Dolly Mae Dowd passed away unexpectedly on June 6, 2008 at her home in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. Even at the age of 92, she was young at heart and living independently.

Dolly Mae Owens was born April 12, 1916 in Butternut Valley, Minnesota, to Edward and Hattie (Davis) Owens. She grew up in the Lake Crystal area. After graduating from high school, she worked briefly in Rochester for a physician’s family before marrying Chester Michael Dowd on Nov. 10, 1937. Together, they raised two sons and four daughters on a family farm south of Austin. Early in their marriage, they were also co-owners of Dowd’s Square Deal Motors and a paint shop. After Chester died in 1968, Dolly worked as a Home Health Aide with Mower County and maintained the farm.

Dolly was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother; she always made family her top priority. She considered raising her six children to be her greatest of many accomplishments.

Dolly was a long-time, active member of Queen of Angels church and a devout Catholic who reached out to others. She liked volunteer work and especially enjoyed being a caller with the Mower County Senior Advocacy Program. She was also a member of the Mother Cabrini unit, Senior Citizen Center, Women’s Auxiliary of the Eagles and the Sterling Silver Club. She gave talks in area schools about her Welsh ancestry. Dolly was also known for her poetry and cake decorating talents. Other interests included keeping up with her grandchildren’s activities, gardening, feeding birds, sewing, making cards, ballroom dancing and painting. Dolly will long be remembered for her warmth, strong Christian faith, creativity, intelligence and sense of humor. Her loss will be deeply felt by all, but particularly by her family who loves her dearly.

Dolly is survived by her sons, Michael Dowd, Austin; Phillip (Cheryle) Dowd, Austin; daughters, Patricia (Larry) Kiel, Faribault; Teresa Dowd, Jackson; Mary Dowd, Mankato; 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; sister, Alvina (Elwood) Guanella, Alden; many nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Chester; daughter, Rose Ann (Dowd) Prizler; daughter-in-law, Shirlee (Michael) Dowd; great-grandson, Michael Dowd; two brothers and two sisters.

A funeral mass was celebrated at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery.

THe Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Dick Rasmussen, 61, of Rochester, died June 10, 2008 unexpectedly at his home.

Dick was born on April 2, 1947 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, to Johnny and Betty Jean (Blanchard) Rasmussen. He graduated from Grand Meadow High School in 1965. Dick was a lifetime business man. He was a member of Crosswinds Church in Rochester, the Grand Meadow Gun Club and the Rochester BNI. He was also an avid bicyclist.

Dick is survived by his mother, Betty Rasmussen, Grand Meadow; two sisters, Ann (Kenneth) Hoefs, Grand Meadow, and Kristine (Lawrence) Goplen, North St. Paul; brother, Robert (Janice) Rasmussen, Hayfield; four nieces, Sarah Rasmussen, Faith Rasmussen, Kimberly (Travis) Swarthout, and Melissa (Chip) Cuccio; seven nephews, John (Kari) Rasmussen, Daniel Rasmussen, Samuel Rasmussen, Aaron Rasmussen, Nathan (Patricia) Goplen, Nicholas (Angela) Goplen, and Nolan (Jennifer) Goplen; also by numerous aunts, uncles, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church in Grand Meadow with Pastor Doug Mathers of Crosswinds Church. Interment will be at the Grand Meadow Cemetery.

Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church in Grand Meadow. and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Steven Lewis Pyburn, 57, of Austin, died on June 6, 2008 at the Albert Lea Good Samaritan Center.

Steve was born February 18, 1951 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, to Roger and Kathleen (Thomas) Pyburn. In July 1972 he married Kathleen Johnston and then again in Dec. 1987. Steve worked as a Product Cost Analyst at Hormel Foods for 38 years.

Survivors include his daughter, Vanessa (Brian) Hamlin, Austin; grandchildren, Alexander and Harley; siblings, Susan (Randy) Jaroch, Milwaukee, Wis., Tony (Laura) Pyburn, Blooming Prairie, Debra (Ron) Nelson, Albert Lea.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen Pyburn on June 13, 1992; parents, Roger and Kathleen Pyburn.

A celebration of his life will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, June 14, 2008 at Mayer Funeral Home followed by a reception with lunch and refreshments at the Hormel Historic Home from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday evening. Memorials are preferred to the family.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Charles Hansen Swendiman, age 75, of rural Austin died at Austin Medical Center on June 8, 2008.

Charles was born on July 1, 1932, in Dodge Center, Minnesota, to Monroe and Emma (Hansen) Swendiman. He grew up in the Dexter area and graduated from Grand Meadow High School in 1950. Charles married Helen Marquardt on Sept. 3, 1961, at Grace Lutheran Church in Dodge Center. He spent most of his life farming in the Dexter and Brownsdale area. He was employed at the 76 Truckstop for many years and was last employed at Brownsdale meat service. He belonged to St. John’s Lutheran church in rural Sargeant and later Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin. He enjoyed many happy hours of playing on the farm with his nieces, nephews, daughters and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Swendiman, Austin; four daughters, Rebecca (Doug) Farrell, Austin, Sarah (Scott) Prunty, Lake St. Croix Beach, Nita (Davidjay) Bentley, Austin and Beth (Ron) Kalliokoski, Austin; eleven grandchildren, Amanda, Ben and Tim Farrell; Abrielle and Levi Prunty; Jacob, Caleb, Jordan and Eliana Bentley; Angela and Faith Kalliokoski; three sisters, Ruth Hovden, Minneapolis, Minn., Eileen (Lloyd) Knutson, Lake Geneva, Wis., Barbara (Robert) Anderson, East Lansing, Michigan; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law and other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, Monroe and 3 brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church with Rev. William Natzke, officiating. Interment followed the service in Greenwood Cemetery near Brownsdale, Minnesota.

The Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ervin Clarence Pettis, age 81, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on evening, June 8, 2008, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Ervin was born on August 19, 1926, the son of Ivan and Vada (Daniels) Pettis in Augusta, Wisconsin. Ervin served in the United States Army from 1944-1945. He was united in marriage to Evelyn Krulish on February 29, 1948, in Augusta, Wisconsin. Ervin worked at Hormel in Austin for 34 years as a butcher. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and farming.

Ervin is survived by his wife, Evelyn Pettis, Austin; three sons, Roger (Linda) Pettis, Zumbro Falls, Minn., LeRoy (Nancy) Pettis, Oakland, Minn., Rick (Ardi) Pettis, Rochester, Minn.; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; four brothers, Gerald (Clara) Pettis Augusta, Wis., Leland (Betty Ann) Pettis, Eau Clair, Wis., Ellis (Marcella) Pettis, Augusta, Ivan Jr. (Marcella) Pettis, Augusta; three sisters, Lorena (Leland) Ginpher, Augusta, Linda (Ed) Harmon, Austin, Virginia (Dean) Schwoch, Fall Creek, Wis.; and Harriet (Darold) Dehnke, Eau Clair, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.

Friends and family may call from 1-3 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Dr. Larry James Levy, Ph.D.., age 65, of Columbia, Maryland, died on April 21, 2008.

He was born on February 20, 1943 to Jimmie and Libbie Levy of rural Austin. He graduated in 1961 from Austin High School and attended The General Motors Institute in Flint, Mich., where he received his Bachelor’s Degree. He also attended Marguette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for his master’s degree. He received his doctorate degree in electrical engineering from Iowa State University.

Larry married Meridee LeBarron in Austin in 1963. Larry, his wife and daughter, Allison, moved to Columbia, Maryland, in 1971. He began his 37 year career with The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab., where he was highly respected as Chief Scientist of the Strategic Systems Department. He was a lecturer and graduate level teacher in his field of Kalman Filtering for Nevtech Seminars and Systems Identification at the Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering. He was CO-developer of the GPS translator concept in SATRACK, a GPS based missile tracking instrumentation system. We will miss his hearty, contagious laugh and his genuine caring for family, friends and young people. His home and heart were always open for those in need. Larry never forgot his Austin roots, and with a smile, proudly wore his SPAM clothing. He often spoke of how friends and all helped one another. You will forever be in our hearts.

Larry was an active leader in church youth groups, and most recently a strategic planner for a new church in Arbutus, Md., called Matt’s House.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 44 years; daughter, Allison (Pastor Robert) Benson; two grandchildren, Jesse and Faith; mother, Libbie Levy; sister Lyndel (Ken) Finholdt; nephews, Eric, Nate and Todd Finholdt and their families in the Owatonna area.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Jimmie; maternal grandparents, John and Mary Votava; paternal grandparents, Stanley and Josphine Levy.

Funeral services were held in Maryland. Memorials may be made to Matt’s House, Inc., in Elkridge, Md.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Sybil M. Wilson, 87, of Austin died on Saturday, June 7, 2008, at Our House Assisted Living in Austin.

She was born in Manchester, South Dakota, on March 11, 1921 to Victor and Avis (Standish) Waldron. Sybil graduated from Albert Lea High School and on July 6, 1941 married Raymond Wilson at the Methodist Church parsonage in Austin.

Sybil was a homemaker while Raymond worked for Hormel Foods. They liked to travel. Sybil volunteered at St. Olaf Hospital and was involved in many activities at First United Methodist Church and The Vineyard Christian Fellowship. Following Raymond’s retirement, they spent several winters in Arizona. Raymond passed away on Dec. 31, 2003.

Survivors include her son, Larry (Karen) Wilson, Austin; two daughters, Judith Ann Porter, Austin, Sandra Kay (Mitch) Earl, Bozeman, Mont.; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Jeannine (Dick) Buechner, Austin; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Victor and Avis Waldron; husband, Raymond; sister, Charlotte Larson; brothers, Victor Waldron and Rodney Waldron.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel, with pastor Wade R. Wilson officiating. Friends may call at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, and one hour before the service on Thursday. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery in Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 13, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Donna F. Schneider, age 62, of Winnebago, Minnesota, died on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at her home from cancer.

Donna was born on January 21, 1946, at Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, the daughter of Fred E. and Mildred O. (Himle) Alford. She was a graduate of Austin High School.

On February 15, 1969 she married Patrick M. Brady in Austin, Minnesota. Donna worked as an accountant in banking, including Americana in Medford and MinnStar in Mankato. In 1989 she graduated from Austin Community College. Pat preceded her in death in 1991. On September 24, 2002 she married David D. Schneider in Winnebago.

She is survived by her husband, David Schneider, Winnebago, Minnesota; by two sons, Patrick J.(Heather) Brady, Waseca, Minnesota, and Michael P. Brady, Northfield, Minnesota; by eight grandchildren; by a sister, Diane Lothson, White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and by a brother, David (Kristi) Alford, Austin, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 16, 2008, at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Winnebago, with Rev. Ronald Jobe officiating. Burial will be in Owatonna Memorial Gardens, Owatonna, Minnesota

The Spencer-Owen Funeral Home in Winnebago was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted June 14, 2008 on www.austindailyherald.com -- The Austin Daily Herald]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

James A. Thalberg, age 60, of Adams, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Saturday, June 14, 2008, at Austin Medical Center.

He was born on September 18, 1947 in Montevideo, Minnesota, to Lester and Judith (Michaelson) Thalberg. Jim graduated from the Dassel High School and from St Cloud State University and received his master’s degree from St. Mary's University. He served in the Army and was married to Nancy L. Gabrielson on June 22, 1968 at Dassel, Minnesota.

They moved to Adams, where Jim has been the administrator of the Adams Health care Center for the past 30 years. He loved doing things with his boys. Jim was an active member of the Little Cedar Lutheran Church and had served as president and also on the church council. He also served in the board of the Cedar River Country Club and was active with the Minnesota Health and Housing Association, Lions and the American Legion. He also enjoyed reading and having coffee with his friends.

James is survived by his wife, Nancy Louise Thalberg, Adams; by his sons, Jon Thalberg, Adams, and Jeffrey Thalberg, Farmington, Minnesota; by his brother, Michael (Twila) Thalberg, Spicer, Minnesota; by a twin sister, Susan (Doug) Rising, Andover, Minnesota; by a sister, Mary Thalberg, Willmar, Minnesota; by a brother-in-law, Richard (Deb) Gabrielson, Darwin, Minnesota; and by a sister-in-law, JoAnne Gabrielson, Litchfield, Minnesota.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and by a brother-in-law Gary Gabrielson.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 18, 2008, at Little Cedar Lutheran Church with The Reverend Shari Mason officiating. Interment was in the Little Cedar Lutheran Cemetery in Adams with Adams Post #146 American Legion in charge of military rites. The organist was Pat Hinz. The Adams Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted June 16, 2008 on www.austindailyherald.com -- The Austin Daily Herald]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Franklyn Edward King, 90, passed away on June 14, 2008.

He was born to Arthur and Abbie King on Nov. 22, 1917, in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. Franklyn and Loretta King were wed on March 25, 1939. They had one son, Darwyn Edward King, presently living in Ocala, Florida, with his wife, Jerry Rae King. Franklyn and Loretta enjoyed square dancing, riding motorcycles, boating, and traveling in their trailers. Franklyn was a member of the Austin Ham Radio Club, the Masonic Lodge, the Shrine, and the Knights Templar, the Oriental Band, and the First United Methodist Church. He and Danny Wiseman had an upholstery business and Franklyn did woodworking.

He suffered a stroke on February 7, 2006 and spent 5 months at St. Mark's Lutheran Home, then spent 15 months in Ocala, Florida, with his son and daughter in law. Last October, he and Loretta retuned to their Austin home at 306 2nd Avenue SW for only a week, then Franklyn was admitted to the Austin Medical Clinic with pneumonia on October 19, 2007, then admitted to St. Mark's on October 24, where he died 8 months later.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta; by his son, Darwyn; by a daughter in law, Jerry Rae; by four grandchildren: James Edward King, Hermantown, Minnesota, Dr. Nicole Trajano, Hillsboro, Oregon, Staff Sergeant Stephen King, Clarksville, Tennessee, Zdanna King, New Orleans, Louisiana; by four great-grandchildren: Michael and Matthew King, Austin, Elena and Leonardo Trajano, Hillsboro, Oregon; by a sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Keller, Austin.

Franklyn was preceded in death by his parents.

Franklyn's funeral will be on June 19, at 1:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church with Reverend Patricia Toschak officiating, a reception to follow in the Wesleyan Hall. The Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on June 18, from 6 - 8 p.m. and for one hour before the service at the church. Interment will follow within a week at the Oakwood Cemetery for the family.

His granddaughter Nicole practices medicine in Hillsboro, Ore., his grandson Stephen has served in Iraq three times with the Army and his granddaughter Zdanna is enrolled in the PhD program at Tulane University in physical anthropology.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 17, 2008 -- Austin Daily Herald]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ruby Barclay, age 94, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on June 18, 2008 at Our House Memory Care.

Ruby Isabel Wilson was born on December 6, 1913 in Austin, to James and Nellie (Boyd) Wilson. Ruby married Milo Barclay on February 24, 1951 in Mason City, Iowa -- they were married for 51 years.   Ruby worked as a bookkeeper at Ashton Service and Harrington Trucking, as a waitress and cook at Henry's Cafe, and most importantly as a Homemaker, raising six children.   In her spare time Ruby enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren and grand dogs, fishing and camping.

Ruby is survived by her daughter, Debra (Philip) Eirikson, Austin; by three sons, James (Pam) Houck, Sand Rock, Alabama, Arnold (Barb) Houck, Juniata, Nebraska, and Gary (Janet) Zander, Lake City, Minnesota; by 16 grandchildren; by 35 great-grandchildren; by numerous great-great-grandchildren; by a brother, Wilbur (Mary) Wilson, Owatonna, Minnesota; and by a sister, Viola Miller, Rochester, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Milo; by daughters, Hazel Mae Stundahl and Chick Roseth; by her parents, and by brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at Crane Community Chapel with Pastor Mark Goossen officiating.   Interment will be in the Grandview Cemetery south of Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 19, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

John H. Hill, 81, of Adams, Minnesota, died on June 18, 2008 at his home.

John was born on February 26, 1927 in Alexander, Iowa, the son of John and Alta (Yaw) Hill. He attended and graduated from the Alexander High School and went to Iowa State University, shortly there after he entered the Navy and was stationed at San Pedro, Calif.

On October 15, 1948 he married Gloria Mae Ehlo at the Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams. They lived in Austin, Minn. For two years and then moved to the family farm in Adams in 1950, where he resided until his death. John was the Grand Marshall in the 2007 June Dairy Days parade in Adams. He served on the DHIA board, Marshall Township board, Mower County Planning and Zoning Commission and the A.D.A. board. He was also a 4-H leader.

John also had a top dairy herd in Mower County. He loved working on his farm with the dairy herd and crop farming. He loved to show cattle, fish, and hunt, do wood-working, riding horses, riding mules and driving mules and his dogs.

John is survived by his wife: Gloria Mae Hill, Adams, Minnesota; children: John Douglas (Deb) Hill, Claremont, Minnesota, Barbara (Lowell) Franzen, Lyle, Minnesota, David (Vickie) Hill, Waseca, Minnesota, Marjorie (Kevin) Bartholmey, Adams, Duane (Missie) Hill, Adams; 20 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Alta Hill, one sister, a brother-in-law, a sister-in-law, two grandchildren and one great grandchild.

A private family service will be held at the Adams Funeral Home with Pastor Shari Mason officiating. Memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 23, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Marvin “Bud” Foster, 73, died at his home in Brownsdale on Wednesday, June 18, 2008.

He was born on Feb. 26, 1935, the son of Daniel and Vera (Rhodes) Foster in Beatrice, Neb. The family moved to Brownsdale when Bud was five. He graduated from Austin High School. Bud was united in marriage to Ida Farrell in Brownsdale on June 16, 1956. He worked as a carpenter with Ralph Grant and in 1966, he started Foster and Lowe Construction and later it became Foster Construction. Bud was mayor of Brownsdale for 37 years and was a member of the Untied Methodist Church in Brownsdale.

Bud is survived by his wife, Ida Foster, Brownsdale, Minnesota; two daughters, Tammy Marsolek, Owatonna, Minnesota, Kari Adams, Austin, Minnesota; two sons, Terry Foster, Franklin, Tennessee; Jeff (Holly) Foster, Brownsdale; eight grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister.

A visitation was held on Friday, June 20, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Brownsdale and before the service at the church on Saturday. The funeral service for Marvin “Bud” V. Foster was held on Saturday, June 21, 2008, at the United Methodist Church in Brownsdale with Reverend Jon Schultz and Reverend Jerry Harris co-officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 23, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Beau R. Zabel, age 23, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and formerly of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died in Philadelphia on June 15, 2008.

He was born September 24, 1984 to Douglas Kammeier and Lana Zamora in Austin, where he grew up. Beau attained the rank of Eagle Scout, the honor of vigil as an Order of the Arrow member. He belonged to the National Honor Society and graduated with honors from Austin High School in 2003. In 2007 he graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Accepted into the Philadelphia Teaching Fellows, he was currently living in Philadelphia and scheduled to teach high school math in the fall. He was a proud employee of Starbuck’s Corporation.

Survivors include his mother, Lana (Daniel) Zamora, Austin; father, Douglas Kammeier, Iowa City, Iowa; stepfather, Terry Zabel, Chaska; sister, Brook (Samantha) True, Northwood, Iowa; brother, Brice Zabel, Austin; grandparents, Marjorie (Ronald) Halverson, Austin, Jerry Zabel of Wells; aunts and uncles, Sandy (Mark McCulloch) Chaby, Brownstown, Penn.; Dennis (Karen) Hollerud, Austin; Osa (Joseph) Brown, Raleigh, N.C.; Cindy Seavey, Burnsville; John (Dee) Hollerud, Coon Rapids; nephews, cousins, many other relatives and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Norman Hollerud and Jeannine Zabel; cousin, Zachary Chaby.

Friends and family were invited to attend a Celebration of Beau’s life at 10 a.m., on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin.

[original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 23, 2008]

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Posted on www.philly.com -- Fri, Jun. 20, 2008

To be great, Phila. must be safe Beau Zabel came to help. His killing should inspire outrage. Kathleen O'Hara is a board member for Witness Justice I hung my head in shame when I read about the killing of young Beau Zabel, who came to our City of Brotherly Love to teach our children. He chose that because he wanted to serve; he wanted to give his life to our children. He did give his life to one of our children. Only this child grew up to be a killer. We have too many of these children in our city, at risk for the worst possible outcomes. We should not brag that our murder rate is "down;" it is still among the highest in the nation. And our illiteracy, poor education and poverty - all predictors of crime - are too high. We can build all the office towers and fancy condos we want, but Philadelphia will never be the "next great city" if we do not make it safe. No one will come. The message we send is: "Come here at your own risk. We cannot guarantee you even the most fundamental rights of our Constitution, written in our own fair city." Those rights are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We cannot allow the most basic right, life, to be taken away by people who have no respect for it. There are no excuses, no bad childhoods, no troubled pasts that justify such acts. Our organization, Witness Justice, fights throughout the nation to bring the rights of victims to the forefront. All too often, the victim is forgotten and the perpetrator goes on with his or her life, and we hear the justifications for why the killing took place. The family of Beau Zabel came to town to fly a dead son back home. What can we say to them? Where is the justice for them, and for everyone else who has lost a loved one to violence in this city? But most of all, where is the outrage of our citizens? Don't just hang your head in shame; raise your fist in anger and outrage. Shake the foundation of City Hall with your demand for a safe city. We cannot allow even one murder. We must not send the message: "Don't come to our city with your hopes and dreams." Beau Zabel came, and his life ended on the cold sidewalk, apparently because someone wanted his iPod. He came to serve; please don't forget him. Remember him and all the victims. Make him the symbol of everything our city could be, a mecca for young people to come and bring their talents and make a home - but also a symbol of what we need to fix, now.

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Following was posted on www.philly.com -- Wed, Jun. 18, 2008

New police video may show gunman in S. Phila. slaying By Barbara Boyer Inquirer Staff Writer Authorities yesterday released an enhanced video that may show the gunman leaving the area where 23-year-old Beau Zabel, an aspiring teacher from Minnesota, was killed in South Philadelphia. JUSTIN MAXON / Associated Press A memorial to aspiring teacher Beau Zabel, who was shot dead, apparently for his iPod, while on his way home from work. He came to Philadelphia from Minnesota to teach math. Homicide detectives hope the video - which can be viewed at www.philly.com - will help them identify the man seen concealing an object in his waistband near the 800 block of Ellsworth Street, where Zabel was shot in the neck early Sunday morning. "He's someone that we absolutely would like to identify, bring him in, and talk to him," said Homicide Capt. James Clark. Zabel, who left Minnesota about six weeks ago to teach math in the city while he earning a teaching certificate at Drexel University, was robbed and slain about 1:30 a.m. Sunday. His iPod was stolen from his front left pocket. Detectives studied surveillance tapes from South Philadelphia businesses near the scene and surrounding areas and have video recordings from two businesses that show a "person of interest," Clark said. "He's mulling around a half-block from where the homicide happened," Clark said. "A couple minutes right after the fact, he puts an object down . . . he walks away, he comes back, takes the object and puts it back into his pants, and then he takes off." The shooting happened outside the range of the cameras. Police described the man they seek as black, 5-foot-10 to 6 feet tall, with a medium build. He was wearing dark jeans, a white T-shirt, and white sneakers. The man is seen on Alter Street, which runs parallel to Ellsworth. Police initially believed he placed an object in the wheel well of a parked vehicle, but after taking a closer look, he is seen placing it in a flower pot. Within a short time, he returns, retrieves the object, lifts his shirt, and places the object in his waistband as he casually walks north on Eighth Street, turns onto Washington Avenue, and goes out of the camera's range. The grainy images show no clear picture of the man's face or anything that stands out on the clothing. Authorities said they believed the images captured in the enhanced video all happened after the shooting. Another video has images that are harder to discern but also show what police said is the same man before the shooting. Zabel, who had a temporary job at Starbucks at Fourth and South Streets, had just finished his shift and was walking to his apartment in the 900 block of Ellsworth. Relatives have said Zabel entered the Philadelphia Teaching Fellows program because it would allow him to teach in city public schools while getting his certification. Zabel was the second of three children and an Eagle Scout who grew up in the small city of Austin, just north of the Iowa border. He graduated in 2007 from Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill. Zabel's relatives arrived Monday in Philadelphia to collect his belongings and arranged for his remains to be cremated. Lana Zamora, Zabel's mother, said yesterday she would take the ashes to Minnesota, where services will be held. Visitation is scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Worlein Funeral Home, 1801 Fourth St. N.W., Austin, Minn. A private funeral service is scheduled for Saturday in Austin. Contact staff writer Barbara Boyer at 215-854-2641 or bboyer@phillynews.com. Inquirer staff writer Andrew Maykuth contributed to this article.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Earl A. Martell, age 81, of Goodland, Kansas, died on June 2, 2008 in Hays, Kansas.

He was born on April 25, 1927 in Crookston, Minnesota; and when his father found employment at the Hormel company in Austin the family moved to Austin. Earl went to school in Austin and finished his education. He went to work at Hormel, and in 1944 he enlisted in the Navy for four years.

He attended Austin Junior College and then went to Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, graduating in 1964. Earl served congregations in Minnesota, Colorado and Kansas before retiring in 1989.

In his retirement years he enjoyed camping, fishing and pheasant hinting.

Survivors include his wife, Clarice; a daughter, Judy (les) Sorenson; four sons, Edward (Julie), Rick (Carolyn), Arthur (Marilyn) and the Rev. Luther (Laurie) Marell; two brothers, LeRoy and Floyd; 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on June 10, 2008 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland, Kansas.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Arleen Lucille Peterson, age 84, of Belgrade, Montana, and formerly of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died at Bozeman-Deaconess Hospital in Bozeman, Mont., on June 17, 2008.

She was born May 31, 1924 to Theodore and Mildred (Hobson) Hagen in Dexter Township, Minn. She attended schools in the Dexter/Elkton area. She married Donald Peterson in 1952 in Austin where they made their home and were blessed with a son. They were later divorced. Arleen was an employee of Hormel Foods Corp. for over 40 years. A member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, she liked to garden and enjoyed spending time with her grandsons. She moved to Montana in 2003 to be near her son.

Survivors include one son, Michael (Kathy) Peterson, Belgrade; two grandchildren, Justin (Rebecca) Peterson, Austin; Matthew (Angela) Peterson, Washington, D.C.; and three great-grandchildren, Micah, Kylie, and Amara; sister, Donna Snyder, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred and Theodore Hagen and a brother, Ray Hagen.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 28, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with the Reverend Ron Barnett officiating. Visitation is from 4 - 7 p.m., Friday, June 27, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Grant Milton Tuttle, 87, of Austin, died at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home Monday evening, June 23, 2008. He was born Aug. 19, 1920 to Willie J.M. and Marian (Hare) Tuttle in Riceville, Iowa where he grew up and attended Cresco, Iowa schools. Grant entered the Army during World War II. His duty stations included Hawaii and Guam and attained the rank of Corporal. After the War, he moved to Minnesota to work at Geo A. Hormel & Company in Austin where he married Helen J. Brandvold on July 8, 1961. He enjoyed CB radios, attending auction sales, doing woodworking and riding motorcycles. After his retirement in 1982, he spent time at the Senior Citizen Center, playing cards, including Cribbage and shooting pool. A member of First Congregational Church (UCC) and VFW Post 1216, Grant also liked to travel.

Survivors include his son, Cary (Susan) Tuttle, Austin; two daughters, Laura Green (Robby Sanders), Munford, Ala.; Gwen Morse, Austin; nine grandchildren, Kristy, Joseph, Dominick (Sabrina), Conrad, Amanda, Tina, Rachel, Brandi and Madison; five great-grandchildren, Alexander, Chloe, Colton, JaQuan, Jazmin; sister, Faye Horseman, Waterloo, Iowa; brother, Kenneth Tuttle, Forest City, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen on Sept. 4, 2005; his parents, Marian and Willie; siblings, Henry Tuttle, Ila Valdez, Faith Schmidt and Keith Tuttle.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 28, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home with the Reverend Shari Mason officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery in Austin with military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Wilford Gordon “Bud” Paulson, 83, died on June 20, 2008, at his home in Blooming Prairie. He was born Aug. 19, 1924 to William and Mathilda (Jensen) Paulson on the family farm near Blooming Prairie where he grew up. He attended schools in Blooming Prairie and farmed with his dad until 1945 and then alone since 1947.

A member of Grace Baptist Church in Austin, Bud enjoyed reading, gardening, word find puzzles and jigsaw puzzles, some of which he mounted. He spent 24 winters in Texas and moved into Prairie Villa in the spring of 2002.

Survivors include his sister: Joyce Staples, Greenville, S.C.; several nieces and nephews, including Mary Ann (Everett) Hansen, Austin, Minn., Charles (Shirley) Lightly, Austin, Lu (David) Lyle, Oakland, Kenneth (Cathy) Lightly, Blooming Prairie, Minn., Beth (Warren) French, Greenville, Nancy Anderson, West Chester, Ohio; Gary (Diane) Staples, New Berlin, Wis.; several great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mathilda and William; sister, Victoria and two brothers-in-law.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 25, 2008, at Grace Baptist Church in Austin with The Rev. Gordon Larson and The Reverend Jim Leonard co-officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Wednesday at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home. Interment is at Blooming Prairie Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Grace Baptist Church in Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Max Joseph Grimley, age 85, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on June 21, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota.

Max was born on October 11, 1922 in Winona, Minnesota, to Edwin and Sarah Grimley of Fountain, Minnesota. They moved to Austin in 1933. He attended Columbus School and St. Augustine High School. In 1940 he was drafted into the Army and served in England, France, Germany and Africa until 1945. Upon his return to Austin, he worked as a clerk in the loin cooler for the George A. Hormel Company for 43 years. Max also owned a bar on Austin’s east side.

On December 6, 1943 he was united in marriage to June Marie Wiseman at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. Max loved spending time with family and friends, camping, telling stories, taking care of his farm and spending time with his friends at Countryside Auto.

Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, June Marie Grimley, Austin; brothers, Rex Grimley, Austin, Jerry (Margaret Ann) Grimley, Austin; sisters, Beverly (Eugene) Dushek, Cedar Falls, Iowa, Joan (John) O’Rourke, Austin; special family, nieces and nephews, Cheri (Ron) Brady and Max, Elk River, Sue (Ron) Stowell, Denver, Colo., Carol Connor, Austin, Mary (Bob) Boysen, Thornton, Colo., Lori (Roger) Morgan, Winona, Bud and Niki Johnson, Austin.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Sarah Grimley; brothers, Don, Duane and Robert Grimley.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. There will be a 7 p.m. wake service on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4-8 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Military rites will be by American Legion Post #91. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

The honorary casket bearers will be Rex Grimley, Snooley Johnson, Dick “Toad” Doty, Matt Brooks and John Krull. The casket bearers will be Ron Brady, Max Brady, Ronny Stowell, Bud Johnson, Mick Brooks and Jerry Grimley.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

(Obituary)

Dennis Lee Maschka, 62, of Austin, Minn., died on June 22, 2008 at Saint Marys Hospital of complications from colon surgery, surrounded by his loving family.

Denny was born July 12, 1945 in Wabasha, Minnesota, to LeRoy and Margaret (McDonough) Maschka. When Denny was in seventh grade his family moved to Austin where he attended Queen of Angels School and graduated from Pacelli High School in 1963.

On August 1, 1970 he was married to Linda Becchetti in Hibbing, Minnesota. They moved to Mapleton, Minnesota, where Denny finished his Bachelor of Science at Mankato State University in 1972. Thereafter, Denny became the first Community Education Director in Litchfield until 1975 when he moved to Austin to become the Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry. In 1978 he earned his Masters Degree in Continuing Education and Leisure Services from Mankato State University. In 1992 he assumed the position of Executive Director and has remained there since.

As a proud American he served his country in the National Guard for 20 years retiring with full honors. Denny has been involved in many activities in Austin and throughout Minnesota. He is currently chairman of Spruce Up Austin, he is a Past President of Austin Rotary Club and Southern Minnesota Parks and Recreation Association.

He is a member of the Minnesota Parks and Recreation Association and the Minnesota Ice Arena Managers Association. He is one of the founding members of the Austin Exchange Club. He is a Past President of the Austin Jaycees and was a candidate for Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans. He was a member of Toastmasters Club and is currently a trustee for the Austin Elks Lodge. He was a candidate at the Blandin Foundation Leadership Training Program. He twice chaired Freedom Fest USA in Austin. He was a member of The Main Street Project and has been working on the George A. Hormel Plaza Committee. Denny was a volunteer at the Paramount Theatre. He has been a longtime advocate for youth sports including his involvement with Austin Youth Football, coaching Austin Youth Basketball and refereeing Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa High School Football.

He is a member of Queen of Angels Church where he served on the Parish Council and has been a board member for Austin Catholic Religious Education. He has also served as a member and chairman of the Austin Area Catholic Schools.

Denny is survived by his loving wife, Linda Maschka, Austin, Minn.; son: Brian, New York City, N.Y.; daughter: Megan (Nicholas) Crouch, Austin, Minn.; three grandchildren: Jakob, Shane and Kathryn Crouch, Austin; mother: Margaret Knutson, Roseville, Minn.; brothers: Gerald (Kathleen) Maschka, Mankato, Minn.; Dean (Karen) Maschka, Roseville, Minn.; Stephen (Cindy) Maschka, Austin, Minn.; Robert (Glenn Ernst) Maschka, Little Canada, Minn.; sister: Beverly (Jack) Bell, Chanhassen; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by father LeRoy Maschka, stepfather George Knutson, in-laws Helen and Stephen Becchetti.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 27, 2008 at Riverside Arena with Father Tom McDonough, Father Paul Nelson, Father Dale Tupper and Father Joe Fogal officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at St. Augustine Catholic Church and one hour before the service at the arena on Friday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91.

The honorary casket bearers will be Tom Stiehm, Dan Wilson, Paul Phillip, Craig Hoium, Jim Hurm, Jon Erichson, John Garry, Patricia Wiechmann, Ann Hokanson, David Hoversten.

The casket bearers will be Jason Maschka, Pete Heldt, Wayne Dankert, Jim Lickteig, Tom Graff, Larry Dolphin, Roy Southerland, Perry Coonce.

Denny always had a strong commitment to service to his community and his family. He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. He cherished the time that he shared with his precious grandchildren and spent as much time as he could with them. He loved people and was always willing to come to the aide of those in need. He will be missed by all and his gentle and kind spirit will not be forgotten.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, June 25, 2008]

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#2:

Head of park and rec dies
Maschka praised for 'can-do' attitude

By Lee Bonorden (Contact) | Austin Daily Herald

Published Monday, June 23, 2008

The entire city of Austin is mourning the loss of Dennis L. Maschka, who died Sunday afternoon.

“He was a part of my life” … “He was a man of vision”… “He helped plant over 2,400 trees” … “He was a ‘can-do’ man,” co-workers and close associates say. Maschka, 62, died shortly before 1 p.m. Sunday of complications endured after surgery two weeks ago. He was surrounded by his family at the time of death. Maschka was the hard-working and always positive-thinking executive director of the Austin Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department.

He joined the department in 1975 and replaced Bob Auer as the department’s director in 1992. “He was awesome,” said Kim Underwood, the department’s secretary and office manager. “We worked together for 26 years. He was like family. “He will be missed by all of us,” Underwood said.

Darlene Thaisen, chairperson of the city’s park board, praised Maschka as a man of vision. “I felt Denny was a man of vision for the city,” said Thaisen. “So much of what the city has is because of him.” Thaisen went on to list some of the things Maschka helped bring to fruition in the city. “His work with Spruce Up Austin, the Tree City USA awards, the basketball courts at Rotary Centennial Park, moving the baseball diamonds to Riverland Community College, soccer fields, you name it and Denny has a part in those projects as well as maintaining the city’s park system,” Thaisen said.

According to Thaisen, Maschka was spearheading the creation of Hormel Plaza, a new park recognition of Geo. A. Hormel, the founder of Hormel Foods Corporation. “He wanted the Veterans Pavilion and Austin Community Bandshell Park to be the anchor of a central park for the city, but didn’t live to see that happen,” she said. Maschka’s work with SUA, Inc. was an integral part of the organization’s success: SUA, Inc. planted trees in public places as part of its community betterment agenda. At the time of his deal, Melanie Faust was vice president of the board of directors.

In a statement on behalf of the SUA, Inc. board of directors, Faust expressed the organization’s grief at his passing: “Denny Maschka, president of Spruce Up Austin (SUA) has been a dedicated member of SUA for 18 years. During this time, Denny and his fellow members planted 2,400 trees in our community. Denny Maschka has helped make our community a beautiful place to live; he will be greatly missed.”

Lastly, Jim Hurm, Austin’s city administrator, issued a statement on behalf of the city: “We at the City are saddened with the passing of Denny Maschka. Denny has been the central figure in the growth of our parks and recreation functions … What a legacy he leaves. But beyond his value to the City, Denny was very active in community affairs. He was seen just about any place help was needed in the community. He was a ‘can do’ person who will be dearly missed. Our thoughts are with Linda and his family.”

Funeral arrangements are pending with Mayer Funeral Home of Austin.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Kathryn Ada Bunn, age 91, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

Kathryn was born on September 5, 1916 in Kent, Iowa to John and Ada (Daniels) Bunn. She graduated from the Ellendale High School and attended the Minnesota Teachers College at Mankato and Mankato State College.

Kathryn began her teaching career in rural Steele County for eight years. She then taught in Blooming Prairie, Minn. for five years before starting in the Austin Public Schools where she completed her 43 years in the teaching profession.

Kathryn was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Austin, the Retired Teachers Association of Austin and Phi Delta Kappa. She had traveled the world extensively in retirement having visited all 50 states and many destinations around the world including the Holy Land and Australia. Never having had children, she had a motherly influence on her nieces, nephews and former students.

Kathryn is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Merrill and Berniece Bunn, Ellendale, Minnesota; by nephews and nieces: Steven Bunn and Dawn LaForte, Hayward, Wisc.; Julie and Dean Hunt, Owatonna, Minn., Deb Bunn, Owatonna, Minn.; David and Jennie Bunn, Cottage Grove, Minn.; by a great niece, Payton Bunn; by four great-nephews: Parker Bunn, John Bunn, Jacob (Nicole) Hunt and Nathan Hunt.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services were held on Monday, June 30, 2008, at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Patricia Toschak and the Rev. Dennis Tamke Officiating. Interment was in the St. Peter’s Cemetery in New Richland, Minn. The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Marvin Erick Wobschall, age 82, died at his home in Austin on June 25, 2008.

He was born on May 30, 1926 to Erick and Clara (Rieck) Wobschall in Waseca, Minnesota. He attended country school in Ellendale through eighth grade. He moved to Austin in 1947. He joined the Army Air Corps in June of 1944 and was discharged in December, 1944. He re-enlisted on February 9, 1946 at Fort Snelling. He was honorably discharged on Jan. 10, 1947 at Mitchell Camp.

He married Joyce Olson on December 9, 1950 in Austin where they made their home and raised seven children. Marvin drove truck for Murphy Motor Freight for 31 years. He worked at the Lickteig farm for more than ten years. A member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, American Legion and the VFW, he enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, spending time with the grandchildren and driving tractor on the farm.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Wobschall, Austin; two daughters, Marsha (Thomas) Downey, Austin, Judy (Patrick) Condon, Rapid City, S.D.; five sons, Larry (Pat) Wobschall, Austin, Randy (Anne) Wobschall, Grand Meadow; Tom (Sharon) Wobschall, Austin; John (Kris) Wobschall, Austin, Mark (Tammy) Wobschall, Central City, Neb.; 24 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Wallace (Margie) Wobschall, Austin; four sisters, Stella Kujath, North Branch, Gladys Weed, Hinsdale, Mont., Mae Hightshoe, Austin, Ellis Reese, Ellendale.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Ervin, Wilbert, Noel, Selmer; and one sister, Melinda.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, June 28, 2008, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Reverend Ron Barnett officiating. Military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

John Van House, age 78, died at his home in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, on June 25, 2008. He was born on April 27, 1930, the son of Archie and Effie (Jorgenson) Van House. He graduated from Austin High School in 1948.

John was united in marriage to Doris Lukes on February 23, 1957. He worked as a custodian with the Austin High School District for 40 years and was a member of the IATSE and worked on many stage productions, such as the Travel Adventure Series and Miss Minnesota Pageant. After his retirement in 1997, john enjoyed his work as a volunteer grandpa with local children and time with his beloved pets.

John is survived by his wife, Doris Van House, Austin; three sons: Paul (Janic) Van House, Atlanta, Georgia; Mark Van House and Kara Johnston, Toronto, Canada, Wade Van House and Michelle Trombetta, Minnetonka, Minnesota; grandchildren, Mandy Cheatham and Bryce Artukovich; great-grandchildren, Dylan and Caleb Cain.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by two children, Gary and Lisa; and by one great-grandchild, Joshua.

John’s son, the Reverend Mark Van House, officiated at a private family service on Saturday, June 28, 2008. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the American Diabetes Association.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Delores "Lolly" A. Gwin, age 69, of Moose Lake, Minnesota, died on June 24, 2008 at St. Mary's Hospital, Duluth, Minnesota.

Delores lived in Moose Lake for the past six years, having living previously in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. Lolly touched many lives and is loved by all she met.

Delores is survived by her former husband, Eugene Gwin; by six children: Cheryl Fitzgerald, Moose Lake, Minn., Craig (Mona) Gwin, Brownsdale, Minn., Robert Gwin, Brownsdale, Nancy (Eric) Oquist, Moose Lake, Lisa (Gordon Eaton) Gwin, Willow River, and Dawn Hagland, Moose Lake; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; by two brothers, Leslie Jensen, Austin, Donald (Carol) Jensen, Kiester, Minn.; and by two sisters, Dorty Underland, Rochester, Minn., and Sally Anderson, Hayward, Minnesota.

Delores was preceded in death by her father and mother, Walter and Anna Jensen; by a great-grandson, Teagon Tuttle; by five brothers: Jeff, Mutt, Sylvester, Alton, & Richard Jensen; and by two sisters, Gerald Jerdette, and Elaine Anderson.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, June 29, 2008, at Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church near Austin. Visitation was held one hour before the service, and a reception followed the service. Services were entrusted to the Cremation Society of Minnesota.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

 

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS GILBERT N. WINKELS     Private First Class Gilbert N. Winkels, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Winkels was born July 19, 1923 at the farm home west of McIntire, Iowa.     He attended the Mitchell County rural schools and completed his grade school work in 1936.     He was a devout Catholic, assisting the Priest as Mass server up to the time of his death.     Pfc. Gilbert N. Winkels was inducted at Des Moines, Iowa, March 20, 1943 being sent to Camp Butner, North Carolina and from there to Camp Piokett, Virginia.     He was sent overseas in May 1944 and was based in England.     His parents first received word that he was missing in action over Poland. Then a correction was made to this statement that the action took place over Holland October 1, 1944. Still another telegram came November 16th stating he was killed in action over Holland. At the time of his death he was serving with the 82nd Airborne division.     He was engaged in farming with his father until he entered service in March 1943.     To his many friends who knew him Gilbert was a true and helpful friend.     Gilbert received two Silver Battle Stars and two Overseas Service Bars.     He leaves to mourn his passing his mother and father, one brother, and three sisters.     Requiem Mass was held at ten o'clock Monday morning in St. Patrick's Church with Father Thomas Duane officiating. Mrs. Leo Regan, Joseph Regan and Mrs. Polinski of Plainview sang with Mrs. W.H. Hall as their accompanist at the organ.     Interment was made in the local Church cemetery. PRAYER   O gentlest Heart of Jesus, ever present in the Blessed Sacrament, ever consumed with burning love for the poor captive soul of Thy departed servant. Be not severe in Thy judgement, but let some drops of Thy precious Blood fall upon the devouring flames, and do Thou, O merciful Saviour, send Thy angels to conduct Thy departed servant to a place of refreshment, light and peace. Amen.   Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. Casket Bearers Harold Adams James Carroll Donald Burgett Orville Roe Francis Spellman Joseph Jensen Honorary Casket Bearers Alvin Malcomson Bert Moe George Wells C.O. Strom George Sumnicht M.E. Chesebrough Burial at St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery LeRoy, Minnesota *   *   *   *   * Full Military Honors by American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Tillie died on March 30, 2008 at St. Marks Lutheran Home in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota.

Tillie, after being a cancer survivor twice, thanks to the medical doctors and treatment at the Mayo Clinic, has donated wher body to the Mayo Clinic to assist in Medical Education and to invest in the doctors of the future.

There will be an open house and a "Celebration of Life” at the Cedars of Austin on Sunday, July 6, 2008 from 2-5 p.m. She is survived by her twin sister Olivia Nelson, Lake Chrystal, Minnesota; son, Robert Owens; grandchildren, Mike, Kathy, Jerry, Jackie, Time, Molly; daughters, Marilyn (Larry) Hansen, California; grandchildren, Jason, Jamie, Patricia; 14 great-grandchildren.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Clayton Allen Proechel, age 46, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on June 29, 2008, at Good Samaritan Home in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He was born on August 28, 1961, to Neil and Jeannine (Olson) Proechel in Austin, where he grew up and graduated from high school in 1979. He worked in Austin until moving to Minneapolis about four years ago.

Survivors include his father, Neil Proechel, Austin; and a brother, Creig Anderson, Rochester.

He was preceded in death by his mother Jeannine Proechel; grandmother Elaine, and grandfather Lester.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, with Rev. Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment was at Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Bernice Elizabeth Landherr, age 86, of Taopi, Mower county, Minnesota, died on June 30, 2008 at Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage, Iowa.

She was born on August 6, 1921 in Rose Creek, Minnesota, to Frank and Clara Albrect. During World War II Bernice moved to California were she worked in an airplane factory as “Rosie the Riveter.” While in California she married Walter Best. After the war, Bernice moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and finally to Austin, where she had a beauty shop in her house for many years.

On June 6, 1981 she married Roman Landherr at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. In her spare time Bernice liked to paint, sew, garden and attend the Austin Artist Series. She was a member of the Sweet Adeline’s, the Sacred Heart Catholic Church CCW and a square dance club.

Bernice is survived by her husband, Roman Landherr, Taopi, Minnesota; and by a son, Dennis Best, Taopi.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by two brothers; by two sisters, and by first husband, Walter Best.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with Father James Seitz officiating. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Adams. Visitation was held at Adams Funeral Home on Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. with a 4:30 p.m. rosary.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Lola was born on February 2, 1920, the daughter of George F. and Minnie (Schwerger) Kunze in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. She was united in marriage to Peter Johnson on Aug. 18, 1940, and he died in April 1977. She was then married to Edgar Prigge on September 28, 1982. Lola was a teacher in rural schools in Sleepy Eye and Brownsdale Elementary. She also taught summer school in Austin. After teaching she was Catalog Manager at J.C. Penny in Austin. Lola was a member of our Savior Mower County and she sang in the church choir all her life.

Lola is survived by children, Steven (Cil) Johnson, Minnesota City, Minn., Judith (Paul) Thompson, Ankeny, Iowa, Randy (Jane) Johnson, Wabasha, Minn.; step son, Wayne (Jan) Prigge, Anchorage, Alaska; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three sisters, Evelyn Wyatt and Arla Spears of Rochester, and Hazel Grams of Slayton, Minn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; son, Kenneth Johnson; sisters, Lucille Schroeder and Melva Loftus.

The funeral service was held on Thursday, July 3, 2008, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Brownsdale with Vicar Jeff Sage Officiating. Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Brownsdale, and also for one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Alden Palmer Qualey, 86, of Austin died on June 30, 2008 at Good Samaritan Society Comforcare.

He was born July 18, 1921 in LaCrosse, Wis., to Edwin and Evelyn (Jeska) Qualey.

He graduated from Austin High School and served in the Army during WWII. He was the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He was married to Doris M. Hage on April 3, 1948 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Austin. Alden later attended the Austin Vocational Technical School. He was a retired employee of the George A. Hormel Company (Hormel Foods).

Alden was a licensed pilot and received his license at the age of 15. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed an occasional fishing trip.

Alden is survived by his children, Phillip and Cheryl Qualey, Austin, Randy Qualey and Ruth Schmidt, Austin; Cindy and Steve Ruble, Austin; Larry and Brenda Qualey, Austin; grandchildren, Lisa (Pete) Moore, Amy (Adam) Exe, Ryan (Sandy) Qualey, Ramona Qualey, Justin Qualey, Jesse Qualey, Karissa Qualey; five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife and a sister, Arlene Campbell.

Memorial services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, July 6, 2008 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church with the Reverend William Natzke officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery with Austin Post #91 American Legion and Olaf B. Damm Post #1216 Veterans of Foreign Wars in charge of military rites. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[Austin Daily Herald newspaper online, July 2, 2008 -- www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Marian Frances Hall, age 96, of Rochester, Minnesota, a long-time resident of Charter House, died on June 24, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital.

She was born June 8, 1912 in Austin. She graduated from Austin High School in 1929. She received her R.N. diploma from the Kahler School of Nursing in 1933. She practiced private duty nursing. Two of her famous patients were, author Helen Keller and singer Rosa Page Welsh. She then worked at the Mayo Clinic for 28 years.

She was an active member of the First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ and the CWF. She was also a member of the Kahler Alumni Association.

She had a beautiful voice and sang for many events. She enjoyed gardening and traveling all over the world, where she met Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi.

Survivors include a cousin and eight nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John Canfield Hall and Sarah Mable Thompson Hall; sister, O. Ione Hall; brothers, Howard V. Hall and Charles “Chuck” Hall; and close friend Florence Schmidt.

Memorials are preferred to First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, Rochester, Minnesota, the Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Methodist Hospital Kahler Library, Rochester, the American Bible Society, or the Salvation Army.

[Austin Daily Herald newspaper online, July 2, 2008 -- www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Onalee Valeria Armstrong, age 91, of Clarks Grove, Minnesota, died on June 30, 2008 at her residence. She was born January 23, 1917 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, to Chauncy and Charlotte (Strever) Avery.

On February 10, 1940 Onalee married Willard Armstrong at the Methodist Church in Northwood, Iowa. Onalee was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and the Relief Society. In her spare time Onalee enjoyed reading, camping, drawing, painting, puzzles, spending time with her family and friends. Onalee loved cooking, sewing and scrap booking.

Onalee is survived by her children, Tristan (Kris) Armstrong, Tascha (Robert) Buttke, Toya (Sam) Perez, Turner (Ivy) Armstrong, Todd Armstrong; Terry (Jennifer) Armstrong; Tanee (Nonie) Reeves; Trenton (Joan) Armstrong; Teresa (Yousef) Gheith; Teryl (Mary) Armstrong; 28 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Nettie Gardner; nieces and nephews.

Onalee was preceded in death by her husband, Willard Armstrong, brother Charles Avery and parents, Chauncy and Charlotte Avery.

Committal services will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, July 3, 2008 at Grandview Cemetery with Bishop Jared Peterson officiating. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

[Austin Daily Herald newspaper online, July 2, 2008 -- www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Merrill D. Fitzgerald, age 82, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. died on June 25, 2008 at the Adams Health Care Center.

He was born September 16, 1925 in Delavan, Minnesota, to Ernest and Ethel (Madora) Fitzgerald. He graduated from Delavan High School in 1943. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. He married Helen Piller in July of 1946 in Quincy, Mass. They moved to Austin in the early 1950's, where he worked for Austin Cab and Usem Chevrolet. Merrill was a member of the Austin Eagles Club, an avid sportsman, and he loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping.

Merrill is survived by his two sons, Paul Fitzgerald, Mesa, Ariz., David (Karen) Fitzgerald, Moundsview, Minnesota; grandchildren, Kim Fitzgerald, San Diego, California, Corey (Amy) Fitzgerald, Tucson, Arizona, Chris (Susan) Fitzgerald, Mesa, Arizona, Todd (Gina) Bridigum, Bloomington, Minnesota, Gretchen (Burt) Curtis, St. Paul, Minnesota; three great-grandsons; brother, Arden (Iris) Fitzgerald, Rushford, Minnesota.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and by his wife Helen in 2000.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 5, 2008, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment will be in the Delavan Cemetery in Delavan, Minnesota.

[Austin Daily Herald newspaper online, July 2, 2008 -- www.austindailyherald.com]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Vernon J. Tapp, age 88, of Wabasha, Minnesota, and formerly Mower county and Lake City, Minnesota, died on June 27, 2008 at St. Elizabeths Health Care Center in Wabasha.

Vernon Joseph Tapp was born on September 12, 1919 in Fairdale, North Dakota, to Ernest and Edith (Melugin) Tapp. He attended schools in Brook Park, Minnesota, and Northfield, Minnesota. He served in the Army during WW II. On August 19, 1944 he married Mildred Pinkava at the Methodist Church in Brownsdale, Minnesota. He lived at Brownsdale for several years and after their marriage they moved to Dexter, Minnesota, and farmed there for 26 years.

In 1970 they moved to Rochester, Minnesota, and Vernon worked as a Psychiatric Technician at the Rochester State Hospital in Rochester for 13 years, retiring in 1976. They traveled extensively for several years and moved to Lake City in 1999. Vernon was a member of the United Methodist Church in Lake City, and a member of the Lake City American Legion Post 110 and the Lake City VFW Post #8729.

Survivors include his wife, Mildred Tapp, Lake City; daughter, Carol (Robert) Hanson, Lake City; son, James (Janet) Tapp, Houston, Minnesota; thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Kenneth (Jeanette) Tapp, Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, David; two sisters and five brothers.

The funeral service was held on Wednesday, July 2, at the United Methodist Church in Lake City with Pastor Donald Jones officiating. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale, with Military Rites by the Lake City American Legion Post 110 and the Lake City VFW Post #8729. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Schleicher Funeral Homes, Lake City Chapel, in Lake City, Minnesota.

©2008 MNGenWeb