Lilian Nattestad, 83
Lilian J. Nattestad was born on April 15, 1914 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, the daughter of Otto G. and Agnes (Olson) Johnson. She graduated from Brandon High School in 1932 and then attended and graduated from the Duluth School of Nursing in 1935. On December 23, 1938 Lilian was united in marriage to Fredric I. Nattestad in Brandon. The couple then lived in Des Moines, Iowa for a short time before moving to Minneapolis when Lilian began her career as an industrial nurse for Prudential Insurance Company where she was employed for 23 years.
Lilian spent much time tending for her roses (gardening) and also pursued travel throughout her life. In August of 1986 she moved to the Knute Nelson Memorial Home where she continued to live until her death on December 31, 1997.
Lilian is survived by brother: Winston Johnson of Brandon; four nieces and two nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Warren Curtis Johnson and her husband Fredric who died on July 31, 1971.
Funeral services were held on Monday, January 5, 1998 at First Lutheran Church in St. Louis Park at 11 a.m. Interment
was in Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis. Officiating was Reverend John Hinderlie. Organist was Leonard Danek and soloist, Dorothy Danek.
Pallbearers were Paul Johnson, David Johnson, Loren Bailey, Susan Johnson, Ruth Hystead and Karen Johnson.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
Vernon Olson, 87
Vernon Olson, 87, of Minnetonka and formerly of Alexandria, died January 4, 1998 at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel in Alexandria with Reverend Ken Thiele officiating. Interment
will be in Kinkead Cemetery. Friends may call at the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
John 'Roger' Moe, 73
John Roger Moe was born on July 18, 1924, the son of Johnnie and Mabel (Ranstedt) Moe. He attended grade school in Solem Township and graduated from Kensington High School.
Roger was united in marriage to Grace Russell on February 14, 1965. Throughout his lifetime Roger worked as a carpenter and helped others with their projects.
Mr. Moe died on Friday, January 2, 1998 in Alexandria. He is survived by his wife, Grace of Farwell; step children: Carol Hanson of Malvem, Pennsylvania; Arlys Smith of Laguna Vista, Texas; Sharon Munoz of Grafton, North Dakota; Wallace Russell of Apple Valley; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; two brothers: Lyle Moe of Willmar and David Moe of Kensington.
He was preceded in death by his parents and step son, Wayne Russell.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 6, 1998, 2 p.m. at the Solem Lutheran Church in Solem Township with Reverend James Radatz officiating.
Honorary Pallbearers were Delmore Gustafson, Clifford Peterson, George Volkert, Bob Volkert, Bob Torgerson and Einar Bakke.
Pallbearers were his grandsons: David Phelps, Randy Phelps, Brent Phelps, Craig Phelps, Kevin Russell, Mark Russell, Bob Russell and Tim Russell.
Interment
was at the Solem Lutheran Cemetery. Services were directed by Petermeier's Alexandria Funeral Home.
Rholene Salisbury, 76
Rholene Salisbury was born October 4, 1921 in Clinton, Minnesota to Henry and Rhobie (Schell) Haas.
On June 6, 1942 she married Richard Nelson of Ortonville. From this union was born a son, Richard Nelson, Jr. Following the death of her first husband she married Elery Salisbury on June 26, 1946. From this union three daughters and six sons were born.
After her children were grown she owned and operated Taco John's in Alexandria for seven years. She then served as a cook and companion for seasonal residents in Alexandria.
Rholene enjoyed many athletic activities, such as softball, golf, bowling, fishing and was an avid Twins fan.
Her strongest conviction was her faith. After accepting Christ at a Billy Graham Crusade she dedicated her life to service and ministry which included short-term mission trips to Florida and Mexico as well as supporting a child in India through World Vision.
Her generosity and service to others was represented by the many lives she touched. After raising her own children she became involved with the Foster Grandparent program and served as a foster parent and opened her home as an emergency shelter. Her life demonstrated what Christ taught His followers. She will have many jewels in her crown.
Rholene passed away on December 26, 1997 at her son's home in Big Lake.
Rholene is survived by sons: Richard Nelson, Jr. (Beth) of Orono; Lynn (Carolyn) Salisbury of Big Lake; Lee Salisbury of Hoffman; Neil (Janet) Salisbury of Ellsworth, Maine; Noel Salisbury of Dallas, Texas; David (Pat) Salisbury of Alexandria; Alan Salisbury of Montrose; daughters: Ardee Craig-Rosencrantz and husband Jim of Rockford; Lori Keller of Oakdale; brothers: Henry Haas of Mahtomedi; Donald Haas of Sun City, Arizona; David Hass of Plano, Illinois; sisters: Helen Mikkelson of Harvard, Illinois; Naurine Stenzel of Rockton, Illinois; Donna Doll of Ravensdale, Washington; 20 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Preceding Rholene in death were her parents, daughter Ellen, and two brothers, Robert and Richard.
Funeral services were held Monday, December 29, 1997 at the First Baptist Church in Alexandria at 11 a.m. Interment
was in the Clinton Cemetery, Clinton. Reverend Daryl Knappen officiated with Jim Pennie, organist and Dwayne Soderholm, soloist.
Pallbearers were Reed Salisbury, Kevin Salisbury, Gene Haas, Dwayne Haas, Eric Jergenson, and Gary Elvecrog.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
John Schmitz, 28
John Patrick "Pat" Schmitz, 28, of North Mankato, Minnesota, formerly of Villard died on Sunday, January 4, 1998 at Immanuel St. Joseph Hospital, Mankato from injuries sustained in a fall.
Pat was born in Glenwood on October 7, 1969 to John and Jean (Swenman) Schmitz. He graduated from Lakewood High School in St. Petersburg, Florida and attended Moorhead State College and South Central Technical College. He worked for Farm and City Construction in St. Clair for several years and was currently employed with Gosewisch Construction. He enjoyed being with friends, working, snowmobiling, motorcycling, lifting weights, basketball, football and hunting. He was a member of the Villard Methodist Church.
Pat is survived by his fiancee, Sharon Studinski of North Mankato; parents, Jean Schmitz of St. Petersburg, FL and John Schmitz and special friend Nancy Lyman, both of Cyrus; son, Anthony Frederick of Glenwood; sister, Jill (Steven) Blashack of Alexandria; brother, David Schmitz of Stillwater; grandparents: August Schmitz of Villard and Evelyn O'Toole of St. Petersburg., FL; and niece and nephews: Zachary Blashack, Christopher and Corey Schmitz and Travin and Valerie Schmitz.
He was preceded in death by grandmother, Ada Schmitz; brother, Michael; and uncle Art.
Patrick touched many by his zest for life and genuine concern for others.
Funeral service was on Thursday, January 8, 1998, at 2 p.m. at the Villard Methodist Church. Interment
was in the Lake Amelia Cemetery.
Arrangements were with the Hoplin Funeral Home, Glenwood.
Florence Shippey, 86
Florence Evelyn Swenhaugen was born November 14, 1911 in Walnut Grove, Minnesota, the daughter of Paul and Nettie (Howe) Swenhaugen. She attended school in White Bear Lake. As a young woman she worked as a waitress at restaurants in Starbuck for Henry Hanson. Later she worked at Traveler's Inn at Alexandria. Florence was joined in marriage to Delbert Shippey in Alexandria. She worked for the JC Penney Company as a sales clerk for 40 years and worked another 10 years at Bon Jos in Alexandria before retiring.
Florence was a former member of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and doing crafts.
Florence died at Bethany Home in Alexandria on Thursday, January 1, 1998 at the age of 86. She was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert. Florence is survived by two sisters, Arlene Lofquist of Glenwood and Olive Dahlquist of Starbuck; three brothers, Marvin Swenhaugen of Seneca, IL; Arvid Swenhaugen of Ottawa, IL; and Mayland Swenhaugen of Sun City, AZ; and her special friends, Leo Doebber and Barbara Dehne.
A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 5, 1998 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ with Reverend Lanning Johnson officiating. Music was provided by Marcie Vickerman, soloist and Audrey Palmquist, organist.
Interment
followed in the Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria. Pallbearers were Wayne Dehne, Jake Dehne, Michael Berninghaus, Jerry Lanigan, Larry Gasperlin and Leighton Dahlquist.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
Leila Starkey, 85
Leila Starkey, age 85, of Fargo, North Dakota, died December 24, 1997 at Elim Nursing Home in Fargo, North Dakota. A memorial service was held on Monday, December 29, 1997 at First Lutheran Church in Fargo.
Leila Pilversack was born at Markesan, Wisconsin on May 13, 1912. She grew up and attended school in Miltona, Minnesota. She married John Starkey on July 12, 1931 in Rochester. They farmed near Parkers Prairie. Her husband John died in 1966 at which time she moved to Fargo. Leila was the House Mother at the Theta Chi Fraternity at NDSU from 1968 through 1970. She then worked as the Resident Director at St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo from 1972 through 1982 when she retired.
She is survived by two daughters: Jan (Ted) Shelver, Devils Lake, ND and Jeri (Ken) Magnuson, Fargo; sisters: Grace Nelson, Wayne, NJ; and Elva Pilversack, Winter Park, Florida; three grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo, North Dakota, was in charge of arrangements.
Lenora Strehlo, 88
Lenora Strehlo departed for her heavenly home on Wednesday, December 24, 1997. Funeral services were held on Saturday, December 27, 1997 at 2 p.m. at the Erdahl Lutheran Church with Reverend Ruth Hetland officiating. Burial was in the Erdahl Lutheran Cemetery.
Providing music were Renee Mohagen, organist and Dean Ellis, soloist.
Casketbearers were Greg Ellingson, Thomas LeSage, Steven Gerhardson, Shawn Simonson, Jeff Driggins and Gordon Lea.
Lenora was born on All Saints Day, November 1, 1909 in Erdahl, Minnesota to Carl Annaus and Ida (Thompson) Westboe. She was baptized and confirmed in the Erdahl Lutheran Church. Lenora graduated from high school in Elbow Lake in 1927 and continued her education at Park Region College for teacher training in 1928. She taught for two years at District 44 and three years at District 58 in rural Erdahl. On January 31, 1934, Lenora was married to Arnold G.W. Strehlo in Elbow Lake. The couple lived in Erdahl for many years. Mr. Strehlo passed away on September 26, 1972. Lenora lived in the Tower Apartments, then Southview Apartments and most recently a resident of the Crestview Manor in Evansville.
Mrs. Strehlo enjoyed the community of Erdahl, her church, and loved writing. She was a Sunday school teacher for many years, an ELCW officer, 4-H leader and Study Club charter member.
She is survived by her children, Lou Ann (Mrs. Arlie) Ellingson of Evansville, Beverly (Mrs. Gordon) Gerhardson of Brooklyn Center, and Arlen (Sheila) Strehlo of Lindstrom; nine grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Doris Driggins of Morris, three sisters-in-law, Irma Barrett of Cambria, Evelyn Strehlo of Minnesota Lake and Grace Strehlo of Evansville.
Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, one brother in infancy, brother Kenneth Westboe and one great grandson, Lucas Moll.
Arrangements were with the Erickson-Smith Funeral Home, Elbow Lake.
Mary Tolifson, 90
Mary Tolifson was born on November 9, 1907 at Melvin, Iowa the daughter of George and Gertie (Lutterman) Defries. In 1919 she moved with her parents to Windom, where she was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith.
On December 24, 1938 she married Ernest Tolifson. They farmed in the Windom area until 1949 when they moved to Alexandria. There they owned and operated the Maryland Resort on Lake Mary. In 1956 they moved to the Brandon area where they farmed and had different interests.
Mary died on December 24, 1997 at the Knute Nelson Memorial Home in Alexandria at the age of 90. She is survived by four sons and one daughter: Nathan and wife Madeline of Alexandria; Russell and wife Shirley of Kensington; Donald and wife Belinda of Phoenix, Arizona; Gerald and wife Sonia of Glenwood; Doris and husband Roger Garmon of St. Cloud; 15 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; two sisters and one brother.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Ernest, four brothers and one sister.
Funeral service was held on Monday, December 29, 1997 at 11 a.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church in Brandon with Reverend Alden Backman officiating. Music was provided by Bernie Thoennes who served as soloist and Audrey Palmquist, organist.
Interment
was in the Brandon Cemetery. Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria, was in charge or arrangements.
Effie Zavadil, 85
Effie Zavadil was born on September 24, 1912 in Iowa the daughter of P.O. and Anna Wickstrom. She attended school in Iowa and later rural District 50 near Alexandria. She grew to womanhood in the Alexandria area and later moved to South Minneapolis where she worked at Swedish Hospital, retiring in 1977. Effie moved back to Alexandria in 1996. She was a very religious lady who was an active member of Assembly of God - Lake Street Tabernacle Church. She died on December 26, 1997 at the Douglas County Hospital in Alexandria at the age of 85 years.
Effie is survived by son: Darwen (Yvonne) of El Cajon, California; sister: Viola Sellin of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Pam (Todd) Rothenberger of Alexandria; and Mark (Lori) Zavadil of El Cajon, California.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Lee, Allen, Rolland and Carl; and three sisters: Elsie, Betty and Eleanore.
Funeral service was held on December 30, 1997 at 10 a.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend James Resa officiating. Kim Byrne provided the music.
Interment
was in the Kinkead Cemetery. Anderson Funeral Home of Alexandria handled the arrangements.
Elsie Anderson, 94
Elsie Mae (Rayl) Anderson was born on April 14, 1903 in Iowa, the daughter of Alvin and Mary Jane (Reevis) Rayl. She attended grade and high school in Iowa and received her degree in nursing.
Elsie was united in marriage to William E. Anderson in 1928 in Grant County.
Mrs. Anderson died on Friday, December 12, 1997 at the Grant County Health Center in Elbow Lake. She is survived by three children: Chuck Anderson of Boyceville, WI; Alma Warlich of White Bear Lake; Wilma Oss of Columbia, Missouri; six grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and two sisters: Ruth and Edna.
Memorial services were held on Monday, January 5, 1998, 1 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Elbow Lake with Reverend Louis Koerselmann and Reverend William O. Gilbert officiating.
Inurnment will be at the Lawrence Cemetery in Wendell. Services were directed by Petermeier's Alexandria Funeral Home.
Sidonia Brueske, 88
Sidonia Brueske, 88, of Alexandria and formerly of Garfield, died January 4, 1998 at the Douglas County Hospital. A funeral service will be held Friday, January 9, 1998, 11:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria with interment
to follow in the St. John's Lutheran Cemetery at Garfield. Visitation will take place on Thursday from 4 to 7:30 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
Charles Chan, 93
Charles Matthew Chan was born February 20, 1904 in Lake Reno Township to Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Chan. He attended rural school and then began his life's work as a farmer.
Charles passed away December 23, 1997 at the Pelican Lake Nursing Home in Ashby. He was 93 years of age.
He was preceded in death by a son, Daniel. Charles is survived by three children: Jerry Chan of Minneapolis, Harlan Chan of Cyrus and Kathy Strand of Morris. Also surviving him are 11 grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home of Alexandria.
Roselyn (Giles) Dagenais, 73
Roselyn was born on February 19, 1924 in Little Falls, Minnesota, the daughter of Stanley and Johanna (Nowak) Yourczek. She was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Faith. Rosie graduated from Brainerd High school.
Roselyn was united in marriage to Richard Giles, to this union three sons were born: Richard Jr., Mike and Tony. During her lifetime Rosie worked as a cook at three different restaurants. She was known to many as Mama Rosa.
Rosie will always be remembered as an excellent mother, whose children always came first. She will also be remembered for her generosity, cooking Thanksgiving dinner at the Salvation Army.
Roselyn died on Wednesday, January 7, 1998. She is survived by three sons: Richard Giles Jr., Mike Giles, Tony Giles; two sisters: Virginia (Jean) Dotzler, Isabelle (Issie) Callahan; two brothers: Adrian (Bud) Yourczek, Jerome (Jerry) Yourczek; and two grandchildren, Terri and Tommy.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, January 10, 1998, at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Father Gregory Mastey officiating.
Pallbearers were Ken Walsh, Fred Callahan, Bill Dotzler, Joann Apling, Mary Hubert and Orville Schnetzer.
Interment
was at St. Mary's Cemetery. Services were directed by Petermeier's Alexandria Funeral Home.
Lester Griesert, 67
Lester R. Griesert, 67, resident of Parkers Prairie, Minnesota, died on January 4, 1998 at Yuma Medical Center in Yuma, Arizona.
Lester was born July 15, 1930 to Emil and Grace (Terhark) Griesert in Tracy. He grew up in Marshall where he attended school through the 8th grade. As a teenager he moved with his family to Glenwood. In February of 1951 he entered the United States Army and served three years as a paratrooper at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. On May 11, 1952 he married Jean Anderson at the Glenwood Lutheran Church in Glenwood. They made their home in Glenwood and Minneapolis before moving to the farm near Parkers Prairie in January of 1958. Lester worked as a brick layer until he retired. Lester was an active member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in West Miltona. He worked for the Laborers of Christ, building churches and Christian schools after his retirement. In 1994 he sold his hobby farm and moved to his present home on Lake Irene where he enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Lester is survived by wife Jean Griesert of Parkers Prairie; daughters: Vicky (Brian) Arvidson of Eagle Bend; Beverly Griesert of Cannon Falls; Cynthia (Craig) Rostamo of Bloomington; Wanda (Joe) Frieler of Savage; son: CSM2 E5 Michael (Robin) Griesert of Atlantic Beach, Florida; 10 grandchildren; sisters: Donna Hagen of Detroit Lakes; Dorothy (Pat) Rugh of Los Osos, CA; Marie (Bill) Ogdahl of Glenwood; brothers: Merlin Griesert (Bev) of Healdsburg, CA; Delbert Griesert (Bev) of Robbinsdale; Dale Griesert of Milton, FL; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter Sharon.
Funeral services were on January 10, 1998 at 11 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, West Miltona with Pastor Daniel Woodring officiating. Organist was Katie Jahnke and soloist Lynn Sutherland. Interment
was in the St. Paul's Lutheran Cemetery, West Miltona.
Pallbearers were Steven Hagen, Wm. Curt Ogdahl, Nathan Arvidson, Bonnie Rostamo, Jeremy Arvidson and Don Anderson.
Honorary pallbearers were Roger Affeldt, Neil Garrett, Ed Faber, Joe Hellerman, Charles Betterman and Dale Downing.
Arrangements were with the Markham-LaMere Funeral Home, Parkers Prairie.
Elna Karger, 86
Elna Karger, age 86, of Parkers Prairie, died Monday, January 5, 1998 at the St. Williams Living Center in Parkers Prairie. Funeral services will be Friday, January 9, 11 a.m. at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. Interment
will be at the Elmo Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, January 8 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Markham-LaMere Funeral Home in Parkers Prairie and one hour prior to the service at the church.
Melvin Kracht, 72
Melvin was born on December 15, 1925 in Courtney, North Dakota, the son of Eric and Emma (Krueger) Kracht. He was baptized and confirmed in Courtney. As a young man his family moved to Minnesota.
He married Arlene Nelson on September 9, 1950 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria. The couple farmed north of Nelson in the early years of their marriage on the farmplace Melvin owned for 45 years. They moved to Nelson in 1961. Melvin later took courses to earn his GED. He became a plumber-pipefitter and worked at this trade until his retirement in 1987.
Melvin passed away on Monday, January 5, 1998. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Arlene; children: Richard (Irene) Kracht of Dubuque, Iowa; Judy (Larry) Ahlbrecht of Nelson; John (Betty) Kracht of Columbia Heights; Randy (Paulette) Kracht of Alexandria; Susan (Steven) Proell of Greenwald; 12 grandchildren; and sister, Betty Judkins of Sun City, Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eric and Emma; brothers: Ernie, Herbert and twin brother Alvin; and an infant granddaughter Sarah.
Mr. Kracht was an active resident of the City of Nelson serving in city government for 25 years as mayor, councilman and city clerk. He was a member of the Nelsons Men's Club and worked in his retirement years as the city maintenance person doing the towns mowing and snow removal.
Melvin was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and served over the years on the boards of education and church properties. Melvin was especially proud of his grandchildren and their achievements.
He was an avid gardener, planting a large variety of trees. He also enjoyed following the Carlos baseball team. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and neighbors.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 8, 1998, 11:30 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Reverend Stephen Bruening officiating. Organist was JoNette Brogaard.
Pallbearers were his nephews Gary Kracht, Larry Kracht, Ray Kluver, Gary Nelson, David Nelson and Clyde Nelson.
Interment
was at the Sunset Memorial Park in Alexandria. Services were directed by Petermeier's Alexandria Funeral Home.
Rose Middendorf, 50
Rose Mary H. Middendorf, age 50, of Melrose, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, January 6, 1998 at her home. Mass of Christian Burial was at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 1998 at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Melrose. The Reverends Art Hoppe, Vincent Lieser and Greg Lieser officiating with burial at Saint Rose of Lima Cemetery in Saint Rosa.
Rose Mary was born September 27, 1947 in Lake Henry, Minnesota to Alfred and Julitta (Meyer) Lieser. She was united in marriage to Lawrence "Lorney" Middendorf on May 28, 1966 in Lake Henry. The couple lived in the Saint Rosa area and Rose Mary was employed by Kraft Foods West in Melrose for 13 years. She was a member of the Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Saint Rosa. She was also a member of the Saint Rosa Catholic Aid Society, the Saint Rosa Christian Mothers, the Melrose Hospital Auxiliary, the Melrose American Legion Auxiliary, the Albany Sportsmen's Club and the Roving Hillbillies Snowmobile Club.
She is survived by: husband Lawrence "Lorney" Middendorf of Melrose; five children: Bruce Middendorf and wife Teri of Alexandria; Scott Middendorf and wife Sandra of Saint Cloud; Brad Middendorf of Minnetonka; Ryan and Nathan Middendorf at home in Melrose; six sisters and four brothers: Eldred Lieser and wife Marilyn of Paynesville; Lee Lieser and wife Kathy of Farming; Gary Lieser and wife Sandi of Saint Martin; Fred Lieser and wife Sandy of Saint Joseph; Rita Nietfeld and husband Ray of Belgrade; Marlene Athmann and husband Norm of Paynesville; Julie Fischer and husband Vic of Paynesville; Dellie Walz and husband Duane of Foley; Pat Schoenberg and husband Tom of Saint Cloud; Sharon Christen and husband Dennis of Albany; and grandchildren: Miranda and Bailey Middendorf.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Casket bearers were Doug Walz, Kelly Schoenberg, Amy Tschida, Eric and Tobe Lieser and Randy Athmann.
Cross bearer was Ben Christen.
Honorary bearers were Mary Toenyan, Char Westendorf, Judy Ritter, Rosie Kerfeld, Jeanette Kerfeld, Sue Toenyan, Irene Boeckermann, Diane Kerfeld, Verla Herzog, Linda Bauer and Judy Hennen.
Arrangements were with the Patton-Schad Funeral Service of Melrose.
Iona Julia Norden, 79
Iona Julia Norden was born May 17, 1918 in Spruce Hill Township, Douglas County, Minnesota. She was the daughter of Francis and Olga (Johnson) Engstran. Iona attended rural school and graduated from Alexandria High School. Prior to her marriage, Iona worked as a cashier at the Andria Theater in Alexandria.
On December 4, 1941 Iona was united in marriage with Dr. Laverne Norden at Svea Lutheran Church, Alexandria. Following his discharge from military service in 1946 the couple made their home in St. Paul where Dr. Norden established his dentistry practice. The couple moved to Alexandria in 1976. Dr. Norden died in 1982 and Iona continued to live at their home on Maple Lake until her death.
Iona had a musical talent and enjoyed playing the piano. She was very interested in politics. Her home on Maple Lake afforded her the opportunity and enjoyment of caring for animals.
Iona is survived by two sisters: Mabel Aaser of Osakis and Doris (Mrs. Larry) Fender of Cedaredge, CO; sister-in-law Maxine Engstran of Minneapolis and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband and brother Warren Engstran.
A funeral service was held January 10, 1998 at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel in Alexandria with Reverend Dan Christ officiating. Kim Byrne provided music.
Interment
followed in Evergreen Cemetery with Tim Aaser, Dan Aaser, Jon Fender, Reed Engstran, Ross Engstran and Judd Hoff acting as pallbearers.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home.
Richard Rude, 66
Richard (Dick) James Rude, age 66, died at his home in Alexandria on January 6, 1998. Dick was born September 27, 1931 at Perley, Minnesota the son of Iver and Martha (Qualley) Rude. Following graduation from the Borup High School in 1949, Dick worked on farms in the area. He then began employment with the American Crystal Sugar Plant in Moorhead.
On April 10, 1959, Richard and Ruth Rasmussen were united in marriage at Twin Valley. Three daughters, Rhonda, Renae and Roselyn were born to them.
Dick worked for the Farmers Union Oil Company at Ulen until 1961 and then began management of the company's station in Browerville. The family moved to Starbuck in 1966. In September of 1976 Dick started his work at the Farmers Union Oil Company in Morris and the family moved there in 1977. During the 29 years that he worked for Farmers Union Dick delivered propane gas, serviced furnaces and did chemical spraying. He later worked for the Boelke Plumbing and Heating as an appliance serviceman until being diagnosed with cancer in 1988. Dick and Ruth became residents of Alexandria in November of 1997.
Dick had many interests including fishing, hunting, gardening and sports. He also spent considerable time volunteering as a driver for senior citizens and assisted them with income tax preparation. He was known as the family handyman, but the time he spent with his grandchildren was of foremost importance to him.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Irwin; and two sisters: Irene Snyder and Doris Merkins.
Surviving him are his wife, Ruth; three daughters: Rhonda and husband Doug Navratil of Alexandria; Renae and husband Bill Nepper of Glenwood; Roselyn and husband Dan Codner of Isanti; four brothers: Joe Rude of Temple, TX; Chester Rude of Ada; Donald Rude of Borup; Iver Rude of Sun Lakes, AZ; sister: Helen and husband Pete Hekman of Ada; eight grandchildren: Andy and Aaron Navratil; Kalyn Nepper; and Adam, Jason Darren, Lisa and Linsey Codner; and also many nieces, nephews and friends.
A funeral service was held on January 9, 1998 at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel in Alexandria with Loren Quick and Craig Winquist officiating. Vocal duet music was provided by Rodney and DeLoris Larson accompanied by Ruth Anderson. DeLoris Larson also served as organist.
Darrell Gulbrandson, Hans Ekman, Richard Bullick, Curtis Beckler, Paul Anderson and Daryl Quick served as pallbearers. Interment
was in Kinkead Cemetery.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
Beatrice Yell, 85
Beatrice Yell, 85, resident of Parkers Prairie, Minnesota died on January 7, 1998 at the Glacial Ridge Hospital in Glenwood.
Beatrice was born December 25, 1912 to Conrad and Gertrude (Stoleaas) Peterson in Cooperstown, North Dakota where she attended school. She was united in marriage to Floyd Yell on January 3, 1931 at Kensington. They lived in Kensington, Herman and Barrett before moving to Parkers Prairie in 1956 where they lived until entering the Glenwood Retirement Village in 1996. She was a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. Beatrice enjoyed her family and loved their get-togethers.
She is survived by her husband Floyd Yell of Parkers Prairie; daughters: Mona (Lloyd) Johnson of Clear Lake; Eunice (Arlen) Anderson of Glenwood; Beverly Lee of Alexandria; Linda Yell of Minneapolis; sons: Dennis (Sue) Yell of Kasson; Arlen (Cynthia) Yell of Alexandria; 16 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; sister Lillian Harris of Porterville, CA; brother, Johnny Peterson of Everett, WA; and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Kenneth Peterson and sister Pauline.
Funeral services were held on January 10, 1998 at 2:30 p.m. at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie with Pastor Jim Gronewold officiating. Organist was Ethel Lorine. Interment
was in the Swedish Lutheran Cemetery, Parkers Prairie Township.
Pallbearers were her grandchildren Gary Johnson, Dana Anderson, Mark Anderson, Scott Lee, Wayne Anderson, Mitchell Anderson, Garrett Yell, and Grant Yell.
Arrangements were with the Markham-LaMere Funeral Home in Parkers Prairie.
Rodney Johnson, 43
Rodney Lee Johnson died at the age of 43 in Minneapolis, Minnesota on January 10, 1998 of cancer.
He was born in Osakis to Ivan and Esther Johnson. Rodney battled kidney disease as a child and spent much time in and out of hospitals and foster care. He loved to play horseshoes and drew many blue ribbons. He also enjoyed fishing. Rodney will be missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his special friend, Barb Quinn of Minneapolis; his mother Esther Johnson of Washington, formerly of Alexandria; sisters and brothers: Faye and Roger Helms of Kerkhoven; Darrell and Cathy Johnson of Tacoma, WA; Thelma Johnson of Alexandria; Jeanette and Rueb Moser of Princeton; Genny Johnson of Milaca; Mike Johnson of Mississippi; Everette Johnson of Princeton; Arvilla and Joe Wheelhouse of Rapid City SD; and many nieces and nephews.
Rodney is preceded in death by his father Ivan; great grandparents; grandparents; niece Gail; and uncles, Cliff, Raymond, and Bill Johnson.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 15, 1998 at Living Word Compassion Center in Minneapolis. Burial was at Lakewood Cemetery.
Judith Kari, 42
Mrs. Carl (Judith) Kari, 42, of rural Elbow Lake, Minnesota, passed away Monday, January 12, 1998 at the Grant County Health Center in Elbow Lake. Funeral services were held on Friday, January 16, 1998 at 1 p.m. at the Country Bible Church, rural Ashby, with Reverend Steven R. Quernemoen officiating. Burial was in the Erdahl Cemetery, Laurel McDonald was soloist and special music was also provided by the Country Bible Church Worship Team.
Pallbearers were Micah Beaumia, Michael Beaumia, Chad Danzeisen, Brad Deutschman, Dan Goergen and Gene Hanson.
Judith Kay (Nordquist) Kari was born September 29, 1955 in Wadena, Minnesota to Martin F. and Louise (Henry) Nordquist. Judy was baptized as an infant at home in Sebeka and water baptized as an adult at the Country Bible Church, Ashby. On February 14, 1976, Judy was married to Carl Orin Kari in Clarissa. Judy was a devoted wife to her husband Carl and mother to her son Ryan. Her mother and extended family were also very important to her.
Judy was very active in her church. What she enjoyed doing the most was sharing her faith in Jesus Christ. She did this through personal street ministry, teaching Sunday school, prayer meetings and local Bible studies. Judy was attending Country Bible Church School of Ministry and would have graduated in May of 1998. She also enjoyed flowers, both inside her home and in the garden; she looked at them as thoughts from her heavenly Father.
Judy will be sadly missed by her husband Carl and son Ryan Lee Kari of Elbow Lake; her mother Louise Tullis of Wadena; four brothers: Dwaine Nordquist of Elk River; Larry (Brenda) Nordquist of Clarissa; John (Julie) Nordquist of Vergas; David (Melanie) Nordquist of Wheaton; two sisters: Cheryl (Chuck) Butler of Elk River; Nancy Moske of Wadena; 30 nieces and nephews and many, many friends.
She was preceded in death by her father Martin Nordquist, an infant brother, and maternal and paternal grandparents.
Arrangements were with the Erickson-Smith Funeral Home in Elbow Lake.
Ida Krueger, 104
Ida Krueger was born May 12, 1893 in Holloway, Minnesota, the daughter of Herman and Mathilda (Ruether) Krueger. She grew up in Holloway and attended high school there. After graduating from high school she worked at the Fisher Department Store in Holloway and later at the Leader Store in Appleton. In 1928, she moved to Osakis and began working at the Herberger's Store there. When Herberger's Department Store was built in Alexandria, Ida accepted a transfer. She became the buyer for ready-to-wear clothing for ladies and children. She also did the purchasing for the draperies department. After 27 years with Herberger's in Alexandria, Ida retired.
She has been a member of Calvary Lutheran Church since 1945. Ida entered Bethany Home in March of 1988 where she died January 12, 1998. She had recently celebrated her 104th birthday.
Preceding Ida in death were her parents; three brothers: Herman, Otto and William Krueger and a sister, Elizabeth Schulz.
Surviving Ida are a niece, Lucille and husband, David Knapp, Sr. of San Jose, CA; and three great nephews: David Jr. and wife Mary Knapp of San Jose, CA; Gregory and wife Linda Knapp of Morgan Hill CA; and Dr. Jonathan Knapp of San Jose CA.
Funeral services were held January 15, 1998 at Calvary Lutheran Church with Reverend Keith Forrester officiating. Music was provided by Becky Worley, organist and Sandy Buckner, soloist.
Interment
followed in Kinkead Cemetery with Murville Huberty, Herman Felt, Earl Olson, Pete Barthelemy, Jon Barthelemy, Lester Olson and Harland Angen serving as pallbearers.
Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
