Obituaries 2013
December 2013
Lorraine Anastasia O’Brien, age 73
Richmond
April 23, 1940 – December 31, 2013
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 6, 2014 at River of Life Assembly of God Church in Cold Spring, MN for Lorraine Anastasia O’Brien, age 73, who died Tuesday at St. Mary’s Hospital, Rochester, MN. Burial will be in the MN State Veterans Cemetery, Little Falls, MN.
Visitation with family and friends will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Visitation will continue from 9:00– 10:00 a.m. Monday morning at the funeral home.
Lorraine was born in Eden Valley to Polycarp and Clara (Weber) Arnold. She married Clarence O’Brien on December 27, 1958 in Assumption Church in Eden Valley. Lorraine was a homemaker and loved spending time with her family. She also enjoyed music, teaching bible studies, fishing, and playing cards.
Survivors include her husband, Clarence; children, Helen (Paul) Berger, Janet (Bob) Ehresmann, Wanda (Mike) Cassidy, James, and Glenn (Denise); siblings, Clara Scheierl, Melvin (Lou) Arnold, Donna (Gene) Schlangen, Polycarp (Modesta) Arnold; sisters-in-law, Rita Arnold, Deb Arnold, Margaret Hurd, Virginia O’Brien; 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, David Arnold, Louis Arnold, Mary Ann (Bill) Houle, Frank Arnold; brothers and sisters-in-law, Cele (Ben) Dold, Joe O’Brien , Jim (Myrtle) O’Brien, Lawrence (Doris) O’Brien, Dorthy (Tim) Miller, Frances O’Brien, and son-in-law, Duane Seelye.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Ebert Arthur Konz, age 87
Pearl Lake
September 3, 1926 – December 29, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 3, 2014 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Marty (Pearl Lake), MN for Ebert A. Konz, age 87, who died peacefully at Hilltop Care Center, Watkins, MN surrounded by his loving family. Fr. Ralph Zimmerman will officiate. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Friends may call on Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.
Ebert was born in Kimball, MN to Anthony and Anna (Nelson) Konz. He served in the U.S. Navy including his time as gunner aboard the USS Brownson DD868 during WWII. Ebert married Ethel (Beaver) Konz on May 5, 1949 in Holy Cross Church in Marty. They farmed and raised their family in this community. Ebert also was employed by Cold Spring Granite Company for 28 years. Ebert joyfully participated in the Central Minnesota TEC and REC programs along with many of his family members. He enjoyed many hours gardening, bowling, jigsaw puzzles, making rag rugs, and cutting wood.
Survivors include his children, Patty Konz of St. Joseph, Charlie (Bev) Konz, Dave (Sue) Konz and Vivian (Randy) Krueger of Cold Spring, Joe (Lori) Konz of Babbitt, Paul Konz (Julia) of St. Cloud, Donna Hoeschen (fiancé Larry) of St. Cloud, Jeanette (Russ) Thompson of Little Falls, Laurie Konz of Bloomington and Ted (Mary) Konz of Ham Lake; 18 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings are Magnus (Marge) Konz, Freida (Arsene) Provo, Edith (Merv) Palmer, Florence (Norman) Severson and Dorothy (Andy) Maus; sister-in-law, Fran Sommo.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel (March 3, 2011); 2 granddaughters, Jenny Hollermann and Nadine Konz; siblings, Mildred Wicker, Phillip (Lorraine), Elwin (Lorraine), Arnold (Margaret), Vincent (Mildred) and brothers-in-law, Jim Grams, John Langer and Pete Sommo.
The family would especially like to thank the staff at Hilltop Care Center for the exceptional care Ebert and Ethel received as residents there for several years. Also, they wish to thank Rice Hospice staff and volunteers for their services and compassion extended to Ebert and his family prior to his death.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Harold H. Christen, age 84
Farming Township
November 11, 1929 – December 28, 2013
Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 4, 2014 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Albany, MN for Harold H. Christen, age 84, who died Saturday at his home. Inurnment will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.
Gathering of Friends and Relatives will be from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. Saturday morning at the church.
Harold was born in Farming Township to Jacob and Ida (Radkte) Christen. He served in the United States Army in Panama during WWII. He enjoyed working on the farm, working at Franklin and cutting wood. Harold was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Survivors include his sisters, Helen Lemke and Eleanor Lemke, and 15 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers-in-law, Norman and Ervin Lemke.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Yvonne Notsch, age 70
St. Joseph (Jacobs Prairie)
November 13, 1943 – December 21, 2013
Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 27, 2013, at St. James Catholic Church in Jacobs Prairie, MN, for Yvonne Notsch, age 70, who died Saturday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Thursday at St. James Catholic Church in Jacobs Prairie. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – until time of service Friday morning at the church. Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Yvonne was born in St. Cloud, MN, to Andrew and Ludvina (Boeckmann) Wagner. She graduated from Kimball High School and later attended St. Benedict’s College. Yvonne then taught at Sauk Rapids High School. While she lived her entire life in Minnesota, she traveled extensively throughout the United States with her husband Loren, who was an over-the-road trucker. A lover of reading, puzzles, Scrabble, and card games, Yvonne also loved to dance to old-time music and being in the outdoors, whether that was working on the farm or watching the cardinals and other birds in the backyard. She was an avid sports fan, especially local high schools and colleges. Yvonne was a member of St. James Parish.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years; daughter Lorna; sisters Evelyn Notsch, Eileen Kunkel, Beatrice Kunkel, Joyce Schmitz, and their spouses; brothers James Wagner and his spouse and Father Donald Wagner; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Kenneth, and her sister Theresa Schneider.
The family would like to extend its gratitude for the kindness and consideration of the Coborn Cancer Center, the Assumption Community, St. Cloud Hospital, and St. Cloud Hospice. In lieu of flowers, masses or memorial donations are requested.
Patricia Ann Stevenson, age 70
Cold Spring
August 22, 1943 – December 12, 2013
A memorial service for Patricia Ann Stevenson, age 70 of Cold Spring will be 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Friends and relatives may gather one hour prior to the service.
Patricia was born on August 22, 1943 in Graceville, MN to Herman D. and Bertha (Quam) VanZomeren. After graduation from Herman High School, Patricia went on to school and attended the University of Minnesota at Morris. She met Roger C. Stevenson in 1962. They were married on December 16, 1967 and together they raised three children first in Roseville, MN and then later moving to a place out in the country seven miles from Cold Spring, MN.
Survivors include her husband, Roger; children, Daniel (Janine), David (Karey), Eric; sister; Roberta (Willis) Volker; grandchildren, Jadine, Lachlan, Conall, Mackenna, Josalynne, Hannah, Nathaniel, Annika; great-grandchildren, Isaac and Darian.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Richard VanZomeren and Dorothy Christians.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Roberta “Bobbie” Dietrich, age 84
Cold Spring
November 19, 1929 – December 12, 2013
Roberta J “Bobbie” Dietrich also known as “the back-scratching grandma”, passed away peacefully on December 12th, in her room at Assumption Home in Cold Spring, MN while surrounded by family.
Bobbie was born on November 19, 1929 to Herbert and Florence Cochrane. She grew up in Aberdeen, SD where she graduated from Aberdeen Central HS in 1947 and attended Northern State University. There she met a rough & tumble rodeo cowboy named Martin Dietrich who swept her off her two left feet and they married in 1955. Bobbie was a selfless, loving, fun-loving wife, mother of two, grandmother of six, and foster parent of five. She also pinch-hit as a stand-in mother to children of all ages everywhere she called home.
Bobbie was employed by Northern States Power in Aberdeen, SD, was secretary to the mayor of Aberdeen, and was a secretary at 1st National Bank in Groton, SD.
Bobbie was a member of the Church of Christ, Scientist. She gave to the community by volunteering as a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader, and as an emergency medical technician. She volunteered at the library and the elementary school. She was an adult literacy tutor. She sat on the women’s golf committee, was involved with the Credit Women’s Breakfast Club and the Greenfield Business Women. She enjoyed many activities including bridge, golf, bowling, and treasure collecting.
Bobbie is survived by her husband Martin Dietrich, daughter TyLynn Theis and her husband Steve Theis, son Doug Dietrich, grandchildren Adam Theis and his wife Liz Theis, Matt Theis, Danna Theis, Becky Dietrich and her husband Joe Fine, John Dietrich, Jake Dietrich, siblings Joan Caven, Georgia Anderson, Herb Cochrane, & Jackie Reed, foster sons Kevin Langager & Jake Rantanen, and foster daughters Nancy Daniels, Doris Johnson, & Tammy Jackels.
Bobbie was preceded in death by parents Herbert & Francis Cochrane, siblings Fran Adair, Paula Gallipo, and Pat Borchers.
Bobbie’s family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the loving care given by the staff of the Assumption Home over the last years of her life and for the gentle kindness shown by Heartland Hospice to Bobbie and her family in her final moments.
Bobbie’s family invites everyone touched by this beautiful woman to join them in celebrating her life at a visitation at the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring on Sunday, December 15th from 4-7 p.m. and on Monday from 9-10:15 a.m. A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, friends & family are requested to send donations to either the American Diabetes Association or the Dakota Boy’s and Girl’s Ranch.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Herman Schaefer, age 80
St. Martin
April 15, 1933 – December 4, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 7, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Herman Schaefer, age 80, who died Wednesday at home. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday at the St Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with St. Joseph Society, St. Martin Catholic United Financial and the Lions Club. Visitation will continue from 12:00 – 1:45 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the St. Martin Parish Hall. Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Herman was born to Peter and Mary (Mohs) Schaefer. He married Alice Hemmesch on August 27, 1957 in St. Margaret Church, Lake Henry. Herman farmed all his life until his retirement. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, bowling, softball, playing cards, and spending time with his grandchildren. Herman was a member of the St. Martin Parish which he served as Parish Trustee, Reader, Usher, Mass Server and in the Funeral Choir. He also played trumpet and drums in the St. Martin Band, played the accordion for enjoyment, was a treasurer for the St. Martin Lions and sold Vigortone and Ration Maker Feed and went on a lot of trips, was on the Board of Albany Mutual Insurance, Pork Producers, AMPI and Farming School Board
Survivors include his wife, Alice; children, Jerry (Deb) Schaefer of St. Martin, Allen Schaefer (Patty Meyer) of St. Martin, Barb (Kerry) Mergen of Farming, Joan (Duane) Schmitt of St. Martin, Donna (John) Hoeper of Alexandria, Dean Schaefer (Bonnie Holthaus) of St. Martin, Steve (Karen) Schaefer of St. Martin; brother, Math Schaefer; sisters, Margaret Kinzer, Mary Ann Lauer; sisters-in-law, Verena Schaefer, Mary Jane Schaefer; 17 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters, Henry (Ida) Schaefer, Frank Schaefer, Clara (Leo) Burg, Norbert (Leona) Schaefer, Susan (Joe) Kuhl, Nick (Theresa) Schaefer, Gertrude (Joe) Hellmann, Theresa Schaefer, Ben Schaefer; brothers-in-law, Ervin Kinzer and Romuald Lauer.
A special thank you to the Albany Area Home Health & Hospice for the care they gave Herman.
November 2013
Walburga “Wallie” Lieser, age 80
Paynesville
June 6, 1933 – November 25, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 29, 2013 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville, MN for Walburga “Wallie” Lieser, age 80, who died Monday at the Paynesville Hospital. Entombment will be in the St. Louis Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. at the church. Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, MN.
Wallie was born in St. Martin to Joseph and Elizabeth (Schaefer) Doll. She married Werner Lieser on April 27, 1954 in St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. Wallie enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and crafts. She was a member of St. Louis Parish, St. Margaret’s Rosary Society, and St. Louis and St. Margaret’s Christian Women.
Survivors include her children, Gary (Pam) Lieser and Theresa (Randy) Peterson; grandchildren, Brandon and Amanda Lieser; sister, Rita (Al) Feldewerd, and brother, Virgil (Florene) Doll.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Werner; parents; sisters, Marcella Laumeyer, Genevieve Loehr, Marie Faber, and Maryann Fuchs; brothers, Henry, Urban, Sylvester, Martin, Anthony, Joseph Jr., and infant brother Hilary Doll.
Marcella “Marssy” Cheeley, age 90
Cold Spring
May 8, 1923 – November 21, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 25, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Marcella “Marssy” Cheeley, age 90, who died tragically in a car accident on November 21, 2013. Entombment will be in the family mausoleum in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, November 24th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., Monday morning at the funeral home.
Marssy was born on May 8, 1923 in Benton County to Anthony and Helen (Strzywski) Wojciechowski. She graduated from Foley High School in 1940, and then moved to Detroit, Michigan. She was united in marriage to Patrick Cheeley, Jr. in Detroit on June 19, 1943. They eventually moved to Cold Spring, MN in 1953, where they began to raise a family. Marssy was a dedicated employee of Fingerhut from 1963-1973, and then St. John’s University from 1974 until her retirement in 1985, at the age of 62. She was a former member of the Resurrection Choir of St. Boniface, an honorary member of Christian Mothers, a 50-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary, a charter member of the Rocori Senior Center, where she served on the Executive Board for six years. She volunteered for many functions in the Cold Spring area.
Marssy was a spirited and independent woman until the day of her death. She raised four children, was a proud and supportive wife of a police officer, and later, reveled in the love and laughter of her grandchildren, all of whom she knew well and kept close contact with, even into their adulthood. She was a conversationalist, a record-keeper, and a thinker, moving quickly beyond small talk to memorable conversations of meaning and substance. Marssy was a dedicated Vikings fan, a proud “Pollock,” and a champion cribbage player. She was an avid fisherman for much of her life, and a frequent spectator of local sports. More than anything, she was a much loved mother and grandmother.
She is survived by daughters Judy (Allen) Schefers of Wayzata, MN and Bonnie Kaye (Royce) Nies of Sartell, MN; sons Pete (Joyce) Cheeley of St. Cloud, MN and Scott (Susan) Cheeley of Cold Spring, MN; siblings Wanda Murray, Mary “Nene” Johanson, and Arnold Wojciechowski, all of Foley, MN; nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
James J. “Jim” Dingmann, age 84
Cold Spring, formerly of Waite Park
June 22, 1929 ~ November 13, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 18, 2013 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud for James J. “Jim” Dingmann, age 84, of St. Cloud, who passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2013, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Reverend Thomas Knoblach will officiate. Entombment with military honors will take place at Assumption Cemetery Mausoleum in St. Cloud.
Family and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud and after 9:30 a.m. on Monday at the Church. Parish prayers will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.
Jim was born on June 22, 1929 in Farming, Minnesota to Norbert and Josephine (Holthaus) Dingmann. He served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. Jim married Louise Schmitz on June 10, 1954 at St. James Catholic Church in Jacobs Prairie. He worked as a Semi Driver for Maiers Transfer the majority of his life. Jim was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, the St. Cloud V.F.W. Granite City Post #428, and Waite Park American Legion Silver Star Post #428.
Jim enjoyed fishing, bowling, ice skating and dancing with Louise. He especially loved all the time spent with his family.
He is survived by his children, Carol (Gerry) Johannes of Holdingford, Deb (Joe) Walz of Eagan, Linda (Leon) Traeger of Cold Spring, Michelle Kusy of St. Cloud, Wayne (Chris) of St. Cloud; grandchildren, Nathan, Eric, Todd, Chad, Jenna, Lindsay, and Adam; great-grandchildren, Kendra, Trevor, Brynn, and Lily; brother and sister, Richard (Marie) Dingmann of Rockville, Marie (Gervase) Erkens of Rockville; sister-in-laws, Dorothy and Tina.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Louise on July 7, 2013; brothers, Arnold, Cletus, Sylvester; infant sister, Bernadine; sister-in-law, Jeanette.
A Special Thank You to the staff at the St. Cloud Hospital for the care given to Jim.
Joleen (Lauer) Krueger, age 38
St. Louis Park (formerly of Cold Spring)
May 29, 1975 – November 11, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 9:30 a.m., Saturday, November 16, 2013 at St. John’s Abbey/University Church for Joleen Krueger, age 38 who died peacefully at Abbott Northwestern Hospital surrounded by her family after her courageous battle with colon cancer. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Parish Cemetery.
There will be a visitation from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 15th at St. John the Baptist Parish Center on Fruit Farm Road in Collegeville. Visitation will continue Saturday morning for one hour prior to services in the Baptistry of the Abbey Church.
Joleen was born in Albany to Chuck and Jan (Frank) Lauer. She married Dean Krueger on April 24, 2004 in St. John’s Abbey Church, Collegeville. Joleen was very active in the Colon Cancer Coalition and Get Your Rear in Gear Organization to promote Colon Cancer Awareness. She enjoyed family gatherings at the “Lauer Lodge”, St. John’s Football, Minnesota Twins, and was an avid runner. She loved being with “her boys” Dean and Logan.
Survivors include her husband, Dean; son, Logan; parents; sisters, Christy (Jim) Sexton, Katie (Cory) Eggert; grandmother, Marcella Frank and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Vern Frank, and Robert and Margaret Lauer.
Memorials preferred. Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Delrose “Del” Stewart, age 85
Cold Spring
July 4, 1928 – November 6, 2013
Funeral services will be 7:30 p.m. Sunday, November 10, 2013 at Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN for Delrose “Del” Stewart who died Wednesday at the St. Cloud Hospital surrounded by her family. There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 4:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Inurnment will be in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.
Del was born in Cold Spring to Ignatius and Mary (Lutgen) Theisen. She married Raymond Stewart on October 6, 1949 in St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Clearwater, MN. Del was a homemaker and in her younger years provided daycare for many children. She enjoyed wintering in Westlaco Texas, sewing doll clothes, and playing Bingo. Del especially loved being with her family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a member of Cold Spring American Legion Auxiliary.
Survivors include her children, Michael (Linda) of Cold Spring, Bob (Joyce) of Cold Spring, Jeff of Cold Spring, and Brenda (Jim) Dockendorf of Richmond; brothers, Vernon (Irma) Theisen, Ignatius Jr. (Sharon) Theisen; sisters, Coletta (Dave) Kolb, Mary Jane (Jerry) Sventek, and Dorothy Watzl; sister-in-law, Lois (John) Barron; 9 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray (2012); son, James; parents, and three sisters and one brother.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Raymond “Ray” Thelen, age 90
St. Martin
November 12, 1922 – November 6, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 11, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Raymond “Ray” Thelen, age 90. He died Wednesday at his home where he was born and lived his entire life. Burial will be in the St. Martin Parish Cemetery.
Gathering of family and friends will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Paynesville Knights of Columbus. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Monday morning at the funeral home.
Ray was born in St. Martin to Anton and Elizabeth (Holthaus) Thelen. He married Bernie Theis on July 24, 1965 in St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Farming. Ray farmed for his entire life and worked for the Stearns County Highway Dept. He was a member of St. Martin Parish, Paynesville Knights of Columbus, and a proud member of the St. Martin Band for over 50 years. Ray was known throughout the area for his skills as a well-witcher, his stories of the depression, his childhood memory of prohibition, and of course his alternative fishing methods.
Survivors include his wife, Bernie; children, Tim Thelen, Kim (Kevin) Orbeck and their children, Katherine, Jack and Samuel, Tony Thelen, Pete (Jill) Thelen and their children, Kylie, Ava & Shelby, Jason (Susan) Thelen and their children, Nathaniel and Sarah; sisters, Maddie (Arnold) Wehseler, Lidwina (Ben) Kaiser, and Gert Sievert.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Lorraine Ruprecht, Mary Moser-Hettwer, and Arnold “Slim”; brothers-in-law, Carl Ruprecht, Ervin Moser, John Hettwer, and Tom Sievert.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
William “Bill” Birk, age 88
Rockville
July 10, 1925 – November 5, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 8, 2013 at Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Rockville, MN for William “Bill” Birk, age 88, who died Tuesday at the Assumption Nursing Home in Cold Spring. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be at 7:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Catholic Order of Foresters. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., Friday morning at the funeral home.
Bill was born in Rockville to Peter and Margaret (Gossler) Birk. He married Alvina Thul on November 27, 1946 in St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring. Bill served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a foreman in many quarries for the Cold Spring Granite Company for forty plus years. He enjoyed hunting, gardening, fishing, dancing and playing cards. Bill loved his faith, family and friends. He is a retired member of the Rockville Fire Dept. and a member of Catholic Order of Foresters.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Alvina; children, Dave (Marilyn), Allan (Marcia), Diane (Jim) Browning, Karen (Mike) Hunstiger, and Michele Birk; son-in-law, Vance Porwoll; 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Porwoll; siblings, Sylvia, Theresa, Irma, Rita, Christine, Albert, Gerhart, John, and Joseph.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Viola A. Skrypek, age 85
Little Canada, formerly of Cold Spring
February 5, 1928 – November 3, 2013
Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 9, 2013 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cold Spring, MN for Viola Skrypek, age 85, who died Sunday at the Cerenity Care Center in White Bear Lake. Burial will be in the Gloria Dei Lutheran Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m. Saturday morning at the church. Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Viola was born in Cold Spring to Fred and Nelva (Schulz) Hippler.
Survivors include her daughter, Brenda Tubman; grandson, Adam Hochberg; granddaughter, Sarah Tubman, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Albert and Orville Bogard, Kenneth, Raymond, George, and Hank Hippler; sisters, Lillian Witter, Del Rose Staaf, Edna Nordstrom, and Alice Wendt.
October 2013
Lawrence A. Callen, age 90
St. Cloud
November 27, 1922 – October 26, 2013
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 1, 2013 at River of Life Assembly of God Church in Cold Spring, MN for Lawrence A. Callen, age 90, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Burial will be in the Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Visitation with family and friends will be at the church one hour prior to the services. Arrangements were entrusted with the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Lawrence A. Callen was born in St. Cloud, MN to Arthur and Anna (Madsen) Callen. He married Genevieve Hansen on October 2, 1956 in St. Cloud, MN. He served in the U.S. Army from January 23, 1942 to December 6, 1945. Lawrence was a janitorial engineer. He enjoyed playing the accordion, building things, studying the bible, and ministering in jails and nursing homes.
Survivors include his daughter, Connie Callen, and brother, Delmar Callen.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Genevieve; sisters, Lorna Stevenson and Violet Babst, and brother, Harry Callen.
Marcella “Mouse” Symalla, age 88
Cold Spring
December 16, 1924 – October 27, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 31, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Marcella M. Symalla, age 88, who died Sunday at Assumption Home. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 30th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Marcella “Mouse” was born in St. Cloud to Vincent and Veronica (Hemmelgarn) Witschen. She married Mathew Symalla on November 3, 1949 in Holy Angels Catholic Church in St. Cloud. Marcella was a loving wife and mother. She was a longtime employee of the ROCORI School District before she retired. She enjoyed baking, watching sports, playing cards, and spending time with her family, friends, and relatives. She was especially proud of the embroidered Christmas stockings she made for each of her kids.
Survivors include her children, Tom of Cold Spring, Barb of St. Paul, and Joan of St. Paul; brothers and sisters, Alvina “Vini” Sauer, Rose Mary “Rosie” Borgen, LuAnn Billig, and Annette “Netty” (Rick) Kahlhamer.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Mathew (2011); infant son, Joseph; brothers and sisters, Jerome, Richard, Eldon “Butch”, and Ionella “Nellie” Blaske.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Anthony “Tony” Mies, age 78
Watkins
August 29, 1935 ~ October 25, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial for Anthony “Tony” Mies, 78 of Watkins was held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, October 30, 2013 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Watkins. Tony passed away on Friday, October 25, 2013 at the Assumption Home in Cold Spring. Fr. John Brunner and Fr. Richard Gross officiated. Gift bearers were granddaughters, Abby and Regan Mies. Casket bearers were grandsons, Mike and Paul Ruegemer, Alex, Nicholas, Bradley, Sawyer, Alton and Anson Mies. Interment was in the St. Anthony Cemetery, Watkins.
Tony was born on August 29, 1935 in Watkins to Mike and Albina (Deutsch) Mies. He grew up in Watkins and graduated from St. Boniface High School in 1953. Tony served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and then attended St. John’s University. On June 7, 1958, Tony was united in marriage to Alvina Brinkman at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Farming. They resided in Watkins where Tony and Alvina owned and operated Mies Equipment until their retirement in 1997.
Tony was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Watkins and was active with the Catholic Order of Foresters. He was also a member of the Watkins Legion Post 453 and the Watkins Sportsmen’s Club. In his younger years, Tony was an avid snowmobiler. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, traveling, wintering in Arizona and spending time with his family and friends.
Tony is survived by his wife, Alvina Mies of Watkins, Children and their spouses, Vickie (Al) Ruegemer of Cold Spring, Karen (Tom) Stelmak of Belgrade, MT, Steve (Roberta) Mies of Cold Spring, Brian (Linda) Mies of Kimball, Jeff (Susan) Mies of Cold Spring; grandchildren, Mike and Paul (Becca) Ruegemer, Nicholas and Abby Mies, Alex, Bradley and Sawyer Mies, Regan, Alton and Anson Mies; great grandson, Ben Ruegemer and his sister, Mary Ellen McKibben of Tuscon, AZ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers and sisters, Lucille Kammeier, Evelyn Overlin, Peter Mies and Verlin Mies.
Marcella “Sally” Weber, age 79
Plymouth, formerly of Cold Spring
February 28, 1934 – October 23, 2013
Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 26, 2013 at Wayzata Evangelical Free Church in Plymouth, MN for Marcella “Sally” Weber, age 79, who died Wednesday. Burial will be in the Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud.
Relatives and friends may call from 8:30 – 10:45 a.m., Saturday, October 26th at Wayzata Evangelical Free Church, 705 County Rd 101 in Plymouth, MN.
Sally was born in Cold Spring, MN to Rochus and Agnes (Schaan) Eisenzimmer. She married Linus John Weber on January 26, 1954 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. Sally was a woman of great faith. She remained young at heart her whole life. Sally was a wonderful mother, loving aunt and great friend to many. Her most cherished role was “Nana” to her 22 grandchildren.
Survivors include her children, Mary (James) Kleinbaum of Minnetonka, John (Lori) Weber of Excelsior, Jean (Vince) Gentile of Chicago, Paul Weber of Plymouth, Barbie (Tim) Glader of Centerville, Ralph (Jovita) Weber of Roseville, David (Kelly) Weber of St. Cloud, Jennifer (Richard) Kline of Wayzata, and 22 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Linus John; grandson, John Linus Kleinbaum, and many beloved siblings.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Lorraine Thomes, age 91
Richmond
August 1, 1922 – October 18, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 21, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Lorraine Thomes, age 91, who died Friday at Assumption Home. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 20th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. There will be a rosary with Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women at 4:00 p.m. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Monday morning at the funeral home.
Lorraine was born in Albany, MN to John and Mary (Bueckers) Vornbrock. She married Gregory Casper Thomes on October 23, 1945 in St. Anthony Church in Padua, MN. Gregory passed away February 20, 2006. Lorraine worked at Animal Fair, Brinky’s, and the Cold Spring Bakery. She loved seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lorraine enjoyed gardening and canning, baking, and sharing all her baked goods. She is famous for her kuchen bread and it was enjoyed at every family gathering. Lorraine was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish and Christian Women.
Survivors include her children, Dennis (Lucy) Thomes of Cold Spring, Mary Ann (Donald) Dingmann of Richmond, Caroline (Ron) Hoagland of Cold Spring, Diane (Merle) Eisert of Richmond, Allan (Judy) Thomes of St. Cloud, Glen (Jan) Thomes of Mayer, Marlyne (Leon) Molitor of Cold Spring; 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gregory; brothers and sisters, Virgil Vornbrock, Marcie Warner, Francella Rouslange, Roman Vornbrock, Wilfred Vornbrock, and Winnefred Tuholsky; granddaughter, Rachelle Hoagland, and grandson, Rick Dingmann.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Florence A. Beumer, age 100
Cold Spring, formerly of Waite Park
August 14, 1913 – October 13, 2013
Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 18, 2013 at North Star Cemetery in St. Cloud for Florence Beumer, age 100, who died Sunday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring.
Florence was born in New Ulm to John and Julia (Rinkle) Stubblefeld. She married Herbert Beumer on November 15, 1937. Florence loved fishing and hunting all her life and her later years she enjoyed bowling.
Survivors include her children, Sharon Elliott, Joan (John) Wenner, and Dick Beumer; son-in-law, John Wendt; 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert (2000); daughter, Elaine Wendt (1991); siblings, Harold, Willis, Leonna, Ruth, LaVerne, and Julia.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Florence Gertrude Benson, age 73
Cold Spring, MN
September 22, 1940 – October 11, 2013
Graveside services for family and close friends will be Saturday, October 19, 2013 at the Oak Grove Cemetery near St. Francis, MN for Florence Benson, age 73, who died Friday at the Assumption Nursing Home in Cold Spring.
Florence was born in Milaca to Gus and Vivian (Rice) Benson.
Survivors include her sister, Nola “Kitty” Grant, brother, Bill (Lynn) Benson and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Dr. Harold Benson.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
James “Jim” Halverson, age 70
Richmond
September 16, 1943 – October 3, 2013
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 7, 2013 at River of Life Assembly of God Church in Cold Spring, MN for James “Jim” Halverson, age 70, who died Thursday at his home.
Visitation with family and friends will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Visitation will continue from 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Monday morning at the church.
Jim was born in Minneapolis, MN to Phillip and Fern (Pihl) Halverson. He served in the U.S. Army. Jim married Kristine Swanson on April 11, 1981 in Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cold Spring. He owned Aurora Wellness Center Salon & Spa with his wife Kristine, worked for Construction Supply and Pent Star. He was cofounder and board member of Soul Purpose. Jim was a prison minister and girls high school hockey coach. He was a member of River of Life Church where he was a board member. Jim was also the V.P. of R.A.I.N. He loved fishing, cars, and his golden retrievers.
Survivors include his wife, Kristine; mother-in-law, Darlene Swanson; sister-in-law, Marita Doran; brothers-in-law, Mark and Ben Swanson; nieces, Kelly and Vera; nephews, Matthew, Andrew, Armas, and Illya.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Aloys “Allie” Spoden, age 78
Cold Spring
December 1, 1934 – October 3, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, October 7, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Aloys “Allie” Spoden, age 78, who died Thursday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Inurnment will be private.
Relatives and friends may gather from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m., Monday morning in the St. Boniface Church Narthex.
Allie was born in Cold Spring to Joseph and Winifred (Fink) Spoden. He married Carol Menke on November 15, 1969 in St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring. Allie enjoyed working at the Cold Spring Granite Co. for 25 years, and retired in 1998. He loved yard work and gardening, his passion was watching and recording the daily weather. Allie loved his family and his dog Emmitt. He was a member of St. Boniface Parish.
Survivors include his loving wife, Carol; daughters, Amy (Craig) Twombly, Traci (Brian) Dockendorf; grandchildren, Owen, Sawyer, Maisy, Aidan, and Elsie; sister, Rose Pfannenstein; brothers, Mark (Jean), Joe, Harry (Marge), and Clarence (Joan) Spoden.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond and Arthur Spoden; sisters-in-law, Eileen, Muriel, and Bernice Spoden, and brother-in-law, Art Pfannenstein.
Memorials preferred to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
September 2013
Rose Mary Brinkman
, age 88
Cold Spring
March 30, 1925 – September 29, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 2, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Rose Mary Brinkman, age 88, who died Sunday at St. Benedict Center. Entombment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Mausoleum.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. The Richmond Catholic Order of Foresters will pray a rosary at 4:30 p.m. and parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Rose Mary was born in Richmond to Joseph and Rosena (Schmitt) Roettger. She graduated from St. Boniface High School and received a degree from St. Cloud Business College. She then worked as an office manger for her father Joseph at the Richmond Hatchery. She married Roman Brinkman on August 24, 1949 in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond. Rose Mary was a homemaker all her married life and loved interior decorating, flowers, golfing, bowling, playing bridge, shopping, and having lunch with the girls. Rose Mary especially enjoyed being with family and friends. She was a member of St. Boniface Parish and Richmond Catholic Order of Foresters.
Survivors include her husband, Romie; daughter, Jean Rogers and significant other Mike Connor; her brother, John and sister, Dolores Wenner.
She was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, Thomas; sisters, Dorothy Peschl, Alice Heinen; brothers, Ralph, Ray, Joe, and Richard Roettger.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Troy Jason Hesse, age 41
Cold Spring
September 24, 1972 – September 26, 2013
Funeral Services will be 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring for Troy Jason Hesse who died at his home on Thursday, September 26 after a courageous battle with cancer. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Saturday morning at the funeral home. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Troy was born September 24, 1972 in St. Cloud to Margaret “Peg” Hesse and Randall S. Pocklington. He is survived by his mother, Peg; grandmother, Lorraine Hesse; many uncles, aunts, cousins; and four very special dogs, Teddy, Summer, Angel and Scooter.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Herbert M. Hesse.
Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Ralph G. Rothstein, age 80
Richmond
February 9, 1933 – September 22, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 25, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Ralph G. Rothstein, age 80, who died Sunday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Ralph was born in Richmond, MN to Nicholas and Theresia (Braegelmann) Rothstein. He married Evelyn Gertken on April 14, 1959 in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Richmond, MN. Ralph worked for the Cold Spring Granite Company for many years. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren. Ralph enjoyed farming, fishing, hunting, and playing cards. He was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Evelyn; children, Ralph Jr. (JoAnne), Bonnie (Steve) Molitor, and Loren (Mary); grandchildren, Ryan, Justin, Jordan, Nathan, Neil, Emily, Pari (Raymond), Whitney, Austin, and Abbi; great-grandchildren, Colton and Lincoln; siblings, Marcellus, Clarence (Pauline), and Nicholas (Margie).
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Edmund, Leo, Gregor, Leander, Richard, Norbert, Paul, Alfred, Agedia Hemmesch, Agnes Rausch, Leona Hemmesch, and Lucille Rothstein.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Michael “Mike” Hammer
, age 81
Cold Spring
November 11, 1931 – September 19, 2013
Michael “Mike” Hammer, age 81, died Wednesday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Inurnment will be Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, MN.
Mike was born in Richmond, MN to Isidore and Sophia (Kolb) Hammer. He married Susan Stein on June 20, 1964 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. Mike served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 – 1954. He worked for Barbarossa Construction until retiring in 1992. Mike was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed spending winter months in Port Isabel, Texas. He was a member of Port Isabel, Texas American Legion Post 498.
Survivors include his loving wife, Sue; children, Barbara Hammer, Brenda (Doug) Torborg; 2 grandchildren, Derek and Harlie Torborg; his dog, Zoe; siblings, Harold (Jackie) Hammer, Pauline (Don) Hegedus.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Isidore.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Sylvester “Bill” Ficker, age 92
Cold Spring
October 15, 1920 – September 15, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Sylvester “Bill” Ficker, age 92, who died Sunday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 17th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Bill was born in Cold Spring to John and Margaret (Jacobs) Ficker. He married Rita Schleppenbach on April 26, 1947 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring, MN. Bill served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 -1945 as a Radioman. He was employed at the St. Cloud V.A. for over 30 years as a Recreational Therapist. Bill also worked as a Cold Spring Village Clerk. He was a member of the Cold Spring Legion, WWII Last Man’s Club, Friends of Education and St. Boniface Parish.
Survivors include his children, John (Julie), Gary (Liz), Deb (Damian) Hennen, Mark (Neecy), Shari (Bryan) Nierengarten, Randy (Jill), Barb (Jeff) Miller, Tom (Shannon); 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Rita; siblings, Marcellus (Lefty), Wally, Madeline, Ronald and Bea.
Memorials preferred to St. Boniface School and Rocori Dollars for Scholars.
Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, MN.
Alphonse “Al” Petermeier, age 85
Richmond
September 21, 1927 – September 8, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 12, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Alphonse “Al” Petermeier, age 85, who died Sunday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial with full military honors by Richmond American Legion Post 292 will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 11th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Al was born in Elrosa, MN to Ignatus and Caroline (Uhlenkamp) Petermeier. He served in the Air Force from December 12, 1949 until December 13, 1953. He married Evelyn Lensing on June 2, 1953. Together they raised seven “perfect” children. Evelyn died on April 14, 1987. Al married Lucille Hansgen on October 6, 1995. They enjoyed their retirement together until her death on March 15, 2007. Al was a truck driver and owned Petermeier Trucking. He enjoyed music, especially playing the guitar and singing in the church choir and Maennechor. Al also enjoyed gardening, woodworking, his tomatoes, and trips to the casino. He was a member of the American Legion for 58 years, Maennechor, and Sts. Peter & Paul Parish where he was an usher and member of the church choir.
Survivors include children, Jan (Tom) Phillips, Doug (Kris), Joan (Wayne) Lee, Ruth (Kevin) Rothstein, David, Gail (Mike) Gertken, Mark (Katie); grandchildren, Craig (Stacy) Phillips, Brian Lee, Amber Lee, Amanda Rothstein, Adam Rothstein, Krystal (Zeno) Petermeier, Danny Petermeier, Kayla (Drew) Axsom, Christopher (Kayla) Gertken, Nicholas Gertken, Jessica (Robbie) Massmann, Bryan Storebo, Sean Storebo; stepchildren, Cyndy (Ron) Willenbring, Mike Duret, Julie (Kevin) Buermann, Rob Hansgen; step-grandchildren, Chris Willenbring, Cari (Dean) Forster, Ryan (Anny) Buermann, Brianna Buermann, and Curtis Buermann, and 4 step-great-grandchildren; siblings, Erma (Elmer) Ketler, Roman (Tillie), and Edmond (Dorothy).
He was preceded in death by his wives, Evelyn and Lucille, and 3 infant children; daughter-in-law, Laurie; three siblings, Evelyn, Tony, and Florentine.
Memorials are preferred to Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church or School.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Mary Anne (Schreifels) Kaufman, age 73
Cold Spring
June 15, 1940 – September 8, 2013
Mary died peacefully at home surrounded by her family from complications of COPD. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring, MN. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery in Cold Spring. Mary’s grandsons will be pallbearers.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday (TODAY), September 10th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. St. Boniface Christian Women will pray a rosary at 4:00 p.m. Parish Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:45 Wednesday morning in the church narthex.
Mary Anne was born on June 15, 1940 at home, along with her twin brother Marvin, to Herbert T. and Frances A. (Peters) Schreifels in Waite Park, MN. In 1950 Mary, along with her parents and eight brothers and sisters moved to Cold Spring, MN. Mary received her education at the St. Boniface Catholic School system. She was an employee of Peters Food Market, Cold Spring and as a nursing assistant at St. Raphael’s Home in St. Cloud.
On July 26, 1958, Mary married the love of her life, Frank B. Kaufman at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring, MN. Of this union three children were born, Bruce, Bryan, and Brenda. Shortly after their marriage, Frank re-enlisted in the U.S. Navy and Mary and Frank spent the next 20 years in many seaports, states and countries seeing the world. One of the highlights of Mary’s many moves of navy life was, May 1968, when Frank was stationed in Rome, she was privileged along with her two sons, to have a Papal visit. On June 15, 1977 Frank retired from the Navy and they returned to Minnesota. Since 1987 they have lived in Cold Spring. While living in Cold Spring, Mary worked as a receptionist at Taylor Care, St. Cloud, retiring in 1994.
Mary was active in the following organizations: St. Boniface Christian Women, Parish Council and was a Eucharistic minister at St. Boniface Church. She was an active member of the Cold Spring Lions Club, where she held various club positions.
Mary enjoyed knitting, sewing, bowling, golfing, and cooking wonderful meals for her family and hosting many family events. She was an excellent card player and enjoyed going to casinos.
Mary is survived by her husband, Frank; son, Bruce (Amber) Kaufman, and their four children, Morgan, Jacob, Benjamin, and Ashley Kaufman of Minneapolis; son, Bryan (Debra) of Bellevue, NE, and their four children, Luke (Janelle), Justin (Caroline), Zachery (Lindsey), and Katie Kaufman; daughter, Brenda (Eric) Brown of St. Cloud, and their four children, Alyssa, Mitchell, Ethan, and Anthony Brown, and three great-grandchildren, Leif, Lucy, and Presley Kaufman.
Mary is also survived by her three sisters and two brothers, Janette (Linus) Dingmann of Cold Spring, twin brother, Marvin (Janet) Schreifels of Monument, CO, Bernie (Dr. Joseph) Moore of Colorado Springs, CO, Geri (Ron) Novotny of Sauk Rapids, and Nicholas (Mary) Schreifels of Colorado Springs, CO; sister-in-laws, Rosemary, Janette, and Donna Kaufman, and many nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, Julius, Joseph, Julian, Gerald, and Clarence.
Memorials are preferred.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Jean Bie (Fuecker), age 74
Newberg, Oregon
January 20th, 1939 ~ September 6th, 2013
Cold Spring native Jean Bie (Fuecker) died Sept 6th at the age of 74 in her Newberg, Oregon home. She was born January 20th, 1939, in Cold Spring, Minnesota, to Chester and Grace (Ferrier) Fuecker.
Jean met her husband, LeRoy, in 1958, while working with his sister, Sylvia, near Duluth. They were married April 4, 1959, and moved from Minnesota to Pelican, Alaska, where LeRoy spent summers as a commercial fisherman.
In 1962, Jean and LeRoy moved to a farm in Newberg, Oregon, to start a family, and in 1972 she began working as a cook for the Newberg School District. She retired from the district in 1997.
Survivors include children Karen Bie of Newberg, and Tom Bie, of Denver; sisters Pat (Art) Leistman of Paynesville, MN; Carol (Ken) Sykora of Brooklyn Park, MN; Fred (Nancy) of Bloomington, MN; Robert Fuecker of Crystal, MN; and Rick (Cindy) Fuecker of Kimball, MN.
Services were held Friday, Sept. 20, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Parish in Newberg.
August 2013
Lorraine F. Neu, age 92
Cold Spring
July 29, 1921 – August 28, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 31, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Lorraine F. Neu, age 92, who died Wednesday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring. Burial will be in the St. Nicholas Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Saturday morning in St. Boniface Church Narthex, Cold Spring. Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Lorraine was born in St. Nicholas, MN to Henry and Mamie (Spatgens) Wick. She married Tony Neu on May 13, 1941 in St. Nicholas Catholic Church. Lorraine was a homemaker and worked at Assumption Home as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 25 years. She loved quilt stitching, playing cards and casino trips. Lorraine was a member of St. Boniface Parish, St. Boniface and St. Nicholas Christian Women.
Survivors include her children, Edwin, Arlene Wick, Delrose (Bob) Desrosier, Elmer (Anita), Allen (Shirley); sister, Betty Nelson; daughter-in-law, Alice Neu; 38 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; 5-great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony; son, Jim; daughter-in-law, Patty Neu; son-in-law, James Wick; siblings, Donald Wick, Ambrosita Weber, Ralph Wick; grandchildren, Douglas Wick, Stephen Neu; great-grandson, Henry Meyer.
Ralph Bernard Zumwalde, age 95
Richmond
July 31, 1918 – August 23, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Ralph Zumwalde, age 95, who died Friday at Cherrywood Advanced Living in Richmond. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 8:30 – 10:45 a.m. Tuesday morning at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Richmond. Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Ralph was born in Richmond, MN to Math and Mary (Bolfing) Zumwalde. He married Marlinda (Linda) Ethen on June 24, 1948 at St. John Cantius Catholic Church, St. Cloud, MN. Ralph served in the Army during WWII from 1942 to 1946 as Staff Sergeant, serving in the European Theatre, and was awarded the Bronze Star. He was self-employed as a building contractor and retired in 1986, living in Richmond his entire life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, golfing, gardening, and reading. He was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, the Richmond American Legion, Volunteer Fire Department, Senior Citizens, Catholic Order of Foresters, Catholic United Financial, Civic & Commerce, and past member of the Central MN Builders Assn.
Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Linda; children, Mary Kay (Fred) Newman, O’Fallon, IL, Jeanne (Mark) Zenner, Great Falls, MT, Gary (Linda), Mankato, Alan (Diana), St. Cloud, Brian (Nancy), Golden Valley; sister-in-law, Dorothy Zumwalde; 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters and brother, Alvina (Ted) Torborg, Alma (Eddie) Kron, and Wally.
Memorials are preferred to Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, Richmond, MN.
Iris A. Merkel, age 83
Jacobs Prairie
November 6, 1929 – August 15, 2013
Iris Merkel of Cold Spring, MN, age 83 passed away on August 15 in Peoria, IL, surrounded by her loving family. She is the daughter of John and Mary Carvatt. Iris was the second of five children and was born and raised in Minnesota. She is survived by vher husband, Edward Merkel of Mesa, AZ; her loving daughter, Kelly McKinney (William) of Peoria, IL; her two grandchildren, Megan McKinney-Downs (Michael) of Woodbury, MN and William McKinney V (Nicole) of Bartonville, IL; sister, Doris LeMieux; brother, Ronald Carvatt (Ellen) and nephews/nieces.
Iris is preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah Smith; son, Gregory Smith; sisters, Maureen Knopik and Daureen Messer; and brothers-in-law, Florian Knopik and Lawrence LeMieux.
Iris was known for her quick wit and crafty card skills. She retired from Honeywell, Inc, in 1985 after 30 years with the company. During retirement she was an active RSVP volunteer in St. Cloud and a member of St. James Catholic Church in Jacobs Prairie.
When it came to fishing, she would catch’em, clean’em, cook’em but would never ever eat them! No one could can a batch of tomatoes like Iris, and she kept her family well stocked and well fed! She was a wonderful grandmother to her grandchildren and their spouses, was always up for a game of cribbage, and was practically a walking spell check. She enjoyed her retirement as a snowbird spending half of the year in her home state of Minnesota on the Sauk River in Cold Spring and the other half in the mild winters of Mesa, AZ.
A visitation for Iris will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Wednesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be 7:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Knights of Columbus. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 22, 2013 at St. James Catholic Church in Jacobs Prairie, MN. Interment will be at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, MN.
Memorials preferred to Sandra J. Schulze American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 411 Second St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901.
Arrangments with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, MN.
Patricia C. Neu, age 75
Cold Spring
July 26, 1938 - August 15, 2013
A service celebrating the life of Patricia (Pat/Patty) Neu, age 75 of Cold Spring, will be held Tuesday, August 20, 2013 at 11:00 am at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. Visitation will take place from 9:00-10:45 am Tuesday morning in the church narthex. Interment will take place in the parish cemetery. Arrangements are being made by Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Patricia was born on July 26, 1938, to Jerome and Lucille Berger. She grew up on a farm outside of Eden Valley and married Edwin E. Neu on May 20, 1958. The couple lived in Cold Spring where they raised their children Sharon Neu Johnson, Sandra Neu-Dwyer and Stephen Neu.
Pat was one of the first female employees at the Granit-Bronz in Cold Spring. She worked at the Granit-Bronz for more than 25 years until it became necessary for her to take early retirement. Pat was a member of the St. Boniface Christian Women.
Quick wit and strength were just two of her endearing qualities.
She is survived by her husband and daughters, Edwin, Sharon and Sandy; her grandchildren, Crystal Johnson, Derek Dwyer, Shaunte’ Dwyer, Nicholas Johnson, Tiana Neu, Cody Johnson and Logan Neu; her great-grandchildren, Mason, Madison and Parker Opatz-Johnson; her mother-in-law and nursing home companion, Lorraine Neu; as well as her siblings, Helen Wessels, Delores Lahr, Mary Kalthoff, Alice Neu, Kathy Utecht and Kenny Berger.
She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Stephen Neu; son-in-law, Steve Dwyer; sister, Margie Kalthoff and brother Bobby Berger.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to either the Assumption Nursing Home or the Assumption Chapel (Grasshopper Chapel).
Kenneth T. Brinkman, age 69
Richmond
August 10, 1944 – August 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 15, 2013, at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Kenneth T. Brinkman, age 69, who surrounded by his loving family, took hold of the Lord’s hand on his birthday (August 10) to walk with Him through eternity where there will be no more pain. Burial will be in the St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Farming, MN.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond and from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Thursday morning . Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Knights of Columbus.
Kenneth was born in Richmond, Minnesota to John and Veronica (Gertken) Brinkman. He married Mary Jane Klehr on June 22, 1974 in Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Richmond, MN. He served in the Army National Guard from 1965 to 1971. He was a farmer, enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and spending time with family. He was a member of the Farming Sportsmen’s Club, Farming Lions, American Legion Post 292, Knights of Columbus, and St. Martin Parish.
Survivors include his wife, Mary; children and families, Jason and Rebecca, Sarah and Cooper; Jesse and Robyn, Taylor, Brittany, Kendra; Jill and Pete Thelen , Kylie, Ava, Shelby; Jay and Katie, Eli, Reece, Violet; brothers & sisters, Ralph (Sharon), Alvina Mies (Tony), Fran Winters (Bud), Lorraine Jungles (Don), Cora Daugherty (Lyle), Werner (Donna), Melvin (Gayle), David (Janet), Diane Heying (Dennis), Judy Klehr (Delbert-deceased), Doris Grady (Michael), and Sandy Booth (Marc).
He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Veronica Brinkman; brothers-in-law, Ambrose Molitor, Hoppy Cassady, Delbert and Marvin Klehr.
Leander S. Meyer, age 85
Richmond
July 13, 1928 – August 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Leander S. Meyer, age 85, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Entombment will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Knights of Columbus. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Lee was born in Spring Hill, MN to John and Frances (Lieser) Meyer. He married Alvera Winning on August 26, 1952 in St. Andrews Catholic Church, Greenwald, MN. Lee worked for Cold Spring Granite Company for many years and retired in 1991. He was a Puzzle Master, who enjoyed farming and the outdoors. Lee was a gentle giant who loved his daily ride through the country with his son, John. He was a former president of the Richmond Baseball Team, served on the Richmond City Council and was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include his children, Bonnie Kalmoe, John Meyer, Jim (Laurie) Meyer, Jeff (Bonnie) Meyer, Brenda (Loren) Boeckmann, Beverly (Paul) Olmscheid, BethAnn (Michael) Neu; in-laws, Kathleen Meyer, Isabelle Meyer, Ray Gerding; 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Alvera (2006); siblings, Monica Leukam, Gerald Meyer, Sylvester Meyer, MaryAnn Gerding.
The family would like to thank the staff of the St. Cloud Hospital ICU for their compassionate care of Lee.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home, Richmond, Minnesota.
Marvin Henry Schwagel
Cold Spring
July 24, 1937 – August 5, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 9, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Marvin H. Schwagel, age 76, who died Monday at the St. Cloud Hospital surrounded by family. Inurnment will be private.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., August 9th in the Narthex of St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring.
Marv was born in St. Martin, MN. to Albert and Ann (Jonas) Schwagel. He married Judith Zimmer on June 3, 1961 in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Waite Park, MN. He served in the Army from 1954 to 1957. Marv worked as a mechanic his entire adult life retiring from Cold Spring Granite in 2001. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening, making wine, camping, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Judy; children, Rodney (Ann), Kelly (Kevin) Hiles, Stephen (Tia), Kristi (James) Eiler, Sonja (Keith) Torborg, and Patrick (Leslie); grandchildren, Samuel Schwagel, Stacey (Fischbach), Dale, John, Jamie & Jade Hiles, Travis, Brandon & Garrett Schwagel, Ethan & Wyatt Eiler, Isabella, Dawson & Lily Torborg, Rachel Schwagel; great grandchild, Kloey Heim; brothers, Linus and John (Doreen) Schwagel.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Terry Schwagel and LuAnn Fleischhacker.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Daniel J. Wicker, age 84
Pearl Lake (Marty)
November 24, 1928 – August 5, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 9, 2013 at Holy Cross Church in Marty for Daniel “Dan” Wicker, age 84, who passed away Monday at the VA Nursing Home. Father Mark Ostendorf will officiate. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery following the service. There will be a visitation for Daniel at Holy Cross Church on Thursday, August 8th from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Knights of Columbus. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the church.
Daniel was born on November 24, 1928 to John and Hattie (Dullinger) Wicker on the family farm where his dad was also born. He graduated from Kimball High School in 1946. He farmed with his family until he was drafted into the service in 1953. He served for the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. When he returned home, Daniel resumed farming. Daniel married Rita Reller on June 2, 1958 and together they raised six children. After retiring from farming, Daniel became a “parts runner” for his son, John. Daniel enjoyed taking care of his orchard and going out for coffee. He also enjoyed his hunting and fishing trips. He was especially proud of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Daniel is survived by his wife, Rita; children, Thomas (Kristine) of Crosby, Sharon (Dave) Scheeler of Merrifield, Jeanne (Tom) Pramann of Castlewood, SD, Judy (Charlie) Mueller of Marty, Brenda (Jeff) Reinhardt of Mahtomedi, John (Mary) of Marty; 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; siblings, Roger Wicker, Arlene Dockendorf of St. Cloud, Doris Goenner of Clear Lake, and sister-in-law, Doris Wicker.
He was preceded in death by this parents; brother, Eldred; sister, Patricia, and brother-in-law, Al Voit.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Evelyn Rose Dockendorf, age 85
Cold Spring
January 14, 1928 – August 3, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 6, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Evelyn Rose Dockendorf, age 85, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Inurnment will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery, Marty, MN.
Relatives and friends may call from 9 – 11 a.m., Tuesday morning at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring.
Evelyn was born in Pearl Lake to Henry and Mathilda (Pelzer) Nistler on January 14, 1928. She married Edward Martin Dockendorf on June 24, 1950 in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Marty. Evelyn was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing cards and loved visiting with others.
Survivors include her loving husband, Edward; children, Bob of Carlton, Diane (Tom) Blommer of St. Cloud, Gary (Mary Lee) of Richmond, Linda (Jim) Sand, of St Cloud, Bill (Laurie) of Richfield, Steve (Cindy) of Champlin, Sue (Bernie) Gregory of Pearl Lake, and Mark of Baxter; siblings, George Nistler, Delphine Wirtzfeld, Ralph Nistler, Donna Dols, and Mary Tank; 21 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her brothers, Adrian, Norbert, and Jerome Nistler and one grandchild.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
July 2013
Mary T. Gill, age 56
Cold Spring
March 21, 1957 – July 26, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Mary T. Gill, age 56, who died Friday surrounded by her family at the St. Cloud Hospital after a battle with cancer. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 7:00 p.m followed by a rosary with the Richmond Catholic Order of Foresters. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Mary was born in St. Cloud, MN to Sylvester and Theresia (Schmitz) Sand Sr. Mary worked at Gold’N Plump for 30 years and retired in 2012. She was a NASCAR fanatic who also loved the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. Mary was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Catholic Order of Foresters and the Independent Order of Foresters.
Survivors include her sons, Bob Jr. (Myra), Brian (Kelly); mother, Theresia Sand; siblings, Patricia Sand, Sylvester Sand Jr., Mark (Kayla) Sand, Peter Sand, Lisa (Dan) Lichte; grandchildren, Jamie, Trinity, Jayden and Kassidy.
She was preceded in death by her father, Sylvester Sand Sr.
Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Richmond.
Evelyn S. Maselter, age 100
Rockville
April 18, 1913 – July 12, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Rockville, MN for Evelyn S. Maselter, age 100, who died Friday at the Assumption Nursing Home in Cold Spring. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Rockville.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 16th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Christian Women. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Evelyn was born in Waite Park, MN to Andrew and Cecelia (Roden) Braun. She was married to Frank Hoffman until his death in 1952. She later married Ed Maselter; Ed died in 2004. Evelyn dairy farmed and did housekeeping for various clients. She also worked at the Log Lodge in Waite Park and Rockville Locker Plant. Evelyn enjoyed gardening, canning, baking, knitting, and especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Evelyn was a member of Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, Christian Women, St. Theresa Mission Group, and Catholic United Financial.
Survivors include her son, Jim (Connie) Hoffmann; sisters, RoseMary Weitzel, Francis Malikawski; brother, Clarence Braun; grandchildren, Jennifer Burger, Frank Hoffmann, and Bill Hoffmann; great-grandchildren, Payton Burger, Austin Burger, Michael Hoffmann, Trevor Hoffmann, and step-great-granddaughter, Jackie Patnoe.
She was preceded in death by her twin son and daughter; husbands, Frank Hoffmann, Edwin Maselter, and brother, Norbert Braun.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Lydia M. Rausch, age 86
Cold Spring
June 2, 1927 – July 12, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Lydia Rausch, age 86, who died Friday at Assumption Nursing Home, Cold Spring, MN. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 15th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the St. Boniface Christian Women. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Lydia was born in Avon, MN to Joseph & Mary (Albers) Athman. She married Bernard Rausch on June 24, 1950 in St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Avon, MN. She worked for the ROCORI School District as an Aide, mainly in the Media Center. Lydia loved to golf, bowl, play piano, fish and travel with her husband, Bernie. In her later years, she enjoyed playing cards and going on casino trips with her friends. Lydia was an avid Twins fan and loved watching sports. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and later her 2 great-granddaughters. Lydia was a member of St. Boniface Parish, Resurrection Choir, Christian Mothers, and Cold Spring American Legion Auxiliary.
Survivors include her children, Steve (Sandy) of Cold Spring, Curt (Betsy) of Chaska, Glen (Deb) of Acworth, GA, and Lisa (Kevin) Jungles of Rogers; brother, Alfred Athman; sisters-in-law, Monica Athman, Bernie (Athman) Meemken, Rose (Rausch) Zimmerman; brother-in-law, Jerome Rausch; 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard; brothers and sisters, Matilda Resseman (Joe), Rudy Athman (Irma), Richard Athman, Marietta Athman, Julia Goerss (Earl), Herbert Athman, Rita Lauer (Romuald); in-laws, Leo Rausch, Raymond Rausch, Veronica Wickersham, Norbert Rausch, Eleanor Rausch, Paul Rausch.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Raymond J. “Mickey” Wendt Jr., age 79
Cold Spring
February 15, 1934 – July 8, 2013
Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 11, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN for Raymond J. “Mickey” Wendt Jr., age 79, who died Monday at Assumption Home. Burial will be in Maine Prairie Cemetery, Kimball, MN. Visitation will be from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Mickey was born in Cook County, IL to Raymond J. Sr. and Nellie (Goldsworthy) Wendt. He married Joann Sykes on December 5, 1957. Mickey served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1954 – 1956. He worked for many local businesses, including most recently Wendt’s and Sons, Landy’s, and Dutch Maid Bakery.
Survivors include his daughter, Sally Wendt; stepdaughter, Pat (Gilbert Sr.) Michalski; siblings, Sally Kroc, John Wendt, and Susie Clark; grandchildren, Theresa (Craig) Tubb, Gilbert Jr. (Jennifer) Michalski, and Jerry Michalski; great-granddaughter, Kristin Tubb, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joann; parents; brother, Bill; nephew, Billy, and niece Pamela.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Esther A. Koska, age 89
Cold Spring
April 16, 1924 – July 7, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Esther A. Koska, age 89, who died Sunday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday (TODAY), at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Esther was born in St. Martin to Michael and Clara (Blonigen) Terres. She married Victor Koska in St. Martin Catholic Church. Esther worked many years at Stearns Manufacturing, and Fingerhut and later farmed with her husband until 1971. Esther loved to dance, flowers, sewing, and was always full of life. She was a member of St. Boniface Parish.
Survivors include her son, Gary (Nancy) Koska; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Terres, Jim and Mary Ann Koska, Leonard Koska, and Lorraine Koska.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor (1971), and son, Alan (2009); sister, Marie Welle; brother, Jerry Terres; brothers and sisters-in-law, Syl Welle, Bill Koska, Melvin Koska, and Jackie Koska.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Raymond “Ray” Blonigen, age 80
St. Martin
August 31, 1932 – July 3, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Raymond “Ray” Blonigen, age 80, who died Wednesday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the St. Martin Parish Cemetery.
A visitation for Ray will be after 4:00 p.m. Friday at the St Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. followed by a rosary with Catholic United Financial, St. Joseph Society and the Knights of Columbus. 4th Degree Knights of Columbus Queen of Peace will stand Honor Guard from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the St. Martin Parish Hall. Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Ray was born in St. Martin Township to Mathias and Veronica (Mayers) Blonigen. He married Darleen Faust on May 3, 1961 in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Pierz, Minnesota and they were blessed with 6 children. Ray farmed all his life and together with Darleen they farmed Northwest of St. Martin for 52 years. Ray enjoyed fishing, farming, driving tractor, and was very involved in the St. Martin Catholic Church as a trustee for many years and ushering. He designed and built with Worm Lumber in New Munich the first slat floor for a steer barn in the State of Minnesota.
Survivors include his wife, Darleen; children, Florence Schefers, Wilfred (Judy) Blonigen, Shirley (Robert) Solsrud, Nancy (Blaine) Pfeiffer, Ann (Jeff) Soderholm, Sharon (Chad) Geist; brothers, Silverius (Margaret), Clarence (Annella), Leander (Annette); sisters, Bernadine (Orville) Jacobson, Clotilda (Bernard) Bussman, Dolores Pundsack; 13 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild and 2 on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, Roy Arnzen and Donald Pundsack.
June 2013
James Killian “Jimmy” Loesch, age 76
Pearl Lake (Marty)
June 4, 1937 – June 28, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pearl Lake (Marty), MN for James Killian “Jimmy” Loesch, age 76, who died peacefully Friday of Leukemia at the St. Cloud Hospital surrounded by his family. Burial will be in the Holy Cross Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Monday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be at 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Jimmy was born on the family farm in Pearl Lake to Alphonse and Theresa (Pelzer) Loesch. He married Virginette “Virgie” Liesch on July 16, 1960 in Holy Angels Catholic Church, St. Cloud. Together for 40 years they lovingly made a home and raised a family that they both had much pride in. After the loss of his wife, Jimmy went on to find love again with Linda. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He had a lifelong love of baseball and stayed involved in the game until age 73. Jimmy served in the U.S. Army for 2 years and worked at the Cold Spring Granite Company until his retirement in 1999. In his retirement he initiated Bologna Days at the Pearl Lake Lodge. Jimmy was a member of Holy Cross Parish and was a very active member in the Pearl Lake Recreation Club and Community.
Survivors include his loving companion and partner in life, Linda Feddema; children, Scott (Janel) of St. Cloud, Cindy (Tim) Ramler of St. Augusta, Tami (Ken) Molitor of Delano, Jason (Jill) of Minneapolis; sister, Laura Jane Leither, brother, Roy (Phyllis); sisters-in-law, Donna Loesch, Katie Liesch, Renee Kunkel; grandchildren, Meagan, Garrett, Kylie, Linzi, Brianna (Mike), Jordan, Maria, Bella, Max, Elliana; great-granddaughter, Addilynn; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Virgie; brothers, Edwin, Daniel and Patrick.
Arrangements with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, Minnesota.
Paul Anthony Hughey, age 74
St. Martin
November 16, 1938 – June 13, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 17, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Paul Anthony Hughey, age 74, who died Thursday at Hilltop Heath Care Center in Watkins, MN. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
A visitation for Paul will be from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Monday at the St Martin Parish Hall. Parish prayers will be at 12:00 p.m.
Paul was born in Franklin, Indiana to Marshall and Olive (Scriven) Hughey. He married Jimmie Lee Flume on June 19, 1965 in San Juan Capistrano, San Antonio, Texas. He served in the National Guard and Air Force as a P.T. Instructor. Paul was a writer and photographer who had many articles published in outdoor magazines. He was a member of St. Martin Parish where he participated in the parish choir, served as a CCD Teacher, wrote the parish bulletin and a book about the St. Martin Parish history. He was also a member of the St. Martin Community Band. Paul enjoyed fishing, the outdoors and especially spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Jimmie; daughter, Molly (Tony) Mitzel; grandson, Jacob; sisters-in-law, Barbara Hughey and Mary Lou Hughey.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Philip and Jonathan.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Debra (Rothstein) Deanovic, age 45
Richmond
April 5, 1968 – June 12, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 17, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Debra Deanovic, age 45, who died Wednesday at Cherrywood Advanced Living in Richmond after a 3 year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Inurnment will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond and 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Monday morning in the Sts. Peter & Paul Church Gathering Space.
Deb was born in Richmond, MN to Ansgar “Arnie” and JoAnn (Nett) Rothstein. She graduated from ROCORI High School in 1986, earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree at the College of St. Benedict and a Masters Degree at University of St. Thomas. Deb loved to travel and spend time with her family and friends. She was a member of the MN Society of CPA’s.
Survivors include her parents; brother and sisters, Randy (Mary) Rothstein, Jean (Dale) Stang, and Lisa (Pat) Schmitz; nieces and nephews, Trent and Jill Rothstein, Brittany Reich, Courtney Stang, Alex and Emily Schmitz.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents; two nieces and a nephew.
Memorials are preferred to the ALS Association.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
John Mathias Scheffler, age 90
Cold Spring
August 5, 1922 – June 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 12:00 p.m., Thursday, June 13, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for John Mathias Scheffler, age 90, who died peacefully Monday at Assumption Home with his loving family by his side. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Knights of Columbus will pray a Rosary at 9:30 a.m., Thursday morning in the St. Boniface Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:45 a.m., in the church narthex.
John was born in Ellsworth, MN, the son of John and Katherine (Gerardy) Scheffler. He married Ida Kellen at St. Adrian’s Catholic Church in Adrian, MN on July 29, 1947. John served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. He was aboard the U.S.S. Herndon for 4 years. After his honorable discharge he was employed at the Municipal Power Plant in Worthington, MN until 1953 when he was employed as Chief Engineer at the Luverne, MN power plant. In 1957 he moved his family to Taconite Harbor on the North Shore of Lake Superior where he was employed by Erie Mining Co. John retired in 1983 and moved to Cold Spring in 1986. He was a member of St. Boniface Parish, a 72 year member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of VFW Post No. 6915 and American Legion Post No. 0455 in Cold Spring. John enjoyed fishing, playing the harmonica, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ida; sons and daughters-in-law, Gene and Kathleen Scheffler of Golden Valley, MN, Eldon and Carla Scheffler of Sartell, MN, Guy and Cindi Scheffler of Plymouth, MN, John and Laurie Scheffler of Las Vegas, NV; daughters and son-in-law, Irene Durfee of Duluth, MN, Karen Eliasen of Barron, WI, Carolyn and David Wood of Plymouth, MN; 13 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Andrew Scheffler; sisters, Celine Klein, Henrietta Bullerman, and Mildred Voss.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Elmer, and sister, Rosemary Kellen.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Werner Schneider, age 88
Cold Spring, formerly of Meire Grove
April 29, 1925 – June 1, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Werner Schneider, age 88, who died Saturday at his home. Inurnment will be in the St. John’s Parish Cemetery in Meire Grove, MN.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 4th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m., Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Werner was born in Meire Grove to John and Bernadina (Kerkering) Schneider. He married Florentine Urbasich on May 29, 1952 in St. Anthony, MN. Werner worked for Culligan, sold investments, owned his own trucking company, drove truck for Jennie O Foods, was a bus driver for Riley Tour Bus, and played and coached amateur baseball. He was a member of St. Boniface Parish.
Survivors include his children, David (Amy), Gerald (Mary), Carol (John) Thelen, Butch (Eileen), and Daniel (Dana); brothers and sisters, Marie Marthaler, Clara Frieler, Ludvina Ostendorf, Joseph Schneider, Arlene Gully, and Lorraine Inderrieden; 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Florentine Schneider; brothers and sisters, Leona, Leo, and Elmer; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe Gully, Gilbert Marthaler, Clarence Frieler, Frances Schneider, Erv Ostendorf, and Bob Inderrieden; granddaughter, Emily Thelen.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
May 2013
Maynard D. Lommel, age 80
Pearl Lake (Marty)
June 14, 1932 – May 29, 2013
Maynard D. Lommel, age 80 went peacefully at his home on Wednesday surrounded by his family after battling cancer. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pearl Lake (Marty), MN. Concelebrants will be Fr. Mark Ostendorf and Fr. Ralph Zimmerman. Visitation will be from 8:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, MN.
Maynard was born June 14, 1932 the son of Raymond and Florence (Eversman) Lommel in St. Cloud, MN. After graduation from St. Cloud Technical High School he served 2 years in the US Army. Maynard worked at Great Northern Railroad and 33 years at the St. Cloud Hospital as Director of Purchasing. He was united in marriage to Lenore M. Loesch on August 31, 1957, together they raised 4 wonderful children. Maynard loved antiquing with his Aunt Martha, drawing plans for his next big project, going north to the cabin and spending time with friends and family. He also took pride in his flowers and loved to care for his lawn and garden.
Survivors include his loving wife, Lenore, children, David (Bonnie) Lommel, Jeneen (Dale) Albers, Warren (Lenore “Lenny”) Lommel; grandchildren, Ashley and Cody Lommel, Amy (Mike) Blaskowski, Gina (Jason) Libbesmeier, Katlin, James and Weston Albers; great-grandchildren, Riley Albers, Taylor, Elliana and Eli Libbesmeier, Eva Blaskowski, Madilyn Albers and Calvin Knaus.
He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Gordon Lommel.
Richard “Dick” Inderrieden, age 72
Cold Spring
February 10, 1941 – May 25, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Richard “Dick” Inderrieden, age 72, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center. Inurnment will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Pearl Lake (Marty).
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the mass in the church narthex Wednesday morning.
Dick was born in Little Falls, MN to August and Francis (Schroeder) Inderrieden. He married Sandi (Kress) Hitzler on December 4, 1982 in Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pearl Lake. Dick served in the air force from 1959-1963. He loved anything with an engine, especially his 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible, and enjoyed going to car shows. Dick was a member of the Cold Spring American Legion, St. Boniface Parish and the St. Cloud Fishing Club.
Survivors include his wife, Sandi; children, Heidi Harris, Tim Hitzler, Joe Inderrieden, Dane Inderrieden; grandchildren, Patrick, Danielle, Timothy and Zachary Harris, Ava and Amara Hitzler; siblings, John Inderieden and Arlene (Mel) Opstad.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Doug; granddaughter, Adriannah and brother, Robert.
The family would like to thank the staff at the VA Medical Center; especially Cassie and Char.
Sharon Donabauer, age 74
Watkins
March 24, 1939 – May 25, 2013
A funeral service will be 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN for Sharon Donabauer, age 74, who died Saturday at her home surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer. Inurnment will be in the St. Anthony Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 at the Wenner Funeral Home prior to the funeral service.
Sharon was born in Minot, ND to Clarence and Kathleen (Sieverling) Ahearn. She married Gilbert Donabauer on October 19, 1957 in St. Mary’s Cathedral, St. Cloud, MN. Sharon and Gilbert owned and operated Gib’s Well Drilling, and the Kimball Liquor Store for many years. She worked at Hutchinson Technology and then Hutchinson Hospital until her retirement. She loved her family and was devoted to her dogs, Nikko, Oreo, and Sassy.
Survivors include her children, Cindy (Chad) Almgren, Don (Kelly) Donabauer, Mike Donabauer; daughter-in-law, Anne Donabauer; siblings, Del (Jean) Ahearn, Susan Mills; grandchildren, Steven (Angie), Jason and Shawn Donabauer, Darrin (Amy) Hall, Amanda (Dustin) Orbeck, Brittany Donabauer and Jason Anderson, Nick and Samantha Donabauer, Jerry (Stacy) Almgren, Jessica and Joshua Almgreen; great-grandchildren, Hunter, Brailee, Lucy, Collin and Blake.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert and son Charles “Chuck” Donabauer.
Mae Virant, age 89
Cold Spring
May 29, 1923 – May 21, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Mae Virant, age 89, who died Tuesday at Assumption Home in Cold Spring. Inurnment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may gather one hour prior to mass in the church narthex.
Mae was born in Biwabik, MN to Anton Elof and Hilma Marie (Stockey) Youngquist. She married Bill Virant on July 31, 1948 in St. John Catholic Church, Biwabik. Mae attended school in Biwabik and nurse’s training in Detroit, MI. She entered the United States Army as a nurse and served in the South Pacific Theater during WWII. Mae was a homemaker, Cub Scout leader, and was active in local bridge clubs and Meals on Wheels. She enjoyed traveling, hiking and picking blueberries.
Survivors include her children, Priscilla Virant (Lee Rosen), William Jr. (Jeanne), Nancy (Steve) Carlson, Tari (Alvin) Ahlgrim, David (Mary); sister, Edie Herr; brother, Gordon Youngquist.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, sisters, Ellen and Esther; brothers, Carl, Harry, Marvin “Dutch”, John and an infant sibling.
In Lieu of flowers memorials preferred to Rocori area Dollars for Scholars endowment program.
Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring, MN.
Edward C. Haus
, age 47
Pearl Lake (Marty)
September 25, 1965 – May 18, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 23, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pearl Lake (Marty), MN for Edward C. Haus, age 47, who died unexpectedly Saturday at his home of natural causes. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Wednesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond.
Ed was born in St. Cloud, MN to Cyril and Marian (Valerius) Haus. He married Kathy Vogt on September 25, 2004 in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Pearl Lake. Ed owned and operated Quality Haus Builders; he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and was a proud gardener. He adored his family and was an active member of Holy Cross Parish, Pheasants Forever, and as an avid member of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ed was devoted to mentoring kids in the outdoors.
Survivors include his loving wife, Kathy; stepsons, Cory Christian and Ryan Christian; parents, Cyril and Marian Haus; brothers and sisters, Diane (Allen) Kuechle, Dave (Judy) Haus, Marge (Willy) Kuechle, Jerry (Lisa) Haus, Alan (Michele) Haus, Mark (Stacey) Haus, Chuck (Sondra) Haus, Jana (Troy) Hilsgen, Debbie Haus, John (Nicol) Haus, Neil (Terese) Haus; mother-in-law, Stella Vogt; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mark (Lynn) Vogt, Randy (Ann) Vogt, Sandy (Russ) Van Beck, Tim Vogt (Julie Steuck); 36 nieces and nephews; 1 great-nephew and 1 great-niece.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Henry and Anna Haus, Clem and Theresa Valerius; father-in-law, Silverius “Skit” Vogt.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Margie R. Pauls, age 82
February 20, 1931 ~ May 16, 2013
Church Services will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2013 at 11AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Richmond Minnesota with Father Stephen Beauclair. Burial will be held at St. Nicholas Cemetery, St. Nicholas, MN.
Margie R Pauls was born on February 20, 1931 in Saint Nicholas, Minnesota. She was the daughter of John P. and Rose (Dockendorf) Beckius. Margie was united in marriage to Leroy A. Pauls on November 9, 1949 at Sacred Heart Church, Sauk Rapids, MN. Margie was a retired waitress and a Dietitian. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, avid bird watcher, Bingo and all of her Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren. Margie is survived by her children and their spouses, Lee and Cindy Pauls, Stan Pauls, Sharon and Dave Pedigo and Kathy and Larry Rada. Grandchildren, Jamie(Meghann), Laura(David), Brandon, Jessica(Steve), Kristen, Tanya(Chuck), David(Elizabeth), Don(Jenny), Keith(Rachel), Brian(Lynn), Brandi(Jay), Brad(Renee), Brittany(Nick). Great Grandchildren, Abi, Ella, Paige, Savannah, Athena, Catlynne, Collin, Alysssa, Kyle, Natalie, Vincent, Chloe, Kaydence, Abby, Madelyn, Brianna and Zoey. Brother, John (Diane) Beckius and many nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by parents, John P and Rose Beckius, husband Leroy A Pauls, son Brian Pauls, sister-in-law Marie Nowlin, sisters Lavern, Viola, Delores, Virgie and Joan. Brothers, Victor, Vernon, Larry and Jimmy.
Jerome Bechtold, age 86
Rockville
May 3, 1927 – May 16, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Rockville, MN for Jerome F. Bechtold age 86 who died Thursday. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Monday in the church. Parish prayers will be at 8 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring.
Jerome was born May 3, 1927, in Waite Park, Minnesota, to Albert J. Bechtold and Clara (Weyer) Bechtold. He married LeMay Wagner on August 18, 1948, in Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Nashua, Montana.
Jerry farmed near Rockville and was active in conservation work and local politics his whole life. He was on the Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District since 1957 and served as the board chairperson for 20 years, was a member of the Rockville Township planning commission, was active in the National Catholic Rural Life Conference, and with LeMay, co-chaired the St. Cloud Diocesan Rural Life Committee. He was a member of Mary of the Immaculate Conception parish in Rockville. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1948 in the Pacific during World War II.
Survivors include his wife of 65 years, LeMay of Rockville, and his children, Karen (Bernie) Koltes of Albany, Brigid of Plymouth, Barbara (John Tomaro) of Juneau, Alaska, Stephen (Helen) of Blackduck, Mary Ruth of Fort Peck, Montana, Gregory, Mark, and Roger of Rockville, Joyce of Ellicott City, Maryland, and Timothy (Karen Knudsen) of Missoula, Montana; brothers, Philip (Marie) of Covina, California, Cletus (Monica) of St. Joseph, and Alphonse (Betty) of Sauk Rapids, and brothers-in law, Leander Meyer of St. Joseph, J.F. (Arlys) Wagner, and Phil Boerschinger of Billings, Montana, Roger (Laura) Wagner of Nashua, Montana, and David (Dixie) Wagner of Towner, North Dakota. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, his aunt, Sally Weyer of Sartell, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his son, Michael, in 1973; his sisters, Dolores Meyer and Rosemary Warnert; his brothers-in-law, Robert Warnert, Hugh Wagner, Phillip Wagner, Richard Wagner; his sisters-in-law, Mary Margarette Hanson, Therese Anne Wagner, and Damaris Boerschinger, and his great-grandson, Waylon Beard.
Memorials are preferred to the Post-Polio Support Group or a conservation initiative of your choice.
Richard C. Schramel, age 82
Richmond
December 6, 1930 – May 18, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Richard C. Schramel, age 82, who died Saturday at his home surrounded by his family after a brief battle with cancer. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Monday, May 20th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 7:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Catholic United Financial. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Richard was born in Collegeville Township to Michael and Frances (Ruprecht) Schramel. He married Virgillett Kammers on August 30, 1955 in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond. Richard served in the U.S. Army from 1952 – 1954. He was a farmer and worked road construction until his retirement. He enjoyed dancing, playing his concertina, auctions, camping, going to the casino, tinkering, and caring for his lawn. Richard especially loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his dog Riley.
Survivors include his wife, Virgellett; children, Judy (Dave) Ruegemer of St. Joe, Linda (Dave) Schreifels of St. Cloud, Ken (Ann) of Cold Spring, Gene (Shelly) of Cold Spring, Ruth (Perry) Mistry of Los Gatos, CA, Jim (Mary) of Clear Lake, Doug (Carri) of Cold Spring, Dean of St. Joe, Amy (Josh) Rogahn of Otsego; siblings, Clarence (Cecelia), Eldred (Nora), Rita Anderson, Lucille Guck, and Hildegarde Benda; 19 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Joan; parents, and sisters, Marie Aune and Ledwina DeWenter.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN
James R. Schreifels,
age 50
Pearl Lake/Kimball
January 10, 1963 ~ May 15, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of James R. Schreifels, age 50, of Pearl Lake/Kimball will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in St. Joseph. Jim passed away after a year-long battle with Kidney Cancer on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at his home with family by his side. Reverend Jerome Tupa, OSB will officiate. Burial will be at a later date.
Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday and after 8:30 a.m. on Saturday at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Joseph. Parish prayers will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday at the Funeral Home.
Jim was born on January 10, 1963 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Richard E. and Virginia (Bauer) Schreifels. He graduated from St. Cloud Technical High School in 1981 and from St. Cloud Technical College with a degree in Water Treatment and Business Management. He was president and owner of Schreifels Water Works, operating for 20 plus years. Jim was united in marriage to Kati Ostendorf on May 10, 2013 at their home on the lake.
Jim loved spending time with his eight year old son, Brayden. They enjoyed fishing and being out on the Pontoon together. Jim was an avid hunter who enjoyed the outdoors, playing softball and spending time at the cabin. Jim will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife, Kati and their son, Brayden of Pearl Lake; mother, Ginny Schreifels of St. Cloud; brothers and sister, Gordy (Jolaine) of Pearl Lake, Randy (Roseann) of Clearwater, Dean (Denise) of Lakeville, Judy (Greg) Flint of Richmond; parents-in-law, Gary and Cheryl Ostendorf; sister-in-law, Kristi Ostendorf; and 12 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard E. in 1995; grandparents, Ben and Isabelle Scheifels, Math and Marcella Bauer; and step-grandmother, Alvina Bauer.
Memorials are preferred.
Muriel LaFond Eisler, age 91
Cold Spring
January 6th, 1922 ~ May 13, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Muriel LaFond Eisler, age 91, of Cold Spring will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring. Muriel passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, May 13, 2013 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Cloud. Reverend Cletus Connors, OSB will officiate. Burial will be in Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud.
Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. Arrangements are with Daniel Funeral Home, St. Cloud.
Muriel was born on January 6, 1922 in Crookston, Minnesota to the late Walter and Clara (Zimmerman) Millar. She married Gayle E. LaFond on May 3, 1940 in Ventura, California. They moved to Argyle in 1948 and to St. Cloud in 1960 where they raised their family. Gayle passed away in 1990. Muriel married Bob Eisler on April 9, 1999 at St. Boniface Catholic Church. She was a member of St. Boniface Parish and volunteered with many organizations throughout her life.
Muriel loved flowers, painting, golfing and was an excellent seamstress. Above all, Muriel treasured time with her family and will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
She is survived by her husband, Bob of Cold Spring; children, Julie Gretsch of Cold Spring; Jim LaFond of Cold Spring, Jane (Doug) Johnson of White Bear Lake, Joni Smoley of St. Cloud; step-children, Terry (Dick) Mattson of Plymouth, Pam (Frank) Buntrock of Minneapolis; ten grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gayle LaFond; step-son, Greg Eisler; granddaughter, Jackie Gretsch Gustafson; son-in-law, Tom Gretsch; and sister, Jackie.
A heartfelt thank you to the loving staff of Quiet Oaks Hospice for the excellent care they gave our family. Memorials are preferred to Quiet Oaks.
Viola Brinkman, age 84
Richmond
July 14, 1928 – May 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Viola Brinkman, age 84, who died Friday at Assumption Home. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m. Monday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women, Catholic Society of Foresters, Catholic United Financial and St. Michael’s Mission Group. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Viola was born in Richmond, MN to Bernard and Mary (Zumwalde) Schouviller. She married Bernard John Brinkman on August 8, 1949 in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Richmond, MN. Viola was co-owner of Brinky’s in Richmond. She was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish where she was a communion minister, member of the adult choir, and volunteer librarian for the school. Viola enjoyed crocheting, embroidery, gardening, quilting, dancing, traveling, and volunteering. She was a great cook and loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Viola was a member of Christian Women, Catholic Society of Foresters, Catholic United Financial, and St. Michael’s Mission Group.
Survivors include her children, Gail of Richfield, MN, Wayne (Jan) of St. Cloud, Gary (Cindy) of Richmond, Allen (Carol) of St. Cloud, and Dave (Christine Carlson) of Bellevue, WA; sisters, Ruth Backlund, Eleanor Jordahl, and Lillian Sichak; sister-in-law, LaVerne Schouviller; grandchildren, Dan (Ellen), Beth (Justin) Fletcher, Jenny Brinkman-Zika (Scott Zika), Christopher (Sarah), Katie (Matt Kilian), Michael, Emily, Teal, Tanna, and Kira; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Madeline, Claire, Lauren, Alexa, and Elle.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard “BJ” (2006); siblings, Roy, Ray, Bernard, Anna Marie, and Teresa; in-laws, John Sichak, Wes Backlund, Jim Jordahl, Bernice Schouviller, Dorothy Schouviller, and nephew, Tom Sichak.
The family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Assumption Home staff and St. Cloud Hospice for their loving care of our mother.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Vera Pilkenton, age 79
Cold Spring
February 5, 1934 – May 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Vera Pilkenton, age 79, who died Friday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m., Monday, May 13th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the St. Boniface Christian Women. Visitation will continue from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m., Tuesday morning at the funeral home.
Vera was born in St. Joseph, MN to Bobbie and George Theisen. She worked at Fingerhut for 29 years, retiring in 1996. Vera enjoyed embroidery, puzzles, movies, and socializing with family and friends over a few beers. She was a member of the St. Boniface Christian Women.
Survivors include her children, Jodie (Jack) Friebe, Michael Neis, and Carla (Tim) Phillips; special neighbor and friend, Danny Krey; siblings, Corrine (Ron) Buski, and Dolly (Curt) Wojciechowski; 4 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, “Baby Dale”.
Special thanks to Dr. Christopher Wenner, the entire staff of the Assumption Nursing Home, and all of the people who cared for Vera and made her comfortable at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
April 2013
Alex J. Schreifels, age 87
St. Cloud
June 7, 1925 ~ April 30, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Alex J. Schreifels, 87, of St. Cloud will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2013 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in St. Cloud. Alex died on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at Country Manor Care Center in Sartell. Reverend Thomas Knoblach will officiate. Entombment will be in Assumption Cemetery Mausoleum, St. Cloud.
Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud and after 10:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. Parish prayers will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.
Alex was born on June 7, 1925 in Cold Spring, Minnesota to the late William and Agnes (Zimmermann) Schreifels. He served as a Staff Sgt. in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1958. Alex married Marjorie “Marge” Brausen on May 29, 1958 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud. He lived all of his married life in St. Cloud and retired as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service after 19 years. He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish and Knights of Columbus Council #12098, St. Cloud Veterans of Foreign Wars Granite Post #428, the Waite Park American Legion Silver Star Post #428 and the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Alex was passionate about music and could play by ear. He learned how to play the organ through a correspondence course during his early years. He also learned to play the accordion and played in several bands during his life, most recently entertaining at the Whitney Senior Center. Alex enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing cards or just visiting. We will miss his warm smile and wonderful sense of humor. He was always trying to brighten someone’s day.
Alex is survived by his daughter, Michelle “Shelly” (Barry) Rindahl of St. Cloud; grandchildren, Katie Rindahl of Minneapolis, Ryan Rindahl (fiancée Kaela) of St. Cloud, Jonathon Rindahl of St. Cloud; and brother and sister, Andrew (Theresa) Schreifels of Waite Park and Veronica (Don) Kruchten of St.Michael.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Marge in 1995; brothers, John, Herman, Fr. Rupert OSB, Leonard, Hubert and Ferdinand Schreifels; and sisters, Frances Donnay, Elizabeth Theis, Eleanor Bruemmer and Helen Schwinden.
Alex’s family would like to thank all of the caring nurses and staff at Country Manor for their compassionate care given to Alex during his time there.
Memorial are preferred to Country Manor Care Center.
Leona Anna Statz, age 91
Richmond
April 27, 1922 – April 28, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 3, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Leona Anna Statz, age 91, who died Sunday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Entombment will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Mausoleum.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Wenner Funeral Home, 151 Oakwood Ave. SE, Richmond. Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women will pray a rosary at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.
Leona was born in Farming, MN to Joseph and Anna (Lodermeier) Rausch. She married Thomas J. Statz on September 24, 1946 in St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Farming. Leona was a wonderful seamstress and loved quilting. She also enjoyed playing cards and gardening. Leona was a member of the Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women, Rosary Society, and Mission Group.
Survivors include her husband, Thomas; children, Joyce (David Hogan), Robert (Mary Lynn), Gilbert (Vicki), Eldred (Sue), Marlene (Dan) Hovland, Bernice (Gary) Beehler, Howard (Susan), James (Connie), Vinard (Sandy), Laura (Brett) Johnson, Brian (Heather), Charlotte (Craig) Karolus; sister, Theresa (Joseph) Loecken; 29 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Catherine, Elizabeth, Mary, Cecilia, and Margaret; twin brother, Joseph; brothers, Lenny, Eddy, Aloysious, Alphonse, and Joseph D.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Assumption Home for their kind, gentle care.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Grace G. Taplett, age 103
Cold Spring
July 30, 1909 – April 25, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 27, 2013 in the Chapel of Assumption Nursing Home, Cold Spring, MN for Grace Taplett, age 103, who died Thursday at the Assumption Home. Entombment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon in the Chapel at Assumption Home, Cold Spring. Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Grace was born in Flandreau, SD to Albert and Louisa (Fahnle) Deklotz. She married John “Jack” Taplett on August 5, 1946 in Tyndall, SD. Grace attended the University of South Dakota where she earned her teaching degree. She taught in Estellina, Tyndall and Vermillion, SD, and in Biwabik, MN before retiring from John Clark Elementary School in Rockville, MN after 34 years of teaching 5th grade students. Grace loved the outdoors and could often be found sunning herself by the front entrance of Assumption Nursing Home. Grace also loved to walk the halls and visit with staff, residents and tenants.
Survivors include many nephews and nieces.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack (2009).
Roger H. VanNurden, age 70
Watkins
October 17, 1942 ~ April 24, 2013
Roger H. VanNurden, of Watkins, died Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at his son’s home in Ramsey. A memorial service will held on Monday, April 29, 2013 at
10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Watkins with interment in the church cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. Rev. John Brunner will officiate. Arrangements are with the Ertl Funeral Home, Watkins.
Roger VanNurden was born on October 17, 1942 at Watkins, MN. He was the son of Clayton and Louise (Donnay) VanNurden. Roger farmed at Watkins and drove truck for a short time. He also drove school bus for the St. Cloud and Kimball school districts for many years. Roger enjoyed farming and field work. His hobbies included tinkering with old tractors and vehicles. Roger especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Roger is survived by his son and daughter in law, Randy and Heidi VanNurden of Ramsey; four grandchildren; brothers and sisters and their spouses, James and Diane VanNurden of Stewart, Dale VanNurden of Rockford, Mary Lou and Bob Mobley of Buffalo, David VanNurden of Columbia, MO, Jean and John Brager of Buffalo, Edwin VanNurden of Kimball, Cheryl and Joe Garding of Kimball, Michelle and Tim Kuhn of Kimball, Lori and Glenn Winter of Luxemburg; sister in law, Gayle VanNurden of Kimball.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Craig VanNurden and brother, Richard as an infant.
Mary C. O’Keefe, age 89
St. Cloud
July 3, 1923 – April 23, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 27, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Marty, MN for Mary C. O’Keefe, age 89, who died Tuesday at her home. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at the church prior to mass.
Mary C. Theisen Anderson O’Keefe was born in Watkins to Christ and Elizabeth (Kinzer) Theisen. She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1941. Mary married Roger Anderson and after Roger’s death she married Patrick O’Keefe. She and Patrick owned and operated O’Keefe Petroleum Equipment for 30 years. Mary volunteered for many years at Treasure Chest in Waite Park and Holy Cross Church. She loved living at Grand Lake and being with her family and grandchildren. After retirement Mary and Patrick enjoyed winters in Arizona.
Survivors include her children, Terry (Deborah), Timothy, Mark (Cheryl), Mary (Steve) Radunz, Shawn (Simonne); 7 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Roger and Patrick (2012), and 6 siblings.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Hubert M. Schmitt, age 87
Cold Spring
July 20, 1925 – April 22, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 26, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Hubert Schmitt, age 87, who died Monday at Sterling Park Nursing Home in Waite Park. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the mass in the Church Narthex.
Hubert was born in Cold Spring to Hilary “Larry” and Appolonia (Theisen) Schmitt. He married Darlene Kotschevar on September 2, 1952 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. Hubert and Darlene farmed north of Cold Spring most of their lives. The couple retired and moved to Cold Spring in 1994. He loved farming, fishing, watching wrestling, playing cards and word finds. Hubert was a member of St. Boniface Parish and Catholic United Financial.
Survivors include his loving wife, Darlene; 8 nieces and nephews, Mary Lou Kellner, Wade Kotschevar, Kemp Kotschevar, Janet Alle, Ann Pederson, Jan Lauby, Bryan Kotschevar and Dave Stalberger.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Viola (Marcus) Kellner.
A special thank you to the staffs at Assumption Home and Sterling Park Nursing Homes for the loving care they extended to Hubert.
Bernelda M. Gertken, age 81
Richmond
May 7, 1931 – April 22, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 25, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Bernelda M. Gertken, age 81, who died Monday at Assumption Home. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m. Wednesday (Today) at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Christian Women. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Bernelda was born in St. Cloud, MN to Frank and Clara Mehr. She married Benedict Gertken on September 12, 1949 in St. Martin Catholic Church, St. Martin, MN. Bernelda loved quilting, playing bingo, calling bingo, puzzles, fishing, playing cards, shooting pool, volunteering and snowmobiling on her snowmobile, “Nellie”.
Survivors include her children, Carol (Gary) Chihos, Frank (Deb), Brenda (John) Clemen, Ben Jr. (Sharon); siblings, Cyril (Louise) Mehr, Caroline (Linus) Heinen, Lorraine Bueckers, Melvin (Cathy) Mehr, Susie (Denny) Wurm; daughters-in-law, Cecilia and Sandy; 19 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Benedict; sons, Eddie and Romie.
Math A. Benoit, age 74
St. Cloud
November 4, 1938 – April 17, 2013
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Math A. Benoit Jr. A celebration of his life will be held at the Red River Inn, 318 Main Street in Cold Spring, MN on Friday, April 19th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Math is survived by his eight children, Betty (Glenn) Johnson, Peggy (Doug) Brink, Scott (Shay) Benoit, Doug (Mamiko) Benoit, Kent (Naomi) Billig, Eric Billig, Jamie (Matthew) Popp, and Jenna Benoit, along with 10 grandchildren, Jesse Johnson, Brooke (Dustin) Hesse, Jaren and Hannah Brink, Kristy, Matthew, Stephen, Andrew, and Rachel Benoit, Kallista Billig. Math is also survived by his brother, Art (Joyce) Benoit; sisters, Pearl Grier, Carol Winkleman, Mary Mumm, and Bernice (John) Stang. He is preceded in death by his parents, Math and Olivia Benoit; brother, John Benoit; sister, Jean Naegeli, and grandson, Todd Brink. Math is also survived by his loving companion, Mary and his good friend Sharon Hodel.
Math enjoyed spending time outdoors, animals, and days at the cabin, spending time with friends and family, and his black lab, Duke.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Frank Mehr, age 90
St. Martin
August 27, 1922 – April 16, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Frank Mehr, age 90, who died Tuesday at the Paynesville Hospital. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
A visitation for Frank will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday at the St. Martin Parish Hall. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the parish hall.
Frank was born in Paynesville, MN to Mike and Anna (Schmitz) Mehr. He married Irene Loch on October 9, 1950 in St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Belgrade, MN. Frank was a farmer his entire life. He loved playing cards, dancing, bowling, and watching the MN Twins. He also enjoyed going on trips to the Casino with his kids, visiting with friends, and sharing stories. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Joseph Society, and a polka club.
Survivors include his children, Duane (Diane) of Richmond, Boni (Dave) Heinen of St. Martin, Debi (Roger) Imdieke of Greenwald, Vicki (Chuck) Lahr of St. Cloud, Cyndi Brink (Doug Jackson) of Monticello, Dale (Mishelle) of St. Martin; sister, Ester (Marlyn) Libbesmeier; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Alverna and Ray Welle; 21 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene (2001); sisters, Ida Schaefer, Helen Wieber, Anna Mae Hubert; brothers, John, Jacob, Math, Bernard, and grandson, Donald.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Theresa “Terri” Hemmesch, age 44
Cold Spring
February 6, 1969 – April 15, 2013
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 18, 2013 at River of Life Assembly of God Church in Cold Spring, MN for Theresa “Terri” Hemmesch, age 44, who died surrounded by her family on Monday morning at her home. Burial will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Cemetery in Richmond, MN.
Visitation with family and friends will be from 4:00– 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Terri was born in St. Cloud, MN to Jerry and Rose (Fiala) Searcy. She married Henry (Hank) Hemmesch on July 6, 1991. As an LPN, Terri strived to help others and practiced in the cosmetic field. She loved shopping and watching football especially her favorite team, the Oakland Raiders. Terri was a member of River of Life Assembly of God Church.
Survivors include her husband, Henry; children, Bo, Heather (Dan Illies); parents, Jerry and Rose Searcy; grandfather, Leo Fiala; sibling, Jerry Jr. (Monica) Searcy; one grandchild on the way; in-laws, Cyril and Esther Hemmesch and family.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ethelle Fiala, and Lucille and Donald Searcy.
Thank you to the St. Cloud Hospital Hospice for the kindness, love, and care they gave Terri.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Arnold Thelen, age 79
Willmar
June 25, 1933 – April 14, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Arnold Thelen, age 79, who died Sunday at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the church.
Arnold was born in St. Martin to Anton and Elizabeth (Holthaus) Thelen. He worked for Jennie O for many years and most recently as a greeter at Wal-Mart in Willmar.
Survivors include his son, Chris (Cheryl) Wehseler; longtime friend, Audrey Weir and her son John (Amy); siblings, Ray (Bernie) Thelen, Maddie (Arnie) Wehseler, Ludwina (Ben) Kaiser, and Gertrude Seivert.
He was preceded in death by sisters, Mary Hettwer-Moser and Lorraine Ruprecht.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
MaryAnn Gerding, age 78
Cold Spring
March 20, 1935 – April 14, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for MaryAnn Gerding, age 78, who died Sunday at Assumption Home. Burial will be at Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Cemetery, Richmond.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 16th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Christian Women will pray a rosary at 4:00 p.m. Parish Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Wednesday morning at the St. Boniface Narthex.
MaryAnn was born in Spring Hill to John and Frances (Lieser) Meyer. She married Raymond Gerding on May 3, 1955 in St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Spring Hill, MN. MaryAnn enjoyed crocheting, playing cards, and entertaining. She especially loved to cook and bake for all who came to visit. She was a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church, Christian Women, and the American Legion Auxiliary.
Survivors include her loving husband, Raymond; children, Deb Vogt (Max Monnens), Sherry (Jim) Hartman, Scott (Robyn), Pam Skogland; son-in-law Tucker (Patti) Plantenberg; brother, Leander; sisters-in-law, Isabel and Kathleen Meyer, Lillian Schoenberg, Tillie and Rita Gerding; brother-in-law, Reuben (Valeria) Gerding; 5 grandchildren, Joell and Jenny Vogt, Jenna (fiancé Noah) and Leah Hartman, Beau Gerding; 2 great-grandchildren, Taylor and Mykayla Evens.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Denise Plantenberg and baby; parents; sister, Monica (Dillo) Leukam; brothers, Sylvester and Gerald Meyer; sister-in-law, Alvera Meyer; brothers-in-law, Hank Schoenberg, Elmer (Armela) Gerding, Wilfred and Robert Gerding.
A special thank you to the Assumption Nursing Home and staff for the wonderful care provided to MaryAnn, as well as to Heartland Hospice. Additionally, we would like to thank Fr. Julius Boeckerman, O.S.B., Fr. Bob Rolfes, Fr. Cletus Connors, O.S.B., and Fr. Tim Baltes for their unending spiritual care and support.
Harriet Mehr
, age 89
Richmond
October 31, 1923 – April 13, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Harriet Mehr, age 89, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. The Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women and the Paynesville Daughters of Isabella will pray a rosary at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.
Harriet was born in Terrebonne, MN to Joseph and Emma Ste. Marie. She married Alver Mehr on September 2, 1950 in Terrebonne, MN. Harriet was a teacher who taught in various country schools including, Roscoe, Farming, North of Richmond and West of Roscoe. Harriet and her husband, Alver farmed near Roscoe until 1987. After retiring from farming they moved to Richmond. She enjoyed traveling, baking and especially playing cards. She cherished her time with her friends and family; especially her grandchildren.
Survivors include her children, Doug (Deb) of Burnsville, Diane (Kent) Cashel of Park City, Utah, and Ron (Sheila) of Richmond; sisters, Elise Ste. Marie, Eraine Schmit, Lucy Higgins, and Carole Vammen; one brother, Richard Ste. Marie; sisters-in-law, Louise Korman and Marie Mehr. 7 grandchildren, Katie (Brent) O’Malley, Anne (Kyle) Howie, Jacob Mehr, Robert Cashel, Danielle, Alexis and Kristin Mehr; 1 great-grandchild due shortly.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Alver; one sister, Isabelle Korman; two brothers, Donald and Reaume Ste. Marie; and 1 grandson, Matthew Mehr.
Beatrice “Bea” Noga
, age 99
Grand Marais, formerly of Richmond
January 30, 1914 – April 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 15, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Beatrice “Bea” Noga, age 99, who died Wednesday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Monday morning at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond.
Beatrice was born in Cold Spring to John and Margaret (Jacobs) Ficker. She married Thomas Noga and loved being with her family and all her grandchildren.
Survivors include daughters, Carol (Roy) Gibson, Mary Jo (Mark) Jordan, and Teresa (Dan) Baumann; grandchildren, Sheri Gilliam, Ronda Slade, Brenda Coleman, Cindy Gilliam, Heather and Jennifer Jordan, Zach, Brianna, and Jonathan Baumann; 11 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Bill Ficker, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; daughter, Judy; siblings, Madeline Ruegemer, Marcellus “Lefty”, Wally, and Ronny.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
M
athew “Math” Kaiser, age 82
St. Martin
September 19, 1930 – April 8, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Mathew “Math” Kaiser, age 82, who died Monday at Hennepin County Medical Center. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
A visitation for Math will be from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. Friday at the St Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. The St. Joseph’s Society and the Paynesville Knights of Columbus will pray a rosary at 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the St. Martin Parish Hall.
Math was born in Cold Spring to William and Magdalena (Seifermann) Kaiser. He married Ermalinda Stang on September 2, 1953 in St. Martin. Math took great pride in his farm and family. After retiring he helped his son, Allen, with his landscaping business. Math loved Polka music, his tractors, woodworking, and especially spending time with his family, children, and grandchildren. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Society and Paynesville Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include his children, Mary Kay Pelkey, Gary (Nita), Allen (Dawn), Jim, and Lori Ann (Ron) Olson; son-in-law, Tim Dingmann; brothers and sisters, Sylvester and Bernard Kaiser, Judy (Don) DeWenter, Carol, Al, Edwin, Othmar, and Jerome Kraemer, and Bernadette Schreifels; 13 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ermalinda; sons, Michael and Ron; daughter, Karen; son-in-law, David Pelkey; brothers and sisters, Gebhard, Romuald, Sally, Alcuin, Marie, Cyril, Mary, and Fritz.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Roger “Rex” Bernard, age 88
Cold Spring
August 17, 1924 – April 5, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Roger “Rex” Bernard, age 88, who died Friday at Assumption Home. Inurnment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Mausoleum.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends one hour prior to the services in the Church Narthex.
Rex was born in Wakefield Township to William and Elizabeth (Knaus) Bernard. He lived his entire life in Cold Spring. Rex farmed for 9 years in Cold Spring; worked 7 years at Landy Packing in St. Cloud, and 23 years at Amcon Block Co. in St. Cloud. Rex was a member of the Cold Spring American Legion.
Survivors include his brother, Benedict “Benny” (Jean) Bernard of Richmond, and many nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Leander, Jenny, Gilbert “Buddy”, Roy, Marion, Adeline, Annabel, and Lucille.
A special thank you to the staff at Assumption Home for the kindness and care they gave to Rex.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Norman M. Scherer
, age 82
St. Cloud
November 4th, 1930 ~ April 5, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, April 9th at 10:30 AM at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud for Norman M. Scherer, age 82, of St. Cloud, who died on Friday at the St. Cloud Veterans Administration Medical Center. Rev. Joe Backowski will officiate. Burial will be in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls. Friends may call on Monday between 4:00-8:00 PM at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud and on Tuesday one hour prior to services at the Church. Parish Prayers will be at 6:00 PM.
Norm was born November 4th, 1930 in St. Joseph to Joseph and Marie (Weinand) Scherer. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. He married Eileen Hennen on May 22nd, 1956 at Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Rockville. Norm lived in Central MN his whole life. He was employed as a senior accountant for Stearns County and the State of Minnesota, serving most recently at the Minnesota Correctional Facility. He retired in 1990. Norm was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, St. Joseph Knights of Columbus Council 7057, Moose Lodge 1400, Eagles Aerie # 622, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Fr. Pierz Assembly # 530, Cold Spring Catholic Order of Foresters, Sauk Rapids American Legion Post # 254, Cold Spring Maennerchor, and life member and officer of the St. Cloud Musicians Union.
Norm’s favorite hobbies included golf, celebrating his German Heritage, dancing to old time music, attending Oktoberfests, traveling, hobby farming, and playing in various old time music bands. He was a member of the Merry Makers Band for many years. Norm treasured the time he could spend with family, grandchildren and friends.
Survivors include his loving wife Eileen of 56 years, children, Deborah Simon (Gene) Cold Spring, Dan Scherer (Brenda) St. Joseph, Susan Hinnenkamp (Dale) St. Joseph, 7 grandchildren, Stephanie Spychala (Gary), Jessica Booth (Eric), Stephen Simon (Stephanie), Alisha Simon, Rachael Hinnenkamp (Zack Bialka), Hannah Hinnenkamp and Ben Hinnenkamp, 5 great-grandchildren, Payton and Olivia Spychala, Alayna and Liam Booth and Ella Eileen Simon, brothers and sister, Eldred Scherer, Detroit Lakes, Wilbert “Billy” Scherer , Garrison, Ervin Scherer (Dorothy) St. Cloud, and Doreen Rennie, Waite Park.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Eugene and Marvin, and sister-in-laws, Myra and Betty Scherer.
The family would especially like to thank the staffs at Assumption Campus in Cold Spring, St. Cloud Hospital and St. Cloud Veteran Administration Medical Center for their compassionate care.
March 2013
Larry R. Pallies
, age 75
Cold Spring
December 13, 1937 – March 30, 2013
Larry Roland Pallies died peacefully Saturday at his home surrounded by family. Larry was born in St. Cloud to Loyal and Noraine (Hartfield) Pallies. He married Monica Horwath on June 8, 1963 in St. Mathews Church of Christ in Forest City. Larry served in the U. S. Airforce from January 31, 1955 to March 29, 1958 as a Flight Engineer Mechanic. He worked as a Cement Mason until he retired in 2000. Larry enjoyed anything outdoors; especially, elk hunting in Colorado, fishing on the Chain of Lakes, deer hunting, and coon hunting. He also enjoyed playing cards, football, gambling trips, and he had a love for dogs. Larry was a member of the Cold Spring American Legion.
Survivors include his wife, Monica; children, John (Sherry) of Solon Springs, WI, David (Jody) of Columbia Heights, Don (Lesley) of Cold Spring, Penny Jelen of Cold Spring; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Nancy (Darrel) Hedlund of South Haven, and one godchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Rick; brother, Loyal Jr.; sister-in-law, Phyllis.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Florian M. Noll
, age 89
St. Martin
February 17, 1924 – March 26, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Florian M. Noll, age 89, who died peacefully Tuesday at his home. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery.
A visitation for Florian will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the St Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the services Monday morning at the St. Martin Parish Hall.
Florian was born in Richmond to Peter and Tecla (Gertken) Noll. He married Evangeline Didier on June 10, 1947 in St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. Florian served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee from 1942 – 1946. He was a carpenter and woodworker his whole life.
Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Evangeline; children, Dave (Mary) Noll, Mike (Diane) Noll, Anne (Dale) Lawrence, Jerry (Jan) Noll, Teresa (John) Gossett, Mary (JC) Canton, Barb (Jim) Kastanek, Mark Noll, and Cathy Noll; 26 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, Gerald; parents; brothers, Alcuin and Don.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Evelyn A. Thyen, age 98
Richmond
April 20, 1914 – March 19, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2013 at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Evelyn (Sakry) Thyen, age 98, who died Tuesday. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. in the church gathering space. The Christian Women and Catholic United Financial will pray a rosary at 10:00 a.m.
Survived by her children, Shirley (Ron) Voss, Beverly (Dick) Hennen, Donald (Doris), Rosemary (Gary) Shaffer, Judy Roble, and Tim (Shirley); 16 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren; brothers, Art Sakry, Jack (Marian) Sakry; sisters-in-law, Marge and Zita Sakry; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter; sons, Cloud and Earl; grandson, Brant, and 4 siblings.
Evie loved her faith and family. She enjoyed cooking, fishing, flowers, gardening, and dancing. We will forever miss our beloved Mom, Grandma, and Great-grandma.
In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to Myasthenia Gravis Foundation.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Rose Mary Alexander, age 94
Cold Spring
September 3, 1918 – March 12, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Rose Mary Alexander, age 94, who died Tuesday. Entombment will be in the Alexander Family Mausoleum.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Monday, March 18th at St. Boniface Church in the Marian Chapel. Parish Prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday morning from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m., in the Marian Chapel.
Rose was born in Balta, ND to Rochus and Agnes (Schaan) Eisenzimmer, one of 14 children. After the family moved to Cold Spring, she ran Eisenzimmer’s General Store with her brother Ike. Rose married John Cooper Alexander on May 16, 1945 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. She was a member of St. Boniface Christian Women, VFW Auxiliary, and Lioness.
Rose served on the Board of Directors of Cold Spring Granite Company for over 30 years. She and her husband John, a founder of Cold Spring Granite, fostered the growth of the company within the community and across the United States. She is the mother of Pat Alexander, current chairman and CEO of the company.
Rose was a terrific lady, engaged and active in her church and a benevolent figure in Cold Spring, the community she loved. She was the caring and compassionate head of the Alexander family and she inspired all who knew her. More than anything she loved entertaining family and friends, cooking, laughing, and singing. She was an avid bridge and cribbage player, diarist, and devoted letter writer to family and friends. She cherished being surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her gentle wisdom and influence will be missed by all.
Survivors include her children, Sharon (Tom) Jensen of Roseville, Pat (Bunny) Alexander of Wayzata, Susan (Steve) Thompson of Cold Spring, Rosemarie Rinn of Washington DC, Linda (Nat) Robbins of Hopkins; stepson, Jack (Marilyn) Alexander of Des Moines, WA; brothers, Ralph (Lucille) Blake, Jerome (Betty) Eisenzimmer; sisters, Doris Reitmeier, Claire Scott, and Sally Weber; 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John C. Alexander (1976); parents; brothers, Rochus, Raymond, Ike, Paul, and Edward Eisenzimmer, Rev. J.A. Otto; sisters, Marie Feien and Barbara Berns; brothers-in-law, Linus Weber, Al Scott, Don Berns, and Al Reitmeier; sisters-in-law, Veronica and Ruth Eisenzimmer; son-in-law, Scott Rinn; granddaughter, Gloria Rose Rinn, and great-granddaughter, Jamie Alexander.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Boniface School, Cold Spring Fire and Rescue, and Cold Spring Police Department.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Michael O. Burns, age 75
St. Cloud/Prior Lake
November 20, 1937 – March 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 12:30 p.m., Monday, March 18, 2013 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 1125 11th Ave. N, St. Cloud, MN for Michael O. Burns, age 75, who died peacefully Sunday.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Sunday, March 17th at St. Paul’s Catholic Church. Visitation will continue from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Monday at the church.
Michael was born in St. Cloud to Harry and Mathilda (Ohmann) Burns, the youngest of their seven children. He graduated from St. John’s University and received his law degree from University of Minnesota. Michael settled in St. Cloud to practice law and raise his family with his wife Nancy. In retirement, Mike focused on teaching children how to play cribbage to improve math skills and was a nationally ranked Cribbage Life Master.
Survivors include his children, Jim (Deb), Dan (Margaret), and Tracy (Sandy) McCartney; grandchildren, Lindsay, Susan, Erin, Austin, Hannah, and Sydney; sisters, Margaret (Ed) Lytle, Nancy (Charley) Wenner, Colleen (Roy) Bernick, and Kathleen Tompkins (Larry Kotzer).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Mathilda; brothers, Terry and John; sister-in-law, Mary-Lou, and brothers-in-law, Rich Rawlings, and Alan Tompkins.
Hey you cribbage players in heaven, get ready…
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Hildegard Steil, age 91
Richmond
November 20, 1921 – March 9, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 14, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Hildegard Steil, age 91, who died Saturday at Cherrywood Advanced Living in Richmond, MN. Entombment will be private in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 -8:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the Richmond Christian Women, Catholic Order of Foresters and Catholic United Financial. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Hildegard was born in St. Nicholas, MN to Nicholas and Elizabeth (Jones) Binsfield. She married Gilbert Steil on September 15, 1940 in St. Nicholas Catholic Church in St. Nicholas, MN. Hildegard was a mother and homemaker and loved doting on her 17 grandchildren. She enjoyed quilting, cooking, crafts, gardening, fishing, and donating her time and food to people she cared about. Hildegard was a member of the Richmond Christian Women, Catholic Order of Foresters and Catholic United Financial, and Sts. Peter & Paul Parish.
Survivors include her children, Louise Stommes, Gary (Judith) Steil, Sandy (Eddie) Mackereth, Sharon Trueman, Rhonda (Rod) Green; 17 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert; grandchildren, Scott and Shelley Stommes.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Elizabeth Rose Hemmesch
, age 91
Paynesville
January 30, 1922 ~ March 7, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at 1:00 PM at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville, for Elizabeth Rose Hemmesch, age 91, of Paynesville, who died on Thursday March 7, 2013 at the Koronis Manor in Paynesville. Rev. Glenn Krystosek will officiate. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery. Friends may call on Monday between 4:00-8:00 PM at the Daniel-Anderson Funeral Home in Paynesville and on Tuesday one hour prior to services at the Church. Parish Prayers will be at 6:00 PM.
Elizabeth was born January 30, 1922 in St. Martin Township to Bernard and Anna (Olmscheid) Kollmann. She married Henry A. Hemmesch on September 24, 1940 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. They farmed in rural Lake Henry from 1940-1979, then they retired and moved to Paynesville. She was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church, Christian Women, St. Catherine’s Mission Group, Crosier Apostolates, Catholic Order of Foresters, and Daughters of Isabella.
Elizabeth enjoyed her children, grandchildren and their families. She was well known for her cake decorating talents, along with quilting, flower and vegetable gardening, bowling, and her card playing groups. Elizabeth loved to travel to various destinations; the highlight was her trip to the Vatican in Rome with her sister Anna.
Survivors include her children, Jeanette Lieser (Robert A.) Paynesville; Robert B. Hemmesch (Sandra) Paynesville; Ronald Hemmesch , Sauk Rapids; Henrietta Hemmesch, Rochester; Jarett Hemmesch (Mary Lee) Cold Spring; 15 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, sister-in-laws, Frances Kollmann, Waite Park; Irene Hemmesch, Paynesville; and Gen Hemmesch, Watkins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Henry, April 12, 1988, brothers and sisters, Math Kollmann, Nick Kollmann, John Kollmann, and Bernard Kollmann, Clara Klaphake and Anna Hoppe and great-granddaughter, Stacy Ann Orbeck.
Memorials are preferred to the Koronis Manor, Rose Center, or St. Louis Catholic Church.
The family would especially like to thank the entire staff at the Koronis Manor for their unconditional and professional support for helping Elizabeth cope with her Alzheimer ’s disease. Their compassionate care was a blessing to Elizabeth.
Thomas A. Scott
, age 74
Rockville
March 4, 1939 – March 7, 2013
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2013 at River of Life Assembly of God Church in Cold Spring, MN for Thomas A. Scott, age 74, who died Thursday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the MN State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, MN.
Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
Tom was born in Marshall, MN to Mathew and Eunice (Scott) Rustman. He married Janice J. Fearing on October 21, 1961. Tom served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1959. He was a communication technician for AT&T. Tom enjoyed working with tools, carpentry, landscaping, and plumbing; he was a jack of all trades. He also loved hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, traveling, grilling, and being with his children and grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife Janice; children, Sherri (Steve) Becker, Sheila (Kevin) Ripplinger, Shelly (Jeremy) Mollner, Tom (LeAnn), and Eric (Anjonette); several brothers and sisters, and 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Joan K. Pauls
, age 85
Richmond
September 20, 1927 ~ Sunday, March 3, 2013
Joan K. Pauls, 85 of Richmond, formerly of Watkins, died Sunday, March 3, 2013 at the Paynesville Area Hospital. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in St. Nicholas. Fr. Thomas Olson, Fr. Paul Folsum and Fr. Richard Gross will concelebrate. Casket bearers will be Matthew Pauls, Terry Pauls, Jeffrey Pauls, Glenn Pauls, Don Schneider and Doug Loch. Honorary casket bearers will be Vicki Schneider, Shirley Loch, Karen Pauls, Kathy Pauls, Gail Ransom, Susie Ruegemer and Judy Dingmann. Interment will be in the St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Watkins. Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Ertl Funeral Home in Watkins. Parish rosary will be at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home followed by parish prayers at 6:00 p.m. Friends may also call one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday.
Joan K.Pauls was born on September 20, 1927 at St. Nicholas, Minnesota. She was the daughter of John P. and Rose (Dockendorf) Beckius. Joan was united in marriage to Floyd Pauls on October 30, 1947 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church. They resided in the St. Nicholas area where Joan kept busy as a homemaker, mother and caregiver. She was a member of the Watkins Legion Auxiliary and the Wat-Kim-Valley VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed flowers and gardening.
Joan is survived by her children and their spouses, Matthew Pauls of Sauk Rapids, Vicki and Don Schneider of Watkins, Terry and Kathy Pauls of Watkins, Shirley and Doug Loch of Paynesville, Jeffrey Pauls and special friend, Gail Ransom of St. Nicholas, Glenn Pauls of Watkins; daughter-in-law, Karen Pauls of Kimball; 23 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, John and Diane Beckius of Paynesville; sister, Margie Pauls of Richmond.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John P. and Rose Beckius; husband, Floyd Pauls, Sr.; son, Floyd Pauls, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Judy Pauls; sisters, Viola Lahr, Delores Kilrain, Virgie Steil, LaVern Lahr; brothers, Vern, James, Victor and Larry Beckius.
Lloyd L. Kiess
, age 85
Cold Spring
April 10, 1927 – March 3, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 7, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Lloyd L. Kiess, age 85, who died Sunday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Entombment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Mausoleum.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 6th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Thursday morning at the funeral home.
Lloyd “Ferd” was born in Cold Spring to Aloysius and Marcella (Thelen) Kiess. He served in the U.S. Army and was a member of the Cold Spring American Legion for 66 years. Lloyd worked at Kiess Chevrolet as a car salesman where he received numerous Legion of Leaders awards; he retired in 1998. He enjoyed singing in the choir, hunting, Sunday drives in the country, conversing with all he encountered, and sharing stories with his grandchildren. He was a member of the Cold Spring Fire Department, Maennerchor, and St. Boniface Parish and Adult Choir.
Survivors include his former wife, Margie Kiess; children, Mary Jo (Paul) Morrison, John (Patty), Carol Mueller, Ann Hansen, and Jim; brothers, Notker (Fran), Donald (Mary); sister-in-law, Betty Schwindel; daughter-in-law, Jennifer, and 7 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his children, Robert, and baby Kiess; brother-in-law, Gilbert Schwindel.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Darrell “Bud” Fuecker, age 78
Cold Spring
April 9, 1934 – March 2, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 8, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Darrell “Bud” Fuecker, age 78, who died Saturday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the MN State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, MN.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 7th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m., Friday morning at the funeral home.
Bud was born on a farm in Hawick, MN to Chester and Grace (Ferrier) Fuecker. He graduated from St. Boniface High School in 1952 and immediately went into the U.S. Navy. Bud served 23 years active duty and 7 years in the Navy Fleet Reserve before retiring in 1982 as Masterchief. He served during the Korean and Vietnam War. He then worked at the Cold Spring American Legion as Manager and American Linen Supply Company in St. Cloud, MN as a mechanic before retiring in 1994. Bud married Mercedes Madelo on February 3, 1975 in Manila, Philippines. They had one daughter and two sons together and raised their children in Cold Spring, MN.
Bud was loved by many and enjoyed spending time with his three grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing off his dock, going on the pontoon in the summer or doing crossword puzzles in recent years. He had many great stories about his time in the military. Bud was passionate about the ships he served on, the USS Preston, USS Lofberg, USS Foss, and USS Fletcher before retiring on the USS John R. Craig. He enjoyed getting out of the house and visiting and talking to people when he had the chance. Bud will be missed by many.
Survivors include his wife and best friend of 39 years, Mercy; children, Jackie (Gary) Gertken of Paynesville, Jason Fuecker of Rock Springs, WY, Brian Fuecker of Cold Spring; grandchildren, Derik and Dylan Gertken, and Hunter Fuecker; siblings, twin sister, Carol (Ken) Sykora of Brooklyn Park, Pat (Art) Leistman of Paynesville, Fred (Nancy) of Bloomington, Jean (Leroy) Bie of Newberg, OR, Robert Fuecker of Crystal, and Rick (Cindy) Fuecker of Kimball.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Grace Fuecker.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Feburary 2013
Mark J. Backes
, age 38
Richmond, formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri
May 18, 1974 – February 21, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Mark J. Backes, age 38, who died Thursday as a result of a snowmobile accident in Madeline Island, WI. Burial will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning at the funeral home.
Mark Joseph Backes, son of Ronald and Betty (Hemmesch) Backes, was born in St. Joseph, Missouri on May 18, 1974. He received the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation at Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph, MO where he also was a mass server. He graduated from Central High School in 1992. Was a member of the National Honor Society, played multiple sports every year, and was the sports editor of the school paper his senior year. He loved music, took piano lessons starting at age 5 and then switched to guitar in his teens. He composed a few songs but only for his and his friends’ enjoyment. He also appreciated nature’s lakeside sunsets and snow capped mountains “That’s what it’s all about!”
Mark graduated in 1996 from St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN. After graduation he worked a few months to earn money for his 3 month tour of Europe with three other Johnnies. He was a free spirit who moved around with his job in the restaurant industry; spending ten years in Denver, Co and recently moved to Madeline Island, WI. He enjoyed meeting and learning about new people. No matter where he was he made friends quickly. He had a generous heart whether he knew you or not. Mark enjoyed but also challenged his two older sisters like any younger brother. He loved to play cards with his family and friends. His family will always remember his laugh, his smile and carefree spirit. He will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his parents; two older sisters, Rhonda (Kurt) Loeffelholz and Brenda Backes; nephews, Nickolas and Travis Loeffelholz.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Ambrose and Jeanette Backes, Nicholas and Miranda Hemmesch, and his uncle, Lynn Hemmesch.
A special thank you to the Madeline Island rescue departments and Jay (his boss).
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Frances Minnerath, age 92
Avon
January 30, 1921 – February 21, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Avon, MN for Frances Minnerath, age 92, who died Thursday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the St. Benedict Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Monday, February 25th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Visitation will continue from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Tuesday morning at the church.
Frances was born in Rockville to Joseph and Ann (Strack) Bellmont. She married Roman S. Minnerath on May 8, 1952 in Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Rockville. Frances enjoyed sewing, fishing, gardening, and playing Bingo and Kings Corner. Frances especially loved being with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a member of St. Benedicts Parish and Cold Spring Legion Auxiliary.
Survivors include her daughter, Gail; son, Dean; sister, Caroline Zumwalde; grandchildren, Isaac, Elizabeth, Adam, and Justin Minnerath, and Jason and MissyVanScoik; great-grandchildren, Justin, Jonathan, and Gavin Minnerath, and Alivia, Lilly, and Payton VanScoik.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Roman; granddaughter, Amanda VanScoik; sisters, Carola, Emma, and Bernice; brothers, Aloys, Lawrence, and Leo.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Douglas Garfield Hodel, age 67
Cold Spring
February 10, 1946 – February 20, 2013
Funeral services will be held at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, February 24, 2013 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church on Clearwater Road in St. Cloud for Doug Hodel, age 67, who died Wednesday at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Relatives and friends may call from 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. at the Church on Sunday.
Doug was born on a farm in Albany, MN to Garfield and Viola (Lietz) Hodel. He graduated from Albany High School in 1963 and immediately went into the Air Force. Doug married his first wife, Lois and they later divorced. He had 2 daughters, Kim Wunderlich and Michelle Hodel. Doug married Sharon Mick on April 12, 1986. Together they bought a farm and fulfilled all of their dreams. He was a very passionate person.
Doug was a truck driver and he excelled at it. He really hit his stride when he was hired by the St. Cloud Technical College to teach people how to drive a semi. He drove for Fingerhut, Nash Finch and Stonecrafters. Doug was also passionate about his Herefords and his 2-Cylinder John Deeres. He loved auctions that had John Deeres and had purchased the John Deere of his choice to make farming easier. Doug loved all animals; his dog Jake could be found in his vehicles wherever he went.
Survivors include his wife and best friend, Sharon. They spent many hours just sitting and visiting. They cherished that time together.
He is also survived by his children, Kim (Tommy) Wunderlich, Michelle Hodel; step-children, Betty (Glenn) Johnson and Peggy (Doug) Brink both of Cold Spring, Scott (Shay) Benoit and Doug (Mamiko) Benoit both of Port Orchard, WA; grandchildren, Alissa and Kayla Wunderlich, Jesse Johnson, Brooke (Dustin) Hesse, Jaren Brink, Hannah Brink, Kristy, Matthew, Stephen Benoit, Andrew and Rachel Benoit; brother, Gene (Joyce) Hodel; godson, Eric (Debbie) Hodel.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He was a great conversationalist and storyteller. He will be missed by many.
Fredrick P. Meyer, age 67
Arcadia, FL, formerly of Richmond, MN
March 27, 1945 – January 22, 2013
A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN for Fredrick P. Meyer, age 67, who died as a result of a heart attack.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Inurnment will be in the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Mausoleum.
Fredrick was born in Richmond, MN to Leander J. and Regina (Theis) Meyer. He was a graduate of Eden Valley High School and served in the Army Reserve. Fredrick retired in July of 2012 with high respect from his employers and coworkers after working in the sewer and water line industry for more than 40 years. He enjoyed horses, hunting, music, and was a lifetime member of the NRA.
Survivors include his daughter, Julie (Leon) Fuchs; granddaughter, Sarah Bastin; siblings, Lawrence (Kathy) Meyer, Maynard (Chicky) Meyer, Maxine (Leonard) Nowacki, Janet Schneider, Ione (Bunny) Sand, David (Linda) Meyer, Grace (Bob) Klaphake, Tom Meyer, and Teri (Gerry) Schmit.
He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel; parents; sister, Gloria Meyer, and niece, Amy Goerger.
Renee Hildagard Ressemann, age 78
Cold Spring
September 19, 1934 – February 12, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 15, 2013 at St. John’s Abbey and University Church in Collegeville, MN for Renee Hildagard Ressemann, age 78, who died Tuesday peacefully at her home, with her family at her side. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. Thursday, at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 8:00 – 9:15 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.
Renee was born in Cold Spring to Peter and Elizabeth (Schmitt) Minnerath. She married Anthony Bernard Ressemann on July 1, 1954 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring. Renee worked at St. John’s and various restaurants. She later worked at Electrolux for 30+ years. Renee’s greatest love was dancing with her husband Tony. She also had a great love of gardening, canning, crafting, and embroidering. Renee treasured all the special times she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were so precious to her. After retiring she truly enjoyed watching the various birds, especially the humming birds out of her dining room window.
Survivors include her children, Tim (Sue) Ressemann of St. Anna, Sandra Ressemann of St. Cloud, Walter (Nancy) Ressemann of Swanville, Gloria Kiley of Cold Spring, and Robert (Diane) Ressemann of Cadott, WI; sister, Elizabeth Zwack; brother, Alfred Minnerath; 10 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony; parents; sisters, Pauline Bauer, Marie Minnerath, Christine Minnerath, and Celine Hansen; brothers, Roman Minnerath, Larry Minnerath, Daniel Minnerath, and Jerome Minnerath.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN.
Darrin J. Schaefer, age 44
St. Martin
September 27, 1968 – February 10, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 16, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Darrin J. Schaefer, age 44, who died Sunday as a result of injuries due to an auto accident. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. Friday at the St. Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Catholic United Financial will pray a rosary at 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the St. Martin Parish Hall.
Darrin was born in Melrose to Roman and LuAnn (Wensmann) Schaefer. He worked with his brother Keith on the family farm, Evergreen Acres Dairy, rural St. Martin. Darrin enjoyed life to the fullest, riding his Harley motorcycle, fishing, traveling, working on the farm, and spending time with friends and family, and also his nieces and nephew. He was a member of St. Martin Parish, St. Martin Fire & Rescue, and Catholic United Financial.
Survivors include his parents; siblings, Keith (Pat), Michelle (Dale) Schoenberg, Stacy (Jesse) Kampsen; nieces and nephew, Megan, Kayla, Sara, and Abby Schaefer, Taylor and Ellie Schoenberg, and Brady and Brooke Kampsen.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN
Patrick David Kearin, age 68
Cold Spring
February 15, 1944 – February 8, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 14, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Patrick David Kearin, age 68, who died Friday at his home surrounded by his loving family. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Thursday morning at the St. Boniface Church Nathex.
Patrick was born in Madison, SD to Sylvester “Sid” and Elaine (Mulvihill) Kearin. He married Judy Amert on March 30, 1963 at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Madison, SD. Pat graduated from General Beadle College in 1966 and earned a Masters Degree from St. Cloud State University. He was a high school teacher in Milan, MN, and at Rocori until 1979. Pat worked at Stearns County until 1985; Key Computers until 1998; and taught at St. Cloud Technical College until his retirement in 2006. He was a Rocori Junior High wrestling coach and scout leader. Pat enjoyed woodworking, genealogy, playing golf, cards and was active in St. Boniface Church.
Survivors include his loving wife, Judy; son, Mark and Martha Kearin from Owatonna, MN; daughter, Kimberly and Dave Hamann from Avon, MN; son-in-law, Mike Garceau from Foley, MN; grandchildren, Benjamin and Kaitlyn Hamann, Jacob and Joe Kearin, John and Nathan Garceau; mother, Elaine Kearin from Madison, SD; sister, Cheryl and Tom Warren from Alexandria, MN; brothers Denny and Donna Kearin and Mike and Connie Kearin both from Madison, SD; 13 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Garceau, father, Sid Kearin; and a niece, Darcie Alfson.
Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.
Rita Ludwig, age 87
Cold Spring
November 6, 1925 – February 7, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Rita Ludwig, age 87, who died Thursday at the Hilltop Health Care Center. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Monday (TODAY), at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m., followed by a rosary with the St. Boniface Christian Women. Visitation will continue from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., Tuesday afternoon at the funeral home in Richmond.
Rita was born in Cold Spring to Theodore and Ottilia (Krier) Schreifels. She married Leander Ludwig on March 4, 1946 in St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cold Spring, MN. Rita was a homemaker who loved to make cookies for her grandchildren. She enjoyed playing cards, fishing, and flowers in her home. She was a member of St. Boniface Christian Women.
Survivors include her children, John (Sandi) Ludwig, Sharon (Tom) Steil, Paul (Trish) Ludwig, Judy (Terry) Czech, Bob (Julie) Ludwig; sister, Marie (Jerome) Roeser; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leander; parents; grandson, Joseph Ludwig; brothers, Ted, Father Ferdinand; sisters, Theresa Menke, Mathilda Huberty, Rose Kraemer, Marcella Schreifels, Clara Huberty, Barbara Nistler.
The family would like to thank the staff at John Paul Apartments, Assumption Home, Hilltop Health Care Center, and Rice Hospice.
Raymond M. Spoden, age 91
Cold Spring
September 1, 1921 – February 6, 2012
Raymond Martin Spoden, age 91, quietly died at home in Cold Spring the evening of February 06, 2013.
Ray was a lifelong residence of Cold Spring. He was born to Joseph and Winifred (Fink) Spoden on Sept. 01, 1921, on their farm just east of Cold Spring. He served under General Patton in the 95th Army Division during World War II. He was in the Battle of the Bulge and drove for the Red Ball Express. Ray married Bernice Evelyn Linder on March 08, 1943 at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. This was during the war on a three day leave, before the 95th Division left for Europe. On returning from the war he began work for the Cold Spring Granite Company. Ray was a stone cutter until he retired. He and Bernice were active in square dancing and ballroom dancing. Ray had a love for gardening, with large gardens both at home and for years on his father’s farm. He was still a farmer at heart. He was a long standing member of the American Legion, the VFW, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles. He recently received recognition as a 75 year member of the Catholic Order of the Foresters. He was an active member of St. Boniface Parish in Cold Spring.
Ray is survived by his five daughters, Sandra (Michael) McLaughlin of Phoenix, Arizona, Virginia Sakas of Phoenix, Arizona, Carol (John) Anderson of St. Joseph, Marian (Gerald) Mulligan of Marshfield, Wisconsin, and Kathleen of Cold Spring; five brothers, Mark, Clarence, and Al of Cold Spring, Joseph of St. Paul, and Harry of Brooklyn Center; one sister, Rose Pfannenstein of St. Cloud; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
He is preceded in death by his wife; parents, and one brother, Arthur.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, Minnesota. Entombment will be in the St. Boniface Parish Mausoleum.
A visitation for Ray will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m., followed by a rosary with Catholic Order of Foresters. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning in the St. Boniface Church Narthex.
The family would like to thank the first responders, law enforcement, and all who assisted at Ray’s home.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Jerome “Jerry” Frank, age 87
Cold Spring
September 11, 1925 – January 31, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, Februay 4, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Jerome “Jerry” Frank, age 87, who died Thursday at home surrounded by family. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., Sunday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 3:45 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m., Monday morning at the St. Boniface Narthex.
Jerry was born in St. Nicholas, MN to Peter and Louise (Wolf). He married Evelyn Vogel on June 9, 1949 in St. Mary’s Cathedral in St. Cloud, MN. Jerry and Evelyn were married for over 63 years and raised 10 children together. Most of their lives were spent together at their home on Knaus Lake. He worked in the automotive industry for over 40 years, most of this time he worked as the General Manager/Salesman for Baston/Gilleland Chevrolet. Jerry’s passions included deer hunting, fishing, gardening, and fixing things.
Survivors include his loving wife, Evelyn; children, Roman “Butch”, Carol Engelman, Mary (Dan) Witzman, Deb (Tom) Harren, Bob (Bunny), Roger (Betty), Karen Hanrahan, Paul (Heather); siblings, Lorraine Schmitz, and Melvin (Delphine); sister-in-law, MaryAnn Frank; 23 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his children, LeRoy and Barbara; siblings, Wilfred, Urban (Lucielle), and brother-in-law, Ervin Schmitz.
The family would like to give St. Cloud Hospital Hospice a special thank you for their wonderful care.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
January 2013
Mary E. Edwards, age 62
Rockville
August 5, 1950 – January 27, 2013
Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 1, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN for Mary E. Edwards, age 62, who died Sunday surrounded by her family.
Relatives and friends may gather from 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the memorial service.
Mary was born in Minneapolis, MN to Samuel and Frances (Olson) Edwards. She loved being with her family, especially the time with her grandchildren. Mary enjoyed the outdoors and sunsets at the lake. She had a magnetic spiritual personality always drawing people to herself.
Survivors include her significant other, Joseph Cox; children, Tracy (Tony) Bilinski, Troy (Kathleen) Waldren, Christine (Scott Strempke) Waldren, Vicky Bishop, and Jodi Schiefelbein; brother, Clyde Edwards; 13 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Wiley Edwards.
Lois Mae Haag, age 78
Cold Spring
November 28, 1934 – January 22, 2013
Funeral services celebrating the life of Lois M. Haag will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 25, 2013 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cold Spring. Lois passed away peacefully at her home Tuesday morning surrounded by loved ones. There will be a visitation for family and friends from 5:30-8:30 PM on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cold Spring, with a prayer service at 8pm. Arrangements are being made with Miller-Carlin Funeral Home, Saint Cloud.
Lois was born on November 28, 1934 to Wenzel and Elizabeth (Cady) Koenig in Morgan, MN. She married Reuben Haag on October 6, 1950 in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Eden Valley, MN. Together they raised 5 children and have been blessed by many grandchildren. Lois enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family.
Survivors include her children Janet, David (Jeanne), Randy (Mary), Greg (Pam), and Kevin; her 9 grandchildren; her 17 great grandchildren; her sisters Ruth, Gerri, Sharon; and her brother Wenzel.
She was preceded in death by her husband Reuben in 2004; her parents Wenzel and Elizabeth Koenig; and 11 siblings.
Cecelia “Cele” Silvers, age 86
Richmond
June 10, 1926 – January 20, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 25, 2013 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Richmond, MN for Cele Silvers, age 86, who died Sunday at St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond. Parish Prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women and Catholic United Financial. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Friday morning at the funeral home.
Cele was born in Richmond, MN to Jacob and Catherine (Braegelmann) Schlangen. She married Raymond Silvers on August 30, 1949 in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Richmond. Cele enjoyed quilting, sewing, playing cards, dancing, and reading. She also liked to cook and bake and was famous for her home made bread. Cele loved spending time with family. She was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Christian Women and Catholic United Financial. She was active in MCCL and Koinonia, and spent numerous hours doing volunteer work for the missions, the community, and the parish.
Survivors include her children, Carol (Jerry Daniels), Jerry (Sylvia Hammer), Judy (Jonathan Claypool), Mary (Michael MacCheyne), Jim, Marge, Larry (Candy Minor), Shirl (John Lamoureux), Joe (Michelle Schwartz), Bea (Jeff Wicker), Dotty (Michael Mockenhaupt), Rick (Susan O’Brien); 28 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray (2010); parents, and siblings, Sr. Florentine, O.S.B., Paul, Ludwina, Sr. Wilma, O.S.B., Ray, Sr. Lucille, O.S.B., Cyrilla, Ben, and Theresa.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Darlene “Blondie” Kuhl, Age 82
St. Martin
November 25, 1930 - January 20, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 26, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Darlene “Blondie” M. Kuhl, age 82, who died Sunday morning at Pine Villa Nursing Home, Melrose, MN. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:30 p.m. Friday at the St. Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with the St. Martin Christian Women and Catholic United Financial. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the parish hall.
Darlene Mary was born in New Munich, MN to Herman and Veronica (Torborg) Behnen on November 25, 1930. She grew up in New Munich, MN and attended school in New Munich until the 8th grade. To help out the family, she never went to high school and began work as a home aid for young mothers in the New Munich area when they first had their babies. She and her sister Carol later went to work in a local canning factory and helped bring home money to support the family farm.
Blondie married Hugo “Hooky” J. Kuhl on June 27, 1950 in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Munich, MN. They were happily married for 57 years. Once her own kids were in school she went to work for Chick’s Supper Club in Melrose for many years as a cook. Throughout her working years, preparing and serving food was her specialty. Blondie was a member of St. Martin Christian Women and Parish, and Catholic United Financial. She enjoyed cooking, baking, canning fruits and vegetables, playing cards and bingo, embroidering dish towels, quilting, traveling, bowling, making rag rugs, and garage sales. Her dill pickles were legendary.
Survivors include her children, Ken (Dawn) of North Granby, CT, Dennis (Sheila) of Wilsall, MT, Rick (Barb) of Bloomington, Charlie of White Bear Lake (friend, Debbi Dusik), Jeanne (Kent) Engebretson of Starbuck, and Kathi (Shane) Meisner of Leonardtown, MD; brother and sisters, Melvin (Bernice) Behnen, Bertie Lou (Sylvester) Gruber, Leora Fenech, Alice (Red) Bennett, Carol (Vern) Linz, Teresa Drone, and Ronny Kunstleben; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law; Matthew (Sharon) Kuhl, Sr. Rita Kuhl, O.S.F., and Bernelda Kuhl; 7 grandchildren, Phil (Heather) Kuhl, Emily (Tom) Filburn, Lillian Kuhl, Garrett Engebretson, Forrest Csuy, Erica Csuy, Jordan Kuhl; 8 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hugo “Hooky”; infant son, Thomas Mark; and brother, Herman Behnen, Jr.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Pine Villa Nursing Home and Albany Hospice Care for the wonderful care they gave Blondie.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN.
Viola Dingmann, age 85
Paynesville
January 24, 1927 – January 15, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 19, 2013 at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Roscoe, MN for Viola Dingmann, age 85, who died Tuesday at the St. Cloud Hospital. Burial will be in the St. Agnes Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call after 4:00 p.m. Friday at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. The St. Agnes Christian Women and St. John Neiman Mission Group will pray a rosary at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the funeral home.
Viola was born at home in St. Martin, MN to Frank and Emilia (Athmann) Stang. She married Alfred Dingmann on October 9, 1946 in St. Martin Catholic Church, St. Martin. She worked beside Alfred on the farm while raising their children. Once the children were grown, she worked at the Paynesville Hospital in the kitchen and as the religious Ed. Coordinator and Choir Director at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Roscoe. Viola had a great faith in God. She loved to quilt and embroider. Over the years she made a quilt for everyone of her grandchildren. She also made rosaries which she gave to her children, many of her grandchildren, and the missions. Viola was active in St. John Neiman Mission Group, St. Agnes Christian Women, and Perpetual Hour of Adoration.
Survivors include her children, Tom (Deb) of St. Cloud, Vernice (Terry) Mattson of St. Cloud, Marilyn Blonigen of Paynesville, Helen (Ken) Winkelmann of Sauk Rapids, Frank (Jeanette) of Royalton, John (Sue) of St. Cloud, Sue (Lloyd) Linz of Richmond, Judy (Steve) Gertken of Cold Spring, Pete (Sue) of St. Martin, George (Jan) of Cold Spring, Betty (Art) Hommerding of Cold Spring, Marcy (Ron) Thompson of Paynesville, Anita (Daryl) Reicks of Onawa, IA, and Brian of Paynesville; son-in-law, Don (Barb) Saxton of Sioux Falls, SD; sisters, Amanda Schlangen of Richmond, and Imelda Stang of Sauk Rapids; sisters-in-law, Bonnie Stang of Red Wing, Irene Schneider of St. Cloud, Eileen Dingmann and Mildred Dingmann of Richmond; 39 grandchildren, and 40 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alfred; daughter, Ann; brothers, Edgar and Ben; sisters, Josephine Stang, Agnes Simon, Sr. Anrico Stang, and Alma Dingmann; brothers-in-law, Richard Simon, Ben Schlangen, Leander Dingmann, William Dingmann, Albert Dingmann, Raymond Dingmann, Joe Dingmann, Paul Dingmann and Ervin Dingmann; sisters-in-law, Theresa Dingmann, Dorothy Dingmann, Sr. Virginia Dingmann, Marie Dingmann, and Frances Kohnen.
Arrangements are with the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, Minnesota.
Ronald Berge, age 71
Cold Spring, passed away on January 14, 2013.
He is survived by companion, Deanna Berge; his son, Ron (Jodi) Berge; daughter, Laurie (John) Gandrud; siblings, Karol (Tom) Jesse, Claudia Hanson, and Clyde Berge; grandchildren, Josh and Tyler Berge, and Nicole and Justin Gandrud.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. January18, 2013 at Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka, MN. Visitation will be one hour prior to service.
Michael Lockhart, age 34
Richmond
October 31, 1978 – January 13, 2013
Funeral Services will be 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 18, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Richmond, MN for Michael Lockhart, age 34, who died Sunday at his home.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at the funeral home prior to the memorial service.
Mike was born in St. Paul, MN to Rick and Wendy (Petter) Lockhart. He married Alyssa Schaaf on July 9, 2011 at the Schaaf’s lake home in Richmond, MN. Mike worked as an account Service Manager at Menards. He was a volunteer fire fighter and Captain for Chain of Lakes Fire and Rescue.
Survivors include his wife, Alyssa; son, Aidan; parents, Rick (Kathy) Lockhart, Wendy Lockhart; grandparents, Ron and Nancy Lockhart, Diane Petter; parents-in-law, Jim and Deb Schaaf; sister-in-law, Sadie Holthaus; brother-in-law, Dean Holthaus; 2 nephews, and several extended family.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Wilbur Petter, and brother, Tom Lockhart.
Maxine W. Ohnstad, age 95
St. Cloud
October 6, 1917 – January 12, 2013
Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 17, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN for Maxine W. Ohnstad, age 95, who died Saturday at Skylight Gardens in St. Cloud. Burial will be in the Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends one hour prior to the services at the funeral home.
Maxine was born in Buffalo, MN to Franklin and Hattie (Knutson) Congdon. Maxine helped with the blood drives at the American Legion in Richfield and after moving to their home on Pearl Lake she volunteered at the St. Cloud V.A. Medical Center for many years.
Survivors include her son, Dennis (Riva) Hansen; grandchildren, Christine, Marni, and Amanda, and 6 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ort, and sons, George, and Richard.
Joseph J. Johnston, age 87
Cold Spring
March 23, 1925 – January 8, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 12, 2013 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring, MN for Joseph J. Johnston, age 87, who died Tuesday, peacefully with family by his side. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Parish Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 11th at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring. Parish Prayers will be at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Saturday morning at the funeral home.
Joe was born in Eden Lake Township to Alfred and Florentine (Vetsch) Johnston. Joe served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and married Vivian O’Brien on January 17, 1948 in St. Paul. He was a volunteer fireman in Woodbury for 25 years and worked as a truck driver for the St. Paul Pioneer Press. After retirement Joe and Vivian moved to Cold Spring. He loved fishing, family, dancing, playing cards, and trying to get a rise out of others. He was a member of Cold Spring American Legion, Catholic United Financial, and St. Boniface Parish.
Survivors include his children, Suzanne (Terry), Marcia, Stephen (Linda), Cheryl (Randy), Patricia (Scott), Jolene, Lori (Ed); sister, Dolores (Jack) Bell; 14 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren, and many more relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by wife, Vivian; brothers, Clarence, Ambrose, Bill, Francis, Clem, Gerald, Virgil, and Robert; sisters, Leona Schloesser, Cecelia Schiff, Vera Phillips, and Rosemary Lorenz.
The family would like to express their gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for the excellent care Joe received from St. Croix Hospice and the Assumption Community.
Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Cold Spring.
Eric J. Thomes, age 31
Cold Spring
May 12, 1981 – January 2, 2013
There will be a gathering of relatives and friends from 4:00 – 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at the Wenner Funeral Home in Cold Spring, MN for Eric J. Thomes, age 31, who died Wednesday. Inurnment will be at a later date.
Eric was born in St. Cloud, MN to Joe and Deb (Theel) Thomes. He was a 1999 graduate of Rocori High School. While in high school, Eric participated in the RHS Drumline and later became a member of the Kracker Jacks. Eric was an avid hockey fan. He enjoyed watching the MN Wild, playing pickup games, and especially enjoyed coaching his sons’ team. He was a lifelong fan of NHRA drag racing, never missing an event at BIR in Brainerd. He was active as a Boy Scout throughout his youth and later was able to share his knowledge as a Boy Scout leader for his sons’ troop. Eric was a welder and long time member of Laborers Union 563. He traveled extensively throughout the Midwest working on different projects with the union. He also spent several years in the St. Louis, MO area supervising his own crew, making many memories and friends there.
Survivors include his sons, Joey and Eddie Thomes, their mother, Nicole Zenk; parents, Joe and Deb Thomes; brother, Jeremy Thomes; sister, Stephanie Thomes (Jason Brix); grandparents, Gertrude Thomes, Fay and Eileen Theel; niece, Olivia Thomes; special friend, Sarah Roberts (Rylee and Hayden Roberts), and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Joseph Thomes Sr.; uncle, Jerry Thomes, and cousin, Dan Erkens.
Robert C. Lauer, age 88
Paynesville
January 6, 1924 – January 1, 2013
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 5, 2013 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, MN for Robert C. Lauer, age 88, who died Tuesday at the Paynesville Hospital. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 – 8:30 p.m. Friday at the St. Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be at 4:00 p.m. followed by a rosary with Knights of Columbus. Visitation will continue from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the St. Martin Parish Hall.
Bob was born in St. Martin, MN to Leonard and Lydia (Backes) Lauer. He married Margaret Meyer on October 29, 1945 in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, MN. He was a farmer and founder of the Bobby Roberts Band. Bob loved music, especially playing the clarinet and saxophone. He liked playing cards, fishing, and watching the MN Twins and Nascar racing. He also enjoyed watching turkeys and deer from his window. Bob was a member of Knights of Columbus, Catholic United Financial, and St. Martin Parish.
Survivors include his children, Mary (Wayne) Hagen of Belgrade, Chuck (Jan) of Cold Spring, Randy (Mary) of St. Martin, Janel Wiser of St. Joseph, and Patty Lauer- Roberts (David) of St. Paul; siblings, Arnold, Linus, and Ruth Tripplet; 13 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret (August 15, 2000); parents, and sisters, Tarsella and Marion.
Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Richmond, MN.