Dorothy Marie Knauer, age 77, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 20, 2008, at the home of her son, Tony and wife, Linda, in Rochester. She had been ill since January.

The eldest of six children, she was born Jan. 16, 1931, to Richard and Nora (Jacobson) Battey in Fillmore County, Minnesota. As a child, she lived in the vicinity of Lanesboro, Pilot Mound and Chatfield. She graduated from Adams High School in 1949. In 1950, she married Robert Knauer. They resided in Austin where Dorothy worked for the Mower County Veterans Administration and became a legal secretary for Plunkett and Peterson Law Office and later Peterson and Goodman. Since 1989, she had co-managed Knauer’s Meat Market with her husband in Austin.

Dorothy was a good wife, mother and grandmother. She was kind and generous, extending hospitality to all who came to her door. She had a kind word for everyone and will be missed by family and friends; however, we know that she trusted in Christ as her Savior and now abides with Him. Truly, life is a vapor.

Survivors include her husband, Robert Knauer, Austin; two sons, Mark (Marlene) Knauer, Austin and Anthony (Linda) Knauer, Rochester; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three brothers, George (Carol) Battey, Richard (Linda) Battey, Jr., and Carl Battey, all of Rochester; sister, Norma Hines, River Falls, Wisconsin; brother-in-law, LaVerne Larson, Kellogg.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Constance Larson.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Rev. Paul Nelson officiating. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin.

The Worlein Funeral Home in Austin was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 22, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Esther Anna Severson, age 85, of Baxter, Crow Wing county, Minnesota, died on August 3, 2008 at her home, where she was being cared for by her three daughters.

Esther was born on October 16, 1922, the daughter of Peter and Hilda Borgesen in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. She went to Austin High School and worked at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin as a dietician aid before her marriage.

She was united in marriage to Andrus Severson on August 3, 1940 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. She was a stay at home mom and longtime member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Andy and she were married 67 years when he passed away on January 21, 2008. Esther had a number of health problems over the years.

She is survived by her three daughters: Ann (Virg) Lundberg, Pine River, Minn., Terry (Dick) Bakke, Baxter, Minnesota, and Kimberly (Dwayne) Walker, Pine River; by six grandchildren: Rev. Darrin Mitchell, Nisswa, Minnesota, Nichol VanDorn, Rupert, Idaho, Roberta VanDorn, Escondido, Calif., and Shaina, Jared, and Jacob Walker, Pine River; by eight great-grandchildren; and by one sister-in-law, Katherine Borgesen.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Andy; by four children: Dickie, Andy, Troilee, and Jean Kay; by a grandson, Tait Bakke; by her parents; and by five siblings: Bud Borgesen, Stanley Borgesen, Judy Renairs, Vickie Eastburn and Shirlee Baumann.

Funeral Services for Esther will heldon Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

Visit www.brenny.com to leave a message of comfort and support to Esther’s family. Arrangements are entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Chapel of Baxter.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, August 6, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Allen Richard Harp, 47, of Austin, died on July 17, 2008 at his home. He was born to Richard and Audrey (Bartlett) Harp on May 20, 1961, in St. Paul, Minnesota. A welder by trade, Allen enjoyed watching Nascar racing.

Survivors include his children: Craig, Sara, Emily, Morgan, and Thomas; his father, Richard Harp (Mary Lea), Ellsworth, Wisconsin; his brother, Tony Harp (Tonya Storlie), Austin; his girlfriend, Michelle Groeneweg, Austin; his two ex-wives, Deanna Nichols and Chelsea Harp.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; by his mother, Audrey Harp; and by his uncle, Gerald Bartlett.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Major Marlys Anderson officiating.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 22, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Luella M. Mudra, age 98, of Stewartville, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, passed away on July 18, 2008 at the Golden Living Center East in Rochester.

She was born on Aug. 27, 1909 in Beaver Township**, Iowa. She moved with her family to rural Austin, where she grew up on the family farm and attended rural school.

Luella was married in 1925 in Austin to William E. Mudra. Following their marriage the couple lived in Austin where they owned a neighborhood grocery store, and she worked at a hair salon. They moved to rural Sargeant where they farmed. They were later divorced. She enjoyed playing cards and always had a positive attitude.

She is survived by her son, Gaylord of Stewartville, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents, D. Albert VanPelt and Valerie Schilling VanPelt; two sisters and one brother.

A graveside committal service was held on Thursday, July 24, 2008 at Union Cemetery in rural Boxholm, Iowa with the Reverend Paul Evans officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 22, 2008]

---

**NOTE: There are a number of Beaver Townships in Iowa. Among them are Beaver townships in the following counties: Boone, Polk, Dallas, Butler, Grundy, and Guthrie.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Wesley “Pete” Root, age 89, formerly of Spring Valley, Fillmore county, Minnesota, died on July 19, 2008 under the gentle care at Sunrise Cottages in Rochester where he had resided for the past two years.

Pete was born April 27, 1919 in Racine, Minnesota, to Mel and Helen (Johnson) Root. On June 16, 1939 he was united in marriage to Helen Born at the Zion Lutheran Church in Spring Valley and together they farmed in the Spring Valley and Racine areas.

After Helens death in 1999 he was united in marriage to Ivyll Hanson-Paulson at BearCreek Lutheran Church in July of 2000 she passed away in 2006. Along with farming Pete also worked at Krugels Gas Service in Spring Valley where he delivered propane starting in 1957 until his retirement, he continued to work for Krugels following his retirement doing seasonal deliveries for many years. After his retirement from Krugels he also worked for Hanson Family Farms at Grand Meadow.

In his early year he enjoyed playing softball and then bowling, fishing, playing cards, dancing, mowing lawn (Sometimes just to make tracks in the grass). He was a member of Bear Creek Lutheran Church, Bear Creek Mens Club, Yomaco and The Farm Bureau. He enjoyed going for drives to Forrestville to see the Deer and the Turkeys and was fondly known to many as “Grandpa Grumps”.

Pete was one of 11 children and was very proud to be part of the Root family.

He is survived by two daughters, Sharon Root, Rochester, Minnesota, and Carolyn (Larry) Baker of Neligh, Nebraska; by three grandchildren: Wayne (Tracy) Pollock, Dean (Leann) Eddy and Donna (Curt) Parker; by ten great-grandchildren: Brandon, Brogun, Daniel, Nathan, Dillon, Annabelle, Andrew, Noel, Elise and Jack; by seven siblings: Gene (Glendora) Root, Bloomington, Minnesota, Maynard (Phyllis) Root, Austin, Merton (Marlene) Root, Ostrander, Minnesota, Allan (Betty) Root, Rochester, Minnesota, Roger (Kathy) Root, Wabasha, Minnesota, Eilene Churchill, Spring Valley, Minnesota, Joyce (Howard) Turbenson Spring Valley, Minnesota; and by a sister-in-law, Delores Root, St Louis Park, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Helen in 1999; second wife, Ivyll in 2006; two brothers Clare and Warren; sister Ruth; sister-in-law, Vivian and tree brothers-in-law; Charles, Robert and Bud.

Memorial services for Wesley J “Pete” Root were held on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at the Bear Creek Lutheran Church in Frankford Township, Mower County, Minnesota, with the Rev Glen Bickford officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The Hindt Funeral Home in Spring Valley was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 22, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Michael R. Eaton, age 54, of Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota, died of cancer on July 21, 2008 at his home. He had been ill for a year.

Michael wsa born on June 1, 1954, in Norfolk, Nebraska, and moved to Austin in 1962 with his mother and stepfather, Jack Miller. He was a 1972 graduate of Austin High School. From 1972 to 1974, he lived in Pompano Beach, Florida.

Mr. Eaton had many different jobs during his lifetime. He worked at the Palm-Aire Country Club in Florida as a groundskeeper. In Rochester, he bartended many years at various places including the Lantern Lounge. He also worked for the Rochester school district for a few years, and his most recent employment was at the Mayo Civic Center.

In February 1980 he married Jane Schmidt of Rochester, and they later divorced. In August 2007 he married Julie VanKirk of Rochester.

In addition to his wife, Julie, he is survived by a daughter, Ashley at home; sister, Patty (Tracy) Rathai, Wells, Minnesota. Other survivors include two nieces, Jamie Clennon (Andy Yokiel), Wells, and Lindsay Clennon (Jason Williams), Alden, Minnesota; great-niece, Morgan; great-nephew, Logan; and an aunt, Delanie Horn of Norfolk, Neb.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

A memorial service for Michael R. Eaton will be held on Saturday at Macken Colonial Chapel in Rochester, with the Rev. Lester Horntvedt officiating.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 24, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

L. James Strouf, age 90, died on July 21, 2008 at his residence at St. Mark's Apartments in Austin.

Mr. Strouf was born on March 8, 1918 in Geraldine, Montana, to Ladislav and Mayme Strouf. He grew up on the Strouf family farm near Myrtle, Minnesota, and graduated from Austin High School in 1935. During WW II he served in the US Army 3rd Division, seeing extensive combat in Northern Africa, Italy, France and Germany.

After the war he married Bernice Day of Brownsdale, Minnesota, and they farmed for many years three miles northwest of Austin. later he was employed by Wilson Foods.

He is survived by his wife, Bernice Strouf, Austin; sister, Elinor Dahlke, Osage, Iowa; sister-in-law, Betty Voigt, Austin; son, James (Mary) Strouf, Austin; three granchildren, Vanessa Strouf Cantu, Austin, Adrian Strouf, Austin, Damon (Callie) Strouf of McFarland, Wis.; eight great-granchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ladislav and Mayme Strouf; two brothers, Alvin and Norman Strouf and sister, Helen Strouf Dahlke.

Mr. Strouf donated his body to Mayo Medical Research. An informal remembrance for family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2008, at St. Mark's Apartments dining hall.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 24, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Bill Koenigs, age 29, of Brownsdale, Mower county, Minnesota, formerly of Meyer, Mitchell county, Iowa, died on July 21, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota, of injuries received from a motorcycle accident.

Bill was born Nov. 24, 1978, in Osage, Mitchell county, Iowa, the son of Ray and Kathy (Ryan) Koenigs. He attended Visitation School in Stacyville and graduated from St. Ansgar High School in 1997, where he was Senior Class President.

Bill married Mary Gossman on August 14, 2004, in Rose Creek, Minnesota. They lived near Brownsdale. He was employed at Hormel Foods in Austin. Bill had an avid interest in antique Oliver tractors and loved his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He enjoyed his family, and especially enjoyed his nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 25, 2008, at the Sacred Heart Oratory in Meyer, Iowa, with Father James Seitz, Father John Moser, Father Ruben Spinler, and Deacon Gary Kasel officiating. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Meyer.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, July 24, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Victor H. Voss August 26, 1922 – April 30, 2008 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Victor and Mary; devoted husband and wife, loving and nurturing father and mother.

Victor Voss was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He lived a fulfilling life as a railroad man, a World War II Coast Guard veteran and a mechanic at the Hormel Company; the latter spanning a period of over 35 years. Victor took pride in, but was never boastful of, the fact that most of the “SPAM” which reached America’s tables was a direct result of the efforts of his maintenance team who kept the canning lines operating virtually around the clock. Always an enthusiast of a variety of automobiles, Victor’s love and knowledge of the Oldsmobile Toronado line of cars was widely known and respected. And you were always assured to see one of them on the site of the Vic’s regularly attended HAM radio “Field Days”, as his number one diversion into the realm of worldwide, “over-the-airwaves” communication was equally passionate.

With her proud Danish heritage behind her, Mary (Hansen) Voss hailed from Austin, Minnesota. As a homemaker and mother of their two cherished daughters, Mary’s days were always filled with sharing her love, spending time with her family and friends, and passing along the recipes for living a good life, as only a mother and friend can. Mary always made time to knit, crochet and bake holiday goodies in true Midwestern fashion.

Victor and Mary leave behind daughter, Nancy Voss, Sun City, Calif., and daughter and son-in-law, Leigh (Michael) Greer, La Mesa, Calif. A joint memorial service will be held August 7, 2008 at the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, California

Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be sent to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Building Fund in Austin.

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

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ronald Gene Ness, age 59, formerly of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died at his home in Anoka, Minnesota, on July 20, 2008. He was born on October 30, 1948 to LeRoy and Doris (Redwing) Ness in Austin. After graduating from high school in 1966, Ron earned his two year Machine Shop degree at the Austin Area Vocational School. He married Linda Retterath on Aug. 28, 1970 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church.

They moved to and made their home in Anoka where they were blessed with one daughter, Karla. The couple later divorced. Ronald attended Advent Lutheran Church in Anoka and belonged to Sons of the American Legion. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandsons. He also enjoyed his dog, bowling, biking and taking walks with his neighbors. He had a true passion for cars.

Survivors include a daughter, Karla (Brian) Luedtke, Princeton; two grandsons, Blaine and Blake; two brothers, Larry (Nancy) Ness, Manhattan, Kan. and Pastor William (Laurie) Ness, Verndale; nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Robert.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with the Reverend William Ness officiating. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery, south of Austin.

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

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Bernice Marie Meany, died in St. Anthony Village, Minnesota, on July 24, 2008 at age 90.

She was born in Rose Creek, Mower county, Minnesota, on March 30, 1918 to Elizabeth and John White. Bernice grew up on her parents’ farm near Rose Creek and married Willard Meany in 1936. They had eight children. Bernice lived in Rose Creek and was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church for over 60 years. She moved to Austin as a widow and enjoyed the company of many friends. In later years, Bernice was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Survivors include two sons: Jerry (Judy) Meany, Isle, Minnesota, Neil (Patrice) Meany, Wimberley, Texas; five daughters: Pat (Mark) Gilbertson, Seguin, Texas, Kathy (Bob) Toll, St. Anthony Village, Minnesota, Colleen (Larry) Urban, Hiawassee, Ga., Kelli (Charles) Bruner, Champlin, Minnesota, Erin Meany, Carbondale, Colorado; and 17 other descendants.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Willard; son, Terry; a grandson; two sisters; two brothers.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Monday, July 28, 2008 at St. Peter's Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. Interment was in St. Peter’s Cemetery, Rose Creek.

Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Elizabeth A. Felt, 73, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 26, 2008, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home in Austin. She was born December 24, 1934 to Marvin and Agnes (Larson) Mewhorter in Rochester, Minn., where she grew up. The family moved to Seattle, Washington. After she graduated from high school, they returned to Rochester.

She married Keith Felt on Dec. 31, 1955 in Rochester and moved to Austin in 1956. A member of First United Methodist Church, Elizabeth volunteered at the Victim’s Crisis Center. She loved camping and collecting various things, including stamps and spoons. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandson, Arnold.

Survivors include her husband, Keith, Austin; a son, Michael (Leila) Felt, Forney, Texas; daughter, Michelle (Dennis) Guttormson, Austin; six grandchildren: Angela, Daniel, Kasey, John and Jitauna; two great-grandchildren, Jon and Oliver; a brother, Marvin (Beverly) Mewhorter, Tucson, Arizona; a sister, Helen (LaVern) Moe, Rochester; and in-laws, Ron (Shirley) Felt, Albert Lea, Minnesota; Pat and Chuck Nelson, Park Rapids.

She was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Memorial services were held on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with Pastor Dennis Tamke officiating. Interment was at Grandview Cemetery, Austin. The family prefers memorials to First United Methodist Church.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Eunice L. Boysen, 81, of Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, died on July 25, 2008 at her son's home.

Eunice was born on July 21, 1927 in Mower County, the daughter of Jerold and Ruby Jeanette Lee . She was baptized by B.A. Johnson and confirmed by Earl R. Weeks at Evanger Lutheran Church where she attended Sunday School and sang in the church choir.

On September 1, 1945 she was united in marriage to Elmer Boysen. To this union was born a son, Dennis. They lived in Austin and Waltham. Elmer passed away on their anniversary on Sept. 1, 1991. On June 18, 2005 she was united in marriage to Morris A. Linbo at Evanger Church by Pastor Hawkins. They made their home in Hayfield.

Eunice went to a rural school in Dodge County and high school in Hayfield. Her language at home was Norwegian so she spoke very little English when she was at school. Her home was a house filled with music. Her dad was an old time fiddler and all kinds of musicians came for jam sessions. Eunice was a self taught accordian player and rhythm piano player. She and her father began playing at wedding dances, house parties, anniversaries and nursing homes. Later she joined a band called "Sal and the Rhythmaires" playing and singing solo with the group, then traveled playing at the VFW club and others all over the area. Eunice also worked as a sales person at Zales Jewelry and Lord's Jewelry.

Eunice helped her dad in the fields, drove tractor and did other farm work. She then started making three tier wedding cakes and this kept her busy. Eunice loved to have her family over and served lutefisk, lefsa, meatballs and all the trimmings every Christmas for years. Morris and Eunice were host and hostess at the famous Evanger Lutefisk supper.

Survivors include her husband, Morris Linbo, Hayfield; son, Dennis Boysen, Austin; grandchildren, Kim (Chris) Baier, Austin, Brett (Kim) Boysen, Austin, Bryan (Jen) Boysen, Austin; great grandchildren, Lynae, Nicholas and Kellie Baier, Joshua, Megan and Stephanie Boysen, Maddelyn Boysen; sister, Mavis (Don) Odegard, Seattle, Washington; brothers, Erling (Lucille) Lee, Zumbro Falls, Delmar Lee, Cotati, California, Donald (Judy) Lee, Kasson; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Merlyn and Jerold Jr.; sister, Marlene; daughter-in-law, Barb Boysen.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church with Rev. Glenn Monson officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery. Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

The casket bearers were: Rick Lee, Bradley Lee, Garth Lee, Mike Lee, Jeff Lee and Tom Odegard.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

VerDean Emery Johnson, 63, of Welch, Minn., died tragically in a motorcycle accident in Brownsville, Texas on March 29, 2008.

He was born on January 29, 1945, in Salina, Kansas, to Emery and LaVonne Johnson. VerDean grew up in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. As a young boy, he delivered newspapers for the Austin Daily Herald and the Sunday St. Paul Pioneer Press, making sure to hit every doorstep. During his teenage years, he perfected his cooking skills while working at the Main St. Café. He graduated from Austin High School in 1963. He graduated from Austin Jr. College and moved to the Twin Cities where he attended the University of Minnesota.

He married Latisha Hanson on March 10, 1967. They lived for many years in St. Paul, Minn., while raising their family. He was a retired electrical engineer for Gillette. He and his wife Latisha were enjoying their retirement years and celebrated 41 years of marriage in March, 2008. He enjoyed traveling boating, camping and fishing. Everyone who knew him loved his witty charm and good nature.

He is survived by his wife, Latisha; by a son, Daniel (Robbin) Johnson, Bremerton, Wash.; by two daughters, Amy (Chris) Johnson, Hastings, Minn., and Pam (Rory) Small, Hastings, Minn.; by seven grandchildren: Oban, Jura, Clayton, Reilly, Mitchell, Abigail, and Deanna; father, Emery Johnson, Austin; two brothers, Keith C. Johnson, Austin and Mark R. (Diane) Johnson, Minnetonka, Minn.; by five sisters: Christine (Michael) Smith, Rochester, Minn., Diane (Donald) Olson, Austin, Rhonda (Jerry) Rosenthal, Fremont, Neb., Carole (Bruce) Augustin, Austin and Rita (Tom) Rieffer, Dickenson, Texas; by his mother-in-law, Darlene Hanson, Austin; and by a brother-in-law, Harold (Diane) Hanson, Anoka, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his mother, LaVonne Johnson and father-in law, Al Hanson.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2008, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Herman Vernon Kruckeberg, 83, passed away at his home in Blooming Prairie on July 27, 2008.

He was born Aug. 12, 1924 at his family home in Steele County, Minn., to Herman and Amelia (Behne) Kruckeberg. Herman graduated from Blooming Prairie High School. He married Harriet Hunter at St. John’s Lutheran Church on March 22, 1944. The couple made their home in Newry where they started farming. Moving to the Waltham area, of Mower county, in 1964. They retired after 44 years of farming. They moved to Blooming Prairie. Herman enjoyed carpentry and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Harriet, Blooming Prairie; three daughters, Judy (William) Nygren, Buffalo City, Wis., Connie (Michael) Leighton, Boynton Beach, Fla., Debbie (Daryl) Nelson, Blooming Prairie; eight grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; sister, Marcella Garrett, Faribault; brother, Kenneth, Blooming Prairie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; by seven brothers; by three sisters; and by a grandson.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 30, 2008, at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. Interment was at Blooming Prairie Cemetery.

Arrangements were by Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ruth Florence Distad died on July 28, 2008, having reached the age of 96.

She was born on January 29, 1912, to John and Julia (Leen) Distad, in Westfield Township, Dodge County, Minnesota.

She attended rural School District 64 and Hayfield High School, graduating in 1928. After graduating from the Dodge Center Teacher Training facility, she obtained a limited teaching certificate. She taught in three rural schools of Dodge County for fifteen years. After attending summer school courses and off-campus courses for a number of years she earned her B.S. degree from Winona State College. In 1953, she joined the Austin Public School system, teaching in Shaw Elementary for twenty two years. She retired in 1975.

She held memberships in A.A.R.E.A, REAM, and MEA. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield for many years. Moving to Austin in April 1971, she joined St. Olaf Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday School, and participated in Circles and WELCA activities. Before retiring she had traveled extensively in the United States and Canada. After retiring she branched out to Europe, Africa, and Israel. Historic sights and scenic wonders were favorites in her travels.

She will be missed by her brother, Clifford Distad, Blooming Prairie, and several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews.

She will be welcomed into heaven by her parents, four sisters and two brothers.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 31, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Interment is at Fairview Cemetery, Hayfield. Arrangements were by Worlein Funeral Home in Austin.

Memorials are preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield or St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, Austin Daily Herald, July 30, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Jean A. Movich, age 76, of Richmond, Indiana, died Tuesday evening, July 29, 2008, in Reid Hospital in Richmond. She was born in Isanti, Minnesota, on June 2, 1932, to Armand and Edith Larsen Sutter and had lived in Richmond for the past 15 years, having moved to Richmond from Walnut, California, in 1993.

She was a graduate of Austin High School in Austin, Mower County, Minnesota, and was a retired 30-year employee of the Internal Revenue Service.

Survivors include her husband of 39 years, John Movich; five brothers:

Grandview Cemetery, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Gary Sutter of Austin, Minnesota; Bradley (Nancy) Sutter of Williamsburg, Virginia; Jon (Jan) Sutter of North Richmond Hills, Texas; Steven (Suzanne) Sutter of Osseo, Minnesota; and Michael Sutter of Bloomington, Minnesota; sister, Diane (Ronald) Nelson of Port Ludlow, Washington; 18 nephews; and 11 nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and by a sister, Kay (Paul) Pemble of Cresco, Howard county, Iowa.

Committal services were held at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 4, 2008 at

Map to Grandview Cemetery

Grandview Cemetery, 801 Millcreek Road, Johnstown, Cambria county, Pennsylvania (See map and arial photo). The cemetery phone number is 814-535-2652; its latitude is 40.3168 north and its longitude is -78.9263 west. Arrangements were by Francis G. Ozog Funeral Home, 710 Broad Street, Johnstown, PA 15906; phone number: 814-536-5311 [Original obituary posted on The Tribune Democrat (online), Johnstown, PA Aug. 2, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Carol Jean Anderson, age 79, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, and formerly of Sargeant, Mower county, Minnesota, died at Austin Medical Center Thursday evening, July 31, 2008.

Carol was born on February 3, 1929 to Verne and Dorothy (Syck) Pike in rural Brownsdale, Mower county, Minnesota. After attending elementary school in Brownsdale, Carol graduated from Austin High School in 1944.

She married Stanley Anderson on Dec. 12, 1945 in Austin. She was employed by Larson Products and Sargeant Grain Elevator. After working together on the family farm for 61 years, Carol and Stanley moved to Austin in December, 2006. A member of Zion United Methodist Church, Carol loved to dance and enjoyed gardening and canning. She will be remembered as the “candy lady” at HyVee.

Survivors include her husband: Stanley Anderson, Austin, Minn.; five children: Terry (Kathi) Anderson, Hayfield, Minn.; Patti Hammock, Hayfield, Hayfield, Minn., Sue (James) Beyer, Stewartville, Minn., Thomas Anderson, Sargeant, Minn., Cathy (Eric) Severson, Kasson, Minn.; 13 grandchildren; six step grandchildren; three great grandchildren; four step great grandchildren; brother: Luverne “Bud” (Evelyn) Pike of Grundy Center, Iowa, Evalyn Hartson, Waltham, Minn.; sister-in-law: Jackie Pike, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Linda; son-in-law, Lee Hammock; brother, Joseph, brother-in-law, Dale Hartson.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 4, 2008 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. James Beyer officiating. Interment was in Waltham Cemetery.

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Archie Orlando Steen, 92, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 28, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

He was born May 8, 1916 on a farm near Soldier, Iowa, to Chris and Anna (Nelson) Steen.

Archie enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1941 and was discharged as a Captain in 1952. He was married to Evelyn A. Hansen on March 24, 1946 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Archie was employed as the Sensitized Products Manager with U.S. Blueprinting Co. in Englewood, Colo. In May of 1983 the Steen’s returned to Austin.

He was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Denver, Colorado, and then joined Our Savior's Lutheran in Austin when they returned to the area. Evelyn passed away on February 6, 1990 and Archie moved to Iowa. He was married to Dorothy Adams in Oct. of 1991. Dorothy passed away in May of 1999 and Archie return to Austin in 2001.

He was a member of the American Legion, Lutheran Brotherhood and the Our Savior's 60 plus group. He loved bowling and was a stamp and coin collector.

Archie is survived by his sister-in-law, Lorraine Bartz, Austin; brother-in-law, Wilbur Phipps, Onawa, Iowa; step-son, Keith (Shirley) Adams, Galva, Iowa; two step-grandsons: Shane Adams, Galva, Bryce Adams, Galva; step-granddaughter, Amy Adams, Bellevue, Neb.; step-great-grandson, Tanner Adams, Bellevue, Neb.; nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by an infant son, Donald Richard Steen in 1950; wife, Evelyn in 1990; wife, Dorothy in 1999; sister, Helen Phipps and brother-in-law, Helmer Bartz.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church with the Reverend Glenn Monson officiating. Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin with Austin Post # 91 American Legion in charge of military rites.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The casket bearers were: Paul Bartz, Ralph Bartz, Kyle Bartz, Keith Adams, Shane Adams and Corey Hansen. [Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, July 3, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Cletta Estelle Geary, 84, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 29, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

She was born on October 25, 1923 in Neligh, Nebraska, to Charles and Hazel (Johnson) Geary.

Cletta was a former restaurant owner and interior painter and designer. She then went to work for Physician Mutual Insurance as a sales person in South Dakota where she gained numerous top sales person awards and trips to Hawaii. She moved to the Austin area where she was a member of the First Congregational Church and former member of the League of Women Voters.

She had many hobbies, including photography, traveling, collecting dolls and rocks, and most of all gardening.

Cletta is survived by her son, Lowell E. Steinbach, Dexter, Minnesota; daughter, Doni Ray and Ivan Ray Lacey, Canon City, Colorado; grandchildren, Scott A. Wesely, Todd and Marna Lacey, Amber and Rod Eichorn, Justin and Crystal Steinbach; three great-grandchildren, Brayden and Brody Steinbach and Trevor Lacey; brothers, Gale Geary, Texas; sister, Joann Hatt, Sioux Falls, S.D.; brother, Willard Geary, Norfolk, Neb.; nieces and nephews.

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

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at First Congregational Church with the Reverend Lev Reynolds officiating. Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

The organist was Ernie Murphy. Casket Bearers were: Justin Steinbach, Steve Hatt, Dave Hatt and Dewayne Vogel; an honorary bearer will be Lowell Steinbach. [Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, July 3, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Kathryn Ann "Connie" Baldner, 92, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 31, 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Kathryn was born on September 8, 1915 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to James and Agnes (Losby) McClelland. On August 25, 1935 she was united in marriage to Oscar F. Baldner in Austin. He preceded her in death on July 20, 1991.

Kathryn was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a homemaker. Throughout her life she worked at various positions at Hormel, Ankeny Mini Marts and her own day care service. Kathryn volunteered at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in the office and nursery. She was a member of the Moose Lodge and served in the Women's Auxiliary. She was also an avid reader and skilled baker of cookies and apple pies.

Survivors include three children: Richard (Gayle) Baldner, Minnetonka, Minnesota, Karen (Warren) Williams, Chandler, Arizona, Kriss (Gary) Beckman, Austin, Texas; five grandchildren: Brittany Baldner, Derek (Kristy) Williams, Trent Williams, Tage Beckman, Kale Beckman; three great-grandchildren: Logan Williams, Daisy Williams, Lilly Williams; three nieces: Dorothy Clemmer, Omaha, Nebraska, Alice McGuire, Zimmerman, Carol Ann Guisti, Mount Prospect, Illinois; a nephew, Harold (Lorraine) Clemmer, New Prague; numerous great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by two sisters, Evelyn Kranz and Dorothy Dahl.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 4, 2008 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga officiating. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

The honorary casket bearers were: Derek Williams, Trent Williams, Tage Beckman, Kale Beckman, Logan Williams and Brittany Baldner. Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. [Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, July 3, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Charlotte “Jo” Mayer, age 92, a resident of the Adams Health Care Center in Adams, Mower county, Minnesota, and formerly of LeRoy, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Wednesday July 30, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota.

She was born in Victor, Iowa on September 1, 1915 to Amil and Della (Remrey) Cleppe. On June 25, 1936 Charlotte “Jo” was united in marriage to Joseph Mayer at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Chelsea, Iowa. They farmed in Iowa for many years and in 1960 they moved to LeRoy, Minnesota, to a farm on the state line road.

She was a member of Womens Relief Corp., Friendly Garden Club of Taopi and Adams, Christmas Club, LeRoy Senior Citizens, and was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and family.

Charlotte “Jo” is survived by her son, Dick (Janet) Mayer, Riceville, Iowa; two daughters, Janice (Ralph) Drees, Spring Valley, Minn., and Yvonne (Steve) Price, Lyle, Minn.; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and brother, August “Gus” Cleppe, Marion, Iowa, and two sisters, Mary Tomas, Tama, Iowa, and Teresa Rund, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by her husband, Joseph in 1997; by a daughter, Joanne in 1957; and by three brothers.

Funeral services for Charlotte “Jo” Mayer were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in LeRoy, with Father Steve Peterson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Hindt Funeral Home of LeRoy was in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, July 3, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mary E. Davis, age 68, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died at Prairie Manor Care Center in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, on Friday morning, August 1, 2008.

Mary was born on August 23, 1939, in Lake City, Iowa, the daughter of Almond R. and Helen J. (Barr) Steinblock. Mary grew up in Austin and married Roger Dean Davis on December 28, 1957. They made their home in Austin, where Mary raised their family and worked at several jobs including being a cook at Johnny’s. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting.

She is survived by three sons: Gary (Rebecca) Davis, Claremont, Minnesota, Tim (Michelle) Davis, Austin, Minnesota, and Ron Davis, Brownsdale, Minnesota; by three daughters: Laurie (Gary) Harris, Austin, Minnesota, Tammy (Jay) Corey, Austin, and Brenda (Richard) Ellingson, Waltham, Minnesota; by 17 grandchildren; by three great grandchildren; by her mother, Helen Steinblock, Cameron, Wisconsin; by her brothers: Ed (Judy) Steinblock, St. Cloud, Ron (Anita) Steinblock, Cameron, Wis., Richard (Deb) Steinblock, Austin, and Duane (Sue) Steinblock, Barron, Wisconsin; by a sister, Carole (Kevin) Ziebell, Lewiston; by a sister-in-law, Beverly (Curtis) Schultz, Owatonna, Minnesota; and by a brother-in-law, Martin Davis of California.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roger Davis; by her father, Almond Steinblock; by a daughter, Debbie; and by her grandparents.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, August 4, 2008, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, with Rev. David Breederland, officiating. Interment was in Grandview Cemetery south of Austin. [Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, July 3, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

LaVina Mae Bute, 88, of Austin, died on Aug. 4, 2008 at Adams Healthcare Center in Adams.

She was born May 13, 1920 to John and Esther (Boreen) Felt in Madison, S.D. When LaVina was a child, the family moved to Minnesota where LaVina attended school in Jackson. She married Harold Bute on Sept. 14, 1936 in Sioux Falls, S.D. After making their home in Jackson for many years, LaVina and Harold moved to the twin cities. She was a cook in Coon Rapids at the school and the hospital.

During the late 1980’s they moved to Austin where LaVina cooked in the coffee shop at St. Olaf Hospital. Harold passed away on June 10, 1995. In 2000 LaVina made her home at Pickett Place. She loved cooking, baking, traveling, bowling, family gatherings and spending time with friends and grandchildren.

Survivors include six children, John (Lorene) Bute, Lebanon, Ore., Clifford (Barbara) Bute, New Brighton, Linda (Gary) Forslund, Blaine; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one niece and two nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Esther and John Felt; husband, Harold; son, Larry; daughter, Tammy and one brother, Clifford Felt.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 8, 2008, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin with the Reverend Patricia Toschak officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, Aug. 5, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Charles H. Dormady, age 84, of Austin,Mower county, Minnesota, died on July 23, 2008 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota.

He was born on January 5, 1924 in Rapid City, South Dakota to Howard C. Dormady and Doris Winifred Deeth. He received his high school diploma and served in the Army, where he received a Good Conduct medal, American Theatre Service Ribbon and Asiatic/Pacific Theater Service Ribbon. He married Mae Dean "Dade" Vesey.

Charles worked for the Geo. A. Hormel and Company for forty years. He enjoyed woodworking, bowling, watching Western movies, and reading Louis L'Amour books.

Survivors include his sons, Tom (Pam) Dormady, Michigan and Steve (Lynn) Dormady, New York; daughter, Pam Dormdy, New Hampshire; brothers, Bill Dormady, Washington and Dick (Diane) Dormady, Minneapolis, Minnesota; sister, Sally (Marlin) Perdy, Minneapolis; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers and sisters; daughter, Debbie and his wife Dade.

An informal remembrance for family and friends will be held on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Crane Community Chapel in Austin. Charlie donated his body to Mayo Medical Research. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army and the Crane Community Chapel Kid's Camp.

[Original obituary posted online at www.austindailyherald.com, Aug. 5, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Randy Lee Willmert, age 47, of Mankato, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on August 3, 2008.

He was born on January 10, 1961 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. Randy earned a degree in culinary arts at Albert Lea VoTech.

Family meant everything to Randy, and he and Margi felt blessed by God with the gift of their two children.

In his life and at his death, Randy was surrounded by the love of family and friends, including his wife and the love of his life, Margaret (Margi) Larson Willmert; he was a devoted father to his children, James, age five and Sophia, age two; father, Richard, and mother, Lorraine of Austin; siblings, Diane Gilbert (Mike), Rochester, Rick (Julie), Cottage Grove, Ruth Oelkers (Vance), Austin, Darlene Duholm (Randy), Austin, Debbie Willmert, Austin and Rita Seha, Rochester; father-in-law, Larry Marble, Richfield; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; aunts and uncles; brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws; cousins and many great friends.

He is preceded in death by younger brother, David; and grandparents, Clarence and Edith Langerud, and Ole and Dorothy Willmert; step-grandfather, Bob Reed; uncles; and mother-in-law, Mary Larson Marble.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday Aug. 8, 2008 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 632 Broad St. South. Internment will be Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Grandview Memorial Gardens in Austin.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, August 6, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Mary Hardy Hughson was born on July 2, 1923 in the north coastal town of South Shields, England. She was one of three children born to John and Mary Thompson. She grew up in South Shields and graduated from her schooling there and stayed there until World War II came along. During this time Mary enlisted in the Air Raid Warden Squadron which brought her to a dance in Birmingham, England where she met her future husband, and American GI, Arthur Hughson. They were married in England and had their first of two sons before moving to the Austin in 1946.

Mary was very active in volunteer work during her life working with organizations such as the Civil Defense in the 1950’s, the YMCA, creating a day camp for disabled children, garden clubs, and auxiliary work with both the Legion and the VFW. In addition to these activities was the central interest of her life, which was her membership and participation in many activities with the First United Methodist Church. Mary was involved in many fellowship groups and most recently headed up activities with The Caring Ministries which provided communion and other church interests to seniors, most of whom were in nursing homes.

During her life, Mary gave freely of her time and energy and touched many people’s lives. Mary was also an avid knitter, and many local residents have benefitted from her craft.

She is survived by her two sons, Terrance (Diane) and Dean, both of Denver, Colorado; granddaughter, Jennifer and grandson, Gregory. She also has five great-grandchildren.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Art, and her brother and sister.

The funeral will be held at the First United Methodist Church, with the Reverend Patricia M. Toschak officiating, on Friday, August 7, 2008. The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, August 6, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Gundi S. Busch was born on September 11, 1938 on the Baltic Sea at Grevesmuhlen, Germany. She suffered a massive stroke on July 26, 2008 and passed away that same day.

Gundi had a warm and loving nature, a sharp mind and a delicious sense of humor. To know her was to love her.

She met her first love and husband, Jerry Estlick, while he was stationed with the US military at Bad Aibling, Germany. She was visiting friends in that area, recuperating from an appendectomy. They met, dated and fell in love. They were married in Germany where their eldest child, Susanne, was born. After Jerry's discharge, they settled in Austin. Their family grew to include three more children: Mike, Dawne and Jackie. They eventually moved to Mankato, where Jerry received his BA degree. This led them to Colorado Springs, where he taught school for nearly 20 years and Gundi was employed by TRW.

Jerry passed away on June 7, 1997 following a lengthy illness, Gundi had cared for him with love and devotion during his illness and was devastated at his passing.

William (Buck) Hayes was an acquaintance of theirs whom they had met while camping with the Good Sam Group. Several years after Jerry's death he called Gundi and invited her to dinner to celebrate his birthday. She accepted and they soon found they shared many common interests. They were married in June 2001. They had a wonderful seven years together. He always lovingly referred to her as his "bride" and she delighted in calling him "Mr. Hayes." Gundi was blessed to have been loved by two good men.

She is survived by her husband; her children, Susanne (Mike) Harrelson, Mike (Sally) Estlick, Dawne (Gary) Harrison, Jackie (Pete) Zimowski; step-children, Linda and Randy; grandchildren and great-granchildren; sister-in-law, Pat (Ray) Swenson, Austin, Naomi Carter, Sacramento, Calif.; and two brothers in Germany.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jerry Estlick; his parents, Frank and Mary Estlick; her parents, Nicolai and Ellinor Busch and brother, Hans Gunther Busch.

When we think of Gundi, we will always smile. She survived a terrible war, leaving her family in Germany, coming to a strange country, the rigors of raising a damily and the loss of a husband. Despite this, she always remained positive with a big hug and a smile for everyone. We shall miss her.

Funeral services and a celebration of her life were held on July 30, 2008 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, August 6, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Leola M. Matter, age 89, of Waltham, Mower county, Minnesota, died on August 4, 2008 at St. Marys Medical Center in Duluth, Minnesota.

Leola was born on October 19, 1918, in Osage, Mitchell county, Iowa, the daughter of Herbert and Linda (Groth) Frese. She attended Osage schools. She married Harold Howe on February 5, 1938 in Charles City, Iowa. He died March 16, 1963. She later married Arnold Matter on December 19, 1971 at St. Michaels Lutheran Church in Waltham.

Leola worked as a waitress in Lyle, Minnesota, and St. Ansgar, Iowa. She was a homemaker and enjoyed reading, cooking and spending time in the summer at their cabin on Lake Vermillion. She was a member of the St. Michaels Lutheran Church.

Leola is survived by her husband, Arnold; son, James Howe, St. Ansgar; daughter, Linda (Gary) Bork, St. Ansgar; sister, Fern Erickson, Monona, Iowa; six grandcildren; 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold Howe; sister, Verna Olson and great-grandson, Jordan Howe.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, August 8, 2008 at St. Michaels Lutheran Church in rural Waltham with the Reverend John Heruth officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Czaplewski Family

Funeral Home in Hayfield, is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, August 6, 2008]

©2008 MNGenWeb

 

Ruth Bjortomt, a resident of Albert Lea, Freeborn county, Minnesota, died on June 28, 2008. Funeral services were held on July 2, 2008, and burial was in Hillcrest Cemetery.

Ruth Marian Petersen was born on November 4, 1919 to Leo and Pearl (Hansen) Petersen in Howard County, Iowa. She attended LeRoy High School, LeRoy, Mower county, Minnesota, where she played basketball, graduating in 1937.

Ruth married Harold (Shorty) Bjortomt on June 14, 1941 in LeRoy. The couple lived briefly in LeRoy moving to Adams, St. Ansgar and then to Albert Lea in the mid 1960's. Ruth was a member of First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea where she was active in circles 31 & 32 and also the quilting group "Happiness is a Blanket." Ruth was also a former member of the Albert Lea Moose Club.

Survivors include her children, Don and his wife Therese of Huntington, Indiana, Larry and his wife Vicky of Waterloo, Iowa, and Roger and his wife Marlene of Mankato, Minnesota; grandchildren, Brian Bjortomt and wife, Karen, Christine Chandler and husband, Todd, Gwen Hunter and husband, Blake, Scott Bjortomt and wife, Dena, Blake Bjortomt, Brook Bjortomt, Arrick Howard and wife, Kristi, and Dawn Storie and husband, Jim; great-grandchildren, Nathan Hunter, Heather Hunter, Austin Hunter, Alexandra Bjortomt and Xander Bjortomt, Samantha Chandler, Mitchell Chandler, Jordan Bjortomt, Lauren Bjortomt, Trayci Howard, Gabrielle Howard, and Evan Storie; and sister-in-law, Violet Adams.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold; great-granddaughters, Bailey Hunter and Rilley Howard; sister, Anna and her husband, Harold Jensen; and brother-in-law, Robert Adams.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Peace and Power ministry of First Lutheran Church.

[Obituary c/o Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home, Albert Lea, Minnesota -- http://obit.bayviewfuneral.com/ ]

©2008 MNGenWeb