Obituaries 04/25/24
Della Anderson, 93
Della May Anderson, died at age 93, at her home in Otsego, Minnesota, on Sunday, April 21, 2024.
She was born on May 29, 1930, in Otsego, Minnesota, the daughter of William and Leona (Lockwood) Bell.
Della attended a little one-room schoolhouse in Otsego as a child and graduated from Elk River High School in 1948.
She was united in marriage to John Godfrey Anderson on September 9, 1950. Together, they raised their five children on their farm in Otsego where they lived for 68 years.
Della enjoyed baking, sewing, gardening, and canning. She was a proud farm wife and loving mother and grandma.
Della is survived by her loving children, Marty Anderson, Sherri Anderson (Jim Burzinski), Jane McAlpine, and Wendy (Tony) McAlpine; 12 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.
Preceded in death by her husband, John Godfrey Anderson; a son, Randy Anderson; a grandson, Ryan Anderson; and by her sister, Bernice LaGue.
Funeral Services for Della May Anderson will be held on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at The United Methodist Church in Elk River with visitation beginning at 9:30 A. M. Lunch will follow the funeral service. Interment Otsego Cemetery.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Steven Banser, 65
Steven Rae Banser, age 65, formerly of Plainfield, IA, died Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at his home surrounded by family in Buffalo, Minnesota.
Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, Nashua, Iowa, with Rev. Todd Burrichter presiding. Burial will take place at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Nashua.
Friends greeted the family from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, April 19, 2024, at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory - Olson Chapel in Nashua. Visitation continued an hour prior to the service at the church in Nashua on Saturday.
Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory - Olson Chapel in Nashua have been entrusted with arrangements.
Steven was born on September 1, 1958, to Lester and Delores Banser (Leisinger) in Waverly, Iowa. Steve grew up with his five siblings at their family farm in Plainfield, Iowa, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a strong and loving family bond.
In 1976, Steve graduated from Plainfield High School and also met the love of his life, Rhonda (Springer) Banser.
Steve and Rhonda wed on August 27, 1977, at the United Methodist Church in Nashua, Iowa. Together, they raised three children, Matthew, Aimee, and Ryan, all of whom inherited their father’s big kind heart.
Steve’s career began at John Deere in Waterloo; he then contributed his talents to K&G manufacturing, followed by an impressive 30-year tenure at Washington Scientific Industries with plants in Owatonna, Long Lake, Rogers, and Monticello, Minnesota. He concluded his professional career at SNX precision in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. He expressed that he saved the best for last, he truly enjoyed his work there and his colleagues at SNX.
Steven was a man that could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, at any time. His gift to connect with people was extraordinary, and he was always willing to lend a hand, an ear or offer advice. He led by example with his actions and the generous way he lived his life.
Steven’s enthusiasm for life and adventurous spirit was evident in his interests. The freedom of the open road, motorcycle trips, ski trips, fishing excursions, travels, and many more.
He cherished the joy of sharing these experiences, and others, with many family and friends.
Beloved husband, devoted father and grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, neighbor, enthusiastic storyteller, engineer, best bear-hugger, and nap enthusiast, Steve will be missed in this life by many.
Steven is survived by his wife, Rhonda, of Buffalo, MN; his children, Matthew Banser, of Eleva, WI, Aimee Banser-Carr (Aaron May), of Argyle, TX, and Ryan Banser, of Buffalo, MN; grandson, Logan Freeland, of Argyle, TX; mother, Delores Banser, of Waverly, IA; brothers and sisters, Lola Stiles, of Plainfield, IA, Lyle (Mary) Banser, of Merrill, WI, Sandy (Dwight) Hinrichs, of Tripoli, IA, Leon (Renee) Banser, of Fairhope, AL, and Bryan (Pam) Banser, of Janesville, IA; sisters- and brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Lester Banser; and brother-in-law, Richard Stiles.
(641) 435-4134, https://www.hugebackfuneralhome.com/
Mary Columbus, 59
Mary Kathleen Columbus, age 59, of St. Paul, formerly of Buffalo and Brooklyn Park, passed away on April 17, 2024, following a 22-year struggle with a Traumatic Brain Injury.
Mary was born in Minneapolis and raised in Brooklyn Park, the youngest of six children. After graduating from Park Center High School in 1982, she moved to Denver, Colorado, to work as a live-in nanny for a young family. When she returned to Minnesota, she married and had four children, whom she loved dearly. She enjoyed being involved in her children’s lives and being a ‘fun mom.’
Mary’s journey with her TBI began in early 2002, as a result of a severe car accident. Following her accident, Mary was cared for at HCMC and later Bethesda Hospital, where she relearned how to talk, walk, eat, write, as well as other life skills. It was determined then she would need to be cared for the rest of her life. When Integrity Living Options opened in 2003, Mary was one of their first residents, moving into their newest group home. She received assistance in all day-to-day activities and lived there for the remainder of her life. Over the years, Mary was fortunate to attend adult day programs through Kenny Courage Center and Rise, Inc.
Mary’s brain injury brought many challenges physically, mentally, and emotionally. It affected her short-term memory greatly and limited her ability to engage in most physical activities. Despite these hardships, she was a fighter and warrior through everything. Her experiences taught those who knew her to appreciate the little things in life and never take anything for granted. We learned how to love, laugh, cry, forgive, have compassion for others, and that it’s ‘okay’ to drop a swear word now and then.
As the years moved on, Mary’s brain injury brought on additional health battles. Her brain just could no longer keep up with her body. She continued to fight for the next four years, until she couldn’t fight anymore.
Mary is preceded in death by father and stepmother, Roger and Dorothy Columbus; stepfather, Bill Hurley; sister, Laurie Plante.
Survived by mother, Marion Hurley; children, Lindsay Geurts, Kyle Geurts, Kelcie (Mike) Benjamin, Natalie Geurts (James Frenzel); grandchildren, Logan, Jonathan, Isaiah, Holly, Nicholas; siblings, Pam Columbus and Dave Carlson, Karen and Brad Bolton, Julie and Jeff Lindsholm, Joe Columbus; brother-in-law, Dave Plante; many extended family and friends.
Mary is further survived by all her friends, housemates, and caregivers at Integrity Living Options. You’ve been a second family to us and to Mary, and your love and support of caring for her the last 20+ years will never be forgotten.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please give a donation to The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance in remembrance of Mary.
Lucille Farniok, 88
Lucille M. Farniok, age 88, of Watertown, passed away Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Parkview Care Center in Buffalo.
Funeral Service to be held Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church (121 Bluejay Ave. N) in Mayer with Rev. Andrew Mussell as officiant. Visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Interment in the church cemetery.
Lucille Malinda Schumann was born December 28, 1935, in Benton Twp., MN, the third of five children to William and Esther (Schrupp) Schumann. She attended Watertown schools, completing the 11th grade. On October 22, 1952, Lucille was united in marriage to Clarence “Bosco” Farniok. They were blessed with seven children.
Lucille grew up on a farm and had many pets, including dogs and a goat, who was a “big pain.” As a child, she enjoyed fishing in both the summer and winter, ice skating, and sledding in her brother’s toboggan. Some of her favorite memories were of times spent on the family farm, feeding cows, and walking through the woods. Lucille’s first job was in a canning factory. She also worked in a rubber plant and a plastic dye casting factory. However, her most coveted roles were that as a mother and homemaker. She had great patience as a mother and loved tending to all her family’s needs.
Lucille had many hobbies and interests. She enjoyed spending time at the lake at a friend’s cabin. She loved travelling, taking trips to Hawaii with her husband, and a bus trip to Branson, MO, with a good friend. Lucille was involved in organizing Flame Days in Watertown, was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and was a proud firefighter’s wife. She was also part of a bowling league, gardened, canned, and polka danced with her husband. Lucille delighted in playing Cribbage and 500 with friends and was an avid sports fan. She was especially fond of the holidays, busying herself with preparing many cookies and candies. Family was everything to Lucille. Beyond her children, she was blessed with 15 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Moments spent with them were her delight.
Lucille had a great faith and was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church in Mayer. After the loss of her husband, she found great hope and encouragement in prayer and attending worship services.
Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence; parents, William and Esther Schumann; daughter, Judy Schesso; siblings, Milton Schumann, Myra (Albert) Lenzen, Betty (Richard) Glaeser, Richard Schumann; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Lucille is survived by her loving family: children, Mike (Nancy) Farniok, of New York Mills, Kim Farniok, of Chanhassen, Keith (Becky) Farniok, of Eden Prairie, Chris Farniok, of Waconia, Correy (Michelle) Farniok, of Buffalo, Torrey Farniok and special friend, Jennifer, of Buffalo; son-in-law, Ron Schesso; grandchildren, Trina (Nate) Pauly, Mandy Gilland, Brett (Emily) Farniok, Desiree (James) Klosterman, Dylan (Stephanie) Schesso, Kari Farniok, Abby Farniok and special friend, Matt, Ryan Farniok and fiancé, Gabriella, Jill Farniok, Joseph (Emily) Farniok, Andrew Farniok and special friend, Emma, Corrine Farniok, Lauren Farniok, Noah Farniok, Miley Farniok; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Vivian Farniok, Shirley Farniok; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Casket Bearers are Lucille’s grandchildren.
Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, 952-442-2121, www.johnsonfh.com.
Jean Lemmon, 81
Jean Francis Lemmon, age 81, of Buffalo, and formerly of Fergus Falls, MN, passed away Monday, April 15, 2024.
She was born on July 15, 1942, in Wahpeton, ND, the daughter of Arthur and Jane (Kittleson) Parker.
Jean graduated from Wahpeton High School in 1960. She attended North Dakota State School of Science and received her teacher’s license in Valley City, ND. Jean later received a BA degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, AK.
She formerly taught middle school English in Fairmont, ND, and during her middle-age working years, she was a full-time columnist for the Daily News Newspaper in Wahpeton, ND.
Jean enjoyed writing poetry and reading books. She also loved spending time with her family and friends.
Survived by her loving children, Rebecca (John) Brandon and Roger (Rhonda) Lemmon, all of Buffalo, MN, and Robert Lemmon, of Spokane, WA; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three brothers, Jim (Sharon) Parker, Jerry (Becky) Parker, and Timothy (Chris) Parker; other relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by her parents.
A Memorial Service for Jean F. Lemmon will be held at Lake Ridge Care Center in Buffalo, MN, on April 27, 2024, at 2:00 P.M.
Memorials preferred to “Fund the Bus” at Lake Ridge Care Center.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo, MN, served the family. On-line condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Jack McAllister, 97
Jack Gerald McAllister, age 97, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on April 19, 2024.
Jack was born to Earl and Emily (Bukkila) McAllister on December 13, 1926. He grew up in Crystal, MN.
He was a graduate of Robbinsdale High School and The Dunwoody Institute.
He proudly served his country as a Navy Veteran during World War II.
Jack was truly a jack of all trades. He worked for Coast to Coast Hardware in Robbinsdale for many years. He was a toy designer for Sifo Toys, as well as for Centuri Rocket Company. He designed cereal box premiums for General Mills. Jack worked as an engraver at Jostens and was employed by North States Industries as a designer and machinist. He also worked at Priemier Plastics as a designer and mold fabricator and was a machinist at NW Swissmatics.
Jack was the proud creator of the games of BUNKERBALL and Racehorse Checkers. He also made a seed starter kit, which he named Roly Rooter. He made beautiful “Lucky Birds” out of wood and porcelain, which he sold at the community market.
He was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of the Robbinsdale, Crosby and Wright County Historical Societies. As a naturalist, he shared his expertise on ancient Native American portage trails, which traverse throughout Cuyuna country. Jack was instrumental in clearing the pathway for a scenic mountain bike and hiking trail located in Ironton, MN, and was featured in a documentary on PBS.
Jack had a vibrant personality and zest for life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and unwavering dedication to his passions.
He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his former wife, Myrtle Loch; daughters, Christine (Richard) Otis, of Coon Rapids, MN, Gail McAllister, of Minneapolis, MN, and Lelanie (Dennis Demessianos) Kratochwill, of Rhode Island; grandchildren, Sabrina Hasser, Nicholas (Chas) Sarff, Talon, and Jennah Kratochwill; great-grandchildren, Persephone, Gryphon, and Andrew; sisters, Marion Wilde, Shirley Clark, and Ruth Carson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; former wife, Mary Lil McAllister; infant daughter, Rose Lynn; brothers, Paul, Earl, and Roland; as well as his sister, Joanne Bexell.
Memorial service will be held Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Luncheon at the funeral chapel immediately following the service.
Interment will be in the Our Savior’s Lutheran Cemetery in French Lake, MN.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Allan Mobley, 53
Allan R. Mobley, age 53, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on April 22, 2024. (Full notice next week) Services are pending...
Arrangements are with The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Dennis Olson, 70
Dennis D. Olson, age 70, of Buffalo, passed away on April 17, 2024. (See full notice next week).
Funeral service for Dennis will be held Monday, April 29, at 6:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Assembly Area #2 on Tuesday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
