Laune “June” Studenski, age 75, of Popple Creek, died Nov. 15, 2019, at St Cloud Hospital. A funeral service will take place at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Popple Creek with the Rev. Dr. Tim Rehwaldt officiating at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19. Visitation will be from 9-11:30 a.m. Tuesday prior to funeral service at St John’s fellowship hall in Popple Creek. Service with Dignity provided by Foley Funeral Home.

Laune June Studenski was born May 27, 1944, in St Cloud, to John and Blanche (Hubbard) Skuza. She was united in marriage to Virgil Studenski July 13, 1963. June lived her entire life on the farm her grandfather, then father lived and Virgil took over farming when they married. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She worked at DeZurik in cost accounting and then inventory control. After DeZurik, she worked for Gorecki Manufacturing as material manager, then project manager for medical/surgical division (3M). Finally, she worked for KOMO Machine Inc. as master scheduler. June was a life member of St John’s Lutheran Church having been baptized, confirmed and married in the church.

She is survived by her sons Dennis (Tammy), Popple Creek; Brad (Sarah), Sauk Rapids; Brian (Elizabeth), Richfield; grandchildren Kalina (Tyler) Spiczka, Popple Creek, Caleb (Courtney) Foley, Shayna (Dylan) Magnuson, Sartell, and Creed, Popple Creek, Emelia Studenski, Aryssa, Mesa and Stella Zacher, Sauk Rapids; great-grandchildren Alaina, Olivia, Haley Studenski, Foley, Henley Spiczka, Popple Creek; sister-in-law, Nancy Skuza and one nephew Robbie (Heidi) Skuza, Princeton.

She was preceded in death by her husband Virgil, son Douglas, brother Gene Skuza and sister Arlone Skuza.      

 

Mass of Christian Burial was 11 a.m. Nov. 18 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Adrian H. Ackerman, 84, of Sauk Rapids, who passed away Nov. 14, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. The Rev. Thomas Becker officiated and a later, private burial will be at Annunciation Parish Cemetery in Mayhew Lake. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Nov. 17 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids and also one hour prior to services at the church Monday morning. Following services, in accordance with Adrian’s wishes, his body is being donated to the Anatomy Bequest Program at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. Arrangements are entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

Adrian Harold Ackerman was born Feb. 20, 1935, in Foley to Bartholomew and Katherine (Ditter) Ackerman. His formal education started in a one room schoolhouse located at the end of the gravel road from the farm, graduated from Sauk Rapids High School in 1953, followed by two years of agriculture school at the University of Minnesota. Adrian then served his country from 1955-61 enlisting with the United States Navy. He married Katherine Panek Sept. 5, 1960, at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Holdingford. He then took over his parents’ farm which they started in 1944. Adrian always believed in helping others as demonstrated by being a member of Knights of Columbus for over 50 years, teaching CCD classes for over 30 years, being a 4-H leader and member of Dairy Herd Improvement Association and American Dairy Association. He also served on the board of the Fruitville Telephone Company in Mayhew Lake. Then, after a very prosperous life, Adrian retired in 2000, moved into Sauk Rapids with his blessed bride Katie and passed the family farm onto the next generation – his sons Peter (Mona) and Kevin (Lisa). Adrian was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake. He was a devoted family man of faith who was immensely proud of his 12 children and always encouraged them to do their best. He enjoyed playing cards, walking, sports and truly cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Adrian lived with Parkinson’s Disease for over 30 years, but he always remained positive.

Survivors include his loving wife Katherine of Sauk Rapids; children, Joe (Janet) of Sauk Rapids, Paul (Brenda) of Clear Lake, Peter (Mona) of Sauk Rapids, Margaret. of south St. Paul, Leon (Sue) of Arcadia, Wis., Ann (Steve) Ackerman-Segner of Big Lake, Kevin (Lisa) of Sauk Rapids, Chuck (Linda) of Rice, Mitch (Tasha) of Sauk Rapids, Jason (Mary) of Sartell, David (Shannon) of Pequot Lakes, and Nate (Erica) of Rice; brother, Ken (Mary) of Fridley; 37 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and sister in law, Phyllis of St. Cloud. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters and brothers, Marion Bauer, Gilbert, Evelyn Olson, Eleanor McCoy and Duane.

Memorials are preferred to the Poor Clares Monastery.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff at Good Shepherd Community for the loving and exceptional care that was given to Adrian.
Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online at http:// www.williamsdingmann.com

Our Country is in Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.

 

Donna M. (Secord) Hanten, age 83, passed away unexpectedly after a short illness Nov. 5 with her husband of 63 years and family by her side. She is survived by her husband, George; children, Mike (Judy) Hanten, Jodie (Joe) Frenz and Steve (Lori) Hanten; grandchildren, Ally (Scott) Hanten Ebert, Jess (Baylor) Radtke, Kelsey (Lee) Hanten Vandal, Lee Hanten, Jenny (Tim) Wilson and John Hanten; great grandchildren; Reid, Reece Ebert, Anzl, Aven Radtke and Caysen Vandal; siblings, Alden Secord, Judy Leyk, and Gene Secord Jr. Preceded in death by her father, Gene Secord; mother, Betty Secord and sister, Phyllis (Secord) Winter. Donna is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and as a wonderful grandmother and great grandmother. She will be missed by many treasured friends. Donna was a talented seamstress and enjoyed her flower garden, cooking, traveling with friends and family, and volunteering in her community. She was an avid blackjack player and lover of cats. A visitation will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15 with Mass at 11 a.m. at Church of St. Timothy, 707 89th Ave. N.E. Blaine, MN 55434. Memorials preferred to American Cancer Society.         

 

Valerie R. Scherbing, age 78, of Foley, passed away Nov. 3, 2019, at The Gardens at Foley assisted living.  Mass of Christian Burial was 11:30 a.m. Nov. 6 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Duelm. The Rev. Michael Wolfbauer will officiate and burial will take place in the parish cemetery, Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Valerie Rose Scherbing was born July 23, 1941, in Foley to Ellen Victor. She graduated from Foley High School in 1959. She married Richard Scherbing Oct. 7, 1971, at St. John’s Catholic Church. Valerie lived and raised her family near Duelm. She worked for an insurance adjuster and later in data entry. After retirement she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and baking cookies with them. She was a lifetime member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church.  The family would like to thank the staff at The Gardens at Foley and St. Croix Hospice for all their care and compassion.

She is survived by her daughter and sons: Mary Plante (Joe Andria), St. Cloud; Jim (Stephanie), Sauk Rapids; Steve (Christine), Foley; Dave (Becky), Foley and brothers: Richard Mazacek, Minneapolis; Gary Mazacek, Little Falls; Mark (Cathy) Mazacek, Sauk Rapids and sister-in-laws, Joan Mazacek, Foley and Danielle Mazacek of Sauk Rapids.  She is also survived by her nine  grandchildren: Jake, Mike, and Chris Plante, Hunter Scherbing, Alex Wager, Tailor, Brianna, Emma, and Andrew Scherbing. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ellen and husband, Richard, Nov 29, 1999, and brothers, Fred and Mike Mazacek.          

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Arnold Wojciechowski died peacefully at his home Oct. 30, 2019, at the age of 90. Mass of Christian Burial was 11 a.m. Nov. 2 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Foreston. The Rev. James Remmerswaal officiated and burial took place in the parish cemetery. Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Foley Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church Saturday. There was a prayer service at 7 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Arnold Richard Wojciechowski was born June 14, 1929, in Oak Park to Tony and Helen (Strzyweski) Wojciechowski. He married Sarah Curley Aug. 19, 1950, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Foley. Arnold was a farmer, self-employed painter and worked for Franklin Manufacturing for 42 years. Arnold and Sarah had a daughter and six sons when they moved to a farm in Foreston. They then had two more sons and two more daughters. Arnold was an amazing man who devoted his life to his wife and 11 children. He enjoyed bonfires, baseball, babies and hunting. He took great joy in his 31 grandchildren and 46 great grandchildren. He was a life member of St. Louis Catholic Church where he attended Adoration for 20 years.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Sarah, Foley and children: Cheryl Tischbirek, Clear Lake; Tom (Joanne), Foreston; Rod, Thailand; Kevin (Chris), Wahkon; Craig (Eileen), Foley; Mark, Foley; Daniel, Hill City; Gary, Minneapolis; Susan, Minneapolis and Amy (Darl) of Foreston. He was preceded in death by his son, Tony, age 6 and son-in-law, George Tischbirek and granddaughter, Nicole Wojciechowski and three brothers and three sisters.          

 

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Dixville for Glenn D. Melby, age 63, who passed away Oct. 27, 2019, at his home. The Rev. David Franzmeier will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Monday at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and one hour prior to the services Tuesday at the church in Dixville.
Glenn was born Jan. 25, 1956, in St. Cloud to George and Hazel (Busse) Melby. He grew up in the Rice area on the family farm and moved to Foley in 1992. Glenn was a ready mix truck driver for Knife River for over 20 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters.

He will be missed by his children, Ryan (Stacy) Melby, of Foreston, Ashley (Chris) Hettver, of De Graff, and Travis (Emily Christen) Melby, of Foreston; siblings, Janis Kirsch of Fargo, N.D. and Darrell (Sharen) Melby, of Royalton; and grandchildren, Ellie, Keira, Mackenzie, and Zoey. Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, George and Hazel Melby.
Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online http://www.williamsdingmann.com.          

Roger Kranz, age 80, of Hillman. passed away Oct. 14, 2019, at his home. Funeral services celebrating the life of Roger were 11 a.m. Oct. 21 at the Foley Funeral Home. The Rev. Greg Tomhave officiated.  Visitation was from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home Monday. Burial took place in Lone Pine Cemetery, Morrill Township, Morrison County. There was a pot-luck at the Grub and Pub following the burial. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Roger Kranz was born Sept. 26, 1939, in Royalton to Orey and Luella (Keehr) Kranz. He married Kathleen Baldwin Jan. 30, 1965, in Wyoming, Minnesota.  Roger loved farming and owned and operated, Kranz Brothers Trucking and Excavating with his brother, Roy for 14 years. He was a good cook and especially enjoyed barbecues with the family. He created an area on his land called, “Welcome to Grandpa’s Farm” where he enjoyed entertaining. Roger liked hunting, fishing and the outdoors. He was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Ramey where he was an elder, usher and past president of the congregation.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kathy, Hillman and children: Scott (Cindy), Little Falls; Robin (Steven) Renee’, St. Cloud; Suzanne (Benno) Virnig, Hillman; Julie (Jerry) Struffert, Hillman; 19 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and brother Ronnie (Mary Anna), Royalton and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Shawn in 2001 and brothers; Roy and Bob as well as sisters; Judy Holewa, Bernell Schmolke and brother-in-law, Don Schmolke.         

Margaret Stellmach, age 92 of Foley, passed away Oct. 6, 2019, at the Foley Nursing Center.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 15, at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, Brennyville. Visitation was from 9-11 a.m. at the church Tuesday. The Rev. Matthew Langager will officiate and burial will take place in the parish cemetery. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Margaret Mary Stellmach was born April 5, 1927, in St. Cloud to Paul and Rose (Roda) Gorecki. She graduated from Foley High School in 1944 and went on to graduate from St. Cloud State University with a teaching degree in 1948. She married Jerome Stellmach on May 15, 1950, in Brennyville. Margaret taught school in Foley area country schools for 13 years and later was a substitute teacher for over seven years. After retiring from teaching she worked at the Foley Nursing Center. Margaret enjoyed canning and gardening and doing embroidery work, which she shared with much of her family. She also sold Park Lane Jewelry and Fuller Brush products for many years. She was an Auxiliary member and past president of the Hillman VFW Post No. 602, St. Elizabeth’s Christian Mother’s and past member of the Minnesota Teachers Association. She was an active member of the St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church where she also taught religion for many years.

She is survived by her children: Rose Ann (John) Gotvald, Foley; Bernadine (Norman) Latterell, Foley; Geri Ann (Dennis) Scholl, Foley; Cynthia (John) Alden, Foley; Gerard (Darla), Foley and Nita Stellmach of Foley as well as 13 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jerome,  brother Edmund Gorecki and sister,Florence Schmolke as well and infant brother Ernest and infant sisters Sophia and Genevieve.         

 

James O. Weitgenant, 80, Nisswa, died Sept. 28, 2019, at Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Brainerd, with his loving family at his side. Mass of Christian Burial for Jim took place at 11 a.m. Oct. 3 at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in Nisswa with Fr. Mike Patullo, Celebrant.  Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. Oct. 2 at Brenny Family Funeral Chapel in Baxter and for one hour prior to the service at the church Thursday. Burial took place at the Graham Cemetery, Rice.

Jim was born June 11, 1939, at St. Cloud, son of Raymond and Gladys (Schumann) Weitgenant. He grew up on the family farm near Rice and graduated from Sauk Rapids High School. He served in the U.S. Army from Oct. 7, 1959, to July  1961, and returned home following his discharge. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Karin Kornovich July 24, 1962, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Foreston. He began working for Honeywell and attended Northwestern Electronics, receiving a two-year degree as an electronic technician. He continued working for Honeywell until retiring after 44 years and 11 months of service to the company working in production and engineering. The family made their home in Brooklyn Park until moving to Nisswa in 2004.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping, including trips to the Boundary Waters. He and Karin were active members of the Merrifield Marathoners Snowmobile Club. Jim was a member of the Nisswa Lions Club and the Nisswa American Legion.

Jim will be dearly missed by his wife of 52 years, Karin; two sons: Troy (Patti) Weitgenant of Coon Rapids and Travis (Andrea) Weitgenant of Minneapolis; four grandchildren: Christopher, Ryan, Brianna and Jonathon; great grandson: Henry; siblings: Ruth Nelson of Princeton, George Weitgenant of Andover, and Clifford Weitgenant of Rice.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents: Raymond and Gladys Weitgenant; an infant sister; brother: Glen Weitgenant; and twin infant granddaughters: Olivia and Julia Weitgenant.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.  http://www.brenny.com.

Our country is in mourning, a soldier died today.        

Bishop John Francis Kinney, bishop emeritus of St. Cloud, died Sept. 27, 2019, at Quiet Oaks Hospice in St. Augusta. He was 82.

The bishop’s body will be received at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at the Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud, followed by a private family visitation from 2-2:30 p.m. and public visitation from 2:30-8 p.m. A vigil service will take place at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 5 public visitation will continue from 8-10:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. with Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis presiding. Burial will be at Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud.

Bishop Kinney headed the Diocese of St. Cloud from 1995 until his retirement in 2013. An ardent supporter of Catholic social teaching, marriage, youth and collaborative ministry, he strove to lead in the spirit of the diocese’s mission statement: to be Christ’s ‘heart of mercy, voice of hope and hands of justice.’

“Bishop Kinney was a kind and gracious pastoral leader,” said Bishop Donald Kettler, who succeeded Bishop Kinney in St. Cloud in 2013. “He was a strong defender of the dignity of every human being, and his love for the Church was evident both in his public ministry and personal life. May our Father in heaven now receive him warmly into his arms.”

Bishop Kinney was born June 11, 1937, in Oelwein, Iowa, to John and Marie (McCarty) Kinney. His only brother, Bernard, was eight years older.

He graduated from DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis and held a bachelor’s degree from St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul and a doctorate in canon law from Lateran University in Rome.

He was ordained to the priesthood Feb. 2, 1963, at the Cathedral of St. Paul in St. Paul by Archbishop Leo Binz. Bishop Kinney served in several positions in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, including nine years as chancellor. On Nov. 16, 1976, Pope Paul VI named him an auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese. Archbishop John Roach of St. Paul and Minneapolis ordained him a bishop Jan. 25, 1977. Bishop Kinney served as auxiliary bishop from 1977 to 1982.

On June 28, 1982, Pope John Paul II named him the bishop of Bismarck, N.D. He was installed Aug. 23, 1982. On May 9, 1995, Pope John Paul II named him the eighth bishop of St. Cloud. He was installed July 6, 1995.

While serving as bishop in Bismarck and St. Cloud, Bishop Kinney wrote six pastoral letters on liturgy, youth, AIDS, the sacrament of penance, marriage and social justice.

In 1993, the then-National Conference of Catholic Bishops appointed him to chair an ad hoc committee on sexual abuse. During his tenure as chair, the ad hoc committee published “Restoring Trust,” a document then used by dioceses to address sexual abuse in the church. Following revelations of clergy sexual abuse around the country, Bishop Kinney set up listening and information sessions that he personally attended in parishes around the diocese. He used the sessions to understand the pain and concern of people in the diocese and to open doors for dialogue and healing.

Committed to the global church, Bishop Kinney served on Catholic Relief Services’ board of directors from 1993-98. Bishop Kinney helped the Bismarck Diocese establish a mission in Kenya. With Father Bill Vos, St. Cloud diocesan director of Catholic Relief Services, he initiated the partnership between the St. Cloud Diocese and Homa Bay Diocese in Kenya in 1999. The diocesan relationship with Maracay, Venezuela, was established in 1963 and became a Global Solidarity Partnership under Bishop Kinney’s leadership.

Bishop Kinney visited Homa Bay and Maracay. He made trips to other areas of close relationship and connection to the Diocese of St. Cloud, including to the Diocese of Agats, Indonesia, where the Crosiers ministered, and to South Sudan during and after the years of war to visit Bishop Paride Taban and other Southern Sudanese bishops. Other travels took him to Angola, Cambodia, Tanzania, Thailand, Vietnam and Zanzibar.

Pope Francis accepted Bishop Kinney’s retirement upon Bishop Kettler’s installation.

During his retirement he lived at the Speltz House in Sauk Rapids and remained an avid reader.

 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 at Country Manor Chapel in Sartell for Cecilia E. Ruhoff, age 97, of Sartell who passed away Sept. 22, 2019 at Country Manor Health Care Center in Sartell. The Rev. Mark Stang will officiate and burial will be in St. Lawrence Cemetery in Duelm. Visitation will be after 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 at the chapel. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Cecilia was born April 28, 1922, to William and Matilda (Brunn) David in Glendorado Township. She married Joseph Ruhoff  Feb. 11, 1946, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Duelm. She was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church and was involved with the Christian Mothers. She was also a member of the Crosier Apostolate. Cecilia was very social and enjoyed playing cards and bowling. She kept her hands busy with sewing, embroidery and gardening. Cecilia was good hearted, practical, thrifty and hard working. Amongst everything, she loved her family and was proud of her children and grandchildren.

Cecilia is survived by her children, Diane Winczewski of Sartell, Bill (Bonnie) Ruhoff of Sauk Rapids, Cathy Thornhill of Maple Grove, John “Jack” (Susan) of Champlin, Chuck (Rhonda) of St. Stephen; sisters, Eleanor Brambrink of Sauk Rapids, Agnes Hoffmann of Pillager; brother, Ervin David of Foley; eight grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph on July 1, 2005; brother, Donald, William, Jr; sisters, Helen David and Kathryn Denfeld; and sons-in-law, Bob Winczewski and Tim Thornhill.
Memorials are preferred to Alzheimer’s Association.  

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online at http://www.williamsdingmann.com.        

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Ann Marie Czech, age 57, Gilman, died Sept. 6, 2019, at her home in Gilman surrounded by her loving family.

Christian Mass was at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 9 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church of Gilman with burial immediately following the mass.

Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Sept. 8 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church of Gilman. Parish prayers were 6:30 p.m. Visitation continued one hour prior to services Monday. Funeral arrangements were made by Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud.
Ann Marie Czech was born May 27, 1962, in New Ulm to John and Marlys Thorson. She graduated from Becker High School. Ann worked at Foley Nursing Home, then moved onto TLC in Foley and lastly was employed at the St. Cloud Hospital. She was passionately serving others for 36 years. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. She loved camping, going out for dinner with her family and being surrounded by her friends. Ann was fondly remembered for her love for diet Pepsi and ice cream and also for her bubbly personality.

She is survived by her husband, Mitch Czech, daughter and son, Kalley and Tyler of Gilman. She is also survived by her brother, Mark (Gail) Thorson of Sartell; her sister, Cindy (David) Kirchoff of Clear Lake. Father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joe and Claudette Czech of Gilman; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Mark (Shelley) Czech of Gilman; Michelle (Randy) Spiczka of Gilman; Mary (Virgil) Spiczka of Gilman; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marlys Thorson of Waite Park; brother-in-law, Dale Herman of Gilman and niece Jayna Spiczka.   

 

Clara Mary Brenny, age 100, of Sauk Rapids, died peacefully Sept. 3, 2019, with her family surrounding her.  Mass of Christian Burial for Clara was at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 6, 2019, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Gilman. The Rev. Matthew Langager officiated. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Thursday evening at the Foley Funeral Home with parish prayers at 6:15 p.m. Visitation continued one hour prior to services Friday at the church. Burial was in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.

Clara was born April 20, 1919, in Pierz to Joseph and Frances (Hoffman) Tschida. She grew up with five other siblings. One of her first jobs was at The Style (dress) Shop in town. During WWII she worked at 3M (Minnesota Mining) in St. Paul and loved living in the city. She returned home after the death of a brother, Leo, during WWII. Clara met Jerome Brenny on a blind date and they were married May 29, 1950, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Royalton. They raised their family of five children on the Brenny Century Farm in Benton County. After 31 years of farm life, they retired to a home near Gilman. Clara loved all 50 of her descendants along with volunteering, sewing, cooking, gardening and bird watching. A hundred years of life gives one a wealth of experience and is a testament to Clara’s ability to adapt to the many changes she’s seen.

Surviving are her children, Marcia (Tom) Stevens of Emily, Karen (Dan) Lieser of Sauk Rapids, Mark (Sandy) Brenny of Sauk Rapids, Paulette Peduzzi of Upper Jay, NY, Kevin (Carolyn) Brenny of Rogers, 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, one sister Melitta Mae (Lyle) Ducklow of Maplewood, one sister-in-law Eileen (Clarence) Tschida of Elk River.

She is preceded in death by husband Jerry, parents Joe and Frances, brothers Leo and Clarence, sisters Lorraine Grahn, Loretta Lee, brothers-in-law Vince Grahn, Pete Lee, son-in-law Mark Peduzzi.

Memorials to Clara’s favorite charities are preferred in lieu of flowers: Crosier Apostolate (Onamia), Christian Mothers, Salesian Missions and Catholic Charities.

Beverly J. Popp, age 75, of Eagan. Died Aug. 20, 2019. Preceded in death by parents, Alphonse and Ida (nee Kantor) Moulzolf; brother, David. Survived by children, Loren (Lori), Leonard, Lee (Teresa); grandchildren, Eric (Katie), Matthew (Jamie), Brandon (Katie), Cory (Kristi), Andy (Brittany), Lee Jr., and Alex; great-grandchildren, Julia, Evelyn, Olivia, and two on the way. Blessed to have a fourth young man, Scott Touisgnat and his two sons, Samuel and Louis, in her life. Also survived by brother, Jerry (Terri) Moulzolf, former husband, Lawrence; and other nieces, nephews and friends. Bev was a stay at home mom, worked at Republic and Northwest Airlines, and also the Valley Lounge in Eagan. Polka music was her life. She held the position of president and secretary of P.O.L.K.A. of America, and starred in Grumpier Old Men. She loved to travel and owned seasonal homes at Carefree Country Club North and South.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28 at St. John Neumann Church, 4030 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at Klecatsky & Sons Eagan Chapel, 1580 Century Pt., Eagan; and one hour prior to the Mass at church. Interment St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Brennyville. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

Klecatsky & Sons Eagan Chapel www.klecatskys.com. 651-454-9488.          

Walter Albrecht, age 87, of Foley passed away peacefully Aug. 6, 2019 surrounded by his family in Minneapolis.  Private family services will take place.

Walter Emil Albrecht Jr. was born July 18, 1932 in Deerbrook, Wisc. the son of Walter E. Albrecht and Lucille (Nuemeg) Albrecht. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy.  Walt resided in San Diego, Calif. where he was a general contractor and engineer, later retiring to Corona, S.D. where he owned Hartford Beach Resort on Big Stone Lake. In Corona, he enjoyed his favorite hobbies such as fishing and hunting.  Walt later moved to Foley with his wife, Alice (Hamilton) Albrecht. Walt enjoyed spending time with his family, gardening and bird watching. His best Sundays would be spent watching his favorite football team, the Green Bay Packers.

Walt is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter, Deborah (Albrecht) Boykin; granddaughters, Ashley and Sabina Boykin; step-children:  Debbie Butorac, Jim Hagen, Kenny Fueling, and Michael Hagen; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends.         

Betty Fleigle, age 77, of Oak Park passed away July 30, 2019 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 6, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Foreston. The Rev. Derek Wiechmann will officiate. Visitation will from 9:30 a.m.  until the time of the service at the church Tuesday. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Betty Fleigle was born July 13, 1942, in Milaca, to John and Lorraine (Tip) Peterson. She attended Milaca High School and married Richard Fleigle Oct. 31, 1959, at St. Louis Catholic Church. The couple lived in Minneapolis where the couple owned their own duplex, and Betty worked as a daycare provider for several years. In 1977, Richard and Betty moved north of Oak Park where they enjoyed life in the country. She worked for the Foley Nursing Center as a nurses aid for over 30 years. Betty enjoyed gardening and liked flowers and watching the birds. They couple traveled extensively and visited most western states and Canada. Some of her favorite memories were of camping and fishing with her family. Betty was a devoted Catholic and was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church.  She will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Richard of Oak Park and sons; Dean (Shelly), Sauk Rapids; Darren of Sartell, grandson, Daniel and brothers and sister: Lonnie Smith, St. Paul; John Peterson Jr., Mora; Joanne (Jim) Hirsh, St. Cloud and a brother-in-law, Dennis (Bonnie) Fleigle of Big Lake. She is preceded in death by her parents, son, Duane and brother, Richard Peterson.        

Gregory Clifford Olson, age 69, passed on July 19 surrounded by his loved ones at his residence in Mora. Memorial service will take place Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Milaca with Rev. Tim Bauer officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church Saturday.

Greg was born Jan. 18, 1950, to Clifford and Dorothy Olson in Princeton. He attended Princeton High School. As a young adult, Greg held a couple of different jobs, such as Grove’s and Jesco’s. Greg also spent some time working and living in Texas. He went on to own his own brick-laying company, G.O. Block and Concrete. Greg spent a lot of time at his sister Diane’s (LeRoy) house, enjoying the company of her family. The Kitten Club was also a pasttime Greg and his sisters enjoyed.

He enjoyed hobby farming, fishing, hunting, dancing, and anything to do with animals or kids. He was known for his enthusiastic storytelling, great sense of humor, and contagious laugh. When Greg wasn’t working, it wasn’t uncommon to find him shooting the breeze with neighbors and friends, coffee pot on, and lit cigarette in hand.

Greg is survived by his children, Jason (Melinda) Akers of Cody, Wyo., Kaleb Olson of Foreston, Alesha Olson of Foreston, Alanna Olson of Mora, and Lydia Olson of Princeton; grandchildren: Janine, Taylor, Chevy, and Isabella; and siblings: Diane (LeRoy) Jacobson of Foley and Marsha of Missouri;  also by many  nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Holly, nephews, Aaron and Mathew, niece, Janine, and sister, Catherine.  

 

Travis Johnson, age 45 of Royalton passed away July 26, 2019, at the St. Cloud Hospital.  Memorial Service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 3, 2019, at the Foley Funeral Home.  Rev. Tim Wittwer will officiate.  Visitation will be from 10 to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home on Saturday. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Travis Wayne Johnson was born July 6, 1974, in Coon Rapids to Leonard and June (Bucholz) Johnson. He worked as a mechanic for many years and enjoyed racing anything with a motor. He was also an avid deer hunter and fisherman. He liked to cut wood, liked eagles and anything that involved the outdoors. Travis especially liked spending time with his family and friends and was always there to help other people.  Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.

He is survived by his wife, Julie Lombard-Johnson and children; Hannah Lombard, Joseph Lombard-Johnson and Sammy Johnson, all of Royalton.  He is also survived by his mother, June Johnson of Coon Rapids and brother, Todd (Kathy) Johnson of Zimmerman and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard. 

Gerald Winter, age 75, of Foley, passed away July 21, 2019, at his home surrounded by his family. Mass of Christian Burial  took place at 11 a.m., July 24, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Gilman. Rev. Eberhard Schefers officiated. Visitation was 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Foley Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church Wednesday. Burial took place in the parish cemetery.  Military honors by the Foley American Legion. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.

Gerald Cyril Winter was born May 24, 1944, in Spring Hill to Richard and Marcella (Ostendorf) Winter. He married Marjorie Montag Feb. 14, 1970, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake. Jerry was a member of the Army National Guard from 1962-66. He farmed and raised hogs near Gilman for many years and worked as a lineman for NSP and also worked for Morton Building and retired from A&P Construction. Jerry enjoyed hunting and fishing and trips to the casino with his brother-in-law, Gary. He also liked to mow his lawn and do work with his Bobcat, traveling and taking golf cart rides and spending time with his wife, Marge, which he loved very much. He was a member of the Foley American Legion, Gilman Knight’s of Columbus and SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Marge of Foley; sons and daughters, Tim (Amy), Stacy (Justin) Chmielewski, Jenny (Wayne) Starry, Kelly (Eric) Baynes, Jessie (Bruce) Kaschmitter, Kristin (Josh) Luberda and Brent (Tara), all of Foley; 16 grandchildren; and brothers and sister, Richard (Kathy) of St. Cloud Judy Doubrava of Sauk Centre and Dennis (Nancy) of Sauk Centre; and brother-in-law, Bob Hoeschen of Freeport.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Donna Hoeschen; brother, Larry Winter; brother-in-law, Del Doubrava; nephew, Kenny Hoeschen; and nieces, Sandy Hoeschen and Shannon Winter.  

Mass of Christian Burial for Marcella Ecklund age 95, of St. Cloud, formerly of Foreston, took place at 10:30 a.m. July 20 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Foreston. Visitation was one hour prior to services.  Interment followed in Forest Hill Cemetery near Milaca.
Marcella Ecklund was born March 8, 1924, to John and Anna (Kaufman) Scherer in Oak Park. She attended country school and graduated from Foley High School. She was united in marriage to Bill Ecklund  Oct. 1944, at St. John’s in Foley.
She grew up on a farm near Oak Park, married, and moved to Granite Ledge Township. She lived in Washington for four years, working in a cannery. In 1953, they moved to a farm near Foreston. She sang in the St. Louis church choir for 40 plus years and was active in Christian Mothers.  She was in Benton County Homemakers and a Benton County 4-H leader.
Marcella loved to dance and played organ by ear. She spent winters in Texas and Florida. She loved to fish and liked going to her son’s lake home for fishing.
Marcella passed away July 15, 2019, at St. Benedict’s Senior Community in St. Cloud.
Marcella is survived by her children, Kevin (Theresa) Ecklund of Foreston, Colleen (Mike) Coulon of Stillwater, and Karen (Don) Slegers of Milaca; grandchildren, Lisa (Al) Pfannenstein of St.  Joseph, Kimberly Slegers of Minneapolis, Heidi Slegers of St. Paul, Todd Kallem of Albuquerque, N.M., Crissy Kallem of Hudson, Wis., and Brent (Cas) Coulon of Oakdale; great-grandchildren, Michael Pfannenstein, Kendra  and Natasha Kallem, Jackson O’Neil, Marcella and Cora Coulon; great-great grandchildren, Jemma and Joanna; sister, Millie Butler of Sartell; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, Bill, three brothers, three sisters, great-great grandson, Timothy, nieces, nephews, and friends.                  
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