Obituaries 09/14/23
John Deleski, 80
John Patrick Deleski, 80, began his final journey on August 24, 2023, at his home in Buffalo, MN. Born on November 3, 1942, in Alexandria, MN, John lived a life filled with laughter and joy.
Preceded in death by parents, John and Grayce Deleski; and, sister, Patti Jones.
John worked in the HVAC industry for Control Data and Siemens in the Twin Cities, retiring at the age of fifty-nine.
Since retiring, John committed his time to his love of the great outdoors when residing at his empire in Remer, MN. When in Buffalo, his cherished race car, Nellie. Whether he was casting a line, hunting for treasures, just soaking up nature’s beauty, or wrenching, he always found a way to make every moment an adventure.
John’s greatest triumph was not found in the woods—it was his family. He was a dedicated husband of 52 years to his beloved Becky Deleski and a devoted father to John (Wendy) Deleski, Dawn (Louie) Moritz, and Joe Deleski. Equally, John was a very proud grandfather to Karrigan, Maverick, London, Chase, and Tiffany. Brother to Jerry (Linda) Deleski, Zeke Deleski, MaryAnn (Rich) Sarvie, Jackie (Jack) Kerin, Nona Patrick and Eunice (Jim) Dee. Uncle to several nieces and nephews.
When he wasn’t exploring the wilderness or making memories with loved ones, John could be found spending quality time with his dearest dog, Sunny.
A true friend to all, John’s caring nature and infectious smile brightened the lives of those around him. He had a knack for lending a helping hand and offering sage advice, while interjecting a well-timed joke that would make even the grumpiest soul crack a smile.
Let us remember “Crappie” as the joker, the trail blazer, and the man who touched our lives with his warmth and wit. Though his physical presence may be gone, his essence will forever dance in our hearts, reminding us to embrace life’s struggles and triumphs with humility and grace.
May John Patrick Deleski’s legacy continue to shine bright, illuminating our lives with the sparkle of his mischievous grin. As he embarks on his grandest adventure yet, we bid him farewell with a smile, knowing that the life lessons he taught us will echo through us and our posterity forever.
A celebration of John’s life will be held to honor the joy he brought into our lives on Saturday, October 14, from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. at The Heights Bar & Grill in Buffalo, MN.
Allen Glessing, 77
Allen H. Glessing, age 77, of Waverly, passed away peacefully at his home on September 8, 2023.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo with Pastor Ryan Clark officiating. Visitation was held from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, September 11, 2023, at Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, as well as at the church one hour prior to the service.
Allen Henry Glessing was born on April 18, 1946, in Cokato, to Maurice and Eva (Dehnbostel) Glessing. He was baptized into the Christian faith at St. James Lutheran Church on May 12, 1946, by Rev. Theodore Melinat and confirmed in that faith on April 10, 1980, by Rev. G.C. Michael. Allen graduated from Howard Lake High School in 1964 and went on to work on the family farm in rural Howard Lake, only taking a short time away to enlist in the National Guard. He returned home and continued to farm with his father. On November 27, 1971, he was united in marriage to Sandy Meline, and this union was blessed by two children, Nicole and Daniel. Allen married Sharon (Bodin) Davidson on November 18, 1995. This union brought together two families and many years of happiness. Allen continued his farming with his son, only slowing down when years of hard work caught up with his body, but always supervising whenever he could.
Allen’s life focused on faith, family, and farming. From a young boy until the end of his life, God was at the center of Allen’s life. He served for many years as a St. James Lutheran Church trustee, as well as on the cemetery board. In recent years, he was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo, where he would leave at the end of the service with a happy heart. He would tell anyone who would listen that they should try attending a service “just once” to see if they liked it, which subsequently worked on many. Allen and Sharon could be found in ‘their’ pew well before the service started, ready to worship.
Allen’s family was the most important thing to him. He found the love of his life in Sharon and would tell everyone that he was lucky to have found her. They had a busy 27.5 years together, and their life included things such as trips to Branson to enjoy shows, local fish fries on Fridays during lent, relaxing on their deck, and taking “dirty rides” in their barn clothes after chores to check out crops and whatever other neighborhood news could be gathered from the seat on the Gator. Whatever they did, they enjoyed doing it as long as they were together. Allen was a great father to Dan and Nicole. In their youth, he allowed them to drive toy tractors on his back when it really was a back massage for him, would take a swim with them after chores in the stock tank he turned into a pool, and looked with pride as they became successful adults with families. Allen’s pride and joy were his grandchildren. He loved watching them in school/church programs or at sporting events, but especially loved watching them show animals at the county fair. In his younger years, Allen was an adult 4H Leader and later was the chair of the 4H Dairy Show Arena Committee, so was especially happy when each of his grandkids participated in 4H in the show ring that he helped build. He enjoyed watching the competition, visiting with friends in the stands, and grabbing a foot-long hot dog with all of the ‘junk’ as a snack. He was able to watch one last dairy show at the Wright County Fair this year, as he took his scooter from the nursing home, across the railroad tracks, and onto the fairgrounds. He was ready to go at 3 a.m., but unfortunately the staff wouldn’t let him leave quite that early. In his last weeks, he was also able to watch as his grandsons participated in the dairy show at the state fair and his granddaughter run for Princess Kay of the Milky Way, all via a live stream.
Allen was a farmer through and through. His favorite part was the view from the tractor seat where he had spent countless hours doing what he loved over the years. Even in his last days, he was counting the rows of kernels on an ear of corn, and tested a kernel with his teeth, just as he had done for 60 years. He was an avid Case IH fan and loved watching the red “smokers” beat the green ones at tractor pulls. He was also very involved with farming programs off the farm over the years having served on the Wright County Extension Committee, C&H Board of Directors, Glencoe Co-op Board, and as the Wright County Farm Bureau President, AMPI District President & Director, and a Lifetime Member of the FFA Alumni. He was also a charter member of the HLWW FFA Alumni, and recently attended his 59th consecutive FFA Awards Banquet.
Allen was honest and loyal with a side of sarcasm thrown in, and you always knew where you stood with him. His passing has left a hole in our hearts, and he will be missed dearly.
Allen is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; children, Nicole Hills, of Monticello, and Dan (Seena) Glessing, of Waverly; step-children, Rod Davidson, of Buffalo, Teri (Sean) Diercks, of Buffalo, and Kevin Davidson, of South Haven; grandchildren Katherine and Alex Hills, of Monticello, and Wyatt, Mason, Tanner, and Cora Glessing, of Waverly; step-grandchildren, Cami Davidson (special friend, Ryan), of Howard Lake, and Mandi Davidson (special friend, Josh), of Buffalo, Travis (Kayla) Fieber, of Buffalo, and Trent Davidson, of Hinckley; as well as five great-step-grandchildren; former wife, Sandy; many brothers- and sisters-in law, friends, and relatives.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Eva Glessing; in- laws, Elmer and Esther Meline, Clarence and Fern Bodin; and step-grandson, Taylor Fieber.
The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com.
Carol Ott, 85
Carol J. Ott, 85, of Maple Grove, MN, died Sunday September 3, 2023, at The Villas at Osseo in Osseo, MN. Carol was born on October 15, 1937, in Grand Rapids, MN. After graduating from Hill City High School in 1956, she moved to Minneapolis to work for Prudential. On April 23, 1960, she married the love of her life, Edwin F. Ott. Following their marriage, they made their home at Glen, later moving to Buffalo, and then Maple Grove. During their 50 years of marriage, they raised five children. In retirement, they moved to Lone Lake, near Aitkin, for many years before moving to Princeton. After the death of her husband in 2010, she moved to Maple Grove to be closer to her children.
She is survived by her five children, Brenda Ott, of Maple Grove, Nancy Monson, of Big Lake, Robert Ott, of Maple Grove, Kay Ott, of Otsego, and Leo (Rita) Ott, of Corcoran; four grandchildren, Tracy Monson, Eric Monson, Ryan Ott, and Allison Boateng; three great-grandchildren, Anthony Flowers Jr., Kayleigh Monson, and Natasha Monson; one sister, Betty Manginen, of Grand Rapids, MN; two nieces and five nephews; granddogs, Molly and Duke.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Geneva Washburn; her husband, Edwin F. Ott in 2010; her brother, Ernest Washburn Jr. in 1987; an infant sister in 1950; sister-in-law, Doris Gibeau; brothers-in-law, Carl Manginen and Maynard Jordan; one nephew and two nieces.
Mass of Christian Burial was 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 9100 93rd Ave. N., Brooklyn Park.
Evans-Nordby, 763-424-4000, www.evansnordby.com.
Lillian Schroeder
Lillian Mary Schroeder passed away at her Edina home on September 6, 2023. Lil was born in Buffalo, MN, and spent her formative years on her family’s farm. Lil met her husband, Arvid, during their time at Koinonians, an active youth group at Central Lutheran Church. Their connection with friends from this group remained strong throughout the years.
Professionally, Lil was a talented physical therapist, dedicating her skills to various healthcare institutions, including Fairview Hospital and the Southdale Physical Therapy Clinic. In 1999, she proudly established her own successful clinic. It was during her work that she met Sabine Buschatz from Germany, who quickly became not just a patient but a cherished friend, united by Lil’s German heritage. This bond led Lil to embark on numerous trips to Germany to visit Sabine and her family. Lil and Arvid shared a deep love for travel, having explored all fifty states, most of Canada, and an impressive thirty-five other countries. Their adventures enriched their lives in countless ways.
She had an enduring passion for tending her garden, which was adorned with a vibrant array of Hosta varieties. In addition, Lil was an avid collector of antique dolls. Her collection was a source of great joy and pride for her and was admired by all who had the privilege of seeing it.
In 1970, Lil and Arvid were fortunate to join Cross View Lutheran Church, which, at the time, was a mission congregation. Here, they found numerous opportunities for service. Lil dedicated over 25 years of her life as the chairman of the Altar Guild, served on the Fine Arts committee, and generously offered her expertise as a wedding consultant.
Lil was preceded in death by her parents, George and Lillie Bruska; and her brothers, Alvin and Theodore.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Arvid; her loving son, Justin (Nikki); and her cherished granddaughters, Vivian and Juliet. Additionally, she leaves behind her sister, Olga; sisters-in-law, Sheila Bruska and Dorothy Dornfeld; and nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at Cross View Lutheran Church, 6645 McCauley Trail West, Edina, on September 21 at 11 A.M., followed by a brunch at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, a cause close to Lil’s heart.
www.washburn-mcreavy.com, Edina Chapel, 952-920-3996.
Charles Skogman, 81
Charles H. Skogman, age 81 of Buffalo, MN, passed away August 31, 2023.
He was born on September 17, 1941, in Hennepin County, MN, the son of Harlan and Bernice (Peterson) Skogman.
Charles Skogman and Sandra Law were united in marriage, and they were blessed with seven children.
Charles honorably served his country in the US Air Force. His smile and his humor were loved and will be missed by all that knew him.
Preceded in death by parents, Harlan and Bernice (Peterson) Skogman; sisters, Sandra, Diana, Janice; brother, Roger; wife, Sandra Jane; daughters, Debbie and Lisa.
Survived by sisters, Judy and Laurie (Charles); children, Joanne (Steve), Dean (Cindy), Jodi (Paul), Dale (Lori) and Kristi (Jimmy); 18 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends.
Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service all at Park Terrace Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Inurnment with Military Honors will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo, MN assisted the family with funeral arrangements. On-line condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.
William TeKrony, 73
William “Bill” J. TeKrony, age 73, of Waverly, passed away Friday, September 1, 2023, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.
Celebration of Life, 2:00 P.M., Sunday, September 24, 2023, at the Johnson Funeral Home (141 E 1st St.) in Waconia.
William “Bill” James TeKrony was born January 3, 1950, in Castlewood, SD, the son of James and Mildred (Kluckman) TeKrony. He graduated from high school and continued his education at a college in Watertown, SD. On October 7, 1978, Bill was united in marriage to Cindi (Schwichtenberg) Jansen. Bill grew up in South Dakota. He worked as a Batchman with AVR and Model Stone. Bill also set cemetery markers and worked for Delano Granite Works.
In his free time, Bill was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed making furniture. He loved working with his hands and had every tool possible. His passion turned into his Furniture Medic business in Plano, TX, where they restored cabinets and furniture from loss by fire and water. Bill was also very creative, enjoyed tending to his garden, and delighted in traveling all over with Cindi, his grandchildren, and time spent with them brought him immense joy.
Bill was quick witted and had a dry sense of humor. He enjoyed kidding around and being silly. Bill loved to make people laugh, and his cheery disposition will be dearly missed.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mildred TeKrony; brother-in-law, Carl Matter; many aunts and uncles.
Bill is survived by his loving family, wife, Cindi; son, Rodney (Lindsay) Jansen, of Mound; daughter, Tonya (Randall “Max”) Whitton, of Waverly; grandchildren, Miranda (Coby) Blum, Axel Jansen, Dekker Jansen, Mallory Whitton, Brooke Whitton; great-grandchildren, Lilly Blum, Benson Blum; sister, Linda Matter; mother-in-law, Dorothy Stender, of Waconia; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Susan (Larry) Dressen, Greg (Linda) Schwichtenberg, Alan (Tina) Schwichtenberg, Tim (Marilee) Schwichtenberg, Laurie (Jack) Lysne, Randy (Amy) Stender; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, 952-442-2121, www.johnsonfh.com.
Jean Thibodeaux, 79
Jean Byron Thibodeaux, age 79, of Buffalo, and formerly of Fridley and Brooklyn Park, MN. Jean went into the arms of his beloved wife and daughter, “Topper” and Brenda on September 4, 2023, at 6:00 AM.
He was born in Minneapolis on February 4, 1944, the son of Jean B. and Clarice M. (Robbins) Thibodeaux.
Jean honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. He was a former detention Deputy at the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department. Jean practiced Martial Arts for twenty years. He enjoyed archery, beads, singing, and playing the guitar.
Survived by a son, Marc Jon (Misty) Thibodeaux; five grandsons, Stephen and Alexander Thibodeaux, Cullen, Noah and Ian Varhol; sisters, “Cookie,” “Nan,” and “Gay;” other relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by his loving wife, Margaret “Topper;” a daughter, Brenda J. Thibodeaux; siblings Shelly and Marc.
A Memorial service was held on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 1:00 P.M. at The Buffalo Evangelical Free Church, 2051 50th St. NE, Buffalo. A visitation was held at the funeral home, 119 Central Avenue, Buffalo, on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 5:00 - 8:00 P.M.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo, MN, assisted the family with funeral arrangements. On-line condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Dan Zitzloff, 78
Dan Edward Zitzloff passed away on September 9, 2023, at his home in Monticello, at the age of 78, with his wife by his side.
He was born on June 3, 1945, in Watertown, to Vernon and Esther Zitzloff. He had three siblings, Billy, Bobby and Linda. He attended Delano Public schools. His lifelong best friend was Ronnie Hessler. He was married on February 20, 1965, to Glenna Zitzloff (Moshier) for a total of 58 years. He owned a company, Dan’s Vintage Drywall and Construction, sharing his passion for the trade with his son and grandson. Hobbies were fishing, hunting and trap shooting with brother Bobby.
Dan and his wife were foster parents, active members of the church, often holding Bible study in their home. Dan was a passionate gardener, an amazing cook, a respected father figure for raising his grandson and great-grandson, donating/housing/feeding the homeless in need. He also loved old country music.
He is survived by his wife, Glenna; his children, Wendy, Keven, Kelly, and Shaun; grandchildren, Amber, Jordan, Will, Hannah, Aurora, Alex, Andrea, Austin, Justin, Tony, DJ, Riley, and Arianna; and great-grandchildren, Kennedie, Braunsen, Miles, Lauren, Kadyn, Za’Riyah, King, Prince, Neaveh, Baby Robert, Hevvyn’ly, Sophia, Adriann, Liam, Noah, Lexy, Noah, Adelynn, and Kendall.
He is preceded in death by both parents; and his brother, Billy.
There will be a service held in his honor on Saturday, October 7, at A Glorious church in Monticello, MN, at 1:00 p.m.