Elmer F. Kettler, age 93 of Melrose, died peacefully on Thursday, June 2, 2016, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud.

 A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, June 6, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove. Rev. Vince Lieser officiated with Rev. Marv Enneking, Rev. Mitch Bechtold and Rev. Ken Thielman concelebrating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose. 

 Elmer Frank Kettler was born Dec. 6, 1922, in Melrose Township, Stearns County, to Frank and Agnes (Schmiesing) Kettler. On June 27, 1950, he married Erma Petermeier at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. After their marriage, Elmer continued farming the family farm with his wife, Erma for 30 years. They moved to Melrose when their son, Ron took over the family farm. During retirement, Elmer continued to help his son on the farm. He enjoyed ice fishing, bowling, playing cards, mowing the lawn and being around children, especially babies.

 Elmer was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and the Sts. Bernard and Elizabeth Council.

 Survivors include his wife, Erma Kettler of Melrose; children, Diane (Tom) O’Connor of St. Paul, Karen (Mark) Kettler-Tepley of St. Louis Park, daughter-in-law, Kathy Kettler of Melrose, Pam (Dan) Rolfes of St. Joseph and Barb Kettler of St. Joseph; ten grandchildren, Amy (Rob), Betsy (Jim), Megan (Matt), Michael (Rachel), Mara (Mike), Lola (Mike), Ben, Uriah, Jesse (Bryce) and Abby; ten great-grandchildren and Baby Quale due to arrive in September; brothers and sister, Francis (Marlene) Kettler of Maple Grove, Rosemary Swanson of Boise, Idaho, Don Kettler of St. Paul, Conrad (Pudge) Kettler of Sauk Centre; sisters-in-law, Julianna Kettler of Melrose, Rose Kettler of Cleveland, Ohio, and Pat Kettler of Chanhassen.

 Elmer was preceded in death by his son Ron Kettler on May 25, 2016; brothers, Leander, Herbert, George, Richard and Roman Kettler; and sisters-in-law, Jenny Kettler and Evelyn Kettler.

 Serving as casket bearers were Mark Tepley, Tom O’Connor, Dan Rolfes, Mike O’Connor, Uriah Rolfes, and Ben Kettler. Cross bearer was Mara Frieler and scripture bearer was Lola Quale. Serving as gift bearers were Abby Kettler, Jesse Sunsdahl, Betsy O’Connor and Megan Unga. Reader was Amy Stolpestad.

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

Scott R. Terwey, age 51 of Saint Cloud and formerly of Sauk Centre, passed away from a seizure on Sunday, June 12, 2016, in his apartment at River Crest Homes, St. Cloud. 

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 16, 2016, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Sauk Centre. Inurnment took place at Calvary Cemetery in Sauk Centre.

 Scott Roman Terwey was born May 23, 1965, in Melrose, the son of Dolores Margaret (Bushman) and Lawrence Herman Terwey. Scott grew up in Sauk Centre. In 1985, Scott suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of an automobile accident. This injury continued to cause health issues all throughout his life. He enjoyed partying with friends, fishing, riding his bicycle around town, hiking, being outdoors and sleeping under the stars. His favorite jobs included working as a welder and caring for the apartment complex grounds where he lived.  

 He is survived by his parents, Dolores and Larry Terwey of Sauk Centre; his sister and brother-in-law, Roxanne and Gary Plombon of St. Cloud; nephews, Max Plombon and Mitchell Plombon; aunt, uncles, cousins and friends.

Scott was preceded in death by stillborn twin sisters, Shelly and Sheila.

 Serving as casket bearers were Jason Terwey, Jeff Blenker, Kari Dvorak, Chantelle Terwey, Max Plombon and Mitchell Plombon. His godmother, Phyllis Blenker, served as cross bearer. Paula Capp and Tina Ludwig read the scriptures during the mass and Ben and Theresa Burg served as gift bearers. 

   Arrangements were handled by Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services, Sauk Centre.

     A gathering of family and friends was held Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at Wilson Park, 625 Riverside Dr. NE in St. Cloud with a Celebration of Life Service for Larry D. Ellingson, age 68, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, June 23,  at his home. Chaplain Nicole Reuter officiated.

  Larry was born Sept. 30, 1947, in Willmar, Minn.,  to Irvin and Ragnhild Ellingson. He married Cheryl Salk on May 1, 1992, in St. Cloud. Larry was an elementary teacher for 36 years in District 742 until his retirement in 2005. He was light-hearted, funny, quick-witted, a world traveler, and a master of trivia.  Larry was passionate about spending time with his family.  He especially liked being at the cabin fishing, kayaking, bird watching and card playing. Larry loved being involved with his grandkids in all of their activities. He will be dearly missed.

Larry is survived by his wife, Cheryl of St. Cloud;  his daughter, Whitney (Joseph) Fradette of Milaca; stepchildren, Andrea (Manuel) Garcia of Paris, France, Michael (Kari) Hiltner of Waconia, and Reed (Kirsti) Hiltner of Centerville; sisters, Sylvia (Thorleif) Sorlien and Gladys Schorn; sisters-in-law, Kay and Doreen Ellingson; grandchildren, Marcos and Emma Garcia, Owen, Emmett, Isla, Henrik and Kaija Hiltner; and the grand puppy, Pickles. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Roy, Marvin, and John.

Memorials are preferred and will be donated to Larry’s favorite charities.

Obituary and guest book available online at: www.williamsdingmann.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

     Gary Ripka, age 61, of New Munich, died Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at the St. Benedict’s Center in St. Cloud, Minn.,  following a long courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Following Gary’s wish, a Family Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose, Minnesota.   

Gary Conrad Ripka was born Feb.  2, 1955, in Melrose to Kenneth and Alice (Voss) Ripka.  He graduated from Melrose High School in 1974 and began working in the area and made his home in New Munich.  He was an avid Minnesota Viking and Minnesota Twins spectator as well as the Melrose Dutchmen.  Gary loved all animals and was always willing to take in a stray that needed a home.  Rolling Dice and playing Penny Annie were family games that he enjoyed.  He was a whiz at adding the dice as soon as they hit the table.  A favorite classic TV show that Gary watched was “The Andy Griffith Show.” Listening to classic rock and jazz brought him great joy.  Gary had a gentle soul and heart of gold.  He will truly be missed. 

 A special thank you to Dr. Elkadi and her staff at the Coborn Cancer Center for their love and compassion as they cared for Gary.

 Survivors include his mother, Alice Ripka of Avon; brothers and sisters, Robert (Dar) Ripka of Rice, Cheryl (Dan) Meyer of St. Cloud, Joan Terwey of St. Cloud, and Glen (Cristy) Ripka of Grey Eagle; many nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Ripka; brother, Thomas “Jake” Ripka; nephew, Elijah Ripka; and grandparents.     B25-1F

Donald B. 

Hinnenkamp, age 64 of Melrose, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 29, 2016, while doing fieldwork near his farm in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose following lunch.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church in Meire Grove. Parish prayers were held at 7 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home.

Donald Bernard 

Hinnenkamp was born Dec. 31, 1951, in Sauk Centre to Robert and Lorraine (Van Beck) Hinnenkamp. In June of 1980 he took over the family farm north of Melrose. He was united in marriage to Donna Jansen on Oct. 11, 1980, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Clarissa. Donald was a man of few words, devoted to his farm and family.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose.

 Survivors include his wife, Donna Jansen of Melrose; two children, Nicole Jansen-

Hinnenkamp of Beaufort, South Carolina, 

and Isaak (Katie) 

Hinnenkamp of Melrose; brother, Duane (Bernita) Hinnenkamp of Melrose; and brother-in-law, Gene (Sue) Lieser of Circle Pines.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Diane Lieser.

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

  Philomene Kleinfehn was called home July 6, 2016, only 45 days after her husband, Roman passed away. She was a resident of the Community Memorial Home in Osakis.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 13, at 11 a.m. at the St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union with Fr. Greg Paffel officiating. Visitation starts that same morning at 9:30 a.m. Interment is at St. Alexius Cemetery in West Union. 

Philomene Anna Hoppe was born on Sept. 27, 1923, in New Munich, to Herman and Anna (Schaefer) Hoppe. She grew up on a farm and attended country school. As a young woman Philomene did housekeeping work for area farm families for as little as a stick of gum and a dime per week. Later she was hired to do both housekeeping and dietary duties at the St. Cloud Hospital. 

She married Roman Kleinfehn in New Munich at the Immaculate Conception Church on June 19, 1951. They began a lifetime of working together and raising their family on farms in Todd and Douglas counties. They were married over 64 years and farmed over fifty of those years, retiring from dairy farming in 1987. She was a member of the St. Alexius Catholic Church and belonged to the St. Anne’s Christian Mothers, serving at one time as the treasurer. She belonged to the St. Theresa Mission group, and volunteered weekly at the Community Memorial Home.

Philomene was a wonderful farm wife and mother who enjoyed nature and grew beautiful gardens each summer. She spent hours canning the bounty she grew and was known to bake bread and the best apple pies around. Winter months found her working on one of many quilt projects for either the church or her family. She was a devoted mother, grandma and sister who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Noreen (Bob) Kleinfehn-Wald of Prior Lake, Harry Kleinfehn of Alexandria and Steve (Randee) Kleinfehn of West Union; 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brothers, Edmund Hoppe of Blaine and Alquin (Mary) Hoppe of Crest Hill, Illinois; many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband, Roman; a great-granddaughter, Abigail Zander; siblings, Helen Holdvogt, Veronica Nathe, Roman, Raymond, Virgil and Aloys Hoppe.

Arrangements were handled by the Roy-Hetland Funeral Home, Osakis.                      B28-1B

Tom L. Schwieters, age 67 of Melrose, died unexpectedly on Friday, August 12, 2016, at his home, after a ten year battle with Parkinson’s disease.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 17, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating and Rev. Mitchell Bechtold and Rev. Daniel Ohmann concelebrating. Private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. Parish prayers will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Thomas Leo Schwieters was born February 18, 1949 in Melrose, Minnesota to Herbert and Aurelia (Stalboerger) Schwieters. He joined the Army National Guard Reserves. On May 30, 1970 he married Barbara Schoenberg at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill. Tom was the owner and operator of South Town Builders in Melrose for over 40 years. He enjoyed Nascar and sporting events. Tom’s passion was being outdoors – from chasing elk in Wyoming to turkey hunting in South Dakota. He loved it all. Tom loved spending time with his family, most of all his 9 grandchildren. 

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose, Knights of Columbus Council 1633, and the American Legion Post 101.

Survivors include his wife, Barb Schwieters of Melrose; children, Lynn (Jim) Thelen of Centerville: Peter (Tina) Schwieters of Cedar; Paul (Leah) Schwieters of Ramsey; and Patrick (Amy) Schwieters of White Bear Lake; grandchildren, Max and Charlie Thelen, Gabe and Nora Schwieters; Bobbi Jo, Torii and Amelia Schwieters; and Will and Frank Schwieters; brothers and sisters, Dick (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; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Aurelia Schwieters; and brothers, Harvey and Phillip Schwieters.

Serving as urn bearers will be Bobbi Jo Schwieters and Max Thelen. Cross bearer will be Gabe Schwieters and scripture bearer will be Will Schwieters. Flag bearer will be Torii Schwieters. Gift bearers will be Charlie Thelen and Nora, Amelia and Frank Schwieters. Readers will be Mary Schwieters and Peg Winkelmann. Eucharistic Ministers will be Adam Meyer, Linda Van Beck, and Mary Spanier. The eulogy will be read by Mike and Reed Hiltner. 

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

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

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Frances C. Borgerding, age 91 of Freeport, passed away peacefully on Aug. 9, 2016 at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre, Minn. 

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Aug. 12 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery. 

Visitation was from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church. The Goldenaires Senior Citizens and
Christian Mothers prayed at 9 a.m. Friday at the church.

Frances Catherine Kometscher was born Sept. 4, 1924 in Indianola, Neb., to Henry and Catherine (Kuppenbender) Kometscher.  She was united in marriage to Alphonse Borgerding on Aug. 25, 1948 in Indianola, Neb.  The couple came back to the family dairy farm west of Freeport and farmed until 1972. They moved into Freeport shortly after their retirement. For the past three years, Frances resided at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre. 

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, Christian Mothers, and the Goldenaires Senior Citizens.  Frances enjoyed quilting and embroidery, playing cards, putting together jigsaw puzzles, and never missed going to play bingo.  In her younger years, she enjoyed gardening and raising chickens.  

Survivors include her children, Clarence (Marilyn) Borgerding of Freeport; Patricia (Roger) Messer of Sauk Centre; Jerome (Esther) Borgerding of Sauk Centre; Rita (Gerald) Wiechmann of Freeport; Esther Borgerding of Clearwater; and Linda (Clair) Rogers of St. Joseph; 22 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

 Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Alphonse Borgerding on July 15, 1986; daughter, Dorothy Gertken; son, Linus Borgerding; grandchildren, Kevin Gertken and Joshua Bueckers; brothers, Leo, August, Herman, Martin, Stephen and Lawrence Kometscher; and sisters, Elizabeth Kometscher, Margaret Kometscher, Mary Walz, Catherine Wolf and Anna Brahler.

 Serving as casket bearers was Tom Messer, Mike Borgerding, Dave Borgerding, Jason Borgerding, Dustin Bueckers, Ryan Bueckers, Luke Kociemba, Darin Kociemba and Mike Kociemba. Cross bearer was Karla Massmann and scripture bearer will be Sarah Christian. Gift bearers were Kelly Backes, Jennifer Hector and Jodi Kociemba. 

 The family would like to thank the staff and doctors who gave Frances such good care at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

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age 84 of Freeport, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after a short battle with pancreatic cancer on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, at her home in Freeport, Minn.

 A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, Aug. 23, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Alice Marie Loesch was born Jan. 3, 1932, in Luxemburg Township, Stearns County, Minn.,  to William and Veronica (Pauly) Loesch. She was united in marriage to LaVern Fuechtmann on Sept.  29, 1953, in Lake Henry, Minn. After raising her four children, Alice worked for Charlie’s Café for 29 years.  She retired in 2008 but continued to make pie crusts for a few more years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, Christian Mothers, and the Goldenaires Senior Citizens. Alice enjoyed embroidering, cooking and baking, playing cards, and watching the Minnesota Twins. 

Survivors include her children, Diane 

Hellermann and her husband, Mark of Melrose, Judy Beuning and her husband, Michael of Melrose, Darlene 

McCorvey and her husband, Patrick of Pearland, Texas, and Gene Fuechtmann of Freeport; nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren with one on the way; brothers, Clarence Loesch of St. Cloud and Richard Loesch of Paynesville; and sisters, Evelyn Ramler of St. Cloud and Lucille
Marthaler of Cold Spring. 

Alice was preceded in death by her husband, LaVern Fuechtmann on March 16, 2001; parents; and brothers, Arnold Loesch, Elmer Loesch, and Ervin Loesch. 

Serving as casket bearers were Matthew Hellermann, Eric 

Beuning, Patrick 

McCorvey, Jr., Ryan McCorvey, Cody 

Fuechtmann, and Kyle Fuechtmann.  Cross bearer was Emily Moorman and scripture bearer was Kari Hiltner. The eulogy was  read by Amy Schaefer. 

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

     Esther R. Beuning, age 89 of St. Rosa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, Aug. 15, 2016 at St. Benedicts Senior Community in St. Cloud, Minn.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 19 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa with Rev. Vigil Petermeier, OSC officiating and Rev. Daniel Walz concelebrating. Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday and from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Friday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. Parish prayers were held at 7 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home.

Esther Rose Korte was born November 1, 1926 in St. Rosa, Minn. to Bernard and Adelheid (Klasen) Korte. After the death of her parents in 1931 and 1932 respectively, she and her siblings were raised by their maternal grandparents, John and Anna 

(Bueckers) Klasen.

She was united in marriage to Alphonse “Al” Beuning on June 18, 1946 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in St. Rosa. The couple farmed near St. Rosa until 1996. She worked as a nurse’s assistant at the Pine Villa Nursing Home for 15 years and was a volunteer at St. Mary’s School in Melrose for many years. Esther was a member of the St. Rose Christian Mothers, St. Monica Mission Society and St. Rose Church Choir.  Esther enjoyed dancing, playing cards, and spending time with her family.

Survivors include her children, Joe Beuning and his wife, Bev of New Richmond, Wisconsin,
Urban Beuning and his wife, Arlene of St. Rosa, Bernie Beuning and his wife, Linda of St. Cloud, Ada Daniel and her husband, Gerry of Golden Valley, Michael Beuning and his wife, Judy of St. Rosa, Geralyn Beuning of Eden Prairie, Mary Niehaus and her husband, Butch of Melrose, Paul Beuning and his wife, Mary of St. Rosa, Earl Beuning of Mayer, and Sara Toenies and her husband, Steve of Melrose; 29 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren with two more on the way; sister, Caroline Bielejeski of Holdingford and sister-in-law, Arlene Beuning of Tacoma, WA.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Al Beuning on November 13, 2001; parents; daughter, Georgianna Beuning in 1954; an infant daughter in 1960; brothers, Lawrence, Urban and Julius; sisters, Alice Kerfeld and Rica Korte; brothers-in-law, Hubert Bielejeski, Virgil Kerfeld, Ralph Beuning, Al Wilhelm; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Korte, Eileen Korte, Erma Wilhelm, and Catherine Beuning; and also by her extended Klasen family, Ben, Ann, Lawrence, 

Bertha, Hubert, Rose Hoppe, Tony, Amanda, Catherine, and Sophie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

    Dale U. Steinemann, age 47 of New Munich, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Aug. 22, 2016, near Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 26 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Dan Walz officiating. Interment was at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Dale Urban Steinemann was born Jan. 27, 1969, in Melrose to Joseph and Agnes (Koopmeiners) Steinemann.  He attended Melrose High School and began working at Jennie-O Foods in Melrose after school. Dale enjoyed rebuilding cars, boating zand skiing. He was a pack rat and treasure hunter; bringing home anything and everything that could be reused. Dale will be greatly missed by many. He loved spending time with his family, especially his children.

Survivors include his children, Derek Adkins of Onamia, Jaime Steinemann of Waite Park, Brittany Furnstahl of Waite Park, Kayla Furnstahl of New Munich, Noah Molitor of Waite Park, and Anthony Sebastian of Waite Park; brothers and sisters, Larry (Pam) Steinemann of Sauk Centre, Lorraine Emter of Sauk Rapids, Joe Jr. (Lori) Steinemann of Sauk Rapids, Linda (Dan) Lieser of Alexandria, John (Marlene) Steinemann of Akron, Ohio, Leonard Steinemann of Akron, Ohio, Janice (Jim) Lokken of Alexandria, Esther (Jerry) Borgerding of Sauk Centre, Norbert (Marilyn) Steinemann of Little Falls, Edwin (Sandy) Steinemann of Paynesville, James (Julie) Steinemann of Melrose, and Lisa (Pat) Rolfes of Melrose; and many nieces and nephews.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Agnes Steinemann.

Serving as casket bearers were Norb Steinemann, Jim Steinemann, Ed Steinemann, Kris Petermeier, Tyrone Langbehn  and Kevin Petermeier. Cross bearer was Matt Steinemann and scripture bearer was Kayla Furnstahl.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

  Betty A. Althaus, age 66 of Melrose, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2016, at her home in Melrose.

 A gathering of family and friends will be held at a later date.

Betty Ann Iverson was born Jan. 16, 1950, in Redwood Falls, Minn., to Clair and Lorraine (Young) Iverson. She attended Montevideo High School in Montevideo. She was united in marriage to Vernon Althaus on Sept. 3, 1978, in Milbank, S.D. Betty owned and operated her own day care facility that she ran from her house. She also worked at Walmart until her retirement in 2014. Betty enjoyed watching birds and was a collector of bird houses. She loved being outside doing yardwork and tending to her flower garden, and she especially loved her motorcycle rides with Vern.

Survivors include her husband, Vernon Althaus of Melrose; four sons, Kyle (Janice) Althaus of Avon, Brad (Christine) Althaus of Silver Bay, Roger (Sommer) Althaus of Melrose, and Nathaniel (Sue) Althaus of Osakis; 12 grandchildren; brother-in-law, Leon Althaus of Melrose; sister-in-law, Julie Iverson of Benson; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Ronnie, Scott, and Michael Iverson.

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

  Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, Aug.  30, 2016,  at Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley for Joan Riley, age 84, of Eden Valley, who passed away on Aug. 24 at Hilltop Health Care Center in Watkins. Burial was in Assumption Catholic Cemetery in Eden Valley.

   Johanna “Joan” Alvina Riley was born to Ben and Ann (Kersting)
Holdvogt on Dec. 26, 1931, at their farm in New Munich. She attended school in Melrose, graduating in 1950. Joan married Valentine Riley on Sept. 20, 1952, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose.  The couple moved to Eden Valley, where they raised five children; Cindy, Mike, Jan, Sue, and Kim. 

She was a member of Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley, and as a woman of strong faith she was active in the church as a religion teacher. Joan was also a volunteer for 25 years for the American Red Cross. Joan loved reading, camping with her family, crocheting all kinds of things to give away, and was lovingly known by her grandkids as “Kitty Grandma”. Her kind heart, warm smile and generous spirit will be missed.

Joan is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Val; her children, Cindy (John) Froehling of Hinckley, Mike (Sue) Riley of Monticello, Jan (Jerry) Noll of St. Martin, Sue (Larry) McCoy of
Darwin, Kim (Kevon) Gabrelcik of Eden Valley; 13 grandchildren, Nate (Emma) Froehling, Laura (Martin) Castro, Nick Froehling, Kristin Riley, Joe
(Sophia) Riley, Missie (Chet) Haag, Mindy (Matt)
Jungbauer, Miranda
(Jason) Neuwirth, Stephanie Noll, Jamie (Jon-Paul) VanLoenhout, Riley
(Fiance Sara) McCoy, Kara Kammermeier, Kyle Gabrelcik; 19 great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Geraldine “Gerry” Stalberger, Mary Jane “Mayme” Schulzetenberg, and Margie Kennedy.

Obituary and guestbook available online at: www.williamsdingmann.com.

Delbert J. “Del” Petermeier, age 89 of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, Sept. 2, 2016, at his home in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating and Rev. Virgil Petermeier, osc, concelebrating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose with military honors by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.

Delbert Joseph Petermeier was born March 11, 1927, in Melrose, to Henry and Elizabeth (Zirbes) Petermeier. Del served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. On Aug. 18, 1954, he married Dolores Noll at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. Del worked in the maintenance department at Kraft Foods for 38 years, retiring in 1989.   

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and the American Legion Post 101. Del truly enjoyed his profession and spent 54 years as a refrigeration service engineer. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed shooting the breeze and sharing wonderful stories with family and friends. Del thought the world of his family, especially his beloved wife, Dolores. He will be dearly missed.

   Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Dolores Petermeier of Melrose; children, Tim (Barb) Petermeier of Melrose, Dan (Nancy) Petermeier of Prior Lake, Jay (Connie) 

Petermeier of Melrose and Jane (Tim) Pavlish of Fargo, N.D.; four grandchildren, Travis, Michelle (Josh) Traut, Kelly (fiancé, Libby) and Ryan (fiancé, Becky); five great-grandchildren, Cade, Kanon, Calvin, Wyatt and Everett; brothers, Bill
Petermeier of Elk River, Tony Petermeier of Bloomington and Tom (Pat) Petermeier of Alexandria; and sisters,
Jeanette Barth of Melrose, JoAnne (John) Welle of Paynesville and Betty Lafriener of New Hope.

Del was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters, George Petermeier, Richard Petermeier,
Lucille Petermeier,
Marie Meyer, Joe
Petermeier, Stephen Petermeier, Lyola Vic, Carmella Worms and Eunice Casey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

Lorraine A. Kraker, age 86 of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, Sept. 2, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Vince Lieser officiating and Rev. Marvin Enneking and Rev. Ken Thielman concelebrating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Lorraine Agnes Bussmann was born on Jan. 23, 1930, in Melrose, to Bernard and Elizabeth (Wenker) Bussmann. Lorraine was raised on a farm north of Melrose. She attended country school and Melrose High School, graduating in 1948. After graduation, Lorraine worked for the Melrose Beacon at which time she met the love of her life, John “Jack” Kraker. Lorraine and Jack were married on Jan. 11, 1950, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Together they raised 13 children which include three sets of twins. Lorraine worked with the family businesses at Jack’s Lunch and Kraker Insurance and Real Estate. 

Many memories were made raising a family this size. Christmas in the Kraker household was one of the most memorable holidays. Great summer memories were created at the family cabin on Big Birch Lake with family gatherings, barbecues, swimming, boating and bonfires. Lorraine’s greatest love was her family. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Lorraine enjoyed baking cookies, crocheting, gardening, walking, biking, dancing, playing cards, watching the Twins baseball games and bird watching. Lorraine was always a kind, giving and patient wife, mother and grandmother. She had an enormous heart and loved and supported her family unconditionally.

 Lorraine was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Christian Mothers and Schanhaar-Otte VFW Post 7050 Auxiliary. Lorraine was always very gracious of her time and talents by helping out with church funeral dinners and fundraisers. Lorraine’s strong faith and dedication to the Catholic Church was always the foundation of her life. She had instilled these values in her children and in everything she did.

Survivors include her children, John (Maggie) Kraker of Alexandria, Mary (Richard) Louden Horn of Melrose, Mike (Etta) Kraker of Melrose, Bob Kraker of St. Paul, Jim (Jane) Kraker of Grey Eagle, Don Kraker (friend, Tami Woolridge) of Melrose, Jean 

Anderson of Grey Eagle, Joan (Doug) Baer of Brooklyn Center, Chuck (Monika) Kraker of Melrose, Pam Kraker (friend, Todd Duemke) of Grey Eagle, Pat Kraker of Waite Park and Bill (Kalli) Kraker of Alexandria; 31 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Celia (Donovan) Hansen of Sauk Centre, Doris Peterson of Sauk Centre, Bernard  (Tillie) Bussmann of Melrose, Edward (Darlene) Bussmann of Melrose and Betty (Vic) Goebel of Freeport.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Kraker on Jan. 13, 2008; parents; daughter, Anne Kraker on July 21, 1972; grandson, Cassidy Kraker; great-grandson, Dominic Kraker; sisters, Bernice Theiler, Anna Mae Morrison and Rita Poepping; and sons-in-law, Mike Louden and Bill Anderson.

Serving as casket bearers were her sons, John Jr., Bob, Jim, Don, Chuck, Pat and Bill. Cross bearer was Jean Anderson and scripture bearer was Mike Kraker. Honorary bearers were Lorraine’s grandchildren.

A special thank you to the staff at CentraCare Health Nursing Home for their wonderful care and support of our mother.

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

76 of Melrose, died peacefully on Friday, Sept. 23, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Sauk Centre.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Interment will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery following the service.

 Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport. Christian Mothers will pray a rosary at 6 p.m. followed by parish prayers at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening.

 Clara Katherine Brake was born March 24, 1940, in Ward Springs to Frank and Caroline (Feldewerd) Brake. On May 11, 1960, she married Herman Rahn in Ward Springs. The couple farmed near Ward Springs for 25 years before moving to Meire Grove and then to Melrose. Clara was a nursing assistant at Pine Villa for about ten years. She enjoyed crocheting, quilting and gardening.

 Clara was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and Christian Mothers in Ward Springs.

 Survivors include herchildren, Don (Danelle) Rahn of Kensington, Betty (Trinidad) Ambriz-Morelos of Melrose, Marvin (Vicky) Rahn of Browerville and Richard (Yvonne) Rahn of Melrose; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sisters, Laura (Ray) Zenzen of Melrose, Eleanor (Michael) Froelich of Albany and Sr. Helen Brake, OSF, of Little Falls; and sisters-in-law, Helen Brake of Ward Springs and Barb Brake of Minneapolis.

 Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Herman on April 28, 1994; her parents, Frank and Caroline; brothers and sisters, Marie (August) Schmidt, Irene (Louis) Parish, Bernard Brake, Henry Brake, John Brake and infant, Lawrence.

 Serving as casket bearers will be Jeffrey Rahn, Josh Rahn, Bob Bearson, Justin Ettel, Larry Brake and Kurt Zenzen. Cross bearers will be Brian Rahn and Richard Jr. Rahn. Scripture bearer will be Maryann Monroe.

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

Viola R. “Vi” Berns, age 106 of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Marvin Ennenking officiating and Rev. Ken Thielman concelebrating. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery following the service.

 Viola Rose Winter was born April 28, 1910, in Melrose to Mathias and Helen (Ostendorf) Winter. She married Henry Berns on Nov. 11, 1930, at St. Boniface Church in Melrose. Vi enjoyed cooking, baking and music. She was a piano teacher for many years in Melrose and played organ at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. 

Vi was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the American Legion Auxiliary.

 Survivors include her grandsons, Paul Nett of Albany, Mick Nett of Avon and David (Gail) Nett of Sartell; and great-grandchildren, Marcus and Brooke Nett.

 Vi was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Berns on Oct. 23, 1982; parents; daughter, Sharon Nett; brothers, Ernest, Warren and Bernard Winter; and sister, Virginia Fluegel.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

 Marie M. Primus, age 91 of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 26, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Nursing Home in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 30, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating and Rev. Vincent Lieser and Rev. Ken Thielman concelebrating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Marie Margareth Hinnenkamp was born June 29, 1925, in Melrose, to Henry and Agnes (Pohlman) Hinnenkamp. She was united in marriage to Albert Primus on June 2, 1948, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Melrose. The couple farmed southwest of Melrose and retired in 1991. Marie was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose and volunteered there for many years. She took care of the flowers at church, acted as a greeter and served for many funerals. Marie was also a member of the Christian Mothers and Saints Bernard and Elizabeth Council.

Marie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, rug braiding and doing miscellaneous crafts.

Survivors include her children, Anthony (Lynette) Primus of Alexandria, Agnes Bauer of Elrosa, Ray (Rosemary) Primus of Melrose, Monica (Ron) Magnuson of Seaside, Ore., Martin (Georgiann) Primus of Sauk Centre, Francis (Judy) Primus of Melrose, Theresa Madel of Murphysboro, Ill., Ruth (John) Eliason of Greenfield and Paul (Amy) Primus of Melrose; 37 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Primus on Aug. 16, 2002; parents, Henry and Agnes; grandchildren, Brian Primus and Christina Madel; brothers and sisters, Leo Hinnenkamp, Elsie Hellermann, Norbert Hinnenkamp, Boniface Hinnenkamp and Loretta Mehr; and sons-in-law, Joe Madel and David Bauer.

Serving as casket bearers were Chad Bauer, Chad Primus, Josh Primus, Charlie Madel, Andrew Primus, Isaiah Primus, Ian Eliason and Nathan Primus. Cross bearer was Stacie Harvala and scripture bearer was Shanna Primus. Petitions were read by Eli Harvala. Serving as Eucharistic Ministers were Amanda Primus, Theresa Madel and Martin and Georgiann Primus.

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

Jeanne Clarise (Bitz) Wilber, age 57 of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016, at the CentraCare Health Hospital in Melrose.

Jeanne was born Dec. 29, 1958, in Sauk Centre, to Milton and Lorene (Berscheid) Bitz.Jeanne was passionate about family. When she wasn’t taking photos of her grandchildren, she likely could be found giving them cuddles, hugs, kisses or spoiling them with whatever new toy she could find. Jeanne was awed by the beauty in nature and shared photos with both friends and family. She also enjoyed sharing her talents by volunteering for the local history museum and their Facebook page.

Survivors include her son, Shalon (Kate) Wilber of Fargo, N.D.; grandchildren, Jay and Adelane (Laney) Wilber; brothers and sisters, Carole Austing (Don Weissman), Darlene (Albin) Moritz, David (Lorraine) Bitz, Stephen (Lavonne) Bitz, Kevin (Nancy) Bitz, and Mary Kay Rhode; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents; Lorene and Milton Bitz, brother-in- law; Erv Austing, and nephew; Spencer Milton Austing.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle with Rev. Ronald Dockendorf officiating.

Private Inurnment was in St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Ward Springs.

Serving as urn bearer were Shalon Wilber. Cross bearer was Ryan Bitz and scripture bearer was Stacey Austing-Jacobson. Honorary bearers were Jay Wilber and Laney Wilber.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. 

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.  B-40-1B

helen, age 83 of Freeport, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016, at the Assumption Nursing Home in Cold Spring.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, Oct. 4, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Dan Walz officiating. Entombment followed in the parish cemetery.

Lucille Irma Overman was born Oct. 14, 1932, in Oak Township, Stearns County, to John and Adella (Rademacher) Overman. She was united in marriage to Walter “Pinky” Thelen on Sept. 21, 1953, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. The couple farmed north of Freeport for 25 years where she was a homemaker and raised her family. She worked at the Pine Villa Care Center in Melrose as a housekeeper for several years.

 Lou enjoyed quilting, embroidering, sewing, gardening and baking. She made the best chocolate chip and Christmas cut out cookies. She was an avid fan of the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and enjoyed traveling, especially to warmer climates during the winter months. Lou was a very caring and compassionate person. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be greatly missed. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Christian Mothers.

 Survivors include her children, Karen (Dale) Weisbrich of Cold Spring, Gary (Sharon) Thelen of Freeport, Judy (Dan) Dirkes of Albany, Peg (Gary) Boeckermann of Freeport and Steve (Amy) Thelen of Avon; ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one great-grandchild on the way; sisters and brother, Lorraine Rieland of St. Cloud, Millie (Romie) Nienaber of Sauk Centre and Tom (Ginny) Overman of Florida; brother-in-law, Ben Reuter of Melrose; and sisters-in-law, Margaret Overman of Freeport and Jeanne Stang of Pierz.

Lou was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Walter “Pinky” Thelen on Jan. 31, 2015; brother, John “Sonny” Overman; sister, Rosie Reuter; and brothers-in-law, Marty Stang and Walter “Wally” Rieland.

 Serving as casket bearers were Scott Dirkes, Jeff Dirkes, Hunter Thelen, Maria Boeckermann, Greg Thelen and Chris Weisbrich. Cross bearer was Sommer Thelen and scripture bearer was Megan Borgerding. Gift bearers were Sara Christianson and Jennifer Gosch. Readers were Greg Thelen and Sommer Thelen.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart School in Freeport.

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