Donna Mae Wickstrom, age 79, of Austin, passed away Saturday morning [Feb. 26, 2011] peacefully at her home. Donna was born on May 17, 1931 in Worthington, Minnesota, to Mr. Doris and Lilly Martens. She grew up in Round Lake and graduated from Round Lake High School. On July 5, 1952, she married Maynard L. Wickstrom in Worthington, Minnesota. Her husband was in the Air Force and the couple were stationed in many different States.

The couple lived in Blooming Prairie from 1961 until 1969 and then moved to Austin. Donna was a waitress at Jerry’s, Alcove and retired from the Hubbell House. She attended St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin, and enjoyed playing cards at the Senior Center. Donna truly enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her son Dennis (Bonnie Brechtel) Wickstrom of Austin; two grandchildren, Stacy (Elliot) Batcheller of Phoenix, Arizona and Sara Wickstrom of Waterloo, Iowa; two great grandchildren, Cole and Ava; and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Maynard and a son, David.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tom Ogilvie officiating. Visitation is one hour before the service and interment will be at a later date. Memorials to the Senior Center or St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Service Details--
Visitation:
Date: Wednesday March 2, 2011
Time: 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Location: Worlein Funeral Home, Austin, MN

Memorial Service:
Date: Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Location: Worlein Funeral Home Chapel, Austin, Minn.

Burial:
Location: at a later date.

[Worlein Funeral Home obituary, 2/27/2011 ]

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Alfred W. Puettmann, 78, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, February 21, at Austin Medical Center.

Survivors include his two daughters, Lisa (Gary) Hawton of Las Vegas, Lynn Spainhower of Austin; grandchildren, Christopher and Mitchell Spainhower of Austin, Diane Fallan and Johnathan Hayter of Costa Mesa, Calif., Petty Officer Daniel Hawton of Pensacola, Fla., Kimberly Hawton of Frisco, Texas; great-grandchildren, Christian Fallan and Makayla Hayter of Costa Mesa, Calif.; brother, Wilbur (Mary) Puettmann of Stacyville; sisters, Bernice Valley of Altoona, Iowa, Ramona Saurer of Northville, Iowa; nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Laura; wife, Patricia; daughter, Lori; sister Eileen; grandson, Jeffrey.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 7 p.m. rosary Friday 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 Saturday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91. Casket bearers will be Christopher Spainhower, Mitchell Spainhower, Johnathan Hayter, Daniel Hawton, Steve Huffman and Ron Puettmann.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 23, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Beatrice Wright, 103, of Austin, Minnesota, and formerly of the Grand Meadow area, died Sunday Feb. 20, at Our Family Assisted living in Austin.

She was born April 2, 1907, in Sargent to Henry and Myrtle Stephenson. She was the oldest of six children. Beatrice attended school in Spring Valley and graduated in 1925. She attended Winona State University and taught school for five years in the Spring Valley and Grand Meadow areas. In 1930, she married Benjamen Wright. They made their home in Grand Meadow, where Ben operated an Egg and Produce business. They had three children: Priscilla, Jon and Stephen.

Beatrice was most of all a homemaker. She enjoyed cooking for her family and excelled at it. She loved antiques and collected them. She also had a passion for birds, studied them, fed them and enjoyed them. She also loved flowers, grew them and tended to them. She loved traveling and made three trips to Norway along with travel near home. She was very active in Lutheran church in Grand Meadow as well as the Eastern Star. Beatrice will be greatly missed by her family and friends and all who knew her. She was a joy to be with.

She is survived by three children: Priscilla Wright of Carpenterra, Calif., Jon (Pauline) Wright of Troy, Ohio, and Stephen (Anne Marie) Wright of Kongsberg, Norway, two grandchildren, Maya Wright and Kristopher Wright of Kongsberg, Norway, great-grandchildren, Magnus, Nora and Tuva Wright — all of Kongsberg, Norway; brother, Donald Stephenson of Minneapolis; cousins: Camilla Farnswarth and Robert Stephenson both of Austin; Doris Draper of Wisconsin Dells, Jim McClellan of Arizona; nieces and nephews, including special nieces Margie Benz of Redmond, Ore., Susan Wright Weise of Schaumberg, Ill., and many cherished friends.

Memorial services for Beatrice Wright will be held at 1 p.m. Friday Feb. 25, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow with the Reverand Ann Siverling officiating. Burial of the cremated remains will be in the Grand Meadow Cemetery. Condolences may be left at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 23, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Coral Swank, 92, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away at St. Olaf Hospital February 27, 2011, and was welcomed home by her husband, Frano, and son, Brian, following a short illness that she handled with strength, grace and dignity.

Coral was born on March 14, 1918, in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, to Clara (Easton) and Henry Thompson. She grew up on the family farm near Corning, Minnesota, and completed the ninth grade.

On June 8, 1940, she married Francis “Frano” Swank in Osage, Iowa. They moved to Austin where Frano managed the Elks club for many years. Frano died in 1986. Coral was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and the chief coffee maker at gatherings. She was also a long-term member of the Sons of Norway. Coral enjoyed woodcarving and other crafts, but the love of her life was Golf at the Austin Country Club.

Survivors include her granddaughter Jenifer (Swank) Bulskov; brother, Marvin of Blooming Prairie; sisters, Muriel (Watson) of Minneapolis, Pearl (Counts) of Washington D.C.; nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Frano; son Brian (2000), brother Harmon and sister Eleanor (Baldus).

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 2, at Grace Lutheran Church with Rev. Jeff Forbes officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery.

The casket bearers will be Marvin Thompson, Dan Thompson, Jon Watson, Eric Baldus and Eugene Thompson.

Arrangements are by the Mayer Funeral Home.

Austin Daily Herald online, Tuesday, March 1, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Gertrude Paula Marquardt, 94, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday morning, February 21, 2011, at Prairie Manor Care Center.

Gertrude Lang and her twin brother were born in Omaha, Nebraska, on February 20, 1917. Her father was a Lutheran parochial school teacher and her mother an accomplished seamstress and dressmaker. In 1921, the family, including Gertrude and her three brothers, moved to Alma, Missouri, and to Maplewood in St. Louis in 1926. It was in Maplewood that Gertrude graduated from high school in 1934 and completed her nursing degree in 1937. She met her future husband, Rudolph Marquardt, at Sunday dinners her mother provided for students from Concordia Seminary. They were married April 15, 1939, and moved to Pierre, S.D. where Rudy was a pastor.

In 1941, Gert and Rudy moved to Deadwood, South Dakota, where they served the congregation of Grace Lutheran Church, in 1952 to Rapid City, S.D, to serve Zion Lutheran Church, and in 1962 to Austin, and Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Along the way they raised a family of three sons and one daughter. While in Rapid City, Gert resumed her career as a nurse and worked several night shifts a week in the Obstetrics Department. After moving to Austin, she continued her career as an obstetrics nurse three nights a week in Austin Hospital.

Gert was always the consummate pastor’s wife: quietly serving as organist, Sunday School teacher and choir director. She was active in the Ladies Aid and other church organizations, helped in the two schools her husband started, mothered her four children and nurtured her husband in his demanding role as pastor. Gert and Rudy celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary before his death in 2002.

Gertrude is survived by three sons, Jim, a clinical counselor and his wife, Charlotte from Winchester, Va., Mick, a pastor and his wife Jody, from Enatchee, Wash., Mark, a physician and his wife Rebecca, from Chapel Hill, N.C.; daughter, Arlis Clennon, a nurse and her husband, Steve from Austin; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church on March 19, at 11 a.m. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in her memory be sent to Holy Cross. 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, Wed., Feb. 23, 2011

---

Obituary

Gertrude Lang and her twin brother were born in Omaha, Nebraska, on February 20, 1917. Her father was a Lutheran parochial school teacher and her mother an accomplished seamstress and dressmaker. In 1921, the family, including Gertrude and her three brothers moved to Alma, Missouri, and then in 1926 to Maplewood in St. Louis.

It was in Maplewood that Gertrude graduated from high school in 1934 and completed her nursing degree in 1937.

She met her future husband, Rudolph Marquardt, at Sunday dinners her mother provided for students from Concordia Seminary. They were married April 15, 1939, and moved to Pierre, South Dakota, where Rudy was a pastor. In 1941, Gert and Rudy moved to Deadwood, South Dakota, where they served the congregation of Grace Lutheran Church, in 1952 to Rapid City, South Dakota, to serve Zion Lutheran Church, and in 1962 to Austin, Minnesota and Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Along the way they raised a family of three sons and one daughter. While in Rapid City, Gert resumed her career as a nurse and worked several night sifts a week in the Obstetrics Department. After moving to Austin she continued her career as an obstetrics nurse working three nights a week in Austin Hospital.

Gert was always the consummate pastor’s wife: quietly serving as organist, Sunday School teacher, choir director, active in the Ladies Aid and other church organizations, helping out in the two schools her husband started, mothering her four children, but above all, nurturing her husband in his demanding role as pastor.

Gert and Rudy celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary before his death in 2002.

Gertrude is survived by three sons: Jim, a clinical counselor and his wife Charlotte, from Winchester, Virginia, Mick, a pastor and his wife Jody, from Wenatchee, Washington, Mark, a physician and his wife Rebecca, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and one daughter, Arlis Clennon, a nurse and her husband Steve, from Austin, Minnesota, by 10 grandchildren, and by five great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church on March 19, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions in her memory be sent to Holy Cross.

Service:
Date: March 19, 2011
Location: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Austin

Interment:
Oakwood Cemetery

[Worlein Funeral Home obituary]

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Mary Alex Davis, 93, of Austin, died Monday, Feb. 21, at St. John’s Lutheran Home, Albert Lea.

Mary and her twin sister, Helen were born June 8, 1917, in Mason City, to Thomas and Condilo Reres, the first set of twins at the new Mercy Hospital.

She attended Mckinley School in Mason City. On March 3, 1936, she married Alex Davis in Mason City. Mary worked at Austin Public School for more than 40 years, worked at the Elks for many years and also helped out at the family business, Steve’s Pizza.

In her spare time, Mary loved to cook, bake, play cards, entertain at her home and spend time with her family — especially her grandchildren.

Mary was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church in Rochester.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alex Davis; daughter, Helen Davis; son, Thomas Davis; and twin sister, Helen Woonas.

Mary is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Angie Davis of Austin; grandchildren, Alex Davis of Austin, Mary (Dennis) Kloeck of Minneapolis, Nicole Davis of Pekin, Ill., Peter Davis of Rush City, Minn., Bill Davis, Minneapolis, MN; Jeff (Tracee) Davis, Houston, Tex.; great-grandchildren, Matthew Davis, Cole Kloeck, Dawson Kloeck, Riley Lyke, Will Lyke, Molly Davis, Henry Davis, Findlee Davis, Rylee Davis, Andrew Davis; sister, Esther Sheehy of Mason City; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration, 1311 Second Street SW, Mason City, with Father Joseph Mirowski officiating. Interment will be in the Elmwood Cemetery in Mason City. Visitation will be held at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, Wednesday, Feb. 23, from 5 to 8 p.m. and at the church for one hour before the service Thursday morning.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011

---

AUSTIN, Minn. - Mary Alex Davis, 93, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, Feb. 21, 2011, at St. John's Lutheran Home, Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Feb. 24, at 11 a.m. at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration, 1311 Second St. S.W., Mason City, Iowa, with Father Joseph Mirowski officiating. Interment will be in the Elmwood Cemetery in Mason City. Visitation will be held at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 23, and at the church for one hour before the service on Thursday morning.

Mary and her twin sister, Helen, were born June 8, 1917, in Mason City, to Thomas and Condilo Reres, the first set of twins at the new Mercy Hospital.

She attended McKinley School in Mason City. On March 3, 1936, she married Alex Davis in Mason City. Mary worked at Austin Public School for over 40 years and she worked at the Elks for many years and also helped out at the family business, Steve's Pizza. In her spare time, Mary loved to cook, bake, play cards, entertain at her home and spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Mary was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church in Rochester, Minn.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alex Davis; daughter, Helen Davis; son, Thomas Davis; and twin sister, Helen Woonas.

Mary is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Angie Davis, Austin, Minn.; grandchildren, Alex Davis, Austin, Minn.; Mary (Dennis) Kloeck, Minneapolis, Minn.; Nicole Davis, Pekin, Ill.; Peter Davis, Rush City, Minn.; Bill Davis, Minneapolis, Minn.; and Jeff (Tracee) Davis, Houston, Texas; great-grandchildren, Matthew Davis, Cole Kloeck, Dawson Kloeck, Riley Lyke, Will Lyke, Molly Davis, Henry Davis, Findlee Davis, Rylee Davis and Andrew Davis; a sister, Esther Sheehy, Mason City; and several nieces nd nephews.

Published in Globe Gazette on February 23, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Marvin Winslow, 77, of Mankato, finished a life well lived on February 21, 2011, at home in his favorite room, before a warm fire, and loved by his family.

Marv was born in rural Austin on December 31, 1933, to Ralph and Myrtle (Hyland) Winslow. After serving in the Air Force, he moved to Mankato where he received his teaching degree, and later a Master’s Degree in Education Administration, from Mankato State. He served District 77 as a teacher and administrator for more than 30 years and finished his career as Principal of Franklin Elementary. He also officiated football, volleyball and basketball games with his good friend Dewey Mettler for more than 30 years. An avid outdoorsman, Marv was happy on a lake or in a duck blind with family and friends. He also found endless hours of enjoyment from woodworking, particularly when he could share the hobby with his grandchildren or make something for those he loved.

Marv, along with his wife Mary, fought courageously against his illness for more than two years and were blessed with family, friends and Marv’s co-workers who supported and helped them every step of the way.

Marv is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; three sons, Mark Winslow of New Orleans, Steve (Jeanette) Winslow of Helena, Mont., Craig Winslow of North Mankato; two daughters, Martha (Brad) Bloomenrader of Owatonna and Sarah (Chuck) Seamands of Wright, Wyo.; stepson, Cory (Robin) Kiewatt of Hudson, Ohio. He will be missed by his nine grandchildren, Jake and Ryan Winslow, Laura and Holly Bloomenrader, Lynn Nash, Kindall and Preston Seamands, and Connor and McKenna Kiewatt; two sisters, Betty Jorgenson of Austin and Karen (Jerry) Becker of Lake City; brother-in-law, Harry Hoffman of Austin; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruth Hoffman, an infant brother; and a brother-in-law, Gene Jorgenson.

Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 26, at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Mankato, with Father Samuel Leonard officiating. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at Mankato Mortuary, and also one hour before the service at church on Saturday. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Mankato. In lieu of flowers, gifts will be put towards a lasting memorial in memory of Marv.

Austin Daily Herald, Wed., Feb. 23, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Lorna L. Krob, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

Lorna Lucille Norman was born March 10, 1922, in Rockwell, Iowa, one of 12 children of Frank and Stella Norman. She attended school in Oakland, Minnesota, until the 10th grade. On November 30, 1939, she was united in marriage to Theodore J. Krob. They had three sons, Steven, Carl and Dean. Lorna lived by East Side Lake in their home for 61 years before moving to Murphy’s Creek, and then St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

Lorna was an active member of First United Methodist Church, UMW Church Circle, WFL Lodge 38 and President of Webster’s PTA. She was a dedicated homemaker, loved to bake and was especially known for her kolaches. Lorna was an accomplished seamstress, making afghans for her loved ones. A highlight of her summers was fishing on Lake Kabetogama. She was an avid sports fan, attending all of her sons’ football and baseball games and watching sports on TV.

Lorna had a kind, gentle personality. She was quick witted and intelligent. She dearly loved her family and was beloved by her sons and daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Olson and the St. Mark’s staff for their loving care of Lorna.

Survivors include her sons, Steven (Dorothy) of Austin, Carl (Janet) of Bozeman, Mont., Dean (Marina) of Belgrade, Mont.; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Wilma Madison of Rice Lake, Wis.; sisters-in-law, Eva Norman and Louise Weber of Austin; nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ted on Jan. 21, 2003; parents; six brothers; four sisters; in-laws.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 25, at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Pat Toschak officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the American Diabetes Association or The First United Methodist Church of Austin.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Donald Wayne Reed, 85, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died at his home Sunday evening, February 20, 2011.

He was born on May 12, 1925, in Oslo, Minnesota, to George and Alma (Edgar) Reed. He grew up in the Oslo and Dexter area where he attended school. He served in the Army and after World War II was employed by Hormel Foods Corp. He married Arlene Johnson on Dec. 18, 1954, in Austin. After 40 years with Hormel, Don retired in 1989. Arlene died April 22, 1995. Don drove cars for Kuehn Motors. He loved spending time with his family and his dogs. He also liked to watch wrestling, go for rides and check out the used car lots.

Survivors include daughters, Nancy Semmann (Wayne Whalen) of Austin, Jean (Paul) Anderson of Blooming Prairie; son, Mark Reed of Red Wing; two grandchildren, Kristin and Tyler; great-grandchild, Kaylee; sister, Lorna Sturch of Palmdale, Calif., nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene; his parents; two brothers, Kenneth and Raymond; two sisters, Lucille and Olive.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 24, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Dale Christiansen officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Alberta Marie Stadheim, 83, of Austin, Minnesota, died at Sunrise Cottage in Rochester, Minnesota, on Friday morning, February 18, 2011, due to complications of a fall which occurred on January 24, at the Cedars.

She was born March 28, 1927, the only child of Hial Oscar and Helen Anna (Naulin) Swan in Lake Crystal, Minn. After graduation from Austin High School on June 1, 1944, she attended Austin Community College, earning her associate of arts on May 29, 1946. A secretary for Walman Optical, she married Louis John Stadheim on September 3, 1949, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin where she became active in ladies aid. She worked for Elrod and Green for 15 years. Alberta loved her grandchildren and brought them pleasure with her good cooking. She also liked to sew, do hardanger and play bridge. She was a volunteer for many groups, including the Red Cross Blood Drive and census.

Survivors include her husband, Louis of Austin; two children, Linda Stadheim of Rochester and Bradley (Beth) Stadheim of Rose Creek; six grandchildren, Heather Coulter, Jeremy (Linsey) Smith, Rebecca (Justin) Leggett, Tyler Stadheim, Bailey Stadheim, Hattie Stadheim; six great-grandchildren, Kayla and Julia Coulter, Rielly and Liam Smith, Madison and Samuel Leggett; aunt, Olga Naulin of Austin; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Edward and Blanche Stadheim of Lyle, Stanley and Babe Stadheim of Albert Lea, Arnold Stadheim of Albert Lea, Annabelle Allen of Menifee, Calif., Janet Stadheim of Albert Lea, David and Marilyn Stadheim of Albert Lea, John and Janis Stadheim of Lake City, Tony Kocanda of Minneapolis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hial and Helen Swan; son, Larry Stadheim; grandson, Matthew Smith; brothers-in-law, Richard Stadheim, Wally Dunn, Don Allen; sister-in-law, Edna Mae Kocanda, Evelyn Stadheim.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, February 25, 2011, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Tom Ogilvie officiating. Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. The family prefers memorials to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the RCTC Matt Smith Scholarship Fund. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com. A Special thanks goes for her care at Seasons Hospice and Sunrise Care Center.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

L.B. Hanna, 81
Dies; Former
Austin Postmaster

Lindley B. Hanna, 81, former Austin Postmaster, farmer, and a long time leader in the Mower county Democrat party, died Friday at his home at Walnut Creek, California.

Mr. Hanna served as postmaster from 1935 to 1940, receiving his appointment from President Roosevelt. About two years after his retirement from the postoffice, he left Austin and made his home in Colorado and California.

For many years he owned and operated a dairy farm two miles south of Austin, and was a breeder of purebred Jerseys.

He is survived by his wife; two sons, Peter, Austin, and Leland, Jackson, Michigan; and five daughters: Mrs. Jean Petersen, Cadillac, Michigan, Miss Pauline Hanna, Oakland, Calif., Mrs. Olda Seath, Owatonna, Mrs. Betty Goss, Los Angeles, and Mrs. Julia Wescott, Hanover, Michigan.

Hanna served as chairman of the Mower county Democrat Committee for several years, and was his party's unsuccessful candidate for congress in the First Congressional district in 1924. He was president of the local Roosevelt-Garner Club, and under Hugh Johnson was one of nine members of the NRA for Minnesota.

Hanna was born on November 10, 1872 at Columbus City, Iowa, where he received his early education. He married Sarah Shaum on July 21, 1894 at Wapello, Iowa. After working as a bookkeeper in his father's produce business at Columbus, City, he entered the government postal service in 1900 and was a railway mail clerk for 18 years, working first out of Albia and Mason City, and later out of Austin. He started operating the dairy farm south of the city in 1910, and continued as operator until he left Austin.

He was a consistent trophy winner in the dairy herd department of the Mower County Fair. He seved as president of the Mower County Taxpayers Association, he was secretary and treasurer, for 11 years, of the Mower County Cow Improvement Association, and held office in the Mower County Farm Bureau and the Farmers Co-op store.

[Austin Daily Herald, Mon. 5/03/1954, Page 13, col. 4]
(Credit: Mark Ashley)

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

REV. HORMEL DIES; FORMER
PASTOR HERE AND BROTHER
OF PLANT FOUNDER

The Rev. William Henry Hormel, 92, died Thursday at Boston where he made his home with his daughter, Miss Olive Hormel, book editor of the Christian Science Monitor.

The Rev. Mr. Hormel, brother of George A. Hormel, founder of Geo. A. Hormel & Company, was pastor of the Presbyterian church here, 1894-1900, and it was during his pastorate that the Presbyterians voted to move from their building at Oak and Water streets (now occupied by the Grace Lutheran congregation) to Water and St. Paul Streets.

Other churches served by him were at Chicago, Toledo, Ohio, Ottumwa, Iowa, Wichita, Kansas and Flint, Michigan. After retirement he lived for a time at Owasso, Michigan. He organized the Olivet Church at Chicago directly after his ordination.

He was graduated from Wooster College, Wooster, Ihio, and the McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago. It was while in Toledo that he met Margaret Stewart, with whom he was united in marriage. Mrs. Hormel died 20 years ago. Another daughter, besides Miss Olive Hormel, also survives. She is Mrs. Dorothy Robertson, San Francisco, whose late husband was Pacific Coast editor for Business Week. Their son, Peter, is employed by Harris Upham & Co. in California.

The Rev. Mr. Hormel's two brothers, John of Westwood, Calif., and Ben, West Los Angeles, also survive, the last of the 12 children of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hormel. The others were: George A., Elizabeth who died in infancy, Lizzie who died in 1952, Mrs. Emma Fisher, Herman who died in 1944, Mrs. Susan Wells, Albert, Mrs. Charlotte Stewart and Nellie.

The Rev. Mr. Hormel, who was two years George A.'s junior, was born July 4, 1862 at Buffalo, N.Y. His last visit to Austin was in 1946 when he came for George A.'s funeral.

[ Austin Daily Herald, Friday, 8-27-1954, Front page ]

The photo is from The Hormel Family History, compiled by Eileen L. Bremner, November 2001 for the Hormel Historic Home.

(Contributed to Mower/MNGenWeb by Mark Ashley)

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Obituaries

Hans Olson 1913-1954

Hans Rudolph Olson was born May 3, 1913 in Nevada Township, the son of Hans and Stena Olson.

He attended school in District 11, Nevada Township, and in Lyle. He died April 14, fatally injured in a car accident on County Road 16, Lyle Township.

Funeral services were held April 27, at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church, near Lyle, the Rev. S. Gjervik officiating. Interment was in Six Mile Grove Cemetery with the Worlein Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Olson is survived by his mother, Mrs. Stena Lastine; three brothers: Richard, Harlan and Thorman; nine nieces and nephews, of the Lyle community.

[Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, 5-04-1954, page 13, col. 1 ]

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Andy Scott Olson, 52, passed from this life on a peaceful hill overlooking Carey Creek on Friday February 25.

Andrew was born February 12, 1959, to Truman and Donna Olson of Grand Meadow. He attended Sunday school at the Assembly of God church in Spring Valley and elementary and high school in Grand Meadow. He grew up working with his Father and brothers as a carpenter in the Grand Meadow area. In the 1980s, Andy worked at R & D Spray in Grand Meadow and enjoyed farming with Jim Anderson and Dan Gehling. He then attended RCTC and graduated the Building Utilities Mechanic program and held an A1 boilers and Universal Refrigeration licenses. Andy then began a career in charge of maintenance at Olmsted County Historical Society, Rochester Medical, Rochester Health Care and most recently enjoyed his position in the maintenance department of Halcon Corporation. Andy was a very accomplished mechanic and engineer and had built most of the tools and equipment that he used on his small Carey Creek farm.

He loved finding good deals at auctions and fixing them. He restored many tractors and pieces of equipment for himself and others. Andy enjoyed gardening and was proud of his flowers, especially his roses, and grew the pumpkins, squash and Indian corn that many in the Grand Meadow area enjoyed each fall. In addition to these things Andy loved the time he spent with his children, relaxing around a fire when the day’s labor was finished, working with his brothers, cold beans from the can and John Hardee’s BBQ.

He is survived by his parents, Truman and Donna Olson; paternal grandmother, Agnes Olson; brothers, Terence, Eric (Billie Jo), Alex and Samuel, all of Grand Meadow; wife, Julie; son, Scotty; daughter, Rosy; and two sons, Matthew, Jeremy and a granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by His paternal grandfather H. Edward Olson; maternal grandparents Floyd and Virginia Tienter of Spring Valley; uncle, Kieth Olson of Grand Meadow.

Funeral services for Andrew Scott “Andy” Olson will be held at 3 p.m. Friday March 4, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow with the Reverand Jane Timmerman officiating. Burial will be in the Bear Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to time of service at the funeral home on Friday. Working described Andy; a “good” weekend was one in which many things had “got done!” Condolences may be left at www.Hindtfuneralhomes.com.

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 2, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

IVAN DEWITT WILDER

Funeral Services For
Iver Wilder Sunday

Funeral services for Iver Wilder, who died during the winter months, and whose body has been in Oakwood Cemetery vault at Austin, since, will be held next Sunday afternoon, May 10, at 2:30 p.m. at Woodbury Cemetery.

There will be a brief service also at the Goslee Mortuary preceding for the family, conducted by the Reverend Harry Poll, pastor of the Church of Christ, Austin.

Mr. Wilder lived for many years in the Otranto vicinity, and the family is widely known because of it's long residence. Mr. Wilder was past middle life; is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.

[Mitchell County Press, May 7, 1936]

(The newspaper erroneously spelled his name as Iver instead of Ivan.)

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Leighton Elroy Turvold, 91, of Austin, Minnesota, died at the Austin Medical Center Friday afternoon, February 25, 2011.

Leighton Turvold was born on February 9, 1920, to Ole O. and Nellie (Sime) Turvold in Northwood, Iowa, where he attended school and married Jean Neste on April 27, 1939. Leighton joined the Navy on May 7, 1944, where he served in World War II as a machinist mate. After earning his third-class stripe, he was honorably discharged on March 18, 1956. He returned to the Midwest, making his home in Austin to work for Geo. A. Hormel and Company. Leighton and Jean raised two daughters before Leighton retired from Hormel after 42 years. Jean passed away in 1995. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, American Legion and VFW; and he enjoyed traveling, fishing and hunting. Leighton liked antique cars and loved dancing and big band music. He was proud to be on the Honor Flight in 2010.

Survivors include two daughters, Cynthia (Wayne) Moretz of Bozeman, Mont., Lana (Roger) Epley of Austin; five grandchildren, Belinda (John) Leister of Bozeman, Rodd (Kristy) Moretz of Fairbanks, Alaska, Sarah Epley of The Woodlands, Texas, Todd (Rebecca) Epley of Prior Lake, Anne (Chad) Moe of Hudson, Wisconsin; eight great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Carroll Low of Lake Mills, Iowa; sister-in-law, Edna Turvold of Northwood, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jean; three brothers and four sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 1, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Pastor Ron Barnett officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday at Worlein Funeral Home, Austin, and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald online, Feb. 28, 2011

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Alta Marie Farlinger, 96, of Lyle, Mower county, Minnesota, died at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Ansgar, Mitchell county, Iowa, on Friday afternoon, February 25, 2011.

Alta was born November 24, 1914, to Clyde C. and Orcelia (Culp) Dilling in Grand Meadow, Mower county, Minnesota. She grew up in Albert Lea and married John Henry Farlinger on Jan. 10, 1935, in Northwood, Iowa. They made their home in the London area until 1943, when they moved to a farm near Lyle and St. Ansgar. John passed away on Feb. 11, 1979. Alta was a homemaker, farmwife, and was very involved in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Lyle.

She taught Sunday school, bible school and sang in the choir. She also held many offices in WELCA and mission circles. She spent much of her time with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved to cook, travel and work in her flower garden. Alta went to the nursing home in October of 2007.

Survivors include one son, Earl (Marlene) Farlinger of St. Ansgar; four grandchildren, Craig (Pat) Farlinger of West Liberty, Iowa, Carlton (Lisa) Farlinger of St. Ansgar, Curtis (Lori) Farlinger of Sheridan, Wyo., Clinton (Amy) Farlinger of Cresco; eight great-grandchildren, Clare (Beth) LeMay, John (May) Farlinger, Caleb Farlinger, Marisa Farlinger, Melissa (Russell) Miller, Katie Farlinger, Amy Farlinger and Mark Farlinger; ten great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Pat Dilling of North Carolina, Alta (Norman) Joynes of Austin; brother-in-law, Clifford Medina of Florida; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; great-grandson, Lucas; nine brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 5, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Lyle with Pastor Barbara Finley-Shea officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Woodbury Cemetery, rural Lyle. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com. The family prefers memorials in lieu of flowers to donors choice.

Austin Daily Herald online, Tuesday, March 1, 2011

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Funeral services for Irving Kittleson of Austin, Minnesota, were held Friday, June 23, 1989 at First Lutheran church here with the Rev. Thomas Hughes officiating.

Irving Alden Kittleson was born to George and Mathilda Knutson Kittleson February 9, 1906 in St. Ansgar and was baptized and confirmed in the First Lutheran church. He graduated from St. Ansgar high school in 1923 and attended Iowa State University in Ames.

He worked in the Hess Drug Store, Northwestern Portland Cement Co. in Mason City, Kane Drug Store in Osage and the Dewey Portland Cement Co. in Davenport, retiring from there in 1970.

He enlisted in the Army March 2, 1942, being in the 121st Signal Radio Intelligence Co. during World War II, receiving purple stars for the Campaigns of Normany, North France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He earned the Good Conduct medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Victory medal, American Theatre Award, European, African and Middle East Theatre ribbons with one Silver Star, three overseas service bars and one service stripe.

Irving moved to Austin, Minn. in 1983. He died June 21, 1989 at the Adams Care Center in Adams, Minn.

Irving is survived by a brother and sister-in-law, Sherwin and Ila; a sister, Violet Hildreth of Austin, Minn.; two sister-in-law, Fannie Kittleson and Mabel Kittleson of Lake Crystal, Minn.; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Cora and Della, three brothers, Clayton, Glenn and Alton.

Burial was in First Lutheran cemetery, St. Ansgar.

[St. Ansgar Enterprise]

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Frank Wayne Dennison, Jr., 47, of Mapleview, died due to health complications early Tuesday morning at his home.

He was born on December 1, 1963, to Frank and the late Dianne (Hanson) Dennison. He attended school in Rushford and Austin. Frank worked for several employers over the years, including Hayfield Windows, Halcon in Stewartville, Bridon in Albert Lea and Merriam’s Midway. He married Dawn (Sullivan) Wiseman on July 25, 1998. He enjoyed music, fishing, camping, hunting, motorcycling, archery, treasure hunting at thrift stores and rummage sales and spending time with his friends and family. He enjoyed collecting many things, including miniatures, eagles, motorcycles, knives, dragons, wizards, swords, temporary tattoos and monkeys. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Survivors include his wife, Dawn Dennison of Austin; two sons, Dustin (Crystal) Dennison of Austin; Christopher Dennison of Austin; parents, Frank and Mary Dennison of Austin; grandparents, Betty and Odell Scrabeck of Austin; stepchildren, Karen Arnold (Jeremy Zlinske) of Dodge Center, David (Dena) Wiseman of Dodge Center, Patty (Jake) Youngmark of Austin, Richard (Michelle) Wiseman of Dodge Center; two sisters, Melissa (Douglas) Root of Austin, Katy Ashton (Scott Brechtel) of Austin; three brothers, Todd Dennison of New Ulm, Steven (Kristie) Dennison of Minnesota City, Chad Dennison (Amanda) Zemke of Rochestrer; sisters-in-law, LeAnn (Donovan) Mitchell of Austin, Beverly (Troy) Arnold of Hayfield; many grandchildren; nieces; nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dianne Hanson; grandparents, Dan Mensink, Frank and LaVera Dennison; mother and father-in-law, Robert and Dorothy Sullivan; Aunt, Donna Wencl; uncles, Herb Battin and Russell Mensink.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, March 4, 2011, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Todd Portinga, Associate in Ministry officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday at Worlein Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 2, 2011

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Carl Richard (Dick) Storry, 85, passed peacefully at his home Friday, February 18, 2011.

Carl was born in 1925 in Austin to Charles and Lillian Storry. He graduated from Austin High School and was in the military.

Survivors include his brother, Donald (Marlene) W. Storry; children, Derek and Miles Storry; nephew, Scott R. Storry, all of Arizona.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lillian Storry.

Funeral services were held Friday, Feb. 25 at Muller Memorial of White Bear Lake with Dan Schuster officiating. Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery with full military rites.

Austin Daily Herald online, Thur., March 3, 2011

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Angeline Maye Buschman DeBoer, 86, of Stewartville, died Monday, February 28, at the Stewartville Care Center.

Angeline DeBoer was born May 20, 1924, in Mazeppa to Silas and Elsie (Scholer) Gilbert. She moved to Elkton when she was 9 and later graduated from Elkton H.S. in 1942. She moved to Rockford, Illinois, to work at the National Lock Defense Plant during World War II, where she met Werner Buschman. They were married August 3, 1947, at the Grand Meadow Methodist Church. Angie and Werner resided in Grand Meadow where they owned Buschman Building Supply until 1976 and retired to Atlanta to be near their daughter, Sandie and her family.

Werner died March 5, 1990. Angie later married S. Lynn DeBoer on January 11, 1998, and then moved to Stewartville. She was a life-long member of the United Methodist Church and was a long-time member of the American Legion Auxillary. She enjoyed gardening, traveling, bowling and sewing. Her real joy in life was spending time with family and friends.

Surviors include her husband, Lynn; two daughters, Sandra (Richard) of Atlanta and Carol (Paul Widegren) Gratton of Harrison, Arkansas; grandchildren, Elise (Matt), Alex (Amanda), Brendon (Heidi), Andrew (Lydia) and Adair (Nick); six great-grandchildren; step-daughter, Mary (Robert) Howard and stepson, Thomas (Kathy) DeBoer and their eight grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Ruth; brother, Donald; nephew Stanley Gilbert.

Funeral services for Angie will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 7, at the United Methodist Church in Dexter with Rev. Karen Ashton officiating. Burial will follow at the Dexter Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville and one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday morning. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville.

Austin Daily Herald online, Thur., March 3, 2011

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Birth: Sep. 11, 1913
Death: Feb. 11, 1979

Funeral Services for a Lyle area farmer, John Henry Farlinger, 65, who died at Mitchell County Memorial hospital February 11, were held February 14 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Lyle with the Rev. Harold Luecke officiating.

John H. Farlinger, son of George and Mathilda Farlinger was born in St. Paul, Minn. September 11, 1913. Following the death of his mother he made his home with Andrew and Ingeborg Knudsen until his marriage to Alta Dilling of Albert Lea, Minn. in 1935. One son, Earl was born to them.

Mr. Farlinger worked a short period of time at Wilson's Packing Plant in Albert Lea, then was employed at the Andrew Knudsens until 1942 when he started farming for himself in Union township near Lyle where he resided until his death.

He is survived by his wife, Alta and his son, Earl and daughter-in-law, Marlene, and five grandsons, Craig, Carlton, Curtis, Clinton, and Craig and Craig's wife, Pat; two sisters, Mrs. Gladys Schlie of Oklahoma City, Okla,; Mrs. Clifford (Mildred) Nelson of Oakland, Minn.; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Norman (Alta) Joynes of Albert Lea, Minn and nieces and nephews.

Burial was in Woodbury Cemetery west of Lyle with Rev. Luecke in charge of the committal services.

Burial:
Woodbury Cemetery, Lyle, Mower County, Minnesota.

Credit: K. Pike (findagrave)

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Genevieve Josephine Kruger, 76, of Conger, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 3, 2011, at her home.

Genevieve Josephine Kruger was born on May 31, 1934, at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin to Louis and Anne (Vomacka) Chapek of Oakland Township. She was a 1952 graduate of Austin High School. On June 20, 1954, she was united in marriage to William E. Kruger at Oakland Lutheran Church and resided in Albert Lea. In 1962, Genevieve and William moved to rural Conger. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Conger, the WELCA and Miriam Circle. She served in various capacities in the church and enjoyed the fellowship with her church family. She had been a past employee of the Register of Deeds in Austin, County Recorder in Albert Lea, Wilson and Company Office, Albert Lea Abstract Company and Albert Lea Medical Center. Genevieve treasured family gatherings, reading, swimming, walking, and recently found pleasure in learning to play hymns on the organ. She took pride in canning vegetables and fruits from her husband’s garden and orchard to share with her family.

Survivors include her husband, William E. Kruger; children, Ronald Kruger and wife Jane of Conger, Debra Mortensen and husband Benjamin of Albert Lea, Robert Kruger and wife Shari of Lonsdale and Katherine Kruger and Leo Lastovica of Blair, Neb.; grandchildren, Kelly (Kruger) and husband Matt Watkins of Pipestone, Amanda Kruger of St. Paul, Paige and Logan Kruger of Lonsdale; great-granddaughter, Shelby Watkins of Pipestone; sisters, Louise Peterson of Blooming Prairie and Joyce Petersen of Albert Lea; sisters-in-law, Joyce Chapek of Albert Lea, Lois Chapek of Albert Lea, LaVonne Froiland of Oakland and Helen Pearson of Owatonna; brother-in-law, Harold Kruger and wife Charlene of Oakland; aunt, Rose Foss; uncle, Stanley Vomacka; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Genevieve was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Arthur Chapek and Alvin Chapek; brothers-in-law, Richard Peterson, Kermit Froiland and Wayne Wood; sister-in-law, Delores Wood; nephews, Randy Chapek, Andy Chapek, Gary Peterson, Stephen Froiland and John Wood; and niece, Pamela Peterson.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2011, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Conger. The Reverand Daphne Hamborg will officiate. Interment will be at the Conger Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 6, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church. To sign the guest book, go to www.bayviewfuneral.com. Genevieve will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Blessed be her memory.

Austin Daily Herald online, Friday, March 4, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Dean M. White, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, February 27, 2011, under the compassionate care of Grand Meadow Health Care and Austin Center Hospice.

Dean was born in Wilmot, South Dakota, on May 8, 1921, to Floyd and Edna (Peterson) White. He graduated from Wilmot High School and attended the Minnesota School of Business. He served proudly as a U.S. Army Paratrooper for three years during World War II with the 11th Army Airborne. He made 99 combat jumps, including the Los Banos raid behind enemy lines, which liberated thousands of civilian and military POWs in the Philippines.

Dean was employed for 43 years by Geo A. Hormel Co. of Austin and retired as claims manager in the corporate office.

The city of Austin honored Dean as volunteer of the year in 2002 for his work in the Mower County Law Enforcement Reserve Unit for 33 years.

Dean was preceded in death by his wife and childhood sweetheart of 65 years, Bobbie. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Philip Solberg of Chippewa Falls, Wis.; grandchildren, Jennifer Solberg of Chippewa Falls and Matthew Solberg of Phoenix.

“I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now for I shall not pass this way again.”

Fulfilling Dean’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sat., March 5, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Donovan Carl Scheer passed away on March 2, 2011.

Donovan Carl Scheer will be remembered by friends and family as a story teller, a man exhibiting an inherent ability to understand mechanical devices, a lover of history, a motor cycle enthusiast, a firearms hobbyist and always a good one to have in a fishing boat.

Donovan lived an unusual life enjoying both the solitude of his shop, where he was happiest tinkering the time away always creatively fixing or improving an object, and also immensely enjoying visiting family and friends. The last decade of his life he truly led the life of a social butterfly.

Following his early years in Winnetoon, Nebraska, northern Iowa and southern Minnesota, Donovan amassed a wealth of stories. Donovan was a Korean War veteran having served in the U.S. Navy out of San Francisco, Calif. from 1950 to 1954. He greatly enjoyed the ports of call made around the Pacific and many stories owe their origin to those years.

Donovan imparted to his six children a “get it done” attitude, a love of nature and the natural world, an interest in the historical as well as the pre-historical and an ability to work with both hands and mind.

Donovan believed that a relationship with Christ was exemplified by a life of service. Whether serving the elderly by maintaining furnaces, remodeling church bathrooms, or serving kitchen duty for community and church dinners, Donovan felt all were acts of worship.

His friends and family will miss Donovan but always remember his stories.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday March 7, 2011, at St John’s Lutheran Church — Elkton with the Rev. Liz Erickson officiating. Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. Friends may call at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow on Sunday March 6, from 3 to 5 p.m. Condolences may be left on line at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sat., March 5, 2011 NOTE: According to zabasearch.com, Donovan was born in January 1929.

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Betty Lou (Brown) Mather, 85, formerly of Austin, Coon Rapids and Longville, Minnesota, died, Sunday Feb. 27, 2011 surrounded by family at her home in Ramsey, Minnesota.

Betty was born on November 26, 1925, in Greybull, Wyoming, to Viva (Couding) and E. Aebischer (biological father). Betty grew up in Austin and attended Austin High School. She graduated in 1943 and continued through Kahler Hospital School of nursing in Rochester, where she graduated from in 1947 and served as supervisor of surgery at Colonial Hospital in Rochester.

It was always said that after accepting a phone call from Joe Mather while working a late shift as a nurse, she agreed to a blind date as long as it would be a double date. They married June 10, 1949. Joe died July 22, 2009. Betty returned to nursing in chemical Dependency at Mercy and Unity Hospitals from 1979-1992 and retired in 1993 to Longville/Leach Lake, MInnesota. She enjoyed crosswords, fishing, boating, reading, dogs and the casino.

She is survived by children, Kristine (David) Diemer, Brian Mather, Jennifer (Jason) Edgarton; grandchildren, Michael, Angela (Theron), Taren, Cassandra, Samantha, Megan, Jay, Sarah (Justin), Joshua, Karly; great-grandchildren, Isabell, Sophia, Riley and Zachary.

She was preceded in death by siblings, James Anson Brown and Judy Ann Brown, Uzlik Kearney; Dixie (Elmer “Bud”) Mytten and Jerry (Jesse) Bootenhoff; sister-in-law, Karen Brown and brother-in-law, John Kearney; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Friday, March 4, at Washburn-McReavy Coon Rapids Chapel with Pastor Jason Berry officiating. A special thank you goes to Allina Hospice group and all of our family and friends for the support and love shown.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sat., March 5, 2011

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Ellen George Whiteis, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died on March 4, 2011, at St. Marks Lutheran Home in Austin.

Ellen was born July 24, 1921, at Austin, the daughter of George Christopher and Martha Dora (Cummings) Kokenougles. She attended Austin High School and was married to Obert Hartwik Whiteis on Sept. 8, 1946, in Austin. Ellen was a homemaker and a member of Christ Episcopal Church where she sang in the choir and was a member of the church guild. She enjoyed a number of hobbies, including reading, dancing, music, fishing trips and road trips.

Ellen was preceded in death by two sons, George and Paul Whiteis; parents, George and Martha Kokenougles; sister, Feliao Kokenougles; brother, Paul Kokenougles and brother-in-law LeRoy Sigstad.

She is survived by her husband: Obert H. Whiteis, Austin; children: Suzanne Wilson and Dale Hofius, Blooming Prairie, Martha and Thomas Larsen, Byron, Michael and Marilyn Whiteis, Sioux Falls; daughter-in-law: Margie Jacobson, Austin; grandchildren: Thomas Wilson, Sarah Ball, Amy DeVries, Tammy Julius, Melissa Bonnes, Robert Whiteis, Emily Hamilton, Alex Whiteis, Jason Larsen and Andrea Squier; 16 great-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren; sister, Marie Sigstad of Austin, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel on Tuesday, March 8 with the Reverend Pam Aandahl Solberg officiating. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Friends may call for one hour before the service on Tuesday. Casket bearers will be Thomas Wilson, Alex Whiteis, Jason Larsen, Austin Kuhnert, Evan Kuhnert and Jaden Julius.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sat., March 5, 2011

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Barbara Ann Beck Hedberg, 84, of Bloomington, died Friday, March 4, 2011, at North Memorial Hospice in Robbinsdale, Minn.

Barbara Hedberg was born on March 25, 1926, in Austin, to Edward and Magdalena (Wendel) Beck. She was valedictorian at St. Augustine High School and earned her Master’s degree in liturgical music from Notre Dame University. She was choral director at Visitation Church in Minneapolis from 1974 to 2006 and worked in social services from 1972 to 1995. Barbara’s passions in life included music, education and animals.

She is survived by her son, Jared (Kris) Hedberg Jr. of Minneapolis; friend, Deanna Nickerson of Bloomington; brothers, Bob Beck of Austin, Paul Beck of San Fransisco; many nieces; nephews; extended family and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jared Hedberg Sr.; parents, Edward and Magdalena.

A memorial service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at Visitation Church, 4530 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis with Father Thomas F.A. O’Brien officiating.

Cremation Society of Minnesota is in charge of arrangements.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD online, Tue., March 8, 2011

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The Lord took our angel, Sharon Cimmiyotti, 67, to Heaven on March 6, 2011, at Mitchell County Memorial Hospice Center after a courageous battle with cancer.

Sharon was born October 19, 1943, in Austin, to Glen and Ruth (Heydt) Lowe. She graduated from Rose Creek High School in 1961. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Gordy Cimmiyotti, on August 5, 1961, in Tijuana, Mexico. They enjoyed 49 and a half years of marriage. She spent more than 40 years working hand-in-hand building their business, Gordy’s Repair and Implement in Stacyville.

She enjoyed traveling, camping, biking, racing and going to casinos. She enjoyed spending time wither her family, especially her grandkids and being a mom to all of her camping friends.

Survivors include her husband, Gordy; children, Glen (Lori) Cimmiyoti of Stacyville, Corky (Steve) Follmuth of Stacyville, Nita (Al) Hinrickson of Pocahontas, Iowa and Justin (Angela) Cimmiyotti of Osage, Iowa; 13 grandchildren, Amber, Kayla, Cari, Garrett, Jennifer, Mackenzie, Logan, Dillon, Alicia, Josh, Jacob, Jordyn and Maggie, three great-grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, special friend, Judy Hage; three brothers and a sister.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Don “Red” Lowe; sister-in-law, Mary Lowe.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 10, at Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville with the Reverand John Moser and Reverand Thomas Loomis officiating. Burial will be in Visitation Cemetery, Stacyville. Visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schroeder & Sites Funeral Home, 207 S. School Street, St. Ansgar. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Mayo Clinic for lung cancer research.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD online, Tue., March 8, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Anna Mildred Kaput, 93, of Austin, Mower county, Minnesota, died on Monday, March 7, 2011, at the Austin Medical Center.

Anna Miller was born on October 31, 1917 in Stacyville, Mitchell county, Iowa, to Joseph and Elizabeth (Smith) Miller. She was united in marriage to Reent Kaput Jr. He preceded her in death on November 11, 1979.

Anna was a member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She enoyed crocheting and watching television.

Survivors include her sister, Irene Bulson of Austin; nieces and nephews, Bernadine (Robert) Warren of Hudson, Colo., Maxine (Don) Antl of Owatonna, Carol Penkava of Lyle, Marvin (Janet) Reinartz of Longmont, Colo., Deb (Bob) Kolb of Austin, Ronald (Georgia) Bulson of Bonita Springs, Fla., Bob (Carolyn) Bulson, Pineville, Ariz.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Josephine Reinartz; brother, Jerome Miller.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, March 11, at Mayer Funeral Home with Deacon Rich Aho officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at Mayer Funeral Home on Friday. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery. The casket bearers will be Bob Kolb, Don Antl, David Antl, Allen Penkava, Michelle Penkava, Melanie Penkava.

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 9, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Marcia Whitlock, 56, of Muscatine, passed away March 5, 2011, at her home in Muscatine.

Marcia Ann Tollefson was born April 3, 1954, in Austin, to John and Agnes Mary (Schneider) Tollefson. She attended Austin public schools and graduated from Austin High School in 1973. Marcia was united in marriage to Roger Whitlock Sr. in Muscatine on November 15, 1975. She worked at Lumber Mart for many years. Later she provided childcare for many families. She enjoyed sewing, embroidery, quilting, reading, outdoors, wilderness, baking, cooking, pictures and letters from friends and relatives. Marcia had a heart of gold and always put her family first.

Marcia will be deeply missed by her husband, Roger of Muscatine; daughter, Jessica Whitlock; step-son, Roger (Beverly) Whitlock, Jr. of Muscatine; three grandchildren, Heather, Charles and Roger Whitlock III; five great-grandchildren, Liberty Yordt, Gabrella Chapman, Aries Crees, Trevian and Tanner Whitlock; seven brothers and sisters, James (Lovonne) Tollefson of Forest City, Iowa, Dorothy (Dan) Dunn, Greg Tollefson of Faribault, Rose (Ray) Theissen of Waseca, Tom (Helen) Tollefson of Waseca, Theresa (Terry) Hacker of Brownsdale, Kathleen (James) Sack of Faribault; and special friends, Linda Sonnenberg (Mangles) and Rose Buller.

She was preceded in death by her parents and infant sister.

“If you can only remember me with crying and tears, don’t remember me at all. Remember me with smiles and laughter becasue that is how I will remember you all.”

Graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, March 11, 2011, at Greenwood Cemetery. Casketbearers will be Charles Whitlock and Roger Whitlock, III. Honorary Casketberer will be David Kirk. Burial will be in Green wood Cemeter. Following the interment, a time of food and fellowship will be held at the Pear City Outreach. Visitation will be 10 a.m. Friday, March 11, at the Geo. M. Wittich-Lewis Home for Funeral and Cremation Services. A memorial fund has been established at the funeral home in Marcia’s name. Sympathy notes may be left for the family at www.lewisfuneralhomes.com.

Pallbearers will be Charles Whitlock, Roger Whitlock III, James Tollefson, Tom Tollefson, Ray Thissen and Dan Dunn.

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 9, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Myrles LaJune Ferch, 87, of Austin, died on Monday, March 7, 2011, at Our House Memory Care.

She was born June 18, 1923, to Henry and Ida K. (Schroeder) Dimmel in Alma City, Minn., where she grew up and attended Trinity Lutheran School. She married Donald Earl Ferch on April 20, 1942, in Janesville and worked as a welder on liberty ships in Vancouver, Wash. while Don was in the service. They moved to Austin in 1948. Myrles was an Avon lady. A member of Austin Country Club for 46 years and Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Myrles was active in sewing circle and ladies aid. She visited the sick and sent cards, liked traveling and camping trips up north and loved to play golf.

Survivors include her husband, Donald Ferch of Austin; four sons, Dennis (Drucilla) Ferch of Owatonna, Ronald (Debbie) Ferch of Austin, Randall (Leah) Ferch of Vancouver, Wash.; Craig (Jodie) Ferch of Austin; 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Ross (Elaine) Dimmel of Spokane, Wash., Loren Dimmel of St. Peter, Elmer (Marilyn) Dimmel of Austin, Earl (Mary Jane) Dimmel of Faribault; one sister, Belva Brown of Faribault; brother-in-law, Larry Keep of Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Victor and Darald Dimmel; sister, Helen Keep; sisters-in-law, Dorothy, Edna and Lorraine Dimmel, Ethel Ferch; brothers-in-law, Ralph Brown and Gordon Ferch.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 12, 2011, at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor David C. Fleischmann officiating. Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday at Worlein Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery, Austin. The family prefers memorials to Alzheimer’s Association or Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 9, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Palmer Erickson, 92, of Austin, died Monday, March 7, 2011, at Austin Medical Center.

He was born on December 4, 1918, to Erick and Johanna (Toset) Erickson in London, Minnesota. After completing his education at Lansing School, Palmer worked at Lansing Creamery. After that he worked for the railroad laying track before getting a job at Geo. A. Hormel & Company. He married Lois Slater on January 19, 1946. Lois died on November 6, 1964. Palmer married Norma Dalager on June 17, 1967, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church where he remained a member the remainder of his life. He also belonged to the American Legion; Moose Club, Eagles and several bowling leagues. Besides bowling, he enjoyed spending time with his family at the lake and fishing. Palmer loved telling stories and jokes.

Survivors include his wife, Norma Erickson of Austin; nine children, Mary Jo (Clarence) Liebfried of Rochester, Ed (Dea) Erickson of Denver, Colo., Gloria (Mark) Markkula of Hayward, John (Bonnie) Dalager of Austin, Judy (Harry) Wangen of Hayward, Pam (Steve) Bjoraker of Golden Valley, Paul (Misty) Erickson of Reno, Nev., Cindy (Jack) Cottrel of Oakland, Dan Dalager of Austin; 10 grandchildren, Melissa, Trisha, Jason, Scott, Cody, Mari, Derek, Cari, Clay and Robert; nine great grandchildren; one sister, Lila Green of Los Angeles, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Lois; two sons, Steven and Alan; siblings, Ida, Roy, Ethel and Chet; grandchild, Tammy Liebried.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 11, 2011, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin with Associate in Ministry Todd Portinga officiating. Visitation if from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment is at Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald online, Wed., March 9, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Delphin John Freund, 77, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday evening, March 8, 2011, at the Adams Healthcare Center.

Del was born June 22, 1933, in Johnsburg, Minnesota, to Isidore and Katherine (Klapperich) Freund. He spent his youth in Johnsburg, attending St. John the Baptist Catholic School and working in his parent’s general store. He attended high school in Adams and graduated in 1951. Del enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1953 and served in the Korean War in Okinawa for two years.

On October 4, 1955, he was joined in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Rech, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin. Del worked for the Golden Dairy for 15 years. In 1968, he became an agent with American Family Insurance where he worked until his retirement in 1998 after experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke. He was a longtime member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church where he served as a lector and communion minister for many years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion and Moose Lodge.

Del was an avid baseball player and played first base on his high school team. After graduation he continued to play ball with the Johnsburg Johnnies. In later years, his interest turned to the Twins. He visited the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., on one of his many visits across the country with his wife. He also participated in the Boston Red Sox Baseball Fantasy Camp in Fort Myers, Florida, when he was 62.

Del loved dancing, playing cards and camping with family and friends. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He traveled across Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota to attend athletic and performance events of his grandchildren. A side trip to a casino for a few hands of black jack was usually on the itinerary as well. Del and Phyllis went on many casino junkets with their camper.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis of Austin; children, Jean (Rod) McDermott of Austin, Lori (Doug) Dahl of North Aurora, Ill., Dale (Sally) Freund of Cottage Grove, Wis., Renee (Don) Simmons of Marion, Iowa, Peggy (Larry) Besser of Sauk Rapids; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Ardella Dahle of Placerville, Calif., Lucille (Kenneth) Blaser of Osage, Iowa, Virginia (Dean) Elliot of Adams, Bertilla Noble of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mary Orth of Pine River, Angela Smith of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; brothers, John (Jeanne) Freund of Winona, Raphael (Ruth) Freund of Johnsburg; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Isidore and Katherine Freund; sister, Lucina Blaser; brothers-in-law, Don “Butch” Smith, Larry Orth, Howard Dahle, and Harlan Rech.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 6:30 p.m. wake service on Friday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. and also one hour before the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91.

Memorials are preferred to St. Edward’s Catholic Church or the Adams Healthcare Center.

Austin Daily Herald online, Thur., March 10, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb

 

Helen Margaret Swank, 101, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, March 8, 2011, at Sacred Heart Care Center where she had been a resident for several years.

Helen was born May 13, 1909, to Fred and Mary (Gagen) Leek in Austin. She was the third child in a family of five daughters. Helen was baptized and confirmed at St. Augustine Church and was also married there to Edward “Bob” Swank on January 29, 1928. They were blessed with four sons: Ronald, Kenneth, Paul, and Leo.

Helen worked for the Hormel Company for 27 and a half years and retired in 1972. She loved traveling, both in the United States and abroad. Helen liked to dance, knit, and read until her eyesight failed. She was an avid bridge player and had a sharp wit and keen sense of humor.

Helen enjoyed her many friends and was always ready “to go out for lunch,” or shopping. She loved a good joke and often had a twinkle in her eye as she told one herself.

Helen had a large extended family. She cherished the visits of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren when they came to see her at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Survivors include her daughters-in-law, Theresa Swank and JoAnn Swank of Austin; half-brother, Kenneth Leek of Beaver Creek, Ore.; 16 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband; sons and daughter-in-law, Ronald (Winnie), Kenneth, Paul, and Leo; great-grandson.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 2 p.m. Friday, March 11, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal and Father Donald Zenk officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

The casket bearers will be Douglas Swank, Kevin Swank, Nathan Swank, and Michael Swank. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.

Austin Daily Herald online, Thur., March 10, 2011

©2011 MNGenWeb