Neva Marie Hilker, 86, of Austin died Friday morning (Jan. 29, 2010) at the Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin.

Neva was born Dec. 11, 1923 at Adams, Minn., the daughter of Nels and Laura (Lewison) Quale. She graduated from Adams High School and attended beauty school in Minneapolis, Minn. with her good friend Jean Lauritzen. She was married to Dale E. Hilker on April 21, 1946 at Sioux Falls S.D. She owned and operated Neva's Beauty Shop in Austin until her retirement.

Neva was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the B.P.O.E. Does and the Austin Hair Dressers Association. She was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching the Twins, Vikings and Timberwolves.

Neva was preceded in death by her husband and her brothers.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law: Gretchen and Mark Ramlo, Austin, Minn.; Sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine and Kenny Knutson, Lakefield, Minn.; Sister-in-law, Margaret Quale, Rose Creek, Minn.; many nieces and nephews and extended family, Scott, Tammy, Dan and Alyssa Ramlo of Roscoe, Ill.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday Feb. 1 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Todd Portinga, AIM officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[ ROCHESTER POST-BULLETIN ONLINE, JAN. 30, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Donald Gordon Miller, 91, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday morning, Jan. 31, 2010, at the Veterans Home in Minneapolis.

He was born September 7, 1918 to John and Jean (Pigott) Miller in Minneapolis, where he graduated from Marshall High School and attended the University of Minnesota for two years before enlisting in the Army in March of 1942.

Serving in World War II as a Second Lieutenant, he received an honorable discharge in September of 1944. He attended Dunwoody Institute for Broadcasting and in 1949, went to work in New Ulm for KNUJ radio, the Polka Station of the Nation. He spoke German fluently and did several shows in German. He was instrumental in the promotion that led to the glory years of old-time bands. He later moved to LaCrosse, Wis. to work at Channel 8 TV, then Waterloo, Iowa and KAUS radio in Austin. He was a radio and television anchorman for more than 40 years. An avid reader, Don enjoyed classical music, opera and talking with his friends.

Survivors include nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation is one hour before the service. Interment is at Acacia Park Cemetery in Mendota Heights with military rites by American Legion Post 91. Memorials are preferred to the Salvation Army or Austin Public Library.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Tue., Feb. 2, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Edward Lewis Clark, 92, of Austin died Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 26, 2010 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home in Austin.

He was born Nov. 21, 1917, in Millet, Alberta, Canada, the son of Martin and Bertha (Fleming) Clark. The family moved to Austin where he received his education. On Sept. 14, 1940, he was united in marriage to Grace Arlene Clark in Northwood, Iowa. Following their marriage, the couple made their home in Austin where Ed worked for Hormel Foods in the shipping department from 1942 until his retirement in 1980. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a jack-of-all-trades, but especially enjoyed working with wood and building the family home. Grace died on Dec. 19, 2009. Ed entered St. Mark’s Lutheran Home on July 18, 2007.

He is survived by four children, Barbara (James) Wencl of Owatonna, Ron (Sue) Clark of Austin, Mike (Dana) Clark of Fremont, Neb. and Susie (Kevin) Bauer of Faribault; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Robert (Peggy) Clark; two sisters-in-law, Lois Clark and Dell Clark, both of Austin; also many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Grace Clark; a grandson, John; one sister, Beatrice Hull and four brothers, Marvin, Richard, Marty and Leonard.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:30 to 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 29 at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Honorary casket bearers will be Kelli Wencl, Jennifer Thicke and Melissa Hustvedt. Casket bearers will be Chad Clark, Travis Clark, Matthew Clark, Thomas Wencl, Jason Sandlin and Justin Stevens.

Memorials may be made to St. Olaf Lutheran Church Building Fund or Alzheimer’s Research. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Pearl L. Erie, 89, of Adams, Minnesota, and formerly of LeRoy, Minnesota, died Wednesday Jan. 27, 2010 at the Austin Medical center in Austin, where she had been a patient for about one week.

Pearl Lorene Knutson was born May 2, 1920 in Austin, to Severin and Mabel (Rudlong) Knutson. She attended Adams High School, graduating in 1939. On June 28, 1939, she was united in marriage to Norman Erie and together they farmed for 44 years in the LeRoy area. Norman died on Oct. 26, 1983. After her husband’s death she moved to Riverside Apartments in LeRoy. Pearl was an active member of the LeRoy Lutheran Church, teaching Sunday school and vacation bible school. She also enjoyed the WELCA and Circle activities. She always loved flowers, birds and bird houses and anything pertaining to Norway, such as books, pictures and memorabilia. Pearl took many bus trips and especially enjoyed the trip she took to California and the trip to Norway with her granddaughter, Danielle.

She is survived by her children, Marlys (Phillip) Rugg, Dennis (Karen) Erie, both of Rochester, and Janice (John) McDaniel of Washington, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Kevin (Deanna) Rugg, Keith (Kathleen Colleran) Rugg, Karen Ritchie and friend Leroy Steinman, Danielle (Dennis) Mulvihill, Amy (Eric) Thompson, Michelle Kennedy and Catherine (Jamie) Beauchamp; 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. Pearl is also survived by two siblings, Vernon (Verna) Knutson of Rochester and Florence Thompson of North Charleston, S.C.; and a special friend, Walter Underdahl of Adams.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one great-grandson and 1 brother. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010 at the LeRoy Lutheran Church with the Rev. Elaine Siemsen officiating. Burial will take place in the Church Cemetery. Friends may call at the church in LeRoy one hour prior to the service.

Condolences may be left at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.

Hindt Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Irwin Scullin, 95, of Damascus, Maryland, died on January 18, 2010.

He was born on December 24, 1914 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. He was employed as branch manager with the Hormel Meat Packing Company in Austin in his early years, followed by a 36-year career with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as scout executive in Huron, S.D., Huntington, W. Va., and Baltimore, Md.; regional executive in Philadelphia, Pa. and director of professional personnel services at the national scout office in New Brunswick, N.J.

After his retirement with the Boy Scouts, he became an entrepreneur, establishing Quail Hill Programs for attracting and feeding wild birds. He excelled at creating opportunities for young people and service to his community. He completed graduate studies at the University of Minnesota and University of Chicago. He served in the US Army during World War II. A longtime member of the Rotary Club, he served as past president of the Damascus Club.

He enjoyed playing the coronet, camping, photography and gardening.

He is survived by a daughter, Nancy Neomany of Annapolis, Md.; sons, Dr. Roger Scullin of Damascus, Charles Scullin of Reading, Pa. and their families.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Baltimore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, 701 Wyman Park Drive, Baltimore, MD 21211, or for aid to the victims of the Haiti earthquake, www.worldvision.org. Services will be private.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at molesworthwilliams.com Molesworth-Williams P.A. Funeral Home in Damascus, Md. is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Chester Edward “Chet” Klingfus, 83, died Sunday, January 24, 2010 at the Faribault Commons Nursing Home in Faribault, Minn.

He was born Aug. 24, 1926, in Austin, the son of Edward and Minnie (Brechtel) Klingfus. He received his education in St. John’s Lutheran Parochial School in Austin. On Jan. 21, 1966, he was united in marriage to Kay Lange in Preston, Minn. Chet was employed by the Geo A. Hormel Company for 39 years, starting at age 17 in 1943. Kay died on Aug. 26, 1996.

Chet was an avid bowler and was very proud of his 300 game on June 22, 1965. He continued to bowl for many years, until his illness forced him to quit. He loved the Minnesota Twins, especially watching the games and was rarely seen without his Twins cap. He had a lifelong love of cars, Oldsmobiles, in particular. His first new car was a 1949 Buick and after his retirement from Hormel, Chet and Kay purchased and rebuilt a 1957 Oldsmobile. Chet and Kay took the car to many shows and parades all over Midwest, where they won several awards. Chet also worked with his brothers, on stock cars for many years.

Chet was a former member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Austin. A special joy in his life were his grandchildren, Ben and Jackie. He taught them to bowl when they were very young and Ben and he had a special “bowling connection.” With his granddaughter, Jackie, Chet had a “poker connection.” Everyday after school, he would be waiting for her and she would yell out “deal the cards, Grandpa.” His grandchildren were the love of his life. He loved them unconditionally.

Survivors include a daughter, Sherry Fisher of Austin; two grandchildren, Benjamin and Jacqueline Fisher; two brothers, Roger (Alyce) Klingfus of Waterloo, Iowa and David (Val) Klingfus of Austin; several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kay; six brothers and three sisters, Kenneth, Margaret, Robert, Delores McAllister, Donald, Dawane, Betty Prigge, Wilbur and James.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin with the Rev. Thomas Ogilvie officiating. Interment will follow the service in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 28 at the Worlein Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Honorary casket bearers will be Benjamin Fisher and Randy McAllister. Casket bearers will be Jackie Fisher, Pete Hancock, Lori Klingfus, Roger Klingfus, Tim Klingfus and Scott Klingfuss.

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

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

[Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Jan. 27, 2010]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

BURIAL AT AUSTIN, MINNESOTA

James Arthur Ableitner, 59, died Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, at his home in Farmington.

He was born April 8, 1950, in Plainview, Minnesota, the son of Elmer Roy and Ruth Irene (Hetrick) Ableitner. On Sept. 1, 1978, he married Luella Kramer at Easter Lutheran Church in Eagan. They lived in Eagan and later in Farmington. James was employed by the City of Apple Valley in the maintenance department. He liked being on his computer, had a wonderful sense of humor and was the family jokester. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be missed by his dog, Mandy.

Survivors include his wife, Luella Ableitner of Farmington; two sons, Kraig (Perri) Kramer of Eagan and Kris (Laura) Kramer of Farmington; five grandchildren, Kandee, Kole, Robert, Samantha and Tabitha; two great-grandchildren, Trinity and Taylan; three nieces, Paula, Jennifer and Holly along with many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, David, and a sister, Judy.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at the Worlein Funeral Home with the Rev. Stephen DeFor, officiating. Interment will follow the service at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the Worlein Funeral Home on Friday.

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

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

[Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Jan. 27, 2010]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

#1:

Peter Francis Wagner, 43, of Foothill Ranch, Calif. passed away suddenly on Jan. 12, 2010, with his wife, children and those closest to him by his side.

Peter was born Dec. 2, 1966 to Joseph and Rita Wagner. He grew up in Austin and attended Pacelli High School. Peter graduated from St. Thomas University in St. Paul, Minn. in 1989 with a degree in business administration. During the next 21 years, he worked for several food processing and beverage companies, such as Hormel Foods, Coca Cola, Red Bull and most recently, Neuro Drinks, while living in Orange County. He took great pride in the personal and business relationships that he developed in the food and beverage industry.

In 1995, Peter married Kimberly Lauderdale and settled in Foothill Ranch, Calif., nurturing three children. As a loving father, her was constantly involved in his children’s activities like Indian Princesses and coaching softball. He was a devoted member of the Saddleback Church in Orange County where his entire family has been very active. Peter was blessed with an engaging personality and was kind and generous to all whom he came in contact.

Survivors include his wife of 15 years, Kimberly, Foothill Ranch, Calif.; children, Olivia Wagner, 13, Harrison Wagner, 11, and Abigail Wagner, 8; mother and father, Rita and Joe Wagner, Austin; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Hazel and Merle Lauderdale; brothers, Carter (Meg) Wagner, Austin, and Joseph (Connie) Wagner, Los Angeles, Calif.; sister, Liz (Mark) Myran, Eagan, Minn.; brother-in-law, Todd (Stephanie) Lauderdale, Wildomar, Calif.; sister-in-law, Lori (Peter) Morris, Yorba Linda, Calif.; many nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass in remembrance of Peter’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 511 4th Ave. NW. Visitation will be one hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you consider helping Kim and the children with a gift. Donations can be made to the family via check to: Kim Wagner Family Fund, 2 Tavella Place, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610.

Austin Daily Herald, Sat., Jan. 30, 2010

---

#2:

Peter Francis Wagner, 43, of Foothill Ranch, Calif., passed away suddenly on Jan. 12, 2010.

Peter was born on Dec. 2, 1966, to Joseph and Rita Wagner. He grew up in Austin. Peter graduated from St. Thomas University in St. Paul, Minn. in 1989 with a degree in business administration. During the next 21 years, he worked in sales for several food processing and beverage companies, such as Hormel Foods, Coca Cola, Red Bull, and most recently, Neuro Drinks. He took great pride in the personal and business relationships that he developed in the food and beverage industry. In 1995, Peter married Kimberly Lauderdale and settled in Foothill Ranch, Calif., nurturing three children. As a loving father, he was constantly involved in his children’s activities like Indian Princesses and coaching softball. He was a devoted member of the Saddleback Church in Orange County where his entire family has been very active. Peter was blessed with an engaging personality and was kind and generous to all with whom he came in contact.

Survivors include his wife of 15 years, Kimberly, and children Olivia (13), Harrison (11), and Abigail (8); mother and father, Rita and Joe Wagner, Austin; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Hazel and Merle Lauderdale, Irvine, Calif.; brother, Carter (Meg) Wagner, Austin; Joseph (Connie) Wagner, Los Angeles, Calif.; sister, Liz (Mark) Myran, Eagan, Minn.; brother-in-law, Todd (Stephanie) Lauderdale, Wildomar, Calif.; sister-in-law, Lori (Peter) Morris, Yorba Linda, Calif.; many nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass in remembrance of Peter’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 511 4th Ave. NW, Austin, with Fr. Joe Fogal officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to Kimberly Wagner: Wagner Family Fund, 2 Tavella Place, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610, or at any Wells Fargo Bank.

Austin Daily Herald, Feb. 18, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Terrill “Terry” L. Gardner, age 69, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Jan. 25, 2010 at Desert Springs Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Terrill was born on Oct. 18, 1940 in Algona, Iowa to Donald F. and Irma Dee (Roupe) Gardner. He attended Sargeant Country School and Rose Creek High School. He also attended Austin Vo-Tech and obtained a degree in auto mechanics. Terrill was united in marriage to Helen K. Fredrickson on Jan. 11, 1958 at Crane Community Chapel in Austin.

Terrill was a heavy equipment operator for Ulland Bros. of Austin. He was the owner and operator of Gardner Grading Excavating Co, Inc. of Austin. He also worked for Mathy Construction of Onalaska, Wisconsin. He was a member of Crane Community Chapel, the VFW and the Eagles. Terrill served as the treasurer of Lansing Township.

Terrill enjoyed stock car racing, hunting and he was passionate about gardening. The most important things he enjoyed were camping and fishing with his family and teaching his children the art of fishing. He loved spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially enjoyed spending winters with his wife in Arizona and Nevada.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Helen; his children, Kathy L. and Loren Anderson, Sioux Falls, S.D., Diane M. Burnison and Rick Roskammer, Hutchinson, Minn., Troy A. and Nikki Gardner, Chaska, Minn.; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, Phil (Marilyn) Gardner, Austin, Byron (Debbie) Gardner, Andover, Minn.; sisters, Marcia (Mike) Ernst, Albertville, Minn., Joyce Gardner, Maple Grove, Minn., Karen (John) Lammey, Austin; nieces and nephews.

Terrill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Perry.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 at Crane Community Chapel with the Rev. Dale Christiansen officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. and at the church for one hour before the service on Monday.

Casket Bearers will be Charlie Klock, Al Lunt, Bruce Rindflesch, Dave Braaten, Johnny Loverink and David Loverink.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Sat., Jan. 30, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Leon Dickman, age 78, of rural Austin, Minnesota, died on Thursday, January 28, 2010 at his home.

He was born Dec. 12, 1931, in Austin, to Gerhart and Luella (Lightly) Dickman. Leon graduated from Austin High School. He married Mary Folkestad on July 14, 1951 in Albert Lea, Minn., but later divorced. On Oct. 17, 1980, Leon married Barbara Bluhm Lukes in Maui, Hawaii. Leon farmed on the family farm until 1972, when he worked for the Oakland elevator, where he worked until 1980. They went to Maui, Hawaii where they managed a condo and sold real estate.

After five years in Hawaii, Leon and Barbara returned to the farm to be closer to family. He returned to work at the Oakland elevator until his retirement. Leon lived on the family farm for his entire life. In his spare time, he enjoyed exercising his Labrador Retrievers while riding his ATV, spending time in the outdoors, parades and fireworks. He especially loved to spend time with his family.

He is survived by his wife: Barbara Dickman, Austin, Minn., sons: Gary (Sheila) Dickman, Austin, Minn., Brian Dickman, Rochester, Minn., Dave (Brenda) Dickman, Austin, Minn.; daughters: Susan (Pat) Cottrell, Oakland, Minn., Linda (Steve) Wangen, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; step-children: Tim (Mary) Lukes, Chatfield, Minn., Kathy (Mark) Winninger, Waterloo, Iowa; 12 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, brother: Edwin (Betty) Dickman, Norfolk, Va.; four nieces and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010 at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with the Rev. Dr. Andrew Lindahl officiating. Interment will be at a later date. Friends may greet the family on Monday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and for one hour before the service on Tuesday.

Austin Daily Herald, Sunday, January 31, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Juelene M. Moore “Julie”, age 64, of Brownsdale, Minnesota, died on Friday January 29, 2010 at the Austin Medical Center, after a long battle with COPD.

She was born Oct. 27, 1945 in International Falls, Minn. to Spencer and Ruth Ames. The family then relocated to the Rochester area where she attended elementary school. She then moved to Eyota where she attended middle and high school. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Julie and Don where married on June 6, 1981 in Sargeant, Minn. where they lived and raised their family together until 1998 when they moved to Brownsdale, Minn.

Julie enjoyed camping, bonfires, playing cards with her husband and children, Sunday family rides, garage saling, eagle watching, canoeing, and karaoke with her best friend Margie.

She is survived by her husband: Don Moore, Brownsdale, Minn.; children: Timothy Yeadon, Northfield, Minn., Kevin Yeadon, Rochester, Minn.; Marie Moore, Brownsdale, Minn., Donnie Moore, Brownsdale, Minn.; two step daughters: Donna Moore, Rochester, Minn., Charmaine Moore, Oklahoma; 14 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, brother: Bill (Mary) Petroff, Red Wing, Minn.; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and granddaughter Summer.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at 2 p.m. at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Kraig Elliott officiating. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Tuesday for one hour before the service.

[Austin Daily Herald, Sunday, January 31, 2010]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Francis Lawrence Reiffenberger, 87, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2009 at Comforcare, where he had been a resident since late July.

"Reiffy" was born Dec. 6, 1922 in Gaza, Iowa, the middle child of Fred and Amanda (Schueder) Reiffenberger. He grew up on a farm near there and attended country school. Later his family moved Hartley, Iowa, where in 1941 he graduated from high school. During high school, he was captain of basketball and football teams. He attended Buena Vista College in Storm Lake, Iowa but was drafted into service during World War II on May 14, 1943. He went into the Air Force and then into the Army. He was a Corporal in the 18th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division. Reiffy fought in the Battle of the Bulge, the Battle of Berlin and the Hartz Mountains Campaigns.

On Sept. 1, 1946, he married Naomi Jean Miller at the Methodist Church in Hartley, Iowa. Reiffy started working for the Red Owl in 1948. In 1950, he was recalled into the Army Reserves for the Korean War. He moved his family to Austin in 1954, where he was the Meat Manager for the Red Owl. He later became a Meat Merchandiser for them. After 37 years, he retired and from 1984 to 2001 he traveled three states as the owner of "Reiffy's Razor Repair."

Reiffy loved his family. He was always willing to do child care and drove many miles to attend his grandchildren's activities. He was a wonderful cook and enjoyed making homemade candy for the holidays. He indulged his passion for vegetable gardening by having four plots at the city garden for the past 30 years. He also loved to dance, liked to walk, and was an avid volunteer. Reiffy was on the Austin School Board for 12 years and served as a clerk. It was during his terms that the board acquired the land for what is now Riverland Community College and the college was moved out of the high school where it was originally started. Reiffy was a longtime member and also served as President of the Austin Activity Center for Retarded Citizens, the precursor to today's ARC. He was on the Parenting Research Center for many years. He was active at church and served on many boards and committees.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Naomi, Austin; daughter, Lynn (Steven) Price, Brooklyn Park; grandson, David Price, Coon Rapids; granddaughter, Rebecca Price, Plymouth; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; beloved son, David Reiffenberger; two sisters, Lois Thomas and Bernice Stearns.

A gathering to celebrate the life of Francis Reiffenberger will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dennis Tamke officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one half hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. There will be no reviewal at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Mon., Feb. 1, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Herman (Tony) Dietrich, age 62, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, and currently a resident of Denver, Colorado, was killed in a single motorcycle accident while vacationing in Hawaii on January 14, 2010.

He was born March 29, 1947 to Helen and Herman Dietrich Sr., of Austin. He was married to Patricia Morgan on May 4, 1968. During that time, Tony was employed by Streaters in Albert Lea. In 1974, they moved to Denver where he worked as a construction manager for a large commercial builder.

Tony was an immense family man who enjoyed four wheeling and camping in the mountains. He also like to play with his new computerized sewing/embroidery machine, working with the laptop, mastering farmville, target shooting, restoring cars and motorcycles and of course riding the Harley with wife, Patty, in the sidecar. He had a great passion for traveling and enjoyed the open water on various cruise ships.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Herman; brothers, John Rowe and Herman (Duke) Klith; sisters. Jean Addison and Margret (Muggs) Gregory.

He is survived by his wife, Patty; sons, Tony Dietrich (Cindy), Denver, Colorado, Patrick (Brooke) Dietrich, Thorton, Colorado; daughter, Kandee Dietrich, Denver, Colorado; grandchildren, Robert and Salena Dietrich and Dystany; sister, Joaan Rowe, Mankato, Minnesota; brother, Andrew Wesley Klith; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ginger (Hector) Baldus, Burnsville, Minnesota, John Morgan and Maria Diaz, both of Lansing, Minnesota, Robert (Deb) Morgan, Austin, Cindy (Harold) Roberts, Elk River, Minnesota, Tom (Julie) Morgan, Blooming Prairie, Minnesota; and his very dear and longtime best friend, Uncle Mike.

There will be a celebration of Tony's Life held on February 4, 2010 at the Adam's County Fairgrounds in Brighton, Colorado.

Austin Daily Herald, Mon., Feb. 1, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Jeffery Cole Williams, age 62, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, January 29, 2010, at his home.

Jeffery was born on March 7, 1947 to Paul and Maxine (Hendryx) Williams in Austin. He graduated from Austin High School in 1965. Jeff played on the 1964 State High School Championship baseball team for the Austin Packers. After school, he spent nine years in the United States Air Force. Upon returning from the service, Jeffery worked as an EMT in Austin, and Pinkerton for Hormel. As of late, he had been disabled. Later in life, he enjoyed playing softball and bowling. Jeffery loved sports of all kinds, especially the Twins and Vikings.

Survivors include his brothers, Craig (Vickie) Williams of Blaine, Minn. and Tim Williams and fiancé, Sherry Adams, of Albert Lea; sisters, Paula (Leroy) Tift of St. Cloud, Minn. and Sara (Walt) Stevens of Kasson, Minn.; many nieces and nephews; and close friend, Kim Scott.

Jeffery was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010 at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Chapel. The Rev. Wayne Halvorson will officiate. Interment will be at Fort Snelling Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Mon., Feb. 1, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Michael L. Flanagan, 74, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 25, 2010 with family by his side.

Michael was born April 1, 1935 in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. He was raised in Austin and was a proud graduate of Austin High School. Michael graduated from St. Thomas College and then received his Juris Doctor from University of South Dakota School of Law. He was united in marriage to Marguerite Sinnett on June 11, 1960 in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Michael enjoyed a long career as partner with the firm Moss & Barnett in Minneapolis. He served as the lobbyist for the Minnesota State Bar Association, the state's largest association of lawyers, for 33 years. During that time, Michael was the "lawyers' lawyer" in the legislative arena leading the association's effort to reform many of the state's laws. Michael received many awards and recognitions as the MSBA's lobbyist, cumulating in the receipt of the MSBA President's Award in 1995 for his outstanding service to the association and lawyers of Minnesota. He retired from his duties at the MSBA in 1999.

Michael is survived by his wife, Marguerite; his children, Brian (Shari) of Eden Prairie, Kathleen (David) Stringfield of Woodbury and Patrick (Amy) of Edina; his five grandchildren, Brianna and Elizabeth Stringfield, Charley, Josie and Julia Flanagan; and a brother, Jim (Kathy) Flanagan of Fresno, Calif.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Leonard Flanagan, and his mother-in-law, Agnes Sinnett.

Services were held in Edina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 4550 West 77th Street, Suite 200, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55435. Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel of Edina was in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 3, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Donald W. Peck, 78, of Prior Lake, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at Friendship Manor in Shakopee, Minnesota, of complications related to surgery. He had resided there since January 6, 2010.

Donald was born Oct. 3, 1931 in Lansing, Minn., the oldest child of John K. and Elnora (Blowers) Peck. He grew up in Austin where he attended school and graduated from Austin High School in 1949. Shortly after graduation he enlisted in the US Army and served in the radio corps in Japan during the Korean Conflict. In 1954, Don began his work as a station agent/operator with the Milwaukee Railroad. He became a rail traffic controller in 1962 and worked as such in Austin, Minneapolis, St. Paul and Milwaukee, until his retirement in 1994 while living in Milwaukee.

On April 30, 1955 Don was married to Rose M. Gilbertson at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. During his years in Austin Don became involved in the drum corps playing with the American Legion Drum Corps until it folded. In 1960, he became the director of the American Legion Junior Drum Corps, later known as the Spamtown Lancers, and remained the director until 1963 when he moved his family to Milwaukee. In 1968, after returning to Austin, he assisted with the Osage Precisionnaires Drum Corps for a short time. He continued enjoying attending drum corps contests up until his death. Donald loved activities with his family, enjoying many fishing and skiing trips and golfing with them. He was always teasing with the grandchildren which they all enjoyed.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rose Peck of Prior Lake, Minn.; sons and daughters-in-law, Douglas and Carrie Peck, Altoona, Iowa, Randall Peck, Rochester, Minn., Richard and Lori Peck, East Bethel, Minn.; daughters and sons-in-law, Donnelle and Russell Sampson, Prior Lake, Minn., Rhonda and R. Piers Maunder, French’s Forest, NSW, Australia; 10 grandchildren, Janelle (Travis) Finton, Jonathan (Emily) Peck, Michael (Andrea) Peck, Matthew Peck, Chelsea Frieden, Ashley Peck, Sophia Sampson, Sarah Peck, Courtney Peck and Stephanie Peck; 12 great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, John A. and Madelyn Peck, Yorktown, Va.; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Donald Hummel, Austin; brother-in-law, Charlie Gilbertson, Austin; sisters-in-law, Claire Haberkorn, Ft. Collins, Colo. and Sonja (Harlan) Sayler, Larimore, N.D.; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 5 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ron Barnett officiating. Austin Post #91 American Legion in charge of military rites. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary and at the church for one hour before the service on Friday.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 3, 2010

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Robert Andrew Lauritzen, 89, of Austin, died Thursday, February 4, 2010 at the Austin Medical Center after a short illness.

Robert was born July 1, 1920 in Morristown, Minn. to Walter and Minnie (Meyer) Lauritzen. He was raised in Austin and attended Austin High School. Bob served in World War II from 1943 to 1945. In 1948, he was united in marriage to Jeanne Maloney. In 1958, Bob was on the Fast Pitch Softball AA Championship team. In 1993, he was inducted into the Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame and in 1999 the Austin High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Bob was an employee of Hormel Foods for 42 and a half years, having worked in the beef cooler as a beef lugger. After retirement, Bob took up golf and he had many years of fun golfing with his brother-in-law, Eddie Vaith.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanne Lauritzen, Austin; children, Susan Frank, Austin, Mary (Jerry) Butlin, Rochester, Michael (Betty) Lauritzen, Mazeppa, Joan (Jim) Perrin, Austin; eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Madeline Braaten, Austin, Alyce Gallaher, Austin. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Minnie Lauritzen; brothers, Laurel and Chester; infant son, Joseph; son-in-law, Allen Frank.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 7 p.m. wake service on Saturday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91.

The honorary casket bearers will be grandchildren, Joe Frank, Jeff Frank, Annie Butlin, Abbie Butlin, Damian Lauritzen, Katie Bolin, Bob Lauritzen, Alex Perrin.

Austin Daily Herald, Fri., Feb. 6, 2010

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WORKED FOR HORMEL FOODS

Thelma Viola Hogan, 98, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at the Bradford House, Bentonville, Ark.

She was born Nov. 8, 1911, at Crystal Lake, Iowa, to Martin C. and Hedwig K. (Petersen) Christensen.

She attended elementary school in Wadena, Minn. and later high school in Blooming Prairie, Minn. She was employed at the George A. Hormel plant, in Austin, where she met her late husband, Ralph E. Hogan.

After retirement, the Hogans managed the Sooner Motel in Muskogee, Okla. and then moved to Tulsa to manage the Parkwood Townhouses. This was followed by management of the Cherry Hill Mobile Home Park, until her husband's passing in 1983.

She moved to Rogers Meadow Park apartment in 1984. She was active in the Rogers Christian Church, until her son became senior pastor of the Bella Vista Christian Church, where her membership became active. She was active before retirement and relocation in the Austin Church of Christ, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, was an officer in the Women's Missionary Society and became anniversary historian for the congregation.

She is preceded in death by her husband; parents; three brothers, Elmer, Mervin and Gordon Christensen; and an infant sister, Gertrude Margaret Christensen.

She is survived by a sister, Carole P. Christensen of Litchfield, Minn.; daughters, Jurene B. Hogan of Los Angeles, Calif., Carole C. Esparza of Rogers; son, Rev. Dr. Richard D. Hogan of Bella Vista; grandsons, David D. Hogan of Oak Park, Ill., Rev. Dan R. Hogan of Lynn, Mo.; granddaughters, Diane R. Ratekin of Omaha, Neb., Deborah A. Hunter of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Melinda DeLoach of Centerton, Leah Ortego and Linsey Esparza, both of Rogers; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010 at Bella Vista Christian Church, 103 Riordan Road, with funeral services beginning at 10 a.m., officiated by the Rev. Dan R. Hogan, her grandson. Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa.

Arrangements are by Callison-Lough Funeral Home in downtown Rogers, www.callisonloughfuneralhome.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Fri., Feb. 6, 2010

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Funeral services were held Monday, December 3, 2001 at Mona Lutheran Church for Grace Margrette (Nelson) Anderson, age 87, formerly of Mona and Lyle. Rev. Lydia Mittag officiated. Grace died Nov. 29, 2001 at the White Bear Lake Care Center, White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Burial was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Mona, Iowa.

Grace was born the daughter of Fred and Carrie (Johnson) Nelson on February 8, 1914 in Mitchell County. She was baptized and confirmed at the Mona Lutheran Church. She was a member of Mona Lutheran and presently a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, North St. Paul, Minnesota.

Grace attended Mona grade school and graduated from Lyle High School as valedictorian in 1931. She graduated from Calhoun Business School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1933.

Grace married Harlis Anderson on Nov. 29, 1933 at Harlis' parents' home by the Rev. Olaf A. Langehough. They lived in Mona, Lyle, and Austin before moving to North St. Paul, Minnesota. She worked many years for Anchor Casualty Insurance Company, St. Paul. Grace was quite musical and both she and Harlis played on the radio in Austin and Albert Lea. They also entertained in nursing homes and were active in the Sons of Norway. The couple took two trips to Norway to do research on their ancestry and found some living relatives.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Harlis in 1994; her parents; and four brothers, Ernest, Morris, Harlan and Clayton.

Those that survive her include one brother, Vernon and wife, Pearl Nelson of Conger, Minnesota; one sister-in-law, Bernett Nelson of Austin, Minnesota; many nieces and nephews and God children; four cousins; and very special friends Carol and Jack Duedeck and family.

[Mitchell County Press-News, online, www.mcpress.com, Posted Dec. 4, 2001]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Funeral services for Audrey M. Durhman will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday February 7, 2010 at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Ann Siverling officiating. Burial will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Pleasant Valley Township in Mower County.

Audrey Durhman, age 77, of Grand Meadow died Thursday Feb. 4, 2010 at Sunrise Cottages in Rochester where she had resided for about a year.

Audrey was born Feb. 13, 1932 to Fred Buchholz and Leona (Biese) Buchholz in Stewartville. She was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in Stewartville and started as the church organist at age 13.

She attended and graduated from Stewartville High School in 1949 and after her graduation worked as an assistant to the Bank Manager at First National Bank of Stewartville. In February of 1952 she was united in marriage to Ronald Durhman also at St. John's Lutheran Church. After her marriage she moved to their farm where she became a homemaker and wonderful mother. She joined Immanuel Lutheran Church Pleasant Valley where she continued as a church organist. She also served as the choir director and was a member of its women's group.

In 1992 she moved to Grand Meadow and became a member of Grand Meadow Lutheran Church where she led Bible study and was an instrumental part in getting the contemporary services started. She enjoyed doing crafts, reading, puzzles, painting, fishing and playing cards; especially 500. Audrey also enjoyed writing extensive letters and was an sports fan.

She is survived by her children; Randy (Deb) Durhman of Grand Meadow, Reggie (Therese) Durhman of Claremont, N.C., and Shelley Deyoung of Rochester, a daughter-in-law Rene Durhman of Grand Meadow, 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and a sister Delores Wolfgram of Spring Valley. She was preceded in death by her son Rory, her husband Ronald, a sister, Isabel, and her parents.

Friends may call at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow from 5-8 p.m. on Saturday and 1 hour prior to the service at the church on Sunday.

Condolences may be left on line at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com

[Rochester Post-Bulletin online, 2/7/2010 -- http://www.postbulletin.com/

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

OBITUARY: Henry Willard Hobkirk, 1877-1947

Jan. 5, 1877
Feb. 13, 1947

Henry W. Hobkirk, 70, passed away at his home in Lyle, Minnesota, February 13, 1947. He was born on January 5, 1877 in Rock township, Mitchell county, Iowa, to Robert and Louisa Hobkirk. Later the family moved to Lyle where he spent the remainder of life.

He married Marie Schwandt December 1, 1908, who preceded him in death Dec. 1916. Also preceding was a sister Zada. Surviving are three children: Lee of Osage, Mrs. Freda Haukom of Austin, Minn; and Mrs. Myrtle Peters of Lakefield, Minnesota; two brothers, Roy and Bert of Lyle and a sister, Mrs. Jessie Wyborny of Mona, Iowa, and six grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Worlein Funeral home in Austin. Interment will be in the spring in Woodbury cemetery, west of Lyle.

[The Lyle Tribune, Feb 21, 1947]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Peter A. Bartholomew, 53, of Danbury, Connecticut, husband of Judith (Sannino) Bartholomew, passed away unexpectedly at Danbury Hospital, on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Peter was born in Austin, son of Robert Bartholomew of Austin and the late Elizabeth (Malloy) Bartholomew. He graduated high school in Austin and went on to receive his bachelor’s from Western Connecticut State University and then his master’s in education from the University of Bridgeport. He had been a sixth grade teacher at St. Peter-Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Danbury. Peter had served in the U.S. Air Force and had been a member of the American Softball Association and the Richter Park Men’s Golf Club.

In addition to his wife and father, he is survived by five children, Karen Comiskey of Pawling, N.Y., Robert (Cheryl) Bartholomew of Brookfield, Heather (Phil) Buonanno of New Milford, Kristen Bartholomew of New Milford and Justin Bartholomew of Danbury; two step-children, Meagan and Emma Kendrick of Danbury; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Comiskey; and six brothers and sisters, Bernard (Joan), William (Tanya), Steven (special friend, Kathy) and Joseph (Teresa) Bartholomew and Virginia (Dean) Westfall and Frances (Dave) Hennen.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at St. Peter Church in Danbury, on Monday morning at 10 a.m. Interment will be private. A gathering of friends will be held at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury, on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Peter A. Bartholomew Memorial Scholarship Fund of St. Peter-Sacred Heart of Jesus School, 98 Main St., Danbury, CT 06810.

A private memorial service will be held in Austin at a later date.

Green Funeral Home of Danbury, Conn. is in charge of arrangements.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

James Edward McMartin, 47, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday morning, Feb. 2, 2010, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, following a massive stroke on Jan. 15, 2010.

James was born June 1, 1962, in Austin, the son of Barbara Thompson and Dean McMartin, Sr.

James met Darla in Wells, Minn. in 1985. They later moved to Austin, Minn. and married in 1999. They divorced in 2007, and reunited in 2009. James worked for Swift-Eckrich in Wells; QPP in Austin; SoyMor in Albert Lea, Minn.; and Viracon in Owatonna, Minn. He served in the Army National Guard and the Air Force.

James was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Brownsdale, Minn. He enjoyed fishing, camping, miniature golf, teaching his dogs to catch a Frisbee and spending time with his friends.

James is survived by Darla McMartin; step-father, Robert Thompson, Brownsdale, Minn.; one daughter, Misty (Will) Hall and family, Jasmine and Zander, Carlton, Minn.; one step-daughter, Tina (Dale) King and family, Cody, Chantae and Shian, Wells, Minn.; two step-sons, Tracy Roberts and family, Justin and Kelsey, Wells, Minn.; Dustin Whiteis and Christina Thomas and family, Logan and Harley, Wells, Minn.; two sisters, Lindy (Brian) Hookland, Lancaster, Calif.; Evonne (Mark) Godbout, Brownsdale, Minn.; one step-sister, Karrie Zebel, St. Paul, Minn.; three brothers, Gregory (Debbie) McMartin, Brownsdale, Minn., Dean McMartin, Brownsdale, Minn., Bradley McMartin, Rose Creek, Minn.; one step-brother, Mark Thompson, Brownsdale, Minn.; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; and his very special best friends, Kenny (Sandy) Baxter and their family, Travis, Tiara, Takoda, Shaina, Nicole and Kaley.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Barbara Thompson and Dean McMartin, Sr.; grandparents, Walter and Ida Bray; brother, Ricky McMartin; and step-brother, Charles Thompson.

A memorial service will be held on Feb. 13, 2010 at the Community Center in Brownsdale, Minn. at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Jeffery Sage Officiating. Inurnment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Austin, Minn. at a later date. Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Florence L. Saman, 82, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010 in Garden Court Chateau, Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

In 1927, Florence was born the daughter of Fred and Laura Yeadon in Riceland Township, Minn. On August 21, 1948, Florence married Fay Saman in Grand Meadow, Minn.

Florence is survived by: her husband of 62 years, Fay; her daughters, Teresa (Ralph) Pascarella of Port St. Lucie, Flor., Judy Lunde of Minneapolis, Minn., Cindy (Will) Downing of Cohasset, Minn., Anita (Jerry) Bothun of Minneapolis; son, Keenan (Caren) Saman of Beaufort, N.C.; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two nieces and three nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Feb. 8 at 11 a.m. at Rowe Funeral Home in Grand Rapids with the Chaplin Craig Carlson officiating. Visitation takes place prior to the memorial, beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be held at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis.

To sign the online guestbook or send condolences, visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

Arrangements are by the Rowe Funeral Home & Crematory, Grand Rapids, Minn.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Donald T. Nelson, 83, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 at Adams Health Care Center.

Donald Thomas Nelson was born Jan. 4, 1927 in Austin to Carl and Edna (Paige) Nelson. Following graduation from Austin High School, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving from 1944 until 1947. On Feb. 18, 1949, he married Mary Jane Gonzalez at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church in Albert Lea. Don was employed by the Hormel Corporation for more than 40 years. Don coached youth boxing for more than 20 years. He developed 10 sectional champions and four Upper Midwest champions. Don was the All-Service Champion in the featherweight division in 1947 and in 1983 received the Golden Gloves “Man of the Year” award for outstanding contributions in the Golden Gloves program.

He is survived by his wife, Mary J. Nelson, Austin; children, Thomas M. (Kim) Nelson, Austin, Sharon M. (Mo) Gerak, Delray Beach, Fla., Craig D. (Peggy) Nelson, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Rick J. (Julie) Nelson, Austin, Patrick E. Nelson, Austin, John F, (Lynn) Nelson, Eau Claire, Wis.; 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Shirley Diedrich, Faye (Bud) Harrington, both of Austin; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Kenneth, Robert, Harold; one sister, Claire Bawek. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2010, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Glenn Monson officiating. Friends may call at the Worlein Funeral Home on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and on Wednesday one hour prior to the service. The American Legion Post 91 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars post 1218 are in charge of military rites.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.worlein.com.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Monday, Feb. 8, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Evalyn M. Brownlow, 92, of Rochester, Minnesota, and formerly of LeRoy, died Saturday at Madonna Meadows in Rochester.

She was born Dec. 30, 1917 in Rose Creek, Minn. to Earl Fargusson and Martha (Messenger) Fargusson. She attended and graduated from Chester High School in 1935 she went on to beauty school in Waterloo, Iowa, graduating in 1937. On Jan. 15, 1938, she was united in marriage to Russell T. Brownlow in Waterloo and together they farmed in the LeRoy area until Russell’s death in 1970. After her husbands death, Evalyn moved into LeRoy where she worked for the LeRoy Independent, writing a column called “Cooking With Ev.”

In 1976 she attended and graduated from Rochester Vo Tech. She went on to work as a ward secretary at Methodist Hospital in Rochester for 11 years. After her retirement, she continued to do volunteer work with the Pink Ladies at Methodist. Evalyn was an avid reader at times reading over a book a week. She enjoyed playing bridge and she loved to travel. While she was in LeRoy, she was a member of the Pleasure Club and an active Member of the LeRoy Presbyterian Church and its women’s association. She was also very active in the local 4-H club.

She is survived by her children, Sandra (Roger) Bowers of Oronoco, Minn., Richard “Dick” (Barb) Brownlow of Walker, Minn. and Cynthia “Cindy” Mike Volkart of Shakopee, Minn.; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. She also survived by two sisters, Elizabeth (Ralph) Maxwell of Perham, Minn. and Harriett Oldenburg of Austin.

Evalyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two brothers, Ralph and Earl; and two sisters, Lois and Virginia.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010 at the Chapel at Madonna Meadows, 3035 Salem Meadows Drive SW, Rochester, Minn. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2010 at the First Presbyterian Church in LeRoy with the Rev. Neal Solomonson officiating. Spring burial will take place in the Leroy Cemetery. Friends may call at the Church on Wednesday one hour prior to the service. Memorials are preferred to Seasons Hospice.

Condolences may be left online at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com. Hindt Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Monday, Feb. 8, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Leo F. Thiele, 89, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died Friday, Feb. 5, 2010 at Prairie Manor in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota.

Leo was born May 5, 1920 in Breda, Iowa, and grew up on the family farm in Elma, Iowa. He had been a longtime Austin resident. Leo was united in marriage to Magdalen C. Mayer. She preceded him in death on Dec. 3, 2004.

Leo held many jobs throughout his life, but especially enjoyed his work as a cook at the Union 76 Truck Stop Restaurant, the Midtown Cafe, his painting and wall cleaning service and his many years performing in his country western dance band.

Survivors include two sons, Ted (Jeanne Lamosse), Vallejo, Calif., Ken (Patricia), North Mankato; three granddaughters, Ann (James) Burt, Minneapolis, Amy (Benjamin) Williams, Vernon Center, Alison Thiele, Vernon Center; great-granddaughter, Sylvie Burt; brother, Harold (Kathleen), Elma, Iowa.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father John Traufler officiating. There will be a 6:30 p.m. wake service on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Monday, Feb. 8, 2010 ]

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

David D. Leidall, 69, passed away Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 in Salt Lake City, Utah, following a short illness. David was born May 29, 1940, in Lyle, Minn. to Leonard and Mildred (Hollerud) Leidall. He was raised in Lyle and graduated from Lyle High School. Following time in the Navy, he returned to the Lyle/Austin area where, over the years, he worked for Hormel Foods, owned and operated Pete’s Bar and The Arcade, operated the Lyle Liquor Store, and worked for Asbesterol. He made many friends throughout the years and was always willing to help his friends. He was known for a quick wit, a sometimes mischievous grin, his love for playing cards and his infamous card trick.

David’s children wish to thank Susan for the loving care she provided David throughout their years together and especially during his illness. It was a comfort knowing he was in good hands.

David is survived by his long-time partner, Susan Brown of Sandy, Utah; his children, Darren (Kim Borchert) of Fridley, Minn., Debra (Greg) Gogins of Roseville, Minn., Joanne (Craig) Walk of St. Ansgar, Iowa, Richard (Jeanette) Leidall of Owatonna, Minn. and Mark Block of Nevada, Iowa; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother, Kermit Leidall of Las Vegas, Nev.; four sisters, Delores (Ken) Clifford, of Waco, Texas, Dorothy (John) Wooldridge of Rochester, Minn., Charlotte (David) Plantikow of Austin and Susie (Dave) Tucker of Austin; an uncle and two aunts, Kenneth (Eleanor) Hollerud and Margie Halverson of Austin; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; cousins and many friends. At David’s request, there will be no formal service.

His children will host an informal gathering of family and friends on Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the American Legion in Lyle, Minn.

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

Austin Daily Herald, Tue., Feb. 9, 2010

NOTE: from a second obituary in the Daily Herald on March 16, 2010: "At David’s request, there will be no formal service."

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Gary J. Nelson, 70, of Austin, formerly of Lyle, died of a heart attack Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.

He was born Jan. 29, 1940 to Nordahl and Lenore (Olson) Nelson in Nevada Township, Mower County, Minn. Baptized and confirmed at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church, he grew up in rural Lyle where he graduated from high school in 1957. He received his welding degree at Austin Vocational School and went to work for Oliver Corporation in Charles City, Iowa. He served in the Army for two years as an aircraft mechanic. After an honorable discharge, Gary moved back to Lyle in 1965. He married Norma Christianson on June 25, 1966 at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin. He continued to work in Charles City while farming as well as working at the Austin Fire Department for one and a half years. He retired from farming in 2000. He ushered at Six Mile Grove and later at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin. He was also a member of Lyle Lions, Lyle Economic Development Authority (EDA), treasurer for the Lyle Fourth of July committee, a longtime member of Lyle American Legion and a volunteer for the Lyle Cancer Telethon, collecting donations from businesses.

He enjoyed baseball games, traveling to Branson, Mo. in his Trans Am; and he was a great WHIST player. Survivors include his wife, Norma of Lyle; children, Laura Nelson of Lyle, Nels Nelson of Rochester, Mary (Doug) Sams of Orono; two grandchildren, Maggie and Jack; sisters, Eula Reshetar of Austin, Charlotte Feltz of Osage, Iowa, Carol (Robert) Kraushaar of Austin; brother, Chester (Barbara) Nelson of rural Lyle; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leland and Norman; sister, Eileen.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 105.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is in charge of arrangements.

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

Austin Daily Herald, Tue., Feb. 9, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Howard D. Shaw, 88, of Wirt, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Howard is survived by his children, Steve (Diane) Gulbrandson of Billings, Montana, Stephanie (Steve) Zimmer of Grand Rapids, Minn., Bill (Ann) Shaw of Maple Grove, Minn., Jane (Tim) Lexen of Cumberland, Wis., Jim (Nancy) Shaw of Grand Rapids; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Marge Cummins of Fort Meyers, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Lucille (Kuhn); his parents, Abraham and Winnie Shaw; sister, Mildred Brimacomb; brother, Warren Shaw.

A visitation and funeral service were held at United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids, Minn.

Austin Daily Herald, Tue., Feb. 9, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Dorothy Linnea Felton, 89, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 at St. Marks Lutheran Home.

Dorothy was born on Feb. 2, 1921, in Hayfield, Minnesota, the ninth child of Charles and Betty (Ahlberg) Anderson in a family of 12 children. A homemaker, she also worked at Hormel Foods for 38 years, retiring in 1978. She married Steffen “Steve” Shurson on March 4, 1939. They were the parents of three sons, Karl DuWayne, David Steffen and Tommy Joe. Steve passed away on January 13, 1950. Dorothy married Corliss Felton on June 29, 1953. He passed away on April 3, 1998.

She was a volunteer and member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, baking cakes for funerals, helping with the church bazaar, dressed in her Scandinavian garb. She worked in the kitchen of the St. Olaf Diner at the Mower County Fair and also during the National Barrow Show. She volunteered at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home, going on outings with residents to the library, on shopping trips, van rides, casinos, restaurants and Como Zoo. She helped at Bingo games and mid-week worship services. She assisted residents in the dining room at St. Mark’s during the noon hour.

Dorothy was a nominee for the Jefferson Awards in 2007. She was presented with a Certificate of Excellence for outstanding contribution and unselfish dedication at a celebration in Rochester at the International Event Center on April 19. She also received many certificates of appreciation from the Women of the Moose for her help and service as an officer. Dorothy enjoyed her family, her work and volunteering. She especially looked forward to the Anderson Family Reunion every July in Owatonna. Dedicated to her family and her church, Dorothy was truly grateful for her life on this earth. She considered herself blessed and thanked God daily.

Survivors include son, Tommy Joe; daughter-in-law, Marlene Shurson; six grandchildren, Scott (Shelly) Shurson, Julie (Kevin) McAdams, Carrie (Darrin) Giesler, Eric (Maureen) Shurson, Jon Shurson, and Tim (Nancy) Shurson; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Darlene, Lois, Georgia and Marcella Anderson; many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; two husbands; sons, Karl and David; two grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Judith Shurson; eight brothers and three sisters.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home with Associate in Ministry, Todd Portinga and Chaplain Pamela Aandahl Solberg officiating, and Neal Erickson providing music. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials are preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church or St. Mark’s Lutheran Home. Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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

Austin Daily Herald, Tue., Feb. 9, 2010

©2010 MNGenWeb

 

Cory Joe Allhiser, 32, of Austin, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2010 at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester.

He was born March 8, 1977 to Sharon (Damon) Morgan in Rochester, Minn. He grew up between Rochester and Austin. He was executive chief at D’Amico and Sons in Minneapolis and later a Forklift driver at Hormel Foods Corp. for several years. Spending time with his two children, the pride and joy of his, as well as his nieces and nephews, was his favorite thing to do. Cory loved cooking and entertaining his family and friends. He also enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, golfing, playing his guitar and listening to music.

Survivors include his mother, Sharon (Damon) Morgan of Brownsdale; children, Conner and Hannah Allhiser; fiancée, Crista Green; all of Austin; sisters, Jami (Travis Schwanke) Allhiser of Austin, Amanda (Dave) Reed of Austin; grandfather, Clifford Vincek of Austin; great aunts, Mary Lou Stewart of Rochester, Barnetta Arnold of Austin; cousin, Bobbi Schlichter; Ed (Julie Allhiser) Schlichter of Austin; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by grandmother, Beverly Stewart; great-grandmother, Irene Stewart; great-uncle, Charles Stewart.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 12, 2010 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials.

A benefit and charity snowmobile ride will be held Feb. 20, 2010, to help the children and family left behind. Information regarding the ride and benefit is available on his memorial page at coryallhisermemorial.giving.officelive.com/default.aspx.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 10, 2010

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Nora B. Hamilton, 99, of Adams died Monday, Feb. 8, 2010 at the Austin Medical Center.

Nora was born Jan. 5, 1911 at Charles City, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas and Nina (Ritter) Felper. Nora attended school at Riceville, Iowa. She later moved to the Chester, Iowa and LeRoy, Minn. area. Nora married Roy G. Hamilton at the Central Presbyterian Church in Austin on Feb. 23, 1929. They farmed in the LeRoy, Taopi, Adams and Elkton areas until 1975 when Nora retired and moved to Elkton, Minn. Her husband, Roy, died in 1974. In September of 2005, she moved to the Cedar Court Apartments in Adams and later to the Adams Health Care Center.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Roy and Carol Hamilton, Stewartville, Minn., Earl and Ruth Hamilton, Dexter, Minn., Peggy Hamilton Queensland, Elkton, Minn.; six grandsons; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; four step-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and one sister-in-law, Edna Felper, Albion, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy; one son, Norbert; eight brothers; two sisters; two half-sisters and one half-brother.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 12 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Andrew M. Lindahl officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be for one hour before the service at the church on Friday.

Casket bearers will be Ronald Hamilton, Randy Hamilton, Russ Hamilton, Kevin Hamilton, Mark Hamilton and Terry Hamilton. The organist will be Darlene Berhow and the soloist will be Richard Flisrand.

Memorials are preferred to the Westminster Presbyterian Church or the donor’s choice.

The Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 10, 2010

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Carolyn Ann Taber, 66, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, February 8, 2010, at her home.

Carolyn was born Jan. 15, 1944 in Austin to Kenneth and Margaret (Norton) Combs.

Survivors include two sons, Jeff LeBarron, Austin, Charlie (Tarsha) LeBarron, Austin; four grandchildren; siblings, Helen "Lolly" (John) Scheid, Rochester, Margaret (Don) Pell, Santa Ana, Calif., Bill (Holly) Combs, Mariposa, Calif.; nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Pat Combs; sisters, Betty Beecroft, Mary Jo Edwards.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010 at Mayer Funeral Home with Sister Lorraine Loescher officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service.

Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 10, 2010

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Cleonora (Sampson) Weness 1915-2002

Birth: Mar. 13, 1915

Death: Nov. 29, 2002

#1 of 2 items:

Cleonora Alreda Weness, 87, of Adams, formerly of Melvin, Iowa, died Friday, Nov. 29, 2002, at Austin Medical Center.

She was born March 13, 1915, in Lyle, to Oscar and Rena (Nelson) Sampson. She was baptized and confirmed at the Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church and graduated from Lyle High School.

She worked as a housekeeper until her marriage to Kenneth S. Weness on Nov. 22, 1942, at the St. Olaf Parsonage in Austin. Following Kenneth's time in the service, they made their home in Adams until 1950, when they moved to Melvin, Iowa, where they owned and operated the Locker Plant. They traveled to Norway in 1975 and 1978 and have wintered in Mission, Texas. They moved back to the Adams area this November.

Cleonora was an avid needle worker, enjoying quilting, knitting and other crafts. She was a member of the American Lutheran Church in Melvin, Iowa and was active in the Trinity Lutheran Church in Mission, Texas.

Survivors include husband, Kenneth Weness, Adams; sisters and brothers-in-law, Enid and Don Patterson, St. Ansgar, Iowa; Mildred and Keith Westling, Osage, Iowa; Marilyn and Dean Rockafellow, St. Ansgar, Iowa; brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Gladys Sampson, St. Ansgar, Iowa; nieces and nephews.

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

Service: 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2002, at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church in Lyle with the Rev. Lydia Mittag officiating. Casket bearers will be David Weness, Brian Weness, Brian Sampson, Steven Sampson, Roger Weness and Mark Weness.

Interment: Six Mile Grove Lutheran Cemetery, Lyle.

Funeral Home: Adams Funeral Home, Adams.

Austin Daily Herald, December 2, 2002

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#2:

Cleonora Weness Funeral December 3

Funeral services for Cleonora A. Weness, 87, of Adams, formerly of Melvin, Iowa, who died Friday, November 29, 2002, at Austin Medical Center, were held on Tuesday, December, 3 at Six Mile Grove Church with the Rev. Lydia Mittag officiating.

Cleonora was born March 13, 1915, in Lyle, Minnesota to Oscar and Rena (Nelson) Sampson. She was baptized and confirmed at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church and graduated from Lyle High School. Cleonora worked as a housekeeper until her marriage to Kenneth S. Weness on November 22, 1942, at the St. Olaf Parsonage in Austin. Following Kenneth's time in the service, they made their home in Adams, Minnesota until 1950, when they moved to Melvin, Iowa where they owned and operated the locker plant. They traveled to Norway in 1975 and 1978 and have wintered in Mission, Texas. They moved back to the Adams area in November.

Cleonora was an avid needle worker, enjoying quilting and other crafts. She was a member of the American Lutheran Church in Melvin and active in the Trinity Lutheran Church in Mission, Texas.

Cleonora is survived by her husband Kenneth S. Weness; Adams, Minnesota; sisters and brothers-in-law, Enid and Don Patterson of St. Ansgar; Mildred and Keith Westling of Osage; Marilyn and Dean Rockafellow of St. Ansgar; brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Gladys Sampson of St. Ansgar; nieces and nephews.

Casket bearers were David Weness, Brian Sampson, Roger Weness, Brian Weness, Steven Sampson, and Mark Weness.

Burial was in Six Mile Grove Lutheran Cemetery in Lyle, Minnesota.

[St. Ansgar Enterprise Journal
Published December 7, 2002]

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