Obituaries 10/08/26
Robert Baldwin, 69
Robert “Bob” Baldwin, a devoted husband and father, gentle soul, and lifelong Minnesotan, passed away peacefully at his home in Buffalo, Minnesota, on September 28, 2026, at the age of 69.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on March 5, 1957, Bob was the cherished son of Richard and Marvel (Olson) Baldwin. He went on to build a beautiful life in Buffalo, where he was a respected resident for 36 years. For over 25 years, Bob served as the Parts Manager at Morrie’s Buffalo Ford, where his expertise and reliability made him a fixture in the community until his retirement in 2019.
Bob was blessed with a beautiful 23-year marriage to his beloved wife, Lisa, before her passing in 2013. Together, they raised three children who were the absolute center of his world. Bob was a quiet, gentle man whose actions spoke volumes about his love. As a dad, he never missed the little things; he always made sure his kids’ favorite snacks were perfectly stocked at the house. He was the ultimate “fix-it man”—the first to show up without hesitation whenever a car broke down or an oil change was needed. He found immense joy in the company of his cats and dogs, whom he affectionately considered his other “kids.” He also had a legendary sweet tooth and was rarely seen without a good cup of coffee. Above all else, his favorite moments were those spent simply being with his children and family.
An avid outdoorsman, Bob loved fishing the northern Minnesota lakes and was a passionate fan of Minnesota sports teams. His lifelong love for the outdoors began during his childhood in Crystal, Minnesota, where he spent countless days outside getting into good-natured mischief with his siblings and friends. In his later years, his connection to nature extended right into his own backyard. Bob found great joy in feeding and photographing the local wildlife at his Buffalo home, regularly keeping watch for deer, turkeys, hummingbirds, and other visiting creatures. He took pride in capturing these moments and always made sure to spread the joy by texting the photos to his family. In Bob’s true protective fashion, his children rarely left the house without hearing his signature parting phrase: “Love you! Watch out for deer.”
Bob is survived by his three children, Alyssa, Paige, and Ryan; his siblings, Jim (Cheri) Baldwin, Terry Baldwin, and Colleen (John) Crichton; brother-in-law, Bernie (Donna) Zimmer; and sisters-in-law, Janet (Chuck) Beckler and Karen (Don) Brandt. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, dear friends and neighbors, and beloved pets.
Bob is reunited in peace with his wife, Lisa; brother, Randy; parents, Richard and Marvel Baldwin; brothers-in-law, Mark and Terry Zimmer; and mother- and father-in-law, Jayne and Bernard Zimmer.
Funeral services for Robert “Bob” Baldwin were held on Saturday, October 3, at 1:00 P.M. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Buffalo.
Interment St. Francis Cemetery in Buffalo.
A Visitation was held on Saturday, October 3, one hour prior to services at the church.
Casket Bearers were Ryan Baldwin, Jim Baldwin, Dave Rudolph, Terry Baldwin, Trent Mahr, and Charles “Chuck” Beckler.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Peggy Dahl, 77
Peggy Dahl, 77, of Buffalo, Minnesota, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on September 27, 2026, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.
Peggy was the beloved firstborn of Chester and Hazel Sahlin. She met her future husband, Keith Dahl, at St. Cloud State University while attending InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. They went on to marry in 1970. Their firstborn daughter, Mandy, was born in 1978, and they adopted their second daughter, Sarah, in 1985.
Peggy was a devoted Sunday School teacher for more than 30 years. She worked at Bankwest for many years and loved her job and the people she worked with.
Peggy was an avid reader and passed that passion on to her daughters and granddaughters. When she wasn’t reading, she loved doting on her grandchildren, knitting, and spending time laughing and talking with family and friends. She had a bright mind, a big heart, and a smile that lit up the room to her very last day.
Peggy is survived by her husband, Keith; her daughters, Mandy (Patrick) and Sarah; her grandchildren, Audrey (Otto), Kjersten, Aria, Haven, and Emery; and her brothers, Glen (Marilyn) and Steve. She is also survived by her brothers and sister-in-law, Karen, Mark (Kathleen), Milo (Carol); various nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Chester; her mother, Hazel; her brother, Ted, and his wife, Lori; and brother-in-law, Steve (Karen).
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 11:00 am at Buffalo Ev. Covenant Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00am and a luncheon will follow the service. The service will also be live streamed at buffalocov.org/live.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations of books. A few books will be given to the grandchildren as keepsakes, and the rest will be donated in Peggy’s honor to local schools and libraries.
Peggy will be deeply missed and remembered forever by her family and all those who knew and loved her.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Hertha Dixon, 107
At the age of 107 years, 10 months, and 28 days, the Lord ended the earthly life of Hertha Giese Dixon on September 27, 2026, at Parkview Care Center in Buffalo, MN. She also resided in Buffalo.
She is welcomed into heaven by her husband, Donald; stillborn son; grandson, Kyle Dixon; her parents William and Bertha Hohenstein Giese; brother, Waldemar; sister, Anita; parents-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and many friends.
Hertha was born on October 30, 1918, in Greenwood Twp., Hennepin County. She was baptized on December 1, 1918, confirmed on April 9, 1933, and married to Donald Dixon on May 24, 1939, all at Salem Lutheran Church. She attended Twin Ponds School through 8th grade.
She wore many hats throughout her lifetime. She started working for Rosie Lieder in Hanover doing housework. She also had to clean the spittoons in the bar. Hertha was a farm wife raising chickens, pigs, and ducks and helping milk the cows when Donald was doing custom farming. Mom also worked cleaning houses in Wayzata for many years. She worked at Wise Penny thrift store after they moved to Buffalo. She also did greenhouse work for Rainer Pensky.
Card playing was a favorite of Mom’s. She knew every card game there was from Go Fish and Old Maid with grandkids to 500, euchre, and pinochle with friends.
She also enjoyed crocheting, sewing, and crafts of all sorts. Playing word finds, reading, and playing bingo were her favorite pastimes after moving into her apartment.
Hertha leaves to mourn her passing, children, DeLyte (Marvin) Bursch, Jim (Char)Dixon, Betty (Dan) Lange, and Gary (Carol) Dixon; grandchildren, Amy (Erik) Vandervest, Jenny (Dave) Larkin, Melanie (Mark) Tusler, Megan (Mark) Bergstrom, Matt (Kathy) Dixon, Jill (Sean) Kruger, Josh (Tiffany) Lange, Ben (Jaime) Lange, Adam (Jacque) Lange, Mallory (Reid) Weber; great-grandchildren, Nathan, Nicole, Vince Vandervest; Caitlin, Andrew (Emily), Cody Larkin; Maddy, Marissa, Bennett Tusler; Abbey, Brady Bergstrom; Jacob, Audra, Noah Dixon; Ruby, Kai, Lucy Kruger; Whitney (Joel) Helmbrecht, Zachary, Taylor (Darian) Koch, Ella Lange; Owen, Evan, Amelia Lange; Noah Wallin, Morgan, Harper Lange; Braedan Dixon; Grayson, Finley, Ryker Weber; one great-great-grandson, Garrett Helmbrecht; sister, Agatha Schulze; special cousin, Glenard Hohenstein; many nieces, nephews, and friends.
We graciously acknowledge your kind words of comfort, also visits, phone calls, food, and memorials.
In lieu of formal thank yous being sent, a donation will be given to Mom’s favorite charity. Your kindness will always be treasured.
Funeral services for Hertha Dixon were held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Greenfield. Pastor David Russow officiated. Cindy Steinke was the organist for the funeral service.
A visitation was held on Friday, October 2, from 5-7 P.M. at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. A prayer service was held at 7:00 P.M. Further visitation was held on Saturday morning, October 3, at the church one hour prior to services.
Honorary Casket Bearer was Glenard Hohenstein. Casket Bearers were Matthew Dixon, Joshua Lange, Benjamin Lange, Adam Lange, Amy Vandervest, and Mallory Weber.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Janice Holland, 88
Janice (Endres) Holland, age 88, of Monticello, and formerly of Buffalo and Maple Lake, passed away on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Parkview Care Center in Buffalo.
She was born on July 31,1938, in Otsego township near Albertville, Wright County, MN, the daughter of Isadore and Martha (Gilles) Endres.
On September 4, 1965, Janice P. Endres and Vernon R. Holland were joined in holy marriage.
Janice and Vern loved to travel. Their trips included visits to Alaska, Hawaii, and Mexico.
They wintered in Mesa, Arizona, starting in 1997. Janice continued to winter in Mesa even after Vern passed away in 2008.
She enjoyed bingo, bowling, golfing, dancing, billiards, and going to the casino.
Janice belonged to the V.F.W. Auxiliary in Maple Lake and was a former member of the Wright County Saddle Club.
Survived by two brothers, Leo (Marcia) Endres and Paul (Karen) Endres, all of Buffalo; a stepdaughter-in-law, Susie Holland; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to her husband, Janice was preceded in death by her parents; two infant siblings; a twin sister, Janet Middagh; sister, Elizabeth Beissel; a brother, Lawrence Endres; and stepchildren, Alan Holland and Linda Tolifson.
A rosary will be recited at 9:30 A.M. on Friday, October 16, at the church.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, from 10:00 A.M. until time of Mass at the church.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Janice Holland will be held on Friday, October 16, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo. Father Austin Barnes will be the Celebrant.
Entombment will follow at St. Francis Cemetery.
Special thanks to St. Benedict’s in Monticello and St. Croix Hospice.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Trent Johnson, 51
Trent Joseph Johnson passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, at his home in Albertville, MN, after a courageous health battle.
Trent was born on June 12, 1975, in St. Paul, MN, to Richard and Ellen “Roxie” (Morelli) Johnson. He enjoyed his childhood growing up in Mendota Heights, as well as his teenage years in Rosemount, where he graduated with the class of 1994. On October 8, 2005, he was united in marriage to Kristine (Kohn) at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo. They were blessed with nearly 21 years of marriage.
Trent loved life. He spent 20 years working as a restaurant manager for Old Chicago before becoming a sales representative in the beverage industry. He especially loved his time working as a sales representative for Dahlheimer Beverage in Monticello. He loved spending time with people, and both of these careers gave him ample opportunity to do what came naturally to him—connect with others and make them feel welcome.
Trent’s greatest focus in life was his family. He made the most of his days by focusing on his children. He loved attending their school events, checking on their schoolwork, and making sure they became the people he knew they could be. He was their greatest coach, encouraging them to always be their best, and was proud of each of them.
Trent also loved the outdoors. He grew up camping with his family and carried that tradition on by spending many weekends sitting around a campfire, hiking, hunting, and enjoying nature. He especially loved hunting with his family in the deer woods, where everyone enjoyed a big spaghetti dinner that Trent cooked on Saturday night. These traditions he continued with his own children, creating special memories and passing on his love of family, food, and time spent together outdoors.
Trent had an incredible gift for focusing on others. He encouraged his children to notice those who needed help, to give their time freely, and to always look for ways to make the world a better place. He reminded them, “You never know what others are going through.”
Trent loved giving his time to his church, St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo. For years, he spent his Sunday mornings volunteering on the technology team and also providing sound support for Sunday school; he helped hundreds of children sing, worship, and learn together. He gave his time and talents freely; serving others was simply part of who Trent was.
Trent is survived by his wife, Kristine; children, Morgan Page, Nicholas, Noah, Lacey, and Lindsey; parents, Dick and Roxie Johnson; parents-in-law, Robin and Susan Kohn; siblings, Tonya Rohling (Chris), Travis (Dani), Tara Petter (Tom), Laura Betker, and April Zea (Dilque); grandmother-in-law, Anita Rigge; beloved nieces and nephews; and many extended family members, relatives, and friends.
Trent was preceded in death by his grandparents, Alvin and Ruth Johnson; Alfred “Papa” and Inez Morelli; Jerome and Marjorie Rebischke; grandfather-in-law, Vernon Rigge; brother-in-law, Mike Betker; and nephew, Bruce Betker.
Trent will be deeply missed by his family and friends and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched, but especially through his children, whom he loved more than anything.
A Memorial service for Trent Johnson was held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Buffalo. Pastor Ryan Clark officiated. Inurnment followed at Lakeview Cemetery in Buffalo.
A visitation was held on Tuesday, October 6, from 9:00 A.M. until time of services at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Buffalo.
Urn bearers were Nicholas and Noah Johnson.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
SPC Hunter Sandberg, 21
SPC Hunter Sandberg
UNITED STATES ARMY
9/13/2005 – 9/27/2026
Hunter Ryan Sandberg was born on September 13, 2005, in Wyoming, MN, and unexpectedly passed away on September 27, 2026, in Oak Grove, KY.
Hunter attended MAG Christian School during his elementary years, then Chisago Lakes Middle School, and graduated from Buffalo High School.
Hunter enjoyed ice fishing, open water fishing, semi-graciously accepting defeat in cribbage, poker, and golf. Hunter was also an amazing artist. Whether it was through drawing or woodworking, he always poured his love and time into making the creation just perfect, with his most recent being a beautiful shelf that he made for his sister when he was home on leave this summer. Above all, he cherished hanging out with family and friends. It didn’t matter if it was the annual Morley New Year’s dice game night, eating plum dumplings at his grandparent Sandberg’s house, gathering at the dinner table to dig into his dad’s 20-hour cook brisket, family game night, or just hanging out on the couch. He loved spending time with Hailey and Remy, especially venturing to the iconic nutritional center known as Taco Bell. UFC fight nights with his Ft. Campbell brothers were always sure to result in epic stories and laughs. Going to Ohio with PFC Rice and watching Ohio State take on Michigan left him feeling he had another family. He couldn’t wait to take his second cousins to the bridge on fishing opener in hopes of catching those hefty largemouth bass. Hunter always enjoyed a round of golf, especially when he got to play with his cousins or uncles.
Hunter embraced his role as “big brother” and really went “all in” on that badge of honor, never to be taken for granted or tarnished. As their obligatory youthful sibling rivalries, spats, and world-changing arguments waned as maturity and life took their rightful place, their relationship solidified like a diamond. Unbreakable and beautiful.
To say that Hunter was determined would be an understatement. Whatever he set his mind to, he found a way to accomplish it. His greatest goal and achievement was becoming a soldier in the United States Army. Hunter enlisted in the Army in February 2025. He went to Ft. Benning, GA, for basic training, and during that time received a promotion to Private First Class (PFC). He finished his time there going through Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in the Georgia summer heat.
He was assigned to Ft. Campbell, KY, where he immediately settled in and found his crew. In his off time, he would go shooting at the range, ride motorcycles, hang out at various outlets to watch UFC fight nights, or go to Texas Roadhouse to crush a steak. All the things that are “on brand” for men of that age in that environment.
Hunter’s patriotism ran deep. Anyone reading this needs to know that he poured ALL of himself into his training, his body, and his mind to ensure that he was always “good to go” and do his part to ensure sure you and your families were safe. While Hunter grew to be very kind, generous, and loving, he also had a fierce sense of protection for everyone. It didn’t matter where you lived in this world, your religious beliefs (or lack thereof), your language, your political leanings, or anything else. What mattered was that you were a human being, and therefore worthy of being defended.
He treated his body as a weapon that was constantly being refined and honed. He took his life’s mission as incredibly seriously as you would hope a soldier would and demanded the same of his brothers at Ft. Campbell. As he built strength and mass, he also built more confidence and demanded others expect the same level of determination of themselves.
During his time at Ft. Campbell, Hunter was selected for the Soldier of the Month Board for October 2026, received his promotion to Specialist (SPC), was invited to meet Vice President Vance and was awarded one of the five challenge coins he issued that day, met Medal of Honor recipient Michael John Fitzmaurice, partook in several “interesting” training events, graduated from Air Assault School, and was one of four in the company selected to do a “Full Murph” with his Colonel and Command Sergeant Major (CSM). Look it up. There are many other things he did that left us with dislocated jaws.
Hunter was deeply loved and will be missed by his family, his friends, and his battle buddies. That bond will forever be in place and is a precious gift that all should embrace and treasure.
Hunter leaves behind his parents, Todd (Karyn) Sandberg and Heather Sandberg; his sister, Hailey; his brother, Remington; and his stepsisters, Taya Endreson and Atley Endreson. He is also survived by his grandparents, Denny and Sue Sandberg, Patrick and Carol Morley, and Nick and Gloria Bakken; his uncles, David and Shawn (Mary Ann); his aunt, Cher; his cousins, Jared, Darren, Brycen, Owen, Taden, Landen, and Calen; and his beloved niece, Paisley.
A private ceremony will be held at Ft. Snelling. A memorial service will be held on October 14, 2026, at Maranatha Assembly of God Church in Forest Lake, MN. Visitation will be at 10:00 A.M. with the service following at 11:00 A.M. There will be a luncheon afterwards. We invite anyone interested to come to the memorial service, share stories, cry, and laugh. There will be time for all of it.
Hunter would be honored that, in lieu of flowers or gifts, those wishing to express their sympathy consider making a donation to Band of Brothers Outdoors to continue serving his brothers.
Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
This he did defend.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Leonard Schlief, 85
In Loving Memory of Leonard Ernest Schlief
Leonard Ernest Schlief, age 85, of Buffalo, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Leonard was born on March 10, 1941, in Buffalo, Minnesota, to Ernest and Florence Schlief. He grew up on the family farm in Rockford Township and graduated from Buffalo High School in 1959. Shortly after graduation, Leonard proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963, attaining the rank of E-4.
On April 23, 1966, Leonard married the love of his life, Judy McCalpin. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and family. This year, they celebrated 60 years of marriage, a testament to their unwavering commitment and devotion to one another.
Leonard was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished great-grandfather. Above all else, he loved his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many friends who became family along the way. His home was always open, and he genuinely enjoyed visits, conversations, sharing stories, and making people laugh.
He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Schlief; his children, Brett (Mary) Schlief, Gina (Steve) Jenkins, Dana Weber (Charlie Fiecke), Chad Schlief, and Jamie (Joshua) Lemke; his grandchildren, Garret and Wyatt Schlief, Kelsey (Jett) Leaf, Brady Jenkins (Riley Hartman), Dylan (Karlie) Weber, Cody (Katie) Weber, Kylee Weber, Trinity Schlief (Mark, Jr. Narum), Dakotah Schlief, and Ethan Schlief, Keira Lemke and Keenan Lemke; and his great-grandchildren, Emery Leaf and Marley Weber, along with many beloved relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Florence Schlief; his sister, Beverly Dalton; and his mother-in-law, Kate Dahl.
A skilled Tool and Die Maker by trade, Leonard dedicated much of his life to his work. As the owner of L&S Tool & Design, he built not only a successful business but also lifelong relationships with customers and friends. Although he attempted to retire at age 82, his love for his work and the friendships he developed over the years kept him engaged for as long as he was able.
In addition to his career, Leonard enjoyed farming on his hobby farm in Waverly, where he raised beef cattle and crops for many years. He was an active member and officer of the Waverly Gun Club and had a passion for trap shooting. Leonard also loved hunting, fishing, spending time at Canterbury Park, taking trips to the casino, and gathering with family and friends. He was a gifted storyteller whose quick wit, infectious laugh, and larger-than-life personality made every gathering memorable.
In his later years, Leonard faced health challenges with strength and determination. Throughout this time, Judy remained faithfully by his side, providing extraordinary care, comfort, and unwavering love. Her dedication allowed Leonard to remain surrounded by the people he loved most. The family is forever grateful for the compassion, commitment, and selfless care she provided until his final moments.
Leonard’s legacy is one of hard work, loyalty, generosity, laughter, and love. He taught by example, valued family above all else, and leaves behind countless memories that will be treasured forever by those who knew and loved him.
Though he will be deeply missed, his stories will continue to be told, his laughter remembered, and his love carried forward through generations.
Memorial Service for Leonard Schlief will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, with Visitation: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Prayer Service: 7:30 p.m.
Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.
“A life well lived leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that last forever.”
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Mary Stevens, 90
Mary Terese Schoenecker Stevens, of Buffalo, MN, passed away Wednesday September 9, 2026, at 90 years of age. She was born in Spokane, WA, on May 26, 1936, to Norbert and Mary Schoenecker. She was the third of ten children.
Her family moved to Maple Lake in 1940, where Mary graduated from Maple Lake High School. She married Dick Stevens in 1956, and they raised six children.
Mary worked at Burkland’s Clothing Store from 1973-1981, then Cohen’s Department Store from 1982-1992. Mary always had a love for fashion; people came from miles to be styled by her or even just to see what she was wearing that day. After Cohen’s, she then went to work for the family business, Stevens Drilling & Environmental Services Inc., from 1993 – 2013 when she retired.
After her retirement, she was able to take the time to spend endless hours with her family. She gave her time, love, and energy without hesitation and with extreme dedication. Mary was also very generous and supportive of her community in many ways, including various forms of the arts. Her laugh, encouraging words, and her love will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Preceded in death by her husband, Dick; and her daughter, Patty (Stevens) Hankinson.
Survived by Michael (Jean) Stevens, Tim (Tamara) Stevens, Lisa (Kevin) Bursch, Mary Sue Stevens and Jeff Aldrich, Jeannie (Dan) Hintz; 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Wake is on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Peterson Chapel 3-6 p.m.
Celebration of Life is on Friday, November 6, 2026, at the Buffalo Legion 1-5 p.m.
Program for Mary starts at 1:30 until 2:00 p.m., a meal will follow.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
