Cyril J. Gaebel, age 92 of New Munich, died suddenly from a severe stroke on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2015, at the CentraCare Health Hospital in Melrose.

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Cyril Joseph Gaebel was born Dec. 1, 1923, in New Munich to Joseph and Mary (Schulte) Gaebel. On Oct. 23, 1945, he married Alfrieda “Beadie” Schulte at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich. Cyril farmed near New Munich for 29 years. While farming, he sold Patz Equipment and Pioneer Seed. Cyril sold the farm to his son, Don, and continued to work construction and sell Pioneer Seed and Patz Equipment until his retirement. 

 He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich, Catholic United Financial, St. Joseph’s Men’s Society, New Munich Sno Gliders, New Munich Conservation Club and MN USA. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing and having fish fries. Cyril loved competition and liked to win at anything. Three days before his passing, he won at a local meat raffle. Cyril enjoyed life and loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Survivors include his children, Mary Kay (Steve) Flynn of Elk River, Donald (Judy) Gaebel of Freeport, Richard (Sherry) Gaebel of Albany, JoAnn (Jerry) Fleischhacker of Albany and Sue Ann (John) Tidd of Sartell; 20 grandchildren and 47 great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law, Donna Gaebel of Waite Park and Irene Gaebel of Pierz.

 Cyril was preceded in death by his wife, Alfrieda “Beadie” Gaebel; parents; son, Kenneth Gaebel; granddaughter, Laura Rouse; brothers and sisters, Ambrose Gaebel, Edwin Gaebel, Rosalia Kremer, Raymond Gaebel, Ewald Gaebel, Sister Laura Gaebel, Sister Cordis Gaebel and Marie Bruestle.

 Serving as casket bearers were Jim Rouse, Sheila Gaebel, Greg Gaebel, Chad Gaebel, Andrea Coplan and Mickenzie Tidd. Cross bearer was Amy Hennen and scripture bearer was Jon Gaebel. Playing bagpipes was Darren Gaebel. Honorary bearers were Ron Hoppe, Jeff Hoppe, Butch Thull, Carl Schulzetenberg, Willie Nathe, Clarence Von Wahlde, Vern Stroeing, Melvin Eickhoff, Morrie Mayers, Harvey Mayers, Dennis Thull and Gary Thull. 

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at St. John Cantius Catholic Church in St. Cloud for Eugene “Gene” H. Vogel, 83, of St. Cloud who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the VA Healthcare Systems in St. Cloud.  Rev. Thomas Knoblach will officiate and burial will be at a later date with full military honors in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Little Falls.

Visitation will be after 9:30 a.m. on Thursday at the church in St. Cloud.  

 Gene is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Thrasilla of St. Cloud; children, Cindy of St. Cloud, Butch (Donna) of Anoka, Jim (Sharon) of St. Cloud, Dennis (Carmel) of St. Cloud, Kimberly (Scott) Lahr of Avon; 15 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; siblings, Lorraine (Al) Gangl of Melrose, Mary Arnzen of Melrose, Tom (Marlene) Vogel of Sartell; and many nieces and nephews.  

He is preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter Nicole; great grandson, Maryn; siblings, Roman, Leander, Warner, Elmer, Ervin, Loretta, Joe; and infant sister, Viola.                 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, St. Cloud. 

Lifelong Sauk Centre resident, Adeline Regine Wolbeck, age 84, was reunited with the love of her life, her late husband, Christian, on Christmas morning, 2015. 

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29 at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Greg Paffel officiating. Interment was at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Sauk Centre. 

Born the youngest of eight children to Mathew and Katherine (Helten) Michels in Sauk Centre on May 20, 1931,
Adeline established her independent and adventurous spirit early, despite the ever-present watchful eyes of her doting siblings.  Adeline began working at the Sauk Centre Creamery before marrying Christian. She also dabbled in entrepreneurship as owner of the Hilltop Grocery and drove truck in the family business before beginning her 20-year career at the Minnesota Correctional Facility  in Sauk Centre. Adeline’s compassion for the kids there led her to pursue a degree in Behavioral Sociology, all while balancing her work and raising eight children. 

 Whether pulling up to the Ding Dong Café in the Wolbeck Construction dump truck for coffee and conversation or catching a ride to the Mainstreet Coffee Company for a game of dice with friends, throughout her life Adeline always found time  to share her joyous spirit with others. As a champion of the kids at the “Home School,” it was not unusual for her to invite kids from the Correctional Facility who had no real home of their own to join the Wolbecks for Christmas dinner. She also started day camp exchanges that served to create connections between children in the local schools with those at the Home School. Adeline was a gardener, all-season camper, smelt fisher, and serious bowler. She stayed active in retirement, taking road trips with friends, and in doing so, once even slightly disobeyed the advice of her physician, Dr. Sayovitz, whom she respected and adored.

Adeline leaves behind a loving, close-knit family, including: Kathy Smith of Bonita Springs, Fla.; Richard (Elizabeth) Wolbeck of Sauk Centre, James (Lisa) Wolbeck of Sauk Centre; Mary (Gary) Metcalf of East Grand Forks, Minn.; Suzanne (William)  Kvas of Eagan, Minn.;
Joseph (Melanie)
Wolbeck of Lino Lakes, Minn.; and Christina (Timothy) Gapinski of Sauk Centre. She is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Adeline always remembered each and every birthday. Her capacity for love  kept pace with the growth of her adoring family and continues to grow through them.

 Adeline was preceded in death by her loving husband, Christian, and their son, Michael, as well as her parents, brothers Joseph, Albert, Charlie, Leo, and
Walter  Michels; and  sisters Margaret Scott and
Evelyn Dowell.

Serving as casket bearers were Jon
Wolbeck, Kolya Kvas, Brad Wolbeck, William Kvas, Jesse Wolbeck, Luke Metcalf, Jamie Wolbeck, Nathan
Metcalf, Joshua Wolbeck, and Mathew Metcalf. Serving as cross bearer was Brittany Sayler; scripture  bearer was Danielle Gapinski; gift bearers were Sarah Toftey and Amanda
Goerdt; and lectors were Eric Smith and Danielle Gapinski.                                      

 Memorials are preferred to the Eagles Healing Nest, Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre. 

Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Dorine M. Salzl, 81, of St. Cloud was held Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016,  at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud.  Dorine  passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Jan.  1, 2016 at CentraCare Health-Sauk Centre Hospital.   Reverend David Grundman officiates.  Burial was at Immaculate Conception Parish Cemetery, New Munich.

Dorine was born on March 10, 1934, in New Munich, Minn., to 

Alphonse and Anna (Welle) Thull.  She married Harold “Hal” Salzl on May 5, 1953, and they later divorced. She was a member of St. Michael’s Parish.   Dorine enjoyed quilting, crocheting and sewing, donating many of her works. In her later years she also enjoyed volunteering at the St. Cloud Hospital.

Dorine will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be dearly missed. 

She is survived by her children, Tom of St. Cloud, Ken (Susan) of Plymouth, Gary (Vicky) of Paynesville, Debra (Jerry) Meyer of Freeport, Ruth (Marty) Kaufman of Sartell, Julie (Ron) Sieben of Apple Valley; 12 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sister and brothers, Valeria Gerding of Elrosa, Donald Thull of Minneapolis, Alvinus (Marcie) Thull of New Munich, Roman (Carol) Thull of Eagan; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Marvin Thull.

Memorials are preferred.

Arrangements by Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud. 

Phyllis B. Messer, age 72 of Sauk Centre, was reunited with her soulmate, Jerome, on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, following a courageous and hard-fought fight with brain cancer. Phyllis was being lovingly cared for by the staff at CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre with her children at her side as she made the transition to heaven. 

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday, Jan. 4, 2016, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Father Tim Wenzel presiding. Interment was at the St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery in Sauk Centre. 

Phyllis Bernadine Toenyan was born June 16, 1943, in Millwood Township, near Melrose, the daughter of Edward E. and Marie M. (Schmidt) Toenyan. Phyllis attended school and graduated from Melrose High School. On May 19, 1964, Phyllis was united in marriage to the love of her life, Jerome J. Messer at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. Phyllis worked side-by-side with her husband, Jerome and their six children on the Messer Family Farm which they purchased in 1973. She resided there until 2013, when she moved to her home in Sauk Centre. 

Highly devoted to her strong Catholic faith, Phyllis can be remembered as a loving, appreciative, compassionate woman with many interests. From cooking and baking, trips with the family camper, bonfires, boat rides, fishing and going to the beach, to playing cards and attending country music concerts, she made everything she did fun and enjoyable. Phyllis was a proud and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She enjoyed watching her sons and grandsons participate in demo derbies, babysitting her grandchildren and an occasional trip to the casino with her friends. She enjoyed traveling and in September 2014, Phyllis took a trip of her lifetime which included stops in Rome and Venice, Italy, the Greek Isles and Turkey. She enjoyed her time as a volunteer at Holy Family School lunchroom and often received special hugs from her grandchildren there. A priority in her life was attending school programs and sporting events of her children and grandchildren. She always had her camera ready to capture these memories. Phyllis will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Phyllis was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Christian Mothers and the St. Paul’s Faith Sharing. She was also an active member in the local Red Hat Society, Card Club, Homemakers Club and enjoyed dining with the Tuesday Lunch Group.

Phyllis will be dearly missed by her children, Julie (Gerald) Woida of Villard, Joyce (David) Brinkman of Grey Eagle, Pamela (Lee) Wolbeck of Sauk Centre, Jeffrey (Sharon) Messer of Sauk Centre, Jason (Koni) Messer of Sauk Centre and Paula (Matthew) Walter of Moorhead; grandchildren, Janis (Preston) Iverson,  Rebecca Woida, Stacy (Mark) Woeste, Kristin Woida, Ashley (Matt) Stangler, Nicole (Jonathon) Spaid, Kayla Brinkman, Austin Brinkman, Zachary Wolbeck, Mitchell Wolbeck, Adam Wolbeck, Evan Wolbeck, Ryan Wolbeck, Jenna Messer and Kaylee Messer; great-grandchildren, Emmett Iverson, Jakobe King, Mario Watson, Shyla Woeste, Ethan Woeste, Gavyn Stangler, Mason Stangler and Chiara Spaid; sister, Jane (Melvin) Wielenberg; brothers, Claude (Susan) Toenyan, Carl (Mary) Toenyan, Harold Toenyan and Tom (Julie) Toenyan; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

Phyllis is preceded in death by her husband,  Jerome J. Messer on Aug. 19, 2005;    her   parents,     Edward and    Marie  Toenyan; and infant  brother, Frank Toenyan. 

Casket bearers were her grandsons and godsons, Austin Brinkman, Zachary Wolbeck, Mitchell Wolbeck, Scott Toenyan, James Wielenberg, Matthew Toenyan, Kevin Toenyan and Brian Wessel. Jane Wielenberg served as cross bearer while Tom Toenyan was the Scripture bearer for Phyllis’ Mass. Special music was provided by Nicole Spaid, Kayla Brinkman, Kevin Gwost, Lawrence Gwost and Carol Trisko.  Honorary casket bearers included: Betty Wessel, Susie Benson, Arlis Borgerding, Margaret Klasen, Lorrayne Traut, Mary Lou Lieser, JoAnn Middendorf, Elaine Meier, Jean Yarke, Lorraine Peschel, Rose Betow, Margaret Meyer, Margie Schmiesing, Claudette Jennissen, Kathy Kerfeld, Lynn Mehelich, Alice Peters, Betty Wiedendorf, Joan Tegels, Jan Schlichting, Vonnie Zirbes, Ruth Ann Zastrow, Darlene Dols, Dorreen Arens, Lorraine Kollman, Jane Meyer, Maria Minette, Virginia Meyer and Kathy Thomas.

Arrangements are with Patton-Schad Funeral Home, Sauk Centre.

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  Ervin R. “Erv” Dettler, age 80, of Melrose, died peacefully on Monday, Jan. 4, 2016, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. 

A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Melrose with Rev. David Mommens officiating. Interment was at Oak Hill Cemetery  in Melrose.

Ervin Rudolph Dettler was born Aug. 14, 1935, in Swanville, to Rudolph and Hilda (Strom) Dettler. On March 2, 1957 he married Rosemary Bentley at St. Peter’s Lutheran  Church in Swanville. Together the couple owned and operated the Belgrade Observer Newspaper for a number of years. After they sold their business, they continued working in the newspaper business at the Sauk Centre Herald and Melrose Beacon. In 1979 Erv began  working at Kraft in Melrose as a boiler operator until his retirement in 1989. After retirement, he continued working various jobs. Erv started as a volunteer with the Melrose Fire Department and later became a member of the Melrose Ambulance. He was very  passionate about the Melrose Ambulance becoming coordinator in 1979 and continued serving the community for 13 years. He was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where he was an elder and on the planning committee for the existing church. 

Ervin enjoyed traveling, visiting and spending time with his family, especially giving his grandchildren rides on the lawn mower. He also enjoyed hosting family reunions. 

Survivors include his children, Barb (Tim) Dettler-Petermeier of Melrose, Kevin Dettler of Willmar, James (Grace) Dettler of Colorado Springs, Colo., DeWayne “Rudy” (Peggy)  Dettler of Sierra Vista, Ariz., and Cindy Imdieke of Melrose; 11 grandchildren, Travis Petermeier, Michelle Petermeier (Josh Traut), Skyler Dettler, Autumn Dettler, Adrianne Dettler, Brad MacGregor, Sarah MacGregor, Jamie (David) Leonard, Misty Maus, Dustin  Maus and Eric Imdieke; seven great-grandchildren, Cade Petermeier, Kanon Petermeier, Calvin Traut, Wyatt Traut, Everett Traut, Olive Leonard and Hadley Leonard; sisters, Goldie Miland of Sauk Centre and Janet Koehn of Upsala; sisters and brother-in-law,  Betty Hvezda of Alexandria, Frances Dahl of Osseo, Effie (Richard) Martin of Roseville and Alfred Haagenson, Jr., of Clitherall.

Ervin was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rosemary Dettler; sister, Lorna Koehn; brothers and sister-in-law, William Gamradt, Ken Miland, Don Koehn, Melvin Koehn, Russell  Dahl, Ron Hvezda and Polly Haagenson.  

Casket bearers were Skyler Dettler, Eric Imdieke, Dustin Maus, Misty Maus, Adrianne Dettler and Brad MacGregor. Honorary bearers were Bill and Joyce Rausch, Betty Lahmers, Roger Paschke and Lori Jackels. 

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.                 

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  Robert A. “Bob” Bense, age 87, of Grey Eagle, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, at his home in Grey Eagle, Minn.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grey Eagle with Rev. Mike Bitz officiating. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Grey Eagle.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

Robert Alton Bense was born April 18, 1928, in Grey Eagle Township, Todd County, Minnesota to Herman and Elsie (Schwanke) Bense. On Sept. 19, 1950, he married Darlene Kleinschmidt at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grey Eagle. Together the couple farmed southeast of Grey Eagle and after retiring, they continued to help out on the family farm.  During the early years of farming, Bob worked at Franklin in St. Cloud for a number of years (now known as Electrolux Home Products). Bob was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grey Eagle and served on the Grey Eagle Township Board for many years.

 In his younger years, Bob enjoyed snowmobiling and working with draft horses. Later he enjoyed collecting antiques and toy tractors, going to auctions, playing cards, listening to Polka music, an occasional trip to the casino, and visiting with family and friends.

 Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Darlene Bense of Grey Eagle; children, Bonnie (Joe) Kemper of Grey Eagle, Connie (Gene) Waldvogel of Grey Eagle, Donnie Bense of Grey Eagle, and Pam (Mark) Dziengel of Grey Eagle; four grandchildren, Kelly Burg, Bob Waldvogel, Katie Dziengel, Nic Dziengel; three great-grandchildren, Tyler, Shelby, and Justin Burg; and brother, Ray (Ruth) Bense of Grey Eagle.

 Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and infant brother and sister, William and Unalane.

 Casket bearers will be Nic Dziengel, Mark Dziengel, Tom Bense, Bob Waldvogel, Gene Waldvogel, and Chris Bense.

 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Grey Eagle.

Connie Hoeschen, age 100, of Mahnomen, died Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016, at Essentia Health - Oak Crossing in Detroit Lakes.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, Jan. 15, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Mahnomen.  Interment was at St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery.

Connie Mary Beuning was born in St. Rosa, to Henry and Elizabeth (VonBokern) Beuning. She grew up in the St. Rosa area where she attended school and helped on the family farm. On April 30, 1935, Connie was united in marriage to Benedict Hoeschen in St. Rosa. The couple made their first home in Freeport, and was blessed with five daughters. In 1943, the family relocated to a farm near Mahnomen. In addition to tending to the children and the household chores, processing all their own meat and vegetables, Connie worked many long hours next to Ben on the farm.  After 50 years of farming, Ben and Connie retired and moved into Mahnomen in 1997. Ben passed away in July of 2000 and Connie remained in her home, sharing her home with her daughter, Betty, until entering Oak Crossing in September of 2015. 

For many years, Ben and Connie were members of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Waubun and later became members of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Mahnomen. Connie was active with the Rosary Society and the neighborhood “Thrifty Homemakers Club.”

As an excellent seamstress, much time was spent sewing. Over the years, Connie made many quilts for her children, grandchildren and even a few of the great-grandchildren. She put all her love into each and every stich and they now serve as a precious keepsake. She loved to tell stories and has created lots of wonderful memories for her family.

Connie is survived by four daughters: Phyllis Lemna Barnick, Enderlin, N.D., Betty Revier, Mahnomen, Doris (Ordell) McCollum and Mary (Scott) Francis, both of Detroit Lakes; 23 grandchildren; 53 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Marcella “Sally” Viere, Waite Park, and Rose Spanier, St. Joseph. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter and son-in-law, Geraldine (Jim) Boisjolie; granddaughter, Sharon Boisjolie; sons-in-law: Richard Lemna, Joe Revier and Raymond Barnick; three sisters; four brothers and one adopted brother.

Arrangements entrusted to Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online tribute video and guestbook at www.andersonfamilyfh.com.

 Shirley T. Heidgerken, age 75 of Freeport, died after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, at her home in Freeport, Minn.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. A private entombment will take place at a later date in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the church in Freeport.

 Shirley Theresa Rose was born Oct. 13, 1940, in Freeport, Minn.,  to Sylvester and Monica (Hiltner) Rose.  Shirley graduated from Melrose High School in 1958.  She married Charles Henry Heidgerken on May 5, 1962, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport.  Shirley and Charlie owned and operated Charlie’s Café in Freeport for 36 years, retiring in January of 1999.  Shirley enjoyed traveling, especially to Mexico and Las Vegas, but also ventured to more exotic places such as Europe, Africa, and much of the Caribbean.  She also enjoyed spending time at various resorts in Northern Minnesota as well as frequenting the many casinos in Minnesota.  Shirley enjoyed shopping, playing cards, fishing, and was an avid reader.  However, her most cherished moments were those spent with her family.

 Survivors include her daughters, Sheila (Maynard) Kettler of Freeport and Paula (Paul) Hughes of Avon; son, Kurt Heidgerken of Minneapolis; daughter-in-law, Pam Pierskalla of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Keshia (Alex) Hermann of St. Cloud, Kai Kettler of Freeport, Alison, Megan, and Katelin Hughes of Avon; great-grandson, Lincoln Hermann of St. Cloud; sisters, Lou Ann Bushman of New Munich and Joyce Bjerke of New Brighton; and many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

 Shirley was preceded in death by her son, Karl; husband, Charlie; parents, Sylvester and Monica Rose; brothers-in-law, Boyce Bushman, Howard Bjerke, George Heidgerken, and James Heidgerken; and sister-in-law, Rita Heidgerken.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Shirley’s and Charlie’s Godchildren, Kim Weiner, Jill Pomroy, Craig Heidgerken, Mark Heidgerken, Kyle Heidgerken, and her granddaughter’s husband, Alex Hermann. Cross bearer will be Keshia Kettler-Hermann and scripture bearer will be Kai Kettler. Gift bearers will be Alison, Megan, and Katelin Hughes and lector will be Nathan Bjerke.

 Shirley expressed that she would prefer memorials be sent to the Sacred Heart School Gymnasium fund in Freeport.  The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Donald Jurgens and the Heartland Hospice team for the compassionate and excellent care they gave her. 

 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Freeport.

Sharen M. Kutter, age 65 of Melrose, went to be with her Lord Jesus on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, surrounded by her loving family at the Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany, Minn.

 A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, at First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre with Pastor Mike Carlson officiating. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Grey Eagle following the lunch.

Sharen Marie Law was born in Valley City, North Dakota to Henry and Ione (Dahl) Law on Aug.  4, 1950, having been born the second twin.  She grew up in Cooperstown, North Dakota until the age of seven.  The family then moved to Seattle, Washington.   Her mother passed away when Sharen was the age of ten.  At age 15, Sharen moved to Brainerd, Minnesota to live with her aunt and uncle, Illa and Donald Hines.

 In 1968, Sharen met Roy Kutter of Grey Eagle.  The couple married in 1969 and from this union, they were blessed with three beautiful daughters.  Sharen worked at the Grey Eagle School District for five years and then at the Farmer’s Cooperative Elevator in Sauk Centre.  For the next ten years, she worked for Long Prairie Produce in Long Prairie. She then moved on to be the Credit/Office Manager for St. Martin Cooperative Association in St. Martin for 15 years. 

 Sharen was a member of First Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre.  She was on the Sauk River Watershed board for nine years and was also on the Planning and Zoning board for the city of Melrose for two years.  Sharen enjoyed Rosemaling (Norwegian Painting) and doing crafts with her husband.  He was the woodcrafter and Sharen painted everything.  She also enjoyed bowling, gardening, playing cards, especially Pinochle, and spending time with her family. Sharen felt truly blessed to have such a supportive and loving family, which meant so much to her.  She will be deeply missed.

 Survivors include her loving husband of 46 years, Roy Kutter of Melrose; daughters, Tamara (Gary) Von Wahlde of Sauk Centre, Kristi (Brian) Wiechmann of Melrose, and Jennifer (Bryan) Wiens of Albany; eight grandchildren, Carstin, Dylan, McKenna, Derek, Coltin, Kiana, Lauren, and Caiden; special loving cousins who she considered brothers, Donald T. Hines of Brainerd and Todd Hines of Stacy; very dear aunt, Roberta Law of Little Falls; special Godchild, Kaitlyn Erickson of Merrifield; brothers and sisters, Karen Imoe of South Carolina, Kay (Blair) Ostenson of Fort Worth, Texas, Wesley Law of Naples, Maine, Diane (Keith) Roberts of Puyallup, Washington, and Randy (Michelle) Law of Weatherford, Texas.

 Sharen was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Renee Boe, and special loving aunt and uncle, Illa and Donald Hines.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Tim Brastrup, Don Hines, Todd Hines, Gary Von Wahlde, Brian Wiechmann, and Bryan Wiens.  Honorary bearers will be Carstin Von Wahlde, Dylan Wiechmann, McKenna Von Wahlde, Derek Wiechmann, Coltin Von Wahlde, Kiana Wiechmann, Lauren Wiens, and Caiden Wiens.

 Arrangements made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

Aurelia S. Schwieters, age 91 of Melrose, died peacefully, with family at her side on Monday, Jan. 18 at the CentraCare Health Pine Haven Nursing Home in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Aurelia Stalboerger Schwieters was born Jan. 16, 1925, in Spring Hill, Minn., to John and
Caroline (Dickmann) Stalboerger. She married Herbert Schwieters on May 26, 1948. Together they started a dairy  farm and had 12 children – nine boys and three girls (they often joked that they had a baseball team and three cheerleaders!). Aurelia was a lifelong Minnesota Twins fan. Along with her love of baseball, she loved cooking, baking, reading, traveling, praying,  and playing cards but most importantly, she loved being surrounded by family and friends.

 Aurelia was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald, MN.

 Although impossible to put 91 years into words, we feel the following seven best describe this incredible woman and mother: Adorable, Understanding, Resilient, Ethical, Loving, Inspirational, and Appreciative.

 Survivors include her children, Tom (Barb) Schwieters of Melrose, Richard (Shari) Schwieters of Brooklyn Center, Bob (Kathy) Schwieters of Glenwood, Dennis (Lorine) Schwieters of Prior Lake, Joel (Cindi) Schwieters  of Stillwater, John (Lynnea) Schwieters of Dellwood, Leo (Robin) Schwieters of Rogers, Mary (Kevin) 

Athmann of Hopkins, Caroline (Dan) Wander of Dayton, and Gloria (Randy) Welle of Melrose;

Alcuin A. “Al” Pung, age 92 of Freeport, passed away in his sleep on Monday, Jan. 18, 2016, at the St. Benedict’s Senior Community in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 22 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Alcuin Arnold Pung was born June 26, 1923, in Spring Hill, Minn., to Frank and Margaret (Schieman) Pung. He was born and raised on the Century Family Farm. Al married Bernadetta Bertram on June 19, 1945 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic  Church in Belgrade. The couple farmed east of Freeport for many years before retiring in 1977. Al drove school bus for the St. Cloud School District for 20 years. He enjoyed traveling and has been to every state in the U.S. He also did crafts and woodworking  and made items like doll houses and Jesus plaques.

 He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, St. Peter’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud, St. Joseph’s Men’s Society of Freeport, and the St. Cloud Knights of Columbus Bishop Zardetti Council #5548.

Survivors include his children, Darlene (Lavern) Ludwig of St. Nicholas, Jean (Don) Felling of Plymouth, Duane (Kathy) Pung of Freeport, Brenda (Mike) Wiechmann of St. Rosa, Deb (Tom) Thielman of St. Cloud, Randy Pung of Sauk Rapids, and  Mary Lane (Scott) Packer of Granby, Colo.; 23 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Ida Pung of Melrose.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bernadetta Pung on Nov. 20, 2001; grandson, Craig Wiechmann; and brothers, Ignatius Pung and Frank Pung Jr.

 Serving as casket bearers were Dusty Pung, Kellie Heinen, Adam Wiechmann, Glen Ludwig, Jeremiah Pung, Stephaney Thielman, Ryan Ludwig and Kevin Ludwig. Serving as cross bearer was Jena Pung and scripture bearer was Amy Crews. Pall bearers were Jane Konz, Leroy 

Ludwig, Christopher Thielman, and Josh Pung. Gift bearers were Maryjo Ludwig, Ashley Henderson and Stacy Lilienthal. Eucharistic  Minister was Brenda Wiechmann. 

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Freeport.       B4-1B

 Anton H. “Tony” Wegleitner, age 99 of Melrose, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, Jan. 22, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, Jan. 25, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating, Rev. Ken Thielman concelebrating, and Deacon Ernie Kociemba assisting. Interment was  in the parish cemetery.

Anton Hubert
Wegleitner was born July 9, 1916, in Krain Township, Stearns County, Minn., to Paul and Rose (Schmitz) Wegleitner. He was united in marriage to Verena Heinen on Nov. 23, 1937, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. Tony farmed north of Freeport until his retirement in January of 1978. 

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose.  Tony enjoyed dancing and deer hunting his entire life. He also enjoyed woodworking and painting everything red, playing checkers and cards, especially Solo, and loved spending time with his family and friends.    

Survivors include his children, Leander (Pat) Wegleitner of Sun Lakes, Arizona, Julius “Joe” 

(Carol) Wegleitner of Burtrum, Tony, Jr. (Kerry) 

Wegleitner of Coon Rapids, David (Linda) Wegleitner of Grey Eagle, Dale (Joan) Wegleitner of Melrose, Darrell (Anette) Wegleitner of Freeport, Deborah (LeRoy) Sand of Albany, and Denise Wegleitner of Portland, Oregon; 17 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Peggy Wegleitner of Grey Eagle.

Tony was preceded in death by his wife, 

Verena Wegleitner on Nov. 3, 2013; parents; son, Kenneth 

Wegleitner on Sept. 3, 2011; great-grandsons, William Richard Karbo II and Carson David Sand; and all of his brothers and sisters. 

Serving as casket bearers were Jim 

Wegleitner, Alan 

Wegleitner, Jason Sand, Jay Wegleitner, Shannon Wegleitner, and Brian Wegleitner. Cross bearer was Bonnie Kluempke and scripture bearer was Kayla Wegleitner.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose. B4-1B

Raymond B. “Ray” Worms, age 97 of Greenwald, died Saturday, Jan. 23, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose, Minn.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald with Rev. Gregory Lieser officiating and Rev. Ken Thielman and Rev. Marvin Enneking concelebrating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

 Raymond Bernard Worms was born Aug. 28, 1918, in Spring Hill Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Lambert and Agnes (Ellering) Worms. He married Frances
Lieser on Oct. 18, 1943, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville. Together the couple farmed south of Greenwald. They retired in 1981 and moved to town.

He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, driving on the country roads checking out the crops, but most of all, spending time with his family and grandchildren.

 Ray was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald, St. Michael’s Men’s Society, 4th Degree Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council #1633; Catholic United Financial, and the Greenwald Lions Club.

 Survivors include his children, Margie (Bob) Illies of Belgrade, Celine (Neil) Fischer of Paynesville, Mary Kay (Art) Funk of New Munich, Ruth (Gary) Rothstein of St. Martin, Bob (Donna) Worms of Greenwald, Joe (Sandy) Worms of Glenwood, Brenda (Mark)
Breitbach of Sauk Centre, Amy (Tim) Reinarts of Ramsey, and Julie (Todd) Imdieke of St. Cloud; 33 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild on the way; and sister-in-law, Edna Worms of Melrose.

 Ray was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Frances Worms on July 16, 1999; great-grandson, Isaac Funk; brothers, Herbert, Luverne, Leonard, and Melvin Worms; and sisters, Lorraine Imdieke and 

Bernice Athmann.

 Casket bearers will be Rick Illies, Brent Funk, Kurt Rothstein, Nicholas Worms, Joshua Worms,
Matthew Breitbach, Mitchell Reinarts, and Trent Imdieke. Cross bearer will be Joel Fischer and scripture bearer will be Lisa Weimerskirch.  Readers will be Jennifer Spanier and Jacquelyn Rae Schoenberg. Honorary bearers will be Ray’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.          B4-1B

Hammarsten, 95, of Melrose, passed away peacefully at Pine Villa Center in Melrose on Jan. 13, 2016.

Per Jim’s request a graveside service celebrating his life will be held at the Lakeview Cemetery, (Big Birch Lake), Grey Eagle in July.

Jim was born on March 25, 1920, in Grey Eagle to Francis Ragnar “Hammar” and Julia Linnea (Hammargren) Hammarsten. He graduated from Grey Eagle High School in 1938. He received his Bachelor’s Degree and Medical Degree (1944) from the University of Minnesota. He married his medical school classmate Dorothea “Dee” Jung on April 15, 1944. Jim went on to complete his internship at the University of Oklahoma Hospitals, OKC and his residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Minnesota Hospitals and the Minneapolis, VA Hospital.

Jim served in the US Army from 1945-1947 and in the US Air Force in 1953. He later joined the Army Reserves, retiring as a Colonel in 1984.

Between 1949 and 1986, Jim served as Professor of Medicine at the University of Minnesota, University of Oklahoma, and the University of Washington.  From 1982 to 1986, he served as a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the School of Health Sciences at Boise State University, Boise, ID.

From 1953 to 1962, Jim served as Chief of Medicine at the Oklahoma City, VA Hospital. From 1962 to 1966, he served as Chief of Medicine at the St. Paul-Ramsey Hospitals, St. Paul, MN. From 1967 to 1977, he served as Professor of Medicine and Head, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Oklahoma OKC. From 1977 to 1986 he served as Chief of Medicine at the Boise VA Hospital. Jim retired in 1986 and started his next career, lasting ten years, as the medical expert testifying at Social Security disability hearings in Minneapolis.

During his career, Dr. Hammarsten was the author or co-author of approximately ninety publications on a variety of scientific subjects including numerous papers (and lectures) on one of his favorite subjects; the Physicians on the Lewis and Clark Expedition.  He begins as a student researching the Expedition, but became an expert on the subject.

    Dr. Hammarsten’s honors are numerous and include induction into the American Lung Association Hall of Fame, being made an Honorary Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians, having a conference room dedicated in his name at the VA Hospital in Oklahoma City, having the annual meeting of the Oklahoma Thoracic Society named in his honor, “The Hammarsten Pulmonary Conference”, being awarded the Breath of Life Award from the Oklahoma Lung Association, having an annual teaching award named in his honor at the VA Medical Center in Oklahoma City, being awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents (one of only a thousand at the time), Mastership in the American College of Physicians and receiving the Minnesota Laureate Award from the American College of Physicians. 

Jim and Dee played a major role in encouraging and supporting various individuals to pursue careers in medicine. After the fall of South Vietnam, he created programs in Oklahoma City arranging for housing, financial support, and the American medical education/licensing for over 200 Vietnamese physicians. 

Jim was an outstanding professor of medicine/teacher and attending physician who willingly gave of himself to the needs of his students, residents, fellows, and patients (especially the veterans).  He once stated he wanted his epitaph to read “He taught his students to be complete, compassionate physicians.”

Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle who was proud of his small town upbringing and enjoyed the outdoors. He was always happy to host a gathering on shore or on the island at Big Birch Lake which, to him, was Lake Wobegon.

Jim and Dee were avid world travelers. Special trips included many to Saigon and Paris. For many decades, Jim’s favorite way to relax was to have a beer while cooking; having honed his skills at a cooking school in Paris.

Survivors include his children, Linnea Louise Ingold of Melrose, MN, Dr. James Eric (Beth) Hammarsten of Tulsa, OK, Richard Anders (Cathy) Hammarsten of Oklahoma City, OK; grandchildren, Kristi, Jacki, Kirk (Mandi), Eric (Allicia), Britt, and Carl (Dee); 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Judy Jarsko of White Bear Lake, MN; brother-in-law, Frank Jung (Carol) of Sun City West, AZ; special friends Wayne (JoAnn) Tschida and family of Melrose, MN; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dee; infant son; son-in-law, Harry Ingold; sisters, Lorraine Johnson and Dorothy Ericson; as well as many other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.  Arrangements are with Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud, MN.

Barbara A. “Barb” Bloch, 66 of Albany, died peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016, at the Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta, Minn.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 6 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with Rev. Cletus Connors, O.S.B. officiating. A private entombment will be held in the parish cemetery at a later date.

     Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Seven Dolors Gathering Area in Albany.  Parish prayers will be held at 4 p.m. Friday evening at the Seven Dolors Gathering Area in Albany.

 Barbara Ann Breuer was born Dec. 17, 1949, in Northfield, Minn.,  to Edwin and Lorraine (Goodwill) Breuer.  She completed her elementary and high school education in Shakopee and graduated from St. Catherine University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Barb was united in marriage to Gary Bloch on June 24, 1972,  in Shakopee.  Barb taught at St. John’s/St. Andrew’s Catholic Schools in Greenwald/Meire Grove and most recently worked at Index 53 in St. Stephen.

 She was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany, Albany Book Club, and the American Legion Auxiliary Post 482.  Barb enjoyed reading, painting, drawing, crocheting, gardening, and loved spending time with her family and friends.  She freely gave her time, energy, and compassion to serve and help others.  Barb was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who will be deeply missed.

 Survivors include her husband, Gary Bloch of Albany; son, Jason (Paula) Bloch of St. Joseph; daughter, Jennifer (Shawn) McGee of St. Louis Park; granddaughter, Arika Bloch; sisters, Jane Jeske of Apple Valley and Diana (Richard) Anacker of Comfrey; and brother, Alan (Teresa) Breuer of Apache Junction, Arizona.

 Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Lorraine and Edwin Breuer; and mother and father-in-law, Paul and Helen Bloch.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Gary Bloch, Judy Fischer, Jason Bloch, Alan Breuer, Clarence Fischer, and Shawn McGee.  Cross bearer will be Diana Anacker and scripture bearer will be Richard Anacker.  Honorary bearer will be Jennifer McGee, Janet Jeske, Diana Anacker, Paula Bloch, Evie Fischer, Mary Breimhorst, Paul Rushmeyer, Geralyn Schmainda, and members of the St. Cloud Police Department.  Readers will be Teresa Breuer and Carol Ritchell and the petitions will be read by Mary Greeley.  Gift bearers will be Pete Rushmeyer, Debbie Rushmeyer, and Sue Rushmeyer and a eulogy will be read by Jenny McGee and family.  Eucharistic Minister will be Lowell Rushmeyer and special music will be sung by Janet Jeske. 

 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Joan A. Rahn, age 75 of Burtrum, died peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Hospital in Melrose, Minn.

A funeral service was held  Monday, Feb. 8, at the United Methodist Church in Grey Eagle with Rev. Gary Taylor officiating.  Interment was in Moses Dane Cemetery in Burtrum.

Joan Adele Clay was born Sept. 13, 1940 in Long Beach, California to Zerl and Velma (Johnson) Clay. Joan’s family traveled and lived in many states while Zerl served in the U.S. Navy. She graduated from Alameda High School in California and traveled shortly after to Minnesota where she met her husband, Kenny. Kenneth and Joan were married on Jan.  31, 1959, in Milbank, South Dakota, with the temperatures nearing -30. The couple then began starting a family on the farm near Burtrum and raised 4 wonderful children. Joan loved gardening, canning, crocheting, cooking, and fishing with her husband. 

Joan was a member of the United Methodist Church in Grey Eagle.

Survivors include her mother, Velma Clay of Melrose; husband of 57 years, Kenny Rahn of Burtrum; children, Cathy (Joe) Lyon of Holdingford, David (Lisa) Rahn of Melrose, Jean (Bob) Frieler of Seattle, WA, and Danny “Bubba” (Nancy) Rahn of Melrose; brother and sister, Jerry (Bev) Clay of St. Cloud, and Jodi (Yancy) Yungdahl of Seattle, WA; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Joan was preceded in death by her father, Zerl Clay; and parents-in-law, Bertha Besnett and Leonard Rahn.

Serving as casket bearers were Ben Frieler, Bob Frieler, Joe Lyon, Chris Lyon, Tim Rahn, and Nate Rahn.

Arrangements with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Grey Eagle. 

Ronald W. “Ron” Roelike, age 46 of Melrose, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

 Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. Parish prayers will be at 5 p.m. followed by the Catholic United Financial at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

 Ronald Walter Roelike was born Oct. 5, 1969, in Albany, Minn.,  to Joseph and Margurite (Dobmeier) Roelike. He graduated from Melrose High School in 1988 and began working on the family farm. He enjoyed watching and playing sports, 4-wheeling, listening to country music, and spending time with his family, especially his nephews and niece.

Ron was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Catholic United Financial.

 Survivors include his parents, Joe and Marge Roelike of Melrose; brothers and sister, Randy Roelike of Melrose; Russ (Kayla) Roelike of Melrose and their children, Braden and Katelyn; Kristine (Sean) Anderson and their son, Carter of Sauk Rapids.

 Ron was preceded in death by his grandparents, Walter and Florina
Dobmeier and Othmar and Frances Roelike; uncles, Marvin Dobmeier, Roger Dobmeier, and Cyril Wiechmann.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Randy Roelike, Russ Roelike, Sean
Anderson, Michael Harne, Tom Fischbach, and Joe Wiechmann. Cross bearer will be Kristine Anderson and scripture bearer will be Kayla Roelike. Gift bearers will be Donnie and Kathy Dobmeier.

 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Rosemary “Rosie” Ostendorf, age 69 of Melrose and formerly of New Munich, died peacefully, with her family by her side on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016,  at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minn. Her strong will to live, faith in God, and the love and prayers of family and friends carried her through her courageous six-month battle with lymphoma cancer.

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held  Tuesday, Feb. 9, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Rosemary Ostendorf was born March 2, 1946,  in Melrose, Minn.,  to John and Marie (Rosen) Thell. She grew up on a family farm southeast of Grey Eagle. She was a graduate of Grey Eagle High School in 1964. After graduation, she went to work in Minneapolis for Bemis Bag Company. She then worked in St. Cloud at J.C. Penney. On April 30, 1966, she married Marvin “Bud”
Ostendorf at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle. Bud and Rosie took over the family business, Ostendorf’s Grocery in New Munich, from his parents, John and Katherine (Vos) Ostendorf. She was in the grocery business for 33 years and worked at Kohl’s in St. Cloud for 22 years.

Rosie was a people person; she always enjoyed working with her customers and valued those relationships. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved decorating, sewing, dancing, baking, bowling, dominoes, Bingo, playing cards “65”, shopping, and going out to eat. Rosie also enjoyed taking bus trips to the casino. She loved entertaining her family and friends the most.

 Rosie was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Ann’s Christian Women, Catholic United Financial, and the New Munich Lions. She was a Eucharistic Minister since 1978 and was a past board member for Melrose Community Health Care Foundation.

 Survivors include her husband, Marvin “Bud” Ostendorf of Melrose; children, Michael “Ozzie” Ostendorf (friend, Audri) of Waite Park, Kim (Jerome) Duevel of Melrose, Todd (LeAnn) Ostendorf of Melrose; three grandchildren, Morgan Ostendorf, Andrew Ostendorf, Jonathan Ostendorf; brothers and sisters, Doris (Hilary) Mayers of Fridley, Alice (Tom) Wiechmann-Studer of St. Wendel, Arnie (Betty) Thell of St. Cloud, Jim Thell (friend, Kelly) of Waite Park, Karen (Bob) Weidner of St. Cloud; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

 Rosie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marie Thell; and brother-in-law, Richard “Rich” Wiechmann.

Serving as casket bearers were Leon Mayers, Dan Weidner, Chris Wiechmann, Mark Ostendorf, John Ostendorf, and Gregg Simonson. Cross bearer was Jayla Schloegl and scripture bearer was Sherry Welliver. Gift bearers were Lori Koester, Gail Davis, and Beth Terning. Lector was Mary Krueger. Eulogy was  read by Gregg Simonson. Honorary bearers were the St. Anne’s Christian Women and the New Munich Lions. 

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Bette June Zirbes, age 88 of Melrose, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Inurnment was held in the parish cemetery.

Bette June Hinman was born Sept. 9, 1927, in Grey Eagle Village, Todd County, Minn., to Arthur and Eva (Close) Hinman. She was united in marriage to Donald “Supe” Zirbes on Dec. 13, 1952. June worked at the Melrose Public Schools from 1972 through 1985 in food services and was a wonderful homemaker to her husband and family. She volunteered for many years at Pine Villa Nursing Home in Melrose and also with Meals on Wheels.

She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose, Christian Mothers, Legion of Mary, Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary, Big Birch Lake Association, and a member of TOPS for ten years. June enjoyed fishing, smelting, playing BINGO, and loved making people smile when she was a clown. She was very gifted in the kitchen where she enjoyed cooking and baking, especially baking banana bread for her grandchildren. June was fondly called “June Bug” by CentraCare staff and greeted everyone with the song, “You Are My Sunshine.” 

 Survivors include her children, Joan (Ken)
Voigt of Alexandria,
Donald, Jr. (Carol) Zirbes of Two Harbors, Linda (Lonny) Laforge of Albany, Debi (Brendan) Larson of Sauk Rapids, Mary Zirbes of Maple Lake, and Becky Roering of Lino Lakes; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

 June was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Zirbes on Sept. 4, 1984; grandchildren, Nicholas Zirbes, Toni Marie Laforge, Joshua Zirbes; sister, Patricia Bryan; and brothers, Richard Hinman and Keith Hinman.

Serving as urn bearer were Nathan Larson. Cross bearer was Jenna Roering and scripture bearer was Jesse Roering. Honorary bearers were Rosemary Johnson, Lorraine Bierschbach, Ellie Olmscheid, and the TOPS ladies.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.       B7-1B