Warren Southward > Mother 08.10.14

      Gloria Eleanor Southward, 90, of Alexandria passed away on August 10, 2014, at Bethany Home, where she had resided for several years.

Gloria was born on November 16, 1923 in Carlos Township, Douglas County to Gust and Ellen (Shogren) Mattson. She was baptized and confirmed at Fahlun Lutheran Church in rural Nelson. She attended District 77 school in Carlos Township and graduated from Alexandria High School in 1941. On January 15, 1944, she was united in marriage to Sgt. Herman Southward of Alexandria, who was home on leave from the US Army. They raised their three sons and one daughter in Alexandria. Following Herman’s death in 1977, Gloria worked for many years at the License Bureau, before retiring in 1990.

 Gloria enjoyed cooking, reading, doing crossword puzzles, gardening, and traveling. She was active in her church, Calvary Lutheran in Alexandria, for many years. After retiring, she also volunteered at Bethany Home. Gloria will be remembered as a wonderful cook, kind, gentle, quiet, smart, nonjudgmental, and hardworking. She was very loved by her family and friends and she will be missed greatly.

She was preceded in death by her parents Gust and Ellen Shogren, husband Herman Southward, sisters Ragnhild Olstead, Ethel Nelson, Edith Bolin, and Eunice Gordon, brothers Reuben Mattson and Edwin Mattson, one son-in-law David Scott, several nieces and nephews, and one great-grandson Isaac Pierce.

She is survived by her four children: Dennis (Carol) Southward of Minneapolis, Warren (Nancy) Southward of Binford, North Dakota, Mary Scott of Alexandria, and Thomas Southward of Alexandria. Gloria is also survived by one sister-in-law, Ruth Mattson, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by six granddaughters: Deborah (Fred) Pierce of Fort Collins, Colorado, Melissa (Lucas) Hjelle of St. Paul, Christina Southward of Denver, Colorado, Diana (Dane) Wetterer of Greeley, Colorado, Jennie (Adam) Lanz of Bemidji, and Laura Scott of St. Paul. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren: Noah, Nathan, and Isabelle Pierce of Fort Collins, Colorado, Samuel Hjelle of St. Paul, Dane Jr. and Declan Wetterer of Greeley, Colorado, and Jack Lanz of Bemidji.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 13, 2014, 11:00 AM at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Burial at the Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net

Official Photo > 2014 67-68 Golf Open (July 26)

Back row......Bob Vipond- 67, Loren Backlund -68, Paul McCarten -67, Dennis Hilmer-68, Steve Colby-67, Al Grundei-67,, Tom Vipond- 68, Dennis Stark-68, Kurt Sieve -68, Charlie Olson (Mary lund Olson-68), Gregg Haanen -68, Neil Melton-68, John Hopfner-68

Middle row.......Cher (Metcalf) Colby-68, Kay Bieschke-67, Tom Cihlar-68,  Loren Backlun-68, Dale Yager -67

Front row.....Don Affeldt-67, Bruce Nelson-68, Bill Leuthner-67, John Trenne-67, Tom Hollingsworth-67, Tom Harris-67, Gerry Hesse-67, Ron Carlson-68

Dennis Conn > Sister 06.30.2014

    Conn, Patricia A. Pat or Babe as she was often called by loved ones, died on June 30, 2014.

Pat was born in St. Louis Park on August 22, 1944. As a child, her family moved to Alexandria and carved a homestead out of the dense woods on the west side of Lake Carlos.

Pat graduated with honors from Jefferson High School and earned her Bachelor's degree at St. Benedict's University in St. Joseph, MN. Upon graduation, Pat became a Social Worker for Douglas County and then Hennepin County where she worked until she retired.

Pat made her adult home in St. Paul, MN where she made numerous lifelong friendships. She loved her old apartment on Laurel Ave., a building adjacent to F. Scott Fitzgerald's birthplace which attracted busloads of tourists. In her later years, she was able to restore her apartment and decorate with family momentos and artifacts collected from her travels to Europe and China. She spent many hours absorbed in researching her family tree and was a great source of knowledge. She took great delight in her nieces and nephews and was asking for news of them that she could share with her friends. In her last year of life, she was reunited with her daughter, Lauren and was able to meet Lauren's husband and two children, Olivia and Sawyer. Pat's grandchildren were on prominent display everywhere she made her bed.

Pat is survived by her daughter, Lauren (Kevin) Donnelly; sister, Mary (Jim) Walrath; brothers, Jim (Anita), Dennis (Beckie), Tom (Shelley) and Bob (Cherie).

Private family interment. Memorial service Monday, July 7, 3 PM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 4537 3rd Ave S., Mpls., MN with visitation 1 hour prior to service.

 

Funeral Homes, Planning, and Cremation Services | Washburn-McReavy Hopkins Chapel 952-938-9020 

Dan Waage > Mother 06.14.14

DeLoris June Lee was born June 29, 1928 in Alexandria, MN, the daughter of Mano and Olive Lee. DeLoris grew up in Alexandria where she graduated from high school in 1946.
DeLoris met her husband Walter in 1946 at the Travelers Inn café in downtown Alexandria, which also served as the bus stop, which welcomed the returning soldiers from World War II. One of those returning soldiers was Walter Waage. The very next day he walked into the Blue Ribbon bakery where DeLoris was working and asked her out.
On April 5, 1947 DeLoris and Walter were united in marriage. They were married for 51 years. The couple lived in Los Angeles, CA, Watertown, SD and Tyler, MN for a short time before returning to Alexandria, her hometown that she was proud to be a part of. The couple was blessed with six children, which consisted of five boys and one girl.
DeLoris’ hospitality continued throughout her life. She always welcomed people into her home and made sure no one ever left hungry. DeLoris continued this spirit of generosity throughout her lifetime. She was aware of the blessings God gave her and she wanted to share them with others.
DeLoris’ life was always centered around her faith in God. She was always active in her church and she enjoyed creating and nurturing a strong community of faith. DeLoris and Walter were very active members of the Assembly of God church in Alexandria.
DeLoris was an excellent cook and baker. She was known for her delicious lefse, caramel rolls, breads, potato dumplings, glorified rice and especially her donuts. Cooking and getting together with her relatives was a joy to her.
Following Walter’s death in 1998, DeLoris took several trips with Sandy to visit relatives and friends. Those were very special times. In 2002, while mom was at the Lake Geneva family camp, she began dating Jerome Wold. On February 15, 2003 DeLoris and Jerry were united in marriage and made their home in Alexandria. Almost three years later Jerry died suddenly.
On Saturday, June 14, 2014 DeLoris died at the age of eighty–five years. She was preceded in death by her parents Olive and Mano Lee; her husbands, Walter Waage and Gerald Wold; brothers, Marvin and Norman Lee; and sister, Arlane Schroeder. DeLoris is survived by her children, Mike Waage and wife, Shirley, of Kingsville, TX, Dan Waage and wife, Audrey, of Alexandria, Steven Waage and wife, Carol, of Urbandale, IA, Dave Waage of Baltimore, MD Tim Waage and wife, Dawn, of Washington, MI and Sandra Ihrke and husband, Kevin, of Lakeville, MN; grandchildren, Jennifer Falk and husband, Rich, Virginia Tabot and husband, Scott, Lance Waage and wife, Katie, Karl Waage and wife, Ember, Erik Waage and wife, Elisabeth, Levi Waage and wife, Jessica, Joel Waage, Stephanie Turcotte and husband, Andrew, Nicholas Waage and wife, Danielle, Ryan Waage and wife, Jennifer, Rachel Small and husband, Justin, Jason Waage and wife, Danielle, Jordan Waage, Megan Wulff and husband, Robert, Brittany Kearney and husband, Kevin and Samuel Ihrke; 22 great grandchildren, one brother, Wayne Lee and wife, Gloria, of Alexandria; and one sister, Ruth Elie of Edina, MN.
A funeral service was held Thursday, June 19, 2014 at Living Waters Church in Alexandria. Rev. Tom Elie officiated. Music was provided by Rev. Tom Elie, Virginia Tabot and Mary Anderson. Interment followed in the Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria. Casket bearers were her sons and son-in-law, Mike, Dan, Steven, David and Tim Waage and Kevin Ihrke,
Arrangements were with Anderson Funeral in Alexandria.

Choir Director > Murrae Freng 05.31.14

    Former Alexandria resident Murrae Freng, age 89 of Plymouth, passed away May 31.

Freng was a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead and obtained a music education degree from MacPhail College of Music in Minneapolis.

He served as music director at Brooten Public Schools from 1946 to 1952, before moving to Alexandria to serve as choral director for School District 206 from 1952 to 1965.

During his tenure here, he started an annual Christmas concert in partnership with the school art department, started a clinic/concert tradition with nationally recognized musicians as guest conductors, organized the Jefferson Carolers in 1962, directed the Runic Male Chorus and the First Lutheran Church choir.

Under Freng’s leadership, the Jefferson High School choir was selected to represent Minnesota at the North Central Convention of National Music Educators.

From 1965 to 1970, Freng served as assistant executive director of the Minnesota State High School League, and as executive director from 1970 to 1985.

During that time he developed an extensive girls’ athletic program, originated a football playoff system including the Prep Bowl, established a class system of tournament play, restructured the league’s constitution and bylaws, and merged the private school sector into the league.

Freng retired in 1985 and served as executive director of the Central Lakes Concert Association before moving to Plymouth in 2006.

Some of Freng’s honors include the F. Melius Christiansen Award from the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota in 1986; selected as a charter member of the Minnesota Music Educators Association Hall of Fame; grand marshal of the Vikingland Band Festival in 1989; inducted into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame in 1991 and the Alexandria Public Schools Education Foundation Hall of Fame in 2009.

Freng and his wife, Helen, have four children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

2014 67-68 Open ! July 26 ... Arrowwood GC

www.alex-jhs-67.com/golf2014.html

2013 Tournament Golfers

Jon Trenne > Mother 06.06.14

Myrtle Catherine Trenne was born on July 22, 1917 near Underwood, MN, the daughter of Martin and Minnie (Lofthus) Larson. She was raised near Battle Lake, MN where she was confirmed at First Lutheran Church and graduated from high school in 1935. She married Vernard Trenne on May 30, 1936 and five children were born. Myrtle and her family lived in Fergus Falls and then moved to Alexandria in 1952. Because of their love of the outdoors, Myrtle and Vern helped to establish the Trenne Wildlife Area and increased the growth of Carlos State Park.

Myrtle had worked for various places in her life including owning and operating the Minnesota Grocery Store in Alexandria, managing Funland Amusement Park for many years, Assistant Director of the Daytime Activity Center, and as a Para Professional at Central Junior High School. After Myrtle retired she became involved volunteering her time at Listening Ear for 9 years before becoming hired as the Volunteer Coordinator for over 6 years. She also volunteered her time with the Douglas County Humane Society, Friends of the Library, and Viking Sportsman Club. Myrtle was honored by Listening Ear and Douglas County as an Outstanding Senior Citizen in 1994, for her years of work and volunteering. Besides volunteering for many community organizations Myrtle was very involved with Bethesda Lutheran Church. She was on the church council for two terms and was on the building committee of Luther Crest.

She cherished the time she was able to spend with each of her children and grandchildren who lovingly called her Nana. Myrtle also loved animals, flowers, and helping children in need.

Myrtle authored a book “Did I Ever Tell You”, a collection of her memories that she gave to each of her children. This book told Myrtle’s story of her life and captured her unique personality which her family will enjoy for generations to come.

Myrtle C. Trenne died on Friday, June 6, 2014 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria, MN at the age of 96 years old. She is survived by her daughter Verla (Jerry) Engelbrecht of Brainerd, MN; sons Arlyn (Kathy) Trenne of Alexandria, Jon (Barbara) Trenne of Carlos, MN, and Paul (Karen) Trenne of Grand Forks, ND; 9 grandchildren Jody (Mark) Stiver of Sugarland, TX, James (Joanne) Trenne of Alexandria, Tim (Mary) Trenne of Chaska, Kate Engelbrecht (Jed Walentas) of New York, NY, Judd Engelbrecht (Justin Donofrio) of New York, NY, Rob (Candice) Trenne of Miltona, Erin (Cory) Walquist of Maple Grove, Benjamin Trenne of Grand Forks, ND and Rachel Trenne of Grand Forks, ND; 16 great grandchildren; 11 great great grandchildren; and a special friend Merill Kiehne of Alexandria. Myrtle was preceded in death by her parents, husband Vernard Trenne, infant son, infant grandson Scott Trenne, brother Orval Larson, sisters Lorraine Kane, Alice Mae Wegner, and Maxine Keeping, and longtime loving companion Art Engelbrecht.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at Bethesda Lutheran Church with the Reverend Jerry Lanes officiating. Music was provided by Mark Graf and special music by Karen Trenne and Benjamin Trenne. Interment was in the Kinkead Cemetery. Casket Bearers were grandsons James Trenne, Tim Trenne, Rob Trenne, Judd Engelbrecht, and Ben Trenne. Honorary Casket Bearers were granddaughters Jody Stiver, Kate Engelbrecht, Erin Walquist, and Rachel Trenne.

Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria

Diane Mounsdon > Father 04.11.2014

     Lamont Russell Mounsdon was born on February 6, 1923, the son of Russell and Rose Mounsdon. When Lamont was a young child his family moved to Iowa where they lived a short while and then moved back to Alexandria. He graduated from Alexandria High School in 1941. After graduation he worked on his parents farm until entering the Army with the start of WWII in 1944. He was a staff Sargent in the Pacific Zone. He was honorably discharged in 1946.
Upon returning from the service he was united in marriage to Phyllis Henriksen on November 3, 1946. After their marriage they moved by Lake Henry where they resided until his death. Lamont worked in construction work with his father until 1954, when he then joined the Alexandria Police force. He retired from the Police force in 1979. He was also named Police Officer of the Year this same year.
After retirement he and Phyllis toured many states exhibiting at art and craft sales. They retired the second time in 2000. Phyllis and Lamont met and made many friends during their travels.
Lamont died on Friday, April 11, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; sons: Craig (Elaine), Keith (Gaye); daughter, Diane (Curt); seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren; sisters: Lorraine Sturnick and Joyce Jacobson.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bob.
Funeral services will be on Wednesday, April 16, 2014, 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alexandria with Rev. Jeff Hanson officiating. Burial will be at Kinkead Cemetery.  

Greg Thompson > Mother 04.01.2014

Marion Genevieve Thompson was born on May 9, 1929 in Wadena, Minnesota the daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth (Saari) Kunnari. She grew up and graduated from Aurora high school and then moved to Minneapolis, MN. She worked at Honeywell where she met Clayton Thompson and on their second date Clayton told her he was going to marry her. They were united in marriage on October 11, 1947. Three children were born to this union Greg, Kim, and Scott. Marion and her family lived in Minneapolis until 1950 when they moved to Alexandria, MN. They lived on the shores of Lake Carlos for over 40 years. Marion put her excellent organizational skills to use when she worked as a secretary for Calvary Lutheran Church, the State of Minnesota, and Bremer Bank.

Marion was very active in her church by playing the piano and organ, singing in the church choirs, and teaching Sunday school and confirmation classes. Marion’s favorite hobbies were gardening outside of her house and decorating. She helped decorate Calvary Lutheran Church and was asked by many friends for her advice to make their home look stylish yet tasteful. About 10 years ago Marion lost her sight and she became involved with the Visually Impaired Persons. Even without sight Marion still kept living her life with great faith in God and love for her family. She will be missed by those who knew and loved her.

Marion G. Thompson died on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria at the age of 84 years old. She is survived by her sons Greg Thompson of Alexandria and Kim Thompson of Alexandria; granddaughter Taylor (and her mother Vickie) O’Hara of St. Cloud, MN; brothers Donald (Lorraine) Kunnari of Biwabik, MN and Howard (Maxine) Kunnari of Minneapolis, MN; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Clayton Thompson, son Scott Thompson, 3 brothers, and 6 sisters.

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at the Living Word Lutheran Church with the Reverend A.J. Kluver officiating. Interment was in the Kinkead Cemetery. Casket Bearers were Glenn Schmidt, Donn Kunnari, Tim Kunnari, Bob Stone, Jerry Kunnari and Dan Amendt.

Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria

Steve Colby joins MSU-M athletics hall of fame

Locals join MSU-M athletics hall of fame

 Alexandria native Steve Colby and Glenwood resident Steve Holte were enshrined in the Minnesota State University-Moorhead Athletics Hall of Fame last September along with the rest of the 1970-1971 Dragons basketball team. 

James & William Anderson > Mother 03.30.14

                   

Mary Elizabeth Ziesemer was born November 11, 1924 in Piney, Manitoba, the daughter of Richard and Amanda (Ormstad) Ziesemer. At age fourteen Mary and her family moved to Minnesota. Mary was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church near Miltona, MN. She graduated from school District 55 in Douglas County. Her first job was candling eggs at North American Cooler during WWII.

 On November 11, 1944 Mary was united in marriage to William Anderson. The couple made their home in Alexandria, MN. They were blessed with eight children. For thirty-eight years they ran a small farm on Lake Geneva. After William’s death she sold the farm and Mary moved to Latoka Crest Condominiums.

Mary was a homemaker and pastry chef extraordinaire. She was known for her caramel rolls, pies and cookies that she baked for the Alexandria Country Club and Old Broadway restaurant. Eventually Mary stopped working outside her home but she never retired. Mary continued to bake her pies for special friends, you know who you are!

Mary enjoyed growing flowers and had a huge garden where she raised vegetables for canning. She enjoyed spending time quilting, sewing, crocheting, doing needlepoint work and had many more hobbies.

Volunteering was important to Mary. She served as a Cub Scout leader for eighteen years. She was active at her church in her Ladies Circle and she spent many hours with her church quilting friends. Mary was a woman of strong faith and she loved her church. Those who loved Mary will remember her as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

On March 30, 2014 Mary died at the age of eighty-nine years. Her husband William Anderson; her parents; one grandson, Douglas Anderson, II; one sister, Beatrice Dick; and two brothers, Richard and Gene Ziesemer, preceded her in death.

Mary is survived by six sons, Douglas Anderson and wife, Diane, of Alexandria, James Anderson and friend, Karen Karger, of Garfield, MN, William Anderson of Carlton, MN, Marshall Anderson and fiancé, Julee Bitzan, of Garfield. Randall Anderson and wife, Patty, of Alexandria and Sheldon Anderson and fiancé, Renee Schecker, of Evansville, MN; two daughters, Linda Harrison and husband, Stanley, of Johnson City, TN and Loreena Anderson and friend, Teirney Dunnigan, of Minneapolis, MN; sixteen grandchildren; twenty great grandchildren; one brother, Donald Ziesemer and wife, Karen, of Garfield; one sister, Helen Vogt of Little Falls, MN; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held at Anderson’s funeral home, Wednesday, April 2 from 4-8p.m. and the funeral service is being held Thursday, April 3 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria at 11:30. Reverend David Hines and Reverend William Moeller officiate. Interment will be at the Geneva Cemetery in August. Casket bearers include Mary’s grandsons, Brian Anderson, John Anderson, Kristopher Anderson, William Anderson Jr., Marshall Anderson Jr. and Tyler Anderson. Honorary casket bearers include all of Mary’s grandchildren and great grandchildren. Special Thanks to Bethany Home’s Maple Lake staff. Memorials to Zion Lutheran Church Quilters group- 300 Lake Street, Alexandria, MN 56308.

Paulette Danelke > Mother 03.24.14

Theresa Amelia Klimek was born August 7, 1926 in Effington Township, MN to Anton and Margaret (Peters) Klimek. She was raised in Effington where she attended country school.

On December 28, 1948 Theresa was united in marriage to Ervin Danelke at the Sacred Heart Church in Urbank, MN. The couple was blessed with three children, Paulette, Beckie and Monica. They made their home in Millerville, MN until 1965 when the family moved to Spruce Center, MN. Later she took a job working for the Co-op Store in Miltona, MN. Theresa worked there for sixteen years before her health forced her to retire early.

Theresa was active at her church, St. Nicholas, in Belle River, MN. Theresa loved saying The Rosary. The Minnesota Twins were her favorite team but she enjoyed all baseball. Theresa enjoyed cooking and was good at it. If you knew Theresa or had ever been to her home for a visit you knew she loved the color orange. Most of all Theresa loved spending time with her family; she was very proud of her children.

On Monday, March 24, 2014 Theresa died at the age of eighty-seven years. She is survived by her daughters, Paulette Pueringer of Shafer, MN, Beckie Peterson of Ottawa, KS and Monica (Tony) Maleki of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren, Tim (Mitzi) Messenger of Clay Center, NE, Jim (Chris) Messenger of Clay Center, Leah (Wade) Clang of Sutton, NE; Brent Peterson of Lawrence, KS, Quentin Peterson of Ottawa, KS, Dan (Ligia) Pueringer of Duluth, MN, Matt Pueringer of Virginia, MN, Emily (Chris) Raisch of Minneapolis, MN, Olivia Maleki of Sarasota, FL; eleven great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Clara Tvrdik of Alexandria, MN and Evelyn Koep of Parkers Prairie, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Her husband, Ervin Danelke; one brother, Peter Klimek; and three sisters Hilde Wicker, Marie Gahlon and Helen Suchy preceded Theresa in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM Saturday, March 29, 2014 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Belle River, MN. Reverend Father Dave Petron will be the celebrant. Interment will be in the St. Nicholas Catholic Cemetery. Casket bearers include Daniel Pueringer, Matthew Pueringer, Chris Raisch, jim Messenger, Tim Messenger and Bob Koep. Honorary casket bearers include Ray & Doris Stoeck. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 PM Friday at the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria, MN

John Mix > Sister 03.21.14

Lorraine Marjorie (Mix) Hertwig was born on January 23, 1929 in St. Cloud, MN to Herman and Clara (Krueger) Mix. She was the oldest of the five siblings. She attended school in St. Cloud through the eighth grade. The family then moved out to Gaston, OR for two years and returned to Minnesota and made their home in rural Spruce Center. A few years later Lorraine moved to Minneapolis with some friends where they started working. In 1949, her father died and Lorraine returned home to help her mother care for her younger siblings.

Lorraine was united in marriage to Edlard W. Hertwig on August 25, 1957 at Mount Calvary in rural Miltona. The couple moved to Edlard’s parents’ farm north of Miltona where he farmed. To this union the couple was blessed with two children. Lorraine worked as a homemaker and a farmer’s wife raising their two children. When the children became older Lorraine returned back to work as a nurses aid at St. Williams in Parkers Prairie and then Bethany Home in Alexandria where she worked for 15 years. After she retired she continued working at Bethany Home as a volunteer.

Lorraine was an avid gardener and loved the outdoors. She also enjoyed cooking, needlework and quilting, where many projects were made especially for family members. She loved being a caregiver, and was a devoted mother and homemaker. She was a wonderful cook, making banana bread, frying fish, and making egg coffee. Lorraine had a deep faith and enjoyed being part of the Ladies Aid and quilting group.

Lorraine died on Friday, March 21, 2014 at Bethany Home at the age of 85. She is survived by her son, Daniel (Joanne) Hertwig of Winger, MN; daughter, Kathryn Zimmerman of Alexandria; grandchildren, James Zimmerman of Big Lake, MN, Stephanie Zimmerman of Bloomington, MN, Jacob Hertwig of Bemidji, MN and Megan (Andrew) Wark of Grand Forks, ND; brothers, Howard Mix of Miltona and John Mix of Madison, WI; sisters, Shirley (Lee) Gilmore of Silver Springs, MD and Jan Hamilton of Edina, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Lorraine is preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Clara; husband, Edlard; and sister-in-law, Arlene Mix.

A funeral service was on Monday, March 24, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Interment was in Mount Calvary Cemetery in rural Miltona. 

Nancy Olson > Husband 03.06.14

Edward Allan Becker was born May 16, 1940, in Morris, MN, the son of Edward C. and Lulu (Beebe) Becker. He was raised and schooled in Morris. He attended the Agricultural School in Morris and later graduated high school at Kensington, MN. 

On February 24, 1968, Eddie was united in marriage to Nancy Lynn Olson at St. Luke’s Church in Garfield, MN. The couple made their home on a farm near Farwell, MN, and was blessed with six children. Eddie farmed the same farm until 1987. After selling the farm Eddie and Nancy moved to Kensington. He continued working as a truck driver for various companies. His favorite job was as a school bus driver. He especially enjoyed joking with the children on the daily route. 

Eddie was committed to his community. He served on the Kensington First Responders and Fire Department and retired after eleven years. He also served as Fire Chief. Eddie was an actively involved parent for 4-H and FFA enjoying the time he spent with his family at various county fairs.

In his younger years, Eddie enjoyed time spent on a bowling league. He loved doing woodworking projects and playing all kinds of card games. Going camping in the summertime with his family was always enjoyable. Eddie also enjoyed food; he did a lot of canning and appreciated a good meal. Eddie’s favorite hobby was attending auction sales and the sales barn. He would travel hundreds of miles just to be at the sale. Eddie loved the time spent with his family; especially his grandchildren.

On Thursday, March 6, 2014, Eddie passed away at the age of seventy-three years. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-father Edwin Olsen and grandson Jacob Jahnke. Eddie is survived by wife of forty-six years, Nancy Becker of Kensington; children, Cindy (Duane Crusan) Klatt, of Elbow Lake, MN, JoAnn (Steffan) Pederson, of Farwell, MN, Christy (Scott) Hart, of Eagle Bend, MN, Edward L. (Tracy) Becker, of Glencoe, MN, Allan (Amanda) Becker, of Kensington, MN and Jolene (Kevin) Kangas, of Brandon, MN; nineteen grandchildren, Shawn Klatt, Ralph and Sarah Crusan, Valencia and Alan Pederson, Nancy, Nolan, Susan and Orran Hart, Edward J., Jack, Emma and Sam Becker, Hailee, Lily, Cole and Levi Becker, Katelin and Stacey Kangas, and one sister, Judy (Rendell) Pahl, of Farwell.

A funeral service was held Monday, March 10, 2014, at Oscar Lake Lutheran Church rural Farwell. Reverend Ed Borchardt was the officiant. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Casket bearers included Richard White, LeRoy Jacobson, Terry Randt, Randy Petersen, Dennis Zobel, Mike Johnson, Curt Hamen and Jerry Johnson. Honorary casket bearers included all of Eddie’s grandchildren

Jill Pearson > Father 02.21.14

                     

Francis Luverne Pearson was born on July 7, 1925 in Pierre, South Dakota to Francis and Myrtle (Davis) Pearson. He graduated from high school in Bruno, MN. Francis served in the U.S. Army in WWII from 1943–1946. He served his country during the Battle of the Bulge with the 101st Airborne Division. As he was parachuting down he was shot in the leg and became a POW. Francis was awarded the Purple Heart.

Francis returned and lived in the Twin Cities, working while he attended Macalister College. In November of 1947, Francis was united in marriage to Alice Sullivan. Francis continued his schooling and earned his Doctorate in Chiropractic at Northwestern School of Chiropractic in 1955. The family moved to Alexandria in 1955, and Francis opened his Chiropractic Office, retiring in 1985.

Francis was a member of the Alexandria American Legion Post 87 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 936 and is a Past Commander. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors, a good steak, and flying his plane. He was very meticulous with his yard and his home. Francis was an honest man and loved being around people.

Francis died on Friday, February 21, 2014 at the Douglas County Hospital at the age of 88. He is survived by his five children, Jill Lovell of Minneapolis, Jane (Jerry) Olerud of Bloomington, Kevin Pearson of Alexandria, Mark Pearson of Alexandria, and Jay Pearson of Northfield; ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; sisters, Bonnie Sorenson of Arlington, TX, Nancy (Jack) McCullough of Eyota, MN; sister-in-law, Arlene Pearson of Oak Grove; and several nieces and nephews. Francis is preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Myrtle; wife, Alice, and brothers, Max and Larry.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM on Friday, February 28, 2014 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held Thursday, February 27, 2014 from 5-7 PM with Parish Prayers at 5 PM, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery.

A special thank you from the family to Prairie Senior Cottages for the love and care they provided to their father.

Classmate > Gary Erickson 02.10.2014

 

   
Gary L. Erickson, 64, of Willmar died Monday, February 10 2014 at St Cloud Hospital.  His funeral service will be 11:00 am, Friday at Assembly of God in Willmar.  Visitation will be 5-7:00 pm, Thursday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and on Friday one hour prior to the service at the church. Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post #167 of Willmar.  

Gary was born on April 22, 1949, in Alexandria, Minnesota, the son of Kenneth and Ethel (Jones) Erickson.  He attended school in Alexandria before moving to Hastings, Nebraska where he graduated from high school.  While in high school, Gary participated in baseball and basketball of which he continued to enjoy watching throughout his life.  He served in the United States Navy from June 16, 1969 until his honorable discharge on February 29, 1972.  He was stationed in San Diego and Charleston.  Following his discharge, Gary attended and graduated from a vocational school in St. Paul. 

On September 13, 1975, he was united in marriage to Beata Kaye Faehnrich in Alexandria.  In 1979, Gary started working for MnDOT, retiring on October 6, 2007.  Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing and was always supportive of others.  As mentioned earlier, he enjoyed watching sports and also old movies. 

Surviving are his wife, Beata; sons, Allen Erickson of St. Cloud; Bryan (and Jenilee) of St. Joseph; three grandchildren, Kylee, Eliana and Olivia; siblings, Sharon (and Jim) Hurley and Bobbie Habel both of Moorhead; Becki (and Gary) Sans Souci of Willmar; mother-in-law, Shirley Faehnrich of Alexandria and aunts, Inez Okerlund and Gladys Gerhardt both of Alexandria and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Greg Habel and father-in-law, Maurice Faehnrich.

                  

 

 

 

Gary Justice > Step Mother 02.06.14

   Mabel was born April 27, 1928 in Wishek, North Dakota, the daughter of August and Maria (Meidinger) Rudolf. She grew up and was schooled in Wishek. After graduating from Wishek High School, Mabel attended Mary College at Bismarck, North Dakota. She graduated with a degree in nursing in 1948.

On May 11, 1949 Mabel was united in marriage to Everett Rise. The couple was blessed with one son, Craig. Mabel worked as a nurse in Fargo, ND and at Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. The family moved to Jamestown, ND where Mabel worked at a clinic and the Catholic hospital.
In 1968, Everett was transferred to the post office in Alexandria. Mabel began working at Our Lady of Mercy Hospital that was later merged with Douglas County Hospital. In 1988, Mabel retired from Douglas County Hospital.
Everett died in 1983. On May 7, 1988 Mabel was united in marriage to Richard Justice.
Mabel served on the parish health board at First Lutheran Church where she was a member. She liked to do craftwork and created many crafts for Christmas. She was a good bridge player and played with many different groups over the years; she loved bridge. Most important to Mabel was her family. She was proud of her son. For the last seven years she has been visiting her husband faithfully at Peaceful Bliss.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett Rise; stepson, Rick Justice; two brothers, Alvin and Helmuth Rudolf; and three sisters, Esther Brandner, Erna Rath and Alma Doerr.
Mabel is survived by her husband, Richard Justice of Alexandria; her son, Craig Rise and wife, Anita, of Fargo, ND; stepchildren, Gary Justice of Glenwood, Judy Hall of Minneapolis, Ted Justice and wife, Sue, of Alexandria, Victoria Elliott of Victoria, Mary Lachowitzer and husband, Tony, of Clitherall, Barb Birrell and husband, Mike, of Austin, TX and Elizabeth Weersing of Round Rock, TX; grandchildren, Kristen Draskovic and husband, Jon, of Great Falls, MT, and Erin Rise of Minneapolis; many step-grandchildren; brother, Paul Rudolf of Wishek; sisters, Luella Vilhauer of Vancouver, WA and Lorraine Hochhalter of Wishek; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held Tuesday, February 11 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. The Rev. Marilee Bergerson officiated. Karen Gladen and Randy Morken provided music. Interment followed at Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria.
Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.

Mike Thornton > Mother 01.20.14

       Janice (Jan) Schwagerl Thornton was born June 12, 1919 in Browns Valley, Minnesota. She later moved with her family to Montevideo where she grew up. In 1947, she married Joe Thornton, who was studying law at the University of Minnesota. Later that year, Joe and Jan moved to Alexandria when Joe joined his father's law practice, Thornton & Thornton Law Office. Together they raised three children: Mike, Carol, and Nan.
Jan was a loving and devoted wife and mother who actively participated in her children's school and extra-curricular activities. Her family always came first. She was active in the Alexandria Women's Club, St. Mary’s Church and Boy Scout activities. She enjoyed playing bridge and made many lifelong friends in bridge club. She loved music and dancing and was always ready for a twirl around the kitchen or a formal ball. Her style and good taste remained her signature all through her life.
Her husband, Joe, passed away in 1996. After living on Lake Le Homme Dieu for many years, Jan moved to Summerwood of Plymouth where she made many friends and kept the residents laughing. Jan was known for her quick wit and contagious good humor, and she always had a quip or a wisecrack that would send everyone into gales of laughter.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alma and Joe Schwagerl, her brother, Glenn, and her sister, Elaine. Jan is survived by her children Mike, Carol and Nan, her grandson Matthew, and her sister-in-law Elizabeth Thornton.
Funeral arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home of Alexandria, MN. Visitation and prayer service is Friday, January 24, 4-7 pm, at Anderson Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at The Church of St. Mary, Saturday, January 25, 11:00 am.

Classmate, Jon Klein 01.10.14

   Jon was born November 22, 1948 to Donald and AdaBelle (Halstead) Klein in Alexandria, the second of six children. In junior high and high school he excelled at wrestling and was an All-State wrestler. After graduating from Jefferson High School in 1967, Jon enlisted in the military and served as a Marine corporal in Vietnam.

Jon married Susan Skrove in 1974. They enjoyed the home they built south of Lake Ida with quick access to fishing and hunting. In 1981, their daughter, Jessica, was born and Jon taught her to hunt, fish and fix just about anything.
Jon worked a variety of trucking jobs and in 1979 he joined Holiday Gas Companies where he drove gas transport for 21 years. In June of 2000, after a car accident left him paraplegic, he continued to dispatch and manage the trucks for Holiday from his home in Miltona. He and Sue divorced in 2004 but have remained close friends.
Jon never let his disability get the best of him or hinder his spirit. He found ways to continue hunting, fishing, riding ATV, driving his own vehicle and living independently until the very end of his life with minimal help.
Jon enjoyed many trips to Canada and Red Lake fishing and hunting with his friends and brother Dan, all of whom helped him to find more inventive ways for him to get himself into "trouble" while continuing to live life to the fullest. Jon was known for his sense of humor, having an opinion about everything, his uncanny ability to take 30 minutes to tell a 5-minute story and making sure that he took good care of his family and friends.
Jon was an active member of the Alexandria VFW, Legion, NRA, Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, and Quality Deer Management Association.
Jon was preceded in death by his infant sister, Mary; father, Don; sister, Judy; and mother, AdaBelle.
He is survived by his daughter, Jessica (fiance, Bill Blanchard); ex-wife, Sue Klein; brother, Jim and wife Rose of Maple Grove; sister, Patti, of Midland, MI; brother, Dan, of Crystal; and close friends he considered part of his family, Kelly and Carrie Borchert.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Franciscan Sisters, 116 8th Ave SE, Little Falls, MN.
Visitation is Wednesday, January 15 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home.
Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

Marlys Affeldt > Father 01.10.14

         Arthur Albert Affeldt, 89, died Friday, January 10, 2014.

Arthur was born March 25, 1924 by Lake Irene in Miltona to John and Mathilda (Klinger) Affeldt. He is one of five children.

Arthur attended school at District 46 in Miltona. He helped around the small 25-acre farm until he joined the Army on May 10, 1943. He was sent to Texas and was in the 124th Calvary. His tour of duties included Burma, India and China. Arthur was honorably discharged on January 10, 1946.
He returned home and met Olga Rieder and they were married September 1, 1946 in Garfield at St. Johns Parsonage. His first job was at North American Creamery, as a mechanic. The couple bought their home in Alexandria where they started their new lives together and they were blessed with six children, Jeannie, Marlys, Wendy, Joseph, Mark and Rita. Then Arthur was offered a job at CL Michaelson and learned the trade as a plumber. Later he joined the Union Local 126 and worked out of the Local from Detroit Lakes.
Arthur finally retired in 1986 after working out of town most of his career as a plumber for the Local in Detroit Lakes. The couple built a home on Lake Jessie and thats where they retired, enjoying life together.
Arthur loved his family, fishing, hunting, fishing, casino trips, and did I mention fishing. Yes, his favorite pastime was fishing with his family and friends. He knew Lake Jessie like the back of his hand and all the hot fishing spots.
Arthur resided at Diamond Willow since August 2011, where he received loving care.
He is survived by his daughters, Jeannie (Bill) Guenther of Spring Lake Park, Marlys Affeldt of Alexandria, Wendy Welle of Alexandria, Rita (Kim) Barros of Alexandria; son, Mark (Ann) Affeldt of Clearwater; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Olga; son, Joseph; grandson, Thomas Barros; parents, Mathilda and John; sisters, Dorothy Engfer, Viola Porter; and brothers, Delbert, Freddie and Raymond.
Funeral services were held Monday, January 13 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Burial was at Kinkead Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

Jerome Steen > Mother 12.14.13

Joyce LaVern Steen, 83, died Saturday, December 14, 2013 at Douglas County Hospital in Alexandria.

Joyce was born September 7, 1930 in Miltona Township, the daughter of Alfred and Anna (Carlson) Dreger. She grew up on the family farm from 1930 until 1945. She and her family moved to Alexandria where she attended Central High School.

Joyce was married to Harold Steen in 1949. They lived in Alexandria and had two children, Jerome and David. She worked at various places through the years, including Bethany Home, Fingerhut, Our Lady of Mercy Hospital and Herbergers.
Joyce and her family moved to Blackwell Lake near Holmes City in 1968. She enjoyed painting, gardening and trips she took with her family to Texas, Mexico and the West Coast. Joyce worked hard all her life and was a devoted wife and mother. She will be missed by those who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her sons, Jerome Steen of Cambridge and David Steen of Farwell; grandchildren, David (Sheila) Steen of Princeton, Brian (Kristen) Steen of Farwell, and Justin Steen of St. Paul; great-grandchildren, Madison, Sheldon and Alaina; brother, James (Mavis) Dreger of Warroad; sisters, Jane (Michael) Heyn of Fort Worth, TX and Judy (Charles) Forslin of Emily, MN.
A graveside service was held for Joyce on Thursday, December 19 at Rose Hill Cemetery near Holmes City.
Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

Linda Beach > Mother 01.08.14

Alice Arlene Beach, 86, died Wednesday, January 8, 2014.

Arlene was born October 17, 1927 in Fargo, North Dakota, the daughter of Arndt and Violet (Chitwood) Vigen.

Arlene was united in marriage to Dean Beach on March 7, 1948 in Alexandria. After their marriage the couple lived in Alexandria for a while before moving to Barrett where they farmed until their barn burned down. The family then moved back to Alexandria and farmed on the west side of Lake Latoka.
Arlene was a member of the Eastern Star, and a member of First Lutheran Church, where she was very active. She also enjoyed ceramics, painting and had several beautiful paintings she displayed.
She is survived by her five children, Dale (Jeanne) of Alexandria, Scott (Barb) of Apple Valley, Linda Beach of Fargo, Dean (Ginny) of North Carolina, Eleanor Beach of Arizona; eight grandchildren, Nancy (Steve) Nichols, Gregory (Rebekah) Beach, Tim (Kristin) Beach, Joel (Brandi) Beach, Erica Beach, Ryan (April) Beach, Tucker (Stephanie) Beach, Melinda Beach; 12 great-grandchildren, Amanda, Amber, Kairi, Sydney, Josie, Conner, Jenny, Khiley, Ryan Jr., Clark, Alice and Natashia.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean; parents.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 14 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Burial was at Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria.
Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.