Hilma A. Youngdahl, 92, of Austin died Friday, Jan. 17, 2003, at Austin Medical Center.

She was born Aug. 25, 1910, in Vernon Township, Dodge County, Minn., to Torgrim Torgrimson and Hannah (Bergum) Mohn. She was baptized and confirmed in Norwegian at West St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

She played piano by ear. She attended rural schools and graduated from Hayfield High School. She moved to Austin in the early 1930s and married Einar A. Youngdahl Nov. 11, 1934, in Osage, Iowa. Einar died

Feb. 18, 1939, and Hilma went to work at Hormel Foods Corp., retiring after 37 years. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church. She taught Sunday School, belonged to Fifty-Plus and circles. She enjoyed gardening, the ocean and mountains. She also enjoyed travel and visiting with family.

Survivors include: son, Duane (Beata) Youngdahl, Greensboro, N.C.; daughter, Joan (David) Olson, Sparta, Wis.; sisters, Luella Mohn, Austin; Esther (Milton) Eggert, Austin; Fern Borge, Omaha, Neb.; brothers, Harry (Ruth) Mohn, Vernon Township; Truman (JoAnn) Mohn, Minneapolis; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Joyce Nelson; an infant grandson; brothers, Alfred, Thomas, Elmer, Ferdy, Palmer, infant Harry; sisters, Geolina, Minnie, Martha, Gena, Josie.

Visitation: Monday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20, 2003, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Roberta Flood officiating.

Interment: West St. Olaf Cemetery, east of Hayfield.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 18, 2003

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Peter L. Crom, 79 of Dexter, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, at St. Gertrude's Health Center, Shakopee.

He was born Aug. 20, 1923, in Moritz, S.D. to John and Mary (Paulson) Crom. He attended schools in South Dakota.

On Nov. 15, 1950 he married Sylvia D. Griffin in Minneapolis. Employed by a local truck company, he retired in 1985. He enjoyed NASCAR, playing cards and his grandchildren.

Survivors include children, Sandy Newman, Shakopee; Allen (Cindy) Crom, Stewartville; Barb (Ray) Phillips, Shakopee; Mark (Linda) Crom, Albert Lea; Linda (Earl) Sams, Eagan; Laurie Buege, Rochester; Lisa Crom, Albert Lea; Diana Crom, Rochester; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother, George (Eileen) Crom, Watertown, S.D.; sister, Florence Patterson, Seattle, Wash.; friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sylvia; two brothers and two sisters.

Visitation: Two hours before the service.

Service: 2 p.m. memorial service Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003, at the funeral home with the Rev. Greg Strunk officiating.

Internment: Dexter Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home

Memorials: To United Methodist Church of Dexter.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 17, 2003

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Paul W. Erie, 77, of Ah Gwah Ching, Minn., formerly of Austin, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, in Park Rapids.

He was born Feb. 2, 1925, in Adams, to William and Mayme (Schmitz) Erie. He lived in Adams before moving to Austin.

Paul served in the United States Air Corps during World War II.

Survivors include nephew, Gary (Yvonne) Schmit, Austin; nieces, Carol (John) Koenigs, Rochester; Janet (Jack) Hoeft, Owatonna; great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Marion Schmit.

Visitation: Saturday at the funeral home for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003, at the funeral home with Father Paul Nelson officiating.

Interment: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Adams.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 17, 2003

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Donald D. Sletten, 79, of Austin, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, at the Albert Lea Medical Center.

He was born Dec. 30, 1923, in Kiester Township, to Albert and Alma (Nelson) Sletten.

He worked in the laundry department of Minnesota State Hospital in Faribault until 1966 when he moved to Austin and was employed at Cedar Valley Services.

Don enjoyed playing softball and bowling. In his later years he enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings on television.

Survivors include brothers, Kenneth (Iva) Sletten, Clarks Grove; Arnold (Elaine) Sletten, Brownsdale; Richard Sletten, Lake Mills, Iowa; sister, Helen Raviell, Chatfield; sister-in-law, Anna Mae Sletten, Twin Lakes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Earl and Henry Sletten; and sister, Violet Haugen.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the funeral home on Saturday.

Service: 1 p.m. memorial service Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003, at the funeral home with Pastor Ronald Barnett officiating.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 16, 2003

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Andrew M. Luna, Jr., 40, of Austin, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at Methodist Hospital, Rochester.

He was born Nov. 30, 1962, to Andrew Mike Luna Sr. and Lila Montanye in Albert Lea.

On April 23, 1983, he married Karen Newell in Mona, Iowa. They lived in Austin, Lyle and Dodge Center. Andrew was a welder for Pro Manufacturing. He enjoyed the outdoors, working with his hands and working with scrap iron.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Luna, Austin; daughters, Andrea, Krystel and Amanda, at home; parents, Lila Haakenson, Albert Lea; Andrew Luna, Sr., St. Paul; sister, Julie (Chris) Seavey, Albert Lea; brothers, Brian Luna, Minneapolis; Thomas Haakenson, Germany; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation: 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 2003, at the funeral home and Saturday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 11 a.m. Saturday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Dan Kahl officiating.

Interment: Woodbury Cemetery, Lyle.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Memorials: Preferred in lieu of flowers.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 15, 2003

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David Francis Reinartz, age 73, of Longville, Minn. and Bulverde, Texas, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at his home in Longville.

He was born Oct. 27, 1929, in Austin, Minn., the son of Francis and Ruth Reinartz. He grew up and attended school in Austin, Minn. Following high school he enlisted in the Army National Guard. On May 6, 1949, he married Elaine Otteson. They made their home in Austin where David worked for George A. Hormel Company for 23 years. During this time he was active in the Guards. He saw combat during the Korean Conflict and was awarded a field commission for his performance in the line of duty. He was reinstated to active duty in 1974, promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and stationed at Fort Meade, Md. Dave was transferred to Presidio of San Francisco, Calif. in 1980 where he retired as a Colonel in 1985. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.

He was a lifetime member of the Startzville, Texas VFW, a member of the Walker American Legion, and a member of the Longville Knights of Columbus. He was a past commander of the Jenkins, Minn. VFW, and the Pine River, Minn. American Legion. He was a member of St. Edwards Catholic Church in Longville, Minn. and St. Josephs Catholic Church in Honey Creek, Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Reinartz of Longville; four daughters, Ruth Perrault (George) of Emporia, Kan., Lu Ann Myers (Kenny) of Remer, Minn., Dawn Reinartz (Tim) of Blackduck, Minn., Jean Reinartz of Austin, Minn.; four sons, Michael Reinartz (Dorothy) of San Antonio, Texas, Patrick Reinartz (Beth) of Minnesota, Barry Reinartz (Cathy) of Chaska, Minn., Leslie Reinartz (Trudy) of Chaska, Minn.; 26 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Ann Hall (Jim) of Cypris, Calif.; five brothers, Allan Reinartz of Houston, Texas, John Reinartz (Pat) of Topeka, Kan., Larry Reinartz (Myrna) of Rochester, Minn., Jerry Reinartz (Linda) of Austin, Minn., Bill Reinartz (Judy) of Northfield, Minn.; father-in-law, Charlie Otteson of Staples, Minn.; sister-in-law, Clara Sanford of Austin, Minn.; brother-in-law, Lloyd Otteson (Teresa), Staples, Minn.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Dana Reinartz.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003, at 10 a.m. at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Longville, Minn. with Fr. Roland Antis officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday evening, Jan. 15, 2003, from 6 to 8 and one hour before services at St. Edwards Catholic Church. Thomas-Dennis Funeral Home of Longville is handling arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 15, 2003

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Richard L. Winkels, 52, of Austin, died Sunday, January 12, 2003, at his home of a heart attack.

He was born July 6, 1950, in Austin, to Raymond and Carrie (Crichton) Winkels.

He attended the Austin Public Schools and worked as a dishwasher and custodian for different businesses. Richard worked at St. Augustine's Bingo for 13 years and was a paper carrier for the Austin Daily Herald for many years.

He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church and also a member of the Austin Eagle's Club.

He loved fishing and riding his three wheeled bicycle in the local parades.

Survivors include his parents, Raymond and Carrie Winkels, Austin; daughters, Kathy and Mary; brothers: Raymond Winkels, Jr., Austin; Eugene (Joanne) Winkels, Surprise, Ariz.; Fred Winkels, Austin; sisters, Sandra (Lorimer) Nelson, Lyle; Cynthia (Rodney) Johnson, Austin; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. today, Jan. 14, 2003, at the funeral home and Wednesday for one hour before the service at the church.

Service: 1 p.m. Wednesday at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Paul Nelson officiating. The casket bearers will be Larry Burt, Mike Nelson, Jeremy Johnson, Scott Winkels, Daniel Kasel and David Burt.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 14, 2003

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Merlin J. Golberg, 76, of Austin, died Sunday, Jan. 12, 2003, at Our House Assisted Care Facility, Austin.

He was born March 14, 1926, in Rock Dell, to Norman and Myrtle (Himle) Golberg. He attended Rock Dell School.

He worked for the George A. Hormel Company until 1944 when he joined the United States Army. He served in the Army until 1946. He received many awards including a commendation award from Chiang Kai-Shek for serving with the Chinese Combat Command. After serving in the military, he returned to Austin where he went back to work for the Hormel Company.

On Nov. 22, 1947, he married Norma Swelland at Haugge Church in Kenyon. Merlin retired in 1973.

He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and V.F.W. Post #1216. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards and going dancing with his wife.

Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Lyle Cline, Austin; sons and daughter-in-law, Wayne and Deanna Golberg, Austin; Rodney Golberg, Austin; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sisters, LaVaine Krueger, Austin; Loretta Brown, Austin; brother and sister-in-law, Norval and Marie Golberg, Rock Dell; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife in 2002; and brother, Eugene.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. today, Jan. 14, 2003, at the funeral home and Wednesday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 1 p.m. Wednesday at Grace Lutheran Church with the Rev. Harold Deye officiating. Casket Bearers will be Willy Golberg, Randy Brown, Mark Golberg, David Hernke, Byron Lindaman and Rollie Oelchlager.

Interment: Grandview Cemetery in Austin with military rites by V.F.W. Post #1216.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 14, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Christina M. Mullenbach, 95, of Adams, died on Friday, January 10, 2003, at the Adams Health Care Center.

She was born Dec. 31, 1907, in Dell Rapids, S.D. to George and Mary (Krebsbach) Matheis. She attended school in South Dakota.

On Aug. 31, 1927, she married Vincent Mullenbach at St. Johns Catholic Church in Johnsburg. They farmed in Mower County until their retirement in 1978. Later that year they moved to Adams.

Christina was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Jolly Dozen Card Club, and was a past president and member of the Sacred Heart Council of Catholic Women. She was a local artist who enjoyed woodworking, crocheting, quilting, flowers, gardening and painting.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, James and Mary Lou Mullenbach, Tucson, Ariz.; Donald and Delores Mullenbach, Excelsior; Jerome and Mary Ann Mullenbach, Adams; Richard and Cheryl Mullenbach, Ball Ground, Ga.; Thomas Mullenbach, Adams; 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; sisters, Veronica Matheis, Adams; Marcella Schrandt, Winona; Genevieve Medgaarden, Austin; Cecilia Simon, Waterloo, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph and Velma Matheis, Adams; Herman and Evelyn Matheis, Waterloo, Iowa; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1985; grandson, Michael Mullenbach; sister, Dorothy Matheis; and daughters-in-law, Bernice and Ruth Mullenbach.

Visitation: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, with a 7 p.m. prayer service and Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home.

Service: 11 a.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. Gregory Leif officiating. Casket bearers will be Mark, Paul, Craig, Brian, Steve and Dan Mullenbach.

Interment: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Adams.

Funeral Home: Adams Funeral Home, Adams.

Memorials: To Sacred Heart Catholic School.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 14, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Arden M. Neus, 56, of Rochester, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at his home.

He was born July 21, 1946, in Austin, to Bernie and Edith (Huseby) Neus. He was baptized and confirmed at Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams.

He graduated from Adams High School in 1964. He attended the Austin Vocational School and had schooling from IBM. He was in the US Army and Army Reserve from 1966 to 1972.

In 1996, he joined and was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Rochester. He was also a member of the Rochester VFW.

He worked for IBM Computer Corporation in Rochester for over 30 years and Target for six years.

He was an avid collector of coins, gold pocket watches, guns, Egyptian artifacts among other things.

Survivors include mother, Edith Neus, Adams; sister, Ardith Klouse, Mason City, Iowa; brother and sister-in-law, Arvid and Nancy Neus, Adams; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Visitation: Saturday at the church for one hour before the service. There will be no reviewal.

Service: 1:30 p.m. memorial service Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003, at Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams with the Rev. Shari Mason officiating.

Interment: Little Cedar Lutheran Cemetery, Adams.

Funeral Home: Adams Funeral Home, Adams.

Memorials: To donors choice.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 14, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Ella M. Nelson, 93, of Austin, died Saturday, January 11, 2003, at Austin Medical Center.

She was born December 24, 1909, in rural Lyle, to William and Annie (Hanson) Exelby. She grew up and went to school in rural Lyle.

In 1926, she married Darrel Hall. He died in 1928.

On Oct. 7, 1930, she married Lloyd W. Nelson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. He died in 1969.

Ella loved gardening and sewing. She was the 1991 Fourth of July Cedar River Days Senior Queen. She was a 60-year member of the Austin Eagles Auxiliary.

Survivors include daughters and son-in-law, Lorraine Price, Austin; Lois and Don LaValley, Austin; Judy Bjorgo, Austin; sons, Robert Nelson, Austin; Ken Nelson, Austin; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sisters and brother-in-law, Marcella Wutschke, Hudson, Wis.; Eileen and Cliff Valez, Robinsdale; Shirley Fjerstad, Anoka.

She was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; grandson, Michael Smith; six brothers and six sisters.

Visitation: 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at the funeral home and Wednesday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ronald Barnett officiating.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 13, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Mary Martha (Grimes) Towles, 86, formerly of Austin, died Thursday, January 9, 2003, at Oakridge Gardens Nursing Center, Menasha, Wis.

She was born March 22, 1916, in Lily, S.D. to Irl and Edna (Matthews) Grimes.

On October 23, 1933, she married Quentin E. Towles in Lily, S.D. He died August 11, 1993.

Mary worked as a waitress and a shoe sales person in Austin before retiring in 1975. She enjoyed card playing, camping, traveling, crocheting, crewel and reading.

Survivors include son, Roger Towles, Castro Valley, Calif.; daughters, Marsha (Terry) Harbin, Racine, Wis.; Barbara (Clay) Citrano, Berkley, Calif.; Patricia (Bob) Sanderson, Appleton, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Bill (Bethel) Grimes, St. Paul; Wayne (Sue) Grimes, Melbourne, Fla.; sister, Lois (Cliff) Lee, Rockledge, Florida.

Visitation: One hour before the service on Wednesday.

Service: Funeral mass was 11 a.m., today in Appleton, Wis. There will be a 10:30 a.m. prayer service Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, at the funeral home with Father Paul Nelson officiating.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 13, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Charlene L. Hill (Szafranski), 58, formerly of Aurora, Minn., died Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2002, at Willows on Main Nursing Home, Rockford, Ill., after a long illness.

Ms. Hill was born to John G. and Hilda (Mortenson) Szafranski on Jan. 8, 1944, in Virginia, Minn. She attended school in both Palo-Markham and Aurora-Hoyt Lakes. She earned an associates degree from Mesabi Community College in 1974. In 1986, she received a bachelor of science degree in community service from Bemidji State University and in 1994 a masters degree in social work/agency management from the University of Arkansas, Little Rock.

She was an avid reader, writer, gardener, seamstress and interior decorator. Over the years she spent many joyful hours caring for her many pets, especially Krisna and Peaches. She was a social advocate, a great portion of her life spent helping those with alcoholism, domestic abuse, women's issues, and abused and neglected children.

In 1984, she wed Arthur Hill, making their home in Biwabik, Minn. They moved to Rose Creek, Minn. in 1989, continuing to enjoy small town living and her many hobbies. She and Art retired to Rodgers, Ark., where they made their home until Art's passing in 1992.

She is survived by daughters, Carla Skytta, Minneapolis, Minn.; Cathy Cerra, Wayzata, Minn.; Gina (James) Petrick, Scott Air Force Base, Ill.; brother, John (Constance) Szafranski Jr., Tucson, Ariz.; sisters, Patricia Gordon, Minneapolis, Minn.; Luanne (John) Kernin, Westby, Wis.; grandchildren, Eric and Rachel Skytta; Brandon Cerra; Haley Nelson; Hunter and Nicolas Petrick; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Art Hill; and a brother, Darryl.

A remembrance service will be held at Ziemer-Moeglein Funeral Home, Aurora, Minn., on Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, from 3 to 5 p.m. Eulogy to begin at 3:30 p.m.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 9, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Flossie May Beckel, age 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Flossie was born Dec. 23, 1908, in Millers Creek, N.C., to Edward and Mary (Johnson) Cole. The Cole family moved to Montana where Flossie attended school.

She married Earl H. Beckel on Feb. 5, 1927, at her parents' home in Deer Lodge, Mont. They moved to Austin, Minn., and raised their family of four children. After Earl passed away on Feb. 17, 1985, Flossie moved to the Cedars of Austin where she lived for 12 years before entering St. Mark's Lutheran Home in November 1997.

Flossie was a homemaker and loved to visit and entertain her friends. She devoted her life to the care of her home and family. For many years Flossie enjoyed crafts and creating special dishes to serve her guests. She was a lifetime member of the Church of Christ of Austin.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law: Bernard and Lois Beckel, Austin; daughter and son-in-law: Velma and Clifton Vick, Austin; 18 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 11 step-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Velma Swant, Deer Lodge, Mont., Grace Ellis, Washington; brother: Hoy Cole, San Jose, Calif.; sister-in-law: Elna Cole, Two Harbors, Minn.

She is preceded in death by her husband: Earl H. Beckel; son: Leland Beckel; daughter: Lucille Weinmann; twin brother: Hughlun Cole; sister: Edith Kent; great-granddaughter: Kelly Ruthledge; son-in-law: Gerald Weinmann; sister-in-law: Marguerite Waller; four brothers-in-law: Marvin Swant, Leland Kent, Orb Ellis and Rex Waller.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, at Grace American Lutheran Church with Pastor Greg Mannel officiating. There will be a 4 p.m. prayer service officiated by Pastor David DeFor of the Church of Christ, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday and one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery,

The casket bearers will be Stephen Vick, Roger Beckel, Thomas Beckel, David Beckel, Robert Weinmann, Leland Weinmann, Earl Weinmann, Michael Weinmann and Timothy Weinmann.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 9, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Pauline Caroline May, 93, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at the Austin Medical Center.

She was born May 18, 1909, in Johnsburg, to Barney and Christina (Bissen) Brown.

On May 13, 1935, she married Alfred May in Johnsburg. Pauline was a homemaker.

Survivors include sons, John (Jan) May, Eden Prairie; Don (Sandy) May, Austin; daughters, Donna (Tom) Maas, Austin; Marianne (Chuck) Frein, Austin; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Bertha Brown and Rosella Brown; brother-in-law, Gregor (Priscilla) May.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband on Jan. 16, 1997; sisters, Rosella Steiger and Marie Dederich; brothers, Adolph, Irvin, Fred, Ambrose, Arthur and Paul Brown; grandchild, Randy May; four great-grandchildren.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, with a 5:30 p.m. rosary at the funeral home and Thursday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Father Ruben Spinler officiating. The casket bearers will be Brian Maas, Jeff May, Jed Frein, Annette Linder, Mark May and Tim Maas.

Interment: St. Peter's Cemetery, Rose Creek.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 7, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Robert Arnold Lonergan, 88, of Austin, died Jan. 5, 2003, at his home.

He was born Nov. 6, 1914, in Austin, to Andrew and Mary (Suren) Lonergan.

On June 17, 1942, he married Mildred Learn in Austin.

Bob was a retired farmer who had farmed the family farm all of his life. He was a member of the Moscow Rural District 29 School Board from 1955 to 1956.

Survivors include sons, Bob Lonergan, Lee's Summit, Mo.; Frank Lonergan, Austin; David (Lauren) Lonergan, West Lakeland Township; daughter, Mary Lonergan; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife; grandson, Patrick Lonergan; sisters, Loretta Tucker, Grace Miller and Margaret Creegan.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, and for one hour before the service at the funeral home on Thursday.

Service: 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home with Father Paul Nelson officiating. The casket bearers will be Chris Lonergan, Shad Lonergan, Larry Tucker, Ray Tucker, Richard Johnson and Cheryl Schewe.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 7, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Henry "Hank" Mortenson, age 89, of Preston, and formerly of Adams, Minnesota, died Sunday, Jan. 5, 2003, at Preston Good Samaritan Center.

He was born May 2, 1913, in Buffalo Center, Iowa to Hans and Helen (Espe) Mortenson.

He grew up in the Crystal Lake area, graduated from Iowa City High School and attended the University of Iowa. He served in the US Army in Germany during World War II.

On Dec. 29, 1945, he married Catherine Kellogg in Davenport, Iowa. They later moved to the Taopi area where they farmed for over 30 years.

Hank served several years as a member of the Adams School Board and was a member of the Marshall Lutheran Church, Clayton Farm Bureau, Adams American Legion, Mower County Pork Producers and the Mower County GOP.

In 1978, the couple moved to the Bemidji area where he was active in many church and community organizations. In 1998, Hank moved to the Cedar Court Apartments at Adams and in the fall of 2000 entered the Preston Good Samaritan Center.

Survivors daughter and son-in-law, Salley Mortenson and Al Zdrazil, St. Paul; son, Alvin Mortenson, Louisville, Ky.; one granddaughter; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, two brothers and three sisters.

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

Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday at Marshall Lutheran Church with the Rev. Shari A. Mason officiating. Casket Bearers will be Dale Himebaugh, Jim Bustad, David Voigt, Gus Johnson, Wayne Johnson and Ed Kellogg.

Interment: Marshall Lutheran Cemetery with Adams Post #146 American Legion in charge of military rights.

Funeral Home: Adams Funeral Home, Adams.

Memorials: To the Marshall Lutheran Church, the Alzheimers Association or the Preston Good Samaritan Center, Preston.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 7, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Joel D. Gullickson, age 39, of Austin, died Sunday, Jan. 5, 2003, at his home.

Joel Duane Gullickson was born Sept. 20, 1963 in Austin, Minn. to E. Duane and Kay L. (Baumgartner) Gullickson.

He graduated from Austin High School in 1982 and then attended Austin Vo-Tech for two years for Auto Body. He loved life. Joel especially enjoyed working with his "brothers" at The Muffler Center. He loved visiting with the many people who stopped at the shop or at home. He enjoyed watching and going to Nascar races, golfing with his buddies on Sundays and spending time at home with Kim and Jared. He never complained even during the last months of his battle with cancer.

Survivors include his fiancee: Kim Thompson, and her son: Jared Krull, Austin; parents: Duane and Kay Gullickson, Austin; three sisters: Julie (Rick) Willmert, Cottage Grove, Janice (Weston) Wright, Boston, Mass., Jeanine (Jim) Nelson, Austin; grandmother: Luella Baumgartner, Austin; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Ed Baumgartner, Ed Gullickson and Lillian Gullickson.

Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home and one half hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery.

The casket bearers will be Harold Sorenson, Steve Sorenson, Bill Starman, O.B. Smock, Al Greenman, Gene Kruger, Neal Hartson and Kim Crawford. Honorary bearers will be Amanda Nelson, Andy Willmert, Katie Willmert, Kyle Nelson and Ian Wright.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 7, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Jeanne Vivian Morgan, 86, of Austin, died at her home Monday, Jan. 6, 2003.

She was born March 16, 1916, in Austin, to Thomas and Nellie (Hallman) Mork.

In 1955, she married Russell G. Morgan in Albert Lea. A lifelong Austin resident, Jeanne worked at the electrical union in Austin and also in Minneapolis as a secretary.

She enjoyed playing cards, reading, crossword puzzles, spending time with her grandchildren and her dog, Millie.

Survivors include sons, John "Jack" (Jeri) Morgan, Austin; Glen (Rosie) Morgan, Le Sueur; four grandchildren; nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

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

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at the funeral home and one hour before the service.

Service: 1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home chapel.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 7, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Frances Evelyn Augustin, 88, of Austin, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Sacred Heart Care Center, Austin.

She was born March 8, 1914, in LeMar, Missouri. She was raised by her adoptive parents, Daniel and Louise (Hinz) Stevens, in Forest City, Iowa, where she attended school.

On Sept. 1, 1935, she married Reinhold H. A. Augustin. They lived in Austin, where they raised five children. Reinhold died Aug. 21, 1974. Frances then lived in Texas for a short time and was active in the Salvation Army both in Texas and in Austin. She was a former member of St. John's Lutheran Church. After returning from Texas, she lived at the Twin Towers before entering St. Mark's Lutheran Home. In March of 2001, she moved to the Sacred Heart Care Center.

She loved working with her hobbies and crafts, including crocheting, knitting and doing plastic canvas.

Survivors include daughters, Louise (Del) Lingbeck, Austin; Carol (Orpheus) Belden, Austin; sons, Fred (Delores) Augustin, San Marcos, Calif.; Arthur (Bertha) Augustin, Austin; Paul (Mary) Augustin, Charles City, Iowa; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; daughter, Sharon; one great-granddaughter; two brothers and five sisters.

Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003, and for one before the service Wednesday at the funeral home.

Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Dennis Tamke officiating. Casket bearers will be David Belden, Tim Augustin, Randy Augustin, Victor Augustin, Carl Augustin and Jeff Boyer.

Interment: Grandview Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 6, 2003

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Lorenz W. Torke, 87, of Austin, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at his home.

He was born July 27, 1915, in Austin, to Martin J. and Maria (Wuertz) Torke.

On Oct. 15, 1938, he married Theresa Tobar. Lorenz was a retired employee of Hormel Foods after 44 and one half years of employment. He was a member of Moose Lodge 1180 and enjoyed golf, fishing and traveling.

Survivors include daughter, Marlene Storby, Lake Mills, Iowa; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; mother- and father-in-law, John and Anna Tobar; brother, Arnold Torke; sister, Ruth Longbehn; son-in-law, Don Storby.

Visitation: 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003, and Wednesday for one hour before the service at the funeral home.

Service: 1 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with Rev. James Mikkelson officiating. The casket bearers will be David Storby, Kevin Storby, Barbara Brackey, Robert Storby, Marilyn Storby and Sarah Storby.

Interment: Grandview Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Mayer Funeral Home

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 6, 2003

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Anna Meta Juhnke, 88, of Austin, formerly of Brownsdale, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home, Austin.

She was born March 15, 1914, to Henry and Amelia (Jahnke) Wollenberg in Arcadia, Iowa. The family moved to the rural Austin area where Anna grew up and was educated.

On March 28, 1932, she married Werner Carl Juhnke. They lived and farmed northeast of Austin. In 1963, due to Werner's failing health, they moved to Brownsdale where Anna lived until she moved to St. Mark's Lutheran Home Feb. 14, 1992. Werner died May 18, 1980.

Anna was active in her church, Trinity Lutheran, near Waltham. She served in many offices of the Ladies Aid and taught Sunday School. She was employed as a dietitian assistant at St. Olaf Hospital for many years and when they moved to Brownsdale, was the assistant cook and later head cook at the Brownsdale Elementary School.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Marilyn and George Wollenburg, Brownsdale; Dolores and Rev. Dean Bakken, Amidon, N.D.; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two step-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Beata Juhnke, Hayfield; nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two brothers and seven sisters.

Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. today, Jan. 6, 2003, at the funeral home and Tuesday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Trinity Lutheran Church of Waltham with the Rev. Jeffrey Kuddes officiating.

Interment: Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Waltham.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 6, 2003

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Irene M. C. Wallner, 78, of Stewartville, Minnesota, died Saturday, January 4, 2003, at Augustana Care Center in Hastings of congestive heart failure.

Irene Mae Catherine Hovda was born April 25, 1924, in Grand Meadow. She attended Grand Meadow High School.

On Feb. 9, 1941, she married Herbert Wallner at Bear Creek Lutheran Church, rural Grand Meadow. The couple farmed and Irene was a homemaker. She was a longtime member of the neighborhood Sunshine Club.

She had lived at Augustana Care Center for the past two years.

Survivors include husband, Herbert Wallner; daughter, Helen (Daniel) Nicholson, Hudson, Wis.; sons, Melvyn Wallner, Brooklyn Park; Dale (Linda) Wallner, Hastings; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Thelma Mattison and Myrtle Hebl, Grand Meadow.

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

Visitation: 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003, at the funeral home and Wednesday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Zion Lutheran Church in Stewartville with the Rev. Ron Allen officiating.

Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery, Stewartville.

Funeral Home: Griffin-Gray Funeral Home, Stewartville.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 6, 2003

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Lois A. Diercks, 87 of Minnetrista, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003 in Robbin-sdale.

She was born April 11, 1915 in Wahpeton, N.D., to Louis Daniel Braun and Ruth Selma Oslund. She married Richard Allen Diercks and was a homemaker. She was a painter since age 60 and a life-long artist. Lois was an avid reader and gardener.

She is survived by her children, Richard Allen (Janet Evans) Diercks, of Minneapolis; Juliana Carlson Maxa (Dwight) of Wayzata; Mary Angela Diercks of Minneapolis; Gregory (Libby) Diercks of Alexandria, Va.; Stephen (Carol) Diercks of Marietta, Ga.; Charles Diercks of Golden Valley, and Michaela Diercks of Minnetrista, 11 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Allen Diercks and five sisters and one brother.

Visitation: 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2003 at the funeral home and one hour before the service at the church. Evening prayer service 7 p.m. Monday.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 2385 Commerce Boulevard, Mound, Minn.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery, Austin, Minn.

Funeral Home: Huber Funeral Home, 1801 Commerce Boulevard, Mound, Minn.

Memorials: Catholic Charities

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 4, 2003

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Ernest F. Winkels, 93 of Mapleton, formerly of rural Adams, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003 at the Mapleton Community Home.

Ernest was born March 12, 1909 to Jacob and Lillie Winkels in Lodi, Minn. He graduated from Adams Consolidated High School in 1927. Ernest married Teresa M. Neisen on Sept. 6, 1937 in Austin. Teresa died in 1959. Ernest farmed near Taopi, Minn. He married Elenora Anne Wendel Hughes on Jan. 2, 1960. Ernest retired from the Mower County Secondary Road Department after many years of service to the county. He was a member of St Theresa's Catholic Church in Mapleton. Ernest was a 3rd Degree Member of Council #1201 Knights of Columbus in Austin. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, working with horses, training Brittany Spaniels, playing cards and his family.

Ernest is survived by his daughter, Maureen (Richard) Nowak, Mapleton; a son Joseph (Cristina) Hughes, San Diego Calif.; a sister Margaret Ulwelling, Adams, and a brother Raymond (Carrie) Winkels, Austin; 15 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Teresa, daughter Mary Winkels, second wife, Elenora, and a son, Clyde Hughes.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, Jan, 5, 2003 at the funeral home with a prayer service beginning at 4 p.m. and one hour before the service at the church on Monday.

Service: 10 a.m. Monday at St Theresa's Catholic Church in Mapleton with Father Tim Biren officiating.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery in Austin

Funeral Home: Olson-Tichenor Funeral Home, Mapleton

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 4, 2003

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Audrey Edith Neumann, 73 of Austin, died at Adams Healthcare Center Monday, Dec. 30, 2002.

She was born March 9, 1929, to Elmer and Alice (Schlinske) Brynteson in Kimbal, Minnesota. She moved to Austin with her parents where she graduated from Austin High School in 1947 and attended Austin Community College, taking business courses. Audrey married Ernest R. Neumann on Nov. 3, 1956 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Employed by Local 9, she was elected financial secretary to the union. She then worked as a tax preparer for H & R Block and Hill and Larson, CPAs for several years. Audrey was very active at St. Olaf Church and at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lyle. Other organizations include Lyle Lioness Club, Lyle Study Group, Lyle Senior Citizens and Mower County DFL.

Survivors include sons, Dean (Mary S.) Neumann of Prior Lake; Richard (Mary A.) Neumann of New Ulm; Michael (Cathleen) Neumann of Austin; daughters, Deanne Neumann of Lyle; Cindy Neumann (Rick Underdahl), of Rose Creek, Melanie Neumann (Sgt. Seth Gilbert) of Austin; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation: Was held at 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, at the funeral home and at the church one hour before the service.

Service: Was held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lyle with The Rev. Barbara Finley-Shea officiating.

Interment: Grandview Cemetery

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 4, 2003

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Sue Ellen Kaupang, 56, died at her at home following a battle with brain cancer.

She was born Aug. 9, 1946, in Albert Lea, to Henry and Edith (Ashworth) DeVries. She lived on a vegetable farm outside Maple Island and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1964.

On July 24, 1965, she married Arlen Jacobson and moved to Austin. After their divorce in 1975, Sue worked part-time as a delivery driver for Winnebago motor homes and traveled throughout the USA and Canada. She then attended the Austin Vo-Tech to learn secretarial word processing and obtained her administrative assistant position with Hormel Foods Corporation in 1985, where she remained until her illness.

On May 1, 1999, she married Russell Kaupang and moved to Rochester, where they attended Celebration Community Church in Byron.

Sue loved to read and write poetry, published two poetry books entitled "Random Thoughts of a Meandering Mind" and "a potpourri of poetry." In the summer of 2002, the couple returned to Bethlehem Free Methodist Church in Austin.

Survivors include her husband, Russell Kaupang; children, Jerry (Ruth), Hartland, Wis.; Sandra (Jim) Braun, Champlin; Evan (Lisa), Peoria, Ill.; six grandchildren; two stepchildren, Tammie Kaupang, Minneapolis; Kim (Bill) Bartodziej, Richfield; two step-grandchildren; brother, Jack (Marlene) DeVries, Hollandale; sisters, Dorothy Stegenga, Hollandale; Carol (W. Jay) Hadlock, Herndon, Va.; Joyce (Dave) Reynen, Austin; step-sister, LaVonne (Denny) Sundlee, Montevideo.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law, Elmer Stegenga.

Service: 11 a.m. memorial service, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Bethlehem Free Methodist Church in Austin with Pastor Michael Ewert officiating.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 3, 2003

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William G. Venema, 64, of Grand Rapids, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at his home of lung cancer.

He was born Nov. 26, 1938, to Lloyd and Marguerite (Harris) Venema in Morris. He grew up and attended schools in Austin. He entered the US Navy in 1956 and served until being honorably discharged in 1958.

On Nov. 22, 1985, he married Barbara Dianne Kent at the United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids. William was self employed for 43 years, most recently at B & D Carpet and Tile Co. He retired in June of 2002 due to health reasons. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara; sons, Brett, Raymond; Steve, Grand Rapids; Casey (Kim), Bovey; Todd (Desaree), Peyton, Colo.; stepchildren, Lori deCathelineau, Willmar; Mark Richardson, Eagan; nine grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; brother, Dale (Karen), Battleground, Wash.; sisters, Pat (Bob) Tritz, Minnetonka; Heidi (Steve Mather) Venema, Richfield.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mary.

Visitation: 4 to 6 p.m. today, Jan. 3, 2002, at the funeral home and Saturday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 11 a.m. Saturday at the United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids with Rev. Marva Jean Hutchens officiating.

Interment: Itasca Calvary Cemetery, Grand Rapids, with military honors.

Funeral Home: Libbey Funeral Home, Grand Rapids.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 3, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Lloyd Anderson, 84, of Austin, died Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

He was born Jan. 8, 1918, in Trimont, to Ernest and Annie (Holden) Anderson.

He graduated from Trimont High School and in 1940 graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College. He taught math at Mapleton High School from 1940 until 1942, when he joined the Army and was stationed in Louisiana.

On Jan. 16, 1943, he married Margaret Olson at Augustana Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, where he was an active member.

Lloyd's service in World War II ended in 1945 in India. The family moved to Austin in 1946, and Lloyd received his master's degree from the University of Minnesota in 1947.

A member and former president of the Henriei Microbiolist Society, he worked at the Hormel Institute as a microbiologist from 1946 until his retirement in 1983.

He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin, serving on the Church Council and many other boards and committees, as well as teaching Sunday School. He was also judge for the high school science fairs in Austin for many years. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and reading. He was a Gideon and began the CBC group in Austin.

Survivors include wife, Margaret; sons, David Anderson, Marietta; Georgia and James Anderson, Moorhead; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Eleanore Anderson.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Arnold and Clinton Anderson.

Visitation: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. today, Jan. 2, 2003, at the funeral home and Friday at the church for one hour before the service.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ronald Barnett officiating.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1216 and American Legion Post 91.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Jan. 2, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Donald Allen Voeltz passed away February 13, 2003, at his home in Phoenix, Ariz.

Donnie was born January 26, 1944. He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Pleasant Valley and was confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in Austin. He attended Cedar City rural school and went to Rose Creek High School, graduating in 1962. He loved music, his guitar and singing. He cut several records, then went on to Mankato Business College, graduating in 1964.

On Aug. 31, 1964, he married Janet Smith in Lakota, Iowa. They lived in Rochester for 15 years, employed at International Trucking. They then moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where he owned several businesses.

He is survived by his wife, Janet; sons, Allen; Jeffrey and Rhonda; granddaughters, Nicole and Sierra; brothers, Ken and Marlys, Stewartville; Wayne and Darlene, Rochester; sister, Mary Ann, Apple Valley; mother, Ann, Austin; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Norma and Vernon Smith, Lakota, Iowa; friends, Dick and Sharon Wilkie; many relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald R. Voeltz.

Memorial services were held Feb. 18, 2003, at Menke Chapel with the Rev. Dick Hamlin Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church of Sun City officiating.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 28, 2003

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Edward John Akkerman, 87, of Austin, died Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at Austin Medical Center.

He was born Jan. 12, 1916, to Carl A. and Gesina (Ellingrod) Akkerman in Sibley, Iowa. The family moved to Stewartville when he was a baby, then to Brownsdale when he was a teenager.

He started working at Hormel in 1937 and married Doris Seavey in 1941. Ed spent four years in the Navy during World War II, returning to Hormel to complete his 35 years. Ed also farmed from 1950 until 1985 and continued helping until last year.

An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed doing woodworking for 30 years. His shop was known as Grandpa's Fix-it Shop.

Ed served as a trustee at Holy Cross Lutheran Church where he was a member for 45 years.

Survivors include his wife, Doris Akkerman, Austin; daughter, Helen Drews, Ogallala, Neb.; son, John (Solveig) Akkerman, Austin; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers, Elmer (Erna) Akkerman, Austin; Dale (Ila Mae) Akkerman, Austin; sisters-in-law, Laura Akkerman, Brownsdale; Marlys Akkerman, Mankato.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two grandsons; four brothers; five sisters and a son-in-law.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church.

Service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 1, 2003, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church with the Rev. Robert Stohlmann officiating.

Interment: Lansing Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 27, 2003

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Wieonia A. "Onie" Miles, 49, of Austin, died Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester.

She was born Sept. 6, 1953, in Minneapolis, to Franklin and Reta (Galher) Miles. She graduated from Minneapolis Central High School and Riverland College in Austin.

She loved crafts, dolls, teddy bears, pictures, dancing, music, and spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include her children, Mike Woodworth, North Minneapolis; Mark Woodworth, Austin; Winona and Mike Cooney, Bloomington; Matt and Kandi Woodworth, Austin; 10 grandchildren; mother, Reta Miles, Austin; brothers and sisters-in-law, Allen Miles, Iowa; Kevin and Paula Miles, Burnsville; Chris and Carol Miles, Winslow, Ariz.; Gordon Miles, Oak Park Heights; Brian and Tammy Miles, Huntsville, Ala.; sisters, Kandice Miles, Austin; Frankie Miles, Austin; Cheryl Bellikka, Austin.

She was preceded in death by her father; brother, David Miles; and brother-in-law, John Bellikka.

Visitation: One hour before the service.

Service: 1:30 p.m. memorial service Friday, Feb. 28, 2003, at the mortuary with the Rev. Ron Barnett officiating.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 27, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Marvin G. Pierce, Jr., 62, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center.

He was born Jan. 7, 1941, in Trego, Wis., to Marvin Sr. and Esther (Maricle) Pierce. In 1947, his family moved to Spring Valley where he attended school.

In 1966, he married Evelyn Dunn. They had three sons, Robert, John and Larry. They were later divorced. In 1972, he married Lynda Erickson. They had a daughter, Theresa, and a son, Tony. They were divorced 1980. In 1981, he married Linda Thorpe and adopted Allen (Thorpe) in 1986. They later divorced.

Marvin loved spending time with his grandchildren, being outdoors, fishing, hunting and driving. He had coffee in a restaurant every day.

He enjoyed driving 18-wheelers until his health kept him off the road. He was a member of the Mower County Sheriffs Posse.

Survivors include sons, Robert (Stacy) Pierce, Austin; Larry Pierce, Winona; Tony (Amanda) Pierce, Albert Lea; Allen Pierce, Austin; daughter, Theresa Pierce-Belland (Mark), Burnsville; stepdaughter, Lisa Canady, Lincoln, Ill.; 14 grandchildren; brothers, Myron Pierce, Spring Valley; Duane (Nancy) Pierce, Rochester; sisters, Norma (Ken) Northway, New Albany, Ind.; Charlene (Merlin) McElyea, Spring, Texas; former wives, Evelyn Dunn, Winona; Lynda Erickson, Burnsville; Linda Thorpe, Austin; nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and infant son, John.

Visitation: Wednesday for one hour before the service at the mortuary.

Service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, at the mortuary with Chaplain Cathy Mannel officiating. Casket bearers will be Robert Pierce, Larry Pierce, Tony Pierce, Allen Pierce, Myron Pierce and Rodney Hutchinson.

Interment: Etna Cemetery, Spring Valley.

Funeral Home: Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 26, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral services for Bob Watts will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at the LeRoy Lutheran Church with the Rev. Thomas Kolden officiating. Burial will be at the LeRoy Cemetery.

Bob Watts, age 64, owner of the Travel Inn and Watt's on 1st in LeRoy, died Sunday, Feb. 23, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.

Robert Lee Watts was born Feb. 7, 1939, in Boon, Iowa, to Donald and Dorothy (Peachy) Watts. They moved to the Lansing, Minn. area where he was raised. In the early 50's he started working at Lansing Corners Supper Club. This was where he learned his restaurant skills. In 1958, he graduated from Austin High School. From 1959 to 1961 he worked at and owned, with his dad, Bob's Drive Inn in Austin. This was one of the first restaurants to do broasted chicken in the area. They opened The Plaza Restaurant at the Pure Oil Truck Stop in 1962. This was one of the first 24-hour restaurants in the area.

On Oct. 4, 1963, he married Linda Groen in South Dakota. They bought the Stardust Night Club in Austin in 1967 and, in 1970, they moved to LeRoy and bought the Travel Inn from the Rich family. In 1998, they added Watt's on 1st, expanding their business with a bowling alley and banquet facilities. He continued to run the businesses until the time of his death.

He was very active in Ducks Unlimited and enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, pool, bowling, and he truly loved being on the water in his boat.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda of LeRoy; three sons, Todd Watts of LeRoy, Troy Watts of McIntire, Iowa, and Scott (Christina) Greenameyer of Orange County, Calif.; one daughter, Kim (Bob) Biffen of New Jersey; seven grandchildren, Kenzie, Dylan, Cole, Jimmy, Danny, Dana and Kyle; one brother, Kermit (Melodie) Watts of Austin; one step-sister, Sheila (Gene) Windfelt of St. Cloud; and his stepmother, Toni Watts of Austin.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at the LeRoy Lutheran Church and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Memorials preferred to the family.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 26, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb

 

Elizabeth J. Dion, 58, of Ranier, died Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at her home.

She was born Nov. 10, 1944, in International Falls, to John and Kathleen Nagle. She graduated from Falls High School.

She was married to Louis Dion for over 40 years. A military wife, Elizabeth lived in numerous states and Europe. She was a wife, mother and mentor for her grandchildren.

She enjoyed fishing, ice fishing and camping.

Survivors include her husband, Louis Dion, Ranier; sons, Louis (Karen) Dion, Jr., Rose Creek; daughters, Marilyn (Randy) Hansen, Austin; Michelle (Terry) LaVelle, Austin; nine grandchildren; brothers, Jim Nagle, Nivis; Fred Nagle, Greenville, S.C.; Raymond Nagle, Park Rapids; sisters, Ellen Cox, Seattle, Wash.; Kathy Mannausau, Moorhead; Patty Baker, St. Paul.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Rosetta Bahr; and brother, Russell Nagel, Sr.

Visitation: One hour before the service.

Service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, at Evangelical Covenant Church with Rev. Larry Connors officiating.

Interment: Forest Hill Cemetery.

Funeral Home: Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc., International Falls.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 26, 2003

©2009 MNGenWeb