Other Obituaries

Area Residents, Former Co-Workers, Friends of Class

2023-01-09 Mann, James M

James M Mann 1941-2023

JAMES MANN, age 81, of Mankato formerly of Waseca, died on Monday, January 9, 2023, at his home.

Born on February 25, 1941, in Mandan, North Dakota to John and Elizabeth (Klein) Mann. He attended Church of St. Joseph Catholic Grade School and graduated from Mandan High School with the class of 1959. Jim enlisted into the United States Marine Corp in 1959 and was honorably discharged in 1963. On January 3, 1961, James was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Diane Berger at Church of St. Joseph in Mandan. Jim and Diane began their married life in Hawaii while Jim was serving in the Marines. Following his honorable discharge, they moved home to Mandan for a short time before moving to Mound and later Lakeville. In 1970 Jim and Diane made Waseca their home.

Throughout Jim’s working career he worked in the lumber industry. Mainly he worked for ALM Builders. His working relationship with ALM allowed him to start his own construction company “JTD Contracting” working alongside his son. This adventure led him to various projects, including working on the remodel/restoration at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca and helping build a home for his granddaughter. Jim never wanted to retire but due to his health he retired at the age of 78. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, he also enjoyed reading books and following his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. Above all else, Jim’s family meant the world to him, he was a devoted husband, father, and papa.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Diane; daughter, Sherri Ulfers of Mankato; grandchildren: Amanda (Austin) Link, Lexie (Tate) Neubauer, Cody (Sarah) Ulfers, and Ty Mann (Isabella Hernandez); great grandchildren: Trey and Hallie Link; sister, Mary Kay Mann of Mandan; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents; son, Todd Mann; great grandson, Landon Link; and eight siblings.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 12, 2022, at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:30 PM on Friday, January 13, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. Interment will be in Woodville Cemetery.

2022-11-03 Armstrong, Wendell J

Wendell J Armstrong 1940-2022

WENDELL JOSEPH ARMSTRONG, age 82 of Waseca, died unexpectedly following a short battle with cancer on Thursday, November 3, 2022, at his home.

Born on July 22, 1940, in Waseca to Benjamin and Agnes (Root) Armstrong. Wendell received his education at Waldorf Public School, graduating with the class of 1958. In 1961, he enlisted into the Army National Guard where he served for 6 years. On August 1, 1964, Wendell was united in marriage to Ruth Ann Swenson at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Waldorf. Together they made their home on the farm in Wilton Township, Waseca County while raising a family of five children. Wendell and Ruth continued to live on the farm up until this past year when they moved into town.

Wendell was lifelong farmer, tending to his crops and various livestock. Some of the livestock he raised over the years included: geese, pheasants, chickens, sheep, cattle, and hogs. As the years went on and the children finished 4-H, he mainly raised hogs. In the early 2000’s Wendell decided to retire and rent out his farm. But as farmers often do, he continued to help on the farm with the Lewer Family for many years. Wendell was also active with his community, serving as a County Commissioner for 10 years, a member of the Waseca School Board, and various Coop Boards. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Eagles Club where he was a past officer, and the Waseca American Legion Post 228. Wendell was active with Sacred Heart Catholic Church where he lectured and served as a communion distributor for many years. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, attending his children’s sporting events and activities, and wintering in Florida with Ruth. Wendell is remembered for his great sense of humor, Wendellisms and his ability to make people laugh. Blessed be his memory

Wendell is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth; children: Richard (Dulcie) Armstrong of Stockbridge, GA, Sherene (Joseph) Holmquist of Cologne, Jon (Angeline) Armstrong of St. Cloud, Janene (Rob) Reding of Traverse City, MI, Ann (Chad) Fritz of Salt Lake City, UT; 12 grandchildren: T.J. (Ali) Peterson, Katelyn (Jake) Schultz, Megan Peterson, Sarah Marchant, Daniel Armstrong, Carter Fritz, Chloe Fritz, Olivia Reding, Abigail Reding, Alexandra Stanczyk, Leah Symanietz, and Brian Symanietz; two great grandchildren: Catherine Marchant and Isaac Varner; sister-in-law, Lorenza Armstong; nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.

Preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Russ and Alice Swenson; brother, Wayne Armstrong; sister, Mavis (Bob) Wheelock.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Monday, November 7, 2022 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 PM on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca with Fr. The Hoang as celebrant. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Waseca.

Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Education Endowment Fund or Waseca Area Food Shelf.

2022-09-26 Lutgens, Ilona

Ilona Lutgens 1944-2022

ILONA “ILI” LUTGENS, age 78 of Waseca, passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022.

Born in Hungary on April 17, 1944, Ilona was the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Kollath. Her family immigrated to the United States when Ili was 12 years old, and together they all settled in Minneapolis. She attended St. Margaret’s Catholic School before attending business school. Ili was married to Larry Dukes, they had two girls, and ran Dairy Queen (1980-1992) before their divorce. On September 21, 1996 she was united in marriage to Larry Lutgens in Waseca. Ilona was a fantastic cook and baker, and Larry believes she could have worked in any kitchen, in any restaurant, anywhere. She continues to be greatly loved and will be sorely missed.

Ilona is survived by her husband, Larry Lutgens of Waseca; two daughters, Lisa Dukes of Minneapolis and Aimie Dukes of Waikiki, HI; one brother, Arpad Kollath; and other special family members on both her and Larry’s side of their family. She was preceded in death by both of her parents.

No public services are being planned at this time.

2022-09-04 Steffan, Willard H H

Willard H H Steffan 1924-2022

Willard “Bill” Herman Henry Steffan, age 97 of Waseca, passed away September 4, 2022 at Pathstone Living in Mankato, Minnesota.

Born on October 19, 1924 in Theresa, Wisconsin, Bill was the youngest child of Heinrich Friedrich Johannes Steffan and Martha Theresa Caroline (Huettner) Steffan. Growing up in a traditional German speaking home, Bill wasn’t introduced to English until he started country school. He shared many stories about the hardships of growing up on the farm and working on his dad’s milk route.

Bill was confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mayville, Wisconsin.

While attending Mayville High School he met his future wife, Dorothy “Dot” Thiel. At 142 pounds Bill played guard on the defense and tackle on the offense for Mayville’s football team. After graduating in 1944, Bill attended Milwaukee State University during the summer, then enlisted in the Army late summer. He served in the Army until February 1945 when he was discharged to work on the family farm due to his father’s illness.

In 1946 Bill enrolled in the State Teacher’s College in Platteville, Wisconsin. He thought he might have a chance to play football if he went to a smaller college until he saw the size of the other players. Dot joined him at the college and they were married on June 7, 1947 at Dot’s family home. Bill graduated in 1949 with a major in Agriculture Education.

Bill’s first job after graduation was with Case Implements in Moline, Illinois.

They moved to Algona, Iowa in 1952 where Bill was hired to be the assisted plant manager for Pioneer Hy-Bred Seed Corn. While living in Algona Bill was active in Lions Club, a member of First Lutheran Church, on the Church Council, Algona City Council and a flying club. Bill owned half interest in an airplane.

1964 found them on the move again to Waseca, Minnesota. Bill started the new agronomy department for Pioneer. Although he spent hours on the road covering several states, Bill was active in the community. He was on the Agricultural Industries to Services Committee for the University of Minnesota Technical College in Waseca, on the Waseca School Board, Rotary Club member and the founder of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in Waseca. Eventually he was on the state board of FCA. Bill was a life-long member of the Grace Lutheran Church and on the Church Council.

In 1980 Bill and Dot started Viking Woodcrafts, Inc., a distributor of arts and crafts supplies. They started with a 12-page catalog. In 1986 Bill left Pioneer to concentrate on Viking Woodcrafts. In 1988 Viking Folk Art Publications was formed to publish decorative painting books that were sold worldwide.

In 1990 the Waseca Chamber of Commerce honored Viking Woodcrafts as Business of the Year.

Because of the growth of both companies, Viking Woodcrafts was sold in 1992. At that time Viking had grown to 40 employees and a 400-page catalog.

In 2000 Bill was awarded the Priscilla Hauser Award for Business and Industry by the Decorative Painting Industry for his ethics in business.

Dot passed away in 1995. A few years later a decorative painter named Megumi Takada introduced Bill to her beautiful painting and Viking Folk Art Publications published a book for her. Soon the dating started. Bill and Megumi were married in Waseca on September 2, 2000.

Bill loved spending time with his family, camping, sports and politics. He had a passion for traveling and was always planning his next big adventure. He traveled to all 50 states, to Japan at least 19 times, most Canadian providences and 27 other countries from Argentina and Scotland to Okinawa and China.

Bill is survived by his wife, Megumi; children, Janet (Larry) Draheim, Mark (Becky) Steffan, Nancy (Brian) Corn and Chihiro Takada; 8 grandchildren: Scott (Dani) Draheim, Ellen (George) Aqua, Cami (Kevin) McCallum, John (Jaci) Steffan, Michael (Elizabeth) Steffan, Abigail (Brad) Gingles, Alyssa Takada and Reina Takada; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dorothy; sister, Alice (Anthony) Stommel; and brother, Sylvester (Evelyn) Steffan.

Services for Bill are pending.

2022-06-11 Meyer, Inez L

Inez L Meyer 1922-2022

INEZ LOUISE MEYER, age 100 of Waseca died on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Lake Shore Inn in Waseca.

Born on March 20, 1922, in Waterville, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Henry and Emma (Hiller) Stoering. She was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterville. Inez graduated from Waterville High School in 1939. She then attended Mankato Commercial College and began her working career in the office of Bachman Produce Co. On June 26, 1946, Inez was united in marriage to Melvin Meyer at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterville. In 1954, they bought their farm in Waseca County where they raised two children, Jane and Brian. Inez began working for Sievert’s Jewelers and worked there for 21 years. After retirement, Melvin and Inez spent their winters in Arizona where they enjoyed square dancing, playing cards, and traveling. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and volunteering at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca where she was a long-time member.

She is survived by one son, Brian (Wei) Meyer of Waseca; grandchildren: Donna Cole and Jeff Cole; niece, Karen (Barry) Reindl.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Jane Cole; brother and sister-in-law, Gene (Virginia) Stoering.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca. Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or the donor’s choice.

2022-05-30 Fischer, Larry G

Larry G Fischer 1945-2022

LARRY GEORGE FISCHER, age 77, of Waseca, died on Monday, May 30, 2022, at his home.

Born on April 21, 1945, in Manning, Iowa to George and Hilda (Hansen) Fischer. Larry grew up as a small-town Iowa boy. He spent his childhood summers on Aunt Lilly and Uncle Alfred’s farm which shaped so much of what he became. Larry attended Manning Public School, graduating with the class of 1963. He continued his education at Iowa State University where he studied Industrial Engineering. On May 28, 1967, Larry was united in marriage to Marian Buhr in Ames, Iowa.

Larry loved the rural life which prompted him to purchase an old farm site outside of Waseca, where he spent 52 years raising his family, and hosting extended family gatherings. He was an eternal optimist who loved salvaging and restoring. He could fix almost anything. Amateur radio was one of his lifelong hobbies, having become licensed at the age of 12. He was always putting up and taking down multiple antennas. His love of radio inspired his entire career. He was proud of his multiple patents which helped shape the telecommunications industry.

Music was always a part of his life. He enjoyed playing piano, organ, and singing, and he especially enjoyed country gospel music. Larry was also a licensed private pilot and would hang out with his friends at the local airport. His love of the natural world was shared with his family. Larry enjoyed working with his wife to take care of their multiple gardens and was especially fond of his vegetable garden. He was a faithful member of North Waseca Lutheran Church. Larry was very loving to his family and would do anything for them. His tender loving care will be greatly missed.

Larry is survived by his wife of 55 years, Marian; son, Andrew and Elizabeth (Kash) Fischer and their children: Sebastian and Vincent of Hopkins; son, Alan and Ashleigh (Billotte) Fischer and their children: Ailis, Ardan, and Augustus of Spearfish, South Dakota; brother, Douglas Fischer of Scottsdale, AZ. Preceded in death by his parents.

Private family service will be held with burial in North Waseca Lutheran Cemetery.

A Public Celebration of Life will be announced on a later date.

Dennisfuneralhomes.com

2022-05-29 Miller, Roger A

Roger A Miller 1935-2022

ROGER ALBERT MILLER, age 87, of Waseca passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 29, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Born at home on the family farm on February 4, 1935, Roger was the son of Albert and Grace (Groh) Miller. On June 2, 1956, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Rochelle Coon, and they were just shy of celebrating 66 years together. Roger served in the army reserves for four years. He worked at Bird’s Eye, and Corchran’s where he assembled and operated the Vaughn Loaders before retiring after 37 years. Roger was with the Waseca County Sheriff’s Posse for 7 years. He enjoyed raising and showing his quarter horses, fishing, playing cards, watching westerns and sports. Most importantly, Roger cherished spending time with his family.

Roger is survived by his wife, Rochelle; son, Michael (Michele) of Delano; daughter, Bridget (Tim) Stoner of Madison Lake; daughter-in-law, Rita Miller of Waseca; grandchildren: Christopher and Patrick McGuiggan, Benjamin Miller, Allison Weber, Jacob, Michael, Sarah and Joshua Miller, and Samantha, Lindsey, and Gina Stoner; 11 great grandchildren; brother, Lawrence (Rosemary) Miller; sister, Margaret (Don) Dugo; sisters-in-law: Doris Coon, and Dallas Tollefson; brothers-in-law: Randy Coon, and John Schultz; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Tom Coon; mother-in-law, Ellen (Nikl) Coon; brother, Robert Miller; sister, Audrey Cemensky; daughter, Constance McGuiggan; son, Joseph Miller; granddaughter, Katy Miller; sisters-in-law: Mary Ellen Schultz, and Bertha (Melvin) Morsching; brother-in-law, Alvin Coon.

Memorial gifts are preferred and may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Mayo Clinic Hospice – East Team.

Roger’s family would like to thank the Hospice staff for the excellent care they provided.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 2, 2022, with a rosary service to begin at 7:00 PM all at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at church on Friday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:30 PM on Friday, June 3, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca with Fr. Gregory Leif as celebrant. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Waseca.

2022-05-26 Deef, Robert F

Robert F Deef 1929-2022

ROBERT F. “BOB” DEEF, age 93 of Waseca, passed away at his Colony Court home in Waseca on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

Born in Waseca on May 17, 1929, Bob was the son of William and Mary (Brown) Deef. He attended school at Sacred Heart in Waseca and Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis. On June 18, 1949, Bob was united in marriage to Romelle Neidt at Sacred Heart in Waseca. He began his career working for his father’s road construction company building many roads throughout Waseca County and the Owatonna Degner Regional Airport. He worked as the Waseca County Civil Defense Director for 37 years, and as the General Maintenance Supervisor for the University of Minnesota Southern Experiment Station in Waseca for 42 years. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking, and was a past member of the Waseca Lion’s Club where he also served as President.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Romelle Deef of Waseca; son, David (Kathie) Deef of Conroe, TX; son William Deef of Minneapolis; Hiroshi Yoshino of Minneapolis; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and one son, Daniel Deef.

Private family services will be held at a later date, with interment to follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.

2022-05-16 Chaffin, Robert L

Robert L Chaffin 1924-2022

Robert Lee Chaffin (he’d politely ask you to call him “Bob”), age 98, passed away May 16, 2022, in Waseca Area Memorial Hospital after a great life and a brief illness.

Bob was born to Thomas Benton Chaffin and Jessie Stratten Chaffin on February 13, 1924. He was raised with his three brothers in the small, southern town of Ozark, Missouri. He played various high school sports, but basketball was his love.

Bob graduated during World War II, entered the military, and hoped to join his older brothers in battle as a Navy pilot, but he was selected for officer training and college education. He chuckled when he spoke of playing on Utah College’s basketball team alongside Bob Barker, he was proud to have lettered in the high jump, and he loved to tell the story of his Navy buddies painting the college emblem Navy blue on graduation eve.

Bob earned his master’s degree at the University of Missouri and became a high school teacher and basketball coach in Forsythe and then Rolla. Coaching was the highlight of his life until he met Lois Johnson, a physical education teacher originally from Waseca. Bob and Lois were married at the First Congregational Church in Waseca on December 23, 1950, and, not surprisingly, spent their honeymoon at the Missouri state basketball tournament (Lois was a good sport).

Bob and Lois spent several happy years in Missouri, where they made life-long friends, before moving to Waseca with the hope of starting a family. Bob took employment at the E. F. Johnson Company as personnel manager and later became a vice president. Bob and Lois had two children, Candy Chaffin Rinowski of Bloomington, Minnesota and Nancy Elizabeth Russell, a resident of Waseca.

In addition to his work at EFJ, Bob served on many boards, was involved in local charities, and continued his love of recreation and sports, playing tennis and golf; boating; coaching his daughter’s softball team (he could tell you stories!); RVing to Florida; attending Vikings games with Lois in subzero snowstorms; cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals; and rooting for the Waseca Bluejays.

Bob and Lois had been married 70 years when she passed away last fall. He loved her with all his heart and often spoke of going home to her.

Bob was a kind and generous man. He was a loyal friend and a loving, albeit overprotective, father. When in his 90’s, he still asked his loved ones to call when they got home safe and sound even if they lived just across the street.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Lois, and their daughter, Candy; his parents Tom and Jessie Chaffin, his brothers Maurice, James, and Joe Donald Chaffin; and his granddaughter Carlee Russell. He is survived by his daughter Nancy; son-in-law Joseph Rinowski of Bloomington; eight grandchildren and their significant others, Molly and Andrew Olsen, Whitney Rinowski and her fiancé Bryan Pierick, Marissa and Nicholas Beauchamp, Abby Rinowski and her fiancé Nik Randall, Danny and Johanna Russell, Alex and Sandra Russell, Anastasia Russell, and Tatiana Russell; and three great-grandchildren, Zoey and Delaney Olsen, and Clara Russell.

The family is grateful for the outpouring of kindness that has been shown to them during this time. They will be holding an open house in Bob’s memory on Sunday, June 12th from 4 to 8 pm at daughter Nancy’s home at 825 6th Ave NE. All friends and family are welcome to attend.

2022-05-14 Nuessmeir, Harold E

Harold E Nuessmeir 1933-2022

Harold E. Nuessmeier, 89, Waseca, died Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Lake Shore Inn in Waseca. Private family services will be held. Interment will be at Woodland Hills Indoor Columbarium in Mankato. Please see full obituary at: woodlandhillsfh.com

Harold was born January 9, 1933 to Raymond and Minnie (Schmidthuber) Nuessmeier in Dresschville, MN. He spoke fondly of spending most of his childhood on a farm in LeSueur, MN. He graduated from Le Sueur High School in 1951 and enlisted in the US Air Force in 1952. Harold cherished his beautiful wife of nearly 69 years, Valoris. He took great pride in being able to provide and care for her and his family. Harold had a work ethic beyond compare; he was a man of integrity and was a very generous individual. Harold took great pride in having served in the US Air Force from 1952-56 spending his service time in Iwo Jima, and Utah. Harold took great pleasure in being a banker. The first part of his career he spent with First Bank System, most of those years in Austin, MN. In 1987 his career brought him to Roundbank in Waseca as Vice President and Cashier where he fully retired in 2007. Wherever Harold was employed or volunteered he gave generously of his time and talents. He was proud that he wasn't sick a day in his career. In his younger years he enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and driving his '49 Ford Custom. He also enjoyed listening to music, especially Andre Rieu and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, gardening, lawn care, shopping for a great deal, golfing, volunteering at church and was a member of the Austin and Waseca Rotary Club for many years.

He is survived by wife, Valoris Nuessmeier of Waseca; Allen (Paula) Nuessmeier of Blue Earth; daughter, Jenny (Doug) Sandbeck of Waseca; son in-law, Steve Elton of Kasson; grandchildren, Joshua (Kimberly) Nuessmeier, Jonathon (Skye) Nuessmeier, Amber (Aaron) Beissel, Brianna (Kyle) Johnson, Cristina (Lucas) Nienow, Ryan & Jayme Sandbeck, Derek (Anje) Sandbeck; great grandchildren, Charlee & Everly Beissel, Jordan Johnson, Kane & Letty Nienow, and Hannah Sandbeck; sister-in-law, Barb Gaard; brother-in-law and his wife, Virgil and Hazel Gaard; and many nieces and nephews.

Harold is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Danita Elton; grandson, Aaron Nuessmeier; sisters, Margie Thelemann, Deloris Traxler; and brothers in-law, Alvin Thelmann, Jim Gaard, and Jerry Gaard.

2022-05-08 Lane, Jeffrey C

Jeffrey C Lane 1943-2022

JEFFREY CHARLES LANE, age 78, of Waseca died on Sunday, May 8, 2022, at his home.

Born on November 5, 1943, in Minneapolis to Charles and Norma (Blood) Lane. He attended Edina Public School and graduated with the class of 1961. Jeff furthered his education at the University of Minnesota, and left to enlist in the Air Force. He served from 1964-1968, part of that time in Germany. Jeff then worked at Control Data for 2 years, followed by 3 years at Midland Cooperative. On August 11, 1973, he was united in marriage to Sally Sellman in Golden Valley. They moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he worked on a project for the US Post Office in New York. In 1977, he took a job at Brown Printing in Waseca where he started their IT department. Jeff worked at Brown for several years while he and Sally together raised their three children. During this time, he went back to the U of MN to finish his degree, instilling in his children the value of an education and a love of learning. He left Brown to start his own computer consulting business, “Crystal Image Software”.

Jeff loved playing and listening to music, watching sports, and he enjoyed camping and boating with family. He was well-read, especially in the fields of science and technology. He always had several projects going on that he would tinker with at his leisure. He was ready, willing, and able to offer advice and a helping hand on any of his family’s home repairs and remodeling. He designed a tracking app for firefighters. He received recognition from the Waseca Board of Education for his commitment and service to Waseca students, and was recognized by the Waseca Marching Classic for his more than 10 years of service on its board and time spent organizing the parade.

He will always be remembered as a very kind and supportive man, generous with his time and talents, who had a great sense of humor and who cherished time spent with his family.

Jeff is survived by his former wife, Sally of Waseca; children: Vanessa (Benjamin) Holmes of Maple Grove, Jared (Jessica) Lane of Burnsville, and Rachel (Paul) Deraas of Apple Valley; eight grandchildren: Greta, Evelyn, and Charles Holmes, Owen Oskerson, Jonas and Jude Lane, and Sawyer and Corie Deraas; sister, Terri (John) Mindock; brothers: Toby Lane and Randy (Christie) Lane; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including lifelong friend Ches (Lory) Strom.

Preceded in death by his parents and sister, Janice (Ross) Solomonson.

A private family memorial will be held.

2022-03-28 Rifenbergh, James K

James K Rifenbergh 1930-2022

James K. Rifenbergh

one of the good guys

On Saturday, March 28, 2022, James Rifenbergh passed away peacefully, owing to complications of dementia. Jim was born in the small town of Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, on September 21, 1930.His birth, during the Great Depression, was a blessing to his parents, the late Kent and Marvel (Peterson) Rifenbergh.

Jim graduated from Washington High School, where he excelled in sports and earned an Eagle Scout badge. He received a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Jim served four years in the U.S. Air Force, serving during the Korean war.

Jim’s professional career took him to Madison, WI, where he worked for Carl C. Crane, an engineering firm. Then he was on to Chicago, as an engineer for Inland Steel Co. Jim's career in the printing industry began at Poole Bros., a printing conglomerate in the Midwest. From 1967 till 1995, he worked at Brown Printing Company (now Quad Graphics). Brown is one of the largest printing companies in the United States, printing such titles as "Time" magazine, "Sports Illustrated," and the "New England Journal of Medicine." Jim held the positions of president, chief executive officer, and chairman emeritus ll. In 2002, Jim and his wife, Jacqueline (Jackie) moved from Minnesota to Lewes, Delaware. He served on the Canal front Park committee and on the Greater Lewes Foundation board.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jackie; his daughters, Julie Blassick, and her husband, John; Amy Lundberg, and her husband, Andy; his four grandchildren: CJ, Steven, Madeline, and Nicholas; his great-granddaughter, Ava; his cousin Marlene Kreuger; and his loving pets.

Jim’s last wishes specified that he wanted his ashes to be sent to his Wisconsin hometown, for burial in the family plot (he also specified that he did not want a funeral or any memorial service).

Jim’s favorite song was "Imagine," in which John Lennon envisions a better world. After years of struggling with the debilitating disease of dementia, Jim deserves to be in a better world, maybe one in which his golf score goes down, the stock market goes up, and the Green Bay Packers win the Super Bowl. "Imagine. "

The family wants to thank the staff at the Moorings and Seasons hospice for their attentive care.

Please visit Jim 's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com

2022-03-05 McIntire, Elizabeth "Betty"

Elizabeth "Betty" McIntire 1928-2022

ELIZABETH “BETTY” GLENNON MCINTIRE, age 93 of Waseca died on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester.

Born on June 16, 1928 in Miller, South Dakota, she was the daughter of Dr. Robert and Irene (Hatch) Glennon. She graduated from Miller High School in 1946 and the College of St. Catherine in 1950. On June 26, 1950, Betty was united in marriage to Homer “Mac” McIntire Jr. in Miller, South Dakota. While living in Iowa, Betty did research at the University of Iowa. They moved to Waseca in 1961 and opened McIntire Drug where Betty did the buying and bookwork for the business.

Betty was a devoted mother and volunteer in the community. She belonged to numerous bridge clubs, Monday Study Club, and the American Legion Auxiliary. She was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca and where she taught CCD, served as a eucharistic minister for many years, and was a member of the Catholic Daughters. She also served on the welcoming and social committees at church. She served on the board for the Waseca Library and was a member of Waseca Lakeside Club. Betty also served as a Cub Scout, Brownie and Girl Scout leader. She enjoyed playing bridge, golf, traveling, and her grandchildren.

She is survived by her four children, Homer “Marty” (Becky) McIntire of Greendale, WI, Nancy (David LaMotte) McIntire of Eagan, John (Ann) McIntire of Minneapolis, and Betsy McIntire of Owatonna; nine grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Robert; granddaughter, Kelly; and sisters, Rosemary, Jeanette, and Roberta.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca from 4-7 PM and continue on Thursday, one hour before services at the church.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.

2022-01-30 Hultine, Pastor Vicki R

Pastor Vicki R Hultine 1951-2022

Vicki Roberta Hultine, age 70, passed away Sunday, January 30, 2022 at her home in Mankato.

Pastor Vicki Hultine grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of two chiropractors.

After graduating from high school in Milwaukee, she earned an undergraduate degree in music education at St. Olaf College in Northfield, which she called “liberating.” For six years in the 1970s, Vicki was a music specialist in the Minneapolis public schools, a very eye-opening experience. “Some of it was pretty touch,” she said.

Having considered the seminary while at St. Olaf, Pastor Vicki did eventually pursue that path. She entered Luther Seminary in St. Paul (just about the time it was okay for women to be pastors, she said). Pastor Vicki earned a Master of Divinity degree and a Master of Theology degree and pursued a doctorate in pastoral counseling at the School of the Theology at Claremont, California.

Music was a major factor in Pastor Vicki’s life. She sang in the St. Olaf Choir (alto or second soprano) and sang with the Dale Warland Singers before entering the seminary. “I love choral music,” she said. As a Warland Singer, appearances on Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home Companion were a highlight.

Another one of Pastor Vicki’s claims to fame was being the first female employee in the shipping department of Augsburg Publishing House. During the time she was working on her Master of Theology degree, she worked at Augsburg, not only in shipping but also as the night janitor and in sales. She said the experience working with people was really a good one. “It kept the theology grounded in reality.”

Experience as chaplain at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale also added to Pastor Vicki’s understanding. She said it was hard, but very rich, working with people in the circumstance of death. She worked with hospice patients and families; she conducted grief and support groups and spiritual assessment training for nurses, not to impose their own beliefs on patients, but to allow them to own theirs. “There is a spiritual aspect when people are dying that takes over when medicine doesn’t work,” she said. She called it a great experience.

Throughout the years, Pastor Vicki served as pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Waseca, Lands Lutheran Church in Zumbrota, and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mapleton. Preferring to be called “pastor” instead of the more formal “reverend,” Pastor Vicki said she really believes in a priesthood of all believers. “Everyone is called to different vocations,” she said. She was called to be a pastor. “That doesn’t mean I am better.”

She enjoyed the creative aspects of the worship service - preaching, using words. One of her favorite parts of being a pastor was conducting baptisms. “It’s a new life,” she said. And, because she remembers straining as a child to see the baby at the baptismal font, she carried each baby “all around the church, so everyone can see him/her.”

Pastor Vicki loved music, of course. She also loved reading – theology, mysteries, and a variety of other subjects. Other interests included rubber stamping and creating stain glass pieces.

Condolences to Pastor Vicki's family can be mailed to Mankato Mortuary, 1001 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001.

2021-12-17 Bergerson, Donna M

Donna M Dezell Bergerson 1926-2021

DONNA MARGARET BERGERSON, age 95, passed away on the morning of Friday, December 17, 2021 at Foxdale in Waseca.

Born in New Richland on November 21, 1926, Donna was the daughter of Carroll and Mae (Verplank) Dezell. She attended school in New Richland until the family moved to Freeborn where she graduated with the class of 1944. She went on to Mankato State University and began her career teaching kindergarten in Keister in 1946. Donna was married to Orlan Bergerson on July 7, 1948, and settled in Hartland MN, moving to Waseca in the mid-1950s. She earned her Masters degree in education at Mankato State in 1970 and taught reading and math in Waseca for the next 35 years, retiring in the early 1990’s.

Donna was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church, sang in the church choir, volunteered at FarmAmerica, Waseca County Fair, Lutheran Brotherhood, and served as president of the Waseca Area Retired Educators. She enjoyed gardening, painting, shopping and most of all, reading. She was a devoted caregiver to her children, husband and parents, but teaching children to read was her true calling in life.

Donna is survived by her children, Brian Bergerson of Waseca, Bruce (Ginnie) Bergerson of Janesville, and Beth Abraham (Jon Wabner) of Waseca; six grandsons, Will (Holly) Abraham, Brad (Jill) Bergerson, Tom (Shelly) Anderson, Tim (Amber) Bergerson, Colin Bergerson and Dylan Bergerson, four greatgrandchildren and many other relatives and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Orlan; and great-grandson, Hayden Anderson.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca, and will continue for one hour before the service on Wednesday.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca, with Rev. Paige Whitney officiating. Following a luncheon, interment will take place at Freeborn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Alzheimers Association.

2021-11-09 Mahler Passer, Betty Jean

Betty Jean Mahler Passer 1928-2021

Betty Jean Passer, age 93 of Maplewood, formerly of Roseville, died Tuesday, Nov.9, 2021, surrounded by her family.

Betty was born in Waseca, MN, and when she was five, she moved to Winnebago, MN with her family. She graduated with her teaching certificate from Mankato State. Betty started her teaching career in Truman and Albert Lea. In 1952 she married Rev. Burton Passer and they served churches in Woodbury, Waseca, St. Paul and Marshall. During this time, she enrolled at the University of Minnesota, obtaining her Bachelor’ s degree in education, furthering her career while raising her family and supporting Burton’s ministry. After her retirement, she devoted herself to learning the art of quilting, becoming an accomplished quilt designer. Betty gave her family many beautiful hand-made quilts and led a church group to make crib quilts, which they donated to various crisis nurseries around the Twin Cities. She was a precious wife and devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Betty was an inspiration to her family as a model of loving kindness.

Preceded in death by parents, Wesley and Elsie Mahler; husband, Burton; daughter, Katie Zechmeister; 2 stillborn grandchildren, Michael Salim and Rania Elizabeth Lagnaoui; 5 siblings, Thelma (Carroll) Davidson, Jim (Alice), Rick (Phyllis), Millie Oliver, Marge Ganzgow; and brother-in-law, Dr. Charles Schabacker.

Survived by her children, Jean (Jim) Roemer, Judy Passer, Gloria (Joe Galban) Passer, Mary (Michael Cohen) Lagnaoui; son-in-law, Howie Zechmeister; sister, Myra Schabacker; grandchildren, Christie (Michael) Rothbauer, Dan Roemer, Scott (Michele) Roemer, Ben (Hailey) Passer; great grandchildren, Mackenzie, Buddy, Trent, Maddie; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

2021-10-16 Dukes, Larry L

Larry L Dukes 1941-2021

LARRY LEE DUKES, age 80, of Waseca, died on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato.

Born on August 11, 1941, in Fargo, the son of Everett and Olive (Ruble) Dukes. He graduated from Bloomington High School in 1959. Larry was married to Ilona Kollath in Minneapolis in 1968. Together they were blessed with two daughters: Lisa of Minneapolis and Aimie of Honolulu. Larry and Ilona owned and operated the Waseca Dairy Queen from 1980 – 1992. They later divorced in 1992. Larry was a US Army Veteran, he was stationed at Ft. Bragg, No. Carolina, 13th Psychological Warfare Bn and the American Forces Radio/TV Network in Seoul, Korea. He worked at KWWL/TV in Waterloo, KDWB Radio in Minneapolis, K-POI Radio in Honolulu and KOWO Radio in Waseca until 1986. He was president of the Waseca Chamber of Commerce until retiring in 2007. Larry was past president of the Waseca Rotary Club and Minnesota Chamber Executives Association. He was also a member of the Waseca American Legion, board member of the Waseca Development Corp. and Trustee of the US Chamber Institute program. Larry was a licensed pilot.

Private interment will be in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Dennisfuneralhomes.com

2021-09-22 Anderson Kozan, Judy G

Judy G Anderson Kozan 1949-2021

Judy G. Kozan, age 72, of Waseca, MN passed away Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at home in Waseca, MN after surviving metastatic cancer for seven years.

Born in Franklin, Minnesota on September 16, 1949, Judy was the daughter of Dale and June (Johnson) Anderson. She attended Kennedy High School in Bloomington, MN and graduated in 1967. She met musician James Joseph Kozan while working as a Booking Agent for BHE in Minneapolis, MN. Jim and Judy’s loving 44 year relationship began almost instantly. They moved to Duluth, MN and returned to Waseca, MN to make their home. Throughout their lives together in Waseca Judy and Jim owned and operated the Waseca Music Store, which Jim continues to run. Judy was elected to the Waseca City Council, Ward 3, in 1983 and elected as the first (and only) female Mayor of Waseca in 1993. Due to her hard work and dedication to the job she was able to oversee the beginning of the Federal Prison location in Waseca and the establishment of ITRON in Waseca. Judy loved French bull dogs and was a strong advocate for animal rights. She enjoyed painting, genealogy, photography, landscaping and most of all, her grandchildren.

Judy is survived by her husband, Jim Kozan of Waseca; three children, Amber Kozan of Excelsior, Clint Kozan (Melissa Graves) of Waseca, and Clayton Kozan (Jillian Pfaffinger) of Lubbock, Texas; four grandchildren, Aja, Sophia, Liam, and Winifred. She is also survived by siblings, Jill (Steiner) Nelson of Golden Valley, Mary Anderson of Kingman, AZ, Lori (Mark) Mittelsteadt of Hutchinson, and Paul (Tammy) Anderson of Lonsdale.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and by two brothers, Gary and John Anderson.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 2, 2021 from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the State Street Chapel (711 N. State St.) of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca.

2021-09-02 Wobschall, Gordon R

Gordon R Wobschall 1928-2021

Gordon Robert Wobschall, age 93 of Waseca passed away on Thursday, September 2, 2021.

Gordy was born on February 20, 1928 to Fred C. Wobschall and Mabel I. (Schauer) Wobschall Johnson in Waseca, MN and attended rural county elementary school. He married Dorothy Ann (Siebert) October 23, 1953 in Mason City, Iowa.

He worked at the Chevrolet Dealership in Waseca for 55 years. He served in the military as a motor vehicle mechanic from 1946 to 1947.

Gordy spent many hours in his basement building wooden model vehicles, which earned him several ribbons at the Waseca County Fair. He also enjoyed fishing, bowling and spending time with his grandsons. He was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church.

Gordy is survived by his son Randy (Marlys), grandsons Scott and Kevin of Apple Valley, MN, sister Bernice Blastervold of Rush City, MN, sister-in-law Evelyn Pierce of Vancouver, Washington, nieces and nephew.

Proceeded in death by his parents, wife Dorothy, brothers Harold, Vernon and Milton (Mush), sister-in-laws Betty Jordahl, Donna Neuendorf and Goldie Keyes, brother-in-laws Delmar Jordahl, Leon Pierce, Dale Keyes and Bud Blastervold.

A special thanks to the staff at Colony Court, Waseca, and Mayo Clinic Hospice for their compassionate care.

A public visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until Noon on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca. A private interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery.

2021-05-30 Stadelmann Corchran, Maria E

Maria E "Liz" Stadelmann Corchran 1930-2021

MARIA ELIZABETH “LIZ” CORCHRAN, of Waseca, died at the Lakeshore Inn in Waseca on May 30, 2021, at age 90.

Born on August 7, 1930 in Uttenreuth, Germany, she was the daughter of George and Barbara (Knapp) Stadelmann. Liz met Kent Ulrich while he was stationed in Germany. They were united in marriage and had two children, Maryann and George. They moved to the United States in 1955 and to Waseca in 1966, where they were divorced. Liz later married James Corchran on November 17, l984 at St. John Lutheran Church in Waseca.

Liz was a member of Faith United Methodist Church. She established the James B. Corchran Memorial Fund with the Waseca Area Foundation. Liz was also active in the Waseca community as a volunteer with the Waseca County Historical Society, the Waseca Arts Council, Meals on Wheels, helping people get on and off the church bus at both Grace Lutheran Church and Faith United Methodist Church, the annual WAC Christmas House Walk, rescuing turtles and frogs as they attempted to cross the road around Clear Lake, and in countless ways large and small that never made it to an official list. All these accomplishments from a humble woman who could speak only German when she first came to this country and yet, with her customary determination, soon taught herself English, quickly becoming fluent, with just a trace of an accent that she laughingly denied having.

Liz liked walking, biking, bowling, classical music, and especially liked her dogs. She was an active woman who was never all that fond of just sitting. When she moved to Latham Place and could no longer drive, she walked. When she moved to Lake Shore and could no longer walk well, she used her walker or her wheel chair to keep moving and would greet one and all with her famous smile and a friendly greeting.

Liz was a loving wife and mother, and she was a devoted, loyal friend. Seeing Liz’s smile and enjoying her genuine friendship, it was easy to forget that she had survived some of life’s greatest misfortunes. Even when she was feeling sad, Liz continued to “take one day at a time” (her personal philosophy and favorite adage) and tried to find something positive to focus on. Her solution for world peace was both simple and profound: we should be more friendly and neighborly. Liz was a very kind person. She was much loved and will be sorely missed.

She is survived by her daughter Maryann (Chris) Ross of Minneapolis, and two nephews, Volker and Gunter Rubin in Germany. She was preceded in death by her husband Jim in 1990, her son George in 1975, and her sister Betty.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30AM on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca, with Rev. Carolyn Doering officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour before the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Waseca Area Foundation (Faith Church Fund).

2021-04-10 Stepan Nakladal, Patricia M

Patricia M Stepan Nakladal 1934-2021

PATRICIA MARY NAKLADAL, age 87 of Janesville, died on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at Village Shores in Richfield.

Born in Le Center on February 12, 1934, Pat was the daughter of Joseph and Beatrice (Gill) Stepan. She was baptized at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and attended St. Mary’s Parochial School in Le Center. She moved to Janesville in 1948 with her family and graduated from Janesville High School in 1952. She then studied nursing at the college of St. Catherine in St. Paul, graduating in 1955. She worked at Miller Hospital in St. Paul and later at the Faribault State School & Hospital in Faribault. On October 20, 1956 she was united in marriage to Raymond J. Nakladal in Janesville. They lived in St. Paul and Faribault before moving to Waseca in 1961. At that time Pat’s father Joseph Stepan, Ray, and Pat purchased Muyres Shoe Store from Auggie Muyres. The name became Ray’s Family Shoes and they operated the business for 39 years until retiring in the summer of 1995.

Pat and Ray had a one of a kind love filled with cruises, travel, Red Lobster, casinos, Beanie Babies, playing cards and games with family and friends, and utterly enjoying being with each other. Pat loved the state fair, Wayne Newton, Bahama Mama’s, going to the cabin, boat rides, caramel café lattes, deserts and sweets, and many many trips to Las Vegas. Pat was a people’s poet, writing poems for everyone and every event. She loved to write letters and send cards. But above all she adored her nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, and spoiled every one of them rotten. At one point Pat and Ray had so many God Children they had to decline taking on new ones for a spell.

Pat was a woman of faith. Practicing her faith everyday with her kind and gentle ways. She was good natured, funny, and a joy for anyone to be around. Pat never went anywhere without a friendly conversation and a smile. Pat volunteered with Miss Sleigh Bell Pageant for the Sleigh & Cutter Festival, The Jaycees, and the Catholic Order of Foresters. Pat loved her Catholic saints. She attributed many miracles and lost items (that were always eventually found) to St. Anthony. He never let her down.

Pat and Ray were big Vikings fans. They had season tickets from the 1960s to the late 1990s. They loved their Twins and Timberwolves too. Their hearts were broken many times by the teams of Minnesota, but Pat and Ray were no fair-weather fans and stood behind them all, win or lose.

Patricia is survived by her two brothers, Joseph (Portia) Stepan and Kenneth (Bonnie) Stepan; siblings-in-law; and many many nieces and nephews; as well as great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her dear Ray and both of her parents, Joseph and Beatrice Stepan of Janesville.

A celebration of Patricia’s life will be held at a later date.

2021-02-28 Neumann, Glenwood

Glenwood "Glen" Neumann 1921-2021

Glenwood Neumann, age 99, formerly of Waseca, died on Sunday, February 28, 2021, at the Thomas Rest Haven Nursing Home in Coon Rapids, Iowa.

Born on March 7, 1921, in rural New Richland, Minnesota to Harry and Hannah Mable (Bergum) Neumann. Glenwood and his twin sister, Pearl, attended a one room schoolhouse where they would ride their ponies to and from each day. He loved to share his many memories of growing up on the family farm near New Richland. He fondly remembered playing with their St. Bernard and fishing in the nearby creeks.

On November 13, 1943, Glenwood was drafted into the United States Army where he honorably served his country during World War II. During his time in the service, Glenwood attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. He received the Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge along with Marksmanship and Good Conduct Honors. Glenwood was honorably discharged on February 16, 1946, and returned to Waseca, Minnesota. On September 2, 1946, Glenwood was united in marriage to Ardell Muedeking at St. John Lutheran Church in Waseca. Together they shared 54 years of marriage before Ardell passed away on May 1, 2000.

Glenwood began his working career at the Waseca Gamble Store which he later co-owned with Don Gedosch. Following Don’s retirement, Glenwood continued to own and operate the Gamble Store until his retirement in the mid-1980’s. He loved meeting and greeting his customers and helping them with whatever they needed, from sharpening skates, making house calls to repair appliances and especially giving away one bicycle a year. One of Glenwood’s life-long hobbies was car shopping. He was always buying, selling, trading, or thinking about cars. In retirement he kept busy traveling to his daughter and son-in-law’s farm in Iowa to fix, repair, or build things. He loved entertaining his two grandchildren, Ian, and Savanna, giving advice as they grew, and sharing his love of animals with them, especially dogs and horses.

Glenwood lived a good, long life. Helping people whenever he could and gaining a big, strong heart through those efforts. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Glenwood is survived by his daughter, Kay Neumann and her husband, Jonathan Judson; grandchildren: Ian (Kallie) Judson, and Savanna (Nolan Schultes) Judson; niece, Debra (Jim) Hosfield; four nephews: Mike (Mary) Muedeking, Mark (Katie) Muedeking, Craig (Susan) Muedeking, and Todd (Nancy) Dalaska; sister-in-law, Francis Muedeking.

A public graveside service will be held on Glenwood’s 100th Birthday, March 7, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Le Sueur River Lutheran Cemetery in rural New Richland.

In lieu of cards or flowers, donations can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waseca and Le Sueur River Lutheran Church in New Richland.

2021-02-2? Fuller, Boyd C

Boyd Fuller 1927?-2021

WASECA — Boyd passed away from natural causes of old age and complications from Parkinson's Disease.

He was born in Albion, Maine and enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school graduation, serving two years during WWII. He then earned a degree in poultry science and agricultural education from the University of Maine, Orono and a master's degree in farm management from the University of Minnesota.

He moved to MN in 1950 to establish a G.I. on-the-farm training program for Waseca area veterans. He often said he learned more from the farmers than they learned from him. He went on to teach at the Southern School of Agriculture in Waseca and agribusiness courses at the University of MN Waseca until its close in 1992. Boyd met his wonderful wife Ruth through the Southern School of Agriculture where she was school nurse.

Boyd loved traveling and meeting people. He was active with the SSA/UMW alumni, Minnesota Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, International Farm Managers Association, and the Waseca Soil and Water District. He volunteered for Meals on Wheels and with students at the Federal Correctional Facility in Waseca.

Anyone who knew Boyd knew he loved to talk! He was a voracious reader and discusser of ideas. He was a walker - right up until the end.

He is survived by his daughter Lisa Fuller of Duluth, son Bill Fuller of Waseca, granddaughter Jade Eggert and great-grandchildren Ahnalia and Kai of Rochester, MN. Preceding him in death were his parents, brother Carleton, son Merritt and wife Ruth.

There will be a celebration of life in Waseca in the future. Memorials can be directed to your favorite charity or the Waseca Historical Society.

2021-02-16 Jacobsen Lewer, Phyllis I

Phyllis I Jacobsen Lewer 1928-2021

PHYLLIS IRENE LEWER, age 92, passed on from her earthly, joy-filled, life on February 16, 2021.

Phyllis was born on her family farm in Tyler, MN on December 20, 1928. She arrived during inclement weather on that winter day, and was delivered by her father, Roy Jacobsen and mother, Helene. Phyllis attended grade school at Indian Grove #43 Country School near Tyler, MN, and completed the remainder of her middle and high school at Tyler High School, graduating in 1946. She was a member of the Danebod Lutheran Church during her childhood.

Phyllis attended Mankato State University, graduating with a teacher’s degree in 1948. She taught in North Mankato from 1948-1950. While a student at the university, a chance introduction to Henry Lewer led to a lifelong relationship that has lasted 69 years. She married Henry on June 10, 1951, and they relocated to Jackson, MN where she taught at the area grade school. Phyllis and Henry moved to Waseca in 1952, where she continued her teaching career in the New Richland School district.

After officially retiring from full time teaching, she became affectionately known to her peers as one of Waseca’s “full time” substitute teachers, touching many lives between faculty and students alike with her sincere devotion to education. During this time, she received “The Friend of Education Award”, bestowed on her as an outstanding educator.

Phyllis loved to garden, was an avid walker, and attended countless Jazzercise classes over the years. She was a “super” fan for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, as a football and basketball season ticket holder for over 40 years. She and Henry enjoyed post-season travel to Bowl games, NCAA and NIT tournaments.

Of all of Phyllis’ accomplishments, nothing was more important than family. She took great pride in Christine and Henry Jr.’s achievements. Phyllis treasured each of her grandchildren. She spent countless hours reading to them, laughing with them and creating cherished memories with them. Phyllis and Henry Sr. were devoted parents and grandparents attending endless sporting events and religious milestones whether it was in Northern Minnesota or North Carolina. Phyllis will also always be remembered by her family and friends for her delicious pies.

Phyllis and Henry were world travelers, but their best trips were those that included their children and grandchildren, the fondest of which were watching sunsets together on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

Those who knew and loved Phyllis will forever remember her contagious smile, happy disposition and hearty laughter. Throughout her life, Phyllis was a devout Christian. She remained dedicated in her faith through her bible study group, worship and as an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church congregation.

Phyllis is survived by her loving husband Henry Lewer of 69 years of marriage, daughter Christine Reichl (Stephen) of Minneapolis, MN, son Henry Lewer Jr. (Janie) of Lakeside, MT, and six grandchildren; John, Allison and Hannah Reichl, and Henry III, Jackson and Abigail Lewer, her brother Curtis Jacobsen, Rochester, MN, and sister Judy Allison of Portland, OR. She was preceded in death by her brother Virgil Jacobsen and sister Avis Colby.

Visitation will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waseca, MN on Monday, February 22, 2021 at 11:00AM, with the funeral service to follow at Noon, officiated by Pastor John Omans. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to St John’s Lutheran Church general fund.

2021-02-07 Culligan Driessen, Catherine

Catherine Culligan Driessen 1922-2021

Catherine “Kate” Ann (Culligan) Driessen, age 98, formerly of Waseca, MN. A gracious and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Kate passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 7. Preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Gene Driessen, she will be dearly missed by her loving family and friends.

Kate was born July 3, 1922, in Porter, MN, daughter of Emmett and Anna Culligan, and moved throughout her childhood, living in St. Paul, MN, Phoenix and Yuma, AZ, Fort Wayne, IN, and La Grange, IL. A 1940 graduate of Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, IL, she attended DePaul University and graduated from Rosary College in Chicago in 1944 with a degree in music. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority at Rosary and lived for a time at the Three Arts Club in Chicago. She loved music of all types, avidly played the piano and greatly enjoyed going to orchestra and choral events. After college, she moved to Southern California to work as a Girl Scout leader. After WWII, she married Gene Driessen on April 12, 1947, in San Bernardino, CA, and together, they nurtured and educated nine children, living also in Los Altos and Palo Alto, CA, moving to Hopkins, MN, and finally settling in Waseca in 1962.

Kate’s faith was very important to her, and she was involved in religious education and eucharistic ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. She loved her multiple bridge clubs, and was a highly skilled player and enthusiastic competitor. In addition, she volunteered at the Waseca Arts Center and Waseca Medical Center, and she was active with Rotary International along with Gene. They relished the opportunity to travel worldwide, including witnessing the historic events at Tiananmen Square in 1989.

Family meant everything to Kate, and she brought her family together. Kate and her husband, Gene, treasured their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and supported their extended families’ many academic, musical, artistic, athletic and career endeavors. She remembered each grandchild’s birthday every year, and her grandchildren proudly say today that “their cousins are their best friends.” Kate spent summers with her family at their cabin on Gull Lake, volunteered for Gull Lake Sailing School and was often seen swimming near Rocky Point.

In addition to Kate’s enduring love of music, she enjoyed a daily nap, puzzles, any game of cards and a cup of coffee or tea. We marvel at how she managed to cook 25-pound turkeys at Thanksgiving and will think of her whenever we pray the rosary.

Kate is survived by her nine children: Jeannette (Mike) Roach of Randall, MN; Daniel (Joyce) Driessen of Rosemount, MN; Elizabeth Driessen of Wayzata, MN; Thomas (Karen) Driessen of Asheville, NC; Charles (Kris) Driessen of Lake Shore, MN; Catherine (Chuck) Arvesen of Pine Springs, MN; Vincent (Martha) Driessen of Edina, MN; Peter Driessen (Nina) of Minneapolis, MN; and Gerald (Nancy) Driessen of St. Louis Park, MN; by 35 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; by her brother, Fr. Kevin Culligan of Hubertus, WI, sister-in-law Jean Doris of Chicago, IL, and many loving nieces and nephews. Kate was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and their spouses: Mary (Jim) Caterina; Therese Caterina; Anna Marie (Burt) Aamodt; Tom Culligan; John (Joyce) Culligan; and Jude (Marge) Culligan.

Private Mass of Christian Burial will be held for immediate family only, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery. A celebration of life is planned for a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Discalced Carmelite Friars, 1525 Carmel Road, Hubertus, WI, 53033 (www.holyhill.com), or Bethlehem Inn, A Home for Women and Children, 400 2nd Ave. NW, Waseca, MN 56093 (www.Bethleheminnwaseca.org). Special thanks to the dedicated staff at English Rose, where Kate lived her last four years.

2021-01-09 Sehafer, Richard W

Richard W Seehafer 1936-2021

Richard W. Seehafer 1936–2021 Marshfield—Richard Walter Seehafer died peacefully on Saturday, January 9 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, after a brief battle with cancer.

Dick was born to Walter and Edna (Schwantes) Seehafer on September 19, 1936. He grew up on the Seehafer Farm in Nasonville, Wisconsin, with his parents and sister Joyce. In 2012 the property was honored as a Wisconsin Centennial Farm and Dick proudly held the Seehafer reunion there for the celebration. Dick attended Marshfield High School where he was the captain of the football team, and also played baseball and basketball. There, he met the love of his life, Carol Bitzer. Dick and Carol were homecoming King and Queen and he was president of their senior class. Richard attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison and was an avid Badger fan his entire life. He was a member of the ROTC in college and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

After graduation, he and Carol were united in marriage and they immediately moved to Georgia where he served in the Army and was stationed at Fort Gordon. He was then transferred to Fort Stewart to prepare the base during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Richard was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant. After his military service, Dick and Carol moved back to Wisconsin and he worked at Allis Chalmers in Milwaukee. They later moved to West Des Moines, Iowa where he was the Director of Marketing for Massey Ferguson. There they raised their four children and enjoyed so many close friends through their church and country club.

In 1983, Richard and Carol bought KOWO radio station in Waseca, Minnesota. They were very active in the community during their 16 years there. Upon selling the radio station, they retired to their cabin on Deepwoods Lake near Elcho, Wisconsin. Dick started the Deepwoods Lake Association and served as president until his death. They also began "wintering" in Arizona to avoid the cold months in Wisconsin. Richard loved snowmobiling, golfing, skiing and playing any sports including broomball and pickleball with his children and grandchildren! He inherited the gift of gab from his mother and made friends out of strangers wherever they went. Dick and Carol enjoyed traveling all over the globe with their good friends in their retirement and he has been to every state in the nation.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife Carol, and his four children-- Catherine Pont, Ann (Kurt) Boson, Joan (Jerry) Erwine, and John (Lori) Seehafer. He has nine amazing grandchildren: Andrew Pont, Alyssa Pont, Alex Boson, Tanner Boson, Taylor Erwine Cecena, Mackenzie Erwine, Ella Seehafer, Josie Seehafer and Jaxson Seehafer. They all loved their Papa! He was an amazing man who was full of laughter and lived life to the fullest! His children can attest to the fact that he never wanted to waste a day and made life an adventure. He always had a smile on his face and a story to tell. He will forever be missed by his family and so many friends all across the country.

He joins his parents Walter and Edna, and his sister Joyce, in heaven. Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home in Marshfield is assisting with funeral arrangements. The family wishes to thank the staff at Aspirus Hospital for their care of Dick in his final days. Due to COVID, a private service for immediate family only will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church in Nasonville or the Aspirus Health Foundation in Wausau.

2020-11-18 Tveite, Allan P

Allan P Tveite 1940-2020

Allan P. Tveite 1940–2020 Burnsville, MN—Rev. Allan P. Tveite, longtime pastor to North Waseca Lutheran Church and Faith Lutheran in Janesville, passed away peacefully in his Burnsville home with family present on November 18, at age 80. He was born near Glenville, MN, the only child of Peter and Alice (Amundson) Tveite. Sadly, his mother died during childbirth, but he was taken in by a first cousin, Derva (Zuelke) Minear and her husband, Eugene, who moved to Minneapolis, had a son, Spencer, and were joined by Allan's father, Peter. As a youth, Allan was very active in his church, St. Olaf Lutheran, and graduated from Minneapolis North in 1958. He completed Augsburg College in 1962, majoring in history, then began seminary at Augsburg, finishing at Luther Theological Seminary in 1966. He was called to Trinity Lutheran Church, then Our Savior's Lutheran Church, both in Duluth. Next, he accepted a call from two congregations, North Waseca Lutheran Church and Faith Lutheran in Janesville, MN, becoming known for the use of humor and storytelling in his sermons, and serving them for over 32 years, until he retired to Burnsville in 2004.

In 1964, he married Jane (Cameron), and they had two sons, Jon and Joel. Allan enjoyed taking his family on long, elaborately planned road trips around the US and Canada. He was an avid golfer (and quick to mention his three holes-in-one), a voracious reader of historical books and mystery novels, and a devoted family man who seldom missed a ballgame or concert involving his sons - or later, his grandsons, Trevor and Peter. In his last decade, Allan was afflicted with Multiple System Atrophy, a neurodegenerative disorder that eventually took his life. He is survived by Jane, his beloved wife of 56 years, his son Jon (with wife Lynn Cockett and stepdaughter Hannah White, Huntingdon, PA), son Joel (with wife Lisa and sons Trevor & Peter, Lakeville), and his brother & sister-in-law, Spencer & Gay Minear (Fridley). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, memorial services are being postponed indefinitely. Gifts of tribute can be directed to the Struthers Parkinson's Center in Golden Valley.

2020-07-23 Scholljegerdes, Suzanne L

Suzanne L Scholljegerdes 1947-2020

On July 23, 2020, Suzanne Lorraine Scholljegerdes passed away suddenly from a heart attack in her home. She was born on September 28, 1947. At 72 years of age, she was full of love for her family and friends. A lifelong Waseca area native, Susie was well-loved in her small town. Susie was the mother of four children and grandmother to six grandchildren. In addition to working a part-time job, remodeling her home, and traveling, she always made time for a three hour coffee visit. She looked forward to providing support and love for her family. She was a dedicated mother and worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for her kids and looked forward to caring for her grandkids.

Susie was a lifelong member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Otisco, a previous committee member, worker at ice cream socials, and a Sunday School teacher. Susie loved being busy at all times. She rarely took the time to rest and always put the needs of others first. She was always looking for her next travel adventure, home project, and listening ear. Susie grew up and worked on her family’s farm in rural Otisco. She graduated from New Richland High school in 1965 and then attended college in the Twin Cities where she received her Associates Degree. She returned to the Waseca area, married Harlan Gekeler in 1967, and worked on the farm managing the business all while raising four children. She was employed at Brown Printing for over 23 years in the Customer Service Department and Scheduling. Retirement wasn’t an option for her busy lifestyle so she took a part-time job at HyVee. Suzie made friends everywhere she went and enjoyed talking with friends and neighbors in the community.

She had a wonderfully dry sense of humor, loved traveling to new cities, camping, and taking care of her three cats in her home in Waseca. She is preceded in death by her father & mother, Willard & Bettye Scholljegerdes, and her brother, James. She is survived by her four children, Renee Schmidt (Steve) of St. Peter, MN; Cynthia Chelgren (Brent) of Edina, MN; Julie Van Den Bos (Mark) of Henderson, NV; and Andrew Gekeler of Farmington, MN; six grandchildren, Emile, Lexi, Ty, Alex, Jesper, and Jorgen. She is also survived by siblings Joyce Routh, Donna Jean Bauman, Carol Ann Matz, Patti Kalis and Amy Alvis, and her boyfriend, Randy Baumgard.

Susie’s favorite song was “Walk Of Life” by Dire Straights. Please join us in a celebration of the life of our beloved Mother.

Visitation will be held at Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca on Friday, July 31, 2020, from 4-7 PM. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2020, at 11:00 AM at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Otisco with visitation starting at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at the Otisco Cemetery.

2020-06-19 Oliver, Irene Mary Oliver

Irene Mary Oliver 1916-2020

IRENE MARY OLIVER, age 104, of Waseca, died peacefully on Friday, June 19, 2020 at Koda Living Community in Owatonna.

Irene Oliver was born on January 31, 1916, in Cylinder, Iowa to Harvey and Mary (Kajewski) Oliver. At the age of five, her parents moved the family to Waseca. Irene attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and continued her education at Commercial College in Mankato.

Irene worked in the office of Dr. O.J. Swenson for 31 years. She then worked as a part time bookkeeper for Hasselquist Pontiac Buick until the business was closed. She was a member of Our Gang Club where she served as a board member for eight years and was active with the Senior Center and Art Council in Waseca. Irene was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca where she was active with WCCW. She loved to travel, play bridge, golf and socialize at Lakeside Country Club. Irene always looked forward to hosting her special Easter dinners with family and driving her car. Although Irene was never married nor had any children she always held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews. Blessed be her memory.

Survived by two siblings: Jacqueline Olson of Blooming Prairie, and Tommie Sotebeer of Windom; many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Bill, Harvey and Mike; sisters: Rosellia, Helen and Rita.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at St. Columbanus Catholic Cemetery in Blooming Prairie.

2020-04-10 Welna, Donald A

Donald Alphonse Welna, DDS 1927-2020

Donald Welna slipped peacefully into eternity on April 10, 2020. He was born in Holdingford, MN, on September 17, 1927, graduated from De La Salle High School in 1945, and served three years in the U.S. Navy. In 1950, Don met Harriet Healy and they married at Christmastime 1951 at the Basilica of Saint Mary. In 1954 he graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and he and Harriet settled for many happy years in Waseca, MN. It was an idyllic heartland setting for raising their nine children. Don served the community as a public health professional, practicing dentistry with his brother for almost 40 years. He served on the school board and was a strong supporter of Waseca’s AFS international student exchange program.

In 1994, Don and Harriet returned to the Twin Cities, moving to an apartment in St. Paul with a birds-eye view of the Mississippi River valley. In recent years, they have been residing downriver at the Marian Residence, on a high bluff overlooking the Mississippi. The family has deeply appreciated the devoted care Don received there.

Don’s fond recollection of playing coronet with the Navy Band, marching down Chicago’s State Street, was evidence of what would become his wide-ranging enjoyment of music. He forever imbued the family’s Easter and Christmas traditions with the beauty of Handel’s Messiah. And he sparked many a living room parade for generations of children high-stepping to John Philip Sousa.

Don brought skill, precision, and excellence to his life’s work and those qualities were evident in everything he undertook. No project was too daunting, including renovation of the family’s home. Not surprisingly, his basement workbench was well-equipped with counterparts to the drills and dental tools in his operatories. Don was also a lifelong advocate of learning. Over the years he encouraged a succession of teens and young adults to strengthen intercultural awareness through study, travel, and work abroad, subsequently warmly welcoming host families from afar into his own.

Don’s calm composure, deep integrity, and fine mind, his quick humor, exacting brevity, and caring presence in our lives will be greatly missed. We love you. You are a part of us all. You will forever be in our hearts.

Don was predeceased by parents Anna and Alphonse, dear son John, brothers Virgil, William, Jerome (sister-in-law Jeanne) and brother-in-law Thomas Healy.

He is survived by his beloved wife Harriet and loving children, Christopher (Betsy Station), Mary Panke (Dennis), David (Kathleen Wheaton), Elizabeth Hoffman (James), Anne McLaughlin (George), Thomas (Ann Holt), Jane (Robert Fox), and Sarah (Jackson Dube), seventeen cherished grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Sisters Jane Lins (Stan), Lois Mayou (Joseph), and sisters-in-law Mrs. William Welna (Patricia), Mrs. Virgil Welna (Patricia), Theresa Healy, Mary Mahon (Joseph), many cousins, nephews and nieces.

Memorials may be directed to Catholic Charities. The family will arrange a celebration of his life at a future date.

2020-02-05 Bluhm, Robert D

Robert D. Bluhm 1944–2020

Robert D. “Bob” Bluhm, 75, of Effingham, IL, passed away surrounded by the love of his family, on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2020 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2020 prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be held in First Lutheran Cemetery, Waldorf, MN at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to Hope Lodge, 4215 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108 in memory of Bob Bluhm. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.

Robert was born on July 17, 1944, in Waseca, Minnesota, the son of Edward and Evelyn (Voigtlander) Bluhm. He married Joyce Allen on May 28, 1994 in Mt Vernon, IL.

Bob’s family was from Minnesota and his heart remained there. He grew up on a farm in Waldorf, Minnesota. Bob owned Bob’s Barber Shop in Owatonna, MN from 1964-1975 before continuing his career with Daycoa Lighting and then as a Division Manager for Philips. He also was an electrical sales rep and after retirement drove a semi-truck. He was President of the Owatonna Jaycees from 1974-75 and also the Snowmobile Association in 1974. He was on the Steele County Sheriff’s Snowmobile Search & Rescue team and the Christian County Sheriff’s Association from 1976-1982. He was an Elder with Trinity Lutheran Church of Taylorville, IL and very proud that he was on the Faribault, MN 1964 Men’s Fast Pitch Softball National Championship team. He enjoyed being outdoors doing yard work. He loved to drive, camp, travel, party, and cook. When Bob was relaxing at his house, he loved to watch classic western movies (especially John Wayne) and search the internet for motorhomes and cars. He always had a joke to tell or two or three. It gave him great joy to have family and lots of people around. He was affiliated with the First Baptist Church in Effingham.

Bob is survived by his wife, Joyce Bluhm of Effingham; son, Dennis (Anita) Bluhm of Oshkosh, WI; daughter, Shari (Tom) Magee of Mascoutah, IL, stepchildren, Julie Ohnesorge (fiancé, Jonathan Hoene) of Dieterich, IL, Sherri (Dave) Mahon of Effingham, IL, Jarek Steele (special friend, Barb Beadles) of St. Louis, MO, and JoAnna (Jon) Mooney of Effingham, IL; grandsons, Kevin Magee, Matthew Bluhm, Ryan Bluhm, Brian Magee, Tyler Ohnesorge, Myles Baker, Knighton Clark, Cody Denton, Daegan Mooney and Braylon Mooney; sisters, Ardis Johnson and Joan Bluhm both of Minnesota; nieces and nephews and hundreds of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; great-granddaughter, Lydia Denton; sisters, Beverly in infancy and Sheila Peterson; and brother, Barton Bluhm.

(with additions by Bob's daughter Shari Bluhm Magee)