MOWER COUNTY GENEALOGY: Obituaries

 

Mower County Obituaries
Part 118

 

 

Chad Edward Nelson

1972-2009

Chad Edward Nelson, 37, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Friday morning, November 6, 2009, from injuries received in an auto accident in Pine County.

He was born on January 26, 1972, in Austin, Minnesota, the son of Kirk and Debra (Pack) Nelson. He attended school in Austin, graduating from Austin High School in 1990. He continued his education at the University of Minnesota, where he received a Bachelor’s in Psychology in 1998. He was awarded a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2004 from Argosy University in Minneapolis.

On Dec. 23, 2005, he was united in marriage to Marsha Skalsky on St. Lucia Island in the West Indies. The couple made their home in Minneapolis where Chad established his own private practice working with the State of Minnesota court system in Forensic Psychology. He loved spending time with his wife, Marsha, and their three dogs. Chad also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, going four wheeling; snow boarding and building radio controlled cars, as well as traveling.

Survivors include his wife, Marsha Nelson of Minneapolis; his mother, Debra (Jeff) Torvick of Sarasota, Fla.; his father, Kirk Nelson of Visalia, Calif.; maternal grandmother, Marilyn Pack and paternal grandmother, Jean Nelson, both of Austin; half-sisters, Ali Nelson and Katie Nelson, both of California and Brooke Winters of Saratoga Springs, N.Y.; his father and mother-in-law, Clinton and Mary Skalsky of Waite Park, Minn. and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Tyler Winters; paternal grandfather, John Nelson and maternal grandfather, Everett Pack.

Memorial services will be held at noon, Wednesday, November 11, 2009, at Cornerstone Assembly of God Church in Austin with the Rev. David Simerson officiating. Interment will follow the service at Grandview Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 10 and from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesday at the Cornerstone Assembly of God Church.

The Worlein Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

[Austin Daily Herald online, Mon., Nov. 9, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Arthur Wildeman

1930-2009

Arthur Wildeman, 79, died Wednesday morning, November 4, 2009, at his home in Sargeant, Minnesota.

Arthur Wildeman was born on June 14, 1930 in Boyden, Iowa, the son of Arie and Jennie (Roelofs) Wildeman. He was united in marriage to Mildred Taylor on Sept. 5, 1948, in Sargeant. Mildred died on June 18, 2007. Art farmed in the Sargeant area for many years. He served on the Sargeant Township Board, Sargeant Co-op Board and was a member of the Zion United Methodist Church in Sargeant. Art enjoyed gardening, hunting and fishing.

Arthur is survived by six sons, Bill (Kathy) Wildeman, Racine, Minn., Bob (Mary) Wildeman, Sargeant, Minn., Russell (Sally) Wildeman, Hayfield, Minn., Roger (Laurie) Wildeman, Stewartville, Minn., Brian (Becki) Wildeman, Red Wing, Minn., Bradley (Mari) Wildeman, Gretna, Neb.; 20 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister, Adri (Willie) Funfar, Nora Springs, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mildred; and one sister.

The funeral service for Arthur Wildeman will be at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009 at Zion United Methodist Church in Sargeant, Minn. with the Rev. Jon Schultz officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Brownsdale, Minn. Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009 at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 501 Second St. NW in Hayfield, and one hour before the service at the church on Sunday.

[Austin Daily Herald, Nov. 6, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Patricia Joan (nee Holzer) Landherr

1950-2009

Patricia Joan (Holzer) Landherr, 59, died Tuesday Nov. 3, 2009 at the Adams Health Care Center surrounded by her loving family.

Pat was born March 30, 1950 in Winona, Minnesota, to William and Mary Holzer. She grew up in Stewartville and graduated from Stewartville High School. She then attended Winona State University. On March 17, 1979 (St. Patrick’s Day) Pat married Steve Landherr in Rose Creek. They had three children, Scott, Mary, and Erin. Pat was an accountant for more than 35 years. She worked at Astrup Drug and loved her job. The Astrup family treated her very well. She was diagnosed with kidney cancer this past April.

Pat’s family and friends held a benefit for her on June 20. Pat was very overwhelmed by the love and support everyone had for her. She was a very active member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek. She was a secretary treasurer, reader, and Eucharistic minister. Pat was an excellent cook. She was very talented with arts and crafts. She loved reading, watching the food network and HGTV. She collected thimbles from her many trips. She enjoyed ceramics, cross stitch, cuddling with her grand “kitties,” and had recently developed a love for going to the casino. She was a loving wife, mother, and above all, a lady. She had tremendous strength and courage. She loved taking care of other people.

Pat is survived by her husband Steve Landherr, Rose Creek, Minn.; son Scott (Amanda) Landherr, Wells, Minn.; daughters, Mary (Michael) Peck, Austin, Minn., Erin (Jimmy Krulish) Landherr, Austin, Minn.; brothers, Mike (Cheryl) Holzer, Wykoff, Minn., Bill (Pam) Holzer, Hayfield, Minn., Steve (Liz) Holzer, St. Paul, Minn.; sister, Nancy (Donald) Powers, Paynesville, Minn.; parents, Bill and Mary Holzer, Stewartville, Minn.; and many nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her mother and father in-law; brother in-law; nephew; grandparents; and aunts and uncles.

A wake will be held Nov. 5, 2009 at Mayer Funeral Homer from 4 to 7 p.m. The funeral will be at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 6, 2009. A lunch will follow at the hall.

Honorary Casket Bearers will be: Amanda Albers, Michael Peck, and Jimmy Krulish.

Casket Bearers will be: Scott Landherr, Steve Holzer, Mike Holzer, Bill Holzer, Richard Holzer, Jon Holzer, Josh Landherr, Mike Nelsen.

[Austin Daily Herald, Nov. 6, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

LeVerne Lloyd Madson

1926-2009

LeVerne Lloyd Madson, 82, of Austin, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009 at his home.

He was born Nov. 19, 1926 to John H. and Bessie (Herr) Madson in Freeborn County, Minn. LeVerne enlisted in the Army in February, 1946. He was stationed in Korea for a year and was discharged in August, 1947. He returned to Hormel Foods and married Beryl Johnson on June 5, 1949 at Dexter Methodist Church. They made their home in Austin, where in 1966 he began a 25-year career with Weyerhauser. He enjoyed farming. They moved to Lyle and returned to Austin where they have lived since 1995. A man who liked his coffee, LeVerne also enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, reading Westerns and listening to gospel and country music. He loved his family.

Survivors include his wife, Beryl Madson of Austin; children, Kathy (Tom) Stolzenberg of Lake City, Lloyd (Laurel) Madson of Austin, Sandy (Darol) Heard of Austin, Laurie Rosas (Jim Sievers) of Apple Valley, Alan (Kim) Madson of Florida; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Rose (Wayne) Helgeson of Lyle; Betty (Jack) Koopal of Johnston, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Nov. 9, 2009 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Visitation is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday at Worlein Funeral Home. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery, Austin with military rites by VFW Post 1216. The family prefers memorials to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Building Fund.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

[Austin Daily Herald, Nov. 6, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Alice Mae (nee Ankeny) Leif

1922-2009

Alice Mae (Ankeny) Leif, 87, of Austin, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009 at the Austin Medical Center.

Alice Mae was born July 31, 1922 in Winnebago, Minnesota, to LeRoy and Effie (DuBois) Ankeny. On Oct. 9, 1943 she was united in marriage to Claude P. "Bud" Leif at the Fort Snelling Chapel. He preceded her in death on April 9, 1987.

Alice Mae worked with her husband and son as secretary of Leif Real Estate and Leif Tax Service.

Alice Mae loved her family. She enjoyed sharing a meal. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren kept her on the go. She followed their sports, plays and concerts. Alice Mae was pleased to welcome 11 exchange students and her children's friends. She was always ready to go bowling, golfing, dancing, for cards or a trip. Alice Mae was always ready to help with projects or child care. She was a loving person with a quick smile or a warm hug.

Survivors include her 11 children, Jerome (Betty) Leif, Hartland, Wis., Georgia (Gene) LaVallie, Eagan, Paul (Deb) Leif, Austin, Keith (Christine) Leif, Austin, Fr. Gregory Leif, Caledonia, Lawrence Leif, Bloomington, Joseph (Christal) Leif, White Bear Lake, Donald (Kelly) Leif, Sacramento, Calif., Daniel (Roxane) Leif, Superior, Wis., Mary (Edward) Huber, Bloomington, Steven (Marnie) Leif, Austin; 26 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Marion Mentz, Austin; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Mary Frances Cummings, Austin, Gene (Elaine) Leif, Austin, Alice (Klimek) Leif, Rochester, Mimi Ankeny, Austin, Beulah Ankeny, Stewartville; lifelong friend, Genevieve Reagan, Austin.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Ethel; brothers, Elwin "Bud", Fenton, Stan.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009 at St. Edward's Catholic Church with Father Gregory Leif and Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 7:30 p.m. wake service on Friday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

[Austin Daily Herald, Nov. 6, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Rachel Irene (nee Hanson) Murphy

1914-2009

Rachel Irene Murphy, 95, formerly of Austin, Minnesota and Rio Rancho, New Mexico, died Friday, Nov. 6, 2009 at Sunrise Cottages in Rochester, Minnesota.

She was born on February. 18, 1914 in Minot, North Dakota to Samuel and Marie (Berge) Hanson. In 1918 she went to live with her Aunt in Austin after her mother had passed away. She graduated from Austin High School in 1931. In 1935 she married Marion J. Murphy (MJ). Together they owned and operated Murphy Oil Co. in Austin for 35 years until 1970 when they moved to Rio Rancho, N.M. Marion died in 2002 and in 2004 Rachel moved with her daughter to Rochester. In 2005, after having a stroke, she moved to Sunrise Cottages in Rochester.

Rachel was always very active in her children’s lives. When they were young, she was involved in Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts. She loved to play bridge and was active member of the D.P.O.E. Does. She is survived by her daughter, Jana Edwards, Rochester, Minn.; son, Jack Murphy, Austin; grandchildren, Karianne (Jake) Johnson, Clarion, Iowa, Chad (Nicole) Schoenfelder, Rochester, Minn.; six great-grandchildren; and her nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Marion; son James Murphy; one brother; and five sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009 at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel in Austin with the Rev. Carol Shaffer officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary for one hour before the service. Interment will be in the Grandview Cemetery.

Casket Bearers will be Chad Schoenfelder, Bob Hanson, David Hanson, Larry Murphy, Rick Murphy, and Connor Johnson.

[Austin Daily Herald online, Mon., Nov. 9, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Myrtle V. (nee Smith) Hanson

1925-2009

Myrtle V. “Myrt” Hanson, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Friday, November 6, 2009 at Grand Meadow Healthcare Center in Grand Meadow, Minnesota.

Myrt was born June 12, 1925 in Sibley County, Minnesota, to Leonard and Edith (Karver) Smith. She attended country school in the rural Chatfield area. She attended Rochester High School for three years and graduated from Columbia Heights High School in Minneapolis. On Nov. 23, 1944, she was united in marriage to Mervin Hanson at Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester, Minnesota.

Myrt was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church where she belonged to the Ladies Aid. She was a member of a birthday club and Modern Home Eccers. She was a Brownie and Cub Scout leader. She enjoyed cake decorating and quilting, the cabin on Lake Mazaska, dancing, traveling, camping, family get-togthers, and reading to her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Mervin Hanson, Austin; her five children, Gretchen (Harlan) Eliason, Sacred Heart, Minn., Colleen (Dennis) Charlson, Mason City, Iowa, Orin (Ann) Hanson, Brooklyn Park, Minn., Neal Hanson, Scandia, Minn., and Gene (Angie) Hanson, Hanover, Minn.; five grandchildren, Kari Eliason, Kirsten Eliason, Aaron Charlson, Mitchell Engstrom, and Nicholas Engstrom; great-grandson, Ethan Eliason; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Raymond and Elwin; and her sister Agnes.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church with Vicar Brian Krueger officiating. Interment will be in Bear Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. and at the church for one hour before the service on Tuesday. Organist will be Robert Goetz and the vocalists will be Kenneth and Mary Swenson.

Casket Bearers will be Mitchell Engstrom, Nicholas Engstrom, Kari Eliason, Kirsten Eliason, Bruce Olson, and Kenneth Smith. An Honorary Bearer will be Aaron Charlson. Memorials are preferred to Holy Cross Lutheran Church or Austin Medical Center Foundation.

[Austin Daily Herald online, Mon., Nov. 9, 2009]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

John E. "Bud" Perry

1928-2009

John E. “Bud” Perry, 81, of Austin died Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester. He was born Aug. 10, 1928 in Austin to Del and Lurenne (Strommer) Perry. Bud graduated from Austin High School and was married to Carol Lee on June 18, 1950 in Austin. He served in the US Air Force during the Korean War. John was a barber and had worked with his father at Perry’s Barbershop and later worked for the Hormel Foods Corporation. He was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church, the Elks Club, Austin Eagles and the American Legion.

Bud liked spending time with Scott and Kaye and their family and he also enjoyed having coffee with his friends at Johnny's, pheasant hunting and playing cards, boating and bowling.

John is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Kaye Perry, Austin; grandsons, Adam Perry, Austin, Bryan Perry, Austin; granddaughter, Jenae Perry, Austin; brother and sister-in-law, Duane and Darlene (Doo) Perry, Lansing, Minn.; Scott’s brother, Bob Penney, Hew Hope, Minn.; sisters-in-law, Beulah Halland, Milaca, Minn., Betty Lee, St. Cloud, Minn., Phyllis Lee, Big Lake, Minn.; Gene and Alice Brennan, Austin; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Carol.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Glenn L. Monson officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin with Austin Post #91 American Legion in charge of military rites. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. and for one hour before the service at the church on Friday.

Casket Bearers will be Dan Halland, Jeff Watkins, Steve Perry, Dave Smith, John Deyo and Jim Anderson. Honorary Casket Bearer will be Bill Schubert.

Austin Daily Herald, 11-11-09

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Dean Francis Rolfson

1930-2009

Dean Francis Rolfson, 79, of Austin died Sunday evening, Nov. 8, 2009, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center.

He was born Aug. 22, 1930 to Earl and Angela (Guiney) Rolfson in Mower County where he grew up and attended District 42 country school. After attending Austin High School, he worked on the family farm until he got married and went to work for Sheedy Dairy. He worked there for 18 years. He was circulation manager here in Austin for the St. Paul Pioneer Press for 21 years. Interested in agriculture, Dean helped many neighbors farm. When he was able, he helped many friends and neighbors with transportation to doctor appointments and general errands. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed horse shows and trips to Branson. He moved to Comforcare in August.

Survivors include his children, Kathy (Lawrence) Pieper of Rose Creek, Vicky Williamson of Atlanta, Georgia, Larry (Gloria) Rolfson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Sherry Suess of Minneapolis, Troy (Jackie) Rolfson of Lakeland, Fla., Shelly Riach of Lakeville, Jayne Gibson of Austin; 18 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; special friend, Gloria White of Mapleview; a sister-in-law, Ordella Rolfson of Austin; and one brother.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; one brother, Kenneth; and special friend, Jim. Memorial services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel. The family will greet friends following the service at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald, 11-11-09

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Loreen (nee Wilsie) Littlefield

1926-2009

Loreen Littlefield, 83, a resident of Sunrise Cottages Assisted Living in Rochester and formerly of Grand Meadow, died Monday Nov. 9, 2009 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.

Loreen was born Sept. 7, 1926 in Grand Meadow to Lynn Wilsie and Opal (Cary) Wilsie. She attended and graduated from Grand Meadow High School and was united in marriage to Hugh Littlefield on Aug. 10, 1946 and they were later divorced.

Loreen worked for various places over the years in Grand Meadow, Stewartville and Rochester, retiring from St Marys Hospital in Rochester. She was an avid sports fan, enjoying the Minnesota Twins and Vikings and especially Grand Meadow athletics. She also enjoyed her puzzle books.

Loreen is survived by two sons, Mike (Nancy) Littlefield of Rochester, Minn. and Jay (Lori) Littlefield of Byron, Minn; seven grandchildren, Jeremy (Laura) Littlefield, Jennifer (Timothy) Wilson, Lisa Littlefield, Shane (Becky) Littlefield, Devon (Paul) Dudley, Josh Littlefield and Aaron Littlefield; two step-grandchildren, Melissa (Jason) Carau and Pam (Craig) Felton; and one sister, Marilyn King of Austin.

Loreen was preceded in death by her parents; a special friend Elwin Ottjes; and a brother-in-law, Paul King. Funeral services for Loreen C. Littlefield will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow with the Rev. Ann Siverling of the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be at the Grand Meadow Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

Austin Daily Herald, 11-11-09

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Roger Frederick Schwartz

1943-2009

Roger Frederick Schwartz, 66, of Rose Creek died Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Roger was born July 28, 1943 in Austin to Melvin and Marcella (Mentel) Schwartz. On April 4, 1964, he was united in marriage to Judith Marie Mayzlik at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Austin.

Roger loved trucking and working with his sons on the family farm. He enjoyed going to NASCAR races, trips on his Harley, the History Channel, and most of all spending time with his family — which he was very proud of — friends, going out for ice cream with the grandchildren and traveling in the truck across the country with Judy.

Survivors include his wife, Judith Schwartz, Rose Creek; children, David Schwartz (special friend Mary), Rose Creek, Lynelle (Shawn) Elward, Hayfield, Steven (Sharon) Schwartz, Burnsville, Gregg (Michelle) Schwartz, Austin; 10 grandchildren, Miranda and Alan Schwartz, Merissa Schwartz, Anthony Dunn, Erica, Katie and Zachary Elward, Taylar, Autumn and Eli Schwartz; mother, Marcella Schwartz, Austin; siblings, Marietta (Stephen) Frein, Plainview, Carol (Jack) Kiefer, Rose Creek; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, Melvin Schwartz; father-in-law, Russell Mayzlik; mother-in-law, Ruth (Thompson) Mayzlik.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father James Seitz officiating. There will be a 5 p.m. wake service on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in St. Peter's Cemetery.

The honorary casket bearers will be Roger's grandchildren. The casket bearers will be Gregg Schwartz, Eric Hollerud, Jack Kiefer, Dale Nelson, Jerry Heard and Dave Hanson. adh 11-10-9

Austin Daily Herald, 11-11-09

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Fred Ernest Bjork

1931-2009

Fred Ernest Bjork, 79, passed away Nov. 3, 2009 at Baptist Hospital, Jacksonville, Arkansas.

Fred was born March 19, 1931 in the Sargeant, Mower county, Minnesota area, to Fred E. Sr. and Mabel Bjork. Fred was a US Air Force retiree. He retired in Jacksonville.

He is survived by his five children, David, Johnny, Kenneth, Charlotte Bjork of Jacksonville, Ark. and Shirley Horsfall of Nashville, Tenn; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Joseph and Delano Bjork of Embarrass, Minn. and Roger Bjork of Decorah, Iowa; four sisters, Betsy Retterath, Adams, Minn., Fern Bily, Montgomery, Minn., Mae Ashton and Ruth Schmidt of Austin.

He is preceded in death by his wife Lois; son, Ernest; parents, Fred and Mabel Bjork; brothers, William, Merle, and Eugene Bjork; sisters, Daisy Madson, Laura Edge and Elaine Kirkpatrick.

He will be missed by all his family and friends.

A funeral was held Friday, Nov. 6, 2009 at Moore’s Funeral Home with military service by Jacksonville Air Force Base Honor Guard. 11-10-9 adh

Austin Daily Herald, 11-11-09

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Howard Dennis Haney

1921-2009

Howard Dennis Haney, 88, of Austin died Sunday, November 8, 2009 at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota.

Howard was born July 24, 1921 in Winterset, Iowa, to Dennis and Atha (Greenfield) Haney. He graduated from Patterson High School in 1939 and from the American Institute of Business of Des Moines in 1941.

In August 1941, during World War II, he enlisted in the Coast Guard, serving off the coast of Washington and California until March of 1946. After the war, he returned to Iowa and then moved to California where he met his wife, Cora Heard. He and Cora were united in marriage on October 26, 1946 at the Presbyterian Church in Monrovia, Calif. In 1947 their daughter Joan was born. Howard and Cora returned to Iowa in April of 1948. In 1952, they moved to Austin where their son Dennis was born. In 1954, their daughter Jean was born.

Howard worked for Austin Ready Mix and then Gamble Robinson in the 1950’s delivering produce to area stores. On one trip to New Richland, he noticed a man waving at each passing car. Motorists, not realizing the man’s plight, all waved back and continued on their way until Howard observed his predicament. He stopped and with the aid of a crow-bar, belts and chains, he freed the man from the corn picker. The man said he could not have braced himself a minute longer.

In 1959, Howard started at the Austin High School in maintenance until retiring in March of 1984. Howard enjoyed sports, especially the Minnesota Twins, traveling, music, singing and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of Crane Chapel for more than 55 years. He was also a member of the Hayfield Amerian Legion.

Survivors included his daughters and sons-in-law, Joan and Dennis Bissen, Austin, Jean and Norbert Eggert, Waltham, Minn.; grandchildren, Brent (Sara) Bissen, Minneapolis, Emily Eggert, Apple Valley, Minn., Betsy Bissen, St. Paul, Minn., Amy Eggert, Bergen, Norway; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Marion (Don) Ulven, Buffalo, Mo., Bill Heard, Buffalo, Mo., Jerry (Sue) Heard, Austin, Margaret Kirchner, Dexter, Minn., Dorothy (George) Drinkall, Phillipsburg, Mo., Charlotte Tucker, Burnet, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Cora in 2005; his son, Dennis; two brothers and one sister.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Crane Community Chapel with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. and at the church on Thursday for one hour before the service. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Hayfield American Legion post #330 in charge of military rites.

Organist will be Jan Hansen and soloist will be Erin Schumacher.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

William G. Carlson

1939-2009

William G. Carlson, age 70, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at Heritage Manor Health Care Center in Chisholm, Minnesota.

He was born on August 18, 1939 in Austin, to Edward G. and Lorraine (Goodwin) Carlson. He graduated with the Class of 1956 from Austin High School. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in business, he was drafted into the Vietnam War. After the service, he returned to Minnesota and worked for Hormel Foods Corp. in sales in northern Minnesota. After several years, he decided to move to California, where he worked in sales. Bill later returned to Minnesota, and because of health reasons, he retired and moved to Chisholm.

To keep himself busy, he would walk year round, putting on thousands of miles over the years. He also became involved with the Chisholm Bluestreak basketball program doing game statistics, pre-game analysis and even produced the Chisholm Bluestreaks Boys Basketball Booklet, complete with statistics, pictures, history, highlights and more.

Survivors include Virginia Christensen of Stewartville, Minnesota, and several cousins.

A memorial service will be held in Chisholm, Minnesota at the Rupp Funeral Home Thursday, November 12, 2009. A graveside service will be held in Austin at Oakwood Cemetery in the spring.

Austin Daily Herald, 11-12-2009

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Jane Meadowcroft Lang

1848-1902

LANG

At the home on Oakland Avenue, Wednesday evening, July 20, 1902, of consumption, Mrs. Henry Lang, aged 54 years. Jane Meadowcroft was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, March 12, 1848. When four years old she came with her parents to Wisconsin and in 1862 moved to London township, Freeborn county. She was married to Mr. Lang on May 10, 1866, and they lived in London until two years ago, when they built and moved into Austin.

Deceased has been in poor health for some time. She was a devoted member of the Presbyterian church for many years. The husband and eight children are, Mary, Mrs. Kate Watkins, Edith, George, Mrs. Maggie Watkins, Bennie, Maud and Mattie.

Funeral services were held at the residence Saturday afternoon, Rev. B.H. Kroese officiating. Interment in Oakwood. Deceased leaves an aged mother, three brothers and a sister, William, of Austin; George, of London; James and Mrs. Wm. Goslee of London.

[Mower County Transcript, Wed., 8-06-1902, page 3, col. 5]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Alzina Brownell

1827-1902

DIED.

Brownell.

At the home of her daughter in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Saturday, August 2, 1902, of chronic liver toruble, Mrs. Alzina, widow of Moses H. Brownell, aged 75 years and four days. Her maiden name was Beardsley.

She was a native of New York state and was married near Watertown, N.Y. Her husband who died May 12, 1901, at Varco, was a veteran of the war. They moved from Reedsburg, Wis., to Balaton, Minnesota about 17 years ago and came to Austin township over three years ago. The widow has since resided here but went on a visit to her daughter several months ago and was taken ill and died there.

Funeral services were held at the home of her daughter, north of Enterprise schoolhouse, yesterday morning, Rev. C.D. Belden of Austin, officiating. Interment at Varco.

Deceased was for many years an earnest Christian woman and was respected by all who knew her. Six children survive: Mrs. Charles Brownell and Mrs. Alvin Brownell of Varco; Danford B. Brownell of Watertown, N.Y.; Mrs. Alice Aurandt of Marshall, Minnesota; Mrs. Henrietta Hunter and Mrs. May Etta Carlin of Baraboo, Wisconsin.

Among the relatives from other points present at the funeral were: E.L. Hunter and wife and Mrs. May Carlin of Baraboo; and Mrs. W.C. Gifford of Harvard, Illinois, a granddaughter of deceased.

[Mower County Transcript, Wed., 8-06-1902, page 3, col. 5 ]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Peter Majerus

ca. 1828-1902

DEAD MAN FOUND

Last Wednesday morning tramps reported to the section men of the Milwaukee Road that there was the body of a dead man under the bridge across Rose Creek just north of Varco.

Search proved the report true. The body was identified as that of Peter Majerus, an old resident, who has been living for some time with his daughter, Mrs. John Meyer, in Lyle township, south of M.E. Varco's

The last seen of him was Sunday afternoon, when he left to walk over, as was supposed, to a neighbor's. It is thought that he attemped to cross the bridge in the night and missed his step, as he was 74 years of age. Funeral services were held Friday morning in the Catholic church in Rose Creek. Interment in the Catholic cemetery there.

[Mower County Transcript, Wed., 8-06-1902, page 3, col. 4 ]

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Madeline Veronica (nee Murphy) Ashton

1927-2003

Madeline Veronica (Murphy) Ashton, 75

Madeline Veronica Ashton, age 75, of Austin, died early Friday morning, May 23, 2003, at her home after a long illness. She was surrounded by the loving care of her husband, William and her children, Colleen, James, Steven, William and Robert with the medical staff team support of Hospice Home Health Care.

Madeline was born June 18, 1927, in Cresco, Iowa, to Thomas J. and Goldie (Moore) Murphy. She attended grade school at Queen of Angels Catholic School and graduated from Austin High School in 1946. She was a former Miss Austin Pageant candidate.

Madeline was united in marriage to William J. Ashton at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. She was employed by the Hormel Company, in 1945, she worked in the Fresh Sausage, Dry Sausage and Flavor Seal Departments, retiring in 1987 after 41 years of service. She later became a Sales Associate for Lundberg's Women's Apparel for eight years through to 2001.

An active homemaker, Madeline enjoyed cooking, baking, cleaning house, knitting, crocheting, shopping, dancing with her partner of 53 years, husband, Bill, going to grandchildrens activities, traveling abroad with her husband and daughter, Colleen of Houston, Texas. She was a member of the "Sweet Adelines", ladies choral group, and a choir member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She also served in the Color Guard of the Elks Club Ladies Auxiliary of the Does.

She maintained her health and activity despite her 17 year struggle with her illness.

Survivors include her husband, William Ashton, Austin; daughter, Colleen Ashton (Tom) Mckinney, Houston, Texas; sons: James (Nanette) Ashton, Eagan, Steven (Deloris) Ashton, Blooming Prairie, William (Pamela) Ashton, Burnsville, Dr. Robert (Susan) Ashton, Eagan; 13 grandchildren; brother, Joseph T. (Audrey) Murphy, Austin; sister, Rosemary (Max) Crowley, Austin; aunt, Viola (Moore) Denelsbeck, Minnetonka; nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2003, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father William Becker and Father Paul Nelson officiating. There will be a 4 p.m. wake service and a 4:45 p.m. CCW rosary on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. and also from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Rochester.

The pianist will be Shirley Cahill, the cantor will be Erin Schumacher, the psalmist/soloist will be Colleen Ashton-McKinney, the lectors will be Ryan Ashton and Susan Ashton, the communion gift bearers will be Maria and Jenna Ashton, the family crucifix bearer will be Alec Ashton, Mary's altar flowers will be brought up by Torrie Ashton and the casket bearers will be Ryan Ashton, Tyler Ashton, Derek Ashton, Brennan Ashton, Ian Ashton and Justin Ashton.

Austin Daily Herald, May 26, 2003

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Frankee Rae-Mond Bakken

2003

Frankee Rae-Mond Bakken, infant daughter of Donald Raymond Bakken and Ultra Jane Jensen, died May 13, 2003, at Austin Medical Center.

Survivors include her parents, Donald Raymond Bakken and Ultra Jane Jensen of Austin; brothers, Donald A. Bakken II and Riley Xavier Gustad of Austin; sisters, Nature Ann Jensen and Katatrina Nico' le Bakken, all of Austin; paternal grandmother, Carole Bakken of Austin; maternal grandmother, Carol Ann Cafourek of Rochester; maternal grandfather, Ronald Cafourek of Osage, Iowa; paternal great-grandmother, Florence Ruth Bakken of Bloomington; maternal great-grandmothers, Gladys Westin of Hayfield and Ethel Cafourek of Austin; aunts and uncles, Amy and Greg Jordahl of Faribault; Ruth Bakken of Austin; Cameron Fairclough of Austin; Ronald Cafourek, II of Quincy, Calif.; Aimee Cafourek-Clark of Salt Lake City, Utah; Weston (Sherri) Cafourek of Republic, Mo.; many cousins.

She was preceded in death by paternal grandfather, Donald Alvin Bakken; paternal great-grandfather, Raymond Alvin Bakken; maternal great-grandfathers, Robert R. Cafourek, Elmer Cafourek and Sanford Westin; paternal great-grandparents, Frank C. and LaVell S. Hall; and cousin, Stephanie Nico' le Fairclough.

Private family services will be held at Worlein Funeral Home with Mr. Greg Jordahl officiating. Interment will be at a later date at Dawn Valley Memorial Gardens in Bloomington. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials.

Austin Daily Herald, May 16, 2003

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Marian Alice (Phillips)
BECKEL

1904-2003

Marian Alice Beckel, age 99, formerly of Austin, died Thursday, May 8, 2003, at the Excelsior Nursing Home in Excelsior, Minn.

Marian was born March 2, 1904, to William and Inez (Rockwell) Phillips on the family farm near Brownsdale. She graduated from Austin High School in 1922. She attended Normal College and was a school teacher prior to her marriage.

In November 1924, she was united in marriage to Harvey J. Beckel. He preceded her in death on Sept. 12, 1973.

Marian was a charter member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church and was a member of the Rosary Society and the Milwaukee Women's Club.

Survivors include a daughter: Dorothy McMichael, Minnetonka, Minn.; a son: Leonard Beckel, Park Rapids, Minn.; nine grandchildren: Kevin McMichael, Fr. Steven McMichael, Bill (Barb) McMichael, Jeni (Brad) Lindberg, Greg Beckel, Jeff (Laurie) Beckel, Laura (Tom) Schmidt, Tony (Julie) Beckel, Andy (Paula) Beckel; 12 great-grandchildren: Patrick, John, Billy, Andy and Lauren McMichael, Jeremy Schurr, Scott and Michael Lindberg, Yaisa Banek, Nathan Beckel, Jack and Kate Beckel; three great-great-granddaughters: Mya and Lise Banek, Autumn Schurr; niece: Inez Vietor; nephew: Eugene "Boyen" Beckel.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother: Lyle; sisters: Lulu and Grace; husband: Harvey; son-in-law: Lloyd McMichael; daughter-in-law: Anne Beckel; granddaughter: Cheryl McMichael; two nephews and one niece.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2003, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with her grandson, Father Steven McMichael officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Sunday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

The casket bearers will be her grandsons: Kevin and Bill McMichael, Greg, Jeff, Tony and Andy Beckel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Austin Daily Herald, May 9, 2003

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John R. Best

1923-2003

John R. "Jack" Best, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at Baptist Hospital, Little Rock, Arkansas.

He was born Aug. 13, 1923, in Austin, to Milo and Florence (Capretz) Best.

He married Eloise Triggs. She died Aug. 20, 2002.

Survivors include daughters, Gail (Jay) Dorsett, Orange Park, Fla.; Lori (Mike) Rockers, Little Rock, Ark.; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Anair, Phoenix, Ariz.

Services: Will be held at a later date. Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, May 7, 2003

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Gary Lee Brenno

1948-2003

Gary Lee Brenno, of Ventura, Iowa, died of cancer on Thursday, May 8, 2003 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa.

Gary was born to Fordyce and Beverly Brenno on Feb. 28, 1948, in Spring Grove, Minn. and graduated from Austin High School in 1966. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor of civil engineering degree in June 1972 and became a registered professional engineer.

Gary began his professional career in Des Moines, Iowa as regional engineer for the Portland Cement Association of Skokie, Ill. He moved to Garner, Iowa, working with Yohn-Son Concrete and Construction as quality assurance engineer, and to Ventura, Iowa working for the Lehigh Portland Cement Company as technical services engineer. Gary worked for Cemstone Products Company, Mendota Heights, Minn. as vice president of quality control and returned to Iowa with the Lehigh Portland Cement Company.

Gary was a well respected member of the engineering community and a member of many professional associations including the American Society of Civil Engineers, the National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Concrete Institute and the Iowa and Minnesota Ready Mixed Concrete Associations. He was an eloquent and sought-after speaker for innumerable conferences and lectures on topics ranging from tilt-up and precast construction to the materials and practices necessary for quality concrete and ready-mix construction. His hallmarks were integrity and a devotion to excellence.

Gary had a lifelong love of debate, politics and sports and was active in the Burnsville Athletic Association as a coach for boys' baseball.

He is survived by his four children, Garrison Beau of Farmington, Minn.; Garron Dain of Minneapolis; and Garrett James and Kathryn Lee of Burnsville, Minn.; mother, Beverly of Rochester, Minn.; sister, Arlene (Virgil) Thofson of Hartland, Minn.; brother, Neil (Arlene) Brenno and Christine and Jason of St. Cloud, Minn. and fiance Allison Schwab of Mason City, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his father, Fordyce.

Gary's quick wit and agile mind were a constant delight to family members and countless friends. He will be profoundly missed.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13 at the Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 North Fourth St., Clear Lake, Iowa. Funeral Services are at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 14 at the Ventura United Methodist Church in Ventura, Iowa.

Austin Daily Herald, May 13, 2003

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Mary Angelina (nee Cocetti)
EADIE

1918-2003

Mary Angelina Eadie, 85, of Austin, formerly of Pueblo, Colo., died Sunday, May 11, 2003, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home, Austin.

She was born Jan. 28, 1918, to Alfredo and Maurizia (Carpetti) Cocetti in Walsenburg, Colo.

She lived in the Walsenburg area and graduated from Huerfano County High School in 1936.

On May 17, 1941, she married George Eadie, Jr. in Raton, N.M. They moved to Pueblo, Colo., where George died in October of 1986.

Mary received her associate degree in mental health at the University of Southern Colorado and worked for 20 years at Colorado State Hospital in Pueblo.

Survivors include her daughters, Elizabeth (James) Fritzle, Midland, Texas; Gloria (Terry) Gaber, Greeley, Colo.; Mary Alice (James) Troyer, Austin; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Margaret Blagg, Bedford, Texas; Jeanine Eadie, Pueblo, Colo.; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, three brothers and three sisters.

Visitation: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2003, at Adrian Comer Garden Chapel in Pueblo, Colo.

Service: 2 p.m. Friday at Holy Family Catholic Church in Pueblo, Colo. with the Rev. Ron Roche officiating.

Interment: Imperial Memorial Gardens.

Local arrangements by: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, May 14, 2003

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Charles G. Edwards

1929-2003

Charles G. Edwards, age 73, of Austin, died Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at the Good Samaritan Center in Albert Lea.

Charles was born Oct. 4, 1929, in Austin, to George and Dorothy (Buss) Edwards. He volunteered in the United States Army when he was just 16 years old and served for three years in Germany following the second World War.

On Aug. 12, 1950, he was united in marriage to Mary Jo Combs at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin.

Charles loved to hunt, fish and camp with his family and grandchildren. He fixed guns and loved to read and collect Western magazines.

Charles was a retired employee of Hormel Foods.

Survivors include his wife: Mary Jo Edwards, Austin; two sons: Tom (Mary) Edwards, Anchorage, Alaska; Mike Edwards, Austin; a daughter: Amy Wolcott, Austin; six grandchildren: Chris Edwards, Jay Edwards, Jenny Edwards, Megan Edwards, Ben Wolcott and Joanna Edwards; three great-grandchildren: Jarod Edwards, Ella Grace Edwards and Julia Lynn Edwards; a sister: June Poole, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one sister and one brother.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 1:30 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2003, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Richard Loomis officiating. There will be a 4 p.m. wake service on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. and also from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday. Military rites will be by American Legion Post #91.

The casket bearers will be Chris Edwards, Jay Edwards, Jim Scott, Curt Hansen, John Scheid and Jeff LeBarron.

Austin Daily Herald, May 8, 2003

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Gladys Irene (nee Nelson)
FORTNEY

1917-2003

Gladys Irene Fortney, 85, of LeRoy, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Wednesday, May 14, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester.

She was born July 11, 1917, in Lodi Township, to Julius Nelson and Ella (Erie) Nelson. She attended school at District 80 and was confirmed at west LeRoy Lutheran Church.

On April 16, 1938, she married Dale Alfred Fortney in Osage, Iowa. They farmed for many years in Mower, Howard, and Olmsted counties, then moved into Adams, where Gladys worked as a cleaning maid both in Adams and Austin. She later moved to Austin to help her husband build new homes. She did the interiors, sanding, and varnishing woodwork and cabinets. She later worked in restaurants as a waitress and fry cook for many years. The couple then bought a motor home and a jeep to tow along and traveled for 15 years. They spent the winters in the deserts hunting rocks and traveled all over Canada, Alaska, Mexico, and most of the USA. They even loaded the motor home on a ferry and drove through Newfoundland. Gladys lived the last few years in LeRoy, where she enjoyed her flowers and garden.

Survivors include her husband, Dale Fortney, LeRoy; nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Kenneth.

Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. today, May 16, 2003, at the funeral home and Saturday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the LeRoy Lutheran Church with the Rev. Tom Kolden officiating.

Interment: LeRoy Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Hindt-Hutchins Funeral Home, LeRoy.

Austin Daily Herald, May 16, 2003

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Genevieve H. (Blonigan)
FREIN

1916-2003

Genevieve H. Frein, 87, formerly of Austin, died Friday, May 9, 2003, at the Franklin Healthcare Center, Franklin.

She was born May 8, 1916, in Adams, to Frank and Gertrude Blonigan.

On Dec. 2, 1939, she married Fred Frein at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Adams. Genevieve was a homemaker.

Survivors include her son, Harold Frein, Clear Lake, Iowa; daughter, Carol Berge, Rochester; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, John Frein, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her husband on Nov. 8, 1977; son, James; one brother and five sisters.

Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. today, May 12, 2003, at the funeral home with a 6:30 p.m. wake service and Tuesday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Paul Nelson officiating. Casket bearers will be John Frein, Daniel Frein, Donald Fasbender, Jerome Gerber, Ed May and James Becvar.

Interment: Grandview Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, May 12, 2003

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Beatrice Marie (nee Mullenbach)
GOERGEN

1906-2003

Beatrice M. Goergen, 97 of Adams, Mower county, Minnesota, died Tuesday, May 27, 2003, at Adams Health Care Center.

Beatrice Marie (Mullenbach) Goergen was born May 12, 1906, at Rose Creek, the daughter of Nicholas and Alice (Weiniger) Mullenbach. She graduated from Rose Creek High School in 1924 and was married to Bernard Joseph Goergen on Feb. 20, 1935, at Rose Creek. The Goergen's farmed in the Rose Creek and Johnsburg areas until retiring and moving into Adams in the early 1980s. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Sacred Heart CCW. Beatrice was well known for her crocheting, quilting, cooking and baking.

She was preceded in death by two infant daughters, husband Bernard in 1993, a brother, three sisters and daughter-in-law Charlotte Goergen.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 4, 2003, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Gregory Leif officiating. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Adams. Visitation will be held at the Adams Funeral Home on Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m., with a 4:30 p.m. rosary service and a 7 p.m. prayer service, and on Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home.

Casket bearers: Keith Goergen, Tim Goergen, Jeff Goergen, Scott Goergen, Troy Goergen, Neal Goergen, Ryan Goergen.

She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law: Ronald and Darlene Goergen, Elgin; Richard Goergen, Owatonna; Lester and Caroline Goergen, Adams; John Goergen, Austin; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three nieces.

Austin Daily Herald, June 1, 2003

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Maxine Sylvia (Peterson)
GREGERSON

1933-2003

Memorial services for Maxine S. Gregerson will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2003, at the Bear Creek Lutheran Church with the Rev. Bernard Daiker officiating. There will be visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2003, at the Bear Creek Lutheran Church.

Maxine Sylvia Gregerson, age 70, of Grand Meadow, died Saturday, May 10, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester during the middle of a thunderstorm, the sound of which she particularly loved.

Maxine Sylvia (Peterson) Gregerson was born March 3, 1933, at her grandparents home in rural Worth County, Iowa to Herbert and Dena (Halvorson) Peterson. She was baptized and confirmed at Somber Lutheran Church near Lake Mills, Iowa. She graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1951.

Maxine married Robert Gregerson on May 31, 1952, at the First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. Maxine and Robert celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last May.

Throughout her life she had many jobs. She worked as a medical secretary, nurses aide and cook at the nursing home, and co-worker with her husband of the Amoco service station in Grand Meadow. Maxine was very proud to have served as church secretary and for 17 years the organist at both Bear Creek and Pleasant Valley Lutheran Churches.

She enjoyed music, baking, gardening, knitting, bird watching, sewing, the smell of clean sheets from the line, and listening to the Twins game. She was dedicated to her family, friends, and faith.

She is survived by seven children: Roberta and Lyle Julson of Grand Meadow, Ramona Anderson of Grand Meadow, Rebecca and Dan Clemens of Deer Harbor, Wash., Georgia and Jeff Ramaker of Lyle, Todd and Phyllis Gregerson of Grand Meadow, Jeanine and Scott Bly of Spring Valley, and Michelle and Greg Mettler of Cleveland, Minn.; 15 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; her mother, Dena Peterson of Emmons, Iowa; four sisters, Darlene and Duane Kittleson of Tower, Minn., Ardis and Dick Swenson of Thompson, Iowa, Delores and Jerry Goette of Bricelyn, Minn., and Diane and Erwin Naser of Joice, Iowa; two brothers, Richard and Sonia Peterson of Fridley, Minn. and Larry and Debbie Peterson of Emmons, Minn.; two sisters-in-law, Doris Gregerson and Bernie Gregerson, both of Albert Lea; many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband and father.

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

Austin Daily Herald, May 13, 2003

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Robert Arthur Griese Sr.

1931-2003

Robert Arthur Griese Sr., 71, formerly of Austin, died May 29, 2003, at his home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

He was born June 19, 1931, to Anna Griese in Austin. He grew up in Austin and joined the army at the age of 16 years. He married Charlene Williams on June 27, 1951, in Petaluma, Calif.

He is survived six sons: Robert Jr. (Roberta), Kirby (Jill), Kenneth (Sharon), Duane, Charles (Doreen), Jonathan (Cheryl), all of Wisconsin; 14 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Harlan (MaryJo) Griese, Austin; four sisters: Laurabel (William) Taster, Stewartville; Judith (Franklin) Goertz, Rochester; Janice (Roger) Jorgenson, Austin; Patricia (James) Crofoot, Oronoco; and best friend, Jeanette Henning, Milwaukee, Wis.

He was preceded in death by his mother, wife, two grandchildren and two brothers.

Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Funeral Home: Church and Chapel Funeral Home in New Berlin, Wis.

Austin Daily Herald, June 1, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Elsie Leora (Geyer)
Gunneson

1914-2003

Elsie Leora Gunneson, 89, of Dexter, Mower county, Minnesota, died Sunday, May 4, 2003, at Prairie Manor Nursing Home, Blooming Prairie.

She was born Jan. 17, 1914, to Paul and Bessie (Poage) Geyer in Kingsbury County, S.D.

She graduated from nurses training in 1937 and worked as a nurse at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin for 10 years.

On Jan. 1, 1942, she married Dalen Gunneson in Watertown, S.D.

Elsie was a homemaker, member of the First Baptist Church in Brownsdale and served as Sunday School superintendent; belonged to Mothers Club and to Red Cross Sewing.

Survivors include her husband, Dalen Gunneson, Dexter; daughter, Beverly (Roger) Powers, Blooming Prairie; son, Paul (Stormy) Gunneson, Hayfield; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers, Rudy Geyer, Kimball, S.D.; Ernie (Beverly) Geyer, Bancroft, S.D.; sister, Louise (LaVerne) Strub, Hobbs, N.M.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four sisters.

Visitation: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at the funeral home and Thursday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 2 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church in Brownsdale with Rev. Jerry Harris officiating.

Interment: Waltham Township Cemetery, rural Waltham.

Funeral Home: Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, Hayfield.

Austin Daily Herald, May 6, 2003

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Marilyn I. (Eftimof)
Hanson

1924-2003

Marilyn I. Hanson, 78, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Wednesday, May 14, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.

She was born Aug. 14, 1924, in Dawson, the daughter of Christ and Agnes (Bjorkman) Eftimof. She graduated from Minneapolis Central High School and was married to Quinten H. Hanson on Nov. 16, 1942, in Minneapolis. They resided in Minneapolis, Watertown and Apple Valley. Following her husband's death in 1981, she moved to New Mexico and returned to Minnesota to live in Austin in 1989. While in Austin she was employed at the deli at Elden's IGA until her retirement. She was a member of the Eagle's Auxiliary, the BPOE Does and the St. Olaf Hospital Auxiliary. She was a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed reading, sewing and playing bingo.

Survivors include children, Quint and Judy Hanson, Deerwood; Sheri and Erik Newhouse, Austin; Laurel (Lori) Hanson and Kelly Boerhave, Austin; Gary and Cindy Hanson, Bloomington; seven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Mavis and Earl Lindblom, Richfield; Phyllis and Nels (Okie) Okeson, Aitkin; nieces; nephews; special friend, Buelah Luthe, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her husband, son Daryl and brother Stan Eftimof.

Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2003, Monday at the funeral home and for one hour before the service on Tuesday.

Service: 10 a.m. Tuesday at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Kristin K. Wee officiating.

Interment: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, May 18, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

Freda Arlett (Sash)
Heikes

1905-2003

Freda Arlett Heikes, 96, of Mantorville, formerly of Lansing, died Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester.

She was born Oct. 20, 1906, to Arthur and Wilhelmina (Reifschneider) Sash in Laurel, Iowa.

On Nov. 28, 1928, she married Peter Heikes in Austin. They lived in the Waltham area before moving to Lansing, where they lived for 30 years. In December 1998, Freda moved to Mantorville.

She was homemaker and member of the First Baptist Church in Brownsdale.

Survivors include son, Howard Heikes, Mantorville; daughter, Dorothy (Chuck) Boettger, Watertown; daughter-in-law, Sandra Heikes, Austin; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on June 14, 2000; son, George Heikes; three sisters and one brother.

Visitation: 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, at the church.

Service: 2 p.m. Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Brownsdale with Rev. Jerry Harris officiating.

Interment: Waltham Township Cemetery, rural Waltham.

Funeral Home: Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, Brownsdale.

Austin Daily Herald, May 8, 2003

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Edwin R. Kuivala

1928-2003

Memorial services for Edwin "Ed" Kuivala will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, at his home, 53809 184th St. (Fourth Street SE), Austin. The Rev. James Mikkelson will officiate. Relatives and friends are invited.

Ed passed away Saturday, May 24, at his home with non cell lung cancer. He was 75.

He was born March 10, 1928, in Minneapolis, to Hjalmer Kuivala and Hilja Rasanen. He attended North High School in Minneapolis and business college for accounting. Ed served in World War II.

He married Ilona Aallo and had one daughter. They lived in Buffalo, Minn. In 1984, Ed married Nettie Schmidt.

Ed was a plumbing estimator and worked for Grinel and SPS for many years. When he retired in 1993, he and Nettie moved to Austin. Ed then worked for Pinkerton Security for Hormel until February 2003.

He is survived by his wife, Nettie; one daughter, April (Bill) Lindgren; stepsons, Steven B. (Cathy) Schmidt, Sunfish, Minn.; Fred (Pixie) Schmidt, Austin; Donald Schmidt, Austin; stepdaughters, Helen M. (Dick) Lee and Victoria Helland, Emmons, Minn.; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents.

Austin Daily Herald, May 28, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

 

 

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