Phyllis Alberg, 89

Phyllis A. Alberg, age 89, passed away at St. Ben’s on March 4, 2025, in Monticello, MN.

Phyllis was born November 29, 1935, to Leland and Inez DeWell in Colo, Iowa.

Her fondest memories were growing up in Rochester, MN, with her siblings and attending Lourdes Catholic school.  Moving with her family to Cokato, MN, and starting her senior year of high school, she had met the love of her life, William J. Alberg.  At the end of her senior year, Bill was drafted into service during the Korean War. They were united in marriage at the Army base Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. Together, they raised a family of five children in Maple Lake, MN.  

In much appreciation, Phyllis had excellent sewing, knitting, and crocheting skills. Making several dresses, short outfits, PJ’s, doll clothes, mittens, and scarves for her family.

After Bill’s passing, Phyllis had spent several years living in Arizona.

Phyllis is survived by three daughters, Rhonda (Bruce), Susie (Kevin), and Michelle (Herb); son-in-law, Murray; seven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; sister, Judy (Warren); niece Carla; along with several nephews and nieces; and three sisters-in-law; other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, William; son, John; daughter Debra; two grandchildren; son-in-law; her parents; and three brothers.

A special thank you to St. Ben’s Memory Care staff and Centra Care Hospice for the amazing care of our mother.

Inurnment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.

A Memorial Mass will be held in her honor.

The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Bernard Aldrich, 75 

July 21, 1949– February 23, 2025

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Bernard “Bernie” Aldrich on February 23, 2025, at the age of 75. Born July 21, 1949, in rural Buffalo, Minnesota, he was raised on a dairy farm where he developed a strong work ethic, devotion to family and friendship, and appreciation for nature.

Bernie was a successful businessman who held various high-profile positions and ultimately achieved the distinction of becoming an experienced President, CEO, and board member of multiple organizations. He prioritized honesty, openness, and fairness and respected people, regardless of what position they held or where they were from.

He had a knack for inserting himself into your life whether you wanted him to or not. But, with that wide Bernie smile and pep in his step that exuded confidence and positivity, how could one not want him around. He was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He got to know everyone on a personal level and made everyone feel important.

Bernie’s happiest place was with and supporting his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Cindy, of over 50 years. He made it a priority to be present in his children and grandchildren’s lives, whether it be attending sporting events, time at the cabin, or bringing donuts in the morning and driving them to school.

His journey on this earth was one marked by love and compassion. Giving back was extremely important to him, which is evident in that he created scholarships for people in need, donated to multiple causes which he was passionate about, and selflessly donated his body to the University of Minnesota Medical School to further education and research.

Bernie is survived by his wife, Cindy; son, Aaron (Molly) Aldrich; daughter, Sara (Ben) Taylor; grandchildren, Lucy, Max, Evan, and Haddie; siblings, Larry Aldrich, Anne (Joe) Dudley, Joan Aldrich, and Julie Linnihan; sister-in-law, Cathy Murphy; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Aileen Aldrich.

A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held on March 18, 2025, at Bearpath Golf and Country Club from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dunwoody College of Technology or the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Bonnie Berger, 72

Bonnie Jean Berger, of Buffalo, age 72, passed away peacefully at her home on March 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Bonnie was the second of 11 children born to Jerome and Kathleen Glunz at the Buffalo Hospital on February 14, 1953. She spent most of her childhood growing up in the country west of Buffalo where she helped to raise her 10 siblings.  As a young girl, she attended a one room country schoolhouse and graduated from Buffalo HS in 1971.  Soon after high school, she joined the workforce and spent 27 years at Liberty Carton Company in Golden Valley. She went on to manage the deli at Cub Foods for several years prior to retirement where she became a full-time grandma.   

 In January of 1977, Bonnie married Hal Berger and spent 48 wonderful years together. They eventually purchased a home just east of Buffalo where they raised two daughters, Lisa and Krista.  

Bonnie was a force of nature. The woman rarely sat still and was always on the go working, helping, and creating. Her childhood growing up on the farm instilled an incredible work ethic in her. Bonnie was a woman of her word and was devoted and loyal to those that she loved. She loved gardening, fishing, sewing, and spending time at the Brevik Homestead. She valued friendships established over the years, especially her “Blue Haired Blisters.”  Bonnie’s greatest joys were her grandchildren, Emily, Billy, and Addie.  

Bonnie is survived by her loving husband, Hal; her children, Lisa (Mark) Gardner, Krista (Erik) Kern; and beloved cat, Harvey; siblings, Margie Peterson, Sandy (Chuck) Davidson, Bob (Barb) Glunz, Jim (Cindy) Glunz, Johnny (Kim) Glunz, Dana (Rick) Meyer; and brothers-in-law, Al Huikko, John Berger; her grandchildren, Emily Kern, Billy (Jordyn) Gardner, Addie Kern; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended Brevik family.

Proceeded in death by her parents, Jerome and Kathleen Glunz; siblings, Monica Glunz, Jerry Glunz, Debbie Huikko, Fred Glunz; brother-in-law, Ed Peterson; sisters-in-law, Carol Kline and Grace VanGeest; and nephews, Jerry Huikko and Derek Jost.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Bonnie Jean Berger will be held on Thursday, March 13, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo. A visitation will be held AT THE CHURCH on Thursday, March 13, one hour prior to Mass.

The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Dennis Groth, 79

Dennis “Stubby” Groth, age 79, of Maple Lake, died Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Annandale Care Center.

Memorial Services were held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Maple Lake with visitation two hours prior to the service. Rev. Culynn Curtis officiated. Burial followed at Maple Lake Community Cemetery.

Dennis Arthur Groth was born on July 7, 1945, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Friedrich and Jennie (Russell) Groth. He grew up in Robbinsdale and was a 1963 graduate of Robbinsdale High School. Denny then attended the Minneapolis School of Art. On February 10, 1967, Denny married Marilyn Ann Palmquist at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Robbinsdale. They made their home and began their family in Brooklyn Park, while Denny worked as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. In 1974, they moved to Maple Lake where Denny worked in law enforcement for the Wright County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff for 23 years.

With an enduring love of the outdoors, Denny was an avid fisherman and pheasant hunter. He shared countless cherished moments with family and his fishing buddy, Marlow. Together, they were the “Grumpy Old Men.” Denny played ball all his life, especially fastpitch softball. He later served as an umpire for the women’s softball league. Later in life, he enjoyed watching his grandchildren excel in their many sports and activities.

In the quiet moments, he enjoyed reading, with a particular fondness for Louis L’Amour westerns. Denny’s involvement in the Maple Lake Community Theater also displayed his vibrant spirit, as he embraced the opportunity to connect with others through the arts. He brought a lot of happiness to this world with his humor, good nature, and endless story telling.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Marilyn, of Maple Lake; children, Derek (Barbara) Growth, of Annandale, Natalie (Brian) Weigel, of Eagan, Peter (Bette) Growth, of Elk River, and Matthew (Alicia) Growth, of Montrose; nine grandchildren, Hannah (Brent) Lundquist, Christopher (Rachel) Groth, Jennah Groth, Dylan (Hannah) Weigel, Dalton Weigel (fiancée, Sophia Castle), Xavier Groth, Gabriel Groth, Emma Groth, and Franklin Groth; great-grandchild, Lucille Jo Groth; and many nieces, nephews, cousins; the Palmquist crew, and other family members and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Marvin and Esther Palmquist; brother, David (Joanne) Groth; sister, Judith Young; niece, Julie Peters; and brother-in-law, Daniel Brunette.

Denny’s children served as urn bearers. Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.

Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.

Kenneth Jensen, 95

Kenneth R. Jensen, age 95, of Monticello, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025. Ken was born on May 12, 1929, to Adolph and Blanche (Coffin) Jensen in Big Lake, Minnesota. At the age of seven, his father and mother moved across the river to Monticello. He graduated from Monticello High School in 1947.

On December 10, 1947, he married Elaine Hansen who passed away November 8, 2008. He worked construction jobs before being a farm helper for his brothers, Fred and Bud.

In 1955, was able to purchase his own dairy/crop farm. It was a dairy/crop farm. He thoroughly loved his dairy cows. After a few years, he sold the herd and for a little over three years, he worked for Hoffman Engineering. Another herd of cows was being built up during this time. Eventually, this herd was sold, and he then entered into a hog operation with his son, Ron. When this operation ended, he worked for Progress Castings Group as a finisher. He retired from there at the age of 69. He worked various jobs between Progress Castings Group and Walmart. His final working days were at the Walmart Center in Monticello. He began as a greeter and finished working in the bakery at the age of 82.

He married Lucy Jensen Miller on July 11, 2009. Ken enjoyed helping people. If a need arose to snow plow or help was needed for planting/harvesting, he was there. He opened his home so that people who were in need of housing could have a place to stay. He enjoyed his garden and sharing the fruits produced from it. He had a very strong work ethic. God allowed him a long life. His faith in the blood of Christ to redeem his soul was important to him. 

Ken was preceded in death by his first wife, Elaine; grandson, Jason; granddaughter, Heather; daughter-in-law, Elaine; son, Ron; his great-granddaughter, Katie Beth Skrabanek; and siblings, Fred, Hazel, Helen, Mildred, Eva, LeRoy, and Dorothy.

He is survived by his wife, Lucy (nee Jensen) Jensen; children, Kathy (Steve) Nelson, Jackie (Bob) Rassat, Linn (Tina) Jensen, Leah Allen; step-children, Kris (Tim) Murray, David (Tracey) Warren, Kathy Warren, LuAnn Lanz, Abner (Carol) Miller; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren; step-great-grandchildren; a step-great-great-grandchild; and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Tri-County Alliance Church, 8464 160th St. NW, Clearwater, MN. Visitation will be one hour prior to service at church. A luncheon will follow the service at church. Interment will take place in the spring at Riverside Cemetery in Monticello. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred in Ken’s name to Tri-Alliance Church or to the donor’s choice.  

Arrangements entrusted to Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Chapel ~ Monticello, 763-295-2918, www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com.

Arlyn Koecher, 85

Arlyn Koecher, age 85, of Otsego, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025.

Arlyn Chester Koecher was born on September 26, 1939, to Chester and Alice (Strehler) Koecher on the family farm in Greenfield, MN. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hanover, MN, where he was baptized and confirmed. He attended country school one-half mile from his home and was a graduate of Rockford High School. He married the love of his life Katherine (Kathy) Giese in 1961, and by coincidence, their confirmation verse happened to be the same – Psalm 37:5. They were blessed with three children, Kevin, Darcey, and Steven. Arlyn farmed with his dad until the dairy cows were sold in the early 1980s, and the tillable land was rented out. Arlyn then got his first job off the farm at AK Auto in Corcoran, MN. Afterwards, he went on to work as an equipment operator at Greenworks Tree Farm for many years. He then went on to work at Truman Welters in Buffalo, MN, delivering farm equipment. Arlyn wound down his career helping his good, lifelong friend, Ron Daluge, with his lawn mowing service. At the age of 22, Arlyn began playing his accordion with a group called The Toppers, consisting of his cousin, Darwin Koecher, and Tim Dalbec. He later played with The Blazers, Ambush, and, most recently, The Mellow Knights, where they entertained primarily at nursing homes. Some of his favorite things to do included playing Euchre, 500, and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He added joy to many with his easy smile, humor, and fun-loving nature.

Arlyn is preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Alice; his sister, Vernita Oestreich; brother-in-law, Willard Oestreich; parents-in-law, Waldemar and Caroline Giese; and brother-in-law, Virgil Wagner.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; children, Kevin (Donna) Koecher, Darcey (Kevin) Karst, and Steven (Lara) Koecher; seven grandchildren, Tammy (Matt) Frischmon, Jenny (Noel) Clary, Alyssa (Ben) Diestelmeier, David Koecher, Jacob (Lindsey) Karst, Kelly Karst, and Daniel (Mari) Koecher; nine great-grandchildren, Leah, Michael, and Kendall Frischmon, Gabriel, Ariadne, and Kinsley Diestelmeier, Lydia and Nora Koecher, and Arlyn Clary; sisters-in-law, Edie Wagner, Fern Boyer, and Leah Wandersee; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Funeral Services for Arlyn Koecher will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hanover. Pastor Luke Schmidt will officiate.

Interment will follow at St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery in Hanover.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 13, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. AT THE CHURCH. Further visitation will be held on Friday morning, March 14, one hour prior to services.

Casket Bearers will be Daniel Koecher, David Koecher, Jacob Karst, Matt Frischmon, Ben Diestelmeier, and Noel Clary.

The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Rodger Loberg, 83

Rodger Arvin Loberg passed away on March 2, 2025. He was 83 years old. Rodger was born February 28, 1942, to Orville and Leah (Schmidt) Loberg in Minneapolis, MN. He grew up in the rural area outside Buffalo, MN, where he hunted, fished, farmed, and played hard. He graduated from Buffalo High School in 1960. He then served honorably in the US Army for four years. At the end of his service, he met the love of his life on a blind date, Bonita (Button) Poisson, and they were married in October of 1966.   

They settled near St. Michael, MN, and he began a successful construction business. They had two children while in Minnesota. In 1974, he moved the family to Montana to be in the log home building business. He and Button remained in Montana living in Bozeman, Stevensville, and then Hamilton. While in Montana he went from log home building to investment/insurance broker. After both of their girls had left home, he and Button enjoyed numerous travelling adventures all over the United States. In 1998, they moved down to Denver to be near their daughter and family.   

In 2002, they moved down to Las Vegas to be near their other daughter. This is when he finally had his dream job. He was a starter at Silverstone Golf Course. He biked to work every day and enjoyed free golf, both there and all over the city. He also built and regripped golf clubs. It truly was his most enjoyable occupation.  

In 2011, they moved up to Spokane, WA, to retire and be near their daughter’s family again. Sadly, his health took a big hit shortly after moving up there. He suffered a severe stroke in 2012, which impaired his ability to talk, walk, and swallow. This was followed by several hospitalizations for injuries that generally occurred because of a fall. Despite all the setbacks, he remained as busy as he could be, and had a scooter that could take him most any place, even areas in which he would get stuck. He was feisty to the end. His wife and two daughters were at his side as he passed away with hospice on March 2, 2025. He had just turned 83 years old. 

Rodger was first and foremost a Christian. He loved and trusted Jesus his whole life, and he was ready to go home eternally. His home church was the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church. He served as both an elder and a leader in churches wherever he lived. He also modeled Jesus in his daily life. Cursing for him was saying “dingbat.” He was an excellent role model to his children and grandchildren. All of them know Jesus. 

The greatest love of his life was his wife, Button. They were married for 58 years. Even in the last few years of his life, her birthday, their anniversary, and Christmas were the most important days for him to make sure he did something she would enjoy. They enjoyed traveling, camping, and gardening. Zion Park was their favorite destination, and they had their own camp spot every time. 

Rodger is survived by his wife, Button; his eldest daughter, Richelle (Bari) Abuhadema; his youngest daughter, Kari Jones; grandchildren, Sara Brenner, John Brenner (Hally), Aaron Jones, and Kelsey (Caleb) Powers; and one great-granddaughter, Isabelle (Izzy).

There will be a celebration of life with all his survivors and other friends over the July 4th weekend in Spokane.

Gordon Pribyl, 97

Gordon Ellsworth Pribyl, age 97, of Maple Lake, MN, passed away on March 7, 2025, at the Park View Care Center in Buffalo.

Gordon was born July 16, 1927, in Maple Lake Township, to Edwin and Eldora (Anderson) Pribyl. He attended country school near Maple Lake. As a child, he spent time tinkering in his own little workshop, learning to build and fix things. He also grew up helping his parents with their farm.

Gordon met Lavone Olson in Silver Creek, where the two of them often enjoyed dances and music at Hasty and Waverly. They were united in marriage on October 28, 1950, in Buffalo. They made their home on the family farm in rural Maple Lake. Throughout the years, they raised a variety of crops and animals. Gordon had a real love for farming and taking care of the land. They sold eggs for many years to neighbors and the Maple Lake Café.

In 1952, Gordon was drafted into the US Army, where he served in the 101st Airborne Division, during the Korean conflict. He worked as a mechanic on tanks and other military vehicles, while stationed in Fort Sheridan and Fort Knox, and for one year in Reykjavik, Iceland.

In 1954, after military service, Gordon returned home to his farm and began helping his father run his dairy farm operations. Gordon and Lavone had one daughter, Faye. Over the years, he enjoyed being in his workshop where he fixed machinery, did welding, and many metal-working projects. There was nothing he couldn’t fix, and he had an engineer’s mind. He continued crop farming until his retirement in 2007 but still enjoyed working on tractors and taking them out for a spin.

Gordon is survived by his daughter, Faye (David) Vorgert, of Monticello; granddaughter, Kara (Tim) Patton, of Sauk Rapids; and great-grandsons, Jake and Paul.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Lavone; his parents; and brother, Marvin Pribyl.

Special thanks to the staff at Park Terrace Assisted Living in Buffalo for their wonderful care and kindness during Gordon’s residence there.

Arrangements were made by the Minnesota Cremation Society. A private service for family will be held at a later date.

Gary Rebischke, 75

Gary Herman Rebischke, age 75, of Buffalo, passed away on February 28, 2025. He was born on November 6, 1949, in Minneapolis, MN, to Herman and Edna (Hanson) Rebischke.

Gary grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Roosevelt High School with the class of 1967. He went on to further his education at Dunwoody College of Technology, earning his Certification in Tool and Die making. He was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving as a medical corpsman during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1971.

In 1973, Gary married the love of his life, Wanda Morinville, and, together, they enjoyed many years of love and adventure. They were blessed with four children. 

Gary had a mind for innovation and founded Premier Tool Products, Inc. in Rockford, MN. His creativity and expertise led to the development of new inventions, including a patented sink strainer. He was always tinkering, designing, and fixing—there was nothing he couldn’t repair or improve. In 2021, he retired to spend more time with family and friends. 

An outdoorsman at heart, Gary found joy in camping, fishing, four-wheeling, and snowmobiling all over Minnesota. He loved to travel; his inquisitive nature brought many adventurers that were off the beaten path. Known for his quick wit and “dad jokes,” he brought laughter to every gathering and was always up for a good time. His generous heart and willingness to help others defined who he was—he would do anything for his family and friends. The best was yet to come when he became a Papa. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and enjoyed the memories created with them. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Edna; brother, Donald; nephews, Ryan Melby, Paul Melby, and Jay Rogalla; and brothers-in-law, Alden Morinville and Steven Morinville.

Survived by his wife, Wanda; children, Chad, Cari, Derek, and Sara (Max); grandchildren, Tanner, Madison, Emerson, Cole, Parker, Brennen, Bryce, and Westen; brother, Dennis (Joyce); many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. 

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. with visitation one hour prior at the Buffalo Presbyterian Church, 507 County Road 134, Buffalo, MN 55313. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Celebration of Life

RuthAnn Rolfzen

RuthAnn (Salonek) Rolfzen, formerly Berthiaume, from Menahga, formerly of Park Rapids and Buffalo, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 24, at the age of 77. A gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 29, from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. at the Montrose Community Center at 200 Center Ave. S, Montrose, MN 55363.