Leona Elliott, age 92, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at Primrose Place.

Leona Mae Crawford was born on July 14, 1915 to William and Elsie (Garrett) Crawford at the family farm home in Faulk County, S.D., where she grew up working alongside her dad doing farm chores and field work. Leona attended Myron Township Elementary School through the eighth-grade, and later as an adult, she earned a high school equivalency diploma.

On June 5, 1935 Leona married George Elliott at Selby, S.D. They began their married life farming in Faulk County, where they had two children: Wesley and Anna Mae. In 1942 the family moved to Aberdeen where Leona worked as a cook at Woolworths lunch counter and became very active in the Women of the Moose serving in all the elected offices.

In 1955 George's work took them to Austin, Minnesota, and a few years later to Winona, Minn. where they resided until his death in 1999. While there Leona became very active in the Eastern Star, again serving in all the elected offices, including that of Worthy Matron three times.

In 2003, Leona returned to Aberdeen to be closer to family. Two years ago she moved into an apartment at Primrose Place. Leona was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church, where she was baptized in 1948. She enjoyed gardening, dancing, and playing cards, especially bridge. Leona loved to travel and spend time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Leona is survived by her children, Wes (Arlene) Elliott, Aberdeen, S.D., Anna Mae Sorom, Las Vegas, Nev.; eight grandchildren: Wes II (Anne) Elliott, South Riding, Va., Jon (Karen) Elliott, Inwood, W.V., Mark Elliott, Winchester, Va., Jason (Staci) Elliott, Manassas Park, Va., David Elliott, Killeen, Texas, E. Michael (Michelle) Sorom, Las Vegas, Nev., Richard D. Sorom, Las Vegas, Nev., William T. (Kathleen) Sorom, Las Vegas, Nev.; sixteen great grandchildren: Matthew, Zachary, Connor, Alexandra, Joshua, Jennifer, Stephen, Issac, Morgan, and Trinity Elliott; and, Marty, Russell, Ruthie, Jeffrey, Kaylamae, and Samantha Sorom, and sister, Ione Zahalka.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Elliott; two sisters, Florence Lauritzen & Ramona Buchanan; brother Floyd Crawford; and son-in-law Earl R. Sorom.

The funeral service for Leona was 10 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2008 at Plymouth Congregational Church with Pastor Richard Fylling officiating. Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 30, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Winona, Minn. Visitation was 2-8 p.m., Friday with family present from 5-8 p.m. at Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home, 1111 S. Main St. Aberdeen.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, April 27, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Rose Ehmke of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on Friday, April 25, 2008 at Freedom Pointe, an assisted living residence in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

Rose Lorraine Ellingson was born on September 30, 1920 on a farm in Worth County, Iowa, the daughter of Cora and Oscar Ellingson. She graduated from Northwood Iowa High School in 1937 and Paul's Beauty School in St. Paul, Minn. in 1938. She was a beautician for nine years and was employed at the George A. Hormel Company for 35 years, retiring in 1982.

On April 15, 1945 she married Melvin Herbert Ehmke at St. Michaels church near Waltham, Minnesota. They had one daughter, Sheila, on March 30, 1946. Melvin passed away suddenly in 1968.

During their years together they were constant companions when they weren't working at Hormels. They worked in partnership on a trucking business, gardened, took flying lessons, flew (Rose was the navigator) their own plane all over the United States, restored a car, remodeled the basement of their home and worked on The Ranch, their farm near Waltham.

In her retirement she enjoyed many hobbies; stained glass, china painting Hardanger embroidery, quilt making, genealogy, gardening, her computer, maintaining her duplex in Minneapolis as well as helping her daughter with anything she could think of to make Sheila's life easier and better. She had pets throughout her life from Billy, the goat, her companion as a child to her last faithful friend, Norway, the calico cat who was her constant companion the last years of her life.

She is survived by her daughter: Sheila Ehmke Robb, son-in-law Ted Robb, sister-in-law Lorraine Ellingson, brother-in law Martin Ehmke, sister-in-laws Luella Hagge, Lucille Peterson, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents Oscar and Cora Ellingson, her brother Orville Ellingson and her husband Melvin Ehmke.

The visitation will take place Monday, April 28, 2008 at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin from 4 to 8 p.m. and one hour before the service at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Austin where she was a faithful member for many years. The service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 with internment at Grandview Memorial Gardens.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, April 27, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mildred Marie Bodensteiner, age 94, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died Thursday, April 24, 2008 at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center. Mildred was a lifetime Austin resident, graduating from Central High School.

She was married on October 7, 1936 to William Bodensteiner. Mildred worked at Hormel before staying home to raise a family. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, quick wit and spunk. The family extends a special thanks to the staff at Comforcare for their kindness.

Survivors include her children, William (Wendy), Terry, Ann, Joan (Joe) and Susan; grandchildren, John (Greta), Joe and Steven Sattler, Sara Heimer, Kari Kjorstad; great-grandchildren, Hailey Heimer, Maya and Jacob Kjorstad.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Monday, April 28, 2008 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, April 27, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Frieda Oudekirk, age 97, died Thursday morning, April 24, 2008, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Frieda was born on Feb. 22, 1911, the daughter of Jacob and Hattie (Bestge) Risius in Ackley, Iowa. The family moved to Minnesota in 1914. Frieda went to school in District 41 in the Brownsdale area and graduated from Austin High School in 1928. She went one year to normal training and taught school for several years.

Frieda Risius was united in marriage to Eldred Oudekirk on Oct. 20, 1939, in Brownsdale. She was a member of First Baptist Church, taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and was the church pianist for many years. Frieda and her husband farmed for 35 years and moved to an acreage near Brownsdale. Frieda enjoyed doing embroidery work, crocheting, reading, playing the piano and being with her family. Frieda had been a resident of The Cedars in Austin.

Frieda is survived by two sons, Wilbur (Diane) Oudekirk, Dodge Center, Minn.; Darrell (Joy) Oudekirk, Austin; three daughters, Janice (John) Holst, Brownsdale, Minn.; Cheryl (Roger) Bowie, Centralia, Ill.; Linda Oudekirk, Rochester, Minn.; brother, Harry (Evelyn) Risius, Bricelyn, Minn.; 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

Her parents, two brothers, and four sisters preceded her in death.

The funeral service for Frieda Oudekirk wwere held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at the First Baptist Church in Brownsdale, Minn., with Reverend Jerry Harris officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale. Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, Brownsdale was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, April 27, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Lucille Hansen, age 93, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on April 27, 2008, at Austin Medical Center.

Lucille Margaret Dietrich was born on December 29, 1914 to Frank and Ellen (Sundby) Dietrich in Austin. She graduated from Austin High School in 1933 where she discovered a lifelong interest in art. Lucille worked for several years at the Federal Bakery, often receiving praise from the manager for her creative window displays.

She married Harry L. Hansen, on December 16, 1941. They celebrated 64 years of marriage in 2005. Lucille was a child care provider for several years. She was known for her baking, especially apple pies, which she would give to friends and shut-ins. She also made her own greeting cards, including the verses inside the cards. She enjoyed embroidery, giving away her work to family and friends. Lucille was a strong and loving support to her family, caring for her elderly parents and her husband when he became ill. She loved her neighbors and friends; many of them were acquaintances for several years. A member of Grace Lutheran Church for many years, Lucille had a strong faith, evidenced by her words and deeds.

She is survived by a daughter, Ellen (Robert) Cox, Rochester; son, Stephen Hansen, Austin; six grandchildren, Joel (Lisa) Cax, David Cox, Christian Cox, Amy (Sean) O'Hara, Nicole Knutson, Jessica (Dominic) Kosmosky and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry, in 2006; her parents and one sister, Gladys Jensen.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin with the Reverend Robert Iverson officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Worlein Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. [Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, April 29, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ruby Jeanette Lee, 99, died on April 29, 2008, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota.

Ruby was born on March 20, 1909, the daughter of Anton and Marie (Moe) Lee, in Vernon Township, Minn. She was baptized and confirmed at West St. Olaf Church in rural Hayfield, Minnesota.

On Feb. 22, 1927, she was married to Jerold Lee in Hayfield. To this union, eight children were born. Two died at infancy and one son, Merlyn Lee died in an accidental drowning in 1955. Ruby worked for Lyle Larson farms and with her husband on their farm. She enjoyed cooking, baking, and music.

Ruby is survived by five children, Eunice (Morris Linbo) Boysen, Austin; Mavis (Donald) Odegard, Seattle, Wash.; Erling (Lucille) Lee, Zumbro Falls, Minn., Delmar (Danielle) Lee, Glendale, Calif., Don (Judy) Lee, Kasson, Minn., 23 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, three brothers, and five sisters.

The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, May 5, 2008 at Evanger Lutheran Church, in rural Sergeant, Mower county, Minnesota, with the Reverend Robert Bergland officiating. Interment will be in Evanger Lutheran Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m. Sunday, May 4, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield, and one hour before the service at the church on Monday.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 1, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Richard Eugene "Andy" Anderson, age 76, of Noel, Missouri, passed away on March 31, 2008, at St. John's Regional Medical Center in Joplin, Missouri.

Andy began his journey on Jan. 10, 1932 in Omaha, Nebraska, born to the late Louis and Margaret Anderson. He proudly served his country in the Navy during the Korean War. Andy moved to Noel in 1982 upon his retirement from Hormel after 34 years of dedicated employment. He married Elizabeth J. "Betsy" Rogge on Oct. 7, 1994, at the United Methodist Church in Noel, Missouri. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding snowmobiles, and bowling. Andy was known by family and friends as a man who you could believe in.

He was survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth "Betsy" Anderson; his first wife, Beverly Anderson, Austin; four daughters, Sharie Olesiak, East Bethel, Minn., Jill (Richard) Deyo, Hastings, Minn.; Debbie (Mark) Johnson, Austin, Lisa Anderson and partner Patrick, of Minneapolis, Minn.; four step-daughters, Vivian Alderman and Brian Brooks, Noel, Mo., Marjorie (Gregory) Dodson, Pineville, Mo., Margaret Rogge and Amy Finley, Noel; two step-sons, Brian (Pam) Woodworth, Noel, Scott (Debbie) Woodworth, five grandchildren, Mathew Deyo, Joshua Deyo, Brady Deyo, Christina Johnson and Adam Johnson; 13 step-grandchildren; nephew, Billy Anderson; niece, Mary Jo McCalister; along with many friends who will remember Andy as a dear friend and neighbor.

A memorial service was held on April 3, 2008, at the Walker-Dowd Funeral Home Chapel in Anderson, Mo. Burial will be at a later date in Grandview Memorial Cemetery in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 1, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Angie Kay (Halbach) Kruger, 46, of St. Ansgar, Iowa died on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Minn., from complications of a massive stoke. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Angela was born in Osage, Mitchell county, Iowa, on June 23, 1961 the daughter of Jerome and Monica (Salz) Halbach. She attended Visitation Grade School, Stacyille, Iowa, and graduated from St. Ansgar High School in St. Ansgar, Iowa. She completed a two-year mechanical drafting program at Hawkeye Institute of Technology in Waterloo, Iowa.

Angie was married to Jon Kruger of Grafton and they lived in St. Ansgar. She enjoyed all of her co-workers at the various places she worked, including the following area businesses; Acorn Park Golf Course, Brower Drug, Stadheim Jewelers and most recently as a quality assurance tech for Malt-O-Meal for 10 years. She was involved in numerous activities including backyard campfires, remodeling her home, and serving on the board for the Riverside Figure Skating Club. She actively participated in the annual Relay for Life events. Angie loved her family very much and always put others needs in front of her own.

She will be remembered for all she gave, her contagious smile, her ability to light up a room, and how she treated everyone with dignity and respect. Angie's daughter, Stacey, was always a priority and they shared an extremely strong relationship. Angie recently became engaged to Phil Streit of Stacyville, Iowa.

On April 6, 2008 Angie suffered a massive stroke and was taken to St Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn. She spent two weeks in the intensive care unit where she was taken care of by an excellent hospital staff. Angie moved out of ICU to a new room for 10 days before going home to heaven. During her time at the hospital she was always surrounded by family and friends.

Angie is survived by her daughter: Stacey Kruger, St. Ansgar, Iowa; her mother: Monica Halbach, Stacyville, Iowa, her fianc/: Phil Streit, Stacyville, Iowa; brothers: Ed (Barb) Halbach, Clear Lake, Iowa, Joe (Deb) Halbach, Coon Rapids, Minn., Mark (Teresa) Halbach, Glenville, Minn.; sisters: Jeanne (Pete) Traaseth, Brooklyn Park, Minn., PaulaHalbach and Dave Darr of Minneapolis, Minn.; nieces: Danielle, Jacky and Marisa Halbach and Leah Traaseth.

Angie is preceded in death by her father Jerome, brother Kenny and sister-in-law Therese.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2008, at Visitation Catholic Church, Stacyville, Iowa with Father MarvinSalz, Monsignor John Hemann and Father John Moser officiating. Visitation will be on Friday, May 2, 2008 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, Stacyville, with a Rosary at 4 p.m. and Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Burial will be in Visitation Cemetery, Stacyville.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 4, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Joyce Bernice Allan, 79, of Rose Creek, Minn., lost her battle with cancer on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at her home.

Joyce was born Sept. 2, 1928 in Miles City, Mont. to Bernice (Brooks) and Robert Treat. She married Thomas Jacobson on Aug. 17, 1947. Together they had two sons, Thomas Jacobson (wife Mary; son, Shawn; and daughter, Nicole) of Austin, Minn., and Andrew Jacobson (son, Zachary from a previous marriage; wife, Penny; and daughter, Jennifer) of Great Falls, Mont. Zachary and his wife, Amiee, have two sons, Odin and Phoenix.

Joyce later married James Allan on June 25, 1962. Together they had two daughters, Julie Anderson (husband, Theron; daughter, Tessa) of Columbia Falls, Montana, and Judie Allan (fiance, Donnie Negro) of Battle Mountain, Nevada.

Joyce grew up in Miles City, Mont., where she lived with her first husband Tom Jacobson. She attended Macalester College in Minnesota, receiving her teaching certificate in elementary education. In her early adult life Joyce moved to the Flathead Valley in Montana to pursue teaching and raise her two sons. It was there that she met and married James Allan and raised her second family in Columbia Falls. After marrying Jim she was employed at the Hungry Horse Dam, where she worked for approximately four years before becoming a full-time mother. Joyce relocated to Rose Creek, Minn. in 1999 to be near her eldest son and his family.

Joyce was a talented seamstress, making many beautiful things for her family to enjoy and wear. She was also a gifted artist in many different mediums. She was an avid reader, enjoyed writing children's stories, and loved many genres of music, but what were most important to her was her family.

Joyce is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers and a sister.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 4, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Loretta Catherine Danielson, age 96 of Faribault, Minnesota, died in the early morning hours of Friday, May 2, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Loretta was born in Wisconsin on June 12, 1911 to Albert and Mary (Svetlik) Blizek. When she was 1 year old they moved to Jackson, Minn. On Oct. 18, 1932 she was united in marriage to Kenneth Danielson in Armstrong, Iowa. Kenneth preceded her in death on March 28, 1996. In 1945 they moved to Waseca, Minn. where she worked for E.F. Johnson Co. In 1962 they moved to Faribault, Minn. where she worked at the Faribault Regional Center in housekeeping until her retirement in 1976.

Her faith in God was always foremost in her life. She loved flowers, baking and cooking and she did it to perfection for her family. She also loved to travel, especially to Hawaii. Our loss is tremendous.

She leaves behind her children: Rita (Ed) Sheimo, Austin, Minn., Tom and Wally Danielson and Jerry (LaVonne Erickson) Danielson, all of Faribault, Minn. and Pat (Dick) Wilker, Rochester, Minn.; grandchildren: Vicki (Bill) Wright, Stewartville, Minn., Jodi (Todd) Riste, St. Ansgar, Iowa, Randy (Beth) Schroeder, Centennial, Colo., Julie (Al) Schroeder, Austin, Minn., Shelly (Jeff) Hughes and Tom Danielson, both of Faribault, Minn., Lana (Corey) Hunt, Waterville, Minn., Tony (Mary Ann) Danielson, Indiana, Todd Wilker and Tami (Mike) Lewis and Shane Danielson, all of Rochester, Minn.; great grandchildren: Jennifer, Kristin, Mandi, Jim, Brittani, Brianna, Katie and Kristi; three great great grandchildren: Keian, Arianna and Gabriel, along with many friends and relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her infant son Mark, three brothers and two sisters.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Divine Mercy Catholic Church, at Immaculate Conception, in Faribault. Interment will be held at the Calvary Cemetery, Faribault. Visitation will be held at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home in Faribault on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. and at the church on Tuesday for one hour prior to services.

Everyone who met Loretta loved her. She will be missed more than words can say. Her favorite saying was "Bless Your Heart".

For guestbook and further information visit www.park erkohlfuneralhome.com.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 4, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Lester M. Ramseth, age 85, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 2, 2008 at home surrounded by his family.

Lester was born on Aug. 3, 1922 at home in Clayton Township near Elkton, Minn. to Anton J. and Matilda (Johnson) Ramseth. He was the youngest of six brothers and one sister.

He was baptized and confirmed at Marshall Lutheran Church near Elkton. Lester graduated from Elkton High School in 1940. He was active in all sports and received medals for declamatory speaking. Lester farmed the home farm for six years after graduation and raised pure bred hogs.

After that he attended Stockman Beauty school in Minneapolis and graduated in 1948.

In Jan. 1947 he married Myrtle Ask at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Together they started Ramseth Beauty Salon on across from the original A&W root beer stand on First Avenue Northwest. Two years later they purchased the property on Second Street Southwest where the salon is located today. They operated Ramseth Beauty Salon and owned Sterling Beauty Salon until her death in June 1963.

Lester continued the business and his son Gary joined him in 1973. In 1980 he sold Sterling Beauty Salon to Judy Goergen.

On Nov. 27, 1969 he married Jeanette Sorensen in Las Vegas, Nev. In 2001 he semi-retired and continued to work in the beauty salon until December 2006.

He enjoyed playing golf, playing cards at the Elks and being with friends. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Elks and the Austin Country Club.

Lester is survived by his wife of 38 years: Jeanette Ramseth, Austin, Minn.; son: Gary (Kathy) Ramseth, Austin, Minn.; one daughter: Garda (John) Noble, St. Paul Park, Minn.; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 5, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 4008 at Worlein Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the church. Family prefers memorials to donor's choice.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 4, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Elizabeth Merrilyn Vela, age 72 of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died Thursday, May 1, 2008 at Austin Medical Center.

She was born Sept. 25, 1935 in Atco, N.J. to Fred and Marilyn (Chorpenning) Bythewood. Elizabeth lived at Pickett Place in Austin and she enjoyed reading, writing stories, socializing with her friends and attending her grandchildren's activities. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother David Bailey, and sisters Beverly Bailey and Sherry Miron and husband Benny Nerveza.

Elizabeth is survived by her children: Benjamin Vela, McDonald, Tenn., Samuel Vela, Riverside, Calif.; Esther Striker, Austin, Minn.; Stephen Vela, Santa Ana, Calif., Andrew Vela, Garden Grove, Calif., Deborah Nerveza, Austin, Minn., Rebecca Gonzales, Troutdale, Ore.; 12 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter; brother: Paul Bailey, Tigard, Ore.; and sister: Betty Otto, Wash.

A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, May 5, 2008 in The Community Room of Pickett Place. 808 First Dr. N.W., with Pastor Hilmore Williams officiating. Private interment will be held at a later date. The family prefers memorials in lieu of flowers. The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 4, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Earl C. Hackensmith, 82, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 4, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.

He was born May 20, 1925 in Brownsdale, Mower county, Minnesota, to Harry and Lula (Highshoe) Hackensmith. He was raised in the Austin area and graduated from Austin High School. He lived and worked in the Austin area all of his life. He married Gladys (Wolfe) on March 20, 1965 in Austin.

Earl is a retired employee of Hormel Foods with 43 years of service. He loved to fish and be outdoors. He was a very loving husband and father and he loved his grandchildren with all his heart.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his daughters, Carol Jean Bailey and Lucinda (Phil) Buck of Austin and Nancy (Gregory) Caufield, Bloomington, Minn.; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

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

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2008 and the Mayer Funeral Home with the Rev. Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may call from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, at Mayer Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the funeral home on Wednesday. Casket bearers will be Kelly Olson, Mike Malecha, Steven Hackensmith, Everett Hackensmith, Randy Emiliusen and Keith Emiliusen.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 7, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Leo Paul Schaefer, age 73, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 5, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.

Leo was born April 10, 1935 in Austin to Joseph and Celestina (Winkles) Schaefer. He was a laborer. Leo loved bowling, fishing, watching sports and spending time with his children, grandchildren and friends.

Survivors include his children, Debra (Dennis) Aldrich, Faribault, Cindy (Curt) Boyer, Austin, Bruce (Terra) Schaefer, Blooming Prairie, Cinda (Mark) Noble, Lansing; 10 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; siblings, Margaret Whalen, Austin, Dorothy Schlichter, Austin, Sy Schaefer, Austin, Wilfred "Bill" Schaefer, Austin, Helen (Jack) Sershen, Austin, Bernerd (Pat) Schaefer, Austin; former spouse, Marie Turner, Austin; many nieces, nephews, friends and relatives.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Karen Schaefer on Sept. 15, 1985; brother, Raymond Schaefer; sister, Rosemary Danley.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The honorary casket bearers will be Collin Boyer, Catelinn Boyer, Kailee Aldrich. The casketbearers will be Angie Noble, Ronnie Aldrich, Joshua Noble, Christina Boyer, Courtney Boyer, Brianna Aldrich, Tia Schaefer, Nicholas Aldrich.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 7, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Luverne "Andy" Anderson, 87, formerly of Mower county, Minnesota, died on April 23, at Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

Luverne was born October 15, 1920 near Thompson, Iowa to Olaf and Tena Anderson. He graduated from Scarville, Iowa High School. On Nov. 27, 1941 he married Wilma Wuerflein. Luverne was employed at Scarville Coop Elevator prior to enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard in December 1942 and was honorably discharged with a disability July 1944. He was manager of grain elevators, the last being in Sargeant, Minn. He was also the sargeant postmaster, retiring in 1978.

He has resided in Los Fresnos, Texas and Poteet, Texas since his retirement.

Survivors include his sons, David (Vicky) Anderson, Port Angeles, Wash., Warren (Cathy) Anderson, Arlington, Texas; daughter, Christine (Steven) Jensen, Austin; four grandsons; two granddaughters; one great-grandchild; brother, Marvin (Dot) Anderson, Lake Mills, Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his wife.

A memorial service will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church in Vinje, Iowa on Saturday, May 31, at 1 p.m.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 7, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Gordon William Grieme, age 81, of Rose Creek, Mower county, Minnesota, died Monday, May 5, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota. He was born on August 1, 1926 in Volga, South Dakota, to William and Elizabeth (Reppe) Grieme. He graduated with the class of 1944 in Aurora, South Dakota, and eight months later left home to serve in World War II; achieving the rank of corporal, Gordon was stationed in the Philippines and while preparing for a transfer to Japan, the war ended.

After his honorable discharge from the army, he farmed for a short time and married Gertrude Cavanaugh on June 30, 1952 in Gettysburg, South Dakota. He traveled and worked in the Dakotas and Minnesota, hauling gravel for construction projects.

In 1967 Gordon and Gertrude moved to Minnesota, making their home in Rose Creek. Gordon worked for Elk River Concrete, retiring in 1991. A member of Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams, he kept busy on his hobby farm. He enjoyed fixing and building things and worked on his own cars.

Survivors include his wife Gertrude, Rose Creek; five daughters, Linda Grieme (Gregg Kelley), Minneapolis, Minn., Shelley (Andrew) Kivipelto, Minneapolis, Marcia (Steve) Callender, Brooklyn Park, Barb (Ernie) Unruh, Onida, S.D., Donna (Robert) Wilson of Austin; one son, Gary Grieme, Brooklyn Park; 10 grandchildren, Paul and Karen Kelley, Sean and Darren Callender, Roshaan and Raiana Grieme, Abe and Ethan Unruh, Tara and Leslie Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and William Grieme; a brother, Lyle Grieme and a sister, Imogene Hausmann.

Memorial services will be held at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2008, at Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams with the Reverend Shari Mason officiating. Worlein Funeral Home, Austin, is in charge of arrangements.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 7, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Sondra Freese, age 66, died on May 1, 2008 at her daughter's home.

Sondra was born on June 8, 1941 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, to Harold and Myrtle Watson. She attended school in Austin and graduated from Austin High School.

She married Jacob H. Freese on June 18, 1960. They lived near Austin until 1976 when they moved to Lyle, Mower county, Minnesota. They had three children, Carolyn, Doug and Kristin. Sondra became a cook at Lyle Public Schools and eventually drove a school van. She loved her interactions with the children. She also worked at the convenience store in Lyle and had a smile for everyone. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends as well as baking and needlepoint. Our mother was a kind and caring woman who we loved and will miss greatly.

She is survived by her daughters, Carolyn (Doug) Dillman, Roundup, Montana, and Kristin (Kendrick) Deplitch, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; two beloved grandchildren, Carter Dillman and Brianna Deplitch; sisters, Cheryl (Dick) Wood, Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and Mary (Larry) Schreiber, Austin.

She is preceded in death by her father and mother, husband and son.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2008 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Lyle with the Reverend Barbara Finley-Shea Officiating. Interment will be in the Grandview Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Friday from 5-8 p.m. and for one hour before the service at the church.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com -- Austin Daily Herald May 7, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Helen Alice (Christensen) Voigt Veches, age 77, of Weslaco, Texas, and formerly of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on May 6, 2008.

She was born in Rochester, Minn., on May 23, 1930. She was the fourth of five children. She grew up, attended school and raised four children in Austin with her husband of 49 years, Eugene "Bud" William Voigt.

Helen was a faithful member of Christ Episcopal Church, where she served on the vestry and taught Sunday school. She was a dedicated mother who returned to school after raising her children, earning an associate of arts degree in nursing. She continued her education, going on to earn a bachelor of science in nursing, summa cum laude, from Winona State College in 1981 and attending graduate school at the University of Minnesota. She taught nursing at Austin Technical College and Winona State College and worked at several southern Minnesota nursing homes and hospitals. She also worked for the Mower County Health Department.

After the death of her husband, she moved to Pharr, Texas, where she was an active resident of Tropic Star Park. She earned a reputation as a resident health care expert who frequently helped her neighbors obtain medical care. She volunteered in local health clinics, enjoyed painting, gardening and sewing, and loved dancing. In Texas she met Gordon Veches, whom she married in 2003.

She is survived by her husband, Gordon Veches, Weslaco, Texas; children, Patricia (Paul) Hughes, Pacific Palisades, Calif., Rhonda (Michael) Montgomery Milwaukee, Wis., Terry (Wendy) Voigt, Jordan, Minn., Steven (Karen) Voigt, Tacoma, Wash., seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothea Christensen, Las Vegas, Nev; brother, Arthur Christensen, Valencia, Calif.; sister-in-law, Mary Christensen, Juniper, Fla.

A memorial service will be held in Weslaco on May 8, 2008. Interment will be held in July in Austin. Arrangements are being made through McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco.

[original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com - May 8, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mildred Currie Thorson, age 88, of Rose Creek, Mower County, Minnesota, died on May 6, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. The third child in a family of five, Mildred was born June 10, 1919 to George and Inga (Odden) Corson in Austin. She grew up in rural Lyle, Mower county, Minnesota, and attended Red Star School. Her father was a farmer who also worked as a school janitor in Austin. With the help of his wife and all five children, Mildred's father maintained Rose Creek Enterprise Cemetery, mowing and digging graves.

The Depression occurred when Mildred was nine years old, so after completing eighth-grade, she left school to find work. During her employment at St. Olaf Hospital in housekeeping, Mildred lived in a small house owned by the hospital for housing of the housekeeping staff. Mutual friends introduced Mildred to William Thorson. They were married in 1939 in Austin where they made their home for several years. Mildred worked a short time at Geo. A. Hormel & Co. and quit to raise her family when they purchased a farm near Rose Creek.

After Bill's death on January 18, 1970, Mildred worked at the Orange Lantern Cafe in Rose Creek, and later purchased it. She was a longtime member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin and later transferred to Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams. Mildred enjoyed playing cards and bingo, quilting, crocheting, crafts and traveling, including a trip with her mother to California in 1970 to visit relatives. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She lived at the Cedars for about a year, but on July 31, 1997 health concerns required a move to St. Mark's Lutheran Home. Mildred was a kind, caring person, loved by everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Sharon (Worth) Gallentine, Owatonna, Minn., Roger (Joan) Thorson, Thorofare, N.J., Gail (Lyle) Kimpton, Lake Crystal, Thomas (Judy) Thorson, Kenyon, Ruth Mitchell, Austin, Carol (Dan) Pierce, Brownsdale; 26 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Shirley Arett, rural Austin; brother, Melvin (Helen) Corson; nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Inga and George Corson; husband, William; two daughters, Delores Baldwin and Darlene Lavoie; granddaughter, Gelinda; great-granddaughter, Carissa; brothers, Lester and Kenneth Corson; two sons-in-law, Willie Lavoie and David Baldwin.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with The Reverend Shari Mason officiating. Interment will be in Rose Creek Enterprise Cemetery, rural Austin.

[original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com - May 8, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mildred L. Becker, age 91, died on Thursday, May 8, 2008, at Mapleton Community Home in Mapleton, Minn.

Mildred was born on December 15, 1916, to Fred and Hallie (Dunlap) Booher in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. She graduated from Austin High School in 1934 and was united in marriage to Wallace Becker on Sept. 3, 1939 at First Baptist Church.

She was employed as a dental assistant and, in later years, a bank teller in several banking institutions including Sterling State Bank of Austin. She was a member of the Ramsey Golf Club, the Y Matrons in Austin and the First Baptist Church choir. She loved music and had a beautiful singing voice. She was a dedicated and loving wife, mother and grandmother and got great satisfaction out of being with her family. She was a member of Y Matrons, and First Baptist Church choir.

Mildred is survived by her four children: David (Donna) Becker, Houston, Minn., Carole (Ken) Howe, Austin, Minn., Dick (Sue) Becker, Faribault, Minn. and Linda (Frank) Funaro, Mankato, Minn., 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and her husband, Wallace.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, May 12, 2008 at First Baptist Church with Pastor Dave Johnson Officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Larry M. Alm, age 65 of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died unexpectedly on Thursday, May 8, 2008 at his home.

Larry was born on July 22, 1942 to Kenneth and Lucille (Berhow) Alm in Austin. He was joined in marriage to Nancy Carroll, and to that union four daughters were born. A lifelong Austin resident, he worked at Usem's Auto body shop for over 27 years. He married Sherry L. Koetz on Sept. 11, 1984 in Deadwood, South Dakota. Coming from a family of musicians, Larry enjoyed country and blue grass music, which he played. He also enjoyed restoring old cars, attending car shows, camping and the outdoors, spending time with his friends and family. He especially loved woodworking and making walking sticks. He worked at Usem's for over 27 years

Survivors include his wife: Sherry Alm, Austin, Minn.; four daughters: Shawn (Michael) Bartlett, Austin, Minn., Lisa Schlichter, Austin, Minn., Shelly Schultz, Albert Lea, Minn., Annette (Bradley) Peterson, Brownsdale, Minn.; nine grandchildren: Adam, Zachery, Alyssa, Ashley, Timothy, Nicole, Robert, Molly, Alexander; three brothers: Robert Alm, Wabasha, Minn., Kenneth Alm, Wabasha, Minn., Brad Alm,Lyle, Minn.; parents-in-law: Elaine and Arnold Koetz, Lansing, Minn.; sister-in-law: Debbie (Larry) Peck, Austin, Minn.; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Kenneth; twin sisters who died at birth, brother-in-law, Bruce Koetz; nephew, Bryan "BT" Peck.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2008 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lyle with the Rev. Barbara Finley-Shea officiating. Friends may greet the family from noon until 1:30 p.m. at the church on Monday. Interment is at Rose Creek Enterprise Cemetery, rural Austin. Worlein Funeral Home, Austin in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Burnett Lavern (Bud) Johnson, age 87 of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died Thursday, May 8, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota.

Bud was born July 15, 1920 in Austin, Minn. to Oscar and Bernice (Roberts) Johnson.

He graduated from Austin High School and served in the US Army. Bud was married to Betty Lou Bierlen on Nov. 11, 1947 at Myrtle, Minn.

They lived in Austin where he was employed as an electrician with Heise-Roberts Electric. Bud and Betty were avid travelers and enjoyed many winters in Arizona and summers at their lake home as well as traveling in their motor home. He enjoyed gardening, "tinkering" and repairing things.

Bud is survived by sons: Daryl (Dottie) Johnson, Rochester, Minn., Darwin (Becky) Johnson, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; grandchildren: Delia Woodward, St. Louis Park, Minn.; Dan Johnson, Rochester, Minn.; Natalie Johnson, Stevens Point, Wis., Amanda Johnson, Blooming Prairie, Minn., Amy Johnson, Rochester, Minn.; Kyle Johnson, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; two great-grandchildren: Kaelyn Johnson and Jaxon Johnson; brothers: Chuck Johnson, Austin, Minn., Arnie Johnson, Austin, Minn.; step-sister: Dorothy (Jerry) Einertson, Lakeland, Minnesota; and a sister-in-law: Vlasta Johnson, Austin, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty and a son Dean Johnson and brother Dale Johnson.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Kristi Koppel officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. and at St. Olaf Lutheran Church on Tuesday from 1 to 2 p.m. Organist will be Neal Erickson. Casket Bearers will be Delia Woodward, Brendon Woodward, Dan Johnson, Natalie Johnson, Amanda Johnson, Amy Johnson, Kyle Johnson

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Dale Edward Kaderabek was taken to heaven to live with Jesus and his departed family for all eternity on May 6, 2008. Dale died at home with his wife and family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Dale was born and raised in Cresco, Iowa, the second of four children to Edward and Louise (Gilbert) Kaderabek on February 16, 1941. After graduating from high school, Dale enlisted in the Air Force, where he spent four years in Paris, France, working as an Air Policeman in the Protocol Section at Orly International Airport. While in France Dale became the proud father of Shelley Moene. Upon his return to the United States he started a career in radio which led him to KAUS Radio and KAAL-TV in Austin, then known as KMMT TV.

Dale was an on-air personality doing news, weather, disc jockeying and performing as Captain Atom. Dale had two more children, Kimberly Kay and Kris (Kato) Anthony. Dale worked at Austin State Bank, now known as Wells Fargo, managed Lords Diamond Center and Northland Piano and Organ in Oak Park Mall, was an instructor at the Austin Area Vocational School in Sales, Marketing and Human Relations and Small Business Management, managed Anderson Rochester Memorials, was Marketing Manager for Larson Siding and Windows in Rochester and part-time announcer on KNXR Radio in Rochester.

Upon retiring due to back problems Dale worked part-time for Jeff and Renee Anderson at the Austin Anderson Memorials Store until his death. During all of these jobs, Dale traveled around the United States announcing Motor Sports Shows and doing local stock car races at Mason City, Kasson, St. Charles, Cresco, Iowa and Deer Creek Speedway. Dale was the announcer for the Olmstead County Fair Demo Derby. Dale also emceed the Cedar River Days and Fourth of July downtown entertainment in Austin for many years.

Dale enjoyed every job he did but his true love was announcing. Dale was the emcee for the Miss Austin Pageant, was the Executive Director for the Miss Minnesota Pageant and was on the Board of Directors for the Miss America Pageant for many years. Dale has been the emcee for the Austin Chamber of Commerce 100 Club for over 30 years. Emceeing this event was something that Dale looked forward to each year.

Dale asked that a special thank you be extended to all who worked with him and supported him over the years.

On Aug. 29, 1985, Dale and Martha Josephine Graff were married. Dale became a father to her three children, Amanda, Benjamin and Candace. Dale loved his wife, his children and his grandchildren. Nothing could replace the time he has spent with all of them. Dale's wife, Martha, has a very special place in his heart that even death won't take away.

Dale lived his faith and was very involved in and loved his church, Queen of Angels. He was a Parish Trustee, a lector, a Eucharistic minister, a greeter, a member of the Parish Council, on the cemetery board, on the Liturgy Committee, and along with Martha, Dale led many Bible Study groups and were Pre-Marriage Counselors for over 20 years.

He has donated his body to the Mayo Clinic for Medical Research and Training.

Dale's legacy is being carried on by his loving wife, Martha; daughters, Shelley Moene, Kimberly (Bruce) McConnell, Amanda (Miller) Gunderson, Candace Miller and her fianc/, Jeremy Hughes; son, Benjamin Miller; grandchildren, Elinore, John, Andrew, Austin, McKenzie, Cole, Ashton and Anna Jo; sisters, Karen (Mike) McCabe, Beverly (Bob) Fitzgerald, Linda McCarville; sisters and brothers-in-law, Margaret Graff, Mary Ford, Marilyn and David Benson, Tom and Mary Graff, Vern and Paula Graff, Jon and Kris Graff, and Eugene and Daisy Allen; as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins.

Dale was preceded in death by his wonderful son, Kris Kaderabek; full of life, mother, Artine Louisa (Louise) Kaderabek; father, Edward Kaderabek, maternal and paternal grandparents and aunts and uncles.

A memorial mass to celebrate Dale's life will be held at Queen of Angels on Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 11 a.m., lead by Father Dale Tupper. There will be visitation with the family starting one hour before the memorial mass. Visitation with the family will also be held Friday, May 16, from 4-7 p.m. at Queen of Angels Church. A rosary will be said at 5 p.m. by the Queen of Angels Rosary Council with a Wake Service at 6:30 p.m.

As Dale always said at the end of each event he emceed, "I'm Dale Kaderabek, please say a prayer for someone in need. God bless you and goodnight everybody."

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Kathleen Joan Wiechmann, age 75, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Thursday, May 8, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Kathleen was born Jan. 29, 1933 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, to Frank and Eleanor (Schindler) Greening. She graduated from Lourdes High School in Rochester. On June 5, 1954 she was united in marriage to Dennis Bruce Wiechmann. They moved to Austin in 1960.

Survivors include her children, Scott (Kathy) Wiechmann, Austin, Cindy (Mike) Holtorf, Austin, Terri (Gary) Schloo, Austin, Vicky Gerlach, Brownsdale, Kathy (Steve) Earl, Brownsdale, John (Kendra) Wiechmann, Waverly, Iowa, Tom (Tricia) Wiechmann, Austin; 20 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, Francis (Marie) Greening, Rochester.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Wiechmann on December 19, 2003; parents, Frank and Ella Greening; brother, John "Jack" Greening.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Sunday, May 11, 2008 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Friends may call from 10 a.m. until noon on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

The honorary casket bearers will be: Dan Wiechmann, Bruce Heimer, Joe H oltorf, Zach Wiechmann, and Rick Heimer. The casket bearers will be: Ryan Wiechmann, John Wiechmann, Brian Heimer, Bobby McKee, Brad Wiechmann, Nick Wiechmann.

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Daniel D. "Danny" Hegna, age 65, of Austin, mower county, Minnesota, died on May 7, 2008 at his home after a long battle with cancer.

Danny was born on December 23, 1942 in Hayfield, Minnesota, to Russell and Virginia (Blair) Hegna. He grew up in Sargeant, went to school in Sargeant and later in Hayfield. Danny married Kathy Wilcox. They had two sons, Ronald and Donald. They later divorced. He then married Ruth Titlus. They had three sons, Tracy, Warren and Todd. They later divorced. He then married Bonnie Christianson. They had one daughter, Dawn, plus two stepsons, Ronnie and Roger Christianson. They later divorced. Danny also has a son, Rann "Ty" Campbell.

Danny has had various jobs through the years including his own Trailer House business and he later bought Danny's Bar, which he owned until he was diagnosed with cancer.

Danny enjoyed his family, children, grandchildren, step-children and step-grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing, pool, riding his motorcycle, going out to eat, garage saling with one of his best friends Duane Huffman and helping everyone. He was always helping and thinking of others.

Survivors include Bonnie Hegna; three sons, Tracy (Ranae) Hegna, Austin, Warren (Jeanette) Hegna, Austin, Rann "Ty" (Julia) Campbell, Hawaii; daughter, Dawn Hegna, Austin; two step-sons, Ronnie (Laurie) Christianson, Austin, Roger Christianson, Wisconsin; four grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; three sisters, Nancy Wutschke, Dodge Center, Candis (Alfred) Vomacka, Austin, Debra Leeper, Austin; two brothers, Larry (Betty) Hegna, Austin, Monte Hegna, Austin; nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

He is preceded in death by three infant sons, Ronald, Donald and Todd; parents, Russell and Virginia; younger brother, Ricky.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2008 at Mayer Funeral Home with Pastor Todd Portinga officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service. Immediately following the service at Mayer Funeral Home, there will be a celebration of Danny's life at "Danny's Place" 613 10th Drive S.E.

Interment will be in Evanger Lutheran Church Cemetery in Sargeant at a later time.

The honorary casket bearers will be: Tracy Hegna, Ronnie Christianson, Warren Hegna, Roger Christianson, Rann "Ty"" Campbell, Dawn Hegna, Duane Huffman.

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Sandra "Sandie" Severson, age 59, of rural Waseca, died on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at her home following a courageous battle with liver cancer.

Sandra Sue Lillie was born in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, on April 28, 1949 to Willard H. and Gladys L. (Jarvis) Lillie.

Sandie was baptized, christened and confirmed at Faith Evangelical Brethren Church in Austin. She attended Woodson Elementary, Ellis Middle School, and Austin High School, graduating in 1967 with a GED diploma. She later received her real estate license through the State of Minnesota. Sandie loved to dance. She surrounded herself with music and singing. She loved being part of informal family bands, having enjoyed numerous country rock, marching and concert band members in her extended family.

At age 8, she actually wore holes in her shoes dancing across Lake Michigan and back on a family cruise. Her love of travel was fostered by her parents and the many family vacations, from Leech Lake fishing, across the country to every state except Hawaii.

She continued her travels with her husband Larry as an adult, showing him what her parents had shown her. Sandra enjoyed gymnastics, softball, bowling, swimming, tennis and won many awards both on teams and individually in Austin. Sandie moved to Waseca in 1978 when Larry was laid off during the Hormel strike, at which time he decided to take an early retirement. They came to Waseca and bought Mark's Roller Rink from Mr. Staples and renamed it Country Skate. The Seversons loved the business and all the children and teens they met there.

They had the unique adventure of meeting the young people of Waseca County before they got to know their parents.

They made life-long friendships from their skating transport bus route from Albert Lea-Owatonna-Waterville-Eagle Lake-Madison Lake-Elysian-Wells-Hartland-New Richland, and Waseca. After Larry's accident, the skating rink was sold and Sandie worked all over the community in numerous jobs and started many businesses of her own. Inventions to manufacture for retail sales, Hot Hotline Answering Service, Severson Mowing and Snow Removal, Photography by Sandie and BelleReeve Apartments were all created by the couple. The love of learning and new accomplishments compelled her to find something new once she had achieved and mastered each new interest.

If she heard about something she hadn't tried, she read and researched it until she found work in that area to satisfy her curiosity. Sandie drove railroad crews from DM&E, did school censuses, clerked at Wal-Mart, managed Mr. Movies, was a Pinkerton Security officer at Brown Printing, managed day work crews at Mishek Arabians, radio assembly at E.F. Johnson Co., inventory at Corchran Inc, and was a photojournalist at the Mankato Free Press. The children gravitated to her wherever she went and she loved them all. Real estate was where all her talents gelled. Sandie and Larry had many jobs as they did life in tandem. Always together as much as possible, they enjoyed a special bond of love and friendship, that nothing could break.

She is survived by her husband Larry Severson, Waseca; son, Scott (Kari) Severson and grandson Tyler, of Owatonna; daughter, Kelly (Tom) Weis, Hanover; stepdaughter Michelle (Mike) Wolfe and step-granddaughters Ava and Grace, Owatonna (formerly of Lakeville); mother, Gladys Lillie (Mrs. Willard Lillie), St. Mark's Lutheran Home in Austin; sister, Dana Lillie, Portland, Ore; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Wayne (Gladys) Haroldson, Windom Ron (Joanne) Haroldson, Grand Rapids, and Keith (Pat) Severson, Tower; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, May 12, 2008 at McRaith Funeral Home in Waseca. The Severson Family will greet friends on Monday from 10:30 a.m. until the hour of service, at the funeral home.

[Original obituary was posted on www.austindailyherald.com, May 10, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Leilah E. Miller, age 94, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 11, 2008 at St. Marks Lutheran Home, Austin, Minnesota.

Leilah Evelyn Harris was born May 12, 1914 in Morgan Township, Franklin County, Iowa to Raymond and Elsie (Kruse) Harris. Leilah graduated from the Sheffield, Iowa High School and was married to Henry Miller on Dec. 11, 1933 at Ackley, Iowa. They farmed in Hampton and Alexander, Iowa and Lyle, Minn., before retiring in 1966 and moving to Austin in 1972. For several years Leilah worked as a nurse's aid at the Burr Oak Manor Nursing Home in Austin. She was a member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church where she was active in the women's circles.

Leilah was an artist and over the years had done a number of paintings. She enjoyed doing a variety of needlework and liked to make things for her family. In recent years she learned how to operate a computer and developed her computer skills.

Leilah is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law: Russell (Joan) Miller, Albert Lea, Minn., Ronald (Maria) Miller, Albert Lea, Minn.; daughters and sons-in-law, Charlene (Robert) Abraham, Maple Grove, Minn., Joyce (Nyles) Pederson, Lyle, Minn.; 18 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Irma Rae Harris, Mason City, Iowa; sister-in-law, Judy Harris, Kensett, Iowa; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Henry in 1994; son, LeRoy; great-grandchildren, Bobby Abraham and Melissa Burns; brothers, Ralph and Vernon Harris.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 15, 2008 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Austin with The Reverend Bob Seifert officiating. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Wednesday from 7-8:30 p.m. and at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church on Thursday from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Casket Bearers will be Duane Abraham, Perry Bowers, Bryan Pederson, Andre Miller, Paul Rasmussen, Scott Miller. The organist will be Georgia Larkin.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, May 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Luanna Duenow, age 79, of Montgomery, Minnesota, died on May 10, 2008, after an 11-month battle with cancer.

Luanna Margaret Moen was born in Mason City, Iowa, to Walter and Lu Moen on October 8, 1928. She moved to St. Ansgar, Iowa, as a junior in high school. There, she married Merlyn Duenow, on Aug. 9, 1946. They were married for 61 years.

Luanna loved singing, and for the past several years has performed with the Velvetones of Apple Valley. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful, loving ways, her resiliency and her ability to tell a good joke.

She is survived by her husband; four children, Tom (Judy) Duenow, Mark (Cindy) Duenow, Susan (Kim) Schumann and Brad (Sheila) Duenow; daughter-in-law, Bonnie Duenow; 10 grandchildren, Jennifer, Martin, Amber, Nathan, Becky, Luke, Josh, Mandy, Julia and Dillon; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Bob; numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sister-in-laws and a host of family and friends.

She was preceded in death by two sons, Rob and Jeff; and a daughter; Cindy, her parents and brothers, Albert and Wayne.

Funeral Services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church in Montgomery, Minnesota, on Tuesday, May 13, 2008. Interment will be at St. Ansgar City Cemetery in St. Ansgar, Iowa. Arrangements are with Schoenbauer Funeral Home of Montgomery, Minn.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, May 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Hubert F. Swenson, age 78, of rural Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died May 10, 2008, at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He was born July 1, 1929 to Carl and Rose (Wencl) Swenson in Freeborn County, Minnesota. He graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1948 and entered the Armed Services in 1951. He served in Korea and was discharged in 1953. During his tour of service, he was wounded, which awarded him the Purple Heart.

On Oct. 12, 1957, Hubert married Ardell Ward at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church. They lived and actively farmed in Newry Township until he retired at the age of 62. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, the DAV and the Blooming Prairie Lions Club. He was a member of the Newry Township Board for 24 years. He belonged to the Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church where he served on the church council. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Ardell Swenson, rural Austin; daughter, Kathy (Chip) Applegath, Rochester; son, Robert Swenson, Kaukauna, Wis.; four grandchildren, Brett and Drew Applegath, Calvin and Sydney Swenson; three brothers, Joseph (Beverly) Swenson, Blooming Prairie, Allen (Nancy) Swenson, Brownsdale, Carl (Diane) Swenson, Blooming Prairie; sister, Rosemary "Toots" Dahl, Manly, Iowa; sister-in-law, Sylvia Swenson, Blooming Prairie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose and Carl Swenson; brother, Clayton Swenson; brother-in-law, Maynard Dahl.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church with The Reverend Myrwood Bagne officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment is at Blooming Prairie Cemetery with military honors by VFW Post 878 and American Legion Post 52. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, May 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Craig John Whitson, age 61, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 10, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center.

He was born on September 20, 1946 in Webster City, Iowa, to Robert and Maye Whitson. A member of the Moose Lodge, Craig also served as the groundskeeper at Austin Country Club. He spent the past 25 years with his significant other, Jacqueline Kottner.

He is survived by his children, Jonna (Richard) Lenamond, Forney, Texas, Joal (Robert) Crawford, Fruitvale, Texas; six grandchildren, Elisa, Dylan, Alissa, Gus, Danielle and Bailey; brothers, Bruce (Barb) Whiston, West Des Moines, Iowa, Mark (Pam) Whitson, Stratford, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Whitson.

Funeral services will be held on May 13 at 10 a.m. at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Pastor Koppel officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church. His body was donated to the Mayo Clinic.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, May 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Karon Lee Heuton, age 65, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on May 9, 2008, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmstead county, Minnesota. Karon was born July 11, 1942, in Austin, the daughter of Donald and Gertrude (Schoeneck) Rector. She was baptized on August 9, 1942, at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Austin and later confirmed there on May 29, 1955. Karon graduated from Austin High School in 1960 and continued her education, becoming a registered X-ray technician.

On June 23, 1962, she was joined in marriage to Richard (Dick) Heuton at St. Johns Lutheran Church. Karon and Dick resided in Austin, Mitchell, S.D., Plymouth, Minn., Clovis, Calif. and returned to Austin in the fall of 1983. Karon was always active in her church, her community, with friends and especially with her family. Water aerobics at the Austin YMCA was a favorite activity. Karon was a very loving wife, mother, grandmother.

Karon is survived by her husband, Dick Heuton, Austin; three daughters, Natalie (Mike) Lay, Clovis, Calif., Diana (Keith) Lind, Moorhead, Minn., Heather (Steve) Durham, Appleton, Wis.; five grandchildren, Devin and Samantha Lay, Clovis, Calif., Rebecca and Lydia Lind, Moorhead, Minn., and Megan Durham, Appleton, Wis.; mother, Gertrude Rector and mother-in-law, Margaret Heuton, both of Austin; many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents and father, Donald Rector.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at St. Johns Lutheran Church with the Reverend William Natzke officiating. Interment will follow the service at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13th at the Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, May 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb