August 2, 1951 - June 17, 2019 (age 67)

Diana Kay Medgaarden, age 67, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Monday, June 17, 2019, at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota.

Diana Kay Hoy was born in Austin, Minnesota, to Eugene and Donna (Jech) Hoy on August 2, 1951. She grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School with the class of 1969. Diana then went on to attend Austin Vocational Technical College. She married Gary Medgaarden and together they had two sons, Jesse and Jacob. They were later divorced.

Diana had several jobs over the years including, as a DOT truck inspector, Central Co-op, and at St. Mark’s Living. She enjoyed riding motor cycle, arts and crafts, gardening, and loved the outdoors. Diana was also a great cook, loved listening to music, and fishing with her family. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and would do anything for her boys. Diana will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her two sons, Jesse and wife Kristin Medgaarden of Lyle, MN, Jacob Medgaarden of Lansing, MN; Rick Severtson, Diana’s significant other; three grandchildren, Megan Medgaarden, Noah Medgaarden, and Dawson Medgaarden; siblings, Bruce, Dale, Gale, Virginia, Laura, and Jerry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Donna Hoy; and one brother, David.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

November 4, 1957 - May 31, 2019 (age 61)

Marjorie Joyce (Hill) Bartholmey, age 61, of Adams, Minnesota, passed away Friday, May 31, 2019 at her home.

Marj was born to John and Gloria Hill in Austin, Minnesota, on November 4, 1957. She grew up on the family dairy farm outside of Adams, Minnesota where she learned the value of hard work. From her experiences, she shared many treasured memories of her time riding horses. Marj graduated from Southland High School in 1975. After high school she attended Rochester Technical School to become a medical clerical secretary.

On January, 27 1979, she married Kevin “Bart” Bartholmey at the Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, Iowa. They recently celebrated 40 years together. Marj and Bart made their home in Adams where they were blessed with 3 girls; Lora, Amanda, and Jennifer.

Marj worked at St. Mary’s Hospital as a medical secretary for 10 years and together, she and her husband owned and operated Bart’s Clubhouse in Adams. In 1987, she opened Marj’s Daycare where she cared for many children from the area who would come back to visit her. Marj loved children and worked as a paraprofessional for the Southland Early Childhood Program until 2014 when her health declined.

In her spare time, Marj enjoyed a passion for quilting. She had a gift for stitching and created hundreds of amazing quilts. She equally enjoyed gardening, fishing, camping, traveling with her husband, and spoiling her grandchildren.

Blessed to have shared in her life are; Kevin, her husband of 40 years, her mother; Gloria Hill of Adams, MN, daughters and son-in-laws; Lora (Dan) Nelson, Wilmont, MN, Amanda (Ramon) Cartagena, Rushmore, MN, Jennifer (Clint) Purkapile, Albert Lea, MN; 10 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Also surviving is her brother John D. Hill, Barb (Lowell) Franzen, sister-in-law Vickie Hill, Duane (Lorie) Hill, brother-in-law Brian (Deb) Bartholmey, Jean (Al) Heimer, Jill (Todd) Peterson, Dawn (Dan) Musial, Ann (Kim) Dublin, and many nieces and nephews.

Marj was preceded in death by her Dad, John Hill, brother David Hill, and her mother and father in law; Duane and Ethel Bartholmey.

She asked her family to extend a special thank you to Nancy Decker, Bette Schmitz, and Rachel Young for, “Always being there for her”.

Her family invites you to honor Marj with a celebration of life on Sunday, July 7 from noon until 4 pm at the family home in Adams.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

April 21, 1931 - May 31, 2019 (age 88)

Donald Wray Thayer, age 88 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Friday, May 31, 2019 at Mayo Clinic Health System Austin. Don was born on April 21, 1931 in Valley City, North Dakota, the son of Lester and Opal (Burcham) Thayer. He graduated from high school in Glenwood, Minnesota in 1949. Don went on to attend Hamline University and graduated from North Dakota State in 1958, with a degree in Education and a minor in Physical Education. Don then attended the University of New Mexico for a master’s degree in Education and went back to North Dakota State for Education Administration.

He taught in Wyoming and North Dakota and returned to Minnesota and furthered his education at Mankato State University. Don proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 4 years. He came to Austin, Minnesota in 1969 to teach music at Ellis Middle School. Don retired from teaching in 1992.

On September 8, 1972, he married Shirley Kniffen at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. The couple met while Don was filling in as the director of the Sweet Adelines. As a young man Don played tenor sax with many bands and at one time played bagpipes which were a gift from Shirley. He was a member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 91 in Austin. Don was a chef quality cook, he enjoyed playing sports and loved traveling with Shirley, especially to Paris. He studied French and Spanish and enjoyed fishing in Canada and wintering in the Padre Islands. Don was well loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Thayer of Austin, MN; Shirley’s children who were like his own, Cynthia (Larry) Weber of Austin, MN, Michelle (James) Lane of Austin, MN, Lee McDaniel of Cannon Falls, MN; four grandchildren: Melissa (Jason) Kirby, Brad (Leslie) Weber, Amy Tucker, and Jamie (Ryan) Norton; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Scott (Joan) Thayer of Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Opal Thayer; and sister, Gwen.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 7, 2019 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Mark Niethammer officiating. Visitation will be held from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota.

Memorials can be directed to St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Services are prearranged and performed with Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

May 29, 1935 - June 8, 2019

Obituary for Robert William Ulwelling

Robert W. Ulwelling, 84, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, joined his beloved Jo Anne on June 8, 2019.

Robert was born on May 29, 1935, in Dexter, Minnesota, to Isidore (Genevieve) Ulwelling. He grew up on the family farm near Rose Creek, graduated from Rose Creek High School, and lived on the farm all his life.

Robert proudly served his country during the Korean War. He was a self-taught machinist and welder. Robert generously shared his knowledge, taking time to crack a joke and share in the laughter with family and friends.

On November 11, 1996 he was united in marriage to Jo Anne Elleby at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Rose Creek, Minnesota

Robert and Jo Anne spent the last 24 years fishing, raising beef cattle, traveling, collecting and restoring antique tractors. Participated in numerous tractor shows and events. They spent out their golden years together, being the happiest their families had ever seen them.

Robert was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, numerous Oliver and International Harvester clubs. However, he always said his favorite tractor was the one that started first.

Robert is survived by his brothers, Paul Ulwelling, Dexter, Minnesota, Don (Carol) Ulwelling, Rose Creek, Minnesota, Gerald (Betty) Ulwelling, Meridian, Idaho; brother in laws Edwin (Connie) Elleby, Austin, Minnesota and Christian (Mary) Elleby, Hayward, Minnesota; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents Isidore and Genevieve; wife, Jo Anne; brother John Ulwelling; sister-in-law Joanne Ulwelling

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 am on Thursday, June 13, 2019 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Rose Creek with Fr. Swaminatha Pothireddy officating. Friend may call Wednesday, June 12, 2019 5-7 pm at Mayer Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in St.Peter's Cemetery.

Cemetery: St. Peter's Cemetery

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

December 17, 1927 - June 08, 2019

Donis LaVonne Hukee, formerly of Adams, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at St. Therese of Woodbury from complications from Progressive Supra-nuclear Palsy. She was 91 years old.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herb and Margie (Christenson) Osmundson, and her brothers, Harold and his wife Gladys, Lloyd, David and Gerald Osmundson.

Donis is survived by her husband, Bernard Hukee Jr.; her children, John Hukee and wife Debbie, Bruce Hukee and wife Julie, and Margie Hoyle; her eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; her sister, Diane and her husband Bobby Smith, and her sisters-in-law, Cleo Osmundson, Ardy Osmundson and Donna Osmundson.

Donis was born December 17, 1927 in Adams, Minnesota. Donis was the oldest of six children.

She married her husband Bernie and they were blessed with almost 69 years together. Donis and Bernie loved to travel. They took their children to several memorable destinations on family trips including, Montreal for the 1967 World's Fair, Disneyland, Banff National Park, and to the east coast.

After Bernie retired, Donis and Bernie took cruises to Alaska, Norway and South America. They took trips to Australia, England, New Zealand and Hawaii. They also traveled extensively to see their children and great grandchildren perform and compete in different activities.

Donis was a gifted singer. Her vocal talent allowed her to perform at different venues and events as a featured soloist. Her favorite songs to perform were How Great Thou Art and The Lord's Prayer.

She was a loving mother who volunteered in her kids’ elementary classes. She also loved to cook and bake. She took great pride in making home-made cakes and cookies for her children and grandchildren. She loved to serve her family and her church.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 13th at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with the Reverend Jeremy Johnson officiating. Interment will be at the Little Cedar Cemetery in Adams. Visitation will be from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., prior to the service on Thursday morning, at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

October 28, 1931 - June 13, 2019

U.S. Veteran

Arvid Duane “Bud” Lau was born on October 28, 1931, and passed away on June 13, 2019, at age 87, at Sacred Heart Care Center.

“Bud” was a son to Harvey and Cora (Westrum) Lau. Brother to Elaine “Toots” Gillard, Arcley Wahlers, Esther “Eder” (Laverne) Walheim, Sharron Berg and Robert (Mary) Lau. Brother-in-law to Oscar and Carol Huff and David and Carolyn Bell.

Bud’s most important roles or titles were: husband to Marjorie (his “honey”); dad to Doug Lau, Tim and Amy Lau; and papa to Aaron, Emilee, Jeremy, Ethan and Grace. He was also an “Honorary” dad to Greg Kral and grandpa to Spencer Kral.

Bud grew up in the Glenville area. After graduation he enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Texas. Once he returned to Minnesota, he worked at various jobs (including Hormel Foods). His last and most loved job was as a “foreman” for Kral farms.

We will miss him dearly, but he is happy now -- reunited with “Marge” in heaven.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 18 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

September 10, 1948 - June 09, 2019

Georgena May Linbo, 70, of Hayfield, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2019, at Seasons Hospice House in Rochester, Minnesota.

Georgena was born on September 10, 1948, the daughter of George and Irene (DesCombaz) Norman in Austin, Minnesota. She graduated from Austin High School in 1966, and went to Cosmetology School in Austin. She was united in marriage to Kevin Linbo on June 13, 1981.

Georgena did Day Care in her home for over 25 years. She enjoyed going to their cabin at Shell Lake, Wisconsin and spending time with her grandchildren, friends and family.

Georgena is survived by her husband, Kevin Linbo, Hayfield, MN; children, Gretchen Linbo (Jeff) Becker, Garrison and Maxwell, Dodge Center, MN; Katie Linbo (Brian) Coleman, Abe and Iris, Kasson, MN; sisters, Judy Norman Low, Franklin, KY; Kathy Norman Berg, New Richland, MN; Mary Ann Norman Schlaak, New Richland, MN; 22 nephews and nieces; 59 great-nephews and nieces; three great-great-nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Irene Norman; sister and brother-in-law, Delores and Roy Dyke; brother-in-law, Stan Berg; father and mother-in-law, John & LaVaine Linbo; brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Cindy Linbo.

Visitation will be 4:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2019, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 501 2nd Street NW in Hayfield with a Sharing of Memories at 7:30 p.m. There will be a visitation at the church one hour before the service.

The funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Evanger Lutheran Church, 33554 660th Avenue, Sargeant, MN with Reverend Paul Welke officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd Street NW Hayfield, Minnesota. 507-477-2259

Blessed be her memory.

SOURCE: Czaplewski Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

May 21, 1951 - June 11, 2019

Sally Pettitt, 68, passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, at Our Lady of Peace Home in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Sally was born on May 21, 1951, the daughter of Lorenz and Luella (Johnson) Schieck. She graduated from Austin High School in 1969 and then attended Rochester Community and Technical College.

She was united in marriage to Randy Pettitt, her high school sweetheart, on September 11, 1971, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Sally worked for Montgomery Ward in St. Paul, MN and then at Maurices Corporation in Duluth for 12 years. After returning to the Twin Cities, Sally worked with Pro Media Production in Roseville, MN and later at Home Instead as a home health aide. Sally loved spending time with family and friends and always remembered everyone’s birthdays and special occasions. Traveling around the world with her husband Randy, gardening, camping, and cheering for the Minnesota Twins were some of her many passions. Her beautiful smile, sense of humor and kindness will be missed by all who knew her. Sally had a precious heart.

Sally is survived by her husband, Randy Pettitt, North St. Paul, MN; siblings, Marcia Christensen, Rochester, MN; Mike (Lorinda) Schieck, Rochester, MN; Rita (George) Heydt, Hayfield, MN; and Dwight Schieck, Hayfield, MN. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A service of remembrance will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 28, 2019, at the Czaplewski Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 801 7th Street SE in Kasson, MN and one hour before the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in Sally’s memory to Our Lady of Peace Home, 2076 St. Anthony Ave. St. Paul, MN 55104, ourladyofpeacemn.org or Animal Humane Society, 845 Meadow Lane North, Golden Valley, MN 55422, animalhumanesociety.org,

Blessed be her memory.

SOURCE: Czaplewski Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Obituary for Gerald Martin Landherr

May 22, 1930 - June 12, 2019

Gerald Martin Landherr, 89, of Austin, Minnesota, died suddenly of natural causes Wednesday, June 12, 2019, at his home in Austin.

Jerry was born on May 22, 1930, in Austin, Minnesota, a short distance from the family home in Rose Creek, and was the oldest of three children. Jerry played football at Rose Creek High School and was one of 10 students to graduate in the class of 1947.

He enjoyed working at his father’s business, Rose Creek Produce, and frequently traveled the gravel roads of Adams, Johnsburg, Taopi, Rose Creek and other small towns picking up chickens and eggs for distribution to New York, Chicago and other larger cities.

In the fall of 1947, Jerry entered St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn., and later transferred to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to obtain his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. In the 1950s, Jerry worked at various pharmacies, including Peoples Drug on Main Street and St. Olaf Hospital, where he met his first wife, who worked as a lab technician.

In 1960, he opened his own drugstore, Landherr Rexall Drug, on Austin’s east side — fondly known as Dutch Town. The drug store became a thriving business where Jerry employed all seven of his children and taught them to follow his own strong, demanding work ethic.

In 1957, Jerry married Marie Theresa Ellis after a work-inspired romance at St. Olaf Hospital. Unashamed, Jerry later revealed he often made needless trips to the hospital blood lab just to visit with the lab technician — a tall, striking brunette from Ohio. In 1968, Marie died one month after delivering her seventh child. In 1971, Jerry married Rita Ann Ryan who adopted all seven children and made the Landherr family whole again.

After 47 years of marriage, Rita died of metastatic colon cancer in March 2018. During Rita’s final years of agonizing pain, surgeries and chemotherapy, Jerry transformed into the most dedicated, empathetic and diligent care provider imaginable. His unyielding efforts fulfilled Rita’s earnest desire to die comfortably at home.

In 1978, Landherr Rexall Drug was devastated by the 100-year flood, which also led to extreme financial hardship in order to restore the business. Jerry’s work ethic was hard to fathom and he was steadfast in his mission to again provide for his family. Once the embodiment of strong German stoicism, Jerry slowly revealed his true, loving core and even — eventually — dared to initiate frequent hugs.

Fondly, Jerry would reminisce about his days in the Knights of Columbus and would share photographs of fellow Knights in vibrant, caped uniforms that emitted pageantry and public witness to the faith of Catholic men.

Raising seven children, running his own business and eventually having to endure the death of both wives demanded a strong Catholic faith which Jerry embraced. His home church of Queen of Angels provided stability and purpose at many points in Jerry’s life. Parenting the seven children often proved daunting due to their misadventures and propensity toward delinquency.

In the 1970s, the Landherr children launched an ill-fated attempt to collect money for “Jerry’s Kids” during the Labor Day Jerry Lewis Telethon, but for Jerry Landherr’s kids. In his wise, yet stern response to such shenanigans, Jerry opined: “great enthusiasm — wrong pockets.”

Jerry’s no-nonsense approach to life and endurance through grief and crisis was quietly admired by and embedded in his children. Jerry didn’t preach or lecture; he truly led by example.

Gerald is survived by his children, William (Pat Kohler) Landherr of Minneapolis, Michael (Sarah) Landherr of Austin, Patrick Landherr of Savage, Minn., Michelle (Tom) Halek of Maple Grove, Minn., Andrew (Betsy) Landherr of Lake Elmo, Minn., Kathleen (Chris) Pierson of Ankeny, Iowa, and Kenneth (Shelly) Landherr of Prior Lake, Minn.; sister Jean Fallon of St. Paul; 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and life-long friend John Meany of Rose Creek

Preceding Jerry in death were his parents, Martin Joseph and Margaret Greene Landherr, sister Mary Ann Berg, first wife Marie Theresa Landherr, second wife Rita Ann Landherr, and a stillborn child.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, at Queen of Angels Church in Austin with Father Dale Tupper and Deacon Paul Tschann presiding. Visitation will be Monday, June 17, at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will also be visitation one hour before the Mass at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be made to the Sisters of St. Francis (Assisi Heights) in Rochester, Queen of Angels Church in Austin, or to the charity of choice. Condolences may be left on line at www.mayerfh.com

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

June 15, 1952 - June 8, 2019 (age 66)

Douglas Eugene Schroeder, age 66, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, June 8, 2019 at Mayo Clinic Health System Austin, surrounded by his loving family.

Douglas was born on June 15, 1952, in Alameda, California, to Donald and Norma Jean (Henaman) Schroeder. He graduated from Austin High School in 1969. Doug served his country in the U.S. Army and fought in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1972, and he went on to attended Austin Technical College and earned a couple of degrees.

On June 5, 2010, Doug married Shellie Leidal in Austin. He worked in the HVAC industry and owned his own business in the early 1980’s until 1995. Doug also worked as a mechanic at various packaging companies. He was a hard-working man who loved to help everyone. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, bowling, and riding his Harley. Anyone that knew Doug, knows that he enjoyed M&M’s by the pound and Vanilla Wafers. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Doug was well loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife Shellie of Austin; his children, Jason Anderson of Brownsdale, MN, Irene (Scott) Hill of Dexter, MN, Kevin (Mindy) Schroeder of Delano, MN, stepdaughter, Heather (Brianna) Godtland of Albert Lea, MN and step son, Travis (Heather) Cameron of Albert Lea, MN; grandchildren, Miranda, Alyssa, Sabrina, Damian, David, Dezeray, Dawson, Dalton and Vatia; step grandchildren include Haley, Trista, Travis Jr. and Andrew; great-grandchildren, Myla, Paityn and Theodore and step great-grandchildren include Jayden and Jemma; brother, Doran (Darcy) Schroeder of Austin; and many nieces, nephews many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Norma Jean.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, 2019, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin and will continue one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Military rites will be conducted by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216, both of Austin, MN. Interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

October 10, 1935 - June 16, 2019 (age 83)

Virgil Otto Waltz, age 83 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away suddenly early Sunday afternoon, June 16, 2019.

Virg, son of Caleb and Della (Johnson) Waltz, was born on October, 10, 1935 in Albert Lea, Minnesota. In 1958, Virg enlisted into the United States Army where he served until his honorable discharge in 1960. He was united in marriage to Jean Tridle on May 23, 1964, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Minnesota, and they made their home in Austin where they raised their four sons. Virg was a heavy equipment operator most of his life, and owned and operated Waltz Excavating.

He was a lifelong Austin resident and was an active member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, the Eagles Club, and was a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge. Virg belonged to the American Legion Post 91 and Operating Engineers Local 49. He was very mechanically inclined and enjoyed building things. Virg loved spending time with his family and friends, and was a big fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his children, James (Brenda) Waltz of Hines, MN, Phillip (Kristy) Waltz of Velva, ND, Daniel (Melissa) Waltz of Farmington, MN; significant other, Carol Schlichter of Austin, MN; 10 grandchildren, Jamie, Joel, Holly, Jim, Nick, Joe, Caity, Luke, Katrina, and Tommy; 10 great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Caleb and Della Waltz; wife, Jean Waltz; son, Mark Waltz; and brother, Dean Waltz.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Mark Niethammer officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday morning. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota, with military honors by the American Legion Post 91. In lieu of flowers memorials can be directed to donor’s choice. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

September 26, 1937 - June 17, 2019 (age 81)

Robert Jessie Allen, age 81, of Mapleview, Minnesota, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, June 17, 2019.

Bob was born on September 26, 1937, in northern Minnesota, to Ernest and Nina (White) Allen. He married Suzzane Johnson in Austin, Minnesota, on October 10, 1964. The couple moved to Donna, Texas in 1972 and moved back to Austin in 2009. Bob was the jack of all trades and he loved his computer. He enjoyed helping people and traveling. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Suzzane Allen of Mapleview, Minnesota; one sister, Marlene Gleason of Perham, Minnesota; and a host of relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Nina Allen; one brother, Ernest Jr., and one sister, Darlene Foft.

Per Bob’s wishes no services will be held. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

January 1, 1941 - June 17, 2019 (age 78)

Say Blu, age 78, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Monday, June 17, 2019, at her home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at Grace Baptist Church in Austin. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday morning. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin.

The family invites you to join them for lunch at their home following the interment, 406 12th St. NE. Austin, MN 55912. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

June 8, 1937 -- June 18, 2019 (age 82)

Robert Kenneth “Bob” Jochumsen, age 82 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at Mayo Clinic Health System Austin.

Bob was born on June 8, 1937 in Lyle, Minnesota, to Kenneth and Elva (Brandt) Jochumsen. He grew up in Lyle and graduated from Lyle High School in 1955. On June 29, 1958, Bob was united in marriage to LaRayne Lomholt at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. LaRayne passed away May 27, 2019. Bob worked for 32 years at the American Can Company and then for International Can where he worked until his retirement in 1997.

He was a member of the American Legion, The Eagles Club, and Our Saviors Lutheran Church, where Bob loved to usher on Sunday mornings. His hobbies consisted of fishing, hunting, and league bowling. Many of his mornings were spent eating breakfast at various locations around Austin including at the Moose Club on Sunday mornings. He loved to take driving trips through the country, traveling to Iowa to get gas because it was cheaper, and to Diamond Jo Casino. Bob was a devoted Minnesota Viking and Twins fan and especially loved spending time with family. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his children, Kevin Jochumsen of Austin, MN, Kellee Jochumsen of Austin, MN, KaLyn Ellis of Seattle, WA, Kendahl Jochumsen of Rochester, MN, Karyn Nelson of Austin, MN, Kerry (Katie) Jochumsen of Austin, MN; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Elva Jochumsen; wife, LaRayne Jochumsen; daughter-in-law, Alberta Jochumsen; and granddaughter, Sarah Beth Jochumsen.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2019 at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin. Interment will be held at a later date in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Nelly's Obituary

Nelly Croes, 93, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on June 12, 2019 at St. Marys Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota.

Nelly was born in Juvincourt, France, on April 22, 1926. Nelly evacuated her home in 1940 and lived in Paris until early 1944, earning a degree as a legal secretary in commercial school. Returning to the Champagne region, she worked as secretary of the mayor of Guignicourt, France. There she met her future husband shortly after its liberation in World War II. During the remainder of the war, she worked as an English, French and German translator for the US Government. She married Victor Croes on December 1, 1947 at St. Jean de Baptiste Church in New York City. She worked for the Hormel Co. for 40 years in the Vault, engineering and transportation departments.

She loved to travel and was an avid reader. She often gave talks in her later years regarding her war experiences and published a booklet, Nelly’s Journey, in cooperation with the Mower County Historical Society. She will be sadly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor Croes in 1989; her parents, Eudoxie and Edouard Bettex; sisters, Paulette Bacart and Christiane Chenevoy.

Nelly is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Roberta Croes of Minnetonka, Minnesota; daughter and son-in-law, Victoria and Kenneth Worsdale of Singapore and Beaver Creek, Colorado; grandsons, Gavin Worsdale of Madison, Wisconsin and Christopher Worsdale of Boulder Colorado; and many nieces and nephews in France.

Nelly’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 29 at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Fellowship will continue during a luncheon following the service. A private interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

September 21, 1922 - June 17, 2019

U.S. Veteran

Clinton Durrell Peterson, 96, passed away at Field Crest Care Center in Hayfield, Minnesota, on June 17, 2019.

Clinton was born on September 21, 1922, the son of Carl and Helga (Oyen) Peterson in Waltham, Minnesota. He served in the United States Army from 1942-1945 and was united in marriage to Patricia Buckman on October 26, 1947, in Dodge Center. Clinton was Foreman of the Rendering Division at Hormel in Austin for 35 years. The couple had resided in Austin, Wykoff and Rochester and Clinton lived in Hayfield the past four years. He was a member of the Hayfield American Legion. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and woodworking.

Clinton is survived by his children, Charles (Susan) Peterson, Austin, MN; David (Cathy) Peterson, Rochester, MN; Thomas (Valeria) Peterson, Belle Plaine, MN and Beverly (Jerry) Snow, Zumbro Falls, MN; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister, Constance Jean Grant, Preston, MN; and sister-in-law, Bev Morton, Rochester, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Patricia; one brother, Color; sister-in-law, Barbara; and brother-in-law, Merlin Grant.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, June 22, 2019, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 501 2nd Street NW with Reverend Paul Hauschild officiating. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, with Military Honors by the Hayfield American Legion Rothie Post #330.

Blessed be his memory.

SOURCE: Czaplewski Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

August 2, 1959 -- June 19, 2019 (age 59)

Funeral services for Brad Whelan will be held 3:00 P.M. Sunday June 23, 2019 at Grand Meadow Lutheran Church in Grand Meadow, Minnesota, with Pastor Megan Reedstrom officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 P.M. until the time of service at the church.

Bradley A. Whelan, age 59, of Grand Meadow died Wednesday June 19, 2019, at his home in Grand Meadow. He was born August 2, 1959, the son of Thomas and Shirley (Lawrence) Whelan in Albert Lea, Minnesota. At a young age the family moved to the Alden, MN area where he attended school. Brad was a member of the football, wrestling and track team at Alden Conger High School. He graduated in 1977.

He was married to Diane Stillings and had two children, Katie and Nick. They later divorced. Brad was working on the new school in Grand Meadow through Lindquist Construction when he met Lisa, the love of his life. The two married on August 21, 2004 in Grand Meadow. Brad was currently employed at Pyramid Transportation. Together they raised their 5 children. As a family they enjoyed fishing, camping, and hanging out at the farm. Brad was an avid fisherman, enjoyed solving Wheel of Fortune puzzles with Lisa and Friday Night Fun Night.

Brad loved his family and was especially fond of his 12 grandchildren who always enjoyed his Donald Duck impression. Brad was the rock to his siblings, always keeping his family close. He would share stories with his siblings at family gatherings to keep the memories alive. He will always be known as “The Story Teller”. Brad and Lisa enjoyed fishing, doing yard work together and had plans to travel more. Brad will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his wife Lisa Whelan of Grand Meadow, children; Sargent Katie Whelan of Spanaway, WA, Nick (Bree) Whelan of Mankato, MN, Josh (Randi) Gunderson of West Concord, MN, Aaron (Brittany) Riedemann of Rochester, MN, Amber Riedemann of Grand Meadow, MN and Andrew Riedemann of Bozeman, MT, 12 grandchildren; Riley, Layton, Jaxsyn, Jameson, Haivyn, Iyla, Garrett, Taylor,Beckham, Ryker, Emmett, and Koah, his mother-in-law Janet Lorenzen of Grand Meadow and his siblings; Lugene (Kevin Johnson) Anderson of Albert Lea, Craig (Terri) Whelan of Alden, Brian (Chandra) Whelan of Albert Lea, Sheryl Whelan of Wells, MN, Danny (Brenda) Whelan of Albert Lea, Traci (Carlisle)Corson of Preston, and Matthew (Trisha) Whelan of Albert Lea, brothers-in-law; Frank (Karen Lorenzen of Fresno, CA and Robin (Janet) Lorenzen of Grand Meadow and a sister-in-law; Lori (Craig) Parker also many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Randy Whelan; a nephew, Landon Corson; and father-in-law, David Lorenzen.

Condolences may be left at www.Hindtfuneralhomes.com

SOURCE: Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

December 5, 1938 -- June 20, 2019 (age 80)

Karen T. Bloom, age 80 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, June 20, 2019 at her home.

Karen Tonette Kittleson was born on December 5, 1938, in Owasa, Iowa, the daughter of Sherwin Raymond and Ila Irene Viola (Bookhart) Kittleson. She grew up in St. Ansgar, Iowa, and graduated in 1956, from St. Ansgar High School.

On August 5, 1956, Karen was united in marriage to Darrell Bloom at the First Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, Iowa. Karen began working for one year as a secretary for Prudential Insurance in Beloit, Wisconsin. She then worked as a secretary for a lawyer’s office in Austin, Minnesota for two years. Karen then went on to a 40-year career working for the director of the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, in Austin, Minnesota, retiring in 2000. In addition to working for the Hormel Institute, Karen was also a full-time farm wife and would come home and help milk cows alongside her husband Darrell.

During her retirement years, Karen loved to read, play on the computer, and enjoyed lots of crossword puzzles and word play games. She also enjoyed going camping and the privacy it gave her. Karen was a member of the First Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, Iowa. She was very family oriented and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Darrell Bloom of Austin, MN; children, Kathryn (Leonard) Dunn of Alta Vista, IA; Diane (Bruce Thompson) Hammermeister of Lake Mills, IA; Julie (Dave) Rye of Austin, MN; foster children; eight grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and two on the way; one great-great-granddaughter; brothers, Stan (Judy) Kittleson of Blue Grass, IA, Roger (Julie) Kittleson of Waterloo, IA; sister-in-law, Maryann Kittleson of St. Ansgar, IA; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sherwin and Ila Kittleson; and one brother, Edward Kittleson.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 27, 2019, at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Rev. Arvid Jovaag officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26, at Worlein Funeral Home in Austin, and will continue one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Connie's Obituary

Constance “Connie” Olson, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday morning, June 23, 2019 at Sacred Heart Care Center after a five year battle with lung cancer.

Constance “Connie” Baxter Olson was born September 20, 1930 in Madison, Wisconsin to Harvey and Loris (Baker) Baxter. Her parents divorced when she was nine months old, so she went to live with her adoptive parents, Dorothy and Howard Angell, her aunt and uncle. The Angells had a dairy farm and Connie liked to live there. She belonged to 4-H and later to the Rural Youth group. She went to a one-room school house, the old Woodson School on South River Street. She graduated from Austin High School in 1948. She worked at the office of Geo. A. Hormel & Co. during her senior year in high school and then continued for four years.

She married S. Duane Olson on September 11, 1949 and they have celebrated 69 years together. For a decade, she worked for Josephine Kremer, Director of Elementary Education of the Austin Public Schools. Then she worked at the Hormel Foods Corporate Office for 25 years. She retired in January of 1992.

She loved her church, Westminster Presbyterian, and served as an Elder, a Deacon twice, participated on the Fellowship Committee and Worship Committee. She also went to Mike’s Bible Study on Tuesday mornings and was active in Pot Pourri Circle. She was a Charter member of the Hormel Historic Home Y’s Women, belonged to South River Street Home Extension Project Club, Austin Medical Center Auxiliary and Keepsake Quilters.

She liked to get together with friends for coffee and she liked to spend time at gatherings with her five classmates every month for the last 53 years. Family events were her most fun, especially picnics and grandchildren’s birthday parties where she always had chocolate chip cookies for them. She enjoyed attending the grandchildren’s music concerts and sporting events. Her roses and gardening were one of her favorite pasttimes. She considered books a “gift” and was an avid reader. She and Duane belonged to various square dance clubs in the area for many years and thoroughly enjoyed dancing.

Sports were an essential part of her life and she could be found cheering for the Austin Packer football and basketball teams and also the Minnesota Gophers football and basketball teams and Minnesota Lynx. She and Duane loved to travel and did a lot of it in their retirement years making journeys to Alaska, Hawaii, Bastogne, Belgium, Paris, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Canyonlands and other destinations in the U.S. Camping trips were fun when the family was growing up. Trips were made to Fort Myers Beach several winters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; adoptive parents, Dorothy and Howard Angell; her brothers, Warner E. Baxter and Donald (Juanita) Angell and a favorite aunt, Frances M. Baxter.

Connie leaves her husband, Stewart Duane Olson, Austin, MN; son, Stewart (Cheryl) Olson, Chaska; daughter, Joani (Robert) Phelps, Grosse Ile, Michigan; son, Scott (Ruth) Olson, Minneapolis and son, Lance (Trudy) Olson, Edina; eight grandchildren, Anthony (Jilian) Phelps, Belvidere, Illinois, Matthew Phelps, Tamuning, Guam, Nathan Olson, San Jose, California, Annie Olson, Minneapolis, Claire Olson, Minneapolis, and Meredith Olson, Minneapolis, Andrew Olson, Edina and Sarah Olson, Edina; great-grandchildren, Clara Eve Phelps and Henry Robert Phelps; brother, David (Myrna) Angell, Uniontown, Ohio; sisters-in-law, Phyllis Gross, Owatonna, Cleone Morgan, Apple Valley and Janice (Robert) Chinnow, Marietta; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 27th at Westminster Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Michael Olmsted and the Reverend Brittany MacMillan officiating. Visitation will be at the church one hour before the service. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the The Hormel Historic Home, The Hormel Institute, or donor’s choice. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

December 23, 1939 -- June 22, 2019 (age 79)

Mary Jean (Shane) Kikuts, age 79, born on December 23, 1939, in Austin, Minnesota. Mary was one of 3 siblings belonging to Roy and Bernice Shane of Austin, Minnesota. She attended Queen of Angels grade school and Austin High School. She had 8 children. Mary was very actively involved with her church, Lighthouse of Hope Church. She worked many services related jobs as she always had the heart of a servant just like her Jesus. Mary loved people and worked most of her senior years as a part-time employee or volunteer in nursing homes such as Thorn Crest and Good Samaritan in Albert Lea, MN and most recently Sacred Heart Nursing Home in Austin.

She passed away on June 22 at approximately 10:55 pm. peacefully in her home.

Mary had a emphysema and Stage 4 lung cancer that took her life quickly.

Mary is survived by her husband, Romans Eriks Kikuts of Austin, MN; a brother Gary Francis Shane (Deborah) from Hartwell, GA; seven of her children, Deborah Jean (Jerry) Fogal, Lanesboro, MN; David John Iverson, Sr., Litchfield, MN; Theresa Dawn (Robert) Hauschildt, Lake Norden, SD; Christine Mae (Dennis) Jenson, Milaca, MN; Colleen (Patrick) Erpelding, Litchfield, MN; Judy Lynn (Tim) Huettemann, Lake Norden, SD; Terry Lee DeVlaeminck, Superior, WI; Jessie Wayne (Paula) Hanson, Clarks Grove, MN. She has 28 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Francis Shane and Bernice Evelyn (Nelson) Shane; her sister, Sharon (Clayton) Wilkerson, Albert Lea, MN; and her son Timothy Allen Hanson (1976-1980).

Memorial services will be held at Lighthouse of Hope Church, 2909 W. Oakland Ave., Austin, MN 55912, Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 11 am. All memorials are to be sent to the church. She will be waiting for you all to come to Jesus so she can see you again! That was always her prayer.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Sidney Jones Fister, 91 of LeRoy, Minnesota, and formerly of Lyle, Minnesota, died on Friday, June 21, 2019, at Wildwood Grove Assisted Living & Memory Care Center where he had made his home since November 2017.

Sid was born on May 16, 1928, to Casper and Mary (Jones) Fister at their home in LeRoy. When Sid was six years old he went to spend the summer with his great aunt and uncle, Tillie and John Thiedemann who lived on a farm 5 miles south of LeRoy. He continued to live with them until he married and considered them to be his second set of parents.

Sid attended the LeRoy Public Schools and graduated in 1946. After his graduation Sid worked for the local phone company and later drove a delivery truck for Goodrich & Shackleford Egg Produce. In January, 1951, Sid joined the Minnesota National Guard and served at Camp Rucker in Alabama until his honorable discharge in October, 1952.

It was at that time that he returned to his home town and was re-hired by Central Iowa Telephone (which later became General Telephone - GTE) working on the telephone line crew. Along with finding a job that suited him well, it was Sid’s good fortune to meet Martha Johnson, one of the telephone switchboard operators. They were married on July 24, 1954 at LeRoy Lutheran Church. Sid and Martha were blessed with one son, Dana, in 1955. In 1958, Sid was transferred to Lyle, Minnesota to become the area’s Installer/Repairman. He faithfully served in that capacity for 38 years and retired in 1990.

Sid placed his faith and trust in Christ as his personal savior as a young boy. He was baptized when he was 12 years old in Lake Louise at Wildwood Park north of LeRoy. Sid and Martha were faithful members of Grace Baptist Church in Austin. Sid served for many years on the Trustee Board and also served as a greeter on Sunday mornings. The Fisters were active members of the Lyle community and lived there for 60 years. Sid was a member of The Lyle American Legion, Lyle Lions Club and the Lyle Commercial Club.

Activities that brought Sid much enjoyment were hunting, traveling, watching the Minnesota Twins, bike riding, walking at Oak Park Mall, talking finances with his brother and spending time with family. Sid especially enjoyed his grandchildren and loved attending their many activities.

Even though Alzheimer’s disease robbed Sid of some precious memories, he continued to enjoy life until the very end. Because of this illness, Sid and Martha eventually made their home at Wildwood Grove in LeRoy, where they have been cared for and treated like family.

Sid is survived by his loving wife of nearly 65 years, Martha; one son, Dana and his wife Becky (Hansen) of Riceville, Iowa; grandchildren, Brooke (Jason) Silberhorn of Ocala, Florida, Laurel (Mike) Lingle, also of Ocala, Florida and Cole (Kayla) Fister of Bondurant, Iowa; great-grandchildren, Harley, Lindie, Mahri, Ashlyn, Jones and Ari; sister, Mary Lou Hungerford; sisters-in-law, Pauline Fister and Pat Johnson; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Casper and Mary; special great-aunt Tillie and great-uncle John Thiedemann; brother, Roger; brothers-in-law, Louie Hungerford, Norman Johnson and Gary Johnson and nephew, Bruce Hungerford.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 1st at Grace Baptist Church in Austin with Pastor Devin Larsen and Pastor Dan Mielke officiating. Interment will be in LeRoy Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 30th from 3 to 6 p.m. at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary, and will continue on Monday morning for one hour prior to services at church.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

November 5, 1935 -- June 22, 2019 (age 83)

Malcolm Russell Struthers, age 83 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Saturday, June 22, 2019 at his home.

Mal was born on November 5, 1935, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Rosco and Katherine (Sutton) Struthers. He attended a three-room school in Sprague, Manitoba, Canada. Mal married Ilyne Alice Olson on August 21, 1954 in Warroad, Minnesota. They lived in Warroad for the first few years of their married life. They moved to Centuria, Wisconsin where Mal was a lineman. He and Ilyne started a successful lumberyard, Struthers Building Mart, in Centuria.

After 10 years they sold the lumberyard in order to move to Ilyne’s hometown, Warroad, Minnesota. They packed up the variety store Ilyne had started in Centuria and moved it to Warroad. They operated Variety Village in Warroad, selling it in 1983. Mal and Ilyne had three children and were later divorced. Mal married Peggy Gauthier on May 7, 1994. During his retirement, Mal worked at the Beer Depot in Austin, which was managed by Peggy. Mal loved going to coffee, dancing (he met Peggy at a dance in Baudette) and working with the public. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mal is survived by his children, Gale Struthers of Bemidji, MN, Holly (LaDon) Howes of Bemidji, MN; Peggy’s children, John (Melissa) Wilder of Manhattan, IL, Jeffrey Wilder of Plano, TX, Jodi (Michael) Ring of Baudette, MN, Jennifer (Tim) Nordlof of Baudette, MN, Jane Wilder of Baudette, MN; brother Doug (Ev) Struthers; sister Joyce McDonnell; many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Rosco and Katherine Struthers; son Malcolm Russell Struthers, Jr.; sisters Marion Blanchfield, Katherine (Kay) Adams, Beverly (Bev) Struthers; brother Ross Struthers.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2019, at Helgeson Funeral Home Chapel in Baudette, Minnesota.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Geneva Marie (Hinz) Rusher, 94, of Adams, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at the Adams Health Care Center.

Geneva was born October 3, 1924 at rural LuVerne, Iowa to Adeline Augusta (Lena) and Johann Heinrich (Henry) Hinz. She was the fourth child of seven children: (Herbert, Francis, Dorothy, Geneva, Eunice, Delores, and Donna). She was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in LuVerne.

Geneva went to country school near the Hinz family farm east of LuVerne, attended Parochial School at Zion Lutheran Church, LuVerne, Iowa, and then graduated from Vernon High School, Renwick, Iowa in 1942. Geneva married Harley Ezra Rusher on November 28, 1943 at Zion Lutheran Church, LuVerne, Iowa. They became loving and caring parents of two children, Kurt and Pam.

Geneva and Harley farmed in the LuVerne and Bancroft, Iowa areas and then moved to the rural Brownsdale/Austin, Minnesota area where they purchased their farm in 1972. They enjoyed working the land as well as caring for their livestock and beloved pets. Both remained on their farm until Harley died on February 9, 2007 and Geneva moved to Cedar Court Apartments in Adams, Minnesota three years later. She was admitted to the Adams Care Center, Adams, Minnesota in January 2017.

Geneva loved the “farm life” and looked forward to each season and its unfolding beauty. She cherished time with family including her precious grandchildren and great grandchildren. Geneva liked gardening, traveling, reading, tending her flowers and violets, and helping out wherever she could. Homemade chicken noodle soup was one of her culinary specialties as well as great pies (one of her favorites being blueberry). She also enjoyed dancing and playing cards and could strike up a conversation with anyone.

She was an active member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Brownsdale, Minnesota. Geneva encouraged her children and grandchildren to be “faithful” in their relationship and service to the Lord and took pleasure in sharing faith conversations with others. One of Geneva’s favorite Bible verses was her confirmation verse which comes from the latter part of Rev. 2:10 – “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” She would often quote this to her loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Lena Hinz; husband, Harley; daughter-in-law, Judy (Kollasch) Rusher; brothers, Herbert Hinz and Francis Hinz; sisters and their spouses, Dorothy (Leon) Wood, Eunice (Cleo) Harter, Delores (Bernard) Miller, and Donna (Joe) Underberg.

Left to cherish Geneva’s memory are her children: Kurtis Rusher, Rose Creek, Minnesota and Pamela (Derald) Goetz, Algona, Iowa; five grandchildren: Chad (Danae) Goetz, Scott Rusher, Heidi (Dave) Michels, Shawn (Vanessa) Goetz, Pastor Brian (Cari) Goetz Jack; 13 great-grandchildren: Noah Michels, Christian Michels, Mariah Michels, Korben Michels, Breeanna, Goetz, Whitney Goetz, Dayton Goetz, Carter Goetz, Evan Goetz, Bianca Goetz, Sidney Goetz, Blair (Goetz) Jack and Judah (Goetz) Jack; nieces, nephews and extended family.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 28th at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Brownsdale with the Reverend Ronald Prigge officiating. Interment will be in the LuVerne Cemetery in LuVerne, Iowa. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Thursday, June 27th from 5 to 7 p.m. and will continue on Friday morning for one hour prior to services at the church.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

April 26, 1928 - June 22, 2019

Obituary for Frances Louise Larkoski

Frances Louise “Fran” Larkoski, age 91 of Austin, died Saturday, June 22, 2019 at the Adams Health Care Center.

Fran was born April 26, 1928 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Arthur and Ellen McDonald. She grew up in Austin and graduated from St. Augustine High School.

On August 20, 1949 she was united in marriage to Allan Larkoski at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin.

Fran was a member of St. Augustine Church and St. Augustine Ladies Ancillary. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, and knitting. She particularly enjoyed when her grandchildren would come to visit her.

Survivors include her daughter, Julie Potter of Minnetonka, MN; son, Timothy (Colleen) Larkoski of Diamond Lake, WA; Ellen (Charley) Wirtz of Tualatin, OR; Mark (Sandy) Larkoski of Austin, MN; seven grandchildren, Andrew James, Thomas Scott, John, Peter, Joseph, Lauren, and Luke; three brothers, Robert, James, and Donald McDonald.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Ellen McDonald; brothers, Arthur and Charles McDonald; sister, Patricia Patterson; and her husband, Allan.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11am on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Fr. James Steffes officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

April 12, 1927 -- June 25, 2019 (age 92)

John Dean Bernard Olson, age 92 of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at Mayo Clinic Health System Austin, Minnesota.

John Dean was born April 12, 1927, to John Alfred and Helma (Siblerud) Olson of Hartland, Minnesota. He graduated from Freeborn High School in 1945 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in April of 1945. He was discharged with an honorable discharge in August of 1946. On June 9, 1951, he married Jacqueline Ann Oliver of Waseca, Minnesota. He was employed as a finis h carpenter with Blowers Construction, Waterville, Minnesota.

In 1962, he moved to Blooming Prairie and was employed by Lysne Construction Company until his retirement in 1989. After retirement, he worked summers at the Blooming Prairie Country Club. John Dean was a member of the Blooming Prairie Planning and Zoning, as well as Legion Post 52 and St. Columbanus Catholic Church where he served on the parish council and was an active member of the KC’s. He enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and visiting with family and friends. His greatest joy was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John Dean is survived by his wife Jacqueline Olson of Blooming Prairie, MN; three children, Christine (Rick) Klemmensen, Jon (Gretchen) Olson, and Jan Anderson, all of Blooming Prairie; grandchildren, Tricia (Karl) Steckelberg, Jill (Nathan) Lindeman, Jay (Jamie) Klemmensen, Chad (Tamora) Klemmensen, Ariana (Nathan) Finholdt, Aric Olson, Ryan (Mariah) Foudray, Jennifer (Ryan) Born, Mark (Lisa) Anderson, Christopher (Rena) Anderson, Aaron (Angela) Anderson; great-grandchildren, Alexis and Grady Steckelberg, Cole and Isabel Lindeman, Andi, Bergen and Bailee Klemmensen, Trig and Nala Klemmensen, Kaden, Karsen and Libbie Finholdt, Miles, Cedric and Carmella Foudray, Emma and Blake Born, Abigael, Ava and Evan Anderson, Lydia Behringer-Vien, Landon and Everly Anderson; two sisters, Audrene Smith of New Richland, MN, Audrey Bethke of Pinckney, MI; two sisters-in-law, Irene Oliver of Waseca, MN, Tommie Sotebeer of Windom, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, two brothers and one son-in-law, David Anderson.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 1, 2019, at St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota with Father Thomas Niehaus officiating. Visitation will be held from 8:00-10:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in St. Columbanus Catholic Cemetery in Blooming Prairie, with military honors by the Blooming Prairie Honor Guard. Memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein Funeral Home in Blooming Prairie is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

Shirley Mary (Thomas) Adams 1928-2019

March 30, 1928 - June 29, 2019

Shirley M. Adams passed away peacefully on June 29, 2019, at the age of 91 at the Cedars of Austin where she resided for the last three years.

Shirley was born to F. Emmet and Edna (Crilly) Thomas on March 30, 1928, in Austin, Minnesota. A lifelong resident of Austin, she attended Columbus grade school and St. Augustine High School graduating in 1946. She worked for F.I. Crane Lumber Co. for a few years before she married LaVerne P. Adams on December 27, 1948 at St. Augustine Church. They went on to raise a family in Austin until LaVerne’s untimely death in 1970.

Shirley was a member of Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She enjoyed gardening, camping and road trips with her children and later, bus tours and trips to Europe with cousins and friends. Most of all she loved spending time with her family.

Shirley is survived by her children, Donald (Mona) Adams of Minnetonka, MN, Diane Aaby of Bixby, MN, Debbie (Keith) Snyder of Austin, MN, Darlene Edge of Austin, MN, Donna (Doug) Loverink of Albert Lea, MN, David (Debbie) Adams of Austin, MN, Denise (Bob) Heimerman of Golden Valley, MN, Danette (Jon) Nemitz of Austin, MN; twenty-four grandchildren; fifty-one great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Donna Thomas of Austin, MN.

She is preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne Adams; parents, F. Emmet and Edna Thomas; parents-in-law, J.W. and Magdalena Adams; brother, Robert Thomas; son-in-law, Ronald Aaby.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 am on Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper officiating. There will be a 5pm CCW rosary on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 5-7 pm. The family will also greet friends at a dinner following the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

March 23, 1941 - June 27, 2019 (age 78)

Floyd Vernon Bergstad, Jr., age 78 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2019 at Good Samaritan Society – Comforcare in Austin.

Floyd was born on March 23, 1942 in Drake, North Dakota, to Floyd Sr. and Lenore (Flaten) Berstad.

Services for Floyd will be held at a later date. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home, 17 JUL 2019

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

May 18, 1956 - June 25, 2019

Keith E. Downey, 63 of Austin, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, June 25, 2019.

Keith Elmer Downey was born May 18, 1956 to Thomas D. (Mike) and Evelyn J. (Kolb) Downey in Austin, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin.

Keith attended Parochial and Public Schools in Austin, graduating from Pacelli High School in 1974. He furthered his education gradually and graduated from Austin Community College in 1986 with an Associate in Arts degree. He then went on to Winona State University completing his degree in social work in 1990. On June 14, 1975 he married Eunice L. Koepsell at Grace Lutheran Church. Keith and Eunice were not blessed with their own children, so in 1981, they became foster parents through Woodvale Family Services and later Mower County DHS.

Over a period of 25 years, they cared for Jason who was the first foster child taken in by Keith and Eunice. Jason remained with Keith following Eunice’s death for seven years. For approximately seven years, a second foster child was taken in, Matthew, who eventually went to a group home. Eunice preceded Keith in death in 2006 after 31 years of marriage. On August 30, 2014, Keith married Victor Rubino.

During his youth, Keith and his family were members of St. Edward and St. Augustine Catholic parishes. In the early 70’s, Keith joined the youth group at Queen of Angels parish. He remained a member of Queens until 1982. In 1977, Keith started a special education religion class at Queens. The class grew and continued over a four year period of time. Through this class, 11 individuals with special needs received their first communion and were confirmed.

Keith was employed through the years by a number of human service facilities. He started in 1975 at Oak Grove DAC, and then in 1979, he went to work for Woodvale Homes. He was later employed by Rathjen House in Albert Lea. Following his graduation from Winona State University, he was employed by Alpha Enterprises (which merged with Cedar Valley Services in 1993), and worked for Cedar Valley Services as a Vocational Counselor until December 2015.

In 1985, Keith and Eunice joined St. OIaf Lutheran Church. Keith was active in the church, teaching Sunday school and confirmation. He also served as a Stephen Minister, Social Concerns Chairman, and Board of Deacons. During his time on the Board of Deacons and Social Concerns committee, he was instrumental in organizing a workshop entitled “Being a Caregiver to Individuals with AIDS”.

In 2010, Keith joined Our Savior’s Lutheran Church where he served on the Board of Trustees and Church Council from 2013-2016.

Keith was active with the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) for approximately 20 years. He served as president and on the Board of Directors. He received the Volunteer of the Year award on the local and state level for his work in 1984. He also volunteered for the Victims Crisis Center in Mower County receiving the Volunteer of the Year award for the years of 1982-1983. As a result of the workshop on AIDS that Keith organized, the organization “Rural AIDS Action Network” (RAAN) was developed. The organization was in existence of approximately four years. During the years RAAN existed, there was a major fundraising event, World AIDS Day observances were held at participating churches (December1) for several years and there was support given to seven families in the Mower County area prior to and following the death of their loved ones due to AIDS. Keith was a professional member of the Ecumenical Order of Franciscans since 2015.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Eunice; his parents, T.D. (Mike) and Evelyn Downey; step-mother, Margaret; nephew, Jeffrey Soiney and niece, Luann Allen.

Keith is survived by his spouse, Victor Rubino, brothers: Kenny Downey, New Richmond, WI and Kim (Sue) Downey, Austin, MN; sister-in-law and brother-in-law: Luella and Robert Soiney, Austin, MN; nephews: Jesse Downey, White Bear Lake, MN, Casey Downey, Minneapolis, MN, Nathan Downey, Austin, MN, Nicholas (Leanne) Downey, Austin, MN and their daughter Stella; nieces: Amy Downey, Wyoming, MN and Michelle Ahles, Austin, MN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2nd at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church with the Reverend Dr. Joy K. Bussert officiating. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be at Clasen-Jordan Mortuary on Monday, July 1st from 5-7 p.m. and will continue on Tuesday morning for one hour prior to services at the church. Memorials are preferred to Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Austin.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

November 9, 1924 - June 28, 2019 (age 94)

Joan M. Coffman, age 94 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully Friday morning, June 28, 2019 at her home.

Joan was born November 9, 1924 in Dodge County, Minnesota to John and Mathilda (Dahl) Capretz. She graduated from Mantorville High School and was a lifelong Southern Minnesota resident. On June 12, 1945 Joan was united in marriage to Afton ‘Pat’ Coffman in Kasson, Minnesota. To this union, two children were born, Cheryl and Greg. In 1961, Joan started working as a clerk at Knauers Food Market in Austin, Minnesota. Joan and her husband Pat both retired in 1981. Upon retirement, the couple traveled all over the United States and loved to winter in South Padre Island, TX.

Joan was a member of the Eastern Star. She was proud of the fact that she was raised during the Great Depression and has shared many inspiring stories.

Survivors include her two children; daughter, Cheryl (Phillip) Dowd of Austin, Minnesota and son, Greg (Helen) Coffman of Wabasha, Minnesota; four grandchildren, Jeff Dowd, John Dowd, Malinda (Chris) Wise, and Benjamin (Maria) Coffman; six great grandchildren, Joseph, Andrew, Elliot Wise, Rose, Henry, and Korra Coffman. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mathilda Capretz; husband, Pat Coffman in 1995; and all of her 14 siblings. Joan will also be missed by all who knew her.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice. Services are pending with Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

September 04, 1925 - June 29, 2019

In loving memory of Aniceta Lillian (Durben) Overocker.

Ceta Overocker, 93, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away at her home, surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, June 29, 2019.

Ceta is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Kenneth; five children, Connie (Roger) Bass, Minneapolis, Patricia Buck, Minneapolis, Randy (Luan) Overocker, Austin, LuAnn Heald, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Diane (Peter) King, Greensboro, North Carolina; five grandchildren: Tom (Justine) Bass, Lauren (Chris) Moldan, Kate (Sam) Moore, Sarah Srsen, Paul (Erin) Overocker; seven great-grandchildren: Brody, Olivia, Carson, Cooper, Kale, Kade and Tayylor; sister: Eileen Koenigs, Adams, Minnesota; nieces and nephews.

Ceta was born September 4, 1925 in Meyer, Iowa to Arthur and Louise (Weber) Durben. She approached all things in life with a kind and gentle spirit. She and Kenny danced the years away well into their eighties. She was most happy working in her flower garden where everything flourished under her loving touch. Martha Stewart didn’t have anything on her.

She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Stan, Ambrose, Alverna and Lester.

Arrangements are pending.

SOURCE: Clasen-Jordan Funeral Home, 7/1/19

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

January 2, 1956 -- June 26, 2019 (age 63)

Harold Theodore Cohenour II, age 63 of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at Edenbrook of Rochester in Rochester, Minnesota.

Harold was born January 2, 1956, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Harold and Ruth (Bain) Cohenour. He grew up and attended school in St. Paul. On September 25, 1975, he married Susan Maxson in St. Paul. They later divorced in the summer of 1990. Harold was a real jokester and loved to joke with the nurses at the nursing home. He enjoyed watching tv, smoking cigarettes, hunting, and loved riding his motorcycle. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his children, Pennie Kubiszewski of St. Paul, MN, Ted (Danela Higgins) Cohenour of Austin, MN, Harold III (Bridget) Cohenour; seven grandchildren, Justin, Jacob, Cody, Alex, Joanna, Anthony, and Cynder; six great grandchildren, Nathaniel, Miles, Mya, Mason, Mazikeen, and Malaney; siblings, Mae (Donny) Heimer of Brownsdale, MN, Richard Cohenour of Brownsdale, MN, Shirley Maier of Brownsdale, MN, Anna (Bill) Hicks of Austin, MN, Robert (Angela) Cohenour of Brownsdale, MN, Tina Kirk of Austin, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold I and Ruth Cohenour.

A Celebration of Life potluck picnic will be held from 12:00(Noon)-5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 21, 2019 at the Bandshell Community Park in Austin in the Veterans Pavilion. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

April 10, 1929 -- July 1, 2019 (age 90)

Herman Hugo Frank, age 90 of Dexter, Minnesota, passed away peacefully Monday, July 1, 2019 at the Waters-Marsh Memory Care in Rochester, Minnesota.

Herman was born April 10, 1929, in Elk Grove, Illinois, to Herman and Clara (Dahm) Frank. He grew up in the West Chicago area and worked on the family farm until age 24. Herman served his country in the United States Army. He married Helen Margery Plummer on February 10, 1954, in Aurora, Illinois, while basic training. After his honorable discharge in May of 1955, Herman farmed alongside his brother Dave in Marengo, Illinois until 1974 when he and his family moved to Dexter, Minnesota, where he continued to farm.

He was a member of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin. Herman was self-taught in a lot of areas, including construction and mechanics. He enjoyed traveling to visit relatives. Herman was well loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his children, Ed (Cynthia) Frank of Dexter, MN, Eileen (J. Watson) Anderson of Aberdeen, SD, Ted (Kim) Frank of Dexter, MN; 11 grandchildren, Tim (Sandra) Frank, TJ (Nicole) Anderson, Wade (Ashley) Anderson, Will (Jackie) Anderson, Anne (Zach) Battin, Gretchen (Paul) Eickhoff, Tom (Kelsey) Frank, Rachel (Dallas) Voigt, Molly (Dustin) Voigt, Caleb (Lexy Smith) Frank, and Hannah (Dave) Blocki; 25 great-grandchildren with 3 on the way; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Clara Frank; wife, Helen Margery Frank in 2017; infant son, Samuel at birth; 6 sisters and 2 brothers.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2019, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Austin. Visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Interment will be in Dexter Cemetery with military honors by the American Legion Post 91 and V.F.W. Post 1216. Memorials can be directed to Lutheran Hour Ministry or recipient of donor’s choice. The family would like to thank the Waters Care staff, and Primrose staff in Austin for the wonderful care they gave to Herman. Services are pending with Worlein Funeral Home of Austin.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

August 4, 1936 - July 1, 2019

Rita Mae (Fisher) Kubas

Rita Kubas, 82, died July 1, 2019 at The Cedars in Austin, Minnesota.

Rita was born August 4, 1936, to Alex and Mildred (Kaisershot) Fisher in Dickinson, North Dakota. She graduated from South Heart High School in 1954. On February 10, 1958 Rita married William (Bill) Kubas at St. Mary’s Church in South Heart.

Rita completed her post high school education at the School of Nursing in Miles City, Montana and started her career in nursing in Enderlin and Lisbon, North Dakota. While raising her family Rita returned to school and earned the advanced-practice nursing degree of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). She then worked many years as a CRNA in Bismarck, ND, St. Augustine, FL and finally in Whitehall, WI until her retirement in 2001.

Rita had the gift of hospitality and making people feel welcome in her home. She had a zest for life and learning and enjoyed many hobbies including travel, reading and gardening. Most of all she enjoyed music and spending time with her spouse, children and grandchildren.

Rita is survived by her five children: Beth (David) Jennings, Hillsboro, OR; Jeff (Stephanie) Kubas, Baxter, MN; Tom (Devona) Kubas, Wichita, KS; Carl (Tina) Kubas, Chippewa Falls, WI; and Steve (Tke) Kubas, Austin, MN, her 14 grandchildren, her 4 great-grandchildren, her sibling Donald Fisher and many nieces and nephews.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, her husband William (Bill) Kubas, and her siblings Raymond and Arvilla.

A graveside service will be held at the Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in New Hradec, ND at 11am on Friday, August 2nd. Memorial Gifts may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

SOURCE: Worlein Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

December 1, 1949 - July 3, 2019

Obituary for John Francis Goergen

John Francis Goergen, age 69, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly July 3, 2019 at his home.

John was born December 1, 1949, in Mason City, Iowa, to Bernard “Bennie” and Beatrice “Beattie” (Mullenbach) Goergen. He grew up in Johnsburg, Minnesota, and graduated from Adams High School, Adams, Minnesota.

John married Pat Frein in 1974 and they were later divorced. They had two children together. He began working for Coca-Cola in June of 1971 and retired after 40+ years with the company.

He retired as a sergeant from the Army National Guard in 1990. John was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Austin Moose Lodge, and National Wild Turkey Federation. He enjoyed collecting Coca-Cola and wildlife memorabilia. He also enjoyed going to sporting events, especially the ones his grandchildren were participating in.

Survivors include his son, Scott Goergen, of Rochester, MN; daughter, Jenny (Brody) Stapelmann, of Eau Claire, WI; three grandchildren, Mary Lynn, Aubrey, and Cade Goergen; two brothers, Ron (Darlene) Goergen of Elgin, MN and Les (Caroline) Goergen of Adams, MN. along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two infant sisters, Mary and Doris; one brother and sister-in-law, Dick and Charlotte Goergen; and a nephew, Keith Goergen.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Adams with Father Swaminatha Pothireddy officiating. Friends may call from 5-7 pm on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com .

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb

 

July 23, 1971 - July 3, 2019

Obituary for Lori Marie Donkers

Lori M. Donkers, age 47, of Maple Grove and formerly of Austin, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, July 3, 2019, at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11am on Monday, July 8, 2019 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Friends may call from 3-5 pm on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Lori was born to Ralph and Rosemary Donkers on July 23rd, 1971 in Austin, Minnesota. She spent the first 19 years of her life in Austin and enjoyed participating in Girl Scouts, playing volleyball, swimming at the local pool, performing with the school orchestra, and socializing with friends and family. She graduated from Austin High School in 1989 and earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Austin Community College in 1991. She lived in Albuquerque, NM for a year before moving on to Rochester, Mn in 1992 and then finally settling in the Twin Cities area in 2002.

She was a social person that made friends wherever she went. Her bubbly personality, sense of humor, beautiful smile, and deep caring of people drew others to her. These traits served her well in her chosen professions throughout the years. In high school she worked as a kitchen aide at Sacred Heart Hospice where the residents connected with her positive spirit. Her passion of caring for others was even more apparent when she began working with clients in a group home setting and continued in this type of work for over 15 years. She spent the past 12 years working as a Billing Specialist helping Medicare patients by guiding them through the challenging billing process.

Two of Lori's favorite things were traveling and music. Her love of music started at age five when she began playing the violin and continued throughout her life by attending the concerts of her favorite artists. If Prince, the Pixies, Bob Mould or her other favorites were in town, then she would be there. Her idea of a great vacation would combine travel with attending a concert. She had many great travel adventures to Las Vegas, New York, Denver, Albuquerque, and Chicago to attend concerts, visit family, or have some fun.

Through the years, Lori developed a great talent for cooking and party planning. You would often find her watching the Food Network and writing down new recipes. One of her most treasured belongings was the recipe box she inherited from her grandmother, Loretta, that contained many family recipes. Lori was the consummate party planner who never thought twice when anyone asked her to help with a special occasion. You never needed to worry about eating well when visiting Lori's home because she knew everyone's favorite dish and would whip up something delicious.

Lori loved her family and friends with great intensity and would do anything for them. She was especially excited to become an aunt and loved spending time with all of her nieces and nephews. Her beloved dog, Jerry, was her constant companion for many years before he passed a year ago. She loved him dearly and enjoyed being a dog mom. She will be missed by all the people that were touched by her kindness, laughter, and giving spirit.

Lori was preceded in death by her mother Rosemary Donkers, maternal grandparents: Virgil Tipton, Loretta (Tipton) and William Schwartz; and by paternal grandparents Martin and Angela Donkers.

She is survived by her father Ralph (Barb) Donkers of Austin, Minnesota; siblings: Kimberly Donkers of Rochester, MN, Mandy (Steven) Mensink of Austin, MN. Debra (Ed) King of Albert Lea, MN, Dawn (Roger) Anderson of Lino Lakes, MN, and David Markl of Las Vegas, Nevada; nieces and nephews: Brandon, Trevor, Sara, Matthew, HopeRose, Kelly, Desiree, Rayvik, Abigail, Austin, Skylee, Brayden, Dominic, and Morgen; two great-nephews and one great-niece; maternal Uncle Greg (David) Tipton of Scottsdale Arizona; and by many paternal aunts and uncles.

The family would like to recognize the close friends Lori had throughout her life, that touched her heart, and became a part of our extended family. You know who you are, how you made an impact on her life, and how she touched yours. We thank you for the love and support you always showed our dear sweet Lori.

SOURCE: Mayer Funeral Home

©2019 MNGenWeb