Charles B. “Chuck” Poepping, age 63 of St. Rosa, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2016, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 12 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.

Charles Bernard Poepping was born Sept. 4, 1952, in Melrose to Sylvester and Irene (Dickhaus) Poepping. He graduated from Melrose High School in 1971. Chuck held a variety of jobs after graduation including carpentry, tiling in the Elrosa area, and finally farming on the family farm near St. Rosa. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. Chuck enjoyed snowmobile racing, motorcycling, four-wheeling, fishing, and loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his significant other, Diane Czech of St. Rosa; son, Nicholas Poepping; brother and sisters, Glen (Val) Poepping of Cold Spring, Betty (Allen) Bertram of St. Cloud, Connie (Florian) Sprenger of St. Rosa, and Lois (Wayne) Notsch of Little Falls.

 Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Irene Poepping.

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

Robert P. “Bob” Peters, age 86 of Sauk Centre, died peacefully, with his family by his side on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17,  at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Greg Paffel officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Sauk Centre with military honors provided by the Sauk Centre United Veterans Honor Guard.

Robert Peter Peters was born Dec. 2, 1929, in Belgrade, Minnesota to Alphonse and Cora (Wiener) Peters. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for two years.  On Sept. 27, 1955, he married Valeria Weber at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Elrosa. The couple farmed in the Sauk Centre area until 1994 when they retired and moved to town. Bob served on the Land O’ Lakes District Boards, Sauk Centre Creamery Board for 31 years, and the North Fork Insurance Board for 24 years.

Bob was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, Bishop Busch Council 4863 Knights of Columbus, Queen of Peace General Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, and was a life member of Paul F. Donart VFW Post 2853. He enjoyed farming, the spring time, especially when the snow melted and the water ran away, and most importantly, spending time together with family.

 Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Valeria Peters of Sauk Centre; children, Barb (Denny) Honzay of Olivia, Bev (Larry) Hoppe of Osakis, Mike (Deb) Peters of Avon, and Ann (Paul) Novotny of Greenfield; ten grandchildren, Mark (Alysia), Laura, Sarah, and Jacob Honzay, Mathew, Karla, and Aaron Hoppe, Derek Peters, and Andrew and Leah Novotny; great-grandson, William Robert Honzay; brothers, George (Delores) Peters of Sauk Centre, Richard (Alice) Peters of Sauk Centre, and Herb (Alice) Peters of Sauk Centre; and sister-in-law, Carol Peters of West St. Paul.

 Bob was preceded in death by his parents; infant children, Mary and Joseph; brother, Jim Peters; brother-in law, Art Weber; sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Bob Spanier; five Spanier nieces and nephews; nephew, Gary Peters; and niece, Lisa (Weber) Schoenberg.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Bob’s grandsons, Mathew Hoppe, Mark Honzay, Aaron Hoppe, Jacob Honzay, Andrew Novotny, and Derek Peters. Cross bearer will be granddaughter, Karla Hoppe and scripture bearer will be granddaughter, Laura Honzay.  Gift bearers will be granddaughters, Sarah Honzay and Leah Novotny.  Honorary bearers will be the Bishop Busch Council #4863 Knights of Columbus. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. 

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

Esther J. Hinnenkamp, age 87 of Sauk Centre, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, Feb.  14, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Jeremy Theis officiating and Rev. Mike Van Sloun concelebrating. Interment will be in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Sauk Centre.

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 Sauk Centre. Parish prayers will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Esther Josephine Frericks was born Sept. 27, 1928, in Freeport, Minn.,  to Herman and Walburga (Beste) Frericks. On June 7, 1950, she married Alvin Hinnenkamp at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport. The couple moved north of Sauk Centre where they farmed until their retirement in 1985.  Esther was also employed at the St. Cloud Hospital and Web Printing.  She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, Christian Mothers, and the Homemakers Group.  Esther enjoyed crocheting and sewing quilts, cooking and baking, gardening, and taking care of her family.

Survivors include her children, Ruth (Dan) Pohlmann of Sauk Centre, Rose (Rick) Tschida of Belgrade, Jean Guettler of St. Cloud, David (Donna) Hinnenkamp of Sauk Centre, Vernon (Renee) Hinnenkamp of Andover, Loren (Linda) Hinnenkamp of St. Joseph, and Linda (Mike) Rolek of Otsego; sons-in-law, Dan (Ann) Malone of Madison, Wisconsin and Fred Pohlmann of Willmar; 23 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; sisters, Alma Schulte of Freeport and Louise (Don) Haskamp of Blaine; and brother, Erwin Frericks of Blaine.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Hinnenkamp on July 24, 2011; daughters, Marilyn Malone and Karen Pohlmann; sisters, Marie Zwilling and Florence Austing; and brothers, Ambrose, Elmer, Ray, Jerome, and Roman Frericks. 

Serving as casket bearers will be Chris Tschida, Eric Pohlmann, Joe Malone, Nick Hinnenkamp, Shane Hinnenkamp, and Aaron Pohlmann.  Cross bearer will be Andrew Guettler and scripture bearer will be Angie Tschida.

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

Brent and Keyandra Harren of Melrose are proud to announce the birth of their son, Auggie James Harren, born Monday, Feb. 8, 2016 at 4:15 p.m. at CentraCare Health-Melrose.

He weighed 9 pounds, 6 ounces, and measured 21 inches long.

He is welcomed home by big sister Mia, 8, and big brother Ethin, 3. 

Grandparents are Jack and April Quistorff of Sauk Centre and Dan and Sue Harren of Melrose.

Great-grandparents are Victor Tschida of Melrose and Joe and Pat Mikacevich of White Bear Lake.

Robert “Bob” F. Zeis, age 88 of Mound Lake-Burtrum, died peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016,  at his home on Mound Lake near Burtrum, Minn.  

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016, at St. Joseph Catholic Church  in Grey Eagle with Rev. Ronald Dockendorf presiding. Interment with full military honors took place at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 22 in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.

Robert Frank Zeis was born Oct. 23, 1927 in Krain Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to John and Mary (Ebnet)  Zeis. Bob attended country school and began working for Northern States Power (NSP) as a lineman at age 17. Bob moved to California when he was 20 years old.  He joined the U.S. Army National Guard and served his country during the Korean War from 1950 -1952  as a Staff Sargent.  Following his discharge from the Army, he moved back to Minnesota and continued to work for NSP.  Bob was united in marriage to Judith Marie Autio on April 26, 1969 in Webster, South Dakota.  Bob and Judy made their home in Brooklyn Center,  MN where he and Judy raised their family of five children.  He retired from NSP in 1985 and moved to their lake home near Burtrum.  Bob and Judy traveled extensively to many parts of the world during their retirement.  Bob enjoyed fishing in Alaska and Canada,  hunting, wintering in Florida, and playing cribbage and shuffle board.

He was member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle and American Legion Post # 211 in Holdingford.    

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Judy Zeis of Grey Eagle; children, Glenn Richard (Nancy) Zeis of Bloomington,  Terry (Mike) Beauchane of Naperville, Illinois, Mary (Greg) Irvine of Brookston, John (Sherry) Zeis of Burtrum, and Julie (Glen) Meyer of Freeport; brothers and sister, Ervin Zeis, Don Zeis, Jerry Zeis and Rita Zenzen; twelve grandchildren; and eighteen great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Fred Schmitt and Alan Zeis.  

Serving as casket bearers were his grandsons, Matt Beauchane, Marc Beauchane, John Irvine, Jacob Zeis, Jordan Meyer,  Jerome Meyer, and Ryan Meyer. Serving as honorary casket bearers were his granddaughters, Andrea Gulbranson, Rachel Klinnert, Jessy DeZeeuw, Ann Beauchane, and Matti Meyer.  Cross bearer was Mattie Meyer and Mike Beauchane served as scripture bearer.    

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

Selestine “Sally” A. Korte-Power, age 90 of Sauk Centre died peacefully on Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre, Minn.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24,  at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Greg Paffel presiding.  Interment will be in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Sauk Centre. 

Selestine Appolonia Middendorf was born June 1, 1925, in Melrose, Minn.,  the daughter of Fred and Theresia (Hiltner) Middendorf.  Sally attended country school in rural Melrose.  On Sept. 25, 1945, she was united in marriage to Raymond I. Korte in St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose.  Together, Sally and Ray raised their family of three children in Sauk Centre.  While their family was growing, Sally served as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts and a Troup Leader for the Girl Scouts. Sally began working at St. Michael’s Hospital in Sauk Centre in 1968 in the housekeeping department.  After working for more than 25 years, Sally retired in 1994 from St. Michael’s Hospital and Nursing Home as the Head of Housekeeping.  Her husband, Raymond passed away on Jan.  3, 1985.  Years later, she began dating Robert Power, who owned the neighboring summer cabin on Sauk Lake and was married to him in 1995 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre.  Sally and Bob continued to make their home in Sauk Centre.  Bob passed away in 1998.  Sally enjoyed painting ceramics, crafting of all types, and was an excellent cook and seamstress.

Sally was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre, Christian Mothers, and Sauk Centre Paul F. Donart VFW Post 2853 Auxiliary.  

She is survived by her children, Kenneth Korte of Apple Valley, Keith (Connie) Korte of Jacksonville, Florida, and Gail (Greg) Lehner of Sauk Centre; grandchildren, Bryan (Carissa) Moritz of Elk River and Kimberly (Dennis) Engman of Lino Lakes; brothers and sisters, John (Mary Jane) Middendorf of Melrose, Helen Jacobs of Melrose, Gene (Mary Ann) Middendorf of Melrose, Bernadette (Fred) Korte of Sauk Centre, and Donna Tiemann of St. Paul; nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Sally was preceded in death by husbands, Raymond Korte and Robert Power; sister, Mary Ann Kent; and a brother in infancy, Bernard Middendorf.  

Serving as casket bearers will be Jim Korte, Tom Jacobs, Linda Stine, and Chad Middendorf. Cross bearer will be her grandson Bryan Moritz.

Funeral arrangements were handled by Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre.

Julius H. Korte, loving Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, age 85, of West St. Paul, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Feb. 23, 2016. 

He retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 30 years of service. He was a long-time member of 3M RC Flyers Club. 

Julius was preceded in death by wife, Eileen; son, Greg; twin sisters, Alice Kerfeld and Rica Korte; brothers, Urban and Lawrence Korte; first wife, Dorothy (Meyer) Korte; brothers-in-law, Virgil Kerfeld, Hubert Bielejeski and Al Beuning. 

He is survived by children, Jack (Nancy) Korte; Mary Beth (Jim) McEvoy; loving grandchildren; sisters, Caroline Bielejeski and Esther Beuning; also many nieces and nephews. 

Mass of Christian Burial was Feb.  27 at the Church of St. Stanislaus,  St. Paul, with a private interment. 

A special thanks to the nursing staff and aides at Lilydale Senior Living, Bluestone Physicians Services and Healthpartners Hospice team.  B9-1B

Kathleen A. “Kathy” Middendorf, age 71 of Melrose, formerly of Freeport, died after a short battle with cancer on Monday, March 14, 2016, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 17, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Entombment was in the parish cemetery.

Kathleen Alvina Barthel was born Jan. 10, 1945, in Cold Spring, Minn., to Mathias and Johanna  (Buettner)  Barthel. She graduated from Melrose High School in 1962. Kathy was united in marriage to Henry “Hank” Middendorf on May 8, 1965, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. The couple lived in Alexandria from 1965 through 1972. They moved their family to Freeport and resided there until 2012 when they moved to Melrose.Kathy was very proud to be a stay at home mother to care for her family.  

She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Kathy was a very talented artist and musician. Most trips that Kathy made to St. Cloud ended with a stop at Crafts Direct and Barnes and Noble. Kathy was always dressed to the nines and never left the house without her makeup on and was rarely seen without a ribbon in her hair. She enjoyed the outdoors where she liked to feed and watch the birds, but mostly she loved spending time with her family. Kathy was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who will be deeply missed. 

Survivors include her husband, Hank Middendorf of Melrose; children, Russ Middendorf of Melrose, Glen (Karen Brinkman) Middendorf of Sartell, and Pam Bokelman of Sauk Rapids; five grandchildren, Jacquelyn, Jacob, Grace, Brandon, and Noah; and sister, Frances “Fran” Schreifels of Melrose. 

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Lorraine Schreifels; and brothers, Donald Barthel, Robert Barthel, and Allen Barthel.

Serving as casket bearers were Chris Middendorf, Dennis Middendorf, Greg Middendorf, Leon Middendorf, Sarah Middendorf, Lynn Lange and Jacob Bokelman. Cross bearer was Brandon Bokelman and scripture bearer was Grace Middendorf. Honorary bearers were members of Kathy’s Coffee Clutch and Coloring Group. 

Services by Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose. 

Olivia A. Schwieters, age 94 of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose, Minn. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 19, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich with Rev. Marvin Enneking presiding. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Olivia Ann Pundsack was born Nov. 29, 1921, in Oak Township, Stearns County, Minn., to Henry and Cecelia (Wehseler). Olivia grew up on the farm and walked to school in New Munich until the 8th grade. She married Cyril Schwieters on Oct. 24, 1944, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich. Together they raised their 11 children on the farm in New Munich until 1985 when they moved to Melrose. Olivia loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, playing cards, bingo, fishing, bowling, and trips to the casino.

She was member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Catholic Order of Foresters, Sr. Citizens, and the New Munich Christian Mothers.  

Survivors include her children, Alice (Math) Breitbach of Sauk Centre, David (Dolores) Schwieters of Battle Lake, Karen (Math) Hemmesch of St. Cloud, Ruth (Richard) Koetter of St. Cloud, Joe (Sharon) Schwieters of Greenwald, Irene (Roger) Zierden of St. Joseph, Norman (June) Schwieters of Holdingford, Rueben (Paula) Schwieters of New Munich, Patrick “Rick” (Cheryl) Schwieters of New Munich, Mark (Karla) Schwieters of Melrose and Joyce (Richard) Mauel of St. Cloud; sister, Jeanette (Gene) Toenies of Melrose; 32 grandchildren; and 41 great-grandchildren with 4 on the way.

Olivia was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Cyril Schwieters on Jan. 30, 2002; and all five of her brothers and four sisters. 

Serving as casket bearers were Aaron Zierden, Greg Koetter, Tanner Schwieters, Jason Schwieters, Dan Schwieters and Nathan Schwieters. Cross bearer was Mariah Schwieters and scripture bearer was Levi Schwieters. Readers were Kyle Schwieters and Gina Hemmesch. Gift bearers were Lori Peterson and Amanda Mauel. 

Services by Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, March 11, 2016, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud, Minnesota for Anna M. Jost, 84, of St. Cloud, who died March 9, 2016. Burial was at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.

Anna was born on Nov. 7, 1931, in Melrose, to Edward and Angeline (Hertzog) Wessel. She graduated from Melrose High School in 1949. She married Norbert Jost on June 19, 1954 in Melrose. Anna Mae loved music, dancing, and water-skiing. She loved to play cards and was a great poker player. 

Anna is survived by husband Norbert; children Norbert, Jr. (Lou Ann) of Richmond, Mary Beth Sebas of Fairmont, Lisa Jost of Maple Plain, Lori Jost of Venice, FL; grandchildren: Christopher, Maria and Katie Sebas; brother and sister Ralph Wessel, and Arlene Nierman.

Marcella A. “Sally” Viere, age 92 of St. Rosa, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 20, 2016, at the Sterling Park Health Care Center in Waite Park, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating.  Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

A complete obituary will be published in next week’s Beacon.

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

of Staples, Minn., died Thursday, March 17, 2016, in Monticello, Minn. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, March 21, 2016, at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Motley. 

Amy Rose Granby was born on May 29, 1991, in Staples to Carl and Lila (Schneider) Granby. She graduated from Staples Motley High School in 2009. She was a violinist and choir member and carried on those talents in her church and community. 

From 2009-2014 she attended Brainerd CLC and MState in Wadena earning her AS, AA, MAA, Billing and Coding Degrees. From 2009-2015 she also worked full time at the 64 Stop in Leader, MN and helped with the LA Pig Racing show creating a special bond with the Dauer family. In February 2015 she went to work at Centre Care Hospital in Monticello using her Medical Coding Degree. During the week she enjoyed her job, loved her new work family and created a special bond with her Aunt Rachel. Come Friday noon she was “headed north” to be with family and work at the Bears Den in Leader, doing whatever was needed. She also found time to teach VBS at the Swan Valley Lutheran Church in Leader one week every summer. She was an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Motley, MN as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, Parish Council Member, Religious Ed teacher and singing and playing violin with her sisters for Masses and special occasions. She always found time to quilt and sew special items for family and friends. Amy was a very caring and gifted person. She always had the biggest smile on her face and lit up a room when she entered. She made a lasting impression on anyone she met. She will be missed by all. 

Amy is survived by her parents, Carl and Lila Granby of Staples; siblings, Brianna of Onamia, Minn., Carrie and Carl of Staples; grandparents, Denis and Emily
Schneider of Meire Grove, Minn., and Alice Granby of Staples; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Carl Granby; and uncle, Sam Schneider. 

Arrangements entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples.                        

Frank A. Hartung, age 85 of Melrose, died peacefully Saturday, March 26, 2016, after a long battle with cancer, at his home in Melrose, Minn.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 31, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

 Visitation will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. A rosary will be said at 5:30 p.m. followed by parish prayers at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

 Frank Albert Hartung was born Nov. 4, 1930 in Holdingford, Township, Stearns County, Minn., to Sebastian and Frances (Young) Hartung. He was united in marriage to Evangeline Klaphake on Nov.  26, 1955, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. In 1960 the couple started farming north of Melrose. During their farming years, Frank worked at the Melrose Creamery for many years and in 1973 he began farming full time until his retirement in 1993.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

 Frank enjoyed bowling, playing cards, snowmobiling, golfing, and spending time at the lake with his family and friends.

 He is survived by special friend, Marcella “Sally” Hinnenkamp of Melrose; his children, Margie (Pat) Proell, of Sauk Centre, Joan (Jerry) Jackson of Melrose, Gary Fabeck of Melrose, Jane (Bruce) Montegani of Seattle, Washington, Don (Bertha) Hartung of Melrose, Karen Hartung of Long Prairie, Amy (Mike) DeGroot of Pequot Lakes, and Dale (Rayna) Hartung of Melrose; daughter-in-law, Sue Hartung of Melrose; 21 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Edwin (Adeline) Hartung of Opole, Stella Kaspers of St. Michael, and Victor (Eileen) Hartung of St. Cloud; and sister-in-law, Catherine Hartung of Upsala.

 Frank was preceded in death by his wife,
Evangeline “Vangie” Hartung on Aug. 11, 2005; son, Allan Hartung on June 7, 2008; and brothers and sister, Tony Hartung, Leo Hartung, and Sr. Eugenia Hartung.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Mike Fabeck, Aaron Vangasser, Nathan Hartung, Lance Hartung, Tim Gieske, and Justin Hartung. Cross bearer will be Chris Hartung and scripture bearer will be Jordan Hartung. Gift bearers will be Becky Gieske, Hailey
Oswskey, and Jaden
Oswskey. Reader will be Jordan Hartung. Mass server will be Tony Niehaus. Eucharistic Ministers will be Carol Niehaus, Neal Klaphake and Cindy
Woitalla.

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

Scott E. Kramer, age 58 of Melrose, formerly of Hector, passed away peacefully Friday, March 25, 2016, surrounded by his family, at his home in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 30 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Hector with Rev. George Schmit officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery in Hector. Military honors will be by the Hector American Legion Post 135.

Scott Eugene Kramer was born July 21, 1957 in Olivia to Eugene and Carol (Current) Kramer. He grew up on a farm north of Hector, was baptized, received his 1st Communion, and Confirmation at St. John’s Catholic Church. He attended school in Hector and graduated in 1976. He attended the Canby Technical School with a degree in farm machinery service. Scott enjoyed spending his time with family and friends on his sailboat on Lake Koronis. He also found an oasis of joy on the white sandy beaches in Cancun, Mexico. Scott was very adventurous, hardworking, and insightful with a huge heart. Scott was the owner and operator of Melrose Metalworks, Inc. in Melrose which he founded 18 years ago.

 Scott is survived by his parents, Eugene and Carol Kramer; special friend, Marta Guadiano; children, Bradley (Lindsay) Kramer of Albert Lea, Matt (Janel) Eibensteiner of Avon, Anita (Mike) Borgerding of Albany, Kim (Charlie) Doth of Sartell, and Nick (fiancée Jackie) Eibensteiner of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Josh, Mary, Joseph, Gregory, Lucia, Gabriella, Scott, Gemma, Keegan, Kenna, Lauren, Ava, Cole, Sean, Courtney, and Joe; business associate, Gina Eggert; siblings, Steven (Deb) Kramer, Sharon (Howard) Pierce, Suellen Kramer, Timothy (Pam) Kramer, Todd (Stacie) Kramer, Larry (Lisa) Kramer, and Mark (Sara) Kramer; many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

 Scott was preceded in death by his grandparents; and cousins, Justin and Danny Kramer.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Gregg Kulberg, Curt Newberg, Mitch Miller, Paul Bugbee, Tom Petermeier, and Lance Olson. Cross bearers will be Lauren
Borgerding and Joe Kotzenmacher, scripture bearer will be Josh Kramer, and sailboat bearer will be
Courtney Kotzenmacher. Gift bearers will be
Keegan Eibensteiner, Kenna Eibensteiner, Ava Borgerding, and Cole Borgerding. Readers will be Mary Kramer, Kim Doth, and Anita
Borgerding. Eucharistic Ministers will be Anita Borgerding and Kim Doth. Eulogy will be read by Paul
Bugbee.

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

Lois E. Primus, age 91 of Melrose, died peacefully on Thursday, March 24, 2016 in hospice care at the Cuyuna Regional Care Center in Crosby, Minnesota.

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, March 29 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Lois Evelyn Gilley was born April 16, 1924 in Bascom, Texas to Samuel and Ella (Emmons) Gilley. On April 15, 1944 she married Donald Primus at Camp Fannin in Tyler, Texas. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and a charter member of the Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary.

 Survivors include her children, Kerry (Dick) Kerfeld of Merrifield, Barbara (Charles) Robbins of Carrollton, Texas, and Anthony Primus of Portsmouth, Virginia; four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.

 Lois was preceded in death by her husband,
Donald Primus on June 21, 1991; parents; two brothers and one sister; and grandson, Shawn Kerfeld.

 Serving as casket bearers were Bennett Kerfeld, Charles Robbins, Dick Kerfeld,
Steven Kerfeld, Jeffrey
Kerfeld, and Ralph
Revermann. Cross bearer was Joe Beckermann and scripture bearer was
Sharon Blaskowski. Gift bearers were Kelly Revermann and Joyce Beckermann.

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

Marcella A. “Sally” Viere, age 92 of St. Rosa, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 20, 2016, at the Sterling Park Health Care Center in Waite Park, Minn. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

 Marcella Anastasia Beuning was born Oct. 1, 1923, in St. Rosa, Minn., to Henry and Elizabeth (VonBokern) Beuning. She married Arnold Viere on April 10, 1944, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. Sally and Arnold farmed one-half mile east of St. Rosa until Arnold’s passing in 1980. Sally then retired and moved to Melrose. She was member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa and the Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary.

Survivors include her children, Lu Ann Davoudian of Minneapolis, Marilyn (Dan) Boeckermann of Minneapolis, Gordon (Diane) Viere of Dallas, Texas, Loren (Deb) Viere of St. Cloud, Jack (Jennifer) Viere of Dallas, Texas, Robert (Jane) Viere of Dallas, Texas, Geralyn (Jim) Dierkhising of Avon, and Tim (Pam) Viere of Minneapolis; 23 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren; and sister, Rose Spanier of St. Joseph.

Sally was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold Viere on May 26, 1980; parents; daughter, Mary Viere; brothers, William, Lawrence, Ambrose, and Jerome Beuning; sisters, Connie, Ann, Agnes, and Martha; and son-in-law, Simon Davoudian.

Casket bearers were Gordon Viere, Loren Viere, John Viere, Robert Viere, Tim Viere, Dan Boeckermann, Jim Dierkhising, and Ryan Dierkhising. Cross bearer was Alena Boeckermann and scripture bearer was Malia Boeckermann.                    

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

Jean E. Rebrovich, age 100 of Melrose and formerly of Keewatin and Florida, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, March 24, 2016, at CentraCare Health – Melrose Hospital in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, March 28, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Ken Thielmann presiding. Interment took place Tuesday, March 29, at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hibbing, Minnesota.

Jean Elizabeth Curto was born Oct. 4, 1915, in Calumet, Michigan to Angelo and Louise (Ethier) Curto. In 1933, Jean graduated from Robert L. Downing High School in Keewatin. She continued her education and graduated from the College of St. Scholastica, Duluth, MN on June 11, 1937. Jean was united in marriage to Thomas Rebrovich in 1939. Jean taught high school students in Echo, then in Keewatin and Nashwauk, Minnesota. She was proud to teach typing, bookkeeping, journalism, shorthand, business law and literature besides being the Drama Coach. Jean retired from her teaching career in 1975. Together with her husband, Tom, she enjoyed fi shing and boating, camping, and wintering in Florida. She also enjoyed playing cribbage, cards and board games. Jean loved to read and in her later years she enjoyed listening to audiobooks when she “struggled with” failing eye sight. Following Tomʼs death on Sept. 27, 1985, she continued to make her home between Melrose and Florida, before making Melrose her year-round home in 2006. Jean will be remembered for her positive attitude and her sharp mind.

Jean was a member of St. Maryʼs Catholic Church in Melrose, Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary, and the Melrose Senior Citizens.

Survivors include her sister-in-law, Lorraine Curto of Melrose; nieces and nephews, Pat (Pam) Curto, Dolly Curto, Nancy (Greg) Peters, Jeannie Curto, Diane (Mike) Brum, Toni (Joe) Borgerding, Brandan (Mary) Curto, Char (Jim) Darlington, and Jimmy (Susan) Curto; and many great nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas “Tubby” Rebrovich; parents, Angelo and Louise Curto; brother, James Curto; sister, Verna Bardine; nephews, Angelo Curto and Mickey Bardine; and great nephew, Carl Borgerding. 

Serving as casket bearers were Pat Curto, Brandan Curto, Nicholas Darlington, Tommy Borgerding, Dan Brum, and Shawn Chavez. Cross bearer was Patrick Darlington and Lindsey Darlington served as scripture bearer. Tyler Borgerding served as Mass server. Toni Borgerding shared special words of remembrance. Scriptures were read by Danny Borgerding, and Diane Brum. Prayers of the Faithful were read by Paul Bardine, and Julie Christensen. Jeannie Curto, Char Darlington, and Deidra Swenson served as gift bearers. Eucharistic ministers were Joe Borgerding, Jim Darlington, and Megan Ceballos. Musicians included the Resurrection Choir, Pat Curto, Lori Ann Darlington, and Jimmy Darlington.

Arrangements by Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Service of Melrose

93 of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 28, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, April 1 at the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose. 

Ermalinda Mary Van Beck was born March 8, 1923, in rural Greenwald to Albert and Mary (Kolb) Van Beck. Erma went to grade school in Greenwald and graduated from Melrose High School. After school she helped her brothers on the farm and later worked at the Melrose Hospital. She married Leonard “Ervin” Walz on June 14, 1948, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. Together they raised their three children in Melrose. Erma did bookwork for Erv’s Skelly Station while Erv owned and operated it. After Erv’s death she worked in the cafeteria at the Melrose High School from 1981 until 1998. Erma enjoyed playing cards, bingo, dancing, her morning coffee and walking group, and her family, especially her grandchildren and great-granddaughter.

She was member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Catholic Order of Foresters, St. Elizabeth Society, Christian Mothers, and Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary. 

Survivors include her children, Gary (Mary Lou) of Melrose, Chuck (Sue) of Melrose, and Steven Walz of Melrose; brothers and sister, Adam Van Beck of Melrose, Katherine “Kitty” Gruber of Melrose, and Reuben (Arlene) Van Beck of Cold Spring; grandchildren, Erica Walz of Monticello, Adam Walz of Fargo, ND, and Andrew (Jill) Walz of Eagan; and great-grandchild, Liliana Erma Walz-Seviour. 

Erma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leonard “Erv” Walz on Aug. 20, 1979; and brother and sisters, Edwin Van Beck, Monica Ehlert, and Beata Brang. 

Serving as casket bearers were Erma’s grandchildren, Erica Walz, Adam Walz, Andrew Walz and Jill Walz. Serving as cross bearer was Erma’s great-granddaughter, Liliana Erma Walz-Serviour. Serving as scripture bearer was Jan Schwieters-Baltes. 

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

James B. “J.T.” Terwey, age 69 of Melrose, was called to Heaven quietly in his sleep Friday, April 1, 2016, with the comfort of his wife Joyce, at his side at the CentraCare Health Hospital in Melrose, Minn. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 5 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment was  in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.

 James Boniface Terwey was born July 26, 1946, in Millwood Township, Stearns County, Minn,  to Henry and Eleanore (Herkenhoff) Terwey. He served in the U.S. Army from 1965-1967 during the Vietnam War and he was medically discharged. J.T. and Joyce Klasen have been together since 1985 and were united in marriage on March 12, 2002. He worked as a beekeeper in Wisconsin, at Spaeth Distributing and Kraft in Melrose. In 1978 he started his dream job with Starry Construction (now known as Central Specialties in Alexandria) as a truck driver. J.T. retired after the accident in September of 2014, and over the past year he recovered from an accident but continued to battle with ongoing medical and cancer issues that ended in heart failure. 

J.T. was well known for his great smile, genuine fun-loving character, playing pranks, jack of all trade skills, and his way of just helping out anyone anywhere. He was selfless, patient, loving, gentle, joyful, down-to-earth and deeply loved.

 J.T. enjoyed hunting, ice fishing, camping, woodworking, 4-wheeling, splitting wood, and being a Mr. Fix It.

 He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose, lifetime member of Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 and the American Legion Unit 101, and a 50 year member of the Catholic United Financial.

 Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joyce Terwey of Melrose; brothers and sisters, Larry (Delores) Terwey of Sauk Centre, Donna (Vince) Haider of Elrosa, Phyllis (Jerry) Blenker of Melrose, LaVerne (Shirley) Terwey of Apple Valley, Art (Rita) Terwey of Melrose, and MaryAnn (Ray) Fuchs of Albany; 41 nieces and nephews; 49 great-nieces and nephews; and mother-in-law, Alice Klasen of Melrose.

 J.T. was preceded in death by his parents, Henry (1974) and Eleanore (1976) Terwey; brother and sister-in-law, Delbert “Del” (2002) and Donna (2014) Terwey; multiple infant nieces and nephews; and father-in-law, Richard Klasen (2011).

 In respect for J.T., dress comfortably in your blue jeans and tennis shoes.

Serving as casket bearers were Brian Fuchs, Jason Terwey, Ron Blenker, Keith Haider, Andy Zierden, and Luke Blonigen.  Cross bearer was Justin Funk and scripture bearer was Brandon Funk. Pall bearers were Brandon Funk, Justin Funk, Krista Klasen, Kurt Klasen, Denise Langer-Herman, Brian Fuchs, and Andy Zierden. Gift bearers were Erika Westermeyer, Nick LeClaire, Jamie Klasen, and Ryan Stroeing. Eucharistic Ministers were Mary Ann Fuchs, Jean Hemker, and Sheila Hellermann. Mass servers were Ron Butkowski and Wif Finken. Readers were Denise Langer-Herman and Shanna Raash. Eulogy was read by Sheila Hellermann. Honorary bearers were his nieces and nephews. Taps at the cemetery were by Shannon LeClaire and Mathew Doll. 

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

Joseph A. “Joe” Illies, age 65 of Menahga and formerly of Meire Grove, died unexpectedly of natural causes at his home in Menahga on Tuesday, April 5, 2016.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, April 8, 2016, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Marvin Enneking presiding. Inurnment took place in the parish cemetery.

Joseph Andrew Illies was born Sept. 6, 1950, in Melrose to Victor Clemens and Regina M. (Meyer) Illies. Joe graduated from Melrose High School. Following his education, he worked as a carpenter in the Twin Cities for many years. He later drove school bus in Menahga until his death.

Joe was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove, St. Joseph’s Men’s Society in Meire Grove, and Catholic United Financial.

Survivors include: sisters, Kathleen Meyer of Spring Hill and Marie (Mike) Pung of Cold Spring; brother, Dennis (Kathy) Illies of Meire Grove; and nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Regina Illies; brother, Harold Illies; sister, Jeanette Fuchs; and brothers-in-law, George Fuchs and Sylvester Meyer.

Serving as urn bearer was Dennis Illies. Cross bearer was Mary Stalboerger and scripture bearer was Jody Illies. Serving as gift bearers were Karl Pung, Sharon Meyer, and Mary Stalboerger.

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