Sterling Carl Haugen, 83, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on March 13, 2008 at Fieldcrest Care Center in Hayfield.

He was born July 27, 1924 to Carl and Sarah (Peterson) Haugen in Hayfield where Sterling grew up and graduated from high school. He worked at Hormel Foods for 10 months before he was drafted into the Navy in 1943. He served in World War II as a gunner's mate on Patrol Kraft Escort 871, stationed in Manila, The Philippines. After his discharge in 1946, he returned to work as a machine operator at Hormel Foods. In 1952 he moved to Austin where he married Kathryn Rogers on Aug. 30, 1953. They were the parents of one daughter, Carol. An accomplished athlete, Sterling played basketball, bowled and played golf. He retired in 1982. Kathryn died in 1986 after 33 years of marriage, and Sterling married Avis Jorgenson on Feb. 14, 1987. They enjoyed 20 years together, especially their winters in Apache Junction, Ariz., before Avis' death in 2007. Sterling was head usher for 20 years at Grace Lutheran Church where he was a longtime member.

Survivors include his daughter, Carol (Paul) Kieffer, Plymouth; three grandchildren, Marc (Ann) Mallory, Daniel and Nate Kieffer; sister, Melba Smrcka of Richfield; stepdaughters, Linda (Butch) Dyrland, Blackduck; Vickie (Perry) Bollum, Grand Rapids; Kendra (William) Newman, Hudson, Wis.; Tammy Jorgenson, Waconia; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Virgil and Russell; his two wives.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, March 22, at Grace Lutheran Church with The Reverend Robert Iverson officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is in charge of arrangements. The family prefers memorials in lieu of flowers.

(Austin Daily Herald Inc. www.austindailyherald.com)

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Arnold John Peterson, age 93, of Grand Meadow, died on March 15, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Arnold was born on October 4, 1914 in Moscow Township, Freeborn County, to P. Isadore and Jesse (Hayes) Peterson. He was baptized and confirmed at the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church south of Blooming Prairie and he attended District 72 JT in Corning, Minn.

On Oct. 26, 1940, Arnold married Marie VanGrevenhof in Charles City, Iowa. They moved to the Dexter-Grand Meadow area in March of 1941 and he has resided there since. Arnold and Marie farmed the same land since moving here from the Corning area in 1941. Family and friends were very important to Arnold. Everyone enjoyed visiting their farm, from Arnold's cousins on down to the great-grandchildren.

Arnold is survived by his three children; Norma (Richard) Batterson, Rochester, Ronald (Barbara Miller) Peterson, Milton, Wis., and Mavis (Jerry) Bowman Rochester, 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and sister, Elaine (Clarence) Mentel, Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marie in June 2003; two brothers; and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m Thursday, March 20, 2008 at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church in Grand Meadow, Minn., with the Reverend Ann Siverling officiating. Burial will be in the Red Oak Grove Cemetery in rural Austin. Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow and one hour prior to the service at the church Thursday.

[Austin Daily Herald Inc. www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Alan M. "Andy" Anderson, age 48, and formerly of Austin, died Monday, March 10, 2008 in Del City, Oklahoma.

Andy was born Sept. 18, 1959 in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, to Donald and Merlene (Murry) Anderson. He was educated in the public school system. After high school, Andy joined the Navy. During his 20 years of military service, he served proudly on the U.S.S. Midway. Andy met Raquel Espares in the Isles of the Philippines in 1991 and on May 31, 1994 they were married in Guam. Upon being honorably discharged from service, Andy and Raquel made Oklahoma their home. Andy was employed at Tinker AFB where he worked in family support--a job he took great pride in. He loved sports. An avid Minnesota Vikings fan, he lived and breathed Viking Purple. He also golfed, bowled, shot pool, played shuffleboard and loved Halo.

Survivors include his wife, Raquel; sister, Holly; two half brothers, Dave and Rick; two nieces; three nephews; numerous other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will be held 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at Mayer Funeral Home with the Reverend Dennis Tamke officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at Mayer Funeral Home on Wednesday. Military rites will be American Legion Post #91. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

[Austin Daily Herald Inc. www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

George Robert Dreyer, age 83, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on March 17, 2008 at St. John's Lutheran Home in Albert Lea. He was born July 8, 1924 to Carl and Threase (Jacob) Dreyer in Lotts Creek, Iowa. He grew up and attended school in Austin and served in World War II. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he married Georgetta "Jerry" Bannick on May 25, 1946 in Sioux Falls, S.D. George was a Hormel employee for 38 years and an Austin resident for the past 10 years. He taught Sunday School and sang in the choir at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Also a member of VFW Post 1216, George enjoyed farming, sports, fishing and playing cards.

Survivors include his wife, Jerry, Austin; five daughters, Doris (James) Reim, Walport, Ore., Annette Haro, Springfield, Mo., Kay (William) Bauers, Albert Lea, Linda (Daniel) Bloor, Wauchula, Fla., Wendy Thompson; friend, Royce Benhke, New Ulm; son, Randy (Kathy) Dreyer, Waunakee, Wis.; 19 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Threase and Carl; two sisters; one brother; one granddaughter; and one great-grandson.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Austin with the Reverend Robert Seifert officiating. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery. Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church. The family prefers memorials to cancer and heart funds.

[Austin Daily Herald Inc. www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Lillian Watkins, 88, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on March 16, 2008 at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale. She was born May 26, 1919 to Frank and Tillie Johnson in Milaca, Minn. She grew up on the family farm with her four sisters and four brothers. She graduated from Milaca High School and cosmetology school in Minneapolis before moving to Austin to open her own hair salon. She married John Watkins on Jan. 7, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois. They lovingly raised five children: John, Jim, Jay, Jeanette and Jeffrey in Austin. Together Lillian and John owned and operated Austin Beauty Shop and Austin Decorating Center until their retirement. They celebrated 57 happy years of marriage before his passing on June 19, 2000. A member of St. Edward's Catholic Church, Lillian was a volunteer for the American Cancer Society and enjoyed traveling all over the world. Her spirit and determination will always be an inspiration to her family.

She will be sadly missed by her children, John, Jr. (Kathleen) Watkins, Golden Valley, James (Elizabeth) Watkins, Ocala, Fla., Jay Watkins, Decatur, Ill.; Jeanette (Richard) Sathre, Loveland, Colo., Jeffrey (Rebecca) Watkins of Zimmerman; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two sisters, Jean Stout, New Prague, Doris Johnson, Eden Prairie; two brothers, Gunnar (Ruth) Johnson, New Hope, Jerry Johnson, South Haven; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John, Sr.; parents, Tillie and Frank Johnson; two brothers, Einer and Oscar and two sisters, Elsie and Helen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Austin with Father Jon Moore officiating. Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment is at Calvary Cemetery, Austin.

The family prefers memorials to St. Edward's Catholic Church.

[Austin Daily Herald Inc. www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Apr. 29, 1905
Death: May 18, 1976

Bertha Weber Finnegan Fernandez was born April 29,1905, at Darwin, Minnesota, the daughter of N.C. and Anna (Wolf) Weber. She attended schools in Darwin Township and Litchfield, Minnesota.

Bertha married Thomas Finnegan on May 5, 1924 at St. Phillip's Catholic Church, Litchfield. To this union three children were born; Cyril, Mary Ann and Jerome Finnegan. Jerome preceded her in death on Jan. 26, 1972, and Thomas on June 7, 1934. The Thomas Finnegans were engaged in farming in the Litchfield area from 1924 to 1934.

Bertha worked at the Litchfield Hospital until her marriage to Arnold Fernandez at St. Phillip's Catholic Church, Litchfield, on May 31, 1945. Upon her second marriage, she moved to Austin, where she had resided at 2610 12th St. SW for 31 years at the time of her death. To this union one daughter, Lucinda, was born.

Bertha was a member of the congregation of St. Augustine Catholic Church and belonged to the woman's unit. Her special interests were the love of the outdoors, gardening, and fishing. For many years, she was well known for the strawberries she raised and sold. Her main concern was that of the welfare of others and her family came first.

Bertha celebrated her 71st birthday two days before entering the hospital for the last time. The gathering of friends at her birthday parties was enjoyed to the fullest.

Bertha died at 7:40 a.m. May 18, 1976, at St. Olaf Hospital, after an illness of nine years with leukemia. She is survived by her husband, Arnold Fernandez, Austin; one son Cy Finnegan, Beloit, Wisconsin; two daughters, Mrs. Melvin (Mary) Flicek, Mrs. Maurice (Cindy) Waldee, Austin; one daughter-in-law, Mrs. Janis Finnegan, Rochester; one brother Clarence Weber, Litchfield; one sister Alvina Hagen, Darwin, Minn.; 20 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 9 a.m. May 20, 1976 at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Interment was in Grandview Memorial Gardens with grandsons Terry Flicek, Mark Flicek, Tim Flicek, Brian Lubahn, Dennis Finnegan and Mark Finnegan serving as pallbearers. The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Austin Herald, Thursday, May 27, 1976

Transcribed by Mark Ashley

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

#1 of 2 items

Birth: Mar. 9, 1902
Death: Sep. 5, 1977

Arnold Fernandez, 75, died Monday evening at Burr Oak Manor. A retired employe of Hormel Co., he resided at 2610 12th St. SW.

Surviving are step-son, Cyril Finnegan, Beloit, Wis.; two daughters, Mrs. Melvin (Mary Ann) Flicek, Mrs. Maurice (Lucinda) Waldee, Austin; 20 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Mayer Funeral Home.

Austin Herald, Wednesday, 9-07-1977

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#2 of 2 items

FERNANDEZ- Funeral services for Arnold Fernandez, 2610 12th St. SW, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Interment will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens. A wake service will be held at 8 p.m. Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home, where friends may call after 3 p.m. Thursday.

Austin Herald, Tuesday, 9-06-1977

Transcribed by Mark Ashley

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Sep. 23, 1876
Death: Jan. 3, 1961

William T. Moore, 84, died Tuesday afternoon at St. Olaf Hospital.

He resided at 200 5th St. SW, and is survived by a son, Walter Moore, Austin; two granddaughters, Miss Kay Moore and Mrs. Harold Bruce (Zillah), Austin; a great-grandson, Harold Bruce Jr.; a brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Moore, San Bernadino, Calif.; a sister, Mrs. Mabel Delory, Auburn, Wash.; a niece, Mrs. "unreadable" (Vera) "unreadable"

Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon.

Austin Herald

Transcribed by Mark Ashley

NOTE: Mother's maiden name was LONGWORTH

Burial: Oakwood Cemetery, Austin

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Nov. 12, 1844
Death: Sep. 14, 1923

Charles Henry Moore Milwaukee Engineer For 30 Years Dies

Engineer Charles Moore died at his home on south Main street at 8:45 this morning, following an illness of pneumonia and Bright's disease which has confined him to his bed for the past ten days.

Charles Henry Moore was born near Madison, Wis., Nov 12, 1844. He was left an orphan at the age of twelve years. When he was 18 years of age he joined the regular army and for three years fought in the battles of the Civil war. In 1870 he began work for the Chicago Milwaukee Railroad company in the shops of Wells. In November 1872 he became a fireman out of Hokah. At that time Hokah and Wells were division points, and his run was between those places. Later he become an engineer and ran an engine continuously down to the time of the wreck west of Wells eleven years ago, when he was so badly injured that he never recovered.

He ran the construction train that laid the track west from Wells to Dakotas and he ran the first train into Sioux Falls over the C.M. & St. P lines. He was known for his carefulness in running a train and during his thirty years at the throttle had no serious accident which was due to any action of his. The wreck at Wells eleven years ago was caused by the graders leaving a (unreadable) packed dirt between the rails which derailed the locomotive.

Charley Moore was a kindly man, a generous man, a good man. Every one liked him. He loved his home and his family. His chief interest centered about his fireside and those who assembled there. He was a lover of the things that grow and he took great pride in his garden. Since he was incapacitated for work he found pleasure in greeting, his many acquaintances as they wended their way past his house to and from Lafayette park. His genial greeting will be missed by those who always looked toward the shady lawn where he has sat so many summers watching the tide of travelers as it passed by.

He was a member of the Methodist church and was a member of the official board for a number of years. He was also a member of St. Bernard Commandery.

His only living relatives are two sons, Alva B. and Will T. and a daughter Mable, also two grand children Vera and Walter Moore. A son, Roscoe died at the age of 21 years. The funeral will be held from his late residence at 3 o'clock Sunday afternoon under the auspices of the Masonic bodies, St. Bernard Commandery will act as escort and Fidelity lodge will have charge of the services at the cemetery.

---

Burial: Oakwood Cemetery, Austin

Austin Herald, Friday 9-14-1923, page 4, col. 5; transcribed by Mark Ashley 5/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Jun. 23, 1862 Death: Jan., 1912 Mrs. C. H. Moore

Alice M. Dunkel Moore was born in Howard, Penn., June 23rd, 1862. She removed to Woonsocket South Dakota, in 1885.

She was united in marriage to Mr. Chas. H. Moore on December 4, 1894. In the following year the newly united couple came to Austin where they have resided ever since. Mrs. Moore become a Christen in early life and united with the M.E. Church in the year 1876, and has been a consistent member of that communion to this hour.

She has been for the last year a great sufferer, and for the last few months has been living with death in sight and with the full expectations that the time of her tarrying here was very short. The pain attending her malady was increasingly great up to the last and in it she had the heartfelt sympathy of her neighbors and friends. In her suffering she was patient to such a degree as to cause especial remark from those who visited her from time to time as well as from those who waited upon her through her trying illness. Her resignation to the Divine will was an inspiration to all who came in contact with her.

She was a loving and faithful wife, a sister tried and true, a neighbor in the best sense of the term, full of kindness and helpfulness, a friend who deeply loved her associates in the church and circle in which she moved, and a Christen who bore the fruits of the Spririt in her life. Those who knew her best were most outspoken in their appreciation.

She will be missed the more becuase she was so much to her friends, her family, her church and her neighbors.

She died on Thursday, January 18th, at 1:20 p.m., aged 47 years, 6 months and 25 days.

She leaves her husband, Mr. Chas. H. Moore, one sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Hill of Austin; three brothers, L. G. Dunkel of Altoona, Pa., P.J. Dunkel of Punxsutawny, Pa., and J.A. Dunkel, Mechanicsburg, Ohio. Besides these she leaves a host of friends who have highly appreciated her good works and her pleasing personality.

The funeral services will be held on Sabbath at 2:30 p.m. at the house, and at 3:00 pm at the Methodist Episcopal Church. The services will be conducted by the pastor, Rev. J. F. Frank Stout.

The casket of the late Mrs. C. H. Moore will not be opened at the Church. Friends please take note.

---

Austin Daily Herald

Transcribed by Mark Ashley

Burial: Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Kenneth L. Benesh, age 79, of Myrtle, Minnesota, died on March 19 at St. John's Lutheran Home.

Kenneth was born on Sept. 16, 1923, in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, the son of Louis and Mabel (Saman) Benesh. He attended and graduated from Austin High School. He furthered his education at St. Olaf College and North Dakota State. Kenneth proudly served his country in the Army.

After his discharge he returned to Freeborn County where he was united in marriage to Doris Larson on June 23, 1957 in Hayward. Kenneth farmed all of his life in the Myrtle area and he and Doris owned and operated Ken's Place in Myrtle. He enjoyed raising cattle and going to cattle shows. Kenneth was known for supporting the youth in raising and showing cattle. He also enjoyed fishing. Kenneth was a member of Trondhjem Lutheran Church. Kenneth was a devoted friend to many people who will also remember him.

Kenneth is survived by his brothers and sister-in-law, Daryl (Pat) Larson, Erwin (Ruth) Larson, Lucille (Bill) Stephenson; cousin, Roger Saman; and numerous Benesh cousins, nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Doris.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 24, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Hayward Lutheran Church. Pastor John Malm will officiate. Burial will be at the Bohemian National Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Freeborn County Servicemen's organizations.

To sign the guest-book go to: www.bayview funeral.com.

Original obituary on www.austindailyherald.com March 22, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Bernard J. Kirtz, age 86, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Infinia Healthcare Center in Owatonna.

Bernie was born March 8, 1922 in Windom Township to Peter and Mary (Gilgenbach) Kirtz. On Sept. 6, 1954 he was united in marriage to Aniceta "Ann" Kloeckner. She preceded him in death on March 10, 1992.

Bernie worked at the George A. Hormel Company for 42 years as a sheet metal worker. He enjoyed gardening and traveling. During World War II he served in the 30th Division of the United States Army from 1942 to 1945.

Survivors include two brothers-in-law: Del Hobbs, Austin, Minn., Victor Jensen, Adams, Minn.; three sisters-in-law: Mildred Fasbender, Austin, Minn., Julaine Wencl, Owatonna, Minn., Elaine Kloeckner, Adams, Minn.; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Mary Kirtz; seven siblings, Kathryn Kirtz, Leo Kirtz, John Kirtz, Leona Kirtz, Mary Hobbs, Madeline Adams, Elizabeth Underdahl.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. There will be a 6:30 p.m. wake service on Monday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. and also from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91. The casket bearers will be Thomas Wencl, Jerry Wencl, Dennis Wencl, Michael Fasbender, Dennis Kelm, Christopher Ashley. Memorials are preferred to Calvary Cemetery or Queen of Angels Catholic Church.

Original obituary on www.austindailyherald.com March 22, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Rolland Dale Dodge, age 90, of Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on Friday March 21, 2008 at the Grand Meadow Healthcare Center.

Rolland was born on August 11, 1917 in Oacoma, South Dakota, to Marie Stagg and Burt Davidson. He graduated from Austin High School.

On June 11, 1941, Rolland married Peg Barkhuff in Owatonna, Minnesota. In 1943 he entered the service and was part of one of the first assaults on Iwo Jima and received a bronze star for bravery and heroic deeds. He was also a medic and pharmacist first mate.

He was a member of the Elks Club and a past president of the Austin Jaycees.

Rolland is survived by his son, Rick (Dianne) Dodge, Byron, Minn.; daughter: Cindy McNiff (special friend Ray Hemenway Sr.), Grand Meadow, Minn.; four grandchildren: Shayne Dodge, Nicole Dodge, Michelle Garner, and Todd (Adrianne) McNiff; four great-grandchildren: Luke McNiff, Emily McNiff, Justin McNiff, and A'lexus Nichols, and one great-great-grandchild, Jadavin McNiff, and a sister, Fern (Art) Houston, Red Wing, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his wife Peg in 1995, a brother, and sisters.

There will be a celebration of life from 11 to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at the Meadows Assisted Living Chapel in Grand Meadow, Minn.

Hindt Funeral Home-Grand Meadow is in charge of arrangements.

Original obituary on www.austindailyherald.com March 22, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Violet Dessa Jacobson, 84, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Thursday, March 20, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Olmsted County, Minnesota.

She was born December 11, 1923 in Chester Township, Iowa, to Elias and Carrie (Gelhar) Jerred.

Violet married Russell "Jake" Jacobson on May 12, 1944 at the St. Olaf Parsonage in Austin. Violet worked at Hormel until the first of her children were born, then stayed at home to raise the kids. Violet often helped out on the family farm, feeding lambs by hand and tending to several acres of gardens.

She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church prior to becoming a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in 1953.

Violet was preceded in death by her husband Russell Jacobson, and by her sisters, Gertrude and Gladys.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church with The Rev. Glenn Monson Officiating. Interment was in the Grandview Cemetery south of Austin.

Casket Bearers were: Rhonda Klapperich, Jason Holland, Cheryl Holland, Kim Chambers, Brooke Holland, Jesse Jacobson, Jerred Holland, and Christopher Klapperich

Honorary Bearers were: Ben Chambers, Noah Holland, and Tom Winkels.

Violet is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Allen) Holland, Wabasha, Minnesota, her son, Bruce (Linda) Jacobson, Oostburg, Wisconsin, by grandchildren: Rhonda, Jason, Kim, Brooke, and Jesse, by step-grandchildren: Wendy, Cindi, Tammy, and Kari, 3 great grandchildren, by 11 step-great-grandchildren, by sisters: Beatrice Hansen, Rochester, Minnesota, Hazel Eng, of Lindstrom, Minnesota, Dawn (Julius) Munt, Robbinsdale, Minnesota, and by a brother, Robert (Joyce) Jerred, Kasson, Minnesota.

Arrangements were by Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin, Minnesota.

Copyright © 2008 Austin Daily Herald Inc.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mildred Jech, age 81, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on March 24, 2008 at Stewartville Care Center in Stewartville.

Mildred Alice Queensland was born Jan. 16, 1927 to Christian and Isabel Sophia (Olson) Queensland in Iowa. She married LeVerne Jech on June 21, 1946 in Grand Meadow. They made their home in Austin where they lived their entire married life. Mildred worked at St. Mark's Lutheran Home as a nursing assistant. A member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, she was a good cook and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, reading and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and two sisters in Spring Valley.

Survivors include two sons, Craig (Christyn) Jech, Rochester, Minn., Donald (Emma) Jech, San Francisco, Calif.; two daughters, Janet (Roger) Pfeifer, Blooming Prairie, Minn., Marlys Ellis, San Jose, Calif.; twelve grandchildren, Jason, Bradley, Shannon, Benjamin, Ryan, Andrew, Erikka, Brittini, Alexandra, Sara, Katie and Samuel; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Dorothy Ferguson, Spring Valley, and Iona Windorf, both of Spring Valley; one brother, Harold Queensland, Ostrander; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, LeVerne in 1992; her parents; sister, Helen; two brothers, Carl and Clarence.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, March 28, 2008 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Austin with The Reverend Karen Behling officiating. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Worlein Funeral Home in Austin is in charge of arrangements. Friends may call at the church one hour prior to the service. Casket bearers are Chris Queensland, Dale Queensland, Randy Queensland, Jerome Wendorff, Douglas Ferguson and Steven Hovda.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

William Douglas "Bill" Blowers, 57, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Friday, March 21, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted County, Minnesota.

He was born May 29, 1950 to Clifford and Adeline (Douglas) Blowers in Mankato, Minn. He attended St. Johns Lutheran Parochial School and Austin High School, graduating in 1968. While attending Mankato State University, he managed the MSU college radio station. He married Ramona Warrington in 1970 in Austin. They were later divorced. After completing his education at MSU, Bill worked as an announcer and engineer at various radio stations, including a station in Northwood and KAUS Radio in Austin. A member of St. John's Lutheran Church and past member of the Austin Jaycees, Bill enjoyed watching and listening to sports.

Survivors include his son, William Douglas Blowers, II, New Orleans, La.; mother, Adeline Blowers, Austin; brother, John (Joyce) Blowers, Farmington; sister, Betty Svendsen, Fort Collins, Colo.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clifford and a brother, James on Dec. 31, 2007.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 29, 2008 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Austin with The Reverend William Natzke officiating. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m., Friday, March 28 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. The family prefers memorials to St. John's Lutheran Church or donors choice.

Original from Austin Daily Herald, www.austindailyherald.com, Mar. 26, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Michael Peter Wagner, age 65, died in Veteran's Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, on March 19, 2008.

Michael was born on April 6, 1942, to Nick and Margaret Wagner in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota. He attended Columbus Grade School and graduated from Pacelli High School. He enlisted in the Army and was married to Kristina Modler on Oct. 9, 1965 in Recklinghausen, Germany. Michael graduated from Mankato State College and became a certified public accountant. He spent many years working as an accountant for the U.S. government.

Michael is survived by his children, Jessica (Paul) Schwatz, Youngsville, N.Y.; Nikolas Wagner and Michael Wagner, Daytona Beach, Fla.; granddaughters, Hannah and Kristina Schwatz; sisters, Katherine Prelesnik, Rio Vista, Calif., Margaret (Robert) Beck, Austin, Rosemary Linden, Jeanne Hermanson, Gretchen McNamara, all of Hastings, Minn.; Barbara (Thomas) Burke, San Diego, Calif.; brothers, John (Elaine) Wagner and Joseph (Rita) Wagner, Austin, James (Kay) Wagner, Owatonna, Minn.; sisters-in-law, Muriel Wagner, Betty Wagner and Sandra Hentges, all of Austin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mildred Schirmer, Mary Enright and Joanne Simones; brothers, George, Nicholas Paul, David, Thomas and William; sister-in-law, Marian Wagner; brothers-in-law, Lawrence Enright and Frederick Simones.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Original from Austin Daily Herald, www.austindailyherald.com, Mar. 26, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Laura Eva Akkerman, age 86, died on March 24, 2008, at her home in Brownsdale, Mower County, Minnesota.

Laura was born on July 31, 1921, in Eagle Bend, Minnesota, the daughter of Harry and Bertha (Fritz) Moellerman. She graduated from St. Cloud Teachers College, in St. Cloud, Minn. She taught in Stewartville, Owatonna, and Albert Lea. Laura was united in marriage to Alvin Akkerman on Nov. 5, 1955, in Steele County, Minn. After the couple moved to Brownsdale, Laura was a substitute teacher in the Brownsdale School. Laura taught Sunday School, was in the Brownsdale Study Club, and loved her cats, cooking, and gardening.

Laura is survived by two sons, Alan and Ron Akkerman, both of Brownsdale, Minn.; daughter, Karen Kellerman, Fort Myers, Fla.; sister, Mary (Leo) Tautges, Brainerd, Minn.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alvin, in 1989; and one infant daughter.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Brownsdale, and one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 27, 2008, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Brownsdale with Vicar Jeffery Sage officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

Original from Austin Daily Herald, www.austindailyherald.com, Mar. 26, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Glendon Lewis Stearns, age 84, died peacefully on March 21, 2008 at his home in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota.

Glendon, or "Stu," as he was known to his friends, was born in Bowman, North Dakota, on June 9, 1923. He was the son of Glen and Florence (Lewis) Stearns who moved their family to Austin when Glendon was a young child. He graduated from Austin High School.

He volunteered for service in the Army at the start of World War II and served in the 11th Airborne Division as a paratrooper in the Pacific campaigns at New Guinea and the Philippines. Glendon was with the first group of US soldiers to land in Japan after the surrender. He returned to Austin to work in the Hormel plant after the war. He married Margaret Everson in 1946, and the couple had three children. Glendon worked at a variety of jobs at Hormel, finishing his career in the machine shop. Active in his church and with the Boy and Girl Scouts when his children were young, he taught his family by example to "leave it better than you found it."

He had an infectious sense of fun and was always willing to lend a hand to a friend or neighbor. Glendon and Margaret were fond of traveling and took their family on many long driving trips across the US. A highlight was a month-long camping trip when the pair were in their 70's up the Alcan Highway to above the Arctic Circle in Alaska and back to Austin.

Glendon is survived by Margaret, his wife of 61 years; son, John, Austin; daughter, Judy, Ketchikan, Alaska; grandchildren, Troy Stearns and Kelli Farrais, Houston, Texas; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joyce Brady; and son, Michael.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 27, 2008 at Faith Evangelical Free Church in Austin. Friends may call from 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, March 26 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

Original from Austin Daily Herald, www.austindailyherald.com, Mar. 26, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Barbara S. Berg, age 46, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, died on March 22, 2008 following a battle with cancer.

Barb King was born on March 9, 1962 in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, to Dave and Carol King. She graduated from Austin High School in 1980 and Austin College in 1982.

She then attended the University of Minnesota and received her medical degree from the School of Medicine. Barb became a partner with Southdale Pediatrics in 1985 working primarily from their Eden Prairie and Edina locations. Barb had a passion for travel, cooking, gardening, reading, her pets and she enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Barb will be missed by her family, many friends and patient families that she came to know throughout her career as a pediatrician.

Barb is survived by her husband, Jim Berg, Eden Prairie, formerly of Austin; parents, Dave & Carol King of Austin; brother, Brian King, Austin; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2008 at Westwood Community Church, Excelsior, Minn. Memorials are preferred to CaringBridge.org, Westwood Community Church, American Diabetes Association or American Cancer Society.

Original from Austin Daily Herald, www.austindailyherald.com, Mar. 27, 2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Birth: Jan. 13, 1931
Death: Mar. 26, 2008

Sylvan Arthur Faas, 77, of St. Ansgar, Mitchell County, Iowa, died on March 26, 2008 at the Veterans Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn.

He was born Jan. 13, 1931 to Benedict and Mabel (Winer) Faas in Stacyville, Iowa, where he grew up and attended school. After completing his education, Sylvan made a living hauling grain with his truck. He enlisted in the Marine Corp and was stationed in Korea.

He married Virginia Rohde on Jan. 9, 1954 in Stacyville. Sylvan owned and operated Faas Transport until 1983, but health problems forced him to retire. An active member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Lyle and past commander of American Legion in Lyle, he enjoyed fishing, especially with the grandchildren; gardening, flowers and collecting.

Survivors include his wife, Virginia, St. Ansgar, Iowa; daughter, Betty (Richard) Rosenberg, St. Ansgar; three sons, George (Bonnie) Faas, Mona, Iowa, Greg (Mindy) Faas, Osage, Iowa; Gary (Kelly) Faas, Lyle; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Margaret Heuman, Stacyville, Iowa; Marlene (Darwin) Mauer, Denver, Iowa; sister-in-law, Monica "Mike" Faas, Stacyville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one great-granddaughter, Bree Rosenberg; three brothers, Bobbie, Marvin, John and one sister, Irene Neis. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 31, 2008 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Lyle with Father Reuben Spinler officiating. Visitation will be held at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin from 2-4 p.m., Sunday and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Woodbury Cemetery with military honors by Lyle American Legion.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mildred Peterson, age 97, of Grand Meadow, Moweer County, Minnesota, and formerly of Rochester, Minnesota, died on March 27, 2008 at the Grand Meadow Healthcare Center, where she had resided for a short time.

Mildred Peterson was born on Aug. 10, 1910 in Grand Meadow, Minnesota, to Albert and Helen (Nelson) Peterson. She graduated in 1927 from Grand Meadow High School and went on to attend Business School in Minneapolis. Mildred worked in Bethesda, Maryland during the war and sang in the church choir for the King of Norway while in Bethesda. She also worked at Spencer-Burrington Dental office as a receptionist and at Langdon's Motel in Rochester as a desk clerk. Mildred enjoyed reading, bird watching, and loved cherry blossoms. She enjoyed her extended family tremendously.

She is survived by her sisters; Agnes Olson, Grand Meadow, Ardes Rote, West Minister, Colo., and Gladys Fruth, Grand Meadow; sister-in-law, Bette Hedstrom-Peterson, and many nieces and nephews.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, step-mother, and two brothers.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 30, 2008 at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church in Grand Meadow, with Reverend Ann Siverling officiating. Burial will be at the Bear Creek Cemetery.

The Hindt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com 3/28/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Elvera B. Krutsinger, age 74, of Grand Meadow, Mower County, Minnesota, died March 26, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center in Austin.

Elvera Blanche Sheely was born on Aug. 13, 1933 at Blue Earth, Minn., to Elbert and Lavina (Moss) Sheely. She attended schools at Onamia, Fairmont, Huntley, and Rose Creek, Minnesota.

She was married to Robert Hovland in Rose Creek, Minn., on June 20, 1954. They had one son, Dwayne. They divorced in 1961. She married Earl Ellenbaum on July 10, 1965 in Austin. He died in 1980. On July 17, 2001, Elvera married Claude Krutsinger in Sioux Falls, S.D. He died in 2002. She lived in Austin and Albert Lea, and many years in Sioux Falls, S.D. and returned to the Austin area in June of 2003. She was a resident of the Grand Meadow Healthcare facility these last years.

Elvera is survived by five siblings; Jenny Sheely Bartz, Winona, Minn., Darold (Mary Jo) Sheely, Elkton, Minn., Robert (Elsie) Sheely, Rose Creek, Darlene Sheely Ulwelling, Brownsdale, and Mike (Connie) Sheely, Rochester; sister-in-law, Doris Jensen Sheely, Dexter, Minn.; brother-in-law, Paul Ulwelling, Dexter, Minn., and many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; son, Dwayne; and two brothers, John and Harold Sheely.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2008 at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow, with Pastor John Schultz officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Dexter Cemetery.

Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com 3/28/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Arlene Catherine Miller, 86, of Dexter, Mower County, Minnesota, died on March 26, 2008, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota.

Arlene Catherine Sievertsen was born Dec. 22, 1921, on a farm near Grand Meadow, Minnesota, to Fred and Carrie (Rhubee) Sievertsen.

She married Robert Miller on June 27, 1943, in Spring Valley, Minn. The couple made their home on a farm near Dexter, Minn. Arlene loved to work outside in her flower and vegetable gardens. She also enjoyed taking care of her chickens. She was a very hard worker, never complained and always had a smile for everyone. She loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Bob; daughter, Colleen (Don) Tebay, Brownsdale; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Arlene was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Hermes, and son Garry.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 31, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield with the Reverend Mark Goossen officiating. Interment will be in the Grand Meadow Cemetery, Grand Meadow, Minn. Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield and one hour before the service on Monday.

Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com 3/28/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Edward C. Decker, age 85, formerly of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died at his home in St. Louis, Missouri on Tuesday, March 18, 2008.

Edward was born in Austin on April 28, 1922, the son of the late Leonard R. and Blanche M. (Christie) Decker. He graduated from St. Augustine High School in 1940, and attended Austin Junior College.

Edward graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in mechanical engineering. He spent most of his professional career in St. Louis, Mo., where he met and married Marian L. O'Malley, who preceded him in death after 55 years of marriage.

He was also preceded in death by one son, William M. Decker.

Edward is survived by his children: Mary C. (Larry) Twellman, Dan (Gayle) Decker, Patrick (Cathie) Decker, and Tim (Wendy) Decker, as well as 15 grandchildren, all of the St. Louis, Mo., area. He is also survived by one sister, Ruth (Decker) Seitz, Pittsburgh, Pa, and several nieces and nephews, including David (Nancy) Decker, Adams, Minn., Jim (Judy) Decker of Minneapolis, Minn., and Rich (Diane) Decker, Rochester, Minn.

He was preceded in death by brothers William R. (Bill) Decker of Austin, Minn., James J. (Jake) Decker of Hibbing, Minn., and Mary (Decker) Retica, Hibbing, Minn.

A Mass of Christian burial was held Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at St. Clement of Rome Church in Des Peres, Mo.

Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com 3/29/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Stella Prestegard, age 104, died on Thursday, March 27, 2008 at Adams Health Care Center.

Stella (Hatlestad) Prestegard was born on April 2, 1904 in Lodi Township, Mower County. She was the daughter of Sivert and Matilda (Stangeland) Hatlestad. Stella was baptized and confirmed in the rural Bethany Lutheran Church. After attending country school in Lodi Township, she worked as a clerk for Price and Walstad General Store in LeRoy, Minn.

On Feb. 23, 1927 Stella was united in marriage to John H. Prestegard. Two children were born to this union, Betty and Lorraine. Together they farmed in the area for 23 years before moving to LeRoy in 1950. After breaking her hip May of 2001, her home has been the Adams Health Care Center.

She is survived by a daughter Lorraine (Richard) Cray of Chester, Iowa; seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren.

Stella was preceded in death by her husband John, daughter and son-in-law Betty and Robert Maurer, two brothers, and three sisters.

Funeral services for Stella will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 4, 2008 at the LeRoy Evangelical Lutheran Church in LeRoy, Minn. with the Rev. Thomas Kolden officiating. Friends may call 1 hr prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the LeRoy Lutheran Cemetery.

Hindt Funeral Home, LeRoy, Minn. is in charge of arrangments

Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com 3/29/2008

©2008 MNGenWeb