Dwayne Mathew Cloutier, 44, died unexpectedly at his residence in Superior, Wis., on Jan. 2, 2008 from a lingering illness of undiagnosed heart disease.

Dwayne was born in Faribault, Minn., on Jan 24, 1963 and was raised in Austin. He moved from Austin to Duluth, Minn., and after that, Superior, Wis.

Dwayne enjoyed the outdoors, was an avid fisherman and Vikings fan. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and cat. Dwayne was a very selfless person, loved his family dearly and always put every one before himself. He was employed as a telemarketer for U.S. Superior Marketing.

Dwayne is survived by his daughter, Nia Cloutier; three grandchildren, Alexus White, Domonik and Jasmine Garza, all of Superior, Wis.; two step-grandchildren, Dylan and Marcus Tomczac; special friend Mary Ward, Superior; sister, Anita Welch, Junction City, Kan.; brother, Mark Cloutier Remick, Faribault; half brother, George Jr. Cloutier, Faribault; sister, Bonnie Ryther, Austin, half brother, Ben Bellrichard, Austin; Aunt, Donna Knittel and special friend, James Cane, Eagan, Minn.; Mother and stepfather, Joyce and Jim Bellrichard, Austin; father and step-mother, George and Gloria Cloutier, Faribault; and nieces and nephews.

Dwayne was preceded in death by his sister, Deena Lynn Hertle, Austin, and grandparents, Arthur and Gladys Knittel, Faribault.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.

Copyright © 2008 Austin Daily Herald Inc.

 

Steven Chandler enlisted early in the war, in the 9th Minnesota Co. C, was captured at the battle of Guntown and died in a rebel prison. [Died of starvation]

History of Mower County 1884, Pg 238 .

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: 18 Dec 1845
Death: 8 Oct 1871

Killed By Lightening. While fighting a prairie fire on the night of October 8, 1871, Ira P. Launsbury [Lounsbury], a son of Purdy Launsbury, was struck by lightening and killed, his dead body being found on the prairie the next morning. It is said that it rained very hard. The most singular thing about it was that only one very loud clap of thunder was heard, that which killed Mr. Launsbury.

History of Mower County 1911, pg 458.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Rachel Marie Neiswanger, 91, of Austin died on Jan. 20, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

She was born April 27, 1916 in Austin, to Arthur and Erma (Douglas) Weseman. In 1934, Rachel graduated from Austin High School. On June 26, 1937, she was married to David Clare Neiswanger in Northfield, Minn. She was the founder of Mower Vehicle Registration Inc., where she was a Deputy Registrar. Rachel was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, The League of Women Voters, the DFL, and AARP. She served as the past president of PTA and was also a past president of the League of Women Voters. In 1950 Rachel managed the 1950 census of Mower County.

Rachel is survived by her daughters, Tucky Ann (Rev. Kinley) Eittreim, Birmingham, Ala., Jane Clare (Lyman) Lundquist, Austin, Texas; sons, Stephen Edward Neiswanger, Austin, Minn.; Kurt David Neiswanger and Robbie Levine, Robbinsdale, Minn.; grandchildren, Mark (Debbie) Eittreim, Susan (Mark) Power, Garrick Lundquist, Lance (Melodie) Lundquist, great-grandchildren, Sean Power, Matthew Power; sister, Eugenia Kahl-Bush, Grand Meadow, Minn.; nieces and nephews and special friend, Casper.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David Neiswanger, three brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Jan. 25, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with The Reverend Kristi Koppel Officiating. Interment will be in the Cedar City Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday, from 5-7 p.m., and at St. Olaf Lutheran Church on Friday for one hour before the service. Memorials to the American Diabetes Association or the American Stroke Association.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Violet Evelin Ames, 98, of Brownsdale died on Jan. 20, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin.

Violet was born Dec. 10, 1909 in Brookings County, S.D., the daughter of Louis and Erna (Bartelt) Risch. She graduated from the Elkton, S.D. High School and attended the Mankato Teachers College, in Mankato, Minn. Violet was married to Carl Oehler on Nov. 18, 1931. He died in 1936 and Violet went to work at the Geo. A. Hormel Co. where she worked until retiring in 1972. On June 29, 1957 she was married to Donald J. Ames in Austin. They resided in Brownsdale where they operated "Dovi" Antiques for 12 years. Violet served as the secretary for the Brownsdale Businessmen's Association and was a member of the Church of Christ in Austin.

She is survived by her son, Ronald (Patricia) Oehler, Knoxville, Tenn.; granddaughter, Cydnee (Ernest) Baffa, Belmont Hills, Pa.; grandsons, Jeffry (Sandy) Oehler, Raleigh, N.C., Kevin (Judy) Oehler, Durham, N.C.; five great-grandchildren; brother, Ivan Risch, Truth or Consequences, N.M.; two sisters, Bernice Karstens, Seattle, Wash., Virginia Luikart, Nisswa, Minn.; nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Carl Oehler and Donald Ames, one sister Laura and a great-great-granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 25, 2008 at Oakwood Cemetery with Pastor David DeFor officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday from 4-6 p.m. The honorary bearers are Richard Cummings, Robert Lowe, Chad Lowe, Denny Boik, Larry Lowe and Ron Schroeder.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Andrus "Andy" Jullien Severson, 91, of Baxter, died on Jan. 21, 2008 at his home.

Andy was born Oct. 24, 1916 to Helge and Clara (Hanson) Severson in the Austin area. He farmed with his dad, and at 17 stated working at Hormel as a laborer. He worked there for 43 years. He married Esther Borgesen on Aug. 3, 1940 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. In 1944 Andy served during World War II on the aircraft carrier, USS Point Cruise. He enjoyed volunteering at the Austin Senior Citizen Center where he also served on the Board. He was a long time member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church and the American Legion. He was a devoted husband and the most wonderful daddy, and everyone who knew him loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Esther; three devoted daughters, Ann (Virg) Lundberg, Terry (Dick) Bakke, and Kim (Dwayne) Walker; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Marion Waldron, Austin, and Phyllis Stellmaker, of the Minneapolis-St. Paul Area.

Andy was preceded in death by four children, Richard, Andy, Troilee, and Jean Kay; his grandson Tait Bakke; and his parents.

Funeral Services for Andy will be Monday, Jan. 28 at 1 p.m. at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, with visitation starting at 11 a.m. Please visit www.brenny.com to leave a message of comfort and support to Andy's family. Arrangements are entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Chapel of Baxter.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Robert Earl Warner, 84, died on Jan. 19, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Robert was born Aug. 12, 1923. He was married on Oct. 22, 1949 to Thelma S. Chapmen. They celebrated 50 years of marriage until she died on Jan. 11, 2000. He was a loving family man and a hard worker who lived his life to the fullest. He will be missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by his sons, Gregory (Jill) Warner, Rochester, Minn., Michael (Geraldine) Warner, Plymouth, Minn.; daughter, Peggy (Roger) Freitag, Terry (Bruce) Colemen, Connie (Dennis) Charnecki; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26, at 2111 First Ave. N.E., Austin, Minn.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Theodore James Schlichter, 86, of Austin, died on Jan. 18, 2008 at the Adams Health Care Center.

He was born Aug. 19, 1921 in Hillsboro, N.D. to Wilhelm and Caroline (Mueller) Schlichter. He married Dorothy E. Schaefer on Sept. 5, 1945 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. Theodore is a retired farmer who enjoyed fishing, hunting, watching the Vikings and Twins. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Dorothy, Austin; children, Robert (JoAnn) Schlichter, Elk River, James (Mary Jo) Schlichter, Austin, Theodore Schlichter Jr., Preston, Steven (Cindy) Schlichter and Thomas Schlichter, Austin, Eugene (Susan) Schlichter, Anoka, Mary (Gary) Erickson, Owatonna, Carol Karjala, Hastings, Linda (Roger) Hahn, Vadnais Heights and Janet (Scott) Gaboury, Blue Bell, Pa.; 17 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren. A brother, Vincent (Mary Ann) Schlichter, Phoenix, Ariz.; Sisters, Gertrude (Herbert) Hannam, Cedarburg, Wis., Fran Wofford, Santa Monica, Calif. and Helen (Orlo) Hovland, Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, three sisters, a daughter-in-law, Barb Schlicter and a son-in-law, Howard Karjala.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008 at St. Edwards Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. There will be a 6:30 p.m. prayer service this evening at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 - 7 p.m. today and at the church one hour before the service on Tuesday. His casket bearers will be his grandsons, Brad Erickson, Scott Schlichter, Jason Schlichter, Bryce Schlichter, Steven Schlichter and Adam Hahn.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Inez Mae Scott, 82, of Austin, died on Jan. 18, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

Inez was born Jan. 19, 1925 in Chatfield, Minn. to Peder and Anna (Underdahl) Forthun. In 1942 she was united in marriage to Robert Scott. They retired and moved to Dorchester, Iowa in 1987. Inez loved to fish, spend time with her family and embroidering. She was an avid Twins fan. She worked many years at L and O Lakes in a variety of positions. Inez returned to Austin in 1994 after Robert passed away.

Survivors include her children, Carol (Doug) Root, Austin, Edith Scott, Owatonna, Steve (Lori) Scott, Austin, Dawn Bjoraker (Phillip Cagle), Albertville, Ala., Mark Scott (Karen Moe), Byron, Ellie (Dan) Kew, Rock Falls, Iowa, Lisa (Tony) Belden, Austin; 17 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Eileen Camerer, Austin.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Scott on May 2, 1994; parents, Peder and Anna Forthun; four brothers and two sisters. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008 at the Church of Christ with Pastor David DeFor officiating. Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Monday at Mayer Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday. Interment will be at the Oakland Midway Cemetery. The honorary casket bearers will be Jannette Belden, Bertie and LaVonne Ferguson. The casket bearers will be James Scott, James Lewis, Chad Klingerman, Donald Petersen, Jeff Forthun and Ellard Forthun.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Darlene Louise (Felber) Faber, age 68, passed away on Jan. 17, 2008 at Albert Lea Good Samaritan Center.

Darlene was born to Philip and Gladys (Bolinger) Felber on Thursday, July 18, 1940 at 2 p.m. in Grand Meadow, Minn. She graduated from St. Theodore Grade School through the ninth grade and than graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1958.

Darlene married Forrest Claussen in 1959, to this marriage four children were born: Cherie Claussen Seuser, Terry Claussen (deceased May 17, 2006), John Claussen (deceased April 18, 2004) and Scott Claussen.

In May 1969 she married Gene Petersen, he passed away in 1978. She then married Les Faber in October 1987 and he passed away in 1995.

Darlene lived a good life. Her loves were her children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors.

She worked at the Coffee Cup Cafe from 1965-1969, worked in the kitchen at Thornecrest Retirement Center for 3 1/2 years, worked on pig farm for four years, started working at the Mower County jail as a cook in June of 1989 and worked 18 1/2 years there and loved going to work every day. Jail inmates and workers were all my family.

I loved everyone and had so many friends, I thank you all.

Darlene is survived by children: Cherie (Andy) Seuser, Albert Lea, Minn., Scott Claussen (Tania and Jack), Cottage Grove, Minn.; daughter-in-law: Audrey Claussen, Luverne, Minn.; grandchildren: Christopher Balfe (Heidi, Hunter and Maverick), Charlie Balfe (Alex Pobanz "Big Al"), Morgan Stadheim and special friend, Jared, Alex and Forrest Seuser, Sammy Sikich of the United States Navy, Alexis Lee, Coon Rapids, Minn., Danielle, Jackie, Brandon and Cole Claussen, Luverne, Minn., Stevie Louise Claussen and "little" John Claussen, Ohio; and granddogs, Gidget and Clifford; four sisters: Joyce Bjerke of Rochester, Minn., Jenny Rye, Albert Lea, Minn., Betty Hendrickson, Albert Lea, Minn., Doris (Gene) Frost, Rochester, Minn.; three brothers: James Felber, Albert Lea, Minn., David (Bonita) Felber, Enid, Oklahoma, Dick (Jeanne) Felber, Red Wing, Minn.

The memorial service for Darlene Louise Faber of Albert Lea, Minn. will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008 at Church of Christ, Christian in Albert Lea, Minn. Pastor Mike Gerhardt will officiate. Friends may visit with family from 3-6 PM Saturday at Bonnerup Funeral Service.

Austin Daily Herald www.austindailyherald.com (Jan. 24, 2008)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Delphy Arlene Voorhees, age 89, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on January 23, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin.

She was born on May 7, 1918 in Pleasant Lake, North Dakota, to Alfred and Clara (Knutson) Christopherson. Delphy graduated from Austin High School and was married to Joseph A. Voorhees on November 28, 1936 at Lyle, Minnesota. They resided in Austin where she was employed at the Austin Floral Shop. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church and the B.P.O.E. Does. Delphy was an avid reader and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and attending family gatherings.

Delphy is survived by her children, Terry and Debra Voorhees, Bonita Springs, Florida; Mary Jo Frazier and Tom Goetsch, Austin, Herb and Carol Voorhees, Austin, Paul Voorhees, Waseca, Minn., Bill Voorhees, Elk River, Minnesota; Chrisyne and Steven Bartley, Austin, Marjorie and Ron Jacobson, Austin; 14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Vernyce Austin, Austin; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; one sister, one brother, one grandson and two son-in-laws.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 28, 2008 at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel, with The Reverend Kristi Koppel officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Casket bearers were: Eric Frazier, Joseph Voorhees, Andrew Voorhees, Alex Whiteis, Peter Bartley and Tim Voorhees. Honorary Bearers were: Jack Voorhees, Jay Voorhees and Michael Voorhees.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Harriet M. Nelson, age 85, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on January 23, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin.

Harriet was born on October 7, 1922 in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Ira and Hulda (Bunse) Yocom. She graduated from Albert Lea High School and married Kenneth Nelson on Sept. 28, 1941 in Farmington, Minnesota.

Harriet was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church and the American Legion Auxiliary and she loved reading, crocheting, gardening, and fishing

She is survived by her son, David Nelson and his partner Beth Bodensteiner, Austin; granddaughters, Dana (Bill) Richert, Fremont, Nebraska, Jennifer (Paul) Traxler, LeCenter, Minn., Erin (Matt) King, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; step-granddaughter, Christine (Christopher) Heyda, New Prague, Minnesota; step-grandson, Mike Holland, Faribault, Minnesota; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kenneth in 1975; two brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 28, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Austin. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. The organist was Neal Erickson. The soloist was Erin Schumacher. Casket Bearers were: Jenny & Paul Traxler, Erin & Matt King, Christine & Christopher Heyda, Mike Holland and Derek Traxler.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Gary D. Crews, 68, of Spring Valley, Minnesota, died on January 27, 2008, at his home.

Gary was born November 26, 1939, in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, the son of Gerald and Leona (Sargeant) Crews. He lived in Austin and attended Austin public schools. He worked for Jennings Scrap Yard in Spring Valley for 12 years and then drove grain trucks for Warren Grain in Spring Valley for 30 years, retiring in 1990.

He married Sheri Grummons on November 19, 1966, in Maple View, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Spring Valley where they owned and operated the Spring Valley Trailer Court. Gary enjoyed fishing and traveling in their motor home.

He is survived by his wife, Sheri; three daughters, Corriena (Bob) Orlander and Donna Crews both of Florida and Kimberly Crews, North Carolina; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; six sisters, Audrey (Sam) Tindal, Brownsdale, Minn., Marlys Staffon, Austin, Charlene (Harold) Krueger, Oakland, Minn., Betty (Bill) Hanen, Austin, Dawn (Mike) Taylor, Austin, MN, and Renee (Jeff) Jannings, Hillsboro, Wis.; and five brothers, Roger, Waltham, Minn., Robert (Valinda), Austin, Darrell (Jean), Austin, Jim (Tracy), Lyle, Minn., and Ramon (Susan), Waltham.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be private family graveside services in Our Savior's Lutheran Cemetery in Spring Valley. Thauwald Funeral Home in Spring Valley is in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Helen Josephine Hyland died on January 25, 2008, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota. She was born on Sept. 23, 1915, in Sargeant, Mower County, Minnesota. Josephine was raised by Severt and Cecelia Kyllo in Sargeant. She attended Sargeant Country School.

She was united in marriage to Albin Hyland on Dec. 29, 1932, at the East St. Olaf Parsonage in rural Byron, Minnesota. She and her husband lived in Vernon Township for many years and she worked at Field Crest Care Center as a cook for 10 years. She also taught Norwegian classes at Field Crest. The couple moved to Hayfield in 1963. Josephine enjoyed her family, embroidering, gardening and quilt making. Josephine was very active in WELCA at West St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Pricilla Circle, belonged to Friendly Hand Club and taught Sunday School for 30 years.

Josephine is survived by her daughter, Lucille Daggett, Spring Valley, Minnesota; by her sons, Marlyn Hyland, Coon Rapids, Minnesota; and Larry (Mary) Hyland, Mahtomedi, Minnesota; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and one half brother, Gerald Lee.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield and one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Blessed be her memory.

Funeral services for Mrs. Hyland were held on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, at West St. Olaf Lutheran Church in rural Hayfield, with The Rev. Darby Lawrence officiating. Interment will be in West St. Olaf Lutheran Cemetery in the spring.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Jul. 9, 1932
Death: Dec. 7, 2007

AUSTIN -- Earl Elmer Hallum, 75, of Austin died on Dec. 7, 2007 at St. Marys Hospital.

Earl was born July 9, 1932 in Austin, the son of Elmer A. and Anna (Cole) Hallum. He graduated from Austin High School and the University of Oklahoma. He was the Minnesota State diving champion in 1948, 1949, and 1950 and an All-American rated diver with the University of Oklahoma in 1952, 1953, and 1954, and served the interim swim coach at the U of OK.

Earl was married to Audrey J. Plath on Dec. 30, 1951 at the Church of Christ- Christian Church in Austin. In April of 1955 he entered the US Air Force where he was a test pilot for the T-38 and F-5 fighter. He also served as a T-38 instructor and commander-finance and procurement officer. Earl retired as a Lt. Col. in 1975. They returned to Austin where he worked as a mortgage and personal banker with First Bank Austin from 1975-1979. In 1980 he began selling real estate from the Fuhrman Real Estate Office. He retired in 1995.

Earl was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, served on the Executive Board of the Mower County Chapter of the Red Cross and worked with the Austin Youth Football Program.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son, James Earl Hallum in 2005.

Earl is survived by his wife: Audrey Jean Hallum, Austin; son: Rob (Sheila) Hallum, Eagan, Minn.; daughter: Kathy (Dr. James) Hilton, Eagan, Minn.; Grandchildren: Joshua, Taylor, Jackson & Elizabeth Hallum, Alexis and Kally Hilton, Sisters: Grace Ferguson, Austin, Minn., Donna (Willard) Blaser, Austin; Joyce (Jack) Shepherd, Houston, Texas; brother: Roger Hallum, Vancouver, Wash.;

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 14, 2007 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Reverend Kristi Koppel officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday from 6-8p.m. and at St. Olaf Lutheran Church on Friday from 10 a.m. to the time of service. The family prefers memorials to the St. Olaf Lutheran Church capital Fund appeal. The organist will be Neal Erickson. with soloist Erin Schumacher. Casket Bearers will be Ronald Plath, Richard Plath, Roger Plath, Todd Plath, Roger Plath, Jr., Scott Plath and Terry Plath. Honorary Casket Bearers will be; Dean Plath, Randall Plath, Michael Blaser, Rick Blaser, Rhian Plath, Jackson Shepherd, Jason Shepherd and Scott Hallum.

---

News obituary: The 'Cool Hand'

By KATIE JOHNSON / katie.johnson@austindailyherald.com

Earl Hallum was an even-tempered, soft-spoken man with remarkable talents on the diving board, in the cockpit and at home with his three children.

Born in 1932 in Austin, Earl was a stand-out athlete in sports. He loved basketball, track, football and particularly swimming and diving, where he was the Minnesota state champion for three years in a row before earning a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma; he turned down a scholarship to the University of Colorado to play football.

"Earl was tall to be a diver -- six-foot-three and a half," his wife, Audrey, said. At the U of OK, he was an All-American diver three years in a row, and served as an interim coach after graduation, guiding his team to a championship. He even tried out for the Olympics, placing in the top 10 during trials.

Earl married Audrey Plath, also of Austin, in 1951, and entered the U.S. Air Force in 1955. He worked in Lancaster, Calif. as a project officer and test pilot for T-38 and F-5 fighter planes.

"He would test those planes when they came off the line," Audrey said. Earl was involved in finance with the Air Force, and served in many different capacities, from procurement officer to military finance officer. He helped train top fighter pilots for Vietnam, and his steadfast demeanor earned him the nickname "Cool Hand."

He toured Korea twice during Vietnam, lived in Lubbock, Texas, and spent the last five years of his Air Force career in Albuquerque, N.M, retiring as lieutenant colonel in 1975.

Audrey said being in the military meant having a close relationship with other military families. "You do meet people fast and you stay friends forever," Audrey said of their military family. "It's a close association. You meet someone with the military and it's an instant sharing."

They have many fascinating stories of their time in the Air Force, like when they lived in the same housing in Albuquerque as scientists developing atomic bombs during World War II. After his Air Force retirement, the family returned to Minnesota. "It was neat to come to Minnesota and live here when our average length of stay was two to three years," Audrey said.

Their children -- Rob, Kathy and Jamie, who died in 2005 -- attended school in Austin, at Banfield Elementary and Austin High School, where the brothers also excelled in sports.

Earl started a career in banking at First Bank Austin, where he was a mortgage and personal banker. The job also gave him the opportunity to be more involved in his children's lives.

"I think the open time he had let him thoroughly enjoy that," Audrey said. Banking began to change during the time, and Earl found a calling in real estate. He worked at Fuhrman Real Estate from 1980 to 1995, when he retired.

Two of his children, Rob and Kathy, remained in Minnesota in Eagan, and Jamie lived in Colorado.

Earl liked to stay active, serving as executive director of the American Red Cross, treasurer of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church Men's Club and member of the Elks club.

His true passion was sports, and he loved to watch local games. Earl became known for his years as a statistician alongside Gabby Weiss, long-time KAUS radio announcer. "Earl just loved sports," Audrey said.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Roger "Roddy" Krebsbach, age 78, of Alma, Wisconsin, died on January 16, 2008, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center of a heart attack.

Roger and Donna lived in Austin until 1980. Roger retired from the Hormel Food Company and moved to Alma where they owned and operated the Hillcrest Motel until 1995. Following the sale of the motel they remained active members of the Alma community.

Roger is survived by his wife of 54 years, Donna; children, Michael (Mary), Eau Claire, Wis., Mark (Sharon), Cold Spring, Minn., Susan (Phil) Sanvick, Brownsdale, Minn., Tim, Mankato, Minn., and Elizabeth Fisher, Sun City, Ariz.; brother, Curtis (Joan) Krebsbach, Austin; sisters, Ann (Wally) Mulligan, Omaha, Neb., Karen (Jack) Bourdaise, San Jose, Calif., and Mary (Tom) Winkles, Austin; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at the St. John Lutheran Church. In lieu of burial, Roger's body was cremated. Full military honors followed the service at the church.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Darrell Donavan Anderson, age 82, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, and formerly of Lyle, Mower County, Minnesota, died on February 3, 2008 at Prairie Manor Care Center.

Darrell was born on July 2, 1925 to Melvin Severin and Frances Cora (Leidal) Anderson in rural Lyle, where he also grew up and graduated from high school in 1943. During World War II, Darrell served as a radio operator in the Army. Later he moved to Austin where he met Patricia Ann Rumsey. They were married on Nov. 28, 1969 in Iowa. Darrell worked as a transmission mechanic, drove school bus for the Lyle area and also played lead guitar and fiddle for many local bands. He retired in 1985. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and camping. Darrell belonged to the American Legion and 400 CB Club. He will be remembered as a great father and for his kindness, generosity and love of music.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; children, Stephen Anderson, St. Paul, Minn., Anita Deyo, Austin, Brenda (Mark) Pogones, Blooming Prairie, Cynthia Hnatyszyn, Austin; Lenora Lewis, Arlington, Wash., L. Scott (Cheri) Kruger, Lake Crystal, John Kruger and fiance, Pamela Vaughn, Mapleview; Deanna (Michael) Bustad, Taopi; 21 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Darlene Wilson, Garden Grove, Calif.; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by two grandchildren, Mark Stephen Hnatyszyn, Jr., and Caidon Michael Bustad; and by two brothers, Vernon and Wayne Anderson.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 7, 2008, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. Burial was in Grandview Cemetery south of Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post 91.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Jeanne Fern (Wienzierl) Clark, age 55, of Lyle, Mower County, Minnesota, died on February 2, 2008, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Jeanne was born on May 19, 1952, in Rockford, Illinois, the daughter of William and Willa Jean (Hefner) Wienzierl. She attended school in Rockford, graduating from Harlem High School. After graduation, Jeanne attended Pillsbury Bible College in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Service Folder image

On August 30, 1975, she was united in marriage to Terry Lee Clark in Loves Park, Illinois. They made their home in Owatonna until 1991, when they moved to Oronoco. In 2002, they moved to Lyle, where Jeanne worked at Wallace's Print Shop in Osage and most recently at Shopko in Austin.

She was a member of the Oakland Baptist Church and had been a long-time member of the Pine Island Baptist Church. She enjoyed singing in choirs, in a duet with her daughter, Sarah and as a soloist.

She is survived by her husband, Terry Clark, Lyle; by three children: Joseph (Jill) Clark of Byron, Robert Clark of Lyle, Sarah Clark of Sleepy Eye; by three grandchildren: twins, Cassandra and Madison and Charlie; by one brother, William Wienzierl, Akeley, Minnesota; and by two sisters, Barb Smith and Judy Anderson both of Rockford, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 4, 2008, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. Burial was in Grandview Cemetery south of Austin.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ellen M. Clark, 86, of Garland, Texas, died on January 22, 2008.

Ellen was born on May 17, 1921. She grew up in Austin, and still remembered her first day of kindergarten. She married Paul Clark, and had two sons, Dale and Dave. She retired from Hormel Foods after 46 years and still talked about the good times she had working there. She moved to Texas in 1983 to be near her son and his family. She will be missed by all who knew her, and whose lives she touched.

Survivors include a son, Dale Clark, grandchildren Brett Clark and Candy Hurley, great-grandchildren: Lacie, Cameron, and Zachary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and by one son.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Wesley reached out Tuesday night to hold his "little sweetheart's" hand, tell her he loved her. After a night of much needed rest, he passed away on January 23, 2008.

He was born on April 15, 1924 in Dover, Minnesota, to Herman Papenfus, a German immigrant, and his wife, Ida Vix of Minnesota. Wes was the 11th of 13 children. He had six brothers and six sisters. He was the only one of his siblings to graduate from high school. Wesley worked as a farm hand in Minnesota and married his sweetheart, Lois Elaine Nihart, on February 29, 1944.

He served in the Army, and in 1946 he returned to Minnesota where he became a policeman in Austin. He retired after 29 years as a First Lieutenant. In 1982 Wes and his wife moved to Concord, Calif. Wes obtained his real estate license in the 1980s in California.

Besides playing gin rummy with his sweetheart, Wes enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved feeding the birds and the squirrels and watching their antics, marveling at God's creations. He also loved driving his John Deere riding lawn mower. He and Lois loved to garden and raised incredible roses, tomatoes and cucumbers. As the "chef's assistant" he helped make the best spicy tomato jam. Wes loved being out doors and enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi River.

Wesley was a loving, giving man, who only saw the world from a positive point of view. His glass was always half full, and he laughed often. The joy and love he gave to those around him will forever be his living memorial.

Wes is survived by his wife, Lois; daughters, Ruth (Roger) Plath, Owatonna, Minn., and Linda Papenfus, Pleasant Hill, Calif.; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Elaine) Plath, Tyler, Texas, Cynthia (Kyle Tani) Plath, Sarajevo, and Jaime Plath, Tyler; great-grandsons, Zachary and Justin Plath, Tyler; sister, Verna Lindley, Red Wing, Minn.; and Brother (Beatrice) Elmer, St. Charles, Minn., and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial was held on Jan. 28, 2008, at the Concord United Methodist Church in Concord, Calif. Donations may be made in Wesley's name to the American Lung Association Wall of Remembrance, the Hospice of the East Bay, or the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties. His family can be reached at 25 Greenwood Court, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Roman Allan Citurs, 78, of Northwood, Worth county, Iowa, died on February 4, 2008, at the Muse-Norris Hospice Inpatient Unit in Mason City.

Roman Allan Citurs was born on Septembe 24, 1929 to Roman Citurs Sr. and Bessie (McAnally) on the family farm east of Northwood, Iowa. He grew up working on the family farm, and attended school in a one room schoolhouse in Deer Creek Township.

In 1952 he volunteered for service in the Army. After completing his training in Camp Croder, Missorui and Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, he was stationed with the American occupation forces in Frankfurt, Germany, where he was a microwave radio specialist at the headquarters of the U.S. Army Europe, located in the I.G. Farben Building in Frankfurt.

After completing his military service in 1954, he returned to Northwood, and resumed farming on the family farm. On Aug. 27, 1961 he married Wanda Lee Engen in St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. The couple lived on the Citurs' family farm where they raised two sons, Alex and Arnel. During his lifetime, Roman was a Deer Creek Township trustee for 30 years and served on various Deer Creek Watershed committees.

Roman was a member of the Meltonville and later Northwood Methodist churches, where he served at various times as head of the Broad of Trustees, on the Administrative Board and Sunday School Superintendent. Roman and Wanda retired from farming and moved to Northwood in 1995, after which Roman held several "retirement jobs" with Northland Construction, the Joyce Elevator, and Rognes Brothers Excavating. He finally retired for real in 2002.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda; by two sons, Alex and Arnel; by two sisters, Mary Johnson and Ruby Harmon; by two brothers, Earl and Karl Citurs; and by other relatives.

Roman Citurs was preceded in death by his parents, Roman Sr. and Bessie Citurs; by brothers, Leon and Ray Citurs; and by a sister, Esther Flatness.

Funeral services were held on Friday, February 8, 2008, at the Northwood United Methodist Church, 1000 First Ave. North, Northwood, with Pastor Wendi Gillan officiating. Burial was in the Sunset Rest Cemetery in Northwood, with flag presentation and taps by members of Our Buddies VFW Memorial Post #6779 of Northwood.

The Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 First Ave. South, Northwood, was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Alta Mae Hanna, age 73, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on February 5, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

Alta was born on May 22, 1934 in Austin, to Conrad and Eleanor Katheryn (Berg) Nygaard. Alta graduated from Austin High School in the Class of 1953.

She married Maynard P. Hanna on May 9, 1954 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Alta was a homemaker who began working at McDonalds in Austin as a counter person and later as a cook. She retired several years ago as her health began to fail. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Alta was and avid reader and enjoyed taking day trips with family and friends when her health permitted. She particularly enjoyed watching her grandsons participate in their sports.

Alta is survived by her son, Curtis Hanna and Vicki Trimble, Austin; daughter, Renae (Jeffrey) Hall, Austin; grandsons, Derek Hall, Moor-head, Minn., Joshua Hall, Moorhead; sister, Beverly (Russell) Jacobsen, Plum City, Wis.; sisters-in-law, Margaret Nygaard, Austin, LaDonna Nygaard, Austin; and nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her husband Maynard, by two brothers, and by a sister.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with The Reverend Kristi Koppel Officiating.

The organist was Janet Gilbertson. The casket bearers were: Derek Hall, Joshua Hall, Tom Nygaard, John Jacobsen, Jeff Hanna and Troy Hanna. Interment was in the Grandview Cemetery south of Austin.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Berton Churchill, age 77, of Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minnesota, died on February 5, 2008 from a stroke following open heart surgery at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Berton was born on February 16, 1930 in Spring Valley, Minnesota, to Dale Churchill and Iva (Dornink) Churchill. He attended school in Elkton, Minnesota, and was united in marriage to Rosie Ziebell at Bethleham Lutheran Church in Myrtle, Minnesota, on May 17, 1953. Together they were Dairy Farmers in the Grand Meadow area for 35 years until his retirement in 1990. Berton was the top DHIA Dairy man in Mower County for nine years. He was a loving husband, father and great-grandfather. He loved dancing to old-time music, and had lived in the Grand Meadow area since 1939.

He is survived by his wife, Rosie, Grand Meadow; by twin daughters, Jeanette Curley, Dexter, Minnesota, and Janet (Tom) Schroeder of Cherry, Minnesota; by a son, Paul (Chris) Churchill, Alma, Wisconsin; by eight grandchildren; by three great-grandchildren; by two brothers, Jack (Josie) Churchill, Grand Meadow, and Sheldon Churchill, Dexter; and by a sister, Mary Ann (Donald) Hennessy, San Diego, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by a son-in-law, Wayne Curley; and by a sister-in-law, Laurene Churchill.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 8, 2007 at the United Church of Grand Meadow, with The Reverend Karen Ashton officiating. A spring burial will be in the Frankford Cemetery, rural Frankford Township, Mower County, Minnesota.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Rushford native cared for her family deeply.

Olive E. Dougherty, age 90, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on February 6, 2008 at Owatonna Homestead Hospice House, in Owatonna, Minn.

Olive Swenson was born on Sept. 8, 1917 in Rushford, Minn. She attended school in Rushford and was married to Joseph T. Dougherty in 1935 and moved to Austin in 1944 where Joseph was employed at the Hormel Plant. She loved and cared for her family very deeply and was a Member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Austin.

Olive is survived by her children, Kent (Carol) Dougherty, Spring Valley, Minn., Dianne (Gary) Hoban, Owatonna, Minn., Dennis (MaryLou) Dougherty, Mahtomedi, Minn; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband; sisters, Anna (Frank) Hasselrud, Rushford and Valberg (Melvin) Erickson, Whitehall, Wis.; and brother, Arthur Swenson of California.

Austin Daily Herald

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Friedrich "Fred" Wilhelm Gustave Wulff, 100, of Osseo, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died peacefully Wed, Feb. 6, 2008 in Osseo.

Herman and Sarah (nee Koepsell) Wulff, on March 11, 1907, in Canova, S.D., were blessed with a son and named him Friedrich Wilhelm Gustave Wulff.

Fred is survived by grandchildren: Brian (LeAnn) Wulff, Albertville, Minn., Brad (Alice) Schmitz, St. Michael, Minn., Alicia (David) Sweeny, Las Vegas, Nev., and Bob Johnson, Princeton, Minn.; great-grandchildren: Kyle Wulff, April Wulff and Matthew Sweeny; sister: Selma Koepsell, Rochester, Minn.; nephews, nieces and many other relatives and friends.

Friedrich is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Sarah Wulff; wife: Rose; children, Henry Wulff and Sharon Wulff; granddaughter, Lisa Johnson; and 11 brothers and sisters.

Visitation was Saturday, Feb. 9, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with a Remembrance Service at 11 a.m. at The Peterson Chapel, St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home. Interment was at 3 p.m. at Grandview Cemetery south of Austin following the service. Casket Bearers were Brian Wulff, Brad Schmitz, Bob Johnson, Kyle Wulff, Walter Koosmann and John Miller.

The Peterson Chapel, St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home served the family. Online condolences may be made at www.thepeterson chapel.com.

Austin Daily Herald

©2008 MNGenWeb