James (Jim) Dunbar Flannery, 81, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, passed away from a heart attack September 21, 2011, in Kailua, Hawaii.

An outdoor gathering of family and friends was held at Jim and Jo’s home September 25, 2011.

Jim was born December 3, 1929, in Austin, to Leonard and Margaret Flannery.

Jim served in the Air Force after graduation from Austin High School in 1948. After military service, he attended and graduated from Austin Junior College and the University of Minnesota. He taught in Austin and Fremont, Neb. Upon returning to Austin he was a teacher, administrator, and ultimately President of Austin Junior College. He was proud of his work with the college, the senior citizens and the community. His avocation was remodeling his home and building an octagonal, two-story cabin with his son, John, and many family members.

He loved playing cards with old friends and was available for bridge at the drop of a hat. Jim was a doer who worked well with people. His leadership and friendship will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne of 24 years; sons, James (Cecilia), John (Nancy); daughters, Cyndi Myers (John), Peggy Swanson (Bill); sisters, Mary Johnsen (Michael Bill) Nancy Pedersen (Kenneth); stepsons, David and Doug Pertz; stepdaughter, Cathy Carter; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by sister, Patricia Brooks (Richard).

A scholarship is being developed with the Riverland Community College Foundation in Austin to honor Jim’s memory and his many years as President of Austin J.C. (now Riverland).

Austin Daily Herald, Friday, Oct. 7, 2011

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Ella Marie Fisher Grunewald, 97, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, September 26, 2011, at Comforcare Good Samaritan Center.

Marie was born on April 24, 1914, in Carthage, Illinois, to Earl and Nellie (Bird) Ellison. On July 1, 1939, she married the love of her life, Henry J. Grunewald, in Warsaw, Ill.. They resided in the Quad Cities and moved to Austin in 1954.

Marie was very hospitable to everyone she met. She enjoyed cooking and loved to spend time with her family. She was very involved in her church and her community.

Marie was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Henry, three brothers and one sister.

Marie is survived by her children: Phil (Mary) Grunewald, Rochester, Minnesota; Elizabeth Loescher, Atlanta, Ga.; Nancy Elliott, Winchester, Virginia; Jim (Nancy) Grunewald, Austin; 14 grandchildren; 40 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Septe,ber 30, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. There will be a 5 p.m. CCW Rosary and a 7 p.m. prayer service at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary where friends may call from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday. Friends may also call at the church on Friday for one hour before the service. Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton, Ill.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to the Good Samaritan Society-Comforcare, Austin.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sept. 28, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Glen Stanley Nelson, 94, of Charter House in Rochester, and formerly of Austin, died Monday morning September 26, 2011, at Saint Marys Hospital in Rochester, following a brief illness.

He was born January 17, 1917, in Osage, Iowa, to Ole and Maude (Edge) Nelson. Glen grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School in 1935. On Aug. 30, 1936, he married Clara May Torgerson. From 1944-1946 he served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II in the South Pacific. He owned and operated Nelson’s Super Market in Austin for many years. He was also owner of Nelson’s Wheel Estates mobile home park.

Glen was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the American Legion, V.F.W., Elks Lodge, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and a leader in the Associated Grocers organization. He will be remembered as a caring husband, father, and grandfather who had a love of flying airplanes, and enjoyed conversations on current events and personal life with friends, family and staff.

Survivors include his children, Leighton S. (Barbara) Nelson of Dunnellon, Fla., and Rochester, and Audrey M. Nelson of Punta Gorda, Fla., and Rochester; five grandchildren, Janell Ann Nelson, Craig Bernatz, Scott Bernatz, Lori Loverink and Brad Bernatz; 11 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one nephew; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ole and Maude Nelson, and his wife Clara, after 73 years of marriage.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 30, 2011, at the First United Methodist Church in Austin, with Pastor Marilee Benson officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin, with military rites by American Legion Post 91 and V.F.W. Post 1216.

The family prefers memorials to Mayo Clinic for Projects on Aging or the Charter House Benevolent Care Fund. Memorial donations for either of these can be mailed to Department of Development, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905.

Services performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

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

[ Rochester Post-Bulletin online 9/28/2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Virginia “Jenny” Myhre, 86, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Saturday, September 24, 2011, at her home.

Virginia May Brandt was born February 22, 1925, in Austin, to Michael and Edna (Priem) Brandt. She grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School. On Nov. 24, 1946, she married Robert O. Myhre in Lyle, Minn. They lived in Austin until 1953 when they moved to Lyle and in 1960 they moved back to Austin where they have made their home. They enjoyed fishing, boating, dancing, and going to clubs. After Bob retired in 1985, they wintered in Arizona. Jenny was a homemaker and member of Grace Lutheran Church.

Survivors include her husband, Robert O. Myhre, Austin; son, Robert M. (Nancy) Myhre, Bella Vista, Ark.; granddaughter, Brittney Myhre, Kansas City; great-grandson, Tristan Myhre, Kansas City; brother, Glenn (Lorene) Brandt, Austin, nieces, nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Edna Brandt, and son, Roger in 1967.

Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, at Grace Lutheran Church with Rev. Jeffrey Forbes officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. The 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, Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011

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Funeral services for Derwin Lester will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 3, 2011, at the United Church of Grand Meadow with the Rev. Karen Ashton officiating. Burial will take place in the Grand Meadow Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow and will continue at the church on Monday for one hour before the service.

Mr. Lester, 88, of Grand Meadow, died Wednesday evening at the Austin Medical Center.

Derwin Ernest Lester was born March 18, 1923, in Goldfield, Iowa, to Harry and Beatrice (Jones) Lester. He graduated from Goldfield High School in 1942 and helped his father on the farm. He enlisted in the Army during World War II and was drafted into service for the Korean War, serving from Sept. 1950, to Sept. 1951. He was awarded a Combat Infantry Badge as well as the Purple Heart.

Derwin married Patricia Jacobsen on Feb. 14, 1954, and they farmed near Goldfield and Clarion, Iowa. In 1959, they moved to a farm near Grand Meadow and farmed until 1985, when they retired and moved to town. Derwin enjoyed making wooden trains and giving them away. He also had a small garden where he raised radishes. He belonged to the American Legion, Korean War Veterans in Rochester and the United Church of Grand Meadow.

Derwin is survived by his wife, Patricia of Grand Meadow; daughters, Lola (Bryan) Schultz of Blue Earth, Joanne Ronne of Grand Meadow, and Laura Huffman of Lake City; two sons, Daniel (Robin) Lester and Kelvin (Deborah) Lester, both of Grand Meadow; grandchildren Valerie (Shane) Seifermann, Darin, Jennifer and Ashley Ronne, Natasha Lester, Dusty (John) Hammonds, Susan Lester and (fiancé Brady Unverzagt), April and Amber Shones and Kiara Lester; step-grandchildren, April (Phay) Phoat, Misty (Jarvis) Summers, Aaron Oleson and (Fiancé Dianna Fodness); one great-grandson and seven step-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Norman (Elaine) Lester and Leo (Bev) Lester both of Goldfield, Iowa; two sisters, Arlene (Curtis) Terhark of St. Ansgar, Iowa, and Patricia McKnight of Brandon, S.D.; and sister-in-law Marvel Lester of Milaca, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Floyd, Arnold and Duane and his sisters, Verla, Marilyn and Yvonne.

Condolences may be left at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.

[Austin Daily Herald, Friday, Sept. 30, 2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Birth: 24 Aug 1869 in Austin, Minnesota
Death: 3 Nov 1956 in Hennepin Co., Minnesota

EDWARD WILLIAMS DECKER

With an equipment that included no college training and no special advantages Edward Williams Decker started out in the business world and soon passed on to positions of executive control, subsequently bending his energies largely to organization, to constructive effort and administrative direction. He has for a number of years been one of the most prominent representatives of the banking fraternity in Minneapolis as president of the Northwestern National Bank and has long been connected with that little group of distinctively representative business men in the Twin Cities who have been not only promoters of various important business enterprises but at all times have been cognizant of their duties and obligations in regard to the public welfare and have utilized their opportunities for promoting public progress with notably splendid results.

A native of Minnesota, Edward Williams Decker was born in Austin, on August 24, 1869, his parents being Jacob S. and Mary Ann H. (Smith) Decker, both of whom were of Holland Dutch lineage. The progenitors of the American branch of the Decker family came to this country during the colonial epoch in our history and settled where now stands the village of Esopus, on the banks of the Hudson river in New York. About 1720 representatives of the name removed to the New Jersey side of the Delaware river and it was at Flatbrookville that the parents of Edward W. Decker were born, and there they remained until after their marriage.

Attracted by the opportunities of the west, they removed to Minnesota and settled on a farm in Mower county, near Austin, so that the youthful experiences of Edward W. Decker were those of the farm bred boy whose time is divided between the acquirement of a district school education, the pleasures of the playground and the work of the fields. At a later period he continued his education as a high school student in Austin and was there graduated with the class of 1887. He sought the broader and more varied business opportunities of Minneapolis when he started out to make his initial step in the business world, securing the position of messenger in the Northwestern National Bank of this city.

He early learned the eternal principle that industry wins and industry became the beacon light of his life. His diligence and faithfulness soon gained him recognition that resulted in promotion and after filling intermediate positions he was elected assistant cashier of the Metropolitan Bank of Minneapolis on the 13th of September, 1895, while in the succeeding year he was advanced to the position of cashier. On the 8th of December, 1900, the Northwestern National Bank, with which he had first been employed, offered him its cashiership and he accepted, for in the larger institution he had greater chance for advancement because of his enlarged responsibilities and duties. On the 1st of July, 1903, he was elected vice president and general manager of the Northwestern National Bank and was made a member of the directorate. His election to the presidency followed on the 1st of January, 1912, and he has remained the chief executive of the institution since that time.

In the meantime his efforts had been extended in other directions. On the 10th of May, 1910, he had been elected presi­dent of the Minnesota Loan and Trust Company and he is now chairman of its board of directors. He is likewise a director of the Northwestern National Life Insurance Company and the first vice president and a director of the Twin City Rapid Transit Company. He served several terms as president of the Minneapolis Clearing House Association and he has been a leading member of the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce. In a word, his activities have ever been of a character that have contributed to the progress and prosperity of the community, through the advance­ment of its commercial, industrial and financial interests.

On the 24th of February, 1892, Mr. Decker was united in marriage to Miss Susie May Spaulding, a daughter of W. A. Spaulding of Minneapolis, and they have become the parents of a son and four daughters, as follows: Edward Spaulding; Margaret, who died in 1918; Katharine; Susan; and Elizabeth.

A Congregationalist in religious faith, Mr. Decker belongs to the Plymouth church, of which his wife is also a faithful and earnest member. Their interests extend to all those forces which make for the social, intellectual and moral progress of the community and Mr. Decker belongs to the Minneapolis, Minikahda, Automobile and Chicago clubs. He has membership in the Minneapolis Society of Fine Arts, also in the Minnesota Society of New York and is on the Citizens Staff of John A. Rawlins Post, G. A. R. He is a thirty-second degree Mason who has been an active worker in the order, exemplifying in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft. He labored most earnestly to promote the Liberty Loan, Red Cross and other drives during the World war and served on the com­mittees having this work in charge.

A newspaper writer has said of him: "He lives and moves and breathes in an atmosphere of optimism. It is a part of his nature and incidentally is in no small measure responsible for the gratifying success he has made in the banking business. To the hundreds with whom he comes in contact daily he is always the same cheery, jovial man, radiating happiness and contentment. Another attribute of Mr. Decker is his democracy. Having come up from the people, he still regards himself as one of them, and it is to his immense credit that in spite of the high position he has attained he never holds himself aloof from the most humble. He is the most approachable of men, mixes with all classes of citizens and is as cordial toward the poorest patron of the bank as the wealthiest and most important." He stands as a man among men, actuated by a most kindly spirit, by advanced principles and a lofty patriotism.

SOURCE: History of Minneapolis, Gateway to the Northwest; Chicago-Minneapolis, The S J Clarke Publishing Co, 1923; Edited by: Rev. Marion Daniel Shutter, D.D., LL.D.; Volume I - Shutter (Historical); volume II - Biographical; volume III - Biographical Vol II, pg 86-89.

(Research credit: Kathy Pike)

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Raymond F. Rindfleisch, 86, of Austin, died Wednesday, October 5, 2011, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin.

Raymond Rindfleisch was born on October 24, 1925, in Cook County, Illinois, to Fred and Marion Rindfleisch. He graduated from Heron Lake High School in 1943. From 1943 to 1945, Ray served in the Army Paratroops. In 1951, Ray moved to Austin, Minn. He was a painter and owned his own business — Ray’s Painting and Decorating — for a number of years. He loved all sports and sports stats, pool and reading.

Survivors include two sons, Thomas Rindflesch, Washington D.C., Bruce (Nancy) Rindflesch, Austin; two grandchildren, Shana (Roy) Daily, Northfield, Minn., Aaron (Jodi) Rindflesch, Rochester, Minn.; six great-grandchildren; half brothers and sisters.

Family services and burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery in Heron Lake, Minn., at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the Disabled Veterans.

Austin Daily Herald, Friday, Oct. 7, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Milo Dean Prindle, age 74, died on Thursday, September 29, 2011, at the West Wind Village in Morris.

Milo, son of Donald and Marie (Sweazy) Prindle, was born June 17, 1937, in Austin, Mower county, Minnesota. Milo grew up and received his schooling in the Austin area, graduating from Austin High School in 1956. In June of 1956, Milo enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving until June of 1960. On April 23, 1960, he was united in marriage to Joan Mottes in Downey, Calif. by the Rev. Arthur Ash.

Following their marriage, the couple lived in Albert Lea, Wayzata and Lake Mills, Iowa, where Milo worked as a tool and die maker. They later moved to Buffalo where Milo began working for the Wright-Hennepin Electric Company, based in Rockford. After 25 years with the company, Milo retired and moved in Herman in 1999. Milo and Joan have continued to live in the Herman and Donnelly area since that time.

Over the years, Milo was active in the Lions Club, the Modified Racing Association, the National Turkey Federation and the Foster Parent Association, where he served as president for Wright County. Some of his other interests included building and driving race cars, hunting, fishing, farming and doing repairs on anything that needed help.

He is survived by his wife: Joan Prindle, Herman; three children: James Prindle (and fiancé Rebecca), St. Elizabeth, Mo., Donald (Michelle) Prindle, Callaway and Eileen Beamish (significant other, Randy Buhrt), Annandale; five grandchildren: Marisa Beamish, Tiffany Prindle, Courtney Harper, Adam Prindle and Noah Prindle; one great-grandchild: Alexa Tomlinson; one sister: Darlene Stoltz, Austin; brother-in-law: Tom (Pam) Mottes, Santa Anna, Calif.; two sisters-in-law: Mary (Fred) Paggi, Roseburg, Ore. and Barbara (Ed) Barnes, Roseburg, Ore., as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister: Ila Dunham and two brothers-in-law: Moses Dunham and Darrel Stoltz.

The family would like to send a very special thank you out to Charles and Karen Long for all the care and support that they have given.

Funeral services for Milo will be held Saturday, October 8, 2011, at 11 a.m. at the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris. The Rev. Pat Franey will be officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Military rites will be provided by the Morris American Legion, VFW and AmVets.

Honorary pallbearers for the service are: Darrel Stoltz, James Prindle, Don Prindle, Charles Long, Stan Meyer, Dick Burns, Gordon Covyeou, Vedar Harstad and Adam Ritter, as well as all the caregivers at West Wind Village. Linda Hodgson will serve as organist for the service, with Ken Hodgson serving as soloist. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.

To send condolences online, visit us at www.pedersenfh.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Oct. 1, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

James Scott Nielsen, age 48, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, September 26, 2011, at his home of natural causes.

Jim was born on February 13, 1963, in Austin to Frederick and Loretta (Tschida) Nielsen. He graduated from Austin High School in 1981. Jim attended vocational school for printing and truck driving.He drove truck for Midnight Trucking and was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Jim, a.k.a. James, Jimmer, Bone, Boner, and Felix was a devoted son, brother, uncle, father and friend. His life was filled with many joys. He loved riding his Harley or anything that was running. Jim loved golfing with his son, Tanner, and friends, riding his mountain bike, watching and playing hockey and seeing the countryside as he traveled to many states while driving semi. He also loved building his Harley in the living room. However, the most enjoyment in his life was spending time with Tanner and Olivia. Nothing made him happier.

Jim will be forever remembered as the guy who would have done anything for anyone. His smile, beautiful eyes and carefree way of living will forever be etched in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to have known him. His love for life and the open road continues as he makes his journey home to God.

Survivors include his wife: Susan Nielsen, Austin; son: Tanner Nielsen and Tanner’s mom and forever friend: Leslie Fox, both of Austin; daughter: Olivia Johnson, Austin; siblings: Patricia (Jerry) Elmore, Oklahoma City, Okla., Michael (Sherry) Nielsen, Oklahoma City, Okla., John Nielsen, Austin, Sandy Jenia, Austin, Jeanne (Jim) Winters, Austin; nieces: Natalie Elmore, Michele Nielsen; nephew: Jacob Winters; great nephews: Trevin Hicks, Keetin Hicks.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Loretta Nielsen; aunts and uncles.

A memorial mass will be celebrated 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 3, 2011, at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. There will be a 4:30 p.m. wake service on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. The family will also greet friends at a luncheon following the service at the church on Monday.

Austin Daily Herald, Oct. 1, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Obituary

Robert C. “Bob” Watkins, age 84, of Austin, died Thursday afternoon, September 22, 2011 at Fieldcrest Care Center in Hayfield.

Robert was born on May 22, 1927 in Hayfield, Minnesota to Earl “Dick” and Olive (Distad) Watkins. He graduated from Hayfield High School in 1947. On November 19, 1948, he was united in marriage to Edith “Edee” Mathison at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield. In 1950, Bob enlisted in the United States Army and served until 1952. Bob and Edee were lifelong residents of the Austin area. They lived in Hayfield until 1965, moving to Blooming Prairie and then Austin in 1969.

He liked to watch TV, especially sporting events, play bingo, and go out to eat. He loved farming and driving his tractor. After working for Hormel Foods for over 30 years, Bob retired on May 22, 1982. He moved to Pickett Place in 2005.

Survivors include five children, Mary Louise (Paul) Augustin of Charles City, Iowa, Rob (Deb) Watkins and Kris Hanson of Austin, Jean (Bob) Miller of Byron, Minnesota, and Rich (Mischelle) Watkins of Faribault, Minnesota; fourteen grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Edee in 2001, and two brothers, Duane Watkins and James Watkins.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday September 28, 2011 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and one hour prior to the service at the church. Military rites conducted by American Legion Post #91 and V.F.W. Post 1216. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to recipient of donor’s choice. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

[ Worlein Funeral Home obituary, 10/4/2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Eleanor Brinkman, 96, of Austin, died on Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Our House Senior Living.

She was born November 8, 1914, in Austin to Charles and Mary (Monnahan) Fielding. She grew up in Austin and graduated from Pacelli High School (formerly St. Augustine H.S.). She received her teaching degree from the Teacher Normal Training College in Austin. She taught for several years in country schools in the area. She was employed at the Brinkman Bakery where Eleanor met her future husband. On September 4, 1940 she was united in marriage to Lloyd Brinkman at St. Augustine Church. They resided in Austin where Lloyd was employed by the Hormel Co. and she was a homemaker.

Eleanor was a long-time member of Queen of Angels Church. She was a member of the Austin Garden Club where she held many offices. She enjoyed gardening, reading, photography, listening to classical music, taking trips with Senior Citizen Groups, and she enjoyed family activities. Eleanor will be remembered for her sweet smile, her love of flowers, witty remarks, sense of humor and devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Many people will remember seeing Eleanor riding her bicycle around Austin, even into her 80s.

Survivors include her children, Dianne (Terry) Smith, Scottsdale, Ariz., Jim Brinkman, Austin, Nancy (Garnet) Cafourek, Mankato, Minn., Patty Stavlo (special friend, Jerry Brandenhoff), Bloomington, Minn., Judee (Jim) Jansen, Brooklyn Center, Minn., John Brinkman (special friend, Janice Testa), Scottsdale, Ariz.; grandchildren, Troy Hamberg(Helen) Wichita Falls, Texas, Jacqueline (Bobby) Aldesco, Chatsworth, Calif., Justin Cafourek, LaCrosse, Wis., Andrea (Kevin) Patterson, Irving, Texas, Jordan (Krista) Cafourek, Canton, Mass., Nicole (Jeff) Johnston, Ramsey, Minn., Travis (Jamie) Jansen Brooklyn Center, Brandon (Jennifer) Stavlo, Little Canada, Minn., Brent Stavlo, Minneapolis, 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd in 1990; two brothers and two sisters.

A funeral mass will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Funeral services for Bette F. Hedstrom-Peterson will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, October 9, 2011, at the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church with the Rev. Ann Siverling officiating. Burial will be held in the Bennington Cemetery, Bennington Township, Mower Co. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, October 8, at the Hindt Funeral Home in Grand Meadow and will continue at the church for 1hr prior to the service.

Bette Hedstrom-Peterson, 86, of Grand Meadow, died Wednesday, October 5, 2011, at St Marys Hospital in Rochester.

Bette Faye Willoughby was born May 4, 1925, in Rockwell City, Iowa, to Frederick and Gladys (Risely) Willoughby. She attended and graduated from school in Rockwell City and was united in marriage to Leonard Headstrom on December 7, 1945, in Laurens, Iowa, and together they farmed in Bennington Township. Leonard passed away in 1983. Bette was united in marriage to “Ole” Peterson on September 12, 1992, at Grand Meadow Lutheran, he passed away in 2003.

In later years Bette worked as a trainer for Daytons and Donaldsons Department stores in Rochester and also worked for Insti Prints in Rochester for about 10 years. She volunteered at the Grand Meadow Health Care Center and started the Leprechaun Group of volunteers there. Bette was a member of the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church and served as president of its ladies group for many years, she was also an instrumental part of the kitchen remodel project. Bette also served on the Library Board during the construction of the new facility in Grand Meadow. She enjoyed traveling and her many trips to Branson, Missouri.

She is survived by her son, Martin (Cathy) Hedstrom of Zumbro Falls, Minn., step-children, Terrence (Susan) Peterson of Faribault, Marshall (Betty) Peterson and LuAnn (Dan) Rasmussen of Rose Creek; grandson, Martin L. Hedstrom II and wife, Jamie and their children, Kendall and Madelyn. She is also survived by 11 step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Norma Willoughby of Rockwell City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; brother; and daughter-in-law, Suzanne. Condolences may be left at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Friday, Oct. 7, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Myron J. Heimer, 66, of Wabasha, Minnesota, and formerly of Rose Creek and Austin, Minnesota, died on October 4, 2011, in Wabasha.

He was born on November 18, 1944, in Austin, the son of Henry and Barbara (Kasel) Heimer. He graduated from Pacelli High School and attended college in Austin. He worked at IBM in Rochester for 30 years, retiring in 1995. He married Peggy Askerud Dec. 28, 1978, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Myron enjoyed photography and aviation. He loved to travel, tell jokes, read the newspaper and fish on the river. Peggy and his children and grandchildren were a joy to him, and he will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Myron is survived by wife, Peggy Heimer, Wabasha, Minn.; children and spouses, Mark Heimer, Rose Creek, Todd Heimer, Forest Lake, Minn., Susan and Jared Heimer, Elkton, Minn., Lonna and Matt Daniels, Burnsville, Minn., Mike and Kiyomi Helland, Apple Valley, Minn., Chris and Jennifer Heimer, Mankato, Minn., Jessie Heimer, New York City; 18 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, MaryAnn and Gene Skadberg, Grand Marais, Minn.; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, at the Abbott Funeral Home in Wabasha with the Rev. Milo Ernster officiating. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 9am until the time of service. The Abbott Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.abbottfh.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Kurt Brian Roser of Garden Valley, California, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, passed away October 3, 2011, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease.

Kurt Roser was born in Austin, Minnesota, on August 23, 1954, to Charles and Marjorie Roser. He was a 1972 graduate of Austin High School. He married Diana Peterson on March 23, 1974. They moved to northern California where Kurt served in the Air Force for three years. For several years, they had a property maintenance business and worked doing health club maintenance. Kurt and Diana became white water rafting guides which Kurt continued to do until he had to retire because of health problems. Kurt enjoyed the outdoors, river rafting and living in the California foothills.

He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by wife, Diana; brothers, David of Davis, Calif., Chris (Cathy) of Rose Creek, Minn.; nephews, Ben (Stephanie) Roser of Lakeville, Minn., Scott (Kara) Roser of Iowa City, Iowa., Casey Roser of Coralville, Iowa.; and by Diana’s siblings, Larry Peterson, David (LuAnne) Peterson, Greg (Sandy) Peterson, Sandy (Denis) Anderson, Cyndy Peterson, Susan (Dave) Garry; nieces and nephews.

The family prefers memorials to the National Parkinson’s Foundation.

Arrangements and services are being handled by Green Valley Mortuary and Crematorium of Cameron, Calif.

Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Robert Rugene “Bob” Gleason, 86, of rural Lyle, Minnesota, died peacefully at his home on Wednesday morning, October 5, 2011.

Robert Gleason was born March 27, 1925, in Otranto Township, Mitchell County, Iowa, to Roy Francis and Amy (Read) Gleason and baptized and confirmed in the Mona Lutheran Church in Iowa. When Bob was five years old, his family moved to a farm east of Lyle. He attended Pinehurst Country School and graduated from Lyle High School in 1942. Bob’s father passed away in 1940, and at that time, Bob took over the farming operation while finishing high school. In his earlier years he also worked at Botsford Lumber Yard in Lyle, Toeterville Elevator in Iowa and custom farmed for several neighbors and friends.

Robert married Violet Rogstad on October 22, 1949, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin. From this union, three children, Steven, Sandra and Susan, were born.

A good steward of the soil, he wanted to leave the land the best he could for the next generation. He loved farming, enjoyed raising beef cattle and participated at the Midwest Steer show in Austin where he showed some of his cattle and won several awards, including the Grand Champion twice. He met many friends through the cattle business and farmed in the Lyle vicinity until his retirement.

Robert was very active in the community, serving on several boards including Toeterville Elevator, Farm Service Co-op, Nevada Township, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Lyle, Lyle Public School, Pleasant Hill Cemetery and the Freeborn/Mower REA Advisory board. Robert’s hobbies were traveling, playing cards, going to sale barns to buy livestock and visiting with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Violet of rural Lyle; son, Steven (Cynthia) of Austin; daughter, Sandra (Keith) Groth of Stewartville; five grandchildren, Philip Gleason (Emily Kennelly) of Tallahassee, Florida, Dr. Kara (Carl) Mould of Atlanta, Ga., Marge Gleason of Miami, Fla., Michelle Groth of Chicago, Nicholas Groth of Madison, Wis.; great-granddaughter Elise Mould of Atlanta; two step grandsons, Dominic Ciola of Minneapolis and Louis (Nicole) Ciola of St. Paul; sister-in-law, Virginia Gleason of Northfield; nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Amy Gleason; daughter Susan; brothers, Roy Gleason and Charles “Read” Gleason; sister, Harriet Gleason; daughter-in-law, Janel (Bendtsen) Gleason; sister-in-law, Phyllis Gleason. His family wishes to thank friends, family and the Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin Hospice for their prayers and help during the past few months.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Lyle with Pastor Barbara Finley-Shea officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin or one hour before the service at the church. Interment is at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Mona, Iowa. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

Austin Daily Herald, Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Donald E. Underdahl, 73, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Monday, October 3, 2011, at his home.

Donald Underdahl was born on January 6, 1938, in Adams, Mower county, Minnesota, to Leon and Alvina (Adams) Underdahl. On July 15, 1957, he was united in marriage to Patricia B. Rasmussen in Plymouth, Iowa. Don attended Austin VoTech and obtained his Boiler license. He was retired from the maintenance department at Pacelli High School and Austin Auto Truck Stop.

Don was a member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church and the VFW. He was a hunter, loved fishing, camping, reading, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his many pets.

Survivors include his wife, Pat Underdahl, Austin; children, Donald L. (Peggy) Underdahl, Austin, Sue (Underdahl) Lechner, Charlotte, N.C., Dennis (Rhonda) Underdahl, Austin, Dwayne (Anna) Underdahl, Rochester; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brothers, Paul (Betty) Underdahl, Austin, Roger Underdahl, Austin; sisters, Diane Titus, Austin, Delores (Bill) Hansen, Rake, Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Alvina Underdahl; brothers, Robert Underdahl, James Underdahl, David Underdahl, Ronald Underdahl; sisters, Marion Bond, Darlene Tabor.

Memorial services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at Mayer Funeral Home with Father Paul Nelson officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and one hour before the service on Friday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Austin Daily Herald, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Evelyn Lola Cramer, 85, passed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, at Eastwood Senior Living, Mora, Minnesota.

Evelyn was born March 4, 1926, in Austin, Minnesota, and was the only daughter of George and Margaret Anderson, and sister to four brothers. She loved to climb trees and enjoyed being a tomboy. At 18, she owned and operated a gas station. In order to meet sales quotas in the winter, she cut and sold ice blocks. She married Leonard “Smokey” Cramer, her childhood sweetheart, and thereafter, committed her life to homemaking. She applied excellence to all that she did, keeping a clean and organized home, managing the family finances and committing her time and energies to caring for their 10 children. She was a capable seamstress and made her own patterns and sewed clothes for her children.

In 1959, the family moved to Isanti County, where they made their home on a farm. During hard times in the early 60s, she applied and was accepted for the Nurses’ Aide Program at the Cambridge State School and Hospital. There she excelled at her job and enjoyed working with the infants and toddlers. She was then diagnosed with serious heart disease and told to quit her job “if she wanted to see her children graduate.” She took a small break to recover before returning to work again, and continued to manage the many tasks of wife and mother.

When asked about her greatest joy and achievement in life, she answered without hesitation: her children. She served tirelessly and selflessly, always putting the needs of her children and husband before her own.

After the children graduated, she and her husband moved to Cambridge, and finally in 1986, they moved to Mora to enjoy their retirement years. Evelyn began making new friends and continued to find great enjoyment in her sewing — making patchwork quilts for her children and for every newborn in the family. She also sewed quilts for others and eventually lost count of the total number she had made! In 2001, she underwent surgery for a goiter, and was diagnosed with B-Cell Lymphoma. She went through a round of radiation treatments and recovered. Her husband died in 2005, but Evelyn continued to live in her own home after this, enjoying her sewing projects, tending to her flowers and planting a small garden where her neighbors could enjoy helping themselves to fresh tomatoes. During this time, she also had bouts with congestive heart failure and was hospitalized numerous times.

She often teased that the “golden years” were really the “old rusty years.” Her health took a downward turn this summer and she never regained her strength. Her final two weeks were spent at Eastwood Senior Living where she was tenderly cared for.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and two infant sons, Larry and Lavern.

One of the joys that she faced in her final weeks was the anticipation of being reunited with these loved ones.

She is survived by three sons, Marvin (Ginie) Cramer of White Bear Lake, Maynard (Deb) Cramer of Stacy, Leonard (Trish) Cramer of Bloomington; five daughters, Darlene (Ken) Dahlberg of Ashley, N.D., Lola Nelson of Mora, Dianna (Greg) Kasprzak of Mora, Cheryl Cramer of Cambridge, Mona Enzenauer of Witchita Falls, Texas, 28 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Marian Torno of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, at New Hope Christian Reformed Church in Ogilvie with pastors Greg Kasprzak and Bob Bohachek officiating. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. before services at the church. Music will be provided by Mike Palmer, Aseneth Palmer, Mark Scherer, Karla Fuller, Joshua Kasprzak and Louise Webb. Casketbearers are Marvin Cramer, Maynard Cramer, Leonard Cramer, Jr., Shelly Larson, Lorie Dixon, Leonard Cramer, III, Matthew Cramer, Jason Cramer and Benjamin Cramer. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Mora.

Arrangements by Dresser-Methven Funeral Home, Mora.

Austin Daily Herald, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Ruth Arleen Heiny

(February 25, 1919 - October 6, 2011)

Ruth Arleen Heiny 1919-2011

Ruth A. Heiny, 92 of Austin, Minnesota, died on Thursday, October 6, 2011 at Sacred Heart Care Center.

Ruth was born on February 25, 1919 in Austin, Minnesota to Ralph and Nina (Moshier) Warrington. She attended the District 14 county school and graduated from Austin High School. Ruth married Leonard Heiny, Jr. near London, MN on July 30, 1938 at the home of her uncle, Joe Magee.

Ruth was a member of the United Methodist Church Women, Royal Neighbors, Cedar City Cemetery Association, Eagles Auxiliary and the Lyle American Legion Auxiliary.

Ruth was a homemaker and farm wife. She was an avid camper and enjoyed fishing and going for boat rides. Ruth liked to bake and she loved spending time with her family. In retirement, Ruth and Leonard spent 20 winters in Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Leonard, daughter Sharyl Nelson and and grandson Darren Heiny

Ruth is survived by her children: Taryl and Phyllis Heiny, Austin, Minnesota; Gary Heiny and Marcy Warrington, Austin, Minnesota; Linda and Dennis Whalen, Lyle, Minnesota; son-in-law: Eugene Nelson, Austin, Minnesota; 11 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; brother-in-law: Sid Heiny, Austin, Minnesota; sister-in-law: Pat Heiny, Austin, Minnesota; Aunt: Dolly Warrington, Westaco, Texas; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Honorary casket bearers are Kim Underwood, Kris Baldus, Tiffany Nowak, Wendy Whalen, and Chad Heiny. Casket bearers will be Dale Heiny, Mark Heiny, Wade Nelson, Dustin Nelson, Lance Whalen and Laurie Vitzhum.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 10, 2011 at First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Marilee Benson and the Reverend Shari Mason officiating. Interment will be at Cedar City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 PM on Sunday at First United Methodist Church and at the church on Monday for one hour before the service.

Memorials may be designated to First United Methodist Church or to Cedar City Cemetery Association.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

[ A Clasen-Jordan Mortuary obituary, 10/8/2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

HERINGTON, Mrs. Charles (died 1934)

HERINGTON, Mrs. Charles, who resided at 2074 Carolina Avenue Northeast, Mason City, Iowa, died Monday at San Antonio, Texas, where she had been visiting her daughter.

Funeral services will be held at 1 o'clock Friday afternoon at the Randall funeral home. The Rev. David L. Kratz, pastor of the Church of Christ, will be in charge of the services.

Burial will be at Austin, Minnesota.

[ Mason City Globe Gazette, Wednesday, April 4, 1934 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Ruby Berdahl, 103, died on September 28, 2011, peacefully in her sleep.

Five years ago her Grandson James and wife Dawn invited her live with them in the country near Ogilvie, Minn. Here Ruby enjoyed the beauties of the changing seasons. She loved to watch the deer, birds, and ducks and found a special friend in Abby the dog. James and Dawns’ children, Kyle and Ashlee, were a constant source of joy and entertainment.

Ruby was born on August 20, 1908, to Emil and Marie Knutson in Blooming Prairie. She resided in Austin until 1996. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church and worked as nurse for several years.

She was preceded in death by her husband I.N. “Bert” Berdahl and brothers Osmond, Irving, and Blaine Knutson.

She is survived by: daughter Ingrid Helsel (Verle) of Edmonds, Washington; son Elroy (Donna) of White Bear Lake, Minn. Two grandchildren: James Berdahl (Dawn), Ogilvie and Shelly Peter, St. Paul. Three great-grandchildren: Malia Peterson, Kyle Berdahl, and Ashlee Berdahl.

A memorial service for her will be held on October 22, 2011, 11 a.m., at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

Memorials can be made to Fairview Hospice, 110 – 6th Ave South, Princeton, MN 55371.

Austin Daily Herald online, Sat., Oct 8, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Obituary

Savannah Marlene Barlow Doss, age 54, of Austin, Minnesota died Friday evening, October 7, 2011, at the Adams Health Care Center in Adams, Minnesota. She was born on January 12, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois the daughter of Clarence Williams and Inez Ephraim. She attended school in Chicago, graduating from Gage Park High School. She made her home in Chicago until 1995 and then moved to Austin, Minnesota in 1996 to be near her children. Savannah loved to cook, watch movies, work on puzzles and fish. She was always willing to help those in need.

Survivors include three children, LaTrina (Charles) Jones of Mesa, Arizona, Eddie Barlow of Bayport, Minnesota and Charles (Sherri) Barlow of Austin, Minnesota; twelve grandchildren; six sisters, Gwendolyn Edwards, Edna Barlow, Ada Barlow, Doycline Ayer, Christine Ayer and Christine Ephraim all of Chicago, Illinois; one brother, Ricky Barlow of Chicago, Illinois; her boyfriend Tommy Leidal of Osage, Iowa; many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Williams and Inez Ephraim; one grandchild; four brothers, James Barlow, Jr., Leonteen Barlow, Lester Craig Barlow and Michael Lee Barlow and one sister, Lorlene Gillespie.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 14, 2011 at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Shari Mason, officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Friday.

[ Obituary from Worlein Funeral Home website - 10/10/11 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Harry Otis Askerud, 83, of Austin, Minnesota, died Friday, October 7, 2011, at St. Mark's Lutheran Home.

Harry was born May 29, 1928. in Albert Lea, to Haakon and Marie (Drugsvold) Askerud. He graduated from Spring Valley High School and attended vocational school in Austin for HVAC and welding. On July 16, 1949, he was united in marriage to Loretta Ann Bowe at St. Francis Church in Rochester.

Harry was in the Air Force. He worked for Hormel for 23 years, was self-employed in the business of home maintenance in Austin, and managed apartments and condos in the Minneapolis area. His last place of employment was Rockford Inc. in Hopkins.

Harry was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, the Eagles Club and the Legion.

Harry was very mechanical, a carpenter, plumber, electrician, welder, refrigeration, heating and boiler licensed. He was a jack of all trades and loved to travel. Harry loved spending his winters in Arizona. He loved his family and used to say, "Not a bad apple in the bunch."

Survivors include his wife, Loretta Askerud, Austin; children, Rick (Kelly) Askerud, Wabasha, Peggy Heimer, Wabasha, Ava (Dave) Ingebritson, Rochester, Bonnie (Marlin) Anderson, Angora, Lisa (Joe) Mandler, Stillwater, and Theresa (Todd) Houston, Bay City, Wis.; 22 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, Myron Heimer.

A Funeral Mass for Harry Askerud will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 13, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with Father Jim Steffes officiating. The family will greet friends one hour before the service at the church on Thursday.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home, Austin.

[Rochester Post-Bulletin, 10/10/11]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

#1:

Jack Brennan, 85, of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Sacred Heart Care Center.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, at the First United Methodist Church, with the Reverend Marilee A. Benson, Reverend Shari Mason and Reverend Marvin Repinski officiating. Friends may greet the family for one hour before the service at the church on Sunday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to First United Methodist Church or the Honor Flight Program.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary in Austin is in charge of arrangements.

[Rochester Post-Bulletin, 10/10/11]

---

#2: Jack Brennan, 85

Jack Brennan, 85, of Austin, died Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin.

Jack was born February 17, 1926, at Austin, Minnesota, the son of John and Lila (Rogers) Brennan. He attended school at Rose Creek, Minnesota, and enlisted in the Navy, serving in the South Pacific during World War II. Jack married Pearl Tucker on April 23, 1950, at the Brownsdale United Methodist Church. They have resided in Austin where he worked at the Geo. A. Hormel Co. retiring after 35 years.

Jack was a member of the Fellowship United Methodist Church until its closing when he became a member of the First United Methodist Church. He was a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Jack enjoyed wood working and had made 199 “sofa servers” for relatives and friends. He liked to garden and cook. Soup was his specialty.

Jack is survived by his wife, Pearl Brennan, Austin; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeff and Joann Brennan, Waseca, Minn., John Brennan, Mankato, Minn., Scott and Mary Brennan, Ely, Minn.; daughter, Sue Brennan (friend Mark), Minneapolis; five grandchildren, Matthew (Julie) Hanson, Dover, N.H., William (Liz) Hanson, Eagan, Minn., David (Nicole) Brennan, Waverly, Iowa, Cody Brennan (Katie), Madison Lake, Minn., Jack Parks Brennan, Ely; three great-grandchildren, Kali, Maya and Amelia; brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Alice Brennan, Austin; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Glenn (Jennie) Tucker, Rock Springs, Wyo., Bill Tucker, Two Harbors, Minn., Helen Chapman, Austin, Marlys (Wayne) Harvey, Blooming Prairie, Minn., David (Susie) Tucker, Austin, Karen Tucker, Austin, Pat (Bob) Carlin, Mounds View, Minn.; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; aunts and uncles; brothers-in-law, Ronald Tucker and Jerry Tucker.

A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverends Marilee A. Benson, Shari Mason and Marvin Repinski officiating. Friends may greet the family for one hour before the service at the church on Sunday. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the First United Methodist Church or the Honor Flight Program.

Austin Daily Herald, Monday, Oct. 11, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Mabel A. Blynn, 92, of Austin, died Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at her son's home in Austin.

Mabel was born Feb. 20, 1919, to Rudolph and Amanda Preuss. She was one of 12 children. Mabel married John H. Johnson on Dec. 24, 1941. They had three sons, Gordon, Johnny and Dick. They lived in Rose Creek, where Mabel owned and operated a beauty shop. Mabel and John later divorced. She then married Howard Blynn in 1962. They lived west of Austin on a farm and raised hogs and sheep.

Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, Gordon (Richelle) Johnson, Superior, Wyo., John (Elaine) Johnson, Grand Rapids, and Dick (Vicki) Johnson, Austin; seven grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; three step-children, Maureen Ator, Austin, Nancy Pike, Wisconsin, and Eugene "Skip" Blynn, Michigan; one sister and two brothers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers and three sisters, and husband, Howard Blynn.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, at First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Marilee Benson officiating. Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home, and also one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.

[Rochester Post-Bulletin, 10/10/11]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Marcella E. Schaefer Perrin, 81, of Austin, died at her home Friday, October 7, 2011.

Marcella Elizabeth Schaefer was born May 10, 1930, at Adams, the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Mueller) Schaefer. She attended Sacred Heart School and graduated from Adams High School. Marcella was an employee of the Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. in Austin, and while working there she met John Perrin. Marcella and John were married Dec. 20, 1975, at Adams.

In retirement, the Perrins enjoyed spending the winter months in Gulf Shores, Ala.

Marcella was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church and a volunteer at the Philomathian in Austin. She was an avid Twins fan and enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles and Sudoku.

Marcella was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Perrin; brothers, Paul, Fred, Herb and Benno Schaefer; brother-in-law, Herman Schmitz; and sisters-in law, Sally Schaefer and Betty Schaefer.

She is survived by her step-children, Steven (Terri) Perrin, San Diego, Calif., Patricia (Russell) Smidt, Austin, and James (Joanie) Perrin, Austin; grandchildren, Mischa, Seth, Alexandra, Michael, Christine, Jennifer and Erin; 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Florence Schmitz, Adams, Vernon Schaefer, Adams, Norb (Linda) Schaefer, Montgomery, Ala., Rita (David) Sheedy, Scottsdale, Ariz., Conrad (Judy) Schaefer, Austin, Roger (Wanda) Schaefer, Forest City, Iowa, and Bette (Harlan) Smith, Park Forest, Ill.; sisters-in-law, Dorene Schaefer, Adams, Dona Schaefer, Rochester; many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin, with Father James Steffes and Father Marty Schaefer officiating. Interment will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Adams at a later date. There will be a Rosary service at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, at the Adams Funeral Home, where friends may call from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. There will be no reviewal at the church before the service on Wednesday.

[Rochester Post-Bulletin, 10/10/11]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Darrel Claire “Buck” Heegard, 84, of Owatonna, Minnesota, and formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on Friday October 7, 2011, at Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna.

Darrel Heegard was born on January 2, 1927, in Hayward, Minnesota, and was raised in Albert Lea, Minnesota. When he was 16, Buck left high school to join the Navy during World War II, serving in the Pacific Theater and participating in the invasion of Leyte Gulf in 1944. After the war, he returned to Albert Lea and finished high school. On Sept. 3, 1949, he married Shirley Ann McKallor of Austin, who remained the love of his life until her death in 2006. Buck worked for Hormel Foods in Austin for 38 years before retiring in 1986. He was an avid golfer, union activist and the proud father of seven children.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and one brother.

Survivors include his children, David (JoAnn) Heegard, Mary (Chuck) Distad, Nancy (Mike) Bowden, John Heegard, Joan (Mike) Jutson, Ann (Brian) Westberg and Joe (Myrna) Heegard; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, with a sixth, Francis Claire, due any day; sisters, Jeanette Godtland, Lois (Roger) Bailey, Marilyn Amerson, and his twin sister, Delores (Howie) Petersen.

A celebration of life service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 91.

Memorials to the Homestead Hospice House of Owatonna or Trinity Lutheran Church of Owatonna Building Fund are preferred in lieu of flowers.

Austin Daily Herald, Monday, Oct. 10, 2011

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Jean Marie (Holst) Kuhlmann, 80, of Adams, Minnesota, died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday evening, October 12, 2011, at the Adams Health Care Center.

She was born on June 21, 1931, in Pine City, Minn., to Henry and Sophie (Hoeper) Holst. After graduating from Austin High School in 1949, she married Allan (Pete) Kuhlmann on April 29, 1950. Jean started her career as a waitress at the Austin A&W Root Beer stand, wearing roller skates to deliver food orders. She then continued as a waitress for 30 years at the Rochester Airport.

In her later years, she worked as a housekeeper at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester for 10 years, and then at the Hayfield Nursing Home. She took great pride in her garden, which included beautiful flowers and vegetables. She always made sure everyone had plenty to eat, especially her two grandchildren, who loved her canned meats and vegetables.

Survivors include her two sons, Bucky Kuhlmann of LeRoy, Minn., and Peter (Vicki) Kuhlmann of Rose Creek, Minn.; two grandchildren, Josh Kuhlmann (Vanessa Mandler and Allie Mae) of Austin and Jodi Kuhlmann (Pat Nelsen) of Rose Creek; sister-in-law, Gladys Holst of Austin; brother-in-law, Jim (Audrey) Kuhlmann of Hokah, Minn.; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Allan (Pete) in 2002; her parents, Henry and Sophie; brothers, Vernon Holst and Ray Holst; sisters, Irene Barnum, Lois Nelson, Ione Staples, and their spouses.

Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, at the Dexter United Methodist Church in Dexter with Pastor Karen Ashton, officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at the Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Burial of ashes will follow the service in the Dexter Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

[ Austin Daily Herald online, Oct. 14, 2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Funeral services for Ruth Elizabeth Larson, 89, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, will be 1 p.m. Sunday, October 16, 2011, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Chapel. Rev. Daniel Baker will officiate. Interment will be at Geneva Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. To sign the guest book, go to www.bayviewfuneral.com

Ruth died Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, at the Centennial House Assisted Living Center.

Ruth Elizabeth Larson was born October 24, 1921, to John and Gertrude (Reinertson) McCoy in Brownsdale, Minn. She grew up in the Brownsdale and Geneva area. Ruth graduated from Austin High School in 1937. She married Vincent Johnson and together they had four children. She spent many years as a homemaker and waitress. On Oct. 6, 1954, Ruth married Lloyd Larson. The couple made their home in Albert Lea until 1969, when they purchased the Florence Hotel in Winnebago. The couple moved to Blue Earth in 1978 and managed the Crescent Apartments for five years.

Ruth and Lloyd then returned to the Albert Lea area before moving to Austin. Ruth spent the last 15 years in the Lakeville and Apple Valley area. She enjoyed playing cards and spending time with her family. Ruth was very talented and could always make something from nothing. Blessed be her memory.

Survivors include her children, Janice (Corlyn) Paulsen of Lakeville, Janet (Odean) Jerdee of Hayward, Vicki (Steve) Legried of Austin, Tim (Nancy) Larson of Burnsville and Terry (Linda) Larson of Apple Valley; 18 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lloyd Larson; son, Keith Johnson and siblings, John McCoy, Genevieve Green and Helen Wagner.

[ Austin Daily Herald online, Oct. 14, 2011 ]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Olive C. Mayer, 97, formerly of Austin, Minnesota, died on Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Rosewood Estates of Hyland in St. Paul.

Olive was born on November 8, 1913, in Montrose, Minnesota, to William and Catherine Redman. She graduated from St. Augustine High School in Austin, class of 1932. On Aug. 25, 1935, she was united in marriage to John F. Mayer at St. Augustine Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on Feb. 22, 2005.

Olive was past president of the Rosary Society and the Philomathian Library. She was an active member of the Austin Country Club, a fabulous baker, a wonderful wife and mother.

Survivors include two sons, John (Cathy), Naples, Florida, and James (Linda), Naples, Florida; daughter, Joan (Peter) Gavin, Inver Grove Heights; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with Father Jim Steffes officiating.

There will be a 4 p.m. CCW rosary and a 6:30 p.m. wake service on Thursday, at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin, where friends may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and also one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

[ Rochester Post-Bulletin online]

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Elizabeth Nield, whose death was mentioned in yesterday's Herald, was born June 18th, 1809 in eastern Penn. She was married to Thomas Nield in 1830 who died in 1880. Four of the nine children survive, G.W. Nield, Mrs. W. Brothers, Mrs. J.A. Mills, Mrs. O. Krotzer of Idaho.

For over fifty years, she was a member of the Methodist church and while she was able, a faithful attendant and devoted worker. She was a kind neighbor, a good mother and a progressive woman. She was fond of reading and possessed of a bright mind. Not many live so near the century as she, and after a long life, well spent, she sleeps in well earned rest.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
August 2, 1901; Page Three

(Credit: Donna Williams)

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Dec. 13, 1850
Oct., 1901

Died, at 1:20 a.m. Sunday morning, William Merry Pace. Funeral at the house at 10 o'clock Tuesday, at the Christian Church afterwards, Rev. John Trelyar(?) officiating. Interment in Oakwood cemetery.

Mr. Pace, the oldest of six children, was born in Clayton, Indiana, December 13, 1849 and twenty-three years ago on July 4th, he was married to Sarah Austin. They resided at one time on the Kimball farm at River Bend. For some time his was grain buyer at Kenyon, Minn., and Allison, Iowa. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Pace three of which are living, Roy E., Claude 0., and Rolla S., all residing in Austin.

Mr. Pace has been ill since the fourth day of last December when he had a severe attack of the grippe which developed into tuberculosis of which malady he died.

Beside his wife and children he leaves a mother, two sisters, Mrs. La Point and Mrs. Sarah Wynn, four brothers, Frank, John, Charlie and Jom all of whom reside in Austin except Frank, who is located at Blooming Prairie, and will be present at the funeral.

Mr. Pace was a member of the Christian church and his life was consistent with his belief. He was known as a man whose prominent traits were honesty and kindness and these will live long after he has departed.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
October 7, 1901; Page Three.

( Credit: Donna Williams )

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Jan. 23, 1843
Aug. 9, 1901

Died at her home on the East Side at 5:30 Friday morning. Mrs. John Holden. Funeral Friday at 2:30 p.m., from Christ Episcopal church. Rev. Somerville officiating. Interment in Oakwood cemetery.

After long weeks of intense suffering, the life spark is extinguished and a ?? worker, rests. The Holden home is saddened and a gloom falls on the neighborhood for the one who has been dear to many is gone.

Mrs. Holden has never been strong since living in Austin and so has not been able to mingle much in society. She was in fact a domestic woman finding pleasure in her home and a few intimate friends. She was a good woman and one who enjoyed the confidence of those who knew her.

Sarah Holden was born Jan. 23, 1843 in Haslingden, Lancashire, England. In 1886 she came to America, living at Wells for about a year and a half before moving to Austin. She was married to John Holden in 1886 and was a devoted consistent member of the Episcopal church. She leaves beside her husband, a brother and three sisters in England.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
August 9, 1901; Page Three.

( Credit: Donna Williams )

©2011 MNGenweb

 

OBITUARY

MRS. MARY MILLER

Died, at St. Olaf's Hospital, Sunday Morning at 4 o'clock, Mrs. Mary Miller. Funeral from Christ Episcopal church at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Interment in Oakwood cemetery.

Mary F. Flinn was born in Philadelphia, Pa., April 13, 1852. She was married to Charles J. Miller, Nov. 18, 1869 and moved west to Milwaukee in 1872 where they lived for one year. The remainder of their lives was spent in Austin with the exception of one year in Minneapolis.

Mrs. Miller had always been an active woman of much energy until the malady which finally caused her death came upon her last August. So bravely did she then bear her sufferings that only those most closely associated with her knew her physical ailments. Always cheerful, always pleasant, always brave few knew the burden that she carried. About a month ago she went to Minneapolis and St. Paul to consult with specialists who gave her little hope and agreed with her home physicians that a critical operation was her only chance of life. This was performed at St. Olaf's hospital by Dr. A.W. Abbott of Minneapolis, assisted by Dr. Hegge.

Since then not only her immediate family but a large circle of friends who hoped that her life might be spared have looked anxiously for the good tidings that she was better. But this was not to be and hope was lost in resignation and the life that could not be saved was spared from longer suffering by the coming of the messenger. Her last moments were of peace and happiness.

As word went out Sunday morning that she had left us not only was there sorrow in her own household but in every place where her cheerful presence and helpful hand had been known.

To her daughters, whose loss only those who have suffered similarly, can fully appreciated, the community feel the deepest sympathy.

Mrs. Miller will be missed in the W.R.O. whose efficient president she was. She will be missed by the O.E.S., whose circle she served and adorned. She will be missed in the Episcopal church of which body she was a member and she will be missed by a large circle of personal friends who will hold her memory dear.

She leaves three daughters, Mrs. Alfred Johnson, Mrs. Arnold Johnson and Miss Grace, all of this city, and three brothers Thomas, William and James, also two sister, Mrs. Harriet Graves and Mrs. J.H. Lewis, all of Philadelphia.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
March 24, 1902; Page Two.

(Credit: Donna Williams)

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Died Feb. 26, 1902

OBITUARY
MRS. EVE MORGAN

Died at St. Olaf's Hospital Friday morning at 5 o'clock of childbirth, Mrs. Eve Morgan.

Mary James was born in Moscow twenty-nine years ago and has lived the greater part of her life in that village. She was the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. James. She was married to Eve Morgan, June 27, 1898 and since that time has lived on a farm at Moscow.

Mrs. Morgan's condition had been critical since the birth of her child three weeks ago and on Wednesday she was brought to St. Olaf's hospital. She was unconscious at that time and could not be brought back to life but breathed her last at five this morning. Beside her husband and child Mrs. Morgan leaves a father, Jos. James, and three brothers, Mahlso(?), George and John.

The death of Mrs. Morgan has been a shock and the husband, father and brothers have the sympathy of their Austin friends.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
February 28, 1902; Page Two.

(Credit: Donna Williams)

©2011 MNGenweb

 

Jun. 1, 1843
Feb. 18, 1901

It was the darkest shadow of the deepest sorrow that fell upon the family circle when Mrs. Roxie T. Buck passed quietly away. She was 56 years 8 months and 16 days old and was born in Providence, R.I., June 1st, 1843. She came to Minnesota at an early date and was united in marriage to G.W. Buck June 6, 1863. Five children were born to them, four of whom are now living. The funeral was held at the Congregational church, Rev. Paul Winters officiated and the remains were laid to rest beneath the sod of the village cemetery. She was loved by all who knew her.

Austin Daily Herald; Austin, Minnesota
February 26, 1901; Page Two.

[ Credit: Donna Williams ]

©2011 MNGenweb