Randy Lyle Klinski, 55, of Caledonia, Minnesota was called by his Heavenly Father to his eternal home on Saturday, December 5, 2015.

Randy was born December 1, 1960, in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Lyle and Marie (Slama) Klinski. On May 12, 1979, Randy married the love of his life Debby Olafson. They have lived in the Caledonia area their entire life.

Randy had a very strong faith in his Lord and Savior. Faith and family are the things that mattered most to Randy. He was a true friend to everyone. If you needed anything you could call him and he would be right there to help and he would always go above and beyond. Randy was ‘The genuine good guy’ with a heart full of love and compassion. His sense of humor was beyond compare. He was always smiling and always had a story or a joke to share.

Randy was so talented at so many things. He loved farming and was really good at it. Randy’s farm (Rocky Meadows) kept him busy doing the things that he loved; working outdoors, fencing, driving Holty’s big machinery and crop farming with his son Jason.

Another earthly joy Randy had was his love of American motor cars. His collection included the Javelin, the Rebel Machine and he was especially fond of his AMX and of course the Jeep Wagoneer. He loved going to car shows and made a yearly trip to Cordova, Illinois to do some drag racing.

He was employed by Winona Controls of which he was the former owner. He was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Caledonia.

Randy is survived by his wife of 36 years Debby, three sons Joe, Jason (Beth), and Justin (Bethany). Grandchildren Marissa, Joseph, Adelynn, Andrew, Lily, Connor, Waylon and Lavinia.

Randy could not be more proud of his family, they really were his whole world. He is also survived by his father Lyle Klinski, two brothers Richard (Yin Ciao), Ronald (Sharon) and two sisters, Grace Anderson and Nancy (Tim) Rieck. Brother-in-laws David (Sheri) Olafson, Jim (Pat) Olafson, Gordon Olafson, Ardell Olafson. Sister-in-laws Ann (Bill) Miller, Gloria (Dennis) Erickson, Arlene (Norman) Larson, Jeannie Lafayette, Sherie (Clinton) Brainard and many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Randy was preceded in death by his mother Marie Klinski, mother-in-law Adella Olafson, father-in-law Melvin Olafson, his brother Gary Klinski, his grandparents and brother-in-laws, Jordan Anderson, Bill Milller, Junior Olafson, Dennis Erickson and Norman Larson.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 10, 2015 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Caledonia. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. and from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday. Both are at the church. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery Caledonia, Minnesota.

Pall Bearers: Joe Klinski, Jason Klinski, Justin Klinski, Jon Slama, Craig Weckman, Dave Mathews.

2 Timothy 4:7-I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.

Randy we love you to eternity. Blessed be your memory.

Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Cematory, Caledonia Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Dan Kirkpatrick 63, of Freeburg, Minnesota died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, December 3, 2015.

Dan was born November 1, 1952 in Arlington, Virginia to John & Wanda Kirkpatrick. He entered the U.S. Army in 1971 after high school in McLean, Virginia. He served as a door gunner with the 57th Attack Helicopter Outfit. He was wounded during combat and awarded the Nations Purple Heart. He was also awarded a Bronze Star with âVâ for valor for heroic actions while under enemy fire.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda (Beebe) of Freebug, Minnesota, brother Ray (Patricia) of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, and loving sister Wanda Hudson (Tom) of Haymarket, Virginia.

Dan also leaves behind niece, Lisa Weisman & nephews Doug, Larry & Keith Schull of Virginia, mother and father-in-law, Edward and Evelyn Bebee, sisters-in-law, Deanna Colsch, Rhonda Bebee, Sharlene Bebee and several  nieces and nephews; not to forget his beloved German Shepards, Lobo and Nakita.

He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Adam Woodard.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 9 at Evangelical Church of Peace, Freeburg. Rev. William Reese will officiate and military rites will be given by New Albin VFW Post 5603 following the service. Interment will be at the Minnesota State Veteran’s Cemetery, Preston at a later date. Visitation will be from 1  to 2 p.m. Wednesday at the church before the service. Memorials suggested to Wounded Warriors Project, Inc. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net

Richard Dwaine “Dick” Hatlevig, 63, of rural Lanesboro, Minnesota died on Sunday, December 6, 2015, at his home.

Richard was born on March 26, 1952, in Lanesboro, Minnesota to Clair and Myrtle (Holtegard) Hatlevig.

He was raised in rural Lanesboro and graduated from Peterson High School in 1970. He graduated from Waldorf College in Forrest City, Iowa and attended Sioux Falls University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Dick played football while attending both colleges. Dick later received his bachelor’s degree in education from Winona State University and his special education certification from the University of Minnesota.

He married Patricia Noonan on January 26, 1974, in Sioux Falls South Dakota.

Dick taught special education in the Caledonia School District in Caledonia, Minnesota for 24 years. His two loves outside of his family were hunting and coaching.

Dick is survived by his wife, Pat; mother, Myrtle of Lanesboro, MN; five children: Troy (Nicole) Hatlevig of Stow, MA, Toby (Janelle) Hatlevig of Mazeppa, MN., Travis (Nadine) Hatlevig of Montgomery, MN, Tiffany (Tony) Young of Lanesboro, MN, and Trent Hatlevig, serving across the country as a Navy Seal; nine grandchildren: Josephine, Isaak, Wyatt, Ruby, Caleb, Vivian, Elijah, Korbin, and Margaret; and five siblings: Marlys (Pete Peterson) Hatlevig, Tom Hatlevig, Robert (Helen) Hatlevig, Robin (Adrian) Toy, and Cheryl Hatlevig; sister-in-law, Barb Hatlevig; and by several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, who Dick loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, and two brothers, Donald and David.

There will be a Funeral Mass for Dick at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 11, 2015, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rushford with the Rev. Pratap Reddy officiating. Burial will be in the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Rushford. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Hoff Funeral and Cremation Service in Rushford and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Leave a memory of Dick, sign his online guestbook and view his tribute video when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com

Wilbur “Stubby” Jerome Loken, 86, of Houston, Minnesota died on Monday, December 7, 2015 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Born March 13, 1929 in Houston, Minnesota to Martin and Martha (Hilliard) Loken. He spent most of his childhood in Houston and at the age of 15, left school behind and started working. On November 5, 1950 he was united in marriage to Doris McGaffey at Money Creek Methodist Church.  He joined the Air Force in 1947, serving 22 years of active service, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1969.  Upon retiring, he returned back to his place of birth in Houston to work for Loerch Implement and then started his second career as the Grounds, Building & Transportation Director for the Houston School District for 28 years. When Wilbur really “retired” he spent his time camping with his wife, Doris, working on his antique cars, tinkering in the garage and enjoyed his Saturday morning visits with his friends at the Houston American Legion.

He was a member of Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston, 46 year member of the Houston American Legion Post 423 and a member of the Viking Chapter of the Antique Auto Club.

Wilbur is survived by his wife, Doris; children, Michael (Brenda) of Crestview, Florida, Karen Todd of Houston, Minnesota, Kathleen (Ron) Carrier of Rushford, Minnesota and Elizabeth (Troy Nelson) Strong of La Crosse, Wisconsin; 10 grandchildren; 18 great- grandchildren; siblings, Thomas (Rose) Loken of La Crosse, Wisconsin, Imogene Carlson of San Jose, California; sisters-in-law, Glenis Loken of Houston, Minnesota and Kendra Loken of Green Valley, Arizona and many nieces and nephews.

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Marvin, James, Glenn, Kenneth and sister, Geraldine Griebenow; sisters-in-law, Alice Loken, Vilas Loken; brothers-in-law, Dale Griebenow, Karl Carlson; sons-in-law, Dennis Todd and Alan Strong and nieces, Peggy Locken and Susan (Loken) Knutson.

Funeral Service will be 11 a.m., Friday, December 11, 2015 at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston with the Reverend Leonard Liptack officiating. Burial will follow at Stone Church Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m., Thursday at the church and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be designated to Cross of Christ Lutheran Church.

Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service – Houston is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share a memory of Wilbur, sign his online guestbook and view his video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com

William “Bill” Joseph Baxter, 90, of rural New Albin, Iowa passed away Monday, December 21, 2015 at Thornton Manor Care Center in Lansing, Iowa with his wife, Hazel, at his side.   

He was born November 1, 1925 in Waukon, Iowa to Leonard and Leona (Howes) Baxter. He graduated from St. Patrick High School and continued farming with his parents until he joined the United States Army in 1951 where he was stationed in Tokyo, Japan during the Korean War. He was proud of his military service. He served as a military driver for top brass in Tokyo. Bill was united in marriage with Hazel Rodenkirk July 18, 1956 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Decorah, Iowa.                                     

Bill was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in New Albin Post #5603. He was also a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Albin. Bill farmed for 40 years in rural New Albin in Winnebago Valley. He enjoyed his regular family reports about the height of the corn and talking about farming with friends and family. He was a man of strong faith; praying the rosary daily and visiting the sick were things he loved to do. Most of all, Bill enjoyed spending time with his family.   

Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Hazel Rodenkirk Baxter; and nine children: Loretta Baxter (Cass Simpson), Racine, Wisconsin; Ellen (Dan) Hosmanek, Racine; Julie (Patrick) Gregory, Winona, Minnesota; Joseph Baxter (Shirley Compton), Caledonia, Minnesota; Frank Baxter (Heather Marin), Winona; Paul Baxter, Davenport, Iowa; Margaret Hollatz, Waupaca, Wisconsin; Donna Hopfensperger (Kurt), Appleton, Wisconsin; and Patrick Baxter (Tomoki Motsumoto), Orlando, Florida.  Bill has six grandchildren and 1 ½ great grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters, Margaret (Ray) Steinhart, Platteville, Wisconsin; Sara (Bob) Hrdlicka, Charles City, Iowa; Ruth Rainey, Lewiston, Idaho; and one sister-in-law, Rosemary Holland, Decorah; and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and three sons: Cyril, in May, 1964; Daniel, in May, 1977; and Charles, in August, 1990. He was also preceded in death by his brother, John (Margie) Baxter, and Katherine (Robert) Irons of Waukon and Lorraine (Don) Skrypek of Paynesville, Minnesota.

Bill’s family would like to thank Dr. Whiteway and the caring staff at the Veteran’s Clinic in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Angie Cooper and the amazing staff at Thornton Manor in Lansing, Iowa for the care that they showed Bill over the years. They would also like to thank Father John Moser for his many visits to the nursing home.

Mass of the Resurrection will be on Monday, December 28, 2015 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Albin, Iowa. Visitation will be on Sunday, December 27, 2015 at Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home in Lansing from 4 until 7 p.m. with a rosary at 4 p.m. There will also be a one hour visitation before the Mass of the Resurrection at the church on Monday.

Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, New Albin with full military honors.

Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Lansing, Iowa is helping the family with arrangements.

Janelle Colleran, 83, of Caledonia, died Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at her home.

McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family with arrangements. A full obituary will follow.

Hank Peter Hegge, 19, of Spring Grove, Minnesota, passed into the eternal care of our Lord on December 17, 2015, in Bozeman, Montana.

He was born February 16, 1996, to Bruce and Teresa (Francisco) Hegge. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove. He graduated from Spring Grove High School in 2014 and studied at Montana State University.

Hank’s 19 year old star shone with the sparkle and brilliance of youth. Like that star, what was most distinguishing about Hank was his gentle warmth and intensity. In Hank’s absence, his warmth and intensity will forever remain in our hearts.

Hank’s greatest joy was when he was with his family and friends. His greatest passions involved outdoor activities, no matter what the season. His easy smile, quick wit, and warm heart made him good company for any occasion.

He is survived by his father, Bruce, and brother, Lance Hegge, of Spring Grove; two grandmothers, Janice Hegge of Spring Grove and Kathleen Francisco of Opportunity, Montana; aunts and uncles, Karin (Hiroshi) Tanaka of Memphis, Tennessee; Sara (Darin) Bratland of Spring Grove; Michele (Doug) Butori of Crackerville, Montana; Kathy Francisco and John Brown of Bozeman, Montana; John (Megan) Francisco of Butte, Montana; and cousins, Joie, Luca, and Keita Tanaka, Lindsey, Samantha and Carter Bratland, Tony (Norah Barney) Butori, Wayne (Christina, Hazel and Tucker) Butori, Erin Butori, Aidan and Mae Francisco.

He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Teresa, and grandfathers, Owen Hegge and Jack Francisco.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given to a fund being set up in Hank’s memory.

A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, December 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. and memorial service for Wednesday, December 30, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove.

Roble Funeral Home in Spring Grove is assisting the family with arrangements.

Elizabeth “Betty” Therese Burg, age 90 of Owatonna, Minnesota, formerly of Caledonia, Minnesota, died peacefully on Christmas morning, in her home.

She was born on February 18, 1925 to Benjamin and Mary (McNamara) Mullarkey.  On October 18, 1947, she was united in marriage to Arnold Burg in Wexford, Iowa. The two of them resided in the Caledonia area where they raised five children.  Betty was a homemaker who worked diligently caring for her family. She was also employed at the Caledonia nursing home for two years, caring for the residents.

Betty was an absolutely amazing wife, mother, and grandmother who loved us unconditionally. She had a way of making people feel special and joyful. Faithful, loving, humble, kind and comforting are words that best describe Betty. She had a very deep faith in God and was a shining example on how to treat others and live your life. She was an exceptional person and will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her five children; Roger (Susan) Burg and Ralph (Marilyn) Burg, both of Caledonia; Arlene (John) Poling of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; Jane Morley of Owatonna, Minnesota; and Gina (Daniel) Iverson of Westby, Wisconsin; 11 grandchildren, Ryan (Jen) Burg, Alyssa (Scott) Roland, Christopher Burg, Rebecca (Rick) Fortner, Cindy Burg, Jena Poling, Kristi Poling, Lindsey (Charles) Schultz, Mara Morley, Caitlin Morley and Jack Iverson; three great-grandchildren; Abby Wruck, Izzy and Alek Burg. She is also survived by two sisters, Mary Schellhammer of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Alice (Ernest) Luster of Lansing, Iowa; and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Mullarkey of Winterset, Iowa.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings and their spouses, Rita (Jim) Brennan, Linus (Joan) Mullarkey, Ann (Melvin) DeLong, Frank (Mary) Mullarkey, Vince Mullarkey and Ernest Schellhammer.

Blessed be our memory of Elizabeth Burg.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church of Caledonia Tuesday, December 29 at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Janelle Ann Colleran, 83, of Caledonia, Minnesota passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on December 23, 2015.

She was born September 27, 1932 in Mason City, Iowa to Stella (Neste) and Paul Thompson.

Janelle attended Forest City, Iowa High School and recently attended her 60th class reunion. When Paul purchased the Gamble Hardware Store the family moved from Forest City to Caledonia. Janelle met the love of her life, Bob Colleran, and they married on November 17, 1951 at St John the Baptist Church.

Janelle was mainly a homemaker, but also worked at the Caledonia Hospital, the Country Rose, and was a Hospice volunteer for over 18 years. She also taught religion classes for many years and was a member of Catholic Daughters and CCW. Her faith and her prayer group kept her strong. If you saw scarecrows or other living mannequins at local events, chances are they were Janelle and her various cohorts, usually Gretchen and Rosie. She was proud of her Irish and Norwegian heritage and enjoyed flowers, traveling, playing cards and doing anything that made people laugh. One of the favorite trips was to her hometown of Forest City which her great grandfather, Robert Clark, founded. She enjoyed exploring the family history. Her friends and family were so important to her and she was our “Sunshine”.

She will be deeply missed by her six children, Marcella “Sally” and Mark Harren, Rice, Minnesota and their children, Stephanie (Jake) Andrews, Ryan (Heather) Harren; Robert “Bob” Colleran Jr., Green Bay, Wisconsin; Timothy and Cindy Colleran, Caledonia, and their children, Christopher (Morgan) Colleran, Sarah Colleran and Samantha Colleran; Cindy and Duane Olson, Caledonia, and their children, Joe Olson and Jessica Olson; Mary Jo Evans, Taylors Falls, Minnesota and her children, Aaron (Hiddie) Lanik, Adam Lanik, Alex Lanik and Angela Lanik; Michael and Fernanda Colleran, Caledonia, and their children, Bia Colleran and Michael Colleran. She is also survived by eight great-grandchildren, with 1 great grandchild on the way; brother and sister-in-law Don and Carol Thompson, Arvada, Colorado; and brother and sister-in-law Tommy and Sandy Thompson, Greensboro, North Carolina.

She was preceeded in death by her husband, Bob Colleran; parents, Paul and Stella Thompson; in-laws, Joesph and Agnes Colleran; sister and brother-in-law, Carol (Don) Butz; sister and brother in-law, Gayle (Richard) Staats; brother, Robert; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Bill and Mary Colleran; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Dorothy and Earl Lord.

Visitation will be held Sunday, December 27 at 4 p.m. at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall, Caledonia with the Rosary at 3:30 and prayer service to follow. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, December 28 at 10:30 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to Mass at St. Mary’s Church. Father Fasnacht will officiate and burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Caledonia. McCormick Funeral Home is assisting the family and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net

Memorials can be made to St Mary’s School, St Mary’s Parish or Calvary Cemetery.

Hazel Burmester, 96, formerly of Caledonia, Minn., passed away Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015, at Callista Court Assisted Living in Winona, Minn.

She was born August 26, 1919, in Caledonia Township to Oscar and Ingeborg (Halvorson) Jacobson. On August 10, 1941, she married Walter Burmester at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove, Minn. Together they farmed on Hazel’s home farm on Beaver Ridge, rural Caledonia, until 1998 when they moved into the city of Caledonia. Hazel and Walter’s children often kiddingly referred to them as Hazelnut and Walnut. While on the farm, Hazel was very meticulous on maintaining her home and yard. On Jan. 2, 1999, Walter preceded Hazel in death. Hazel was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Caledonia where she taught Sunday School and served in various capacities. Hazel was proud of her Norwegian heritage and in her later years, she joined the Sons of Norway. She also enjoyed sewing and quilting.

Survivors include her four daughters, Judy (Bob) Martin of Tucson, Ariz., Karen Lukaszewski of Winona, Joyce Burmester of Madison, Wis., and Kathy (Fred) Von Arx of La Crescent, Minn.; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Mabel Jacobson of Caledonia.

In addition to her husband, Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her 18 month old son, Steven; her brother, Almon Jacobson; and her sister and brother-in-law, Esther and Jim Ostern.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Caledonia. Rev. Steven E. Meyer will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service Tuesday at the church.  Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Lotus Evelyn (Eddy) Vesterse, 91, of Spring Grove died Dec. 26, 2015, at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, Wis. She was born at home on June 10, 1924, in Wessington Springs, S.D., to Vernon and Verlie (Parmley) Eddy. She had been a Spring Grove resident for most of her life, attending Spring Grove High School. On April 28, 1943, she married Ellsworth (Red) Vesterse, at Faith Lutheran Church in Black Hammer, rural Spring Grove. She had worked as a waitress, and also as a factory worker and a union steward for Mansfield, Control Data and Northern Engraving in Spring Grove. She was an American Legion Auxiliary member, a devoted bingo player, and a counselor and friend to many. She is survived by her children, Don Vesterse, Dennis (Dianne) Vesterse and Vernee (Gary) Dahlberg of Spring Grove, Rick Vesterse of Hokah, Randi (Roger) Vick of Caledonia and Holly (Willie) Falck of Decorah; 17 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Carlton (Cecelia) Vesterse, and sister-in-law, Dolly Onstad, of Spring Grove, and sisters-in-law, Diane Allen of Caledonia and Betty Eddy of Casper, Wy. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ellsworth (Red), on Sept. 12, 1991; her daughter, Connie Jo, on March 17, 1975; great-grandson, Jack David Vesterse; her brother, Bernard; and her special friend, Myron Burmaster. Funeral services were held Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Black Hammer, rural Spring Grove with the Rev. Zane Anderson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Friends called Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Roble Funeral Home in Spring Grove, and one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday.

Harlan (Harley) Sanford Moen, 76, passed away January 1, 2016, at home, in Lake Wales, Fla., formerly of Caledonia and Freeburg, Minn. and Frederick, Md., surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with pancreatic and bone cancer. He was the son of Sanford Odin and Hazel Christine (Hanson) Moen.  He married Coleen Antoinette (Noel) Lenser February 18, 1984.

Harley was a sales manager in the building trade until his retirement, but he said, his favorite job was running the merry-go-round at the Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales, which he did after retirement. Children loved him and wanted him to look after their favorite horse.

He is survived by his wife, three daughters and a son from previous marriages, Deborah Moen, Teri (James) Mohler, Cathy (David) James,  residing in Maryland and West Virginia, Harlan Sanford Moen II, Omaha, Neb. and sons Samuel Scott (Tonia) Lenser, Fort Worth, Texas and Brian Alan (Anna) Moen, sister, Sondra (Delbert) Stehr, brother-in-law, Alan (Kari) Noel, 14 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and his constant companion, his dog, “Tater”.  He was preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law, Lila Noel, father-in-law, Andrew Noel, a great nephew and his unofficial “brother” Ronald Grenier.

Services (date to be set) will be at the Bushnell Military Cemetery in Florida.

Pearl M. Roth, 96, of Hokah, Minn., died Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016, at Clara House, La Crescent, Minn.

She was born to Franklin and Mathilda (Muenkel) Meiners on July 19, 1919, in Caledonia, Minn. Pearl was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, Caledonia.  After graduating from high school in Caledonia, she attended La Crosse Vocational School of Business and subsequently worked for Sprague National Bank. On Feb. 2, 1953, Pearl married Russel B. Roth. They raised three children, David, Arnold, and Julie, on a farm north of Brownsville until 1968, when they moved to Hokah. At that time they began Tri-State Logging Supply and a few years later Tri-State Forest Products.  Pearl managed the bookkeeping for both businesses until their sale and Russel’s death on March 20, 1991.  At the age of 96, Pearl was still doing some book work for her son, Arnie, at Roth Metalworks. Being a person of detail, she was very interested in genealogy. Pearl was continually gathering pictures and family history. Keeping in contact with family and friends was also very important to her. Pearl wrote many letters to keep in touch and to inform them of current happenings.

Pearl is survived by her son, David Roth of Hokah, son; Arnie (Kathy) Roth of La Crescent, Minn.; son-in-law, Landi Ristani of Eden Prairie, Minn.; sister, Evelyn Wornardt, of West Bend, Wis.; four grandchildren, Michael (Rebecca) Roth, Jamie Roth, Gina Ristani, and Evan Ristani; one great grandchild, Madison Trombley; and three nieces and one nephew.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Russel; daughter, Julie; brother, Lloyd; an infant sister; and one niece.

Funeral services will be at 12 noon, Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 650 N. Kingston St., Caledonia, Minn. Rev. Jon Wolff will officiate. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Clara House and Gundersen Hospice who helped care for Pearl during the last days and months of her life.

Duane “Dewey” Francis Strub, 73, of Caledonia, passed away peacefully, the evening of Thursday, January 14, 2016, surrounded by his family at Mayo Health Systems, La Crosse, Wis.

Dewey was born December 1, 1942, in Lansing, Iowa, to Vincent and Edna (Halvorson) Strub and he attended school in Lansing. He married Loretta Schuttemeier on May 9, 1964, and they later divorced. Dewey bought and ran his dad’s farm outside Caledonia. He was a dedicated dairy farmer who involved his family with the daily life of farming and he cherished the beautiful land they lived on. After farming, he owned and operated several businesses including B&D Seal Coating, manufacturing, trucking and excavating.

Dewey loved the outdoors, especially snowmobiling, boating, tractor pulls, and four wheeling. He was a proud member of the Eitzen Lions and the Caledonia Sno-Gophers. He lived every day to the fullest and loved his family and friends.

He is survived by his children and grandchildren, Alan (Joyce) Strub and children Rachel and Brad of Caledonia; Christine Strub and daughter Lauren of Madison, Wis.; Jennifer Strub of Minneapolis; Matt (Terri) Strub and children Madelyn and Jack of Caledonia; his siblings, Kathryn (Robert) Van Brocklin and Bob (Joan) Strub, both of Lansing, Iowa, Joan Downer of Strawberry Point, Iowa, Elaine (John) Burg of Caledonia, Ron (special friend Peggy) of Hemet, Calif., and Karen  Strub of La Crescent, Minn.; and special friend, Jan Scheidecker of Caledonia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 3 nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 am on Mon. Jan. 18, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia. Father Matt Fasnacht will officiate. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall, where a prayer service will be at 7 p.m. Visitation will also be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday morning at the church before the service.

Vivian C. Beneke, 93, of Eitzen, Minn., died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, at Gundersen Tweeten Care Center, Spring Grove, Minn.

She was born on April 10, 1922, to Gottfried and Minnie (Meyer) Loeffler. She was baptized at Peace Church in Crooked Creek and confirmed at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, New Albin in September of 1936.

On Aug. 10, 1944, she married Louis Beneke at St. Peter’s Church in New Albin, Iowa. Together they farmed at Churchtown, Iowa, and in Union City Township until her husband’s death in 1972. Vivian resided on the farm until 1989, when she moved to Eitzen.

She taught school and was lunch room manager in Dorchester, Iowa, for 28 years. Vivian was a member of St. Luke’s United Church of Christ in Eitzen, Minn., where she taught Sunday School and was Women’s Fellowship President. She was also a 4-H Leader. Vivian enjoyed reading, playing cards, crossword puzzles, and going to Senior Citizens.

Survivors include her son, Bradley (Andrea); granddaughters, Carla (Jeremiah) Andorf and Nicole (Chad) Kendall; step-grandsons, Ryan (Cheryl) Satterfield and Jared Satterfield; great-granddaughters, Madeline and Sophia Andorf, and Ellie, Bailey, and Brooklyn Kendall; and Carrie Beneke who was like a daughter to her; and Vivian’s former son-in-law, Bert Bateman.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Vivian was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda Bateman; her husband, parents; brothers, Donald (Joyce), Leander (Alice), and very dear friend, Walter Beneke.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Monday, Jan. 18, 2016, at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Eitzen. Pastor Michael McCann will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service Monday at the church.

Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Carolyn R. Meiners, 72, of Eitzen, Minn., died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, at Gundersen Tweeten Care Center, Spring Grove, Minn.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016, at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Eitzen. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., Wednesday, and from 10 a.m. until the time of service Thursday, both at the church. A complete obituary will follow. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Carolyn Rose Meiners, 72, of Eitzen, Minn., passed away Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, at Gundersen Tweeten Care Center, Spring Grove,  Minn.

She was born March 5, 1943, in Lamont, Iowa, to Burdette and Grace (Reth) Persson. On Sept. 11, 1960, Carolyn married LaVern Meiners at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Together they farmed in rural Eitzen. On Aug. 24, 1986, LaVern preceded Carolyn in death. She was an avid Minnesota Vikings Fan. Carolyn enjoyed playing cards, watching Days of Our Lives, RFD TV, decorating her house inside and out for the holidays, and flowers. Carolyn especially loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and spending time with them. The Family Fun Fest during the July 4th Holiday in Eitzen was always a special time for her family to gather at her house and watch the parade. She also sold Avon for over 35 years. Carolyn loved traveling and she visited all 50 states.

Survivors include three children, Carol (Tim) Schulte of Center Point, Iowa, Charlie Meiners of Eitzen, Minn., and Daniel (Joan) Meiners of Sun Prairie, Wis.; nine grandchildren, Joe Schulte, Jenny (Ryan) Graham, Jeff (Holly) Schulte, and Jeralynn Schulte, Vanessa and Autumn Meiners, Sammi Meiners, (fiancé, Richard Skaife), Meghan Meiners, and Kaycee Meiners; three great-grandchildren, Ella and Easton Graham, Blake Schulte, and one on the way.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Lorraine, in infancy; and her brother, Donald.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016, at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Eitzen. Rev. Michael McCann will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., Wednesday, and from 10 a.m. until the time of service Thursday, both at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Eitzen. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Giles George Manhart, 84, of Caledonia, died peacefully, Tues., January 19, 2016 at Caledonia Care and Rehab in Caledonia.

Giles was born September 22, 1931, in Caledonia to George and Isabella (Theisen) Manhart. He attended school in Caledonia. On February 22, 1931, he married Mary Ann Becker and they later divorced.

Giles was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America for 50 years, and he advanced to become a Millwright. He loved living on his farm outside of Caledonia.

He is survived by his four children, Greg Manhart, Gary Manhart, George Manhart and Susan (Manhart) Nicholas Manka; and 7 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mercedes Schieber.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 22, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia. Father Matt Fasnacht will officiate and burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Caledonia. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, at McCormick Funeral Home, 205 E. Main, Caledonia, where a rosary will be said at 7 p.m. and a prayer service will follow. Visitation will also be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church Friday morning before the service.

Online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.

Carol June (Erickson) Hahn, 87 of Houston, died Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at Green Lea Manor in Mabel.

Beloved mother, grandmother, step-grandmother, great-grandmother, step-great-grandmother and step-great-great-grandmother.

She was born on June 13, 1928 to Grant and Nina (Halverson) Erickson in Riceford, Minn.  Baptized in Riceford church and attended country school which she had to walk to. Later she attended Houston High School and graduated in 1946. She was confirmed at the Stone Church. On November 6, 1948, she married Wallace “Wally” Hahn.  They had eleven children, including 3 sets of twin boys.

Carol worked at Control Data in Spring Grove and Rush Products in Rushford. She enjoyed her family, quilting, sewing, baking, her flowers and her Yucatan friends and gardening.

She is survived by her children, Caryn (Butch) Kohnen, Barbara (Allen) Erickson, Marshall Hahn, Michael (Anita) Hahn, Rhonda (David) Betz, Darrel (Jeannie) Hahn, Linda (David) Hazelton, Gregory (Jill) Hahn, Gordon (Dolly Pertzch) Hahn, Duane Hahn and Scott Hahn; 23 grandchildren; 1 step-grandchild; 27 great-grandchildren; 5 step-great-grandchildren; 1 step-great-great-grandchild and a sister-in-law, Sonja Erickson and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, her parents-in-law, her brothers, Ellsworth & Richard “Dick” Erickson; son-in-law, Fred Roble; grandson, Robert Kohnen; sisters-in-law, Gloria Erickson, Audrey Walsh, Florence Gjere; brother-in-law, Calvin Hahn and nephew, Dale “Banjo” (Teresa) Erickson.

Memorial Service will be 11 a.m., Monday, January 25, 2016 at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church with the Reverend Leonard Liptack officiating. Visitation will be 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service, Houston is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please share a memory of Carol, sign her online guestbook and view her video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com.

Helen G. Frank, 95, of Caledonia,  Minn., passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2015 at Gundersen Tweeten Health Care Center in Spring Grove, Minn.

Helen was born October 3, 1920, in Mabel, Minn. to Helmer and Ida (Wermager) Ganrude. She moved to the Caledonia area where she attended school and graduated in 1938. After graduation, she began working for N.W. Bell Telephone Co. She held several positions there, telephone operator and chief operator, and she also worked in the commercial department. She married Henry Frank on June 27, 1946. In addition to spending their winters in Florida, they enjoyed dancing and traveling. Henry passed away July 21, 2012.

Survivors include two daughters, Mary (Richard) Leary of Caledonia and Carol (Tom) Klug of Racine, Wis.; seven grandchildren, Erin, David, Sarah, Jason, Jacob, Sarah and Leslie; 10 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Mark Sullivan; a son-in-law, Bill Sullivan; two sisters, Mildred Quarve and Alma Stafne;  two brothers, Odin and Leo Ganrude; and a nephew, Mark Ganrude.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Caledonia. Rev. Steven Meyer will officiate and burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Caledonia. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia is assisting the family and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net