John Theodore Huinker, age 78, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Sunday, January 4, 2009 at his home.

John was born on January 18, 1930 in Fort Atkinson, Iowa to Anthony and Christine (Duclos) Huinker, and he grew up in Austin. In August 1948 he married Mary Weis in Rochester. She preceded him in death in 1986. In May 1987 he married Donna (Olund) Christensen in Austin at St. Olaf Lutheran Church where they were both members. John retired from the Hormel Foods Corp. after 43 years. He enjoyed bowling, bird watching, cooking, working in his yard and lounging in his pool. John was deeply loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Huinker, Austin; children, Joel (Mary Dahl) Huinker, Austin, Christine (Gary) Thorson, Rochester, Joan (Mark) Flaherty, Rochester, Mark (Debi) Huinker, St. Ansgar, Iowa, Tim (Kris) Huinker, Waconia, Jessica (Dan) Wampach, Stewartville; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; siblings, Adolph (Ethel) Huinker, Austin, Hildegarde Golden, Austin, Rosemary (Bill) Cook, Austin.

In addition to his first wife, he is preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Christine Huinker; three brothers: Art, Don, Francis; three sisters: Margaret, Virginia and Delores.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 8, 2009 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, with the Reverend Ron Barnett officiating. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin. The casket bearers were: Gary Thorson, Dan Wampach, Jeff Huinker, Tony Huinker, Aaron Huinker and Brian Huinker.

The Mayer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Rollin N. Erickson, age 83, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, and formerly of Carlos, Minnesota, died on December 31, 2008 at Prairie Manor in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota.

Rollin was born on March 30, 1925, in Barnum, Minnesota, the son of Emmett and Mary (Monfeldt) Erickson. When Rollin was 5 months old the family moved to Alexandria, Minnesota, where he lived until enlisting in the United States Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1946. In 1948, Rollin was hired as a Greyhound Bus driver and worked until he was recalled to serve in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. Upon his Honorable Discharge from the Navy, Rollin married Gladys Pederson of Osakis on May 3, 1952. To this union three children were born: Dave, Jim and Mary. Rollin returned to driving buses for Greyhound until he started with the Minnesota State Highway Patrol in 1957 and retired 25 years later in 1982 from the 2900 Station in Detroit Lakes, Minn. In addition to his career in law enforcement, Rollin also was the safety director for Spring Lake Park and Kottke School Bus companies.

Rollin enjoyed camping with his wife and children for many years and later joined the Good Sam Camping Club and was their Wagon Master for 13 years. Retirement didn’t slow him down. At 58 years of age, he started taking Shotokon Karate lessons in Alexandria, Minn. and at Central MN Karate in St. Cloud, Minn. Rollin achieved the rank of third degree black belt at the age 77. Rollin took great pride in his country and served as the commander for two terms 1989 to 1990 at the VFW Post 7902 in Osakis, Minn. and two terms 2005 to 2007 at the VFW Post 936 in Alexandria.

The Ericksons loved to travel and lived in many places in the state of Minnesota and finally ended in Austin. While living in Carlos, Rollin served as trustee for Trinity Lutheran Church. He wore many hats and belonged to numerous organizations. Whatever Rollin was committed to at the time, he took on with great tenacity and dedication. He enjoyed getting together with family, friends and neighbors to share stories and tell jokes, while sipping a brandy or two. However, throughout the years Rollin had one obsession: garage sales. He will be remembered by his loved ones as loyal, compassionate and quick with a joke. He is greatly admired for his commitment to his work, country and family.

Rollin is survived his wife, Gladys, Austin; sons, David (Irene), Hewitt, Minn., James, Lyle, Minn.; daughter, Mary, Austin; grandchildren, David Jr., Brian, Jesse, Lee and Maya; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Beatrice Hoover and Doloris (Walter) Dittberner.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Jennifer; sisters, Leona, Lillian, Vivian, Bernice and Arlene; brothers, Harlan and Norman. Pallbearers were: Dick Thom, Wes Hoyhtya, Jeff Gunderson, Doug Huhyer, Daryl Tvrdik and Dan Kakac. Honorary pallbearers were: grandchildren, great grandchildren, VFW, Greyhound Bus Company and Minnesota State Patrol.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Carlos. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net.

Austin Daily Herald

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Sep. 20, 1907
d: Dec. 29, 1981

Walter Edward Blowers was born on September 20, 1907, at Austin, Minnesota, son of Nellie May and Walter Scott Blowers.

He received his education in the Austin school system. He left Austin for Memphis, Tenn. and took an apprenticeship in the plastering trade. He returned to Austin and worked at his trade, until he went to work for Hormel's in May of 1942, retiring in February of 1971.

On Feb. 12, 1931, he was united in marriage with Inez Strand. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

He suffered a heart attack after surgery at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 1981.

Preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers and one sister.

Survivors include his wife, Inez, sons and daughters-in-law, Robert and Florence, Larry and Mary Ann; six grandchildren; three brothers, Earl and Raymond of Austin, Donald of Eau Claire, Wis.; one sister, Elizabeth Guiney,Austin; nieces an nephews.

Services were held at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Saturday, Jan. 2, 1982. Rev. Carl Borgwardt officiating. Gerald Wakefield was soloist, with Neal Erickson, organist. Casket bearers were Michael Blowers, Daniel Attlesey, Pat Coffman, Arthur Volstad, Herbert Schmidt. Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery.

Walter (Butch) was loving and kind to all who knew him.

Blessed be his memory.

[Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Michael J. Turner, age 47, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Thursday, January 8, 2009, at his home.

Mike was born on December 26, 1961 in Austin, to Lyle “Ike” and Betty Turner. He went to school at Austin High. He married Shawna Chapek of Glenville on December 26, 1988. Mike resided in Orlando, Florida for many years where he worked at Walt Disney World. He was a horticulture specialist and landscaper for many of the Disney hotels and resorts. Mike recently moved back to the Austin area to be closer to his daughter, Serena, who resides in Apple Valley, Minnesota.

Mike loved the outdoors, fishing, camping and gardening. He also enjoyed cooking and he loved spending time with Serena, who was the pride and joy of his life.

Survivors include his daughter, Serena, and Serena's mother, Shawna Turner; mother: Betty Turner, Austin; brother: David (Robin) Turner, Orlando, Fla.; sisters: Ann (Doug) Lunning, Mason City, Iowa, Rita (Steve) Millam, Austin, Mary Lou Jondal, Austin; nieces and nephews, Chad and Jamie Millam, Jesse and Brandon Turner, Dayna and Danielle Jondal.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ike Turner.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 12, 2009 at Mayer Funeral Home, with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, January 11, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: March 5, 1906
d: June 2, 1920

Harold Blowers is dead. Perhaps you didn't know Harold but there were hundreds of people who did and they loved this little lad who passed away at the age of 14 years. Harold was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter S. Blowers of 307 South River street. He was born in Austin March 5, 1906, attended school and reached the junior high grade although he had been retarded by a severe attack of scarlet fever six years ago. Rheumatism followed and then dropsy which closed his brief life at 6:30 Wednesday afternoon. He leaves father, mother, four brothers and two sisters.

Harold was a little hustler from the age of seven years. He was a little business man. He was faithful in all his work, true to every promise, had the love and respect of all with whom he came in contact and never caused a pang of sorrow to father and mother except when his spirit fled from earth as the shadows were lengthening Wednesday.

Harold was a Herald newsboy before he was seven years of age, perhaps before he was six. He was a little mite of a fellow, full of work and fun. He had a route over in the Fourth ward, although his home was on this side of the tracks. Sunshine and rain, heat of summer or zero of winter never kept him from his task. With his paper sack full of Heralds he plowed his way through the unbroken drifts of snow, calling in his cheery notes "Herald" at every door. All over the route there will be sorrow when they know that Harold is no more. For three years he carried the route and then he became a victim of the treacherous scarlet fever which left him suffering with rheumatism. He could no longer carry the Heralds so he helped in the delivery work on the Laundry auto, as he was to remain outdoors as much as possible. Sometimes that little fellow carried with him close to $100 in the laundry collections of a trip. He was accurate to a cent in all his dealings. His record is short but it carries the characteristics of a true man.

The funeral will be from his late home at 1:30 Saturday with funeral services at the Methodist church at 2 o'clock.

(Austin Herald Austin, MN)

[Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: 8 Aug 1856
d: 13 Feb 1915

Friends of Barney Farrington were startled and saddened at the news of his death, which occurred this morning at 4:30 at his home on north Elm. A week ago Mr. Farrington came home from his work with a hard cold, which developed into pneumonia which resulted in his death.

Mr. Farrington was born in Columbus, WI., fifty-eight years ago. He has lived in Austin for the past thirty-five years. For twelve years he was employed at the Electrical Light plant and then began working for the Packing Plant in the electrical department. He was then transferred into the piping department where he was working when taken ill. Mr. Farrington was married to Ms. Sarah Gorman, Feb. 11, 1878. The marriage took place in Austin, though the parties were living in Grand Meadow at the time.

Besides the wife, one daughter, Mabel, age 17 years survives. Also a niece, Margaret Hedman, who has made her home in the family for years. Mr. Farrington also leaves 3 sisters, all residing in Blue Earth. Mr. Farrington was a member of the Woodman Lodge. He was a man of strict integrity, faithful to his work, kind in his home, a good citizen, and a cheery companion and friend. The funeral will be held from St. Augustine's Church Monday morning.

(Austin Daily Herald, Saturday, 02/13/1915)

[Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: 8 April 1884
d: 10 Feb. 1960

Mrs. Jennie Mae Ramsey passed away unexpectedly early Wednesday morning, February 10, 1960, at her home at 110 S. St. Paul Street, of a heart condition.

Jennie Mae Hopfe was born on April 8, 1884 in Vinton, Benton county, Iowa. Her parents were Charles L. and Katie R. (Fogle) Hopfe. In early childhood the family moved Hartley, Iowa where she attended school. On December 19, 1906 she was united in marriage to Andrew Ramsey. This union was blessed by one son, Donald H. of Beatrice, Nebraska. They resided on an Iowa farm near Hartley, until the spring of 1913, then moved to Mower County on a farm near Lansing, Minnesota. In the fall of 1921, they moved to Austin to reside.

She accepted the Lord as her personal savior in early childhood and became a member of the Methodist Church. She was president of the Ladies Aid for 9 years, during the time the parsonage on the corner of Kenwood and Maple St. was purchased, she also had the joy of helping to burn the mortgage on the parsonage during her time in office. She was also a member of the Relief Corps.

Five years ago she became inactive in public service for the Lord as she was confined to her home because of an accident, but there is no retirement for a Christian and the many who came to comfort and cheer her went away cheered and comforted themselves by the perfume of her beautiful Christian character.

Her love and joy and peace was shared with everyone with whom she came in contact.

She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband Andy, one son, Donald; two grandchildren, Kathleen Ann and William Donald Ramsey, Rapid City, South Dakota; four brothers, Albert, William E. and LeRoy; nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. One brother Elmer, preceded her in death.

Funeral services were held at the Methodist Church Friday at 2:00 p.m. Burial was in Oakland Cemetery.

[Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

15 April 1883 -- 17 October 1961

Andrew Ramsey was born April 15, 1883 in Londonderry, Ireland, to James and Mary (Porter) Ramsey. He was born in Londonderry, Ireland, on April 15, 1883 and died in Beatrice, Nebraska on October 17, 1961.

He passed away at the hospital in Beatrice, Nebraska, October 17, 1961, at the age of 78 years, 6 months and 2 days.

With his parents, he, and his twin brother William, came to the United States as a small child and settled in Grundy County, Iowa: later moving to O'Brien County near Sutherland where he grew to manhood. He attended school near Sutherland and Primgar, Iowa.

On December 19, 1906, he was united in marriage Jennie Mae Hopfe at Sheldon, Iowa. To this union was born one son, Donald. Mr. Ramsey farmed near Hartley, Iowa until March 1, 1913, when he and his family moved to a farm near Lansing, Minnesota where he resided until coming to Austin in 1920. The family house for 40 years was at 110 S. St. Paul St. until the death of Mrs. Ramsey in Feb., 1960.

In August 1960 Mr. Ramsey went with his son Donald and wife Mildred in Beatrice, Nebraska. After moving to Austin, Mr. Ramsey was engaged in the Real Estate business until moving to Nebraska.

Besides his son Mr. Ramsey is survived by Kathleen Ann and William Donald Ramsey, Rapid City, South Dakota; two brothers, John of Brookings, South Dakota and Henry of Primghar, Iowa; one sister, Mrs. Mary Burns, Hartley, Iowa.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 21, at 2:00p.m., at the Jordan Mortuary, Pastor LeVoy Randall of the Church of Christ officiating. He was laid to rest beside his wife in Oakland Cemetery with the following friends and relatives as bearers, Richard Knauer, Donald Ames, Robert Clark, Orval Hopfe, Kenneth Hopfe, Robert Hopfe.

[Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Aug. 19, 1878
d: Jul. 5, 1961

Effa Ann Houston was the daughter of David M. and Anliza (Randall) Huston; born at Wells, Minnesota on August 19, 1879 and passed away in a nursing home in Grandmeadow, Minnesota, on July 5, 1961; at the age of 82 years 10 months and 16 days.

On October 16, 1895 she married Elmer E. Kelley. This marriage was blessed by nine children, two of them are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kelley lived in the Grand Meadow community for 43 years, where they were active in the Methodist Church.

Funeral services were July 8 at Methodist Church in Grand Meadow. Mrs. Kelley was laid to rest beside her husband at Grand Meadow Cemetery.

Surviving children are: Mrs. Thomas Clark (Eva), Marshalltown, Iowa; Mrs. Clarence Carter (Lenore), Grand Meadow; Mrs. Ruth Ramsey, Rapid City, South Dakota; Clair Kelley, Pontiac, Michigan; Elsworth Kelley, Walker, Minnesota; Chester Kelley, Detroit, Michigan; Glenn Kelley, Robbinsdale, Minnesota. She is also survived by one sister, Ruth Reynolds, Inglewood, Calif.; one Brother, Morris Huston, Fort Dodge, Iowa; by 19 grandchildren; and by 30 great-grandchildren also survive.

Mrs. Kelley was kind, considerate of all whom she had contact. It disturbed her greatly to hear anyone speak unkindly of another. With ready wit and fractious personality she always found something kind to say. Always she went the second mile to assist anyone in need. Friends and relatives alike will miss her quiet charm and understanding ways.

Mrs. Kelley spent the spent the past several years in Mrs. Fawver's Rest Home. Since June 1, she has been cared for at the Jacobs Rest Home.

The many floral tributes and memorials attest to the esteem in which she was held. Services were conducted by Rev. Stanley Sargent. Bearers were Kenneth Ostegard, Lyle Farmer, Edward Voorhees, Maynard Heffern, Dick Heffern, Earnest Tune. Music was by ladies of the church.

God in his infinite mercy has called Mrs. Kelley to her heavenly home where peace and joyous reunion await her.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Feb. 4, 1870
d: Dec. 27, 1954

Elmer E. Kelley 84, died Monday afternoon at St. Olaf Hospital. He was a resident of Grand Meadow.

Elmer is the son of Washington Wayne Kelley and Mary Catherine Schermerhorn Kelley. He was born in Wells, Minnesota on February 4, 1870 and died in Austin at the hospital on December 27, 1954; but lived in Grandmeadow, Minnesota, at the time of his death.

Surviving are his wife and several children, Mrs. T.A.W. Clark (Eva), Marshalltown, Iowa; Mrs. Clarence Carter (Lenore), Grand Meadow; Clair Kelley, Pontiac, Michigan; E.D. Kelley, Walker Minnesota; Mrs. Donald Ramsey (Ruth) Austin, Minnesota; Chester Kelley, Detroit, Michigan; Glenn Kelley, Minneapolis.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 1:00 p.m. at the Methodist Church, Grand Meadow the Rev. Howard Clark officiating. Interment will be in Grand Meadow Cemetery. Friends may call at the Burrington Funeral Home from 6:00 p.m. today until noon Friday.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: 4 Dec 1916
d: 10 Dec 1993

LYLE, MINNESOTA -- Mildred I. Parmenter, 77, a Lyle homemaker, died Friday (Dec. 10, 1993) at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.

Mildred I. Lundene was born Dec. 4, 1916, in Rudd Township, Floyd County, Iowa, grew up in the area and graduated from high school in Otranto, Iowa. On Nov. 1, 1948, she married Russell C. Parmenter in Northfield, Minn.

She was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lyle and was active in its women's organizations.

Survivors include two sons, Stephen of Loretto, Minn., and Douglas of Austin; four grandchildren; and five sisters, Adeline Crane of Lake Mills, Iowa, Clarice Anderson of Barneveld, Wis., Violet (Mrs. Carl) Rowe of Owatonna, Dorothy Anderson of Austin and Betty (Mrs. Rueben) Kroneman of Grafton, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her husband, a son and a brother.

The funeral will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church here, with the Rev. Harold Luecke officiating. Burial will be in Enterprise Cemetery in Rose Creek.

Friends may call from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin and an hour before the service at the church.

[Austin Daily Herald]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Patricia M. Stern, age 62, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Thursday, January 8, 2009 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

Patricia was born on September 15, 1946 to Earnest and Ruth (Weber) Nelson in Paynesville, Minnesota, where she grew up and attended school.

She married Chester Johnson and had two sons. They made their home in Philadelphia until 1967. After her divorce in 1971, Patricia returned to Paynesville and had a daughter.

In 1972 she received the Presidential Sport Award in bowling, signed by President Richard Nixon. She earned her accounting degree in 1976 at St. Cloud Business College. She married Steven Stern on March 27, 1982. A member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin, she enjoyed knitting, crocheting, drawing, reading, gardening and writing poetry. She resided at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home from 2008 until the present.

Survivors include two sons: James H. Johnson and Shawn Johnson, both of Austin; one daughter: Stephany (Keith) Oldenkamp, Austin, Minn.; four grandchildren: Anthony Rosette-Seykora, Nicholas, Garret and Charlie Oldenkamp, all of Austin; brother, James (Barbara) Nelson, Carver, Minn.; sister: Diane Kohanek, Faribault, Minn.; brothers-in-law: Wayne (Tari) Stern, Colorado Springs, Colo.; Dennis Stern, Colorado Springs, Colo.; James Johnson, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; mother-in-law: Dorothy Stern: Austin; sister-in-law: Diane Nelson, Paynesville, Minn. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Ruth Nelson; husband, Steven Stern; a brother, John Nelson; sister, Ruthie (James) Johnson; father-in-law, Roland Stern.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, January 12, 2009 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday at Worlein Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery in the spring.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, January 11, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

James D. "Jim" Nystrom, age 79, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Thursday, January 8, 2009 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota, due to complications of a heart attack.

Jim was born on October 27, 1929 in Red Wing, Minnesota, to Jonas and Marian (Dahl) Nystrom. He graduated from Red Wing High School in 1947 and attended River Falls State College for two years. On February 3, 1951 he was united in marriage to Shirley Ann “Polly” Schmidt at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Red Wing. Jim served in the United States Army as a military policeman from 1951 to 1953 during the Korean War.

Jim was a trooper in the Minnesota State Patrol from Nov. 1, 1957 to Jan. 1, 1988, when he retired with the rank of sergeant. He drove the Austin school bus for many years, and many times he drove the children of his earlier passengers. On the last day of school he would take them all to A & W for a treat.

Jim was an avid sports fan, especially the Minnesota Twins, Vikings and University of Minnesota Gophers.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Polly "Sweetie Pie" Nystrom, Austin; two sons: John (Mary) Nystrom, Austin, Minn., Tom (Sue) Nystrom, Mason City, Iowa; daughter: Jean (Randy) Lenoch, Newnan, Ga.; five grandchildren: Angela (Paul) Bernier, Brigitte Nystrom (fiance Bobby DeBell), Kirsten Nystrom, Andrew Lenoch, Casey Lenoch; great grandson, Christopher.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Marian Nystrom; two grandchildren, Christine Elizabeth Nystrom and Abby Jean Lenoch.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2009 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. There will be a 2:30 p.m. wake service on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 1 to 3 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post No. 91 and VFW Post No. 1216 and representation by the Minnesota State Highway Patrol.

The casketbearers will be Jim's grandchildren and great-grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the American Heart Association.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, January 11, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

William Lee “Bill” Jones, age 78, of Grand Meadow, Mower county, Minnesota, died at the Northeast Clinic in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota on Thursday, January 8, 2009.

Bill was born March 27, 1930 in Northfield, Minn. to Floyd L. and Olive (Sargeant) Jones. He attended Austin Schools through the 9th grade and on July 3, 1965 he was united in marriage to Judy Babbitt at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Sargeant.

Bill worked for many years as a livestock hauler, for Minnesota Implement in Grand Meadow and later was a self-employed livestock buyer and also provided waste management for area farmers. Bill had a wonderful sense of humor, he enjoyed reading, playing cards, visiting with friends, his horses, goats and his beloved dog, Misty.

He is survived by his wife, Judy, of Grand Meadow; two sons: Jon Paul Jones (fiancee Jackie Renton), Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, and Jared (Cheryl) Jones, Spring Valley, Minn.; siblings: Betty (Orville) Jensen, Preston, Minn., Jim (Ivadene) Jones, Loveland, Colo., Melvin (Irene) Jones, Cohassat, Minn., Carol (Gary) Lingbeck, Rochester, Minn.; brother-in-law: Roy Schmidt, Grand Meadow; and 32 nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for William will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at the United Church in Grand Meadow with the Rev. Karen Ashton officiating. Burial will be in the Grand Meadow Cemetery. Friends may call at the United Church in Grand Meadow from 5-8 p.m. on Monday and one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com, January 11, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Lucille Agnes Kiefer, 89, of Taopi, Mower county, Minnesota, died on January 13, 2009 at Adams Health Care Center in Adams.

She was born May 19, 1919 in Lemsford, Saskatchewan, Canada to Herbert and Martha (Baker) Struwe. Lucille was married to Floyd P. Kiefer on July 15, 1936 at the Sacred Heart Church in Adams. They resided in Taopi and she was a member of the Sacred Heart Church, WCCW and the Taopi Women's Club. Lucille enjoyed baking and cooking and spending time with her grandchildren.

Lucille is survived by her sons, Clifford (Liz) Kiefer, Taopi, Minn., Chuck (Mary Ann) Kiefer, Taopi, Herb (Ruth) Kiefer, Taopi, Lester (Alice) Kiefer, Taopi, Earl (Sue) Kiefer, Taopi; 19 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; sister-in-laws, Beverly Struwe, Grand Meadow, Norma Kiefer, Taopi.

She was preceded in death by her husband; daughter, Bonnie; grandson Tom Kiefer; sisters, Leona, Ethel, Florence and Mary and a brother, Wayne.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, Jan. 16, 2009 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father James Seitz officiating. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Taopi. Visitation will be at Adams Funeral Home on Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and for one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Casketbearers will be her grandsons, Gene, Ray, Dan, Curt, Ted, Tony, Wayne, Daryl and Brad Kiefer.

[Austin Daily Herald]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Suzanne Hundorf, age 58, died on January 12, 2009 in Dodge Center, Minnesota.

Suzanne Marie Stowell was born on February 15, 1950 in Mauston, Wisconsin, to Robert and Beverly (Walterman) Stowell. She grew up in Wisconsin and Austin. She moved to Rochester in 1990 and operated a day care. She enjoyed casinos, sewing, bingo, collecting Coke Cola items and loved cats.

She is survived by a son, Richard Dawson, Rochester; daughter, Peggy (Randy) Grant, Dodge Center; six grandchildren; two brothers, Ron (Sue) Stowell, Colorado and Jerry (Karen) Stowell, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The funeral service for Suzanne M. Hundorf will be Friday, January 16, 2009 at 1 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes' Chapel. A visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Harriet Irene (Distad) Thompson, 88, died on Jan. 9, 2009, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Harriet Irene Helleckson was born on Sept. 21, 1920, the daughter of Henry and Inger (Ulefoss) Helleckson in Wanamingo, Minn. She attended two years at Augsburg College in Minneapolis and one year at Minneapolis Business College. Harriet was a police officer in Austin and a secretary from 1957-1967 in the Austin school system and Mower County Veterans Office. She and husband Paul Thompson owned the Viking House Café in Hayfield, Minn.

Harriet married Robert Distad in Hayfield on Dec. 27, 1941. They moved to Austin in 1956. Robert died in 1961. She married Paul Thompson in December of 1967, and moved back to Hayfield. He passed away in 1996.

Harriet is survived by Robert (Linda) Distad, Minneapolis; Thomas (Shirley) Distad, Reno, Nev.; Richard (Linda) Distad, St. Paul; John (Sonja) Distad, Federal Way, Wash.; Dorothy (Phil) Haukom, Mazeppa, Minn.; Sandra (Richard) Burkhardt, Yuma, Ariz.; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; two brothers and two sisters.

The memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 19, 2009, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield with the Reverend Paul Hauschild officiating. Spring inurnment will be in Fairview Cemetery in Hayfield. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home in Hayfield and one hour before the service at Trinity Lutheran Church on Monday.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Charles Lerum “Chuck” Nelson, age 78, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died of cancer on January 13, 2009 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

He was born on November 10, 1930 to Sanford and Edna Mae (Lerum) Nelson in Blooming Prairie. After graduating from Blooming Prairie High School in 1949, Chuck enlisted in the US Army. He served his country from 1950 until 1953 during the Korean War. Following his discharge, he attended Moler Barber School in Minneapolis. Chuck married Doris Ann Benson on Oct. 13, 1957 at First United Methodist Church in Austin. He served the Austin community as a Master Barber for 55 years. After a visit to Chuck’s, you left with a great haircut and a great story.

A member of Grace Lutheran Church, VFW Post 1216, American Legion Post 91, the Eagles, the Masonic Lodge and the Moose Lodge, he enjoyed hunting, camping and fishing with his friends and late brother-in-law, Merle Rasmussen. Each fall he looked forward to lutefisk dinners at area churches all over Southeastern Minnesota. Chuck was fortunate to have many friends in the Austin community and knew people everywhere he went. His family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care given by the staff of Austin Medical Center, Hospice, St. Mark’s Lutheran Home and the angels at Primrose Retirement Community.

Survivors include his wife, Doris, Austin; daughter, Leah (Tim) Nordquist, Eden Prairie; son, James (Debbie) Nelson, Austin; grandson, Thomas Charles Nordquist; uncle, Tommy (Marian) Lerum, Austin; sisters, Nina Mae Rogers, Blooming Prairie; Marge Bush, Palm Springs, Calif.; brothers, Jimmie (Lucille) Nelson, Bagley; Eric Nelson, Honolulu, Hawaii; sister-in-law, Eleanor Rasmussen; many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and their spouses.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Paul; brother, Ralph; brother-in-law, Merle Rasmussen and sister-in-law, Virginia Krueger.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Jeff Forbes officiating. Visitation is at Worlein Funeral Home, Austin, from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16, 2008 and at the church one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Interment will be in May. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Grace Lutheran Church or donors’ preference. Worlein Funeral Home in Austin is in charge of arrangements.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Virgil Owen Turbenson, age 82, of Austin, mower county, Minnesota, died on January 13, 2009 at Season's Hospice in Rochester.

Virgil was born Jan. 30, 1926 in Bloomfield Township, Fillmore County, Minnesota, to Arnold and Nora (Johnson) Turbenson. He married Shirley Weeks and then later Margaret Seleskie. Virgil served as a staff sargeant in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956 during the Korean War. He was also a retired employee of Hormel Foods, having worked there for 33 years.

Virgil loved fishing, his flower gardens and traveling. He most loved his grandchildren and being at family gatherings.

Survivors include his son, David (Donna) McLaughlin; grandchildren, Angela (Jeff) Thomas, Michelle McLaughlin, Kellie McLaughlin; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Howard (Joyce) Turbenson, all of Spring Valley.

He is preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Shirley; second wife, Margaret; brother, Harold.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 16, 2009 at Mayer Funeral Home with Todd Portinga officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service on Friday.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Charles C. MacLachlan, 54, of Alma, Arkansas died unexpectedly on December 31, 2008.

Charles was born on April 28, 1954 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, to Charles and Lois (Barker) MacLachlan. He attended school at Queen of Angels and Rose Creek. Charles loved motorcycling, boating and visiting with many friends. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, son and friend to many. He was dedicated to the transportation industry for 40 years.

He is survived by two sons, Jeremy (Cindy) Young, Roland, Okla. and Joshua (Jessica) MacLachlan, Alma Ark.; four grandchildren, Emily Young, Taylor MacLachlan, Blake Gierke and Caleb Gierke; two sisters, Bobbie (Howard) Greenlee, Rose Creek, and Charlene (Steve) Burton, Walker, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles W. MacLachlan; mother, Lois M. (Barker) MacLachlan; brother, Denny MacLachlan; two nephews, Chris Greenlee and Jesse Burton.

His body will be cremated per his wishes. A memorial will be held at a later date.

[Original obituary posted on www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Lois Louise Stanley, age 78, beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and proud owner of Gabby passed away January 6, 2009.

Lois was born June 4, 1930 in East St. Louis, Illinois. She attended East St. Louis High School and graduated “early” in 1947. She met Richard “Dick” Stanley the same year and they married in 1951. After starting their life together in Belleville, Illinois, they began a family and moved west to Phoenix in 1957. Lois was employed by Del Webb Corporation as an Administrative Assistant. In 1966, due to Dick’s promotion to the corporate offices of Hormel, the family moved to Austin.

Her job as a mother was always her first priority, but she did continue her career as an Executive Secretary to the President of the First National Bank of Austin. In 1992 Lois and Dick retired and moved west again to Rio Verde, Arizona, where Lois enjoyed golf, tennis and bridge. Among Lois’s many accomplishments, she held executive office in two organizations. When she lived in Phoenix, Lois was involved with the Jaydettes while Dick was involved with the Jaycees. In Rio Verde Lois was involved with the PEO.

Lois is survived by many friends and relatives. Her husband Richard “Dick” Stanley; sister, Patsy Meyer; daughters, Randa Stanley, Kim Urick and Connie Gregory; granddaughters, Amanda Brewster, Katie Johnson and Rhianna Barstad; great-grandchildren, Grace Lewis, Nell Lewis and Mason “Lucky” Brewster and dog, Gabby.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, at the Rio Verde Community Church, Rio Verde, Arizona. In Lieu of flowers Donations can be made to the Boys and Girls Club Rich, 14605 North Del Cambre Avenue, Fountain Hills, Arizona 85268.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 13, 2009 - www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Wayne H. Cooper, age 92, of Sartell, Minnesota, died on January 11, 2009 at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Wayne was born Sept. 4, 1916 in Montour, Iowa to Clarence and Fern (Keller) Cooper. He graduated from Elkton High School, in Elkton, Minnesota.

Wayne married Margaret O. Kraft on Oct. 27, 1940 at St. John’s Church in Elkton. He was employed at John Deere Co. in Waterloo, Iowa from 1941-1943. Wayne served in the US Navy from November 1943 to November 1945. He was then employed by the Hormel Co. from 1946 to 1979. Wayne was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret Cooper, Sartell, Minn.; daughter, Marlene Hanson, Clearwater, Minn.; two granddaughters, Cynthia (Martin) Bogart, Rogers, Minn., Wendy (Mark) Neu, Rogers; five great-grandchildren, Ryan, Jennifer and Kyle Bogart, Mitchell and Brittany Neu; brothers and sisters, Dale Cooper, Rochester, Minn., Terry Cooper, Frost Free, Fla., Daryl Cooper, Dover, N.H., Venita Ballinger, New Prague, Minn.; Bernice Rabine, Rochester, Minn.; Lettie Budahn, Rochester, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Raymond Hanson; sister, Evelyn Robinson and brother, Lyall Cooper.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009 at 11 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, Minn. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Burial will be in North Star Cemetery, St. Cloud, Minn. Funeral arrangements were made by Benson Funeral Home in St. Cloud. Pallbearers will be Marty Bogart, Ryan Bogart, Kyle Bogart, Mark Neu and Mitchell Neu. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 13, 2009 - www.austindailyherald.com]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Aug. 1, 1971
d: May 16, 1987

Saturday, May 16, 1987

AHS sophomores die in fiery car crash

A progressive dinner that a group of friends had planned became a memorial prayer service after two of the teenagers died in a fiery car crash in Freeborn County this weekend.

Killed in Saturday nights crash were Mark L. Murphy, 16 and John C. Wiseman, 15 both sophomores at Austin High School.

Authorities said the car swerved from Freeborn County RD 35 about 2 miles southwest of Blooming Prairie, traveled 275 feet in the north ditch until it struck a retaining wall along a bridge and became airborne. It returned to the ground, striking a field driveway and became airborne again, flipping on to its top, then back on its wheels before bursting into flames.

Murphy and Wiseman had been at the rear of a three-car caravan from Austin to visit friends on a farm near Blooming Praitie. Their five friends in the first two cars said the flames were too intense to approach the wreckage.

Freeborn County authorities said today the accident reconstruction phase of the investigation is still in progress.

Grieving friends of the two held a memorial prayer service Sunday evening at St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Both boys were active in high school music activities, Wiesman, a violist, and Murphy a percussionist. Wiseman was also active in Boy Scouts, two merit badges short of the Eagel Scout award.

Mark L. Murphy is survived by his parents, John and Judith Murphy, Austin; a brother, Matthew Murphy, Austin; a sister and brother-in-law Mildred Renee Murphy and Alfrado Jimenez, Raleigh, NC.; grandparents, Milred Schradle, Austin; Willard Murphy, Guckeen, Minn; aunts; uncles.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am. Wednesday at St Augustine Catholic Church, Rev. Charles Quinn officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. A wake service will be held at 7:30 pm. Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 3 to 9 pm Tuesday and 8 to 9:30 am on Wednesday. The family prefers memorials.

John C Wiseman is survived by his parents Paul J. and Jean Wiseman, Austin Rt 2; a sister Joy Wiseman, Austin; two brothers, Jeremy and Jeffery Wiseman, Austin; grandmothers, Mrs. Patricia Wiseman, Austin, and Mrs. Tena Kvam, Glenville; a great-great-aunt, Mrs. Zoe Pickett, Austin; aunts; uncles; cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30pm Wednesday at St Olaf Lutheran Church, Rev. Glenn Nycklemoe and Rev. Robert Toso officiating. Interment will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at Mayer Funeral Home from 3 to 9 pm Tuesday and 8:30 to 11 am Wednesday and at the church one hour before the service. The family prefers memorials.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Mar. 18, 1971
d: May 16, 1987

Saturday, May 16, 1987

AHS sophomore's die in fiery car crash

A progressive dinner that a group of friends had planned became a memorial prayer service after two of the teenagers died in a fiery car crash in Freeborn County this weekend.

Killed in Saturday nights crash were Mark L. Murphy, 16 and John C. Wiseman, 15 both sophomore's at Austin High School.

Authorities said the car swerved from Freeborn County RD 35 about 2 miles southwest of Blooming Prairie, traveled 275 feet in the north ditch until it struck a retaining wall along a bridge and became airborne. It returned to the ground, striking a field driveway and became airborne again, flipping on to its top, then back on its wheels before bursting into flames.

Murphy and Wiseman had been at the rear of a three-car caravan from Austin to visit friends on a farm near Blooming Praitie. Their five friends in the first two cars said the flames were too intense to approach the wreckage.

Freeborn County authorities said today the accident reconstruction phase of the investigation is still in progress.

Grieving friends of the two held a memorial prayer service Sunday evening at St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Both boys were active in high school music activities, Wiesman, a violist, and Murphy a percussionist. Wiseman was also active in Boy Scouts, two merit badges short of the Eagel Scout award.

Mark L. Murphy is survived by his parents, John and Judith Murphy, Austin; a brother, Matthew Murphy, Austin; a sister and brother-in-law Mildred Renee Murphy and Alfrado Jimenez, Raleigh, NC.; grandparents, Milred Schradle, Austin; Willard Murphy, Guckeen, Minn; aunts; uncles.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am. Wednesday at St Augustine Catholic Church, Rev. Charles Quinn officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. A wake service will be held at 7:30 pm. Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 3 to 9 pm Tuesday and 8 to 9:30 am on Wednesday. The family prefers memorials.

John C Wiseman is survived by his parents Paul J. and Jean Wiseman, Austin Rt 2; a sister Joy Wiseman, Austin; two brothers, Jeremy and Jeffery Wiseman, Austin; grandmothers, Mrs. Patricia Wiseman, Austin, and Mrs. Tena Kvam, Glenville; a great-great-aunt, Mrs. Zoe Pickett, Austin; aunts; uncles; cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30pm Wednesday at St Olaf Lutheran Church, Rev. Glenn Nycklemoe and Rev. Robert Toso officiating. Interment will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at Mayer Funeral Home from 3 to 9 pm Tuesday and 8:30 to 11 am Wednesday and at the church one hour before the service.

The family prefers memorials.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

b: Aug. 15, 1904
d: May 28, 1982

Ethel Sarah Levy was born August 15, 1904, in Iowa, the daughter of John and Carrie Grant. She graduated from Austin High School in 1921 and Austin High School Normal Training in 1922. Ethel was united in marriage with Edward J. Levy in 1922, at Lyle, Minn. Edward and Ethel were engaged in farming and at the time of her death resided at Austin Rt. 5.

On May 28, 1982, Ethel died at Naeve Hospital, Albert Lea, Minn. Preceding her in death were one son; two grandsons; her parents; two brothers; one sister.Survivors include her husband, Edward; four sons, Edward Levy Jr., Brownsdale, John Levy, Algona, Iowa, Leonard Levy, Hampton, Iowa, Delmar Levy, Owatonna; two daughters, Mrs. Harold (Marian) Lobbins, New London, Minn., Mrs. David (Marilyn) Tebay, Austin: 19 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren.

[Interment was in Grandview Cemetery in Austin]

[Austin Herald, Sat., May 29, 1982]

Submitted to MNGenWeb by K. Pike, Jan. 2009

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Lillian Marion Dolan, age 77, and formerly of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on January 14, 2009 at St. Therese Home in New Hope.

Lillian was born on August 26, 1931, in Austin, to John and Theresa (Svejkovsky) Chapek.

On Dec. 1, 1950 she was united in marriage to Robert Thomas Dolan. He preceded her in death on June 13, 1981. Lillian worked 25 years as a secretary and administrator at the Austin Hormel Foods Plant and Corporate Offices. She loved gardening, cooking, and outdoor activities such as fishing, biking and camping. Lillian also enjoyed having large family dinners at her home on Sunday afternoons. She was an avid Minnesota Twins fan. Lillian was very proud of her only grandchild, Katie and enjoyed spending time with her.

Survivors include two sons, Robert T. (Maureen) Dolan, Plymouth, Minn., Daniel P. Dolan, Amsterdam, Holland; granddaughter, Katie Dolan, Decorah, Iowa; sister, Alice Hofner, Austin; brother, Donald (Arlene) Chapek, Austin.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, John and Theresa Chapek; brother, Elmer Chapek; sister, Violet Chapek.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at Trondhjem Lutheran Church with the Reverend Bob Berthold officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

The Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Joseph John Gentle, age 72, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on January 6, 2009.

He graduated in 1954 at St. Augustine's High School in Austin, attended the University of Minnesota studying electrical engineering and served in the U.S. Army. He was an engineering lab technician at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids, retiring in 1993. He had the distinction of working on the communications for the Apollo Moon Landing. His great love was ham radio. Using his five watts, he contacted more than 100 countries worldwide using only non-gain wire antennas.

He is survived by his sisters, Mary Gentle and Margaret Paynter; brother, Michael Gentle; niece, Beth Burvant; nephews, Christian Erickson, Nicholas Gentle and Greg Gentle; grand-nieces, Evelyn Burvant, Lucy Burvant and Audrey Burvant.

A memorial service will be held in the spring at Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Lloyd Hammer, age 81, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on January 14, 2009 at Primrose Retirement Community in Austin.

Lloyd E. Hammer was born Sept. 16, 1927 to John L. and Inger M. (Aberg) Hammer in Cresco, Iowa. He grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School where he played football, baseball and basketball. He then went to Luther College in Decorah, Iowa where he played baseball. On Aug. 13, 1949 Lloyd married Yvonne Hildreth in Austin. They lived for a short time in Decorah until Lloyd graduated. They returned to Austin where Lloyd began work for the Hormel Co. for 34 years. Lloyd was a charter member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin where he served as the first treasurer, taught Sunday school and participated at the groundbreaking for Our Savior’s.

Lloyd was on the board of Hormel Employees Credit Union and was active in scouting. A fan of all sports, he also loved fishing. Lloyd was a good husband and father and was liked by all who knew him.

Surviving are his wife, Yvonne, Austin; daughter, Suzanne (John L.) Larson, Lafayette, Ind.; son, Brian (Joanna) Hammer, Acworth, Ga.; three grandchildren, Anna (Kevin) Nolan, Olaf (Kate) Larson, Rachael (Justin) Marty; great-grandson, Kevin John Nolan; nieces and nephews.

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

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may call at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday and at the church one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Myrna Marie Bissen, age 85, of Stacyville, Mitchell county, Iowa died on January 13, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota.

Myrna Elliott was born to Mary Isabelle (Elgas) and Perry Arbor Elliott on April 8, 1923 in New Haven, Iowa. After attending school in Stacyville she married Fred Bissen on June 23, 1942. They made their home on the Bissen family farm near Johnsburg, Minn. Myrna was a homemaker and a wonderful mother to their twelve children. She enjoyed sewing, quilt making, oil painting and gardening. Her love of flowers brought joy to many as she surrounded their retirement home in Stacyville with beautiful baskets and beds of flowers. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Myrna was a member of the Christian Mothers, Catholic Aid Association and the Legion Auxiliary. She was also a Gold Star Mother.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Fred; four sons, Jim (Becky) Bissen, Rose Creek, Minnesota, Dale (Sandy) Bissen, Adams, Minnesota, Russ (Mary) Bissen, Larry (Barb) Bissen both of Stacyville; seven daughters, Joyce (Ed) Kreidermacher, Altura, Minnesota, June Bissen, Jupiter, Florida, Shirley Bissen (Peter Lukasiewicz), St. Louis, Missouri, Elly Bissen (Curt Anderson), Santa Barbara, Calif., Emily (Dean) Kiefer, Adams, Minnesota, Rosalie (Bob) Kipling, Omaha, Nebraska, Mary Bissen, Windermere, Florida; 34 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; siblings: Orian Brown, Genoa City, Wisconsin, Doris Douty, Carol Vogel and Dean (Virginia) Elliott all of Adams, John (Theresa) Elliott, Altura, Minnesota. and Isabelle Mullenbach, Johnsburg.

Myrna was preceded in death by her son, Howard who died in Vietnam; sister, Pauline Blaser; granddaughter, Annette, daughter of Jim and Becky Bissen.

The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Johnsburg. Burial will be at St. John’s Cemetery. Wake service will be at the St. John’s Church Hall on Friday, Jan. 16, from 4 to 8 p.m. with the rosary at 4:30 p.m. Adams Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

©2009 MNGenWeb