pike, 87, of Austin, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

She was born Jan. 13, 1916, in Fredricksburg,Iowa, to Namon and Bessie (Zipse) Hartson. She graduated from Austin High School.

On Dec. 22, 1937, she married Wilfred "Bill" Pike in Brownsdale. Together they owned and operated Pike's Transportation and Pike's Family Car Wash.

Edith was a member of Brownsdale United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School and was the church organist for many years. She remained in her home in Brownsdale until she moved to St. Mark's Lutheran Home on June 22, 2000.

Survivors include son, Stanley Pike, Akron, Ohio; daughter-in-law, Judy Pike, Brownsdale; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1993; sons, Larry and Lowell Pike; and four brothers.

Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. today, Feb. 26, 2003, at the mortuary and Thursday at the church for one hour before the service. Service: 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Brownsdale United Methodist Church with the Rev. James Hodak officiating. Casket bearers will be Richard Pike, David Pike, Marvin Foster,James Hartson, Randy Hartson and Jack Brennan. Interment: Greenwood Cemetery, Brownsdale. Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike -- Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

AUSTIN -- Larry W. Pike, 54, of Bakersfield, Calif., formerly of the Austin-Brownsdale area, died Saturday (Oct. 29, 1994) at University Medical Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, of injuries suffered in a car accident.

Born Oct. 8, 1940, in Austin, he graduated from Austin High School and attended college in Santa Barbara, Calif. He was a teacher in Bakersfield.

Survivors include a daughter, Lisa (Mrs. Bill) Kubczak of Milwaukee, Wis.; three granddaughters; his mother, Edith C. Pike of Austin; and a brother, Stanley of Canton, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his father and a brother.

There will be a memorial service at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel in Austin with the Rev. David Lieder officiating. A private burial service will be conducted in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike -- Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

BROWNSDALE, MINN. -- The memorial service for Lowell K. Pike, 50, of Brownsdale, will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Brownsdale United Methodist Church with the Rev. James Beyer officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

Mr. Pike died Wednesday (Sept. 29, 1993) in an airplane accident.

He was born April 9, 1943, in Austin, and grew up in the area, graduating from Austin High School. He married Judith Farrell March 12, 1966, in Brownsdale. They owned and operated Pike Plaza and Pike Transportation and Car Wash. He was a member of Brownsdale United Methodist Church.

Mr. Pike is survived by his wife; two sons, Richard of Austin and David of Brownsdale; his mother, Edith Pike of Austin; and two brothers, Larry of Bakersfield, Calif., and Stanley of Canton, Ohio.

Friends may call at the Brownsdale United Methodist Church from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m Tuesday and an hour before the service.

The family suggests memorials to donors choice.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike -- Jan. 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Frederick Pitzen, 68, of Stacyville, Mitchell County, Iowa, died on Tuesday, January 1, 2008, at the home of his brother, Steve, in Adams, Minnesota, following a short battle with cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 4, 2008, at the Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville. Burial will be in the Visitation Catholic Cemetery in Stacyville with military honors at the grave by Stacyville American Legion Post 569.

Frederick Nicholas Pitzen was born on August 4, 1939, in Stacyville, Iowa, the third son of Sylvester and Dorothy (Coan) Pitzen. He graduated from Visitation High School in 1957 and attended Loras College for two years before entering the U.S. Army for another two years. He worked for Hatten and Sons Plumbing and Heating before becoming part owner and operator of the Stacyville LP Gas Company. He later became the sole owner and operator of the company. He also owned land and raised Murray Grey cattle east of town.

Nick was active in many community and church activities. He served his community in many capacities; as mayor, long term council member, Community Club officer and club member. He also served as a member of the Visitation Church Board of Directors.

He was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and Stacyville American Legion Post 569. Nick played an active role in the planning and development of local public affairs.

Survivors include two brothers, Tom Pitzen of Stacyville, and Steve (Diane) Pitzen of Adams, Minnesota; a sister, Mary Ellen (Gary) McGlashing of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; eleven nieces and nephews: Brian, Kathy, Greg, Joanna and Andrea Pitzen of San Diego, California, Kent (Wendy) Pitzen of Clear Lake, Sarah (Jim) (Pitzen) Douty of Adams, Minnesota, Janel Pitzen of Owatonna, Minnesota, Brad (Tammy) Pitzen of River Falls, Wisconsin, and Jenny (Brad) (McGlashing) Johnson and Tim McGlashing of Cedar Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and by a brother, Capt. John R. Pitzen, U.S.N.

Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements -- 641-732-3706.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Charles Lockie, age 88, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, and formerly of Osage, Mitchell County, Iowa, died on Saturday, December 29, 2007, at his home in Austin.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 5, 2008, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage.

Burial will be at the Osage Cemetery with military honors at the grave by Osage V.F.W. Post 7920.

He was born on March 30, 1919, at Cutbank, Montana, the son of George and Ada (Sumpter) Lockie.

His family moved to Riceville and he graduated from Riceville High School in 1937. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in North Africa and Italy and received a Purple Heart.

He was united in marriage to Dorothy Regan on September 19, 1944. He was a district sales manager for Moorman Feed Company in the Osage area. They then lived in Arizona, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Austin, Minnesota. Charles' hobbies included building houses and boats. He also enjoyed ballroom dancing.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Lockie of Austin, Minnesota; a son, Michael (Janet) Lockie of Austin, Minnesota; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by a sister, Urainia Thompson; and by a daughter, Michelle Hodina.

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

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Betty Jean Smith, age 83, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, passed away on January 3, 2008 at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

Betty was born March 18, 1924 in Austin to Ingaborg and Louis Nielsen (Nelson). Her parents were Danish immigrants.

Betty was the 10th child of 15 children. She graduated from Austin High School in 1943, and was the first female class president of a graduating class. After graduation, Betty was diagnosed with T.B., she spent the next two years of her life at a sanitarium in Cannon Falls, Minn. Upon her return home she was married to Joseph N. Smith, her high school sweetheart. Betty worked at numerous offices in Austin, Loman Clinic and the Hormel Offices were some. Betty and Joe had one child, a son, Bradley J Smith.

Betty is survived by her husband: Joe Smith, Austin, Minn.; son: Bradley Smith, Austin, Minn.; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, a sister: Joyce Anderson, Austin, Minn. and a half-brother: John (Doreen) Evenson, Woodbine, Ga.; sister-in-law: Blanche Nelson; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Jan. 7, 2008 at Westminster Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Andrew Lindahl Officiating. Interment will be at a later date. Visitation will be at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Monday for one hour before the service.

©Austin Daily Herald online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Viola Lonergan, 76, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, died Friday, Jan. 4, 2008 at Adams Health Care Center.

Viola was born January 28, 1931 in Northwood, Worth County, Iowa to Martin and Mabel (Helgeson) Myre. Viola attended Northwood Country School and graduated from Northwood High School.

On Sept. 4, 1949, she married Mahlon (Pete) Lonergan at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Kensett, Iowa.

Viola was a member of Little Cedar Lutheran Church where she was a member of the church circle. Viola made drapes for many years.

Viola is survived by her husband, Mahlon (Pete) Lonergan, Rose Creek, Minn.; children: Vincent Lonergan, Chicago, Illinois, Colleen (Joe) Krebsbach, Adams, Minn., Curt (Pam) Lonergan, Rose Creek, Minn.; grandchildren: Travis (Kelli) Krebsbach, Adams, Minn., Krystal (Justin) Bissen, St. Ansgar, Iowa, Candice Krebsbach, Stacyville, Iowa, Adam Lonergan, Rose Creek, Minn., Dustin Lonergan, Rose Creek, Minn., Jonas Lonergan, Rose Creek, Minn., Gina Lonergan and fiance Bobby Jax, St. Paul, Minn.; great grandchildren: Dylan Bissen, Mason Bissen, Ayden Bissen; sisters: Marcella (Vernon) Smith, Adams, Minn., Alice (Marvell) Brunsvold, Northwood, Iowa and twin sister: Violet (Wesley) Dahl, Mason City, Iowa, and many nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, Jan. 7, 2008 at Little Cedar Lutheran Church with the Rev. Shari Mason officiating. Interment will be in the Little Cedar Lutheran Cemetery in Adams, Mower County, Minnesota.

©Austin Daily Herald Online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Clinton Grant Able, 40, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Saturday, December 29, 2007.

Clint was born August 8, 1967 in Madera, Calif. He was raised in Dodson, Montana, where he attended school. He suffered a spinal cord injury at age 23 as a result of a skiing accident. Clint has had numerous jobs throughout his life including ranching, logging, and hotel management. He had also owned and operated a painting business and an antique and candy store in Sturgeon Lake, Minn.

He married Carolyn Anderson on Aug. 17, 2004 in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. They lived in Austin, where he had his own business working on small engines and other repairs. He also worked in a rental business, repairing equipment and also in customer service at Zareba Systems in Ellendale. Clint loved old cars, Clint Eastwood and other western movies, steam engines, camping, the great outdoors, working in his shop and spending time with his many friends and family. Clint was a very hard worker, and had an especially caring and loving heart. He was always willing to help someone out in need. He was proud of his family and loved them very much.

Survivors include his wife, Carolyn K. Able, Austin; son, Clinton G. Able, III, Denham, Minn.; stepsons, Ryan Anderson and Jordan Anderson, Austin; step-daughter, Stephanie Anderson, Mankato, father and stepmother, Clinton (Violet) Able, Malta, Mont.; mother, Mary Alice Ereaux, Havre, Mont.; sisters, Sherry Carlson (Chris), Sturgeon Lake, Minn., Jody Marie (Spencer) Simanton, Mont., Alice (Francis) Arnold, Mont., Cindy Lee (David) Stevens, Minnesota; brothers John Arnold, Minnesota, Joe Sandgren, Wisconsin; and numerous nephews and nieces.

A memorial service were held on Sunday, January 6, 2008 at Cornerstone Church in Austin.

©Austin Daily Herald Online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Vickie Pauline Eastburn, 81, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Thursday morning, Jan. 3, 2008 at Austin Medical Center. She was born September 16, 1926 to Peter and Hilda (Gunderson) Borgesen in Austin. Vickie attended Austin High School before moving to California to work supporting the war effort, building airplanes as well as working in USO clubs with her sister, singing and dancing.

Vickie married Russell Thomas Eastburn on June 7, 1945 in San Diego, Calif. They returned to Minnesota after the war in 1946, opening Eastburn Floor Finishing and Ceramic Tile where she worked as a home interior designer. In 1949, Vicki began selling carpet from her store, Eastburn House of Carpets. Vickie and Russell were later divorced. Russell died on June 11, 2000, the same year that Vickie retired at age 74. She belonged to Eagles and American Legion Auxiliary.

Survivors include one son, Russell (Marie) Eastburn, East Bethel; three daughters, Lynette (Gary) Loecher, Austin, Monica Eastburn Waltz, Owatonna, Kristine (Russell) Tuchek, Austin; 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; one sister, Esther (Andrus) Severson, Brainerd; long-time companion, Merle Burton, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hilda and Peter Borgesen; by her ex-husband, Russell; by sisters, Pearl "Judy" and Shirley; brothers, Byron "Bud" Borgesen and Stanley Borgesen.

Services will be held on Monday, January 7, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Visitation is from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, at Worlein Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial is at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.

©Austin Daily Herald Online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Terrance Allen "Terry" Garness, age 65 of Austin, died on Tuesday, January 1, 2008, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted County, Minnesota.

Terry was born April 27, 1942 to Edwin and Ruth (Nash) Garness in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, where he graduated from high school in 1960. He joined the United States Navy in September, serving for six years. A member of Reconnaissance Attack Squadron Five on USS America (CVA-66) his duty stations included San Diego, California and Naples, Italy. He was honorably discharged in 1966.

Terry married Karen Berg on January 28, 1967 at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. He worked at Agape House in Austin, Minn. and also at Hormel Foods for eight years. A member of Grace Lutheran Church, he served on the Church Council. He was active in AA.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Garness, Austin, Minn.; a son, Vince (Jennifer) Garness, Rochester, Minn.; a daughter, Lisa (Darvey) Rietmann, Rochester, Minn.; three grandchildren: Rachel, Ashley and Alaina; his father, Edwin Garness, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; one brother: Steven Garness, Spearfish, S. D.; and a brother-in-law, James Rysavy, Austin, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Garness; by a sister, Carol Rysavy; and by a sister-in-law, Valerie Garness.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Robert Iverson officiating. Interment was at First Lutheran Cemetery, rural Blooming Prairie with military rites by American Legion Post 91. The Worlein Funeral Home in Austin was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Isabelle K. Hawkins, 94, of Austin, died Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.

Isabelle Katherine Cauchy was born on July 11, 1913 in Greaney, Minn. to George and Anna Cauchy. Isabelle's father George worked for the sawmill and her mother Anna was a housewife.

Isabelle was the third child of five. As a child, she grew a love for animals. Isabelle and her family lived out in the country and she remembers having to walk one mile to church every Sunday. She finished school through the 10th grade and one day in the 11th.

When Isabelle was 19 she married Fred Hawkins. Fred worked as a forester. They had one daughter, Donna. Fred built a home for his family in Bena, Minn. One time Fred found a fawn in the woods. He brought it home and Isabelle cared for "Deerie." Sixteen years later they divorced and Isabelle moved to Grand Rapids, Minn., and worked at the hospital in the laundry department. When Isabelle retired she moved to Austin.

Isabelle became a resident at St. Marks Lutheran Home in January 2003 after a fall. Her favorite activities were bowling, bingo, reading and doing word searches.

Survivors include her daughter, Donna Johnson, Austin; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a niece and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four siblings; and her son-in-law, Loren Johnson.

Memorial services were held on Friday, January 4, 2008 at St. Marks Lutheran Home with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment will be later in Calvary Cemetery.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

©Austin Daily Herald Online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mary Lee Ulwelling, age 58, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on January 1, 2008 at Comforcare in Austin. Mary was born Jan. 15, 1949 to William and Mildred (Ellenbaum) Williamson in Austin, where she grew up and attended school. She married Paul Ulwelling on July 12, 1999 in Las Vegas, Nev. They made their home on a farm near Dexter. An active member of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mary enjoyed gardening, decorating and crafting. She loved her family and friends and traveling with her husband. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her husband, Paul; five daughters, Brittany Tuinder, Dexter, Susan (Ramon) Crews, Waltham, Sandy (Roger Crews) Ulwelling, Waltham, Sharon (Carmon) Siewert, Austin, Sheila (Richard) Hemann, Austin; mother, Mildred Williamson, Austin; 12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; four brothers, Richard (Vicki) Williamson, Greeley, Colo.; Douglas (Kim) Williamson, Austin; David (Linda) Williamson, Adams; Charles (Marsha) Williamson, Austin; two sisters, Betty (Gary) Byers, Pueblo West, Colo.; Geraldine Magda, Austin; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father; two sons, Gerald Duane Tuinder and Dale Ulwelling; two sisters, Carol Cumpian and Gloria Huffman.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Interment was in Dexter Cemetery.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Irene S. "Hoppy" Adams, 98, of Austin died Monday, December 31, 2007 at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center, Austin.

She was born Jan. 25, 1909 in German Valley, Iowa to Theodore and Matilda Smith. Irene was employed as a nurse's aid at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin and was married to Delbert B. Adams on Sept. 29, 1951 in Austin. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Adams' enjoyed many outdoor activities including camping, hunting and fishing. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, doing crafts and was an excellent cook and baker.

She was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Bishop Mark White Officiating. Interment will be in the Grandview Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. and at the church for one hour before the service on Thursday.

Irene is survived by her spouse, Delbert B. Adams, Austin; son, Marlen (Betty) Dingman, Mo.; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

©Austin Daily Herald Online, (Jan. 6, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

James Clifford Blower, age 66, of Austin, died at St. Mark's Lutheran Home on December 31, 2007. He was born April, 6 1941 to Clifford and Adeline (Douglas) Blowers in Mankato, Minnesota. Jim grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School in 1959. He moved to Eau Claire, Wis. in 1968, where he made his home until 1988 when he moved back to Austin. He was a real estate agent and property appraiser. A member of the DFL and Jaycees in Tomah, Wis., he was a volunteer at the Eau Claire hospital.

Survivors include his mother, Adeline Blowers, Austin; one daughter, Sandy (David) Kropacek, Blaine; three grandchildren, Sam, Noah and Hattie Kropacek; two brothers, John (Joyce) Blowers, Farmington; William “Bill” Blowers, Austin; one sister, Betty Svendsen, Fort Collins, Colo.; many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clifford Blowers.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Austin, with the Reverend William Natzke officiating. Worlein Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Apr. 25, 1908
Death: Mar. 2, 1992

AUSTIN, MINN.-- Margaret M. Horstmann, 83, a resident of Burr Oak Manor in Austin and a retired restaurant and bar owner, died Monday at the nursing home.

Born Margaret M. Logan on April 25, 1908, in Pelican Rapids, Minn., she married Henry R. Horstmann on Dec. 10, 1928, in Marshall, Minn. The couple owned and operated restaurants and bars in several Minnesota locations, including in London, Brownsdale, Iona and Adams. They moved to St. Petersburg, Fla,. after their retirement in 1960. Her husband died in 1972. Mrs. Horstmann returned to Austin in 1985 and resided at Pickett Place until entering the nursing home a few weeks ago.

Survivors include a daughter, Jacquelyn (Mrs. Joe) Pike of Brownsdale; a son, Jack of Austin; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Muriel (Mrs. Bud) Bruns of Mauston, Wis., and Betty (Mrs. Arnold) Erickson of Pelican Rapids. A granddaughter, a sister and a brother preceded her indeath.

There will be a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel in Austin, with the Rev. Joe Matt officiating. Spring burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

There will be no visitation.

Submitted to MNGenWeb 1/08 by Kathy Pike

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

John M. Johnson, oldest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Nels Johnson, was born at Adams, Minnesota, Sept. 7 1885. He was baptized and confirmed in the Little Cedar Lutheran Church and received his early education in the rural school, later attending the Southern Minnesota Normal College at Austin and St. Olaf College at Northfield, Minn.

He worked on his father's farm three mile three miles west of Adams until the year 1908 and since then has resided at Minneapolis, where he has been affiliated with the State Railroad and Warehouse Commission, acting in the capacity of grain weight master and in recent years as state scale inspector.

In November 1915 he was united in marriage to Agnes Johnson of Windom, Minnesota, who preceded him in death five years ago. An only son, Harold died of wounds received in action on September 20, 1944. live yearn ago. An only son, Harold died of wounds received in action on September 20, 1944 at Lunaville, France.

Mr Johnson has been in failing health for the last year and a half and it was in May of this year he was forced to retire from his work. He passed away at his home on Monday evening, Nov. 5, 1945 at the age of 60 years and 2 months.

He is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Ed J. Johnson of Portland, Oregon; Mrs. L. E. Knutson of Seattle, Wash; Mrs. Clifford Hultin of Arlington, Virginia; Alma Johnson of Crookston, Minn; Edwin and Wallace Johnson and Mrs. N. V. Torgerson of Adams.

Combined funeral service for Mr. Johnson and Memorial Service for his son Harold were held Friday afternoon at Bethel Lutheran Church at Minneapolis, the Rev. E. Clifford Nelson officiating.

Burial was at Sunset Memorial Park where at his last request the body of his son will be brought back for interment in the family lot.

(Adams Review; 15 Nov 1945).

Submitted 1/07 from Jim Johnson -- uff-da-9@juno.com

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Aug. 21, 1860
Death: Mar. 6, 1938

#1 of 4 items:

Carl M. Syck was born at Gehn, near Copenhagen, Denmark August 21, 1860 and died at St. Olaf Hospital March 6, 1938 at the age of 77.

At the age of 7 he came to America with his parents and settled in Blue Earth county, Minnesota. For the past 60 years he resided in Mower County.

For several years Mr. Syck was engaged in the livery business at Austin and in 1904 moved to Brownsdale, which has since been his home. For 28 years he was a faithful employee of the Huntting Elevator Co. and in 1932 bought out their interests and continued in the business until he retired last year.

He was a member of the Baptist Church; A.O.U.W.; Modern Woodmen: Lafayette Lodge 116; A.F.& A.M.; Austin Chapter Royal Arch Masons; St. Bernard Commandery and the Eastern Star.

He took an active interest in civic affairs, serving as mayor [of Brownsdale] for a number of years. and was village assessor at the time of his death.

Mr. Syck had only been ill for a week and the community was shocked at his sudden passing, as he had planned on returning home from the hospital on Sunday, but took a turn for the worse on Saturday and peacefully entered everlasting sleep on Sunday morning.

To those who have known Mr. Syck during all or any part of his lifetime, they recognize that one of his strongest characteristics was his sincerity of purpose and honesty with which he conducted every business transaction. He never moved along devious lines but went straight to the point and said what he could do and couldn't do and that was final. He was a splendid citizen in all respects and the county has suffered a loss in his death.

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#2 of 4 items:

Father: Carl Marcus Syck, b. 8-21-1860 in Ghent, Denmark; m. Isabel M. Thompson 7-2-1890; d. 3-6-1938 in Austin, MN. Buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin (near Joseph Lord Pike).

He immigrated to the United States in 1868 and lived originally in Blue Earth before moving to Mower County.

He was a farmer with his brother, William Syck.

Later, Carl ran a livery stable and farm elevator business.

Carl was a former mayor of Brownsdale and at one time ran for Mower County Auditor, but lost.

Carl's parents were John D. and Dorthea Syck.

Submitted to MNGenWeb by David Pike, Jan. 2008

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#3 of 4 items:

Carl M. Syck, 77, Dies;
Funeral to Be Tuesday

Carl M. Syck, 77, of Brownsdale, father of Sheriff Ira Syck and Mrs. Fred Volkmann of Austin, died at 6:00 o'clock Sunday morning at St. Olaf hospital, following an illness of a week.

He was much improved on Friday and planned to return to his home Saturday when he took a turn for the worse.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 at the Jordan Mortuary, the Rev. Roy H. Boldt, pastor of the Brownsdale Baptist church officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. The Masonic order will be in charge of the service at the cemetery.

Austin Daily Herald, Monday March 7, 1938

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#4 of 4 items:

Carl M. Syck was born at Gehn near Copenhagen, Denmark, August 21, 1860 and died at St. Olaf hospital March 6, 1938 at the age of 77 years, 6 months, and 13 days.

At the age of seven he came to America and with his parents settled in Blue Earth County, Minn. For the past sixty years he has resided in Mower Co.

On July 2, 1890 he was united in marriage to Isabella Thomson if Milwaukee, Wis., and to this union four children were born; Ira W. of Austin, Wallace who died in infancy, Ethel M. Volkmann of Austin, and Dorothy E. Pike of Brownsdale.

For several years Mr. Syck was engaged in the livery business at Austin and in 1904 moved with his family to Brownsdale, which has since been his home. For 28 years he was a faithful employee of the Huntting Elevator Co. and in 1932 bought out their interests and continued the business until last year when he retired.

He was a member of the Baptist church; A.O.U.W.; Modern Woodmen; Lafayette Lodge 116 A.F. & A.M.; Austin Chapter Royal Arch Masons; St. Bernard Commandery and the Eastern Star. He took an active interest in civic affairs, serving as mayor [Brownsdale] for a number of years and was village assessor at the time of his death.

Mr. Syck had been ill only a week and the community was shocked at his sudden passing, as he had planned on returning to his home from the hospital on Sunday, but took a turn for the worse on Saturday and peacefully entered everlasting sleep on Sunday evening.

He is survived by his wife, son, two daughters, one sister, Mrs. Cena Snyder of Austin, seven grandchildren, other relatives, and many friends.

To those who have known Mr. Syck during all or any part of his lifetime, they recognize that one of his strongest characteristics was his sincerity of purpose and honesty with which he conducted every trust and every business transaction. His word was 100 percent good. His verbal contracts were as binding on him as a written one. He never moved along devious lines, but went straight to the point, said what he could and what he would not do, and that was final. He was a splendid citizen in all respects and the county has suffered a loss in his death.

Funeral services were held this afternoon from the Jordan Mortuary, Rev. Roy Boldt, officiating. Interment being in Oakwood Cemetery with the Masonic order in charge.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday March 8, 1938

Credit research -- Mark Ashley
Transcribed by K. Pike -- January 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Joseph Hrabak Jr., age 85, and formerly of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on December 17, 2007 at El Mirage Group Home in El Mirage, Arizona.

Joseph was born April 19, 1922 in Freeborn County, Minnesota, the son of Joseph and Villamina (Kopp) Hrabak Sr.

On June 1, 1946 he was united in marriage to Hazel Wencl at the Congregational Church in Austin. She preceded him in death on November 18, 1998. Joseph had retired from Ravenhorst Tile in Clarks Grove in 1984.

Survivors include his daughter, Joanne (Eugene) Winkels, Surprise, Arizona; son, Kenneth (Louise) Hrabak, Austin; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Emily (Vince) DeVriendt, Austin, Valasta (Dale) Johnson, Austin.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; by a sister, Mary Ann Rezac; and by a great-grandchild, Jeremy Winkels.

Memorial services were held on Sunday, January 13, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, with Rev. Kristi Koppel officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin, Minnesota. Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Illa L. Nelson, age 86, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on January 6, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

Illa Lorraine Yocom was born Jan. 28, 1921 in Albert Lea, Minn., to Ira and Hulda (Bunse) Yocom. She graduated from Albert Lea High School and married Robert F. Nelson on May 25, 1941. Bob and Illa lived in Austin where Illa spent the rest of her life.

She was a charter member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church and served the church in many capacities. She loved caring for her family and being a gracious hostess for her friends. She enjoyed baking, needlepoint, gardening, and reading.

Surviving her are her daughter, Julie ( Charles) Grudzinskas, Annapolis, Maryland, and a sister, Harriet (Kenneth) Nelson, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her husband; by two sisters, Ruth Flusek and Mickey Hendrickson; by two brothers, Bernard Yocom and Vernon (Bud) Yocom, and bby her parents. Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Austin, with the Reverend Glenn L. Monson officiating. The organist was Janet Gilbertson and the soloist was the Reverend Dan Kahl. Casket bearers were: David R. Nelson, Jonathan Yocom, Steven Yocom, John Yocom, Kathy Dittmar and Vonya Flusek.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 10, 2008, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. Internment was in Oakwood Cemetery.

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

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Harlan D. "Huck" Hagemeier, age 77, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at St. Vincent Hospital on December 30, 2007.

Harlan was born on October 3, 1930, in Decorah, Iowa, to Albert and Olga (Halversen) Hagemeier. After high school graduation, Huck enlisted in the Navy, serving his country in the Bikini Atoll during early atomic bomb experiments. He also toured the polar ice cap and Korea during his Navy days.

On June 28, 1952, he married his high school sweetheart, Rose Pisney, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Chester, Iowa.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Huck and Rose made their home in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, and proudly raised their three daughters, Patricia, Terry and Lisa. Huck resumed his career as a truck driver, working for Armstrong Truck Lines. In 1966, the Hagemeier family moved to Green Bay, where Huck worked for Packerland Packing Company, a career that lasted 30 years. Along with his wife, he owned R & H Trucking Company for 10 years. During the 1970s and 80s, Huck enjoyed many hours watching Terry and Lisa compete with the family's quarter horses. He created a horse trailer and changing room for the girls from an old school bus and their presence at horse shows was hard to miss.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Rose; by his beloved daughters, Patricia Hendricks, his still special ex-son-in law Randy Hendricks, Dubuque, Iowa; Terry Hagemeier (and special friend Laurie Cooney), Oneida, Wis.; and Lisa Madsen, and his loyal fishing buddy and son-in-law Larry Madsen, Sturgeon Bay, Wis.; by a grandson, Christian Hendricks, Sioux Falls, S.D., and granddaughter, Allison Hendricks, Dubuque, Iowa, held special places in his heart along with his newest delight, his great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn.

Harlan was preceded in death by his parents, and by his only brother, Albert Lee Hagemeier.

Memorial services were held on Friday, January 4, 2008, at Saint Bernard's Church, in Green Bay. Memorials are prefered to St. Bernard/St. Philip Catholic Churches of Green Bay.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mary I. Jensen, 89, of Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota, died on January 7, 2008 at Madonna Towers in Rochester. Mary was born March 10, 1918 to Rozell and Gertrude (Peer) Cogswell in Hampton, Iowa. She married Howard Jensen on Dec. 4, 1944 in Grand Meadow, Minn. She was a homemaker and lived in Rochester since 1957. She enjoyed playing cards, sewing, cooking and baking. She was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church.

She is survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Howard, a still born child, two brothers; A.J. Cogswell and Warren Cogswell; and two sisters; Edna Solvey and Iva Newkirk.

Funeral Service were held on Thursday, January 10, 2007 at Bethel Lutheran Church. Burial will be at Grand Meadow Cemetery at 2 p.m. on Thursday.

The Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Howard Henry Fisher, age 87, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Sunday, January 6, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

Howard was born on August 6, 1920, in Austin, to Leander and Philomenia (Uher) Fisher. On Feb. 22, 1941 he was united in marriage to Lois V. Johnson in Austin. She preceded him in death on March 22, 2007.

Howard was retired from Hormel Foods. He and Lois spent their retirement years in Mesa, Arizona. Howard enjoyed swimming and hiking. He had a love for reading and cooking. He and Lois were both active members of St. Edward's Catholic Church.

Survivors include his two children, Elizabeth LeFevour, Elmhurst, Illinois, and David Fisher, Austin; and his grandchildren, Kevin (Kristina) LeFevour, Naperville, Illinois, Kelly LeFevour, Chicago, Illinois, and Katherine LeFevour, Elmhurst.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Richard H. Fisher; by a son-in-law, Michael LeFeVour; and by a sister, Josephine Pumroy.

Memorial services were held on Friday, January 11, 2008 at Mayer Funeral Home, with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Military rites were by American Legion Post #91. Interment will be at a later date in Calvary Cemetery, Austin.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Evelyn Irene Lenz, age 86, of Austin, died on January 7, 2008 at St. Marks Lutheran Home where she was a resident.

Evelyn was born on January 12, 1921 in Stewartville, Minnesota, to Neal and Gerda (Hansen) Markham. On October 22, 1939 she married William Lenz in Stewartville. He preceded her in death on November 30, 1975. Evelyn was a homemaker and her main focus was her family.

Survivors include her three children, William Jr. (Dixie) Lenz, Austin, Warren (Bonnie) Lenz, Rochester, Minnesota, and Mark (Nancy) Lenz, Austin; her sisters-in-law, Helen Lenz, Austin, Alice (Ted) Rortvedt, Wisconsin, Doris Hansen, Rochester; and her four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Neal and Gerda Markham; by a sister, Beverly Chamberlain; and by a brother, Robert Markham.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at Mayer Funeral Home with Rev. Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

The casket bearers were: Brian Lenz, Danny Lenz, Wade Lenz, David Sorlie, Scott Simonson and Don Lenz.

The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Gertrude D. Nelson, age 93, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Friday, January 4, 2008 at Prairie Manor Care Center in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota.

She was born on September 14, 1914 in Webster, South Dakota to and Arthur and Grace (Gruby) Ring. Her family moved to Virginia, Minnesota when she was young. She graduated from Virginia High School and married Carl Nelson on June 11, 1942 at Christ Episcopal Church in Albert Lea, Minn. She was a member of AARP, League of Women Voters, and an active volunteer with the Red Cross, Minnesota Public Radio, and Channel 15 Austin Public Television.

Gertrude is survived by her nephew, Robert Stanco, Eau Claire, Wisconsin; and by step-grandsons, Bradley Evers and Brian Evers of Ashburn, Virgina.

She was preceded in death by her husband Carl Nelson.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, January 9, 2008 at Christ Episcopal Church in Austin. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. The organist was Gretchen Zinsli.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Robert John Farrell, age 72, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on January 6, 2008 at his home in rural Austin.

He was born on April 3, 1935 in Austin, to Robert and Gladys (Cerny) Farrell.

He attended school at Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, and was married to Retha H. Sorg on May 29, 1958 at the Church of Christ in Austin. He was employed as a DHIA supervisor for 20 years and was also a farmer living in the rural Austin area. Robert enjoyed spending time with his family as well as gardening.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by a son, Terry; by a daughter, LeAnne; and by two brothers-in-law, Lowell Pike and Darrel Maas.

Robert is survived by his spouse, Retha Harriet Farrell, Austin; by two sons, Greg R. (Anita) Farrell, Lyle, Minnesota, and Doug B. (Becky) Farrell, Austin; by a daughter Deanna (Jody) Stephens, Sargeant, Minnesota; by sisters and brothers, Gloria (Norman) Anderson, Brownsdale, Minnesota; William (Doris) Farrell, Lansing, Minnesota, Joyce (Giles) Motzko, Brownsdale, Judy Pike, Brownsdale; Keith Farrell, Brownsdale; by nine grandchildren: Heidi, Alisha, Zach, Amanda, Ben, Tim, Bryce, Sam and Bob; and by two great-grandchildren, Laura and Haylie.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, January 9, 2008 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with Pastor David DeFor Officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery, Brownsdale, Minn.

Honorary Bearers were: Travis Adams, Ben Farrell, Tim Farrell, Zach Farrell, LaVern Gabriel, Adam Meyer, Lowell Sorg, Bob Stephens, and Bryce Stevens.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb