Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel Obituaries

About Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel

Located in the heart of Mora, Minnesota, Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the local community for many years. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home is dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A History of Compassionate Service

Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel has a long-standing reputation for providing personalized and caring funeral services to families in Mora and surrounding areas. The funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to understanding the unique needs of each family and tailoring their services to meet those needs. From traditional funerals to cremation services, the team at Akkerman Chapel is committed to providing a meaningful and memorable experience for all who walk through their doors.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

STANLEY KUCHAR - October 19, 1923 - April 24, 2024

Departed: 04/24/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Stanley Joseph Kuchar, of Mora, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the St. Clare Living Community Rehab in Mora.  He was 100 years old.

Stanley J. was born on October 19, 1923, on the family farm in Edmore, North Dakota to parents Stanley F. and Mary (Karsky) Kuchar, the eldest of nine children. After high school, Stan started college at North Dakota State University for six months, before enlisting in the United States Army in 1943.  He served in the 13th Armored Division in the European theater during WWII.  He was honorably discharged in January of 1946 at Camp Stoneman in California. After his discharge, Stan attended Pasadena Jr College for 6 months before transferring back to NDSU in Fargo where he completed his BS degree in Pharmacy.

Stan was united in marriage to Helen Isabelle DeVore on August 27, 1946, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fargo, ND.  The couple settled in Mora where Stan began working as a pharmacist at Hall Drug.  Stan eventually purchased the business when Virgil Hall retired and continued working until his retirement in May of 2003.

Stan had many hobbies including golf, hunting, traveling, gardening, and photography that he used to hand make cards for his writing ministry which touched hundreds of lives both locally and abroad.  Stan was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mora, serving as a Trustee, Eucharistic Minister, singing in the choir, teaching classes, leading the bereavement group, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.  He was a longtime member of the Mora American Legion Post 201, serving as Post Commander in 1961.  Stan received the WCCO Good Neighbor award and was inducted into the Mora Mustang Hall of Fame for his good works within the Mora community.  He will be dearly missed.

Stan was preceded in death by his parents, wife Helen, infant son Michael, son David, son-in-law Gary Jensen, brothers, John, Laddie and Edward Kuchar; sister Fran (Ernest) Swanson, brother-in-law Ron Wavrin.

He is survived by his daughters Ruth (Joe) Henry of Duluth, Sister Kathy Kuchar OSB of Crookston, Marcia Jensen of Ham Lake, Sue (Ben) Janik of Whitefish, MT, and Jacki (Jeff) Molnar of Bemidji; daughter-in-law Cynthia Kuchar of Denver CO; brothers, George, and Jim Kuchar; sisters, Mary Wavrin and Pat (Jonathan) Connolly; 13 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, May 3, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Mora.

Memorial Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church, beginning at 9:00am on Friday.

Inurnment will be in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Mora.

Military Honors will be provided by the Mora American Legion Post 201.

A luncheon will follow the services.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, MEMORIALS ARE PREFERRED TO: St. Mary's Catholic Church or the Mora American Legion Post 201 - Veteran's Memorial.

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LUCILLE EVANS - October 31, 1934 - April 24, 2024

Departed: 04/24/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Lucille "Lucy" Rose Evans passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at GracePointe Crossing in Cambridge, MN.  She was 89 years old.

Lucille was born in St. Augusta, Minnesota on October 31, 1934 to parents William & Alma (Gohman) Zipp.  She married her sweetheart Leander Evans on June 25, 1955.  Lee and Lucy were married for 69 years.

Lucy enjoyed knitting, crocheting, gardening, canning, and playing cards.  She loved her 9 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren and taking care of her husband.

Lucy is preceded in death by her parents, infant son Mark; grandson Andrew, and siblings Dennis Zipp and Eileen Dahlin.

Lucille is survived by her husband Leander; son Donald (Carla); daughters, Diane (Dennis) Norby and Janet (Dave) Rivera; brothers, Leander Zipp and Harold Zipp; 9 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A private family inurnment will be held at Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

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KATHRYN BUTENHOFF - January 15, 1943 - April 21, 2024

Departed: 04/21/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Kathryn "Kathy" Lynn Butenhoff, of Mora, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Elderwood of Hinckley.  She was 81 years old.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Roy Ramstack and Jeanette (Geuder) Barnhart, husband Henry, daughter Brenda Graber, grandsons, Bryce Butenhoff and Gavin Butenhoff, and sisters, Judy Graff, and Victoria Luedke.

She is survived by her sons, Brian (Tamara) Butenhoff, Bradley Butenhoff, and Brett (Dao) Butenhoff; grandchildren, Ashley (Brock) Soderberg, Samantha Johnson, Makayla Butenhoff, Grace Butenhoff, Hannah Butenhoff, Mytchel Butenhoff, and Ethan Butenhoff; great grandchildren, Brielle, Lilith, Quinn, Zane, Lincoln, Leeroy, and Oliver; sisters Roberta (Robert) Dircks and Jo Sorensen; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 3:00-5:00 pm on Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Hamilton Funeral Homes- Akkerman Chapel in Mora.

A Prayer Service will follow at 5:00 pm.

A Private Family Inurnment will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic cemetery in Mora.

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VERNON HEINEMAN - April 28, 1934 - April 15, 2024

Departed: 04/15/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Vernon L. Heineman, of Mora, formerly of Grasston, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024, at his home.  He was 89 years old.

Vernon was born on April 28, 1934, to parents Lester and Viva (Ward) Heineman.  He grew up in the West Rock area of Pine City.  He joined the Air Force in 1956, and following his discharge in 1958, he worked in construction.

In 1961, Vernon and Donna Giese were married.  They moved to the Mora area in 1963 and wanted to farm.  They purchased a small farm and worked for Roelke Hardware where he laid all types of floor coverings, fixed lawnmowers, and other home appliances.  The farm grew and he became a full-time farmer, eventually purchasing a much larger Grade A dairy farm known as the Ranch, north of Braham, MN.  During this time, he was a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Grasston, Kanabec Farm Bureau, Kanabec Dairy Association, Kanabec Soil and Water conservation district, and Grasston Mill which he was chairman for many years.  When the dairy crisis happened, farming stopped.  He then worked with the Catholic Charities Caritas organization, visiting other farmers who were in crisis.  He worked for a while as a realtor and eventually became a Kanabec County assessor until retirement.

Traveling, camping, and fishing were always in the plans and all states except for a few far eastern states were visited.  The trip to Alaska was one that would never be forgotten because of truck trouble in Tok.  After Donna retired, winters were first spent in Arizona, New Mexico, and eventually seven years in Fredericksburg, Texas. Vernon is preceded in death by his parents Lester and Viva (Ward) Heineman, brother Glenn Heineman, and brothers-in-law Tom Giese and Miron Majeski.

He is survived by his wife Donna; daughters, Renee (Bryan) Coleman and Leslie (Ryan) McCallum-Ruud; 7 grandchildren, Benjamin (Melissa), Alexander (Samantha), Christopher, Emma, Logan (Tiffany), Hannah (Zach), Nicholas (Casey); 4 great grandchildren, Annastasia, Travis "Zoe", Aiden, and Lance; sisters-in-law Corrine Heineman, Annette Majeski, and Diane Giese; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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LOIS CUNNINGHAM - November 02, 1939 - April 15, 2024

Departed: 04/15/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Lois Marie Cunningham, of McGregor, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024, at Golden Horizon in Aitkin.  She was 84 years old.

Lois was born on November 2, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to parents Russel and Gertrude (Fisher) Dickison.  She was united in marriage to Robert Cunningham and blessed with four children, Cheryl, Russel, Vicky, and Richard.  Lois worked at Honeywell for many years.

Lois loved to make all kinds of crafts and was part of the quilting group at the church.  She enjoyed helping at church events whenever possible.

Her granddaughter Sarah held a very special place in her heart.  Lois enjoyed taking trips to the casino, having Sarah paint her nails and do her hair in all different colors.  Lois always looked forward to visits with her brother Dick and sister Kathy.  She will be dearly missed.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, and husband Robert; grandson Matt; and  4 brothers and 1 sister.

She is survived by her children, Cheryl Cunningham (Sam DeMenge), Russel (Wendy) Cunningham, Vicky Evanov, and Richard Cunningham; 6 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren; siblings, Richard “Dick” (Sue) Dickison, and Kathy Dickison; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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JOE TOMCZAK - January 09, 1985 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Joe Michael Tomczak, of St. Cloud and Grasston, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 12, 2024 at the St. Cloud Hospital.  He was 39 years old.

Joe was born on January 9, 1985 on the Andrews Airforce Base in Maryland to parents William and Patricia (Kabacinski) Tomczak.

Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Clarice Kabacinski, and Stanley Tomczak.

He is survived by his parents Bill and Tricia Tomczak; sister Kristi Tomczak; nieces, Kailey and Jessa Tomczak; many other relatives and friends. A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday April 27, 2024 the Open Arms Church of God in Grasston.​​

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

A luncheon will follow.

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HELEN DOFFING - April 09, 1936 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Helen Dorene Doffing, of Mora, formerly of Braham and Milaca, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Eastwood Senior Living in Mora.  She was 88 years old.

Helen was born on April 9, 1936, at home in Newport, Minnesota to parents Harrison and Mabel (Baker) Wells.  She attended school in Newport and St. Paul Park High School.  On December 1, 1952, Helen was united in marriage to Clifford Joseph Doffing on the Fort Sill army base in Oklahoma.  Two months later, Cliff was shipped overseas, and Helen returned to Minnesota to live with her parents.  In 1954, Helen and their new daughter, Sherry welcomed Cliff back home.  Helen and Cliff lived in Newport and were blessed with three more children, Deborah, Linda, and Harry.

In 1966, the family purchased a farm in Bock where they milked dairy cows, raised pigs, sheep, and chickens. Helen worked for Amoco Plastics in Mora for a few years before they moved to their farm in Braham in 1972.  Helen worked for Premier Products in Stanchfield, then as a seamstress in Isanti over the next few years.  Helen joined Cliff while hauling freight across the country as an over the road truck driver.   When they quit trucking, Helen worked as a cleaner at the Braham School and finally at the Cambridge Laundromat as an attendant.  At the age of 70, Helen fully retired.

Helen enjoyed RV camping, fishing, and listening to bluegrass music with Cliff. For several years, they spent the first 2 months of their winters in Texas and the final month in Arkansas.   Helen enjoyed sewing, crocheting, doing crossword puzzles, watching NASCAR, and was an avid reader.  Helen especially loved the daily get-togethers with the 3pm coffee group at the Centennial Terrace apartments in Milaca.  Helen will be dearly missed by her loving family and friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents, husband Clifford; brother Charles Wells; son-in-law John Golly; and brothers-in-law, Eugene Doffing, Ronald Doffing, Earl Doffing, Jim Kanon and Jerome Marcellus.

She is survived by her children, Sherry (Rick) Larsen, Deborah (Phil) Vander Vegt, Linda Golly, and Harry (Christie) Doffing; grandchildren, Curt (Elizabeth) Larsen, Chad (Sarah) Larsen, Todd Karnos, Jennifer (Jeff) Jabas, Heather (Jason) Olson, Keith (Sarah) Golly, Ann Brekkestran (Andrew Campbell), Joshua (Wendy) Doffing, Tanya (Aaron) White, and Jesse (Andrea) Doffing; 30 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Judith Wells, Norbert Doffing, Eleanor Ellingson (Bob Culbertson), Arneda Kanon, Marlene Marcellus, LeRoy Doffing, and Marilyn Doffing; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at the Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel in Mora with Pastor John Aaron White.

Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

A luncheon will be held at the Braham Moose Lodge following the service.

A Private Family Inurnment will be held at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

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DOREEN HEWITT - February 27, 1950 - April 05, 2024

Departed: 04/05/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: April 5, 2024 saw heaven gain an angel as Doreen Hewitt’s multi-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia came to an end.

Doreen’s life was filled with love and care for her friends and family. “Mother” was the name she loved best, and no one’s eyes gleamed brighter than hers when acting in that role. Doreen was happiest holding or playing with one of the “little ones” in her life. Whether it was a home cooked meal or sitting cross legged on the floor with a toddler, Doreen’s passion was taking care of her family. She also loved feeling the wind in her face traveling with her husband on their motorcycle.

Her infectious laugh and caring demeanor will be sorely missed, but her family is content knowing she is in a better place.

Doreen leaves behind her husband of 54 years, Bob; son Rob; daughter Jenelle; grandchildren Taylor, Shelby, Brady, Jacob, Anna, and Abby; as well as four great grandchildren, Jamison, Bennett, Chloe and Kolby; many other relatives and friends.

Sleep well Mom.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.

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JANE LINDQUIST - March 12, 1956 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Jane Ann Delia Lindquist, age 68, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at the Nord house in Mora, MN.

Jane was born in Braham, MN on March 12, 1956, the daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Peterson) Lindquist. She was born with challenges the doctor told her parents to take her home and love her and that is just what they did. Jane was at home with her family in Ogilvie until she moved to the Brighter Day group home in Mora. She started special education classes in Brunswick a few years. She then went to Ogilvie where she loved school and her teachers. Jane graduated in 1977. Times were changing, which gave Jane new and exciting opportunities to grow.  A Sunday School class for individuals with challenges was started at Stanchfield Baptist Church and had a wonderful Sunday School teacher Mildred Olson.  After graduation Jane worked at Industries Inc in Mora until she retired because she was unable to continue to clean at the casino due to her failing eyesight.

She had many friends and loved spending time with them. Anything with music really got her excited. Even after Alzheimer's had developed, she continued to enjoy music. Jane loved to bowl and was in a bowling league every week, taking part in the Special Olympics when she had the opportunity.

Jane was a hugger and had a big smile when she gave the hugs. She will be missed by Sue and Don as well as her extended family at Nord house. She loved living there; it was her home.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents and special cousin Beth Peterson.

She is survived by her sister Sue (Don) Malafa of Coon Rapids, Aunt Lois Peterson of Loveland, Colorado; many loving cousins, and the staff of RSI Nord House.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents Tom and Margaret Lindquist and special cousin Beth Peterson.

She is survived by her sister Sue (Don) Malafa of Coon Rapids, Aunt Lois Peterson of Loveland, Colorado many loving cousins, and the staff of RSI Nord House.

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LARRY FLUEGGE - December 06, 1945 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Larry Lee Fluegge, of Mora, formerly of Castlewood, SD and Maricopa, AZ; passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Welia Health in Mora.  He was 78 years old.

Larry was born on December 6, 1945, in New Ulm, Minnesota to parents Henry and Laverna (Ross) Fluegge.  He grew up on the family farm near Kroschel.  After graduating from Hinckley High School in 1963, he joined the United States Navy.  He served on the USS Saratoga until his discharge in 1966.  He returned home and began working at the People’s National Bank in Mora where he met the love of his life, Judith Van Rennes.  They were united in marriage on May 6, 1967.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, wife Judy, and daughter Michelle.

He is survived by his son Michael (Bernice Rousseau); grandchildren, Aaron, Chase, and Hailey; siblings, Robert (VI) Fluegge, Luanne (Clifford) Hirsch, and Janell Anderson; nephews and nieces, Tim Fluegge, Teri (Kevin) Hanson, Aleathea Anderson, and Alison (Jeff) Holland; many other relatives and friends.

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MURIEL BLESI - July 15, 1950 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Muriel Ann Blesi, of Mora, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at Eastwood Senior Living in Mora.  She was 73 years old.

Muriel was born on July 15, 1950 in Princeton, Minnesota to parents Gordon and Ruth (Snyder) Thomazin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Michael Thomazin and Mark Thomazin.

She is survived by her former spouse Harry Blesi; children, Tammy (Joseph) Owens, Richard Blesi, Ella (Lee) Stenstrom, and George (Brita) Blesi; 16 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren; brother Marshall (Becky) Thomazin; sister Nancy (Pat) Arnold. A COMPLETE OBITUARY IS PENDING

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JAMES RICHTER - June 06, 1952 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: James Ervin Richter, of Mora, passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024, at home surrounded by family.  He was 71 years old.

Known as Jim, Jimmy, occasionally Jimbo, and he playfully, with the kids took on “The Claw”, “The Terminator” and Bob Dylan through singing impersonations. He was known widely as a loving father, husband, and grandfather. Jim lived and breathed for his wife and family.

Jim was born on June 6, 1952, in Fargo, North Dakota to parents Ervin and Betty (Hugh) Richter. He spent the first 8 years of his life in Galesburg, North Dakota. His farming parents then tried out their luck at farming in Iowa for a couple of years but eventually settled on some land in Mora in 1962. This is where Jim remained even to the last moment of his life.

Jim would dairy farm all the way through 1993, until (to borrow a phrase from Springsteen, a favorite of Jim’s), “(milk) prices kept on dropping until it was like we were getting robbed”. Jim would continue to bale hay with his son all the way up to his diagnosis at age 69, in 2021. He climbed laboriously up onto his tractor to clean out the driveway for his wife even to the very end.

He had a fascinating life full of adventures, almost all of them revolving around volunteering or helping others. He survived a tornado in the 80s and again in the 90s, both storms of which lifted the roof off the old barn. He would then spare no time rebuilding it, just to have it entirely fall in one final windstorm in 2012. He bought an International 544 with his dad when he was 16, in 1968, and fought to keep that same tractor in the Richter namesake until this very day.

When it was time to have a family, he built an addition to the old house, and eventually built his wife a brand new house right next to the old one.

Jim was a jack of all trades, a true combination of Renaissance man and farmer; a man who absorbed the world and nurtured it into growth, but also an artist who allowed his art to chase after its own soul.

To his wife, Kathy, Jim’s Forever in Blue Jeans, he was a handsome and strong man, driven, loyal, warm, a jokester. The first time he met her, he knew that he was going to marry that girl. In marriage, his exhaustive toil was entirely for the chance to sit down with her on the couch at the end of the day. His first inner thought to any of life’s matters was about what “Kath” would think. While a stubborn man who prided himself in his strength outwardly, he knew (to his sometimes grumbling dismay) that his Kathy would melt his raw willfulness down and fashion it into a new tool, one exponentially stronger than what he ever had on his own.

Visual Arts in the school system in his era was void so Jim had to self-discover his prolific drawing talents, this a kernel planted, during the decade of Jim’s 20s. He then spent his 30s watering that kernel, drawing with and teaching his young son, Erich. Erich blossomed into a talented artist and chose to become an art educator. Erich once longed to continue the dairy farm of his forefathers but has found one of his own proverbially, through teaching.

His daughter Kayla was his “sunshine on a cloudy day… my girl” (as per the Temptations). Jim and Kayla bonded over softball and tennis, gardening, recreating Jim's favorite childhood desserts, small talk and hugs, and looking out for each other. Jim coached many championship Hillman Baptist church softball teams in the 2000’s and 2010’s. His pride was when he could hear the other teams strategize over placing their hits towards Kayla, because Kayla, his lily in the outfield, would then go and snag every single one of their attempts. This pride was not about her skill with softball, it was about his daughter’s grit in life.

Jim’s son, Jared, his Everglow, was his proof that God rewards the steadfast. Jared’s upbringing is the prime example of Jim’s ability to adapt and grow. Jim and Jared, pranksters and devoted sports fans, independent but reliant on each other, carved their own niches over cars, a true Earnhardt junior and senior, basketball, music, video games and movies. No son of Jim’s would be allowed to be the baby of the family, a fact Jim never once had to verbalize. Jim set the bar high through living and he proudly witnessed Jared become a righteous man wise beyond his own years. With elder siblings out of the house, Jared, Kathy, and Jim were quite the trio bound by love.

Jim would absolutely not like this reference, but there are many other things which he did that we suppose the books of the world could not contain them (John 21:25).

You lived a great life, Jim. Jesus explained the Kingdom of Heaven through parables. Jim, you would have explained heaven as driving the tractor straight into the cool breezy ending of a long, hard day, with a child on each fender and yet another in your lap, awaiting the cooking and the snuggles of your wife at home. May your crops continue to grow in eternity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law Howard and Doris Dalbey, and sister-in-law Carol Schindeldecker.

He is survived by his wife Kathy; children Erich (Alyssa), Kayla (A) Thor, and Jared (Rebekah); grandchildren, Isabelle, Emma, Jakob, Hannah, Ava, Lauren, Emily, and Ezra; sisters, Carol (John) Gaetz, Marie (Mike) Lynch, and Delores Richter; sisters and brothers-in-law, Phyllis (Gene) Bartsch, Wayne (Julie) Dalbey, Vicki (Mel) Vork, and Kirtes Hocum; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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MURIEL GORHAM - April 04, 1927 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Muriel Charlotte Gorham, of Mora, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at the St. Clare Living Community in Mora.  She was 96 years old.

Muriel was born on April 4, 1927, in Milltown, Wisconsin to parents Benjamin and Gertrude (Anderson) Lindvig.  The family eventually settled in Mora and Muriel attended Mora Schools where she was involved in many activities before graduating in 1945.  She attended Macalester College. She returned to Mora where she was united in marriage to Wilbur “Jack” Gorham.  She was a strong and supportive partner as Jack worked hard building his businesses.

Muriel dedicated her life to her family and loved being a mom to her three children.

Muriel was very active in the Mora community in many ways including serving on several boards (American Legion and HUD among others).Her faith was extremely important in her life as she was a long standing member of Grace Lutheran. She enjoyed volunteering for various organizations to include the Vasaloppet where she was a Kranskulla.

During a Vasaloppet event Muriel met Sven Broberg who had traveled from Sweden for the race in Mora.  They were later married and enjoyed many happy times together.  They later separated and Sven returned to Sweden.

Muriel made a special connection with Harold “Hans” Hanson and the two enjoyed golfing and traveling together, including winters in Arizona and summers at the cabin on Lake Eleven. They had 23 fun-filled years together before Hans’ passing in 2013.

She had great appreciation of art, literature, nature and music. She was an avid reader attending book clubs as well as several card groups.  She traveled extensively across the nation and Europe.

Muriel lived life to the fullest and it was reflected in her smile, bright personality and hugs she had for everyone.  She will be missed.

Muriel is preceded in death by her parents and brother Dr. Philip Lindvig.

She is survived by her children, Jeff (Deb) Gorham, Laurie (Brad) Ardner, Jon (Amy) Gorham; grandchildren, Ben (Heather) Ardner, Dagne, Evan, and Will Gorham; great granddaughter Charlotte Ardner; nephews, Charles (Georgene) Lindvig and Kirk (Jeannette) Lindvig; many other relatives and friends.

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MONA MAGNUSON - May 16, 1934 - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Mona Viola Magnuson, of Mora, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, March 16, 2024.  She was 89 years old.

Mona was born on May 16, 1934 in Trensom, Sweden to parents Ebbe and Vilma (Sand) Sjoberg.

Mona Sjoberg was united in marriage to Bertil Magnuson, a pastor, and together they served many small and some bigger churches.  God blessed them with four wonderful children: Sam, Noomie, Dave, and Mike.  In December of 1972 the family felt led by the Lord to immigrate to the United States and God opened doors for ministry here in the States.  The children’s singing group was incorporated as “The Happiness Four” in 1975.  After being based in Van, Texas for many years the ministry relocated to Mora, Minnesota where Bertil and Mona spent their final years.

Mona was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bertil, and sons, Sam and Dave Magnuson; brother Arne (Doris) Sjoberg; sister May (Bertil) Persson.

She is survived by her children, Noomie (Dean) Lindahl and Mike (Lynette) Magnuson; grandchildren, Rachael, Jordan (Bethany), Stefan (Brittany), and Daniel; great grandchildren, Kiara, William, Savannah, Serenity, and Salem; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A private Interment was held at the Oakwood Cemetery in Mora.

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ROGER BOSTER - November 19, 1935 - March 13, 2024

Departed: 03/13/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Roger Keith Boster of Mora, passed away on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at  Welia Health in Mora, MN.  He was 88 years old.

Roger was born on November 19, 1935, in Slayton, Minnesota to parents Lyle Sr. and Nora (Doherty) Boster. In 1941, the family moved to a farm north of Mora where Roger attended both the Willard and Lincoln country schools through the 8th grade.  He graduated from Mora High School in 1954.  He took a job as a deck hand on the Ore boats in the Great Lakes until 1955, when he was drafted into the United States Army.  He received Medic training and served in Germany towards the end of the Korean War.  After his discharge, Roger returned to his job on the Ore boats for another 2 years, before coming home to work with his father on the family farm.  He later took over the full operation and at its peak, was milking 187 dairy cows, 3 times a day as well as farming corn and soybean crops.  He put his heart and soul into the farmland and the care of his animals.  He received many MN DHIA awards and was Dairyman of the Year.

In the late 80’s, Roger met Annette “Toni” Valenzuela at the Sportsman Café in Mora and he hired her to milk cows.  Together they built a life together on the farm they both so loved.  After they sold the dairy cows in the early 2010’s, Roger continued to raise beef cattle and his beloved Boer goats.  His nephew Mike later took over the crop farming, but Roger continued his deep love for the farm until his final day.  He will be dearly missed by family, friends, and the animals he leaves behind.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Del, Marlyn, and LeRoy; brother-in-law Mel Persson, sister-in-law Lynda Boster.

Roger is survived by his partner Toni Valenzuela; brothers Gary and Jim (Shirley) Boster; sister Lou Persson; Toni's children, Michael (Chrissy) Valenzuela and Erin Valenzuela; many nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

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ELMER STRAND - April 15, 1926 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Elmer Ordin Strand passed away peacefully in the loving embrace of his family on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 in Mora, MN aged 97 years 11 months.

Elmer was born April 15, 1926 on a farm near Selz, North Dakota to Rasmus and Emma (Fryer) Strand.

Being the second youngest child of five with no sisters, Elmer often helped his mother with kitchen and housework duties. He had fond memories of this time with her. When he got older, he went to work in the barn and fields. He was a curious child (a trait he exhibited until his last days) and studied the habits of animals, both wild and domestic. He fondly remembered how he could get along with “Frank,” the orneriest horse in the stable, when others couldn’t.

His ability to study and understand the world and its inhabitants served him well in WW-II where he was a logistics engineer stationed in Germany. He was responsible for provisioning troops with food and drink.  He told many stories of how, by learning what was important to people and respecting their differences, he was able to swing some good deals for his kitchen and make friends across cultural and national boundaries at the same time.

After the war, he tried farming for a while, but he soon turned toward broader horizons and studied accounting. After a brief stint with the railroad, he began working as an accountant at an automobile dealership in Lewistown, MT.

On April 16, 1955 he was married to Ruth Evelyn Hall of Lewistown. While in Lewistown, he came to own and operate Imperial Motors, the local Chrysler dealership. In Lewistown, two children were born to Elmer and Ruth: daughter Karen and son Paul.  He was very active in the community and could often be found on the golf course in his free time.

Elmer sold the Chrysler dealership in 1969.  He brought his family back to Harvey, ND where he farmed and sold insurance and annuities through AAL. He was part owner of another car dealership, had a small herd of Shorthorn cattle, served as county commissioner, and had other community interests as well.  He retired in 1986.  In 1999, Elmer and Ruth moved to Truth or Consequences, NM where they lived until moving to Mora, MN in 2013.  Throughout his life, Elmer was always interested in the ‘why’ of everything; it was his learning style and the way he understood people and the world around him.

Elmer is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers; Walter, Edwin, William, and Norman.

Elmer is survived by his wife, Ruth; children Karen (Scott TenNapel) and Paul; and grandchildren Jared Faust (Jessica), Tyler Faust, Zachary Faust (Charlotte Herrmann), and Rachel Strand.

Elmer will be forever loved and remembered for his vigorous curiosity, strong work ethic, his tendency to have an opinion, his ability to see the good in people, his commitment to family, and his firm belief that we are all good and worthy humans, regardless of our differences.

A private family gathering will be held.

Military Honors will be provided by the Mora American Legion Post 201.

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SUZANNE GRAHN - March 07, 1949 - March 11, 2024

Departed: 03/11/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Suzanne Marie (Lance) Grahn, age 75, peacefully entered her eternal Home on Monday, March 11, 2024. She was surrounded by family during her final days. Sue dealt with health problems most of her life, but she never allowed them to keep her down. It would be wrong to say that Sue lost her battle because she never stopped fighting, she was a warrior like no other!! No matter how sick she was, she was always fierce and determined. When anyone else would have broken, Sue stayed strong. When the doctors told her she couldn’t, or wouldn’t, she took that as a challenge! She always overcame and exceeded any expectations of the medical professionals. Through her, we know what resilience and perseverance truly look like. We know what true strength looks like! There was absolutely no quit in Sue.  Just because she is no longer here, it doesn’t mean she quit, or she lost her fight, it simply means that her body was tired, and her soul was ready to be with Jesus, and her loved ones who left before her. Most importantly, her grandson Lucas, her daughter-in-law Roxi and her parents.

Sue was born in Minneapolis on March 7,1949, to Doris and James (Jerry) Mullane, who were selfless enough to give this precious little girl up for adoption. They gave the best gift possible to Emmet and Harriet (Strandlund) Lance and in return, Emmet and Harriet gave this beautiful little baby a wonderful life with the best parents a little girl could ask for! Sue grew up in Braham, MN.

She married her high school sweetheart, Jim Grahn in 1968. They went on to have 3 children and raised their family in Excelsior, MN. After Jim retired, they moved to Mora, MN. Sue was very creative and loved doing any kind of crafts, but she had a special affinity for sewing and was quite the seamstress. Her proudest sewing projects were creating and sewing her wedding dress, a contract with General Mills to make windsocks, making the evening gowns and costumes for Mrs. Minnesota. She was also actively involved with the Intercambio student exchange program.  Sue was an amazing wife and mother. She was loving, supportive, encouraging and always put others first.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandson Lucas Grahn, daughter-in-law Roxi Grahn, brother William Mullane and sister Julianne Lance.

Sue is survived by husband Jim, son Christopher, daughters Amy (Mandy) and Alison, sisters Dianne (Gerald) Sizer, Mary Karpinen, Patricia (Mike) Peterson, brother James (Pat) Mullane, grandchildren Keyshawn Johnson, James Johnson, Parker Grahn and Kaley Grahn, dearest friend Kathi Conrad, grand-dog Gus and many dear sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who remember her kind heart and fighting spirit.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic church in Mora.

Memorial Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

A Private Family Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Rice Lake Cemetery in Braham.

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LINDA K SEAMAN - July 27, 1954 - March 09, 2024

Departed: 03/09/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Linda Kay Seaman, of Mora, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.  She was 69 years old.

Linda was born on July 27, 1954 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to parents Laurence and Colleen (Holden) Bahlmann.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Larry Bahlmann, Loren Bahlmann, and Robert Cox.

She is survived by her husband William 'Bill"; sister Lori Huro; sister-in-law Joanne Cox; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

In keeping with Linda's wishes, no services will be held.

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JOHN RIPKA - August 27, 1938 - February 26, 2024

Departed: 02/26/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: John Edward Ripka, of Ogilvie, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024  at his home.  He was 85 years old.

John was born on August 27, 1938, to parents Robert and Margaret (Kubat) Ripka Sr. northwest of Mora, Minnesota on the family farm.  The fourth of ten children, he worked on the family dairy farm while attending country school.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mora and as a teenager helped haul bricks to build the current church building.  He graduated from Mora High school in 1956.  At age 17, John enlisted in the United States Navy and served overseas on a carrier on the Saigon River.  He was one of the mechanics that kept the ships’ huge steam engines running.  After his discharge, he returned home to the family farm where he helped farm with his brother Robert while working at Boatel in Mora.   During the 12 years at Boatel, John helped build and assemble the floating dance hall on Leach Lake and the floating Motel in Athabasca, Canada.  He was in the R&D department building and testing snowmobiles.  He won quite a few trophies racing snowmobiles.

On July 31, 1965, John was united in marriage to Lois Leona Voss at St. Kathryn’s Catholic Church in Ogilvie. They were blessed with six children.  They purchased their first farm of 40 acres near Ogilvie where they milked 10 cows and raised crops while John worked at Boatel.  After a few years, they purchased a larger farm just down the road and upped the dairy herd to 50.  Over the years, they won several dairy producer awards and were farm family of the year.  Upon retirement, John and Lois were able to spend time at the family cabin north of Duluth where John enjoyed fishing on their small lake and the Cloquet River.

Always an avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed many hunting seasons for deer, pheasants, and ducks over the years.  He also took several trips to Colorado for elk and mule deer hunting.  John and Lois spent a few weeks each winter in Florida where John enjoyed fishing and golfing.  Throughout his life, John loved to dance and was a sought-after partner by his little sisters, wife, and many of the ladies near the dance floor.

An ever faithful and active member at St. Kathryn’s, John helped in building the new church, was a 3rd Degree in the Knights of Columbus, and was a main fish fryer during lent for many years.  He was a member of both the Ogilvie Lions and the Mora American Legion.  Most of all John loved and cherished his family and the time spent with them.  He will be missed.

John was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Barbara (Mike) Glienke, Ramona (Virgil) Peterson, Virginia Dickerson, Patricia Williams; brothers-in-law, Lynn Smith, and Kermit Grundberg; and sister-in-law Diana Ripka.

John is survived by his wife Lois; children, Pamela Snow, Peter (Stacy), Susan (Brad) Radziej, Sharon (Todd) Steffen, Steven, and Sheila (Tim) Peterson; 15 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; siblings, Robert (Barb) Ripka Jr., Marie Grundberg, Mary Smith, Joe (Cathy) Ripka, Jim Ripka (Jeanine Presler); brothers-in-law, Jim Dickerson and Don Williams; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the St. Kathryn's Catholic Church with Father Timothy Gapinski officiating.

Memorial Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

A private family burial will be held at St. Kathryn's Catholic Cemetery on Monday, March 4, 2024.

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JIM BASSETT - January 29, 1958 - February 26, 2024

Departed: 02/26/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: James “Jim” George Bassett of Pine City formerly of Mora, MN passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Pine Haven group home in Pine City after a battle with cancer.  He was 66 years old.

Jim was born on January 29, 1958, in Kanabec County to parents Don and Lorraine (Lammers) Bassett.  He was the second of six children.  He grew up on the family farm in Peace township and attended Warman school in his early years and then through 11th grade at Mora High School.  As a young child, Jim was baptized and confirmed at St. Johns Lutheran church in Kroschel.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and deer hunting.  He played a major role in the daily operations of Bassett’s Greenery.  He enjoyed picking agates and using them to build bird houses.  In Jim’s later years he lived in a foster home in Pine City and then a group home till his passing. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brother Steve and sister Annette Lazinski.

He is survived by his brothers, Tim Bassett, Doug (Clarise) Bassett; sister Audrey (Dale) Clementson, and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

The family wishes to give a special thank you to St. Croix Hospice, Dave and Michelle of Three Seasons Adult Foster Care and Pine Haven group home for the excellent care of Jim for several years.

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CASSANDRA TYE - June 27, 1997 - February 21, 2024

Departed: 02/21/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Cassandra "Cassie" Tye, of Ogilvie, Minnesota, formerly of Shafer, left this world to be with Jesus at the age of 26 on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, after facing a four-year battle with chronic kidney failure triggered by Goodpasture syndrome.

Born on June 27, 1997, in Chandler, Arizona, Cassie found her forever home when she was adopted by Stephen and Beverly Tye in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on August 26, 2004. Relocating to Minnesota with her family, she graduated from St. Francis High School in 2016.

Cassie will be fondly remembered for her profound love of art, a passion that colored her world with creativity. Cassie would often be found drawing almost obsessively, expressing herself through her craft. Music was another avenue through which she connected with the world, her eclectic taste reflecting her personality.

Cassie's life was woven with threads of friendship and family. Time spent with loved ones and friends was precious to her, and she reveled in the warmth of those connections. Beyond her personal joys, Cassie's heart beat with a passion for serving others. Her benevolence and compassion formed the basis of her connections with people, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her.

Cassie was preceded in death by her mother, Beverly Tye, and grandmothers, Marilyn Tye and Earnestine Jenkins. She is survived by her father, Stephen Tye; step-mother, Laurie Tye; twin sister, Chelsea Tye; brother, Kenny Tye; cousin and sister-at-heart, Angela Betor; step-siblings, Alex Bury and Haley Bury; grandfathers, Danny Tye and Paul Jenkins Sr.; and a multitude of other relatives and friends who mourn her death on earth but celebrate her life, her healing, and her passing into eternity with Jesus.

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BEVERLY WILSON - April 27, 1954 - February 16, 2024

Departed: 02/16/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Beverly Ann Wilson, of Isanti, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 16, 2024, at the Elim Home in Princeton.  She was 69 years old.

Beverly was born on April 27, 1954, in Mora, Minnesota to parents George and LaVerne (Pearson) Wallace.  She grew up in Mora, the second of five children.  While attending Mora High School, she loved singing and participated in theater before graduating in 1972.  She attended college before moving to Washington DC with her sister Debra, where Bev worked for the Dept of Defense for a few years.  She moved to Chicago where she met Dennis Raymond Wilson.  They were married on March 29, 1980, in Las Vegas.  They made their home in Chicago where Bev worked for a Travel Agency.  Bev was able to travel across the world to check out the destinations they were booking for their clients. When the agency partnered with Greek Airlines, she took multiple trips to Greece, a favorite spot along with the Cayman Islands and Las Vegas.  Bev retired in 2005 and she and Dennis moved to Isanti, Minnesota to be closer to her family.   They enjoyed being snowbirds in the winter months and traveling to different states for about 10 years.

Bev loved baseball and was a diehard Cubs fan, casino trips to play the slots, and was an avid reader.  She will be dearly missed.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents.

Beverly is survived by her husband Dennis; siblings, Jean Black, Debra Wallace (Kenneth Hasskamp), James (Robyn) Wallace, and Vicki Wallace; brothers-in-law, Richard (MaryJean) Wilson and Thomas (Barbara) Wilson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. A Celebration of Beverly's Life will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at the Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel in Mora A Memorial Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at the church

Inurnment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Mora.

A luncheon will follow.

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BETTY RODENBORG - June 17, 1931 - February 02, 2024

Departed: 02/02/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Betty Lou Rodenborg, passed away peacefully at the St. Clare Living Community under the care of St. Croix Hospice on Friday, February 2, 2024 surrounded by family. She was 92 years old.

Betty was born on June 17, 1931 in Williston, North Dakota to Charles and Rachel (Weeks) Blake. The family moved to Mora in 1934. Betty attended school there from 1936-1948.

Betty met the love of her life, Everette Rodenborg and they were married on August 16, 1948 until Everette’s passing in 1993. On June 26, 1949, they were blessed with their first child of seven.

Together they worked on their dairy farm, she wrote clips for the Mora Times paper for several years of Happenings in their Neighborhood, volunteered their home for bible studies and church events of many kinds over the years, drove school bus for the Mora School system; Betty drove for 33 years, during this time, she also cared for her mother Rachel until her passing, and then, retired from driving bus.

Betty had a beautiful relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, she was saved at the age of 13. Betty attended Emmanuel Baptist, taught Bible school with her good friend Charlene Andersen of (Mora), when Betty and Everette married, they switched to Grasston Baptist Church, then later switching to First Presbyterian Church in Mora for 60 years, until recent. Betty did much volunteering at her church in several areas, she really enjoyed being director of the meals for funerals, as she loved to serve! Betty had kept in contact with a couple of previous pastors until her passing, what a joy she felt from these friendships.

Betty enjoyed the farm life, her big family, her 14 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. She loved caring and being there for all who needed her, neighbors, family, and friends alike. She enjoyed collecting salt and pepper shakers, making homemade mints for every occasion, the best Caramel rolls in the county, embroidering projects for gifts, sewing clothes, (along with much patching with that many kids)! She brought pure joy to all who knew her.

Betty’s family would like to thank Welia hospital, St. Clare Rehabilitation, Assisted Living, and the Long-Term Care unit, and St. Croix Hospice for their excellent care.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; husband Everette; brothers, Frank, Dick and Lyle Blake; sister Mariane Sipes; sons, Everette Jr. and David; and grandson Brian.

Betty is survived by sister Mary Wenzel; brother Dave Blake; children, Vernon Rodenborg, John (Patty). Ivan (Becky), Irene (Paul) Pojanowski; and Cindy (Allan) Motschenbacher; daughter-in-law Heidi Rodenborg; along with many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Mora with Betty’s grandson Derek Mansker from Battle Lake officiating.

Memorial Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hamilton Funeral Homes-Akkerman Chapel and again 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

Interment will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Mora.

A luncheon will follow at church.

Memorial are preferred to the Mora Food Pantry or St. Croix Hospice.

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KARL DEIS - January 09, 1935 - January 27, 2024

Departed: 01/27/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Karl "Coach" E. Deis, of Mora,  peacefully passed away from cancer on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.  He was 89 years old.

Coach Deis was born in Gaylord Minnesota on January 9, 1935.  After graduating from Gaylord High School, he served in the US Army and was stationed in Korea and Germany. After his service, he attended St. Cloud State University where he played football and earned his teaching degree.  He began his teaching and coaching career at the Ogilvie School District. He served there for two years before he moved to the Mora School District. He taught Physical Education and Social Studies for many years. He transitioned from teaching to an administrative role where he served as community education director and athletic director. He continued to work with youth in the summers as the manager of the Mora Municipal Swimming Pool. He walked many laps around that pool.  Karl served Mora High School from 1964 to 2000, when he retired from his administrative duties. He continued his coaching career after retirement as well as teaching Driver’s Education. He coached many sports including head coach for girls and boys golf, girls and boys cross country skiing and his true love, football. He served as head football coach for many years before moving to serve as defensive coordinator with head coach Clark Bergloff. They continued the great Mustang football tradition and winning ways. Coach Deis was directly involved in the Mora Mustang Football Program for over 50 years.

He was passionate about coaching and working with students. He impacted many lives and truly loved every one of his players. In 2010, he was inducted in the Mora Mustang Hall of Fame. In 2021, he was one of the very few selected to become a part of the Minnesota Football Coaches Hall of Fame.

Karl’s hobbies included golf, wood-working, and spending time with Bev and his family and friends.  Karl and Bev really enjoyed following their grandchildren to their sporting events.  He was their biggest fan!  They enjoyed traveling and took some amazing trips, but in the last several years they really appreciated Duluth and Lake Superior.

Karl is preceded in death by his parents Michael and Adella Deis, first wife Gloria, and stepson Jeff Twait.

He is survived by his wife Bev; sons, Tim (Barb) Deis and Matt (Judy) Deis; grandchildren, Sarah (Ben) Miller, Stephanie (Nick) Brehmer, Dan Deis, Grace Deis, and Noah Deis; great granddaughter Kallie Miller, several other relatives and many friends.

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ARCHIE ZELLMAN - June 11, 1930 - January 21, 2024

Departed: 01/21/2024 (Mora, MN 55051)

Obituary Preview: Arthur "Archie" Zellman, of Mora, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at his home.  He was 93 years old.

Archie was born on June 11, 1930, in Whited Township, Minnesota to parents Arthur and Mary (Weidendorf) Zellman.  He grew up on the family farm, attending Quamba schools for 8 years before finishing his High School diploma by correspondence courses.  On October 12, 1951, Archie joined the United States Army and served in the 101st Airborne Division.  He was honorably discharged in May of 1952 but remained in the Reserves for another 8 years.

Archie was united in marriage to Sonja Jensen on December 28, 1957 at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Mora.  They were blessed with 3 children.   Archie worked for several different manufacturing companies over the years including Blaw Knox, Brako, Mora Industries, Anderson IBEC, and Amoco/Sheller Globe before retiring.  During retirement, Archie took a part-time maintenance job at the Mora Medical Center for a number of years.

Archie’s love of sports started at a young age when he played baseball for Quamba for 15 years and 1 year for Hinckley.  In his later years, watching Twins Baseball was a favorite pastime.  He enjoyed hunting for deer and birds, and fishing on the local lakes.  Archie was a member of the Mora American Legion Post 201, Mora Lions, Jaycees, and a 66-year member of the Calvary Lutheran Church.  He also liked to garden and do woodworking projects. Traveling with family and friends included a trip to Europe, a cruise, and many trips out west including Las Vegas.   Most of all, Archie cherished his family and spending time with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids.  He will be dearly missed.

Archie was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lorraine (Orville) Kobberdahl, and brother-in-law Floyd Jensen.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Sonja; children, Brian Zellman, Karen (Charles) Macomber, and Brad Zellman (Tonya MacGaren); grandchildren, Chelsey (Zach) Schwartz, Cole (Sara) Oosterhuis, Madelynne Zellman, Abigail Zellman, and Samantha Morine; great grandchildren, Athea, Emery, Archer, Anthony, and Autumn; sister Marilyn Jensen; brother-in-law Norman (Doris) Jensen; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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A Beautiful Facility

The funeral home's facility is warm and inviting, providing a comfortable atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The chapel is spacious and well-appointed, with ample seating for large gatherings. The funeral home also features a private family lounge area, where families can take a moment to relax and compose themselves during a difficult time.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel, every funeral service is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the family. The funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's life and legacy. From selecting music and readings to choosing flowers and casket options, every detail is carefully considered to ensure that the service is truly reflective of your loved one's personality and spirit.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional funeral services, Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel also offers a range of cremation options. From direct cremation to cremation with memorial services, the funeral home's staff will guide you through the process and help you choose the option that best fits your needs and budget. They also offer a variety of urns and keepsake options, allowing you to memorialize your loved one in a way that feels most meaningful to you.

Pre-Planning Services

While it may seem difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. At Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel, their experienced staff can help you pre-plan your funeral service, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is spared from making difficult decisions during a time of grief. By pre-planning, you can also lock in costs at today's prices, protecting your family from future inflation.

Community Involvement

Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel is deeply committed to giving back to the Mora community. The funeral home regularly participates in local events and sponsors community organizations, demonstrating their dedication to supporting those around them. This commitment to community involvement sets them apart as a truly caring and compassionate funeral home.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted and compassionate funeral home in Mora, Minnesota, consider reaching out to Hamilton Funeral Homes - Akkerman Chapel. You can visit them at their convenient location at 825 South Union Street, Mora, MN 55051, or give them a call at (phone number). Their experienced staff is always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer support during a difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who want to pay their respects. They help to notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and offer a chance for loved ones to express their condolences.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or online obituary platforms may also offer assistance in writing and publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include details about the funeral or memorial service, charitable donations, and any other relevant information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral homes allow you to upload photos of the deceased. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the obituary and help others remember the person.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online submission forms or email addresses where you can send the obituary.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to reflect on their life and legacy. This can also help alleviate the burden on their loved ones during a difficult time.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, typically including only essential information such as name, age, date of birth and death, and funeral details. It's often used when a full obituary is not desired or feasible.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers or online platforms may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or free listings.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

It may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published, but this depends on the publication or platform's policies. Be sure to check with them beforehand.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Online platforms may publish immediately, while newspapers may have longer lead times due to print schedules.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics in an obituary as a way to personalize it and reflect the person's personality or interests.

What is a memorial page?

A memorial page is an online tribute to the deceased, often featuring their obituary, photos, condolences from friends and family, and other memories. These pages can remain active for years after the initial posting.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites that specialize in collecting historical records. Local libraries or historical societies may also have access to archived newspapers.

Can I republish an obituary from another source?

Be sure to obtain permission from the original publisher before republishing an obituary. You may need to provide credit or acknowledge the source material.

What is a celebration of life?

A celebration of life is a type of memorial service that focuses on honoring and celebrating the life of the deceased rather than mourning their passing. It may include music, stories, and other personalized elements.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in their loved one's memory. This can be a meaningful way to continue their legacy.

How do I write a condolence message?

A condolence message should be sincere and respectful. Express your sympathy for the loss, share a fond memory if you have one, and offer support during this difficult time.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech or written tribute that celebrates the life of the deceased. It's often delivered during a funeral or memorial service by a family member, friend, or colleague.

Can I create an online memorial for my pet?

Yes, many online platforms offer services specifically for creating memorials for beloved pets. These can include photos, stories, and condolences from others who understand your loss.

How do I cope with grief after losing a loved one?

Grief is a natural process that takes time. Consider seeking support from friends and family, joining a support group, or talking to a mental health professional if needed. Remember to take care of yourself during this difficult time.

What is a funeral home's role in creating an obituary?

Funeral homes often assist families in writing and publishing obituaries as part of their services. They may provide templates, guidance on what information to include, and help with submitting it to local newspapers or online platforms.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, humor can be an appropriate way to celebrate someone's life and personality in an obituary. Just be sure it's respectful and fitting for the occasion.

How do I handle incorrect information in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible to report any errors. They may be able to correct it online or issue a correction in their next print edition.