Obituaries 02/08/24
Marvin Dirkswager, 91
Marvin F. Dirkswager, age 91, of Silver Creek Township died on Friday, February 2, 2024, at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
Memorial Services will 3:00 p.m., Friday, February 9, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Silver Creek Township with visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Ken Tatkenhorst will officiate. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Clearwater.
Marvin Francis Dirkzwager was born April 9, 1932, at a cabin on Mink Lake in Corinna Township near Maple Lake to John and Margaret (Butler) Dirkzwager. Marvin graduated from Maple Lake High School with the Class of 1950. Shortly after high school, he changed the spelling of his last name from Dirkzwager to Dirkswager. Marvin was drafted in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He served primarily in Germany with the Military Police.
Marvin was married to Marlene Walters; they were blessed with a son and were later divorced. On March 28, 1964, he was united in marriage to Dorothy Bonine in Watertown, South Dakota; they were blessed with two daughters and a son.
Marvin lived his entire life in rural Maple Lake. He purchased a farm in Silver Creek Township, where he lived his entire adult life. He took great pride in planting, harvesting, and tending to the animals. He embraced the serenity and fulfillment that farming offered him.
In addition to working the farm that he called home, Marvin worked for over 20 years at Electric Storage Battery in Minneapolis until the plant closed in 1978. He then worked for numerous employers, including Pinkerton, TC Plastic, Silver Creek Township, Osowski Apple Orchard, Northwest General Services, Lange Underground Construction, C&W Spinning Inc., Monticello County Club, Action Plus Temp. Services, All Season’s Resorts, and Sunny Fresh Foods Inc.
Marvin was a passionate outdoorsman who found joy in spending time in nature. Fishing and hunting expeditions became his cherished pastimes, allowing him to connect with the beauty of the natural world. He had an eye for unique treasures, often exploring auctions, flee markets, and garage sales, continuously on the hunt for the perfect addition to his cherished brass collection. Marvin’s love for cars led him to be a “backyard mechanic” where he enjoyed working on old vehicles and small engines.
Marvin will forever be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering commitment to family, and his love for farming and the great outdoors. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his soul find eternal peace.
He is survived by his children, Mark Dirkswager (Karen Wilson), of Leon, IA, Marcia Dirkswager, of Maple Lake, and Marilyn Dirkswager (Mark Luedtke), of Monticello; step-children, Rosemary Heinecke and Shirley Hickman; five grandchildren, Mark and Matthew Michaelis, Jeremiah and Jericho Erickson, and Thomas Dirkswager; six great-grandchildren, Leo, Aaron, Jace, Allie, Sienna, and Vanessa; many step-grandchildren; many step-great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret Dirkzwager; wife, Dorothy Dirkswager; son, Marshall Dirkswager; stepchildren, Sam and Stanley Heinecke; grandchild, Marty Michaelis; and sister, Lois Carlson.
Marvin’s grandchildren will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Service Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com
Muriel Foehringer, 95
Muriel Yvonne Foehringer, age 95, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on January 31, 2024, at Sunrise of Edina.
Muriel was born the daughter of Gustave and Minnie (Gunderson) Peterson on April 2, 1928, in Orrock Township, Sherburne County, MN.
She attended and graduated from Becker High School in 1945. Muriel worked for 40 years as a legal secretary for the International Multi Foods Corp. She was able to raise her two children, and raise them well, in South Minneapolis as a widow after her first husband George passed away in a railroad accident.
Muriel loved her home in Buffalo and would always open it up for a family reunion every summer for nineteen years. She and George loved to travel and had many adventures together.
Muriel is survived by her children, Cathryn Timmers and Gregory (Loretta) Danicich; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Doug) McBride, Amanda (Drew) Retterath and Matthew (Brianna) Danicich; great-grandson, Beau Retterath; step-children, Karen (Jim) Schooley and Mark Foehringer; step grandchildren, Colin (Jillian) Schooley and Sarah (Mike) VanDerGeest; step-great-grandchildren, Addy and Beckett Schooley, Essa and Noah VanDerGeest; brother, Duane Peterson; also nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Preceded in death by her parents, Gustave and Minnie; husband, George Danicich in 1952; husband, George Foehringer in 2022; sister, Ardis Steensgard; son-in-law, Gregory Timmers.
Muriel’s family would like to thank the Homewatch CareGivers of St. Cloud, MN, for the love and care shown to her while at home.
Funeral service for Muriel will be held Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service, all at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Officiating will be Pastor Dean Brown.
Interment to follow the service at the Orrock Community Cemetery in Orrock Township, MN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Disabled American Veterans or the Diabetes Association.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Susan Fuller-Ward, 73
Susan Lee Fuller-Ward, age 73, died January 25, 2024, in Teacapán, Mexico, surrounded by her husband and her dear friends.
Sue was born on August 10, 1950, to Russell and Al Jean (Lemke) Fuller. She was blessed with five brothers. Sue grew up in Maple Lake and graduated with the Class of 1968. Shortly after high school, Sue began her career at General Mills. She was proud to work for the same company for 38 years until her retirement in 2005.
Sue’s life was blessed beyond measure. On December 2, 1973, her first child, David Eric Schmitz was born. Stacy Jean would follow three years later. Sue worked her tail off for these kids. She taught her children faith, love, compassion, forgiveness, strength, and independence. Sue married the love of her life, John Ward, in 2009. They lived in Buffalo and have been wintering in Teacapán, Mexico for 20 years.
Sue’s grandchildren, Eric and Grace came into this world in 2003 and 2006. They quickly became her everything. Sue had room for additional grandmotherly love when her stepsons brought their children into her life. Eric, Grace, Landon, Hailey, Emma, Landon, Aubree, and Brynlee were all blessed with Grandma Sue’s love. There was not one thing she wouldn’t have done for any one of them.
Sue had many wonderful friends in her life, but The Blue Haired Blisters, they were her ride or dies. This group of ladies and their husbands would gather a few times per year. Lack of laughter was never an issue when they were together.
Sue enjoyed the outdoors. In her younger years, hunted and fished with the best of them. Never afraid to get her hands dirty. Her other passions included love and laughter, taking care of others, talking on the phone, attending her grandchildren’s activities, shopping, garage sales, and so many more. Her heart will genuinely be missed!
Susan will forever be missed by her loving husband, John Ward; daughter, Stacy Schmitz; sons, Scott (Megan) Ward, Lucas Ward; grandchildren, Eric (Anna), Grace, Landon, Hailey, Emma, Landon, Aubree, and Brynlee; brothers, Stan (Terri) Fuller, Kevin (Nancy) Fuller; sisters-in-law, Chris Fuller, Kay Fuller, and Rachelle Fuller.
Welcoming her with open arms up in heaven will be her son, David Eric Schmitz; parents, Russell and Al Jean Fuller; brothers, Bruce, David, and Brad Fuller, Thomas and Kate Ward; grandparents, Albert and Evangeline Lemke, Harold and Martha Fuller.
A Memorial Service for Susan Lee Fuller-Ward was held on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at 1:00 P.M. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Buffalo. Pastor Ryan Clark officiated. Penny Steele was the organist.
Inurnment Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery in Middleville Township, Wright County.
A visitation was held AT THE CHURCH on Tuesday, February 6, from 11:00 A.M. until time of services.
Service was livestreamed via the link: https://www.youtube.com/c/stjohnsbuffalo
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Jeffrey Harff, 62
Jeffrey “Jeff” Loren Harff, age 62, of Monticello, MN, passed away February 5, 2024.
He was born on November 3, 1961, in Buffalo, MN, to Loren and Carol Harff. He was baptized and confirmed at Salem Lutheran Church in Greenfield, MN, a place where his faith journey began and where he remained a faithful member throughout his life. Jeff’s early years were marked by his education at Rockford High School, where he graduated with the class of 1980.
He was employed at Meiny’s Excavating for many years and most recently Veolia Water Technologies in Monticello, MN.
Jeff was a man of quiet strength and a friendly disposition. While his words may have been few, his actions spoke volumes. One of his many talents included his culinary skills, particularly his famous grilled pork chops. They were often the highlight of small gatherings, whether they were celebrating graduations or enjoying casual work parties.
He is preceded in death by his companion, Clarice Schleif.
Jeff is survived by his parents, Loren and Carol Harff; sister, Renee (Gary) Lieder; nieces, Sarah (Ted) Schmidt and Laura Lieder; nephew, Derek (Lindsey) Lieder; four great-nieces; and two great-nephews; and many other relatives and friends.
Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 10, 2024, at The Peterson Chapel in St. Michael-Albertville. Visitation will begin at 1:00 P.M. and a brief service will start at 3:30 P.M. Private family inurnment will follow.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Dennis Haven, 85
Dennis Lee Haven, 85, of Astor, Florida, and Grand Rapids, Minnesota, died January 17, 2024.
Denny was a policeman for 42 years, mainly with the Minneapolis Police Department as the K9 Commander. He and his family lived in Montrose for many years before retiring.
He leaves behind his wife, Sue Frase Haven; children, Kim (Brian) Jans, Buffalo, Tracy (Mike) Hinkemeyer, Monticello, Cindy (Jim) Marston, Buffalo, Denise (Mark) Holthaus, Buffalo, Tony Haven, Montrose; stepsons, Aaron (Colleen Healy) Frase, St. Paul, and Adam (Maggie Jones) tenBensel Frase, Westminster, Maryland; also 23 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 1 p.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Walker, Minnesota; burial at 9:45 a.m., Sunday, March 3, at St. Mary’s of Czestochowa, Delano, Minnesota.
Visit www.beyersfuneralhome.com for a video memory of Denny’s amazing life.
Dixie Hozempa, 76
Dixie L. Hozempa, age 76, of Buffalo, died surrounded by the love of her family during the early morning hours of Tuesday, January 30, 2024, in Buffalo.
A private committal service will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Monticello.
Dixie Louise Dahlin was born on May 1, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Raymond and Margaret (Walker) Dahlin. She graduated from Edison High School in NE Minneapolis with the Class of 1965. She continued her education at North Hennepin Community College. A compassionate and dedicated paraprofessional, Dixie spent her career in the field of education, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless students and co-workers in the Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose School District.
On May 7, 1966, Dixie was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart Donald Hozempa at Holy Cross Catholic Church in NE Minneapolis. As a devoted wife and loving mother of three, Dixie raised her children passing on her knowledge and values, including endless talks with her daughter and sharing many memorable moments with her sons. Dixie cherished being a grandma and gave her grandchildren memories they will hold dear to their hearts forever, including individual “grandma days.” Dixie and her first granddaughter shared a birthday, a gift they both treasured. Dixie stated many times, “She was the best birthday present!” Her vibrant spirit will live on through her children and grandchildren.
Over the years, Dixie had many interests. She went on many adventures and traveled the world with her mother and close friends. She delighted in decorating their home, gardening, writing, reading, pottery, shopping, lunches with friends, puzzles, and she especially enjoyed happy hour with the neighbors, the “Driveway Dwellers.”
Dixie will be remembered for her warm smile, laughter, and infectious personality that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Most of all, Dixie will be remembered for her endless love of family and friends.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Don Hozempa, of Buffalo; children, Kelly (Jim) Seestrom, of Big Lake, James Hozempa, of Monticello, and Michael S. Hozempa (Emily Lubke), of Albertville; grandchildren, Samantha Seestrom, Taylor Seestrom, and Zachary Hozempa; honorary grandchild, Bryson Beach; loving sister, Sandra (Robert) Budnick, of Green Valley, AZ; sister-in-law, Patricia (Richard) Klaers; best friends, Joyce and Ray Korblick; and many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Margaret Dahlin, and stepfather, Carl Johnson.
Obituary, Guestbook, and Video Tribute online at www.dingmannfuneral.com
Robert Jude, 78
Robert “Bob” Jude, age 78, of Maple Lake, died suddenly on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at his home of natural causes.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, February 10, 2024, at St. Timothy Catholic Church, Maple Lake with Fr. Kevin Magner as Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Timothy Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday and from 9:00-10:00 a.m. on Saturday, both at the Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Maple Lake. A prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Memorials are preferred to the St. Timothy Endowment Fund.
Robert James Jude was born on May 28, 1945, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to Donald and Margaret (Kotilinek) Jude. Bob grew up on the Jude family farm and was a lifelong Maple Lake resident. He attended school at St. Timothy Catholic School and Maple Lake High School. After school, Bob farmed alongside his father, until being united in marriage to Helen Otto on August 28, 1965, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Delano. Shortly after their marriage, Bob and Helen purchased a farm west of Maple Lake. They made the farm their home, where they raised their four children.
Bob was a dedicated farmer, passionately working in the agriculture industry throughout his life. Guided by his unwavering work ethic, he tended to his land and his animals with love and commitment. His love for farming extended beyond the fields; it was the roots of his existence, nurturing not only crops but also the values he instilled in his family. In addition to farming, Bob also worked in sewer construction as a member of the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 563. He worked for over 30 years with C.S. McCrossan out of Maple Grove, retiring as a foreman.
Bob’s devout faith was of utmost importance to him, and his caring nature shone through in his love and compassion for his family. He was a lifelong member of St. Timothy Catholic Church, where he was baptized, received First Communion, and was confirmed. He gave of his time through various organizations, such as Wright County Pork Producers, grilling more than 10,000 pork chops per year. He also served as an Albion Township Supervisor.
Aside from toiling on the farm, Bob found joy in various activities that brought him closer to his loved ones and the nature he cherished. Whether it was bowling, dancing, snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, gardening, or simply taking a crop tour, Bob embraced life’s vibrant moments and created countless cherished memories. Bob was a dedicated fan who enthusiastically cheered on the Minnesota Vikings, Twins, and Gophers. Bob also enjoyed a good western movie and a kettle of popcorn and spending quality time with his family.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Helen, of Maple Lake; children, Robert E. “Bobby” (Karen) Jude, of Maple Lake, Rebecca “Becky” (Tim) Pribyl, of Clearwater, William “Bill” Jude, of Buffalo, and Brent (Lisa) Jude, of Maple Lake; grandchildren, Adam and Eric Jude, Jill (Dennis) Wittrock, John (Claire) Pribyl, Tyler (Katelyn) Jude Brandon Jude (girlfriend, Torri), Bradley “Red” Jude, and Allie Jude; great-grandchildren, James, Annie, Oliver, and Waylon; sister, Marilyn (Steve) Fobbe; sister-in-law, Judy (Len) Kaseman; brothers-in-law, James (Karen) Otto, Richard (Seda) Otto, Edward (Wendy) Otto, and Robert (Carole) Otto; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Margaret; grandparents, Joseph and Mary Jude and Walter and Mary Kotilinek; brothers, Douglas and Kenneth (Myrna) Jude; and godparents, Bob and Betty Stuhr.
Bob’s grandsons and grandson-in-law will serve as casket bearers. His granddaughters will serve as gift bearers. Krista Elsenpeter and Shannon Paumen will provide music for the service. 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
Steven LaFave, 76
Steven James LaFave (Steve), age 76, passed away surrounded by family at Fairview U of M Medical Center on January 10, 2024. He was born on August 21, 1947, in Minneapolis, the son of James and Dorothy (Omen) LaFave.
After graduating from Mound Westonka High School, he served with the US Army in Germany and later in the US Army Reserves. In 1973, he married June (Grahn) LaFave to whom he was married to for 50 years until his death. He worked and served as a custodian for 40 years in the Mound Westonka School District until his retirement in 2012. After retiring, he spent his days working on his hobby farm and enjoying time with his family and many beloved animals.
In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his sister, Mary Ann Johnson.
Surviving, in addition to his wife, June (Grahn) LaFave, are his son, Clint LaFave and his wife, Josie LaFave; daughters, Michelle (Dolly) LaFave and Angela Cossette; and grandchildren, Allison and Kacey Cossette.
A visitation will begin at 10 A.M. with a service of remembrance held at 11 A.M. Monday, February 19, at Zion Lutheran Church, 1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo MN 55313. A light lunch will follow.
William Larson, 73
William “Bill” Larson, age 73, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on February 2, 2024.
Bill was a 1968 graduate of Washburn High School in Minneapolis, MN. He went on to study Business at Mankato State University in Mankato, MN. While his work life was important to him, spending time on Lake Charlotte or coaching youth hockey brought him greater enjoyment.
In 1995, Bill was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and spent close to 29 years battling his disease. Through everything, he never lost the ability to tell bad Dad jokes, his love of candy, and his great smile and laughter.
Loving father and Papa, he is survived by daughter, Kathy (Jason) Campfield and son, Chris (Allyson) Larson; grandchildren, TJ, Bailey, and Webb; and wonderful caregiver/companion, Bonnie Mattson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rholan and Ruth Larson; and brother, Mark Larson.
Funeral services for Bill will be held on Friday, February 9, at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior to the service all at The Peterson Chapel, 119 Central Avenue, Buffalo, MN.
Private family interment at the Benson City Cemetery in Benson, MN will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Bill’s honor to the nationalmssociety.org
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Greg Valli, 53
Greg R. Valli, age 53, of Buffalo, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024, at his residence.
He was born at the Buffalo Hospital on November 2, 1970, the son of Gilbert and Marilyn (Miller) Valli.
As a young man, he attended Montrose Elementary and St. Francis Schools. He graduated from Buffalo High School in 1989.
Greg worked in construction most of his life and belonged to The Laborers Union #563.
Survived by his children, Reina Valli, age 18, and Miko Valli, age 17; his mother, Marilyn Tompkins; sisters, Mari (Dick) Moy, Leann (Troy) Lenz, and Vicki (Suresh) Dubay; a brother, Rick (Twila) Valli; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and by many friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert Valli; step-father, Richard Tompkins; and by his favorite dog, “Rue.”
A Memorial Service for Greg Valli will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at The United Methodist Church in Montrose. Celebration of Life to follow the service at the Buffalo Heights Golf Course.
Inurnment Kreidler Cemetery
Visitation AT THE CHURCH on Saturday, February 17, one hour prior to services.
The family encourages those attending the services for Greg to wear golf attire and to bring photos and bring their best stories of him.
The Peterson Chapel Buffalo in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Timothy Walsh, 57
Timothy Mark Walsh, of Maple Lake, formerly from Monticello and Albertville, went to his mother’s arms in Heaven on January 26, 2024. He was born the eldest of three children to Roger and Judy Walsh on March 15, 1966, in Hopkins MN.
Tim worked at Perkins in Monticello for 30 years. He enjoyed traveling, fixing puzzles, pro wrestling, playing games, and collecting lapel buttons, t-shirts, and hats.
Survived by father, Roger; sister, Sheryl (Richard) Quenenmoen; brother, Richard (Jennifer) Walsh; nieces, nephews; and 31-year caregiver, Marlys Melton.
Preceded in death by beloved mother, Judy; stepmother, Mary; grandparents, uncles and aunts.
A celebration of Tim’s life will be at St. Henry’s Catholic Church, 7001 7th Street East, Monticello, on March 2, 2024. Visitation 10 a.m., service 11 a.m., luncheon following.
Thomas Wright, 50
Thomas William Wright, age 50 of Buffalo, MN, passed away January 31, 2024. He was born on March 13, 1973, in Watertown, MN, to parents Dennis and Penelope (Zora) Wright.
Tom grew up in Waverly, MN, with his family. Following his graduation from Howard Lake-Waverly High School in 1992, Tom attended the occupational skills program at Central Lakes College in Brainerd and then moved with his parents to Perham, Minnesota. While living in Perham, Tom enjoyed his jobs at the Barrel of Fun chip factory, Perham Linen, and he especially enjoyed working at the Perham Stockyards. As an avid sports fan, you could find him many evenings keeping stats for the local baseball and basketball teams.
In 2008, Tom moved to Buffalo, Minnesota, and took a job as a cart attendant at Target; a position he held until his death. For many in Buffalo, Tom was the friendly face at Target who brightened their shopping experience. His warm greetings and genuine smiles turned routine errands into memorable moments. Countless customers attested that Tom was their favorite part of the shopping day; a testament to the lasting impression he left on the community.
Tom had a gift for never forgetting a name or a face, so with your first meeting you were now his friend, and from then on you would be greeted by name. He had a knack for making everyone feel special. Every one of his thousands of Facebook friends would get a shout out on his Facebook page for their birthday, ending the greeting with his trademark “Woooooo!” His Facebook posts brightened everyone’s day. Tom began most posts with an announcement of what day it was, from “Manic Monday” to “Flair Friday;” every day had a joyful Tom designated moniker.
Tom lived life without limits. A lover of road trips, rock concerts, and professional football games, he was always planning his next big outing. As an avid music and movie fan, not only did Tom amass an impressive collection of CD’s and DVD’s, but his gift for remembering facts made him a wealth of knowledge on movie and music trivia - many a road trip partner will attest to that.
Tom was a gem of a person; he was a treasure to the community, and his loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory continue to inspire kindness, warmth, and the joy that he so effortlessly shared with the world.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Penelope (Penny).
Survived by brothers, Joe, Don (Sue), and Dennis Wright; sisters-in-law, Shelly Wright and Jia Wright; nieces and nephews, Becca (Sam) Luebbers and Sammi Wright, Kaylee (Ted) Peterson, Bri and Leah Wright, Treyden and Ziva Wright; and five great-nieces and nephews.
Evening visitation was held Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. with a prayer service starting at 6:30 P.M. followed by memory sharing at The Peterson Chapel (119 Central Avenue) in Buffalo, MN. In honor of Tom’s love of sports jerseys, his family will be wearing jerseys from Tom’s collection, and you are invited to dress in a similar fashion.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation one hour prior at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (607 Maple Avenue) in Waverly, MN.
Inurnment will be held at a later date at St. Henry’s Cemetery in Perham, MN.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Edward Zeller, 95
Edward Zeller, age 95, of Brooklyn Park, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, February 3, 2024.
Edward “Ed” Zeller was born in Waverly, Minnesota, on March 13, 1928, to Phil and Josie. The middle child of seven, he was the first to be born in a hospital, one year before the Great Depression. Young Ed’s responsibility was to listen to his mother and “keep the wolf away from the door,” meaning to do anything to keep the family from starvation or poverty. Ed learned to do many different jobs around town, including delivery of handbills to theaters and breaking down old farm equipment with “knuckle busting wrenches” along with his brother, Bob. He appreciated his disciplined and modest upbringing which, along with his Catholic education, shaped his unwavering moral standards throughout his life.
Ed served for two years in the Army when WWII was just ending. While he peeled many a potato, Ed often praised his fellow vets, those fighting in direct combat, as the “real heroes.” In recent years, he frequently expressed gratitude for the support and good care from the VA Medical Center during his two bouts with cancer.
Ed met Labelle Eull at a dance in Rogers, MN and they married on October 10, 1953--recently celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary! Together, they raised a family of five daughters in Brooklyn Center. Ed spent most of his working career as a carpenter doing framing and drywall work. He earned the nickname “Fast Eddie,” as he was the first to quickly grab whatever the crew needed on the job—a servant wherever he went! With some help from family and many skilled friends, Ed proudly built two family homes, a cabin in Pierz, MN, and remodeled their winter home in Mesa, AZ. He was a faithful volunteer in the Minneapolis area for his church, Habitat for Humanity, Sister Jean’s Cookie Cart, and Caring & Sharing Hands. It was his delight to give back to his community and to God in these ways.
From a young age, Ed’s favorite way to spend his free time was playing baseball. He recently said that he could have been “a heck of a good player” if he had committed to batting left-handed! He remained an avid Twins fan all of his life. Ed also enjoyed dancing, golfing, playing cards, and a fun party with family and friends. Ed loved a variety of music, with classic Country and a few movie musicals at the top of the list!
Ed always saw life as a blessing and gift from God. His Catholic faith, with regular mass and prayer, remained deeply important to him through the years. Many would agree that this devotion radiated out from him in Christlike ways. He found true joy and meaning in very simple things—a favorite pair of blue jeans or sweatshirt, a good cup of coffee, live music, an AZ sunset, a hand-in-hand stroll with Labelle or a brief chat with someone he loved. When asked what he might say to God when they met face to face, he replied, “I have an awful lot to be thankful for.”
He is survived by loving wife of 70 years, Labelle; daughters, Sue Zeller, Joan (Randy) Austin, Joyce (Michael) Finch, Terese (Dan) Foley and Mary (Dan) Obermiller; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary Grotz and Rose (Wayne) Malachek.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 A.M., Friday, February 9, at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 9100 93rd Ave N., Brooklyn Park, with visitation one hour prior to Mass.
Luncheon reception to follow at the Osseo American Legion, 260 4th Ave SE, Osseo, MN 55369.
www.gearty-delmore.com, 763-537-4511