Donald Martell, of Farmington, Minnesota, formerly of Caledonia, went home to be with the Lord Jan. 11, 2015. He is survived by daughters Nancy (John) Poston, Rapid City, South Dakota and Michelle (Giovanni) Jakoby, Farmington, Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his wife Sharon, daughter Teresa, his parents and five brothers.

Olive Marjorie Engen, age 86, of Mabel, Minnesota, died Friday, January 16, 2015, at Tweeten Healthcare in Spring Grove, Minnesota.

Marge was born on December 12, 1928, the daughter of Ernest and Dorthea (Rise) Hagen in a home in Mabel, Minnesota. She was baptized and confirmed at Scheie Lutheran Church in rural Mabel. She grew up north of Mabel where her parents owned and operated the Tawney store and that is where she developed her sweet tooth. Her children and grandchildren loved to hear her stories of growing up there. She attended the Tawny Country School District 9 through 8th grade. She graduated from Mabel High School in 1946 as one of the top students in her class. During her years in school, she was the editor of the Wildcat Yearbook, on the newspaper staff, a class officer, in various thespian groups and was a member of numerous musical ensembles. After graduation, she went on to become the school secretary of Mabel High School.

Margie loved to dance and met her future husband, Arne O.K Engen at a firemen’s dance at Matter’s Ballroom in Decorah, Iowa. They were married in a double wedding ceremony with classmate, Evelyn Narum, and Arne’s friend, Odell Johnson, on August 31, 1948. They spent all of their married life in Mabel. Early in their marriage they owned and operated Engen Grocery for a short time. Her number one priority was to be a loving wife and mother, exhibiting patience and sacrifice for her family. The door to their home was always open to anyone including those who were alone on holidays. She enjoyed gardening, canning and cooking delicious meals for her family who gathered at the table nightly.

Marge continued to use her secretarial skills, working side by side with her husband and later her son, Jeff, as secretary/bookkeeper of Engen Construction Company for 40-plus years.

Marge was a member of Mabel First Lutheran Church, Ladies Aide, Lydia Circle and also a member of the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary.  She volunteered as a Gray Lady at Green Lea Manor Nursing Home, used her secretarial skills at the blood mobile and was a Cub Scout leader. After their children were grown, Marge and Arne took up golf and during that time she got two holes-in-one. Marge enjoyed weekly golf outings withher friends where she also played cards and shook dice. She and Arne wintered in Texas for 30 years, where they enjoyed warm weather, golfing, and meeting new friends. An important part of Marge’s daily routine was walking.  In her later years, she loved spending time with family, sharing snacks of Cheetos, chocolate and root-beer, watching the game show and the food networks, listening to music, reading daily devotions and going for rides in the car. One of the traits her grandchildren loved most about her was her sense of humor and making her laugh.

Marge is survived by her three children, Jeffrey (Susan) Engen,  Spring Grove; Peggy (Craig) Martin, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin; and Wendy (Fred) Hauser, Appleton, Wisconsin; nine grandchildren, Peter (Grace) Engen, La Crosse, Wisconsin; Emily (Dominic) Ricci, Denver, Colorado; Leah (Ben) Koehler, Dubuque, Iowa; Travis Martin, Nashville, Tennesee; Tyler Martin, Minneapolis; Bethany Martin, Boiling Springs, North Carolina; Hilary (Joshua) Dummer, Onalaska, Wisconsin; Jordan Hauser, New York, New York; and Jens Hauser, Chicago, Illinois; seven great-grandchildren, Athen Engen Viner, Ivy and Maya Engen, Fletcher Ricci, Dexter Koehler, Isabela Waters and Olivana Dummer; brother, Everett (Doris) Hagen; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arne, on September 29, 2013; her parents; and sister, Verna Erickson.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 24 at Mabel First Lutheran Church in Mabel.  Burial will be in the Mabel Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, January 23 at the Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel and one hour prior to the services at the church. The family prefers that the memorials be designated to the Arne & Marge Engen Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Mabel-Canton High School in Mabel.

Lorraine J. Steffen, 86, of Caledonia, passed away Friday, January 23, 2015.

Lorraine was born August 10, 1928 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Joseph and Stanislawa (Bambenek) Andrysiak. Her family moved to Winona when she was at the age of five, where she attended the Cathedral and St. Stan’s Catholic Schools. She graduated from St. Teresa’s College in Winona. Lorraine married Bill Steffen September 4, 1950 at St. Stan’s in Winona. Bill preceded her in death May 27, 1982. Bill and Lorraine moved to Cleveland for Bill to attend mortuary school. They moved to Caledonia, then to Jackson, Minnesota and back to Caledonia where Bill purchased Blaschke Funeral Home. Lorraine worked at Steffen Furniture Store and was active with the funeral home after Bill’s death until her retirement in 1986.

She enjoyed card club with her friends, traveling and reading and the company of her grandchildren.

She is survived by three children, Joseph (Marlene) Steffen, Louisville, Kentucky; Sue (Pat) Tice, Woodbury, Minnesota; and Mary Steffen, Rochester; and four grandsons, Ethan and Kyle Steffen, Will Tice and Robert Sheehan.

In addition to her husband, Bill, she was preceded in death by her parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 28, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia. Father Matt Fasnacht will officiate and burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Caledonia. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Holy Family Hall, next to the church, where a rosary will be said at 4 p.m. and a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be from 9:30 to 10:20 a.m. Wednesday before the service at the hall. Memorials may be given to St. Mary’s School, Caledonia. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.

Ronald E. Rober, 81, of Dorchester, Iowa, died Monday, January 26, 2015, at his home.

He was born June 21, 1933, in Waukon, Iowa, to Erwin and Lulu (Fruechte) Rober. Ronald was baptized and confirmed at St. Luke’s U.C.C. in Eitzen, Minnesota, where he was lifelong member and served on the council. After graduating from Waukon High School in 1951, he farmed for two years. In 1953, Ronald was drafted into the United States Army and spent two years at Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas, and was honorably discharged in 1955. He then went back to farming on Golden Ridge until retiring in 2005. For several years, Ronald measured land for the feed grain program and also worked at Deter’s Implement off and on for two years. On June 5, 1960, Ronald married Delores Johnson of rural Ossian, Iowa, at First Lutheran Church, and they were married for 54 years. In addition to farming, he enjoyed fishing, playing organ and accordion for his own enjoyment and watching TV.

Survivors include his wife Delores of Dorchester; his children, Gary, Dorchester; Denise (Richard) Janechek, Cresco, Iowa, and twins, Darlene (Bob) Blong, Owatonna, Minnesota, and Daryl (Janice) Rober, Asbury, Iowa; nine grandchildren, Donald, Brian, Michelle, and DeAnn Janechek, Larissa and Mikayla Blong, and Nicholas, Alaina, and Emily Rober; one brother, Norlin (Audrey) Rober, Marshalltown, Iowa; one nephew, Paul Rober, Marshalltown; and one niece, Aline Rober, Maynard, Massachusetts.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will be at 12 noon, Saturday, January 31, 2015, at St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Eitzen. Pastor Michael McCann will officiate. Following the service, military honors will be rendered in the church by the United States Army Funeral Honor Guard. Burial will be in the church cemetery at a later date. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service Saturday 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.

Bonnie Webb, 71, formerly of Monroe, Wisconsin, and Fairmont, Minnesota, died Thursday, January 29, 2015, at Caledonia Care and Rehab from complications of a fall.

She was born October 26, 1943, in Champaign, Illinois, to Harold and Betty (Chesnut) Striemer. On December 10, 1961, she married Harold Holtz, Jr., and they later divorced. Harold passed away on February 16, 2004. On December 22, 2002, Bonnie married Arthur “Boots” Webb and he preceded her in death on December 11, 2005. Bonnie lived her life to the fullest. She enjoyed charity activities always giving a helping hand. Bonnie would do anything to help out a member of the family or a friend in need.

Survivors include two daughters, Robin (Len) Pieper, Caledonia and Tracy Herbst and her son, (Bonnie’s grandson), Brady Wallert, Medford, Minnesota; Bonnie’s mother, Betty Striemer, Fairmont, Minnesoita; one brother, Doug (Deanna) Striemer, Fairmont; and two sisters, Ruth (Brent) Clover, Fairmont and Kathy Burgstrand of Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

In addition to her first and second husbands, Bonnie was preceded in death by her father, Harold Striemer; and her two four legged companions, Greta and Squeaky.

In accordance with Bonnie’s wishes, her body will be cremated and a private family gathering will be held at a later date. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

George J. Hammell, lately of Lansing, Iowa, formerly of rural Caledonia, Minnesota, died this morning, Monday, February 2, 2015. Today was his 93rd birthday.

A complete obituary will soon follow.

George J. Hammell, of rural Caledonia, Minnesota died peacefully at Thornton Heights Assisted Living in Lansing, Iowa on February 2, 2015, his 93rd birthday.

He was born in rural New Albin, Iowa to George and Elizabeth Hammell on February 2, 1922 (2-2-22). He was married on June 19, 1947, to Mary E. Manning who passed away on January 12, 2008.

George was a life-long farmer in the New Albin, Iowa area and was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. George served on the Jefferson Township Board in Houston County for many years, was a fire warden and served as a weather observer for the U.S. Weather Service.  George’s family and community were very important to him.

George is survived by five daughters, Margaret (Tim) Nordwig, Watertown, Wisconsin; Anna (Gary) Meiners, Caledonia, Minnesota; Phyllis  Yarber, Columbia, Illinois; Theresa (Gene) Ostert,  Green Bay, Wisconsin; and Donna (A.K.) Kinard, Darien, Wisconsin; three sons, Pat (Nancy) Hammell, West Bend, Wisconsin; Joe (Diana) Hammell, Caledonia, and Ed (Jan) Hammell, Caledonia; 25 grandchildren, Jamie, Jared, Abe, Jed, Luke, Katrina, Mark, Brian, Megan, Nick, Bethanie, Tom, Paul, Ben, Matt, David, Laura, Katie, Michael, Courtney, Allison, Niki, Jesse, Jeremy and Tiffany; 18 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Larry (Wilma) Hammell and Jim (Ila) Hammell; four sisters, Alberta Troendle, Sister Georgia Hammell, Pauline Blaskowski and Esther Walleser; and in-laws, Mary Manning and Jim and Kay Manning.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Earl, and a sister, Anna Collins; in-laws, Joe Troendle, Ernest Blaskowski, Eleanor Hammell, Lawrence Walleser, Robert Collins, Harold and Evelyn Manning, Joe and Marguerite Manning, George Manning, Leo and Dorothy Manning, Marcella and Leo Mullarkey; and sons-in-law Larry Yarber and Jeff Littlejohn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, February 6 at St. Joseph’s Church in New Albin. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 5 at the New Albin Community Center and also one hour prior to services at the church.  Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Marjorie Poppe, 93, of Houston, Minnesota, died Monday February 2, 2015.  She was born January 11, 1922, in Houston, the third daughter of Amiel (Emil) and Jorand (Hostvet) Thronson. She graduated from Houston High Schoolin 1940, a member of the first graduating class of the new red brick school in the middle of town After graduation, she worked at area establishments including Dyer’s Variety Store. On March 2, 1946 Marjorie was united in marriage to Vincent Poppe celebrating their wedding day with her cousin Doris Johnson who married Donald George on the same day. They were attendants for each other and shared a special bond throughout their lives. Margie and Vince were active partners in the farming operation west of Houston.  They shared a love for dancing and enjoyed their time polka and square dancing throughout the region. Many Hoedown parades were spent showing off their skills performing on separate floats for each dance specialty.  Marjorie was active in the Ladies Aid of Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, Houston Music Mothers and as a 4-H leader. She served when called.  She began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant when her youngest daughter began school.  She worked at Valley View Nursing Home for nearly three decades.  When she retired, she and Vince took bus trips to see the U.S.A.  She lived her life in Houston and had an outstanding memory for past and current events, locations of friends and relatives, and businesses throughout her years living in her hometown.  She always kept in close contact with her three sisters and “baby” brother Daniel. When Vincent died in 1998, her sister Lylah and husband Harold moved to Houston. She and Lylah became constant companions. Along with their older sister Audrey and younger sister Norma, they were once again in close proximity and able to enjoy time together as the Thronson girls. Since September 2014 she lived in the Good Shepherd Lutheran Home in Rushford, staying in a room down the hall from Lylah. Marjorie was a genuinely nice person and was always polite. Over the past few days she very graciously greeted visitors and was so thankful for the opportunity to say good-bye to many friends and relatives.

Marjorie is survived by her children, Sharon (Joel) Schulze, Charles (Diana) Poppe, Jeanne Poppe (Bob Vilt), Sandra (Kevin) Dixon; her grandchildren, Tyler (Lori) Schulze, Emily Boesen, Carter (Michelle) Schulze, Krin (Tarik) Kamel, Krist (Kate) Poppe, Kjersta Poppe, Lydia Vilt, Casey Vilt, Skyler Vilt, Sophia Dixon, Cole Dixon; her great-grandchildren, Julia, Claire and Graham Schulze, Vincent and Audrey Schulze, Hadley Boesen, Odin, Omar, Hazel and Malcolm Kamel, Eleanor and Henry Poppe. She is also survived by her sisters Lylah Cruze, Rushford, and Norma Muenkel, Kasson and her sister-in-law Vera Jones, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Vincent Poppe on February 13, 1998, her daughter Dianne Poppe on December 05, 2011, her sister Audrey Engrav, brothers Daniel Thronson and Donald Thronson.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, February 7, 2015, at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston, with Pastor Kristin Rice officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour before the service on Saturday. Interment will be in the Stone Church cemetery, rural Houston, immediately following the funeral service.  Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.  Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.hofffuneral.com.

Kevin “Katter” L. Steele, 50, of Caledonia, died Saturday, January 31, 2015, at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse. He was born May 25, 1964, in Caledonia, to Wayne and Emily (Lampert) Steele. Kevin married Nancy Cannon and together they had a son, Wylie, but later divorced. After spending over 20 years with the love of his life, Tamiko Hubka, they were married June 27, 2014, and together they had a daughter, Georgina. Kevin enjoyed golfing, mushroom hunting, riding his dune buggy, playing cards, and he was a big Minnesota Viking fan. He loved spending time in the outdoors and vegetable gardening.

In addition  to his wife, son, and daughter, Kevin is survived by his two four legged sons, Grizz and Polar; his mother, Emily (Charles) Wiste of Spring Grove, Minn.; one brother, Greg Steele of Caledonia; two sisters, Tami (Mark) Klinski and Pam (Kevin) Haas, both of Caledonia; one sister-in-law, Nancy Steele of Caledonia; one step-sister, Andrea Vinson (Chuck Deeney) of New Albin, Iowa; one step-brother, Tony (Sarah) Wiste of Sheldon, Minn; nieces and nephews; great nieces and great nephews;  step nieces; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Kevin Was preceded in death by his father, Wayne; and one brother, Curt.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Saturday, February 7, 2015, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Caledonia, with a service and time of remembrance at 2 p.m. Rev. Steven E. Meyer will officiate. 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.

Lois Beverly Schutz, 87, of Arcadia, Wisconsin died Wednesday, February 11, 2015, at Grand View Care Center, Blair, Wisconsin.

Lois was born November 24, 1927 in Kindred, North Dakota, to Benjamin and Louella (Thoen) Steele. Lois married James Schutz on September 16, 1947 in Caledonia. James died March 21, 1988. She worked in the housekeeping department of Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Arcadia until her retirement at age 70.

She is survived by her children, Ronald (Judy), Buffalo City, Wisconsin; Linda (Marvin) Papenfuss, New Berlin, Wisconsin; Robert (Tammy) Rice Lake, Wisconsin; Dennis (Marilyn), Fountain City, Wisconsin; Steven (Laurie Weinberg) River Falls, Wisconsin; and James Jr., Arcadia; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a brother, William Steele, Caledonia.

In addition to her husband, James, she was preceded in death by sisters, Julia Ann Bakke and Doris Pinzone; and brothers, Merle and Wayne Steele.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, February 14, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Caledonia. Rev. Steven Meyer will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Caledonia. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at the church Saturday morning. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia is assisting the family and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.

Lowell Earl Paul Schauble, 78, entered into an eternal rest Friday, February 6, 2015.

He was born December 10, 1936, in Caledonia, Minnesota, and resided in Kenner, Louisiana.

After leaving the family farm in Minnesota, he actively served in the U.S. Army, being stationed in Alaska and Louisiana. After marriage, he resided in Kenner, where he worked for Delta Airlines for over 30 years.

He enjoyed camping, family trips, get-togethers with friends and family and one of his greatest passions, sweets! A devout Christian, he attended New Vision Church and enjoyed the fellowship and worshiping of our Lord.

He is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Schauble; children, Lori and Kyle (Kim) Schauble; grandchildren, Amanda (Jon) Rathunde, Matthew (Natalie) Reuter, Seth and Emma Schauble; great-grandchildren, Carter and Grace Rathunde; his sisters, Marilyn (Milton) Ellenz and Carol (Floyd) Kuecker; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Verna Schauble; and sister, Geraldine.

A memorial service was held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 10, at New Vision Church, St. Rose, Louisiana. Paster Mark Joslin and Paster Miles Victor officiated.

In lieu of flowers, any donations may be given to the family.

Douglas “Bulldog” K. Moen, 65, of Caledonia, passed away peacefully at home Sunday, February 15, 2015.

He was born November 17, 1949, in Spring Grove, Minnesota, to Forrest and Alice (Robertson) Moen. Doug graduated from Houston High School, Houston, Minnesota, and then attended Winona State University graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He was a veteran of the United States Army having served as a field medic during Vietnam. On August 17, 1974, Doug married Janice Mullenbach in Winona. Doug was employed as an auditor of the Minnesota state college system, Houston County auditor, and city clerk/treasurer for the city of Hokah. He also owned and operated Elmer’s Supper Club in rural Caledonia with his wife, Janice for 17 years.

Doug enjoyed outdoor activities such as four wheeling, spending time on the river and cruising the back roads. He also loved playing cards and he was an avid NASCAR fan.

Survivors include his wife, Janice, of Caledonia; his daughter, Teri (Chad) Staggemeyer, Rockford, Minnesota; his curious and energetic grandson, Isaac; and his canine companions, Buddy and Benny; two brothers, Phil, Houston and Richard (Cheryl), La Crescent; two nieces and three nephews; and his mother-in-law, Dorothy Mullenbach, Rochester, Minnesota.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jean; his brother, Brian; his father-in-law, Edmond Mullenbach; and some close friends.

A visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2015, at Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Home, 518 W. Main St., Caledonia. Military honors will be rendered at 5 p.m. by the Loveless Eikens American Legion Post 191 of Caledonia and the United States Army Funeral Honor Guard. Following the visitation, a celebration of life will continue until 8 p.m. at The Back 40 Supper Club in Caledonia. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Kevin (Wedge) Colsch celebrated his 38th birthday on January 31, 2015, but was called to his eternal home on Sunday, February 15, 2015 in Caledonia, Minnesota.

Kevin was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Edward Colsch, Jr. and Colleen (Hayes, Colsch) Stellner. Kevin graduated from Caledonia High School in 1995 and was presently employed by Fastenal in Caledonia. Kevin had a love for all his many friends, music, video games and was an avid air drummer.

He is survived by his mother, Colleen Stellner and her husband, Ed Stellner, of Onalaska, Wisconsin; a brother, Jamie (Colene) Colsch, Caledonia and their children, Braeden, Brielle and Brynne; two step-sisters, Bridget (Eric) Peterson, West Salem, Wisconsin and their children, Samantha and Drew; and Karla Northrup of La Crescent, Minnesota and her children, Isaac and Lincoln.  Kevin is further survived by his step-grandfather, Clarence Stellner.  He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and his dog, Peanut. Kevin had many great friends who were like family to him.

Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Edward “Lug” Colsch, Jr.; paternal grandparents, Edward and Evelyn Colsch; maternal grandparents, Patrick and Ardelle Hayes; and step-grandmother, Marlene Stellner.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held  at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 19 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Brownsville, Minnesota. Visitation will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m. before the mass at the church. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life following Mass at the Brownsville Community Center. A private interment will be in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Freeburg, Minnesota, at a later date.

McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.

Irma B. Diersen, 84, of Caledonia, Minnesota, died Friday, February 20, 2015, at Gundersen Tweeten Care Center, Spring Grove, Minnesota.

A visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., Sunday, February 22, 2015, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 650 N. Kingston St., Caledonia. In accordance with Irma’s wishes her body will be cremated and a memorial service will be held in the coming weeks and will be announced by Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, (Caledonia Chapel). In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church and/or school, Caledonia. A complete obituary will follow. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Irma B. Diersen, 84, of Caledonia, died Friday, February 20, 2015, at Gundersen Tweeten Care Center, Spring Grove, Minnesota.

She was born July 2, 1930, in Dorchester, Iowa, Allamakee County, to Lewis and Mathilda (Meyer) Ranzenberger. On May 15, 1949, she married Marvin Diersen in Caledonia. Marvin and Irma farmed the family farm on Jefferson Ridge until 1982, when they retired and moved to Caledonia. On  Aug. 30, 2003, Marvin preceded Irma in death. Irma worked for many years at Caledonia Care and Rehab in several positions until she retired in 1994. She was a member of St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Caledonia and Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in Eitzen, Minnesota and was active in several church groups.

Survivors include five children, Linda Diersen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Lola (Dale) Werner; Bonita (Richard) Giesler; and David (Sharon) Diersen, all of Caledonia; and Mary (Rick) Beardmore, New Albin, Iowa; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Irma was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, Brandon; son-in-law, Herbert Colsch; four sisters; and four brothers.

A visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., Sunday, February 22, 2015, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 650 N. Kingston St., Caledonia. In accordance with Irma’s wishes, her body will then be cremated and a memorial service will be held in the coming weeks and will be announced by Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Home and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel. A private family burial will be at a later date at the Zion Ev. Lutheran Cemetery in Eitzen. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church and/or School. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Reginald “Reggie” Dyer Olson, age 85, of Mankato, Minnesota, died on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Oaklawn Health Care Center.

Reginald was born on July 26, 1929 in Mabel, Minnesota to Oscar and Evelyn (Welch) Olson. On January 25, 1953, Reggie was united in marriage to Elaine Kroneman in Mason City, Iowa. Reggie worked for Dahlen Transport for 39 years. He was a member of the Teamsters Union, Loyal Order of the Moose and St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church. Reggie loved country music and western movies. He also enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Branson, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

Reggie is survived by his wife, Elaine of Mankato; four daughters, Diane (Brian) Hennis of Mankato and their two sons, Chad (Stacy) of California, Jeremy (Courtney) of Shakopee and their daughters, Cathryn and Natylie, Karen (Tom) Baker of Madison Lake and their daughters, Brooke and fiancé, Tim Schmitz of Eden Prairie and Kayla and fiancé Travis Braun of LeCenter, Donna (Jeff) Burgess of North Mankato and their son, Joe, LeAnn (Dennis) Werner of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and their children, Morgan, Noah, and Kylie; siblings, Juanita Michaelson, Dave (Marion) Olson, and Lolita (Glen) St. Mary all of Caledonia, Cheryl Pluhar of Sparks, Nevada, and Chuck (Janet) Olson of Sophia, North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Francis Olson and Maxine Tingesdahl.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 26 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in North Mankato with Rev. Gary Wong officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Memorials are preferred to Mayo Clinic Health System Hospice.

Cora Grace Meyer and Belle Faith Meyer, infant twin daughters of Dustin and Rachel (Meiners) Meyer, passed away Monday, February 23, 2015, and Wednesday, February 25, 2015, respectively.

Funeral services will be on a later date and will be private. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.jandtfredrickson.com.

Elizabeth M. “Liz” Von Arx passed away Tuesday, February 24, at Caledonia Care and Rehab Center.

She was born on April 12, 1927, to Theodore and Madelle (Taylor) Fregin. She attended St. John’s Grade School and graduated from Aquinas High School.

She married George A. Von Arx on April 19, 1949. They lived in Caledonia, where she worked as a legal secretary for William Von Arx. She was known for her gardening, sewing and cooking. Liz enjoyed fishing, winemaking and traveling, visiting Israel, England, Switzerland, New York and going on several cruises.

She is survived by her children, Victoria (Albin Zak) Von Arx, Niskayuna New York; Deborah (Roger Lacher) Von Arx, Winona Minnesota; George (Nancy) Von Arx, Holmen Wisconsin; Ellen Von Arx-Roland, Winona; Michael Von Arx, Prior Lake Minnesota; grandchildren, Jessie (Paul) Howe, Lisa (Rod) Hudson, James Waters, John Waters, Aaron (Karrie) Lacher, Kevin (Britt) Von Arx, Elsa Lacher and Mike Von Arx; great-grandchildren Katie and Tom Howe, Sam, Gabe and Skyler Waters and Colette Lacher; sisters, Frannie (Francis) Von Arx, Hokah, Minnsota; Theodora “Teddy” Von Arx, Caledonia; and V. Susan Sanford, Northport Alabama; sisters-in-law, Betty Von Arx, Rita Von Arx, Marguerite Sheehan, Delores Benz, Rita Hayes; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband, George, who passed away in 1986; a son, Anthony “Tony” Von Arx; her daughter-in-law, Carol Von Arx; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard Sanford, Alfred (Evelyn) Von Arx, Otto (Marge) Von Arx, Paul Von Arx, Bernice (Don) Cavanaugh, Walter Von Arx, Les Sheehan, Jake (Jean) Von Arx, Helen (Bill) Hoskins, Joe (Phyllis) Von Arx, Don Benz, Bill Hayes and William Von Arx.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with burial in Calvary Cemetery, both in Caledonia. Father Matt Fasnacht will officiate. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church. McCormick Funeral Home is assisting the family and online condolences maybe given at mccormickfuneralhome.net

The family requests memorials for St. Mary’s School.

Merlin “Slim” G. Dehning, 85, of Caledonia, Minnesota, died Thursday, February 26, 2015, at Caledonia Care and Rehab.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Monday, March 2, 2015, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, Caledonia. Burial with military honors will follow in Wilmington Lutheran Cemetery, Wilmington Township, Houston County, Minn. A visitation will be from 2 until 5 p.m., Sunday and from 10 a.m., until the time of service Monday, both at the church. A complete obituary will follow. Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Caledonia Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Eugene Joseph Stemper, 82, of Caledonia, Minnesota passed away peacefully on the morning of February 27, 2015.

Eugene was born May 24, 1932 to John and Marie (Hurley) Stemper. He attended Loretto High School in Caledonia. Eugene served in the United States Army from 1956-1958; stationed with NATO forces in Germany. After returning from military service, Eugene was united in marriage with Saverna (Sis) Scheckel on October 14, 1961 in Springbrook, Iowa.

Eugene was a lifelong farmer and community member in Caledonia. He was deeply devoted to his faith, family, farm, and community, all in which he took great pride. He found much enjoyment in fishing with family at nearby fishing holes and summer trips to the lake. Most of all he enjoyed gatherings with family and friends at the farm or anywhere around a good campfire.

He is survived lovingly by his wife Saverna, seven children and 15 grandchildren, Al (Laurie), Alisha, Abbey, and Emily of  St. Cloud, Minnesota; Mary of Marshfield, Wisconsin; Rich (Holly), Emmit and Mitchell of Decorah, Iowa; David (Jill), Aaron, Erik, and Anne of Caledonia; John, Haylie (Zach) Carlson, Reese, and Curtis of Byron, Minnesota; Jim (Kate), Harley and Alex of Caledonia; and Joe (Kris), Ben and Colin of Caledonia.

Eugene is further survived by his sisters, Jo Ann (Harlan) Ingvalson of Caledonia; Sister Joyce Stemper, OSF of St. Paul; Mariette (Phil) Vieth of Hastings, Minnesota; Jackie (Robert) Pitel of La Crescent, Minnesota; brother, Larry of Caledonia; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James; mother and father-in-law, Florian and Olga Scheckel; brother-in-law, Mahlon Scheckel; sister-in-law Leanna Kilburg; and brother in-law, Ardell Schmidt.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia, on Monday, March 2, 2015 at 10:30 with Father Matt Fasnacht officiating. Burial with military rites will follow in Calvary Cemetary. Visitation will be Sunday, March 1, 2015 at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall from 4 pm to 7 pm with prayer service at 6:00 pm and also on Monday at 9:30 am in the church gathering space. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences maybe given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.

Rest in peace good and faithful servant.