Karvonen & Son Funeral Home Obituaries

Introduction to Karvonen & Son Funeral Home

Karvonen & Son Funeral Home, located at 110 S. Broadway, PO Box K, New York Mills, MN, 56567, has been a cornerstone of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the local area, this family-owned funeral home has built a reputation for trust, respect, and dedication to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and honor.

A History of Service and Tradition

Karvonen & Son Funeral Home has a rich history that dates back many years. The funeral home was founded on the principles of providing personalized and caring service to families during one of the most difficult times of their lives. Over the years, the funeral home has remained committed to these principles, earning the trust and respect of the community it serves. Today, Karvonen & Son Funeral Home is still family-owned and operated, with a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to continuing the tradition of excellence and compassion.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

John Flath - September 11, 1934 - May 03, 2024

Departed: 05/03/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: John Herman Flath was born on September 11, 1934, to Herman William and Ida Anna (Bahls) Flath in Perham, Minnesota.  John attended Country School District #242 south of Evergreen.  He served in the United States Marines Corp, being honorably discharged in 1962.

John Herman Flath and Marlys Joann Greenwaldt were united in marriage on November 25, 1983, at the United Methodist Church in Perham.

John did construction work in Fargo, North Dakota for a number of years. Then moving to Butler Township, rural Menahga, Minnesota where he farmed until 1996.  He enjoyed fishing and working in his yard.

John passed away on May 3, 2024, in the comfort of his own home. He will be dearly missed by his friends and family. John is preceded by his siblings: Vernon, Clarence, Adelyne, Blanche, Roy, Edwin, and Irma Flath; brothers-in-law: Karl Rinas and Daniel Boane; sister-in-law: Rosie Flath.

John is survived by his loving wife: Marlys Flath of Menahga; children: Denise Misanes of Bellingham, Washington; Dena Flath of Washington; Debra Kelley of Ancorage, Alaska;  John (Monica) Flath of Menahga; step-children: Lynda (Terry) Manselle of Kandiyohi; Rodney Haidle of Staples; Brian Koplin of St. Peters;  brother, Marvin (JoAnn) Flath and sister, Maria Walker. numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with many other relatives.

View Full Obituary

Kenneth Salo - January 16, 1941 - April 29, 2024

Departed: 04/29/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth (Kenny) Melvin Salo was born January 16, 1941 to John Edward and Mayme Esther (Lake) Salo in New York Mills, Minnesota. He attended school in New York Mills, graduating with the class of 1958. After high school, Kenny continued his education at St. Cloud Vocational School where he was enrolled in the mechanics program. He was employed with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, first in St. Paul Park then moving to Golden Valley. Kenny was drafted into the United States Army and was honorably discharged on November 19, 1965.

On November 2, 1968 Kenny was united in marriage to Louise Frakie at the Apostolic Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minnesota.  Their marriage was blessed with two daughters: Rebecca Ann and Tamara Mae. In 1971 they moved to Brainerd, Minnesota. Kenny continued working for the Minnesota Department of Transportation and remained there until he retired in 2003.

Kenny enjoyed hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and gardening.  He shared his love for the outdoors and sports with his daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren.  He enjoyed watching the Twins, Vikings, and Timberwolves . If he wasn’t watching sports, he could always find a good show on the Western channel.  Above all, he loved spending time with his family.

On April 29, 2024, Kenny passed away peacefully at home in Brainerd, Minnesota where he lived with his daughter Becky and his son-in-law, Steve.  Kenny will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Kenny is preceded in death by his wife, Louise; parents John and Mayme; brothers: Carl, Darwin, Donald and Howard; sisters: Carol Zaeske, Alice Harris, Doris Bosell, Ruth Meisenbach and JoAnn Salo; brothers-in-law Arnold Zaeske, Larry Harris, Don Beaver, Darrell Bosell and John Frakie; sister-in-law, Margaret Alwin; and nephews: Bruce Beaver and Darin Bosell.

Kenny is survived by his daughters: Rebecca (Steven) Bontjes of Brainerd; Tamara (Mark) Larsen of Northfield; grandchildren: Ashley Bontjes, Andrew Bontjes, Kennedy Larsen and Jacob Larsen; sister, Bernice Beaver of Verndale; brother, DeWane (Nancy) Salo of New York Mills; sisters-in-law: Jeanette Salo, Rose Salo and Kari Frakie; brother-in-law, Valgene Alwin; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.

Please visit: www.nymalc.org/watch-live to watch a livestream of Kenny’s service.

View Full Obituary

Allan Carlson - July 31, 1938 - April 29, 2024

Departed: 04/29/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Allan Fredrick Carlson was born on July 31, 1938 in Duluth MN to Adolph and Nora Carlson.  Allan attended school in New York Mills   from second grade forward through graduation in 1956. After a short time at Gustavus Adolphus College, he enlisted in the US Army in 1957 and was stationed at a Nike site west of New York City.

In 1960 he enrolled at St. Cloud State College where he met and married Karen Townsend. They had two children, Andrew and Amy.

After graduation from college in 1965 he was employed by the Duluth School system.  He taught at Central High School for 32 years where he was the AV coordinator.  This involvement brought him to networking and installing computers at all Duluth schools.  During these years, Allan relaxed by canoeing with his good friend Bob Turner while exploring the BWCA wilderness.

Allan and Karen were divorced in 1989 and he was briefly married to Evelyn Davis in 1991.  Upon his retirement from the Duluth School System, he moved to Bessemer MI and married Jodell Wick in 1997.  They sought assignments within the American Schools system which brought Allan the position of Librarian and Technology Coordinator at the American School in Karachi Pakistan from 1997 to 1999.  Later, he was the Librarian at the base school in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.   After his third retirement, he and Jodell spent several years on world travel and quiet life in the Upper Peninsula until her death in 2010.

In 2012 he reunited with his childhood sweetheart Mary Hall with whom he recited commitment vows before Pastor John Krueger at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rockport TX.  Until his death, they resided in New York Mills and spent several winters in Texas.  They enjoyed travels in Europe and the U.S. western states.

Allan passed away at Perham Health on April 29.  He is preceded by his parents, his sister Janice Strand, and his wives.

Allan is survived by Mary (Tikkanen) Hall as well as Andrew (Rashika), their children Arya and Aiden, and Amy and her daughter Ella.

View Full Obituary

Kitty Ueke - September 15, 1960 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Kitty Renae (Hedlund) Ueke was born on September 15, 1960, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Her parents were the late Clarence and Marlys (Erickson) Hedlund. Kitty graduated from Frazee High School with the class of 1978.

On October 13, 1979, Kitty was united in marriage with James “Jim” Gerald Ueke at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Evergreen, rural Frazee, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed with two children: Tammy and Steven. Kitty and Jim made their home for a short time in Jamestown, North Dakota and then returned to the Hedlund family farm in Evergreen Township where they resided and dairy farmed for 20 years. They made their home in Detroit Lakes for the past 10 years where Kitty was employed with Ecumen in activities and then home health care. She was a representative for State Farm in Detroit Lakes for 20 years and enjoyed being a music teacher. Kitty was also employed at Thorwaldsen Attorneys in Detroit Lakes.

Kitty enjoyed music, gardening, cooking, and baking. She especially loved being part of local bake sales and baking for church. Kitty loved to read and over the past few years read many different books. She also loved volunteering and spending time with her grandchildren.

Preceding Kitty in death were her parents Clarence and Marlys Hedlund; sister Jan Johnson and her husband, Ken; nephews Wade Johnson and Jason Paesler and niece Wendy Johnson.

Kitty is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Jim Ueke of Frazee; children: Tammy Ueke of Frazee; and Steven (Tiffany) Ueke of Frazee; three grandchildren: Kylie, Aliese and Gryson; sisters: Zona (Hedlund) Paesler of Richwood; and Cindy (Hedlund) Nelson of Park Rapids; brother Harold (Cheryl) Hedlund of Richwood; and a host of family and friends.

View Full Obituary

Sharon Bauck - August 12, 1943 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Sharon Lee (Peterson) Bauck, age 80, of New York Mills, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family. Private family services will be held.

Sharon Lee Peterson was born on August 12, 1943, in Homestead Township, rural New York Mills, Minnesota to Harry and Evelyn (Ahlers) Peterson. She was raised in New York Mills and attended country school until graduating with the New York Mills High School class of 1961.

On April 15, 1961, Sharon was united in marriage to Donald Bauck at Trinity Lutheran Church in New York Mills and to this union five children were born.

Sharon worked many jobs in her lifetime but the ones she truly enjoyed were selling home interiors, cleaning professionally, and working in the turkey barns. She enjoyed gardening, lawn care, bird watching, cleaning, hunting, ice fishing, and spearing. Sharon’s favorite holiday was Christmas when she could spend time with her family, take shopping trips and decorate her home for the season.

Deeply loved, Sharon’s passing will be mourned by her husband of 63 years Donald; her sons: Bryan (Colleen) Bauck, Shawn (Hope) Bauck, and Jason Bauck; her seven grandchildren: Jesse (Christa) Bauck, Kaylie (Robert Peterson) Bauck, Brandon Baldwin, Chase Monson, Christopher (LaCher Dolan) Bauck, Shawn Bauck, and Victoria Bauck; her eight great-grandchildren: Kamdyn, Oliver, Hudson, Addax, Raife, Kiera, Christian, and Maiu; sisters-in-law: Mickie Peterson, and Karen Thompson; brother-in-law: James Steinbach; her dog and best companion Sasha; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of friends.

Sharon is preceded in death by her parents, her infant child, her daughter Wanda, granddaughter Jenha, siblings: Dorothy, Willy, Stanley and Carol, and her dog Gismo.

Sharon was the most caring and giving person you could ever have the honor of knowing. She always placed others needs above her own.

View Full Obituary

Charles Kasma - April 22, 1959 - March 26, 2024

Departed: 03/26/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Charles Scott Kasma, age 64, of New York Mills, Minnesota, passed away on March 26, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

Charles Scott Kasma was born on April 22, 1959, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to LeRoy and Helen (Perala) Kasma.

He will be deeply loved and missed by his sons Anthony Kasma and Steven Kasma as well by his sisters Lynn Kasma, Kimmy Kasma, Debby Loza and those who knew him by those who knew him.

No services to be held at this time.

View Full Obituary

Patricia "Pat" Buerkle - May 26, 1940 - March 20, 2024

Departed: 03/20/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Mary “Patsy” Lofback was born on May 26, 1940, to Leonard and Helmi (Nikkari) Lofback in Minneapolis, MN, the youngest of three girls. She was baptized in June of 1940 and confirmed in May of 1954. She attended West High School in Minneapolis, graduating with the class of 1958. Following high school, she attended the University of Minnesota, and Valparaiso University where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in 1962. She furthered her education at Moorhead State University obtaining her Master of Liberal Arts degree in 1991. Pat was an English and German teacher in Perham and St. Louis Park, MN, and a travel agent in New York Mills.

On August 24, 1963, Pat was united in marriage with the love of her life Edward “Ed” Buerkle at Peace Lutheran Church in Robbinsdale, MN. Their marriage was blessed with five daughters: Gwen, Karla, Sara, Julie, and Betsy. Together they made their home in New York Mills. Pat worked at Perham High School until 1966, when she became a full-time Mom and later, beloved Grandmama. Pat was a lifelong learner, inspiring her children and grandchildren to live with curiosity and open hearts & minds.

Pat loved being involved in her community over the years. She spent much of her time volunteering and organizing school and church events. She was a founding member of New Horizons (GFWC) of New York Mills, long-time Sunday School teacher and member of LWML at Trinity Lutheran Church, a leader of Campfire Girls, a facilitator of Junior Great Books & more. She was a Board Member and volunteer at the New York Mills Public Library, Board Member at Farmers & Merchants State Bank in New York Mills, and avid supporter of music and the arts, especially at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center.

Pat enjoyed reading, traveling, playing golf, gardening, and being at the lake & in the sunshine. Pat adored her family. She treasured Lofback and Buerkle Women Weekend traditions. She loved to cheer on the MN Vikings, Twins, and Golden Gophers. She & Ed invested countless hours in the bleachers as proud supporters of the NYM Eagles. She enjoyed connecting & engaging with her three local book clubs. She was proud of her Finnish heritage through her Nikkari & Lofback families, and exemplified “Sisu” as she faced life’s challenges. She passed down her love, kindness, and welcoming spirit to all. She led by example, teaching those around her how to make everyone feel seen and accepted.

Preceding Pat in death are her parents; sister, Beverly Holmstrom and former brother-in-law, Jack Holmstrom; parents-in-law, Angie and E.H. (Burk) Buerkle; sister- and brother-in-law, Mary and Jack Driessen; and nephews, Troy Niebergall, Bruce Holmstrom, and Timothy Holmstrom.

Pat is survived by her loving husband, Ed Buerkle; daughters: Gwen (Chuck) Denninger of Maple Grove; Karla (Joe Himmelberg) Buerkle of Plymouth; Sara (Craig) Vosper of Loretto; Julie (Matt) Radniecki of New York Mills; and Betsy (Nick) Roder of New York Mills; 17 wonderful grandchildren; beloved sister: Margie (Don) Niebergall of Zimmerman; many other relatives and a host of friends. May Pat’s legacy inspire us all to approach life with a fierce sense of love, joy, humor, kindness, a strong faith, and an adventurous spirit. May we live with grace and expect the best of everyone we meet, lifting up those around us, always rooting for the underdog, and quick to share smiles and laughter. As her dad used to say, may we always “Keep Looking Up.”

Pat’s spirit made those around her feel loved, nurtured, and valued. We’d love to hear how she touched you. Please share a remembrance or story on Pat’s Tribute Wall online, or in the Buerkle women spirit, bring a picture or a written memory to her Visitation. As she valued community so highly, and beautified through a green thumb, we invite you to consider planting a living memorial to enjoy, or supporting her NYM favorites, our local library, Cultural Center, or Trinity Lutheran Church. New York Mills Public Library: https://www.nympubliclibrary.org/client/en_US/nym/ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center: https://kulcher.networkforgood.com/projects/144147-everyday-giving Trinity Lutheran Church: https://www.nymtrinity.org/give-online/

View Full Obituary

Paul Klinnert - January 12, 1955 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Paul Martin Klinnert was born on January 12th, 1955 in Perham, MN to Leo and Delores (Bickel) Klinnert. Paul was a lifelong member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church of Rush Lake being Baptized and Confirmed there. He grew up and was raised on the family farm in section 9 of Otto Township.

Paul was an avid outdoorsman throughout his entire life which included trapping, coon hunting, big game hunting, forestry, and developing some of the best deer habitat in the area.

Paul was also a lifelong sports fan and athlete in his younger years. Paul played football, basketball, and baseball in high school. Paul also played amateur baseball for the New York Mills Millers and umpired Legion baseball games until farming and family became more important. Later on in life Paul would briefly come out of “retirement” and play two more seasons for the Millers “old-timers” team.

Paul met Diane Werner in June of 1973 at a wedding dance at the Grand View Heights Ballroom on Big Pine Lake. Their first date was a night out racoon hunting. Paul would later sell three cows at the Perham Sale Barn and cash the check at the local jewelry store for an engagement ring for Diane.

On September 11th 1976 Paul and Diane were married at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Perham. They made their home on their newly purchased 200 acre dairy farm in Section 11 of Otto Township.

After operating a successful dairy farm for 25 years, Paul made the decision to sell his herd in August of 2001 and reinvent himself. After beginning a successful seed business in the 1990’s, Paul expanded his seed business in 2001 to include even more seed, fertilizer and herbicides. Always the outdoorsman, always the farmer, Paul took his two passions and found a way to marry them together into a successful business. In 2006 Paul expanded his store to also include firearms, ammunition and other hunting and agricultural products.

In 2019/2020 Paul and Diane built their retirement home half mile west of their farm which in section 10 of Otto Township. Paul loved to say that he “never went far in life” being raised in Section 9, living in Section 11, and retiring to section 10 of Otto Township, all within two miles of each other.

Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grand-grandfather. Paul loved to watch his sons play sports and their other activities. He never missed any of his son’s football games, basketball games, baseball games or band concerts.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents Leo and Delores Klinnert and his in-laws Al and Arlene (Steinbach) Werner. Paul is survived by his wife of 47 years Diane. Three sons, Jason (Bobbi) Klinnert of Crookston, MN. Joshua Klinnert of Hopkins, MN. Jesse (Deb) Klinnert of Mankato, MN. Six Grandchildren: Casey (Karli) Delaney, Brady (Amelia), Bailee, Valor, Belle, and Crawford. Six Great-Grandkids: Jordyn, Lily, Elaina, Addison, Liam, and Mason Delaney. He is also survived by his siblings and in laws: John (Jackie) Klinnert of Underwood, MN. Helene Johnson, Irene (Don) Dykhoff of Wadena, MN. James (Victoria) Klinnert of Canton, GA. Marilyn (Roger) Bernu of Baxter, MN. Margaret (Craig) Palan of Wabasso, MN. Mark (Joan) Klinnert of Kindred, ND. Don (Janice) Werner of Lisbon, ND. Rick (Pam) Werner, Deb (Tim) Meehl of Perham, MN, and Terry (Tony) Peeters of Menahga, MN.

View Full Obituary

Rick Mann - August 26, 1954 - March 15, 2024

Departed: 03/15/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Rick Mann, longtime Watertown, MN resident, currently residing at the lake house in Ottertail, MN. Rick passed away in Ottertail, at his home surrounded by family, on March 15, 2024 at the age of 69.

Rick was born August 26, 1954 in South Minneapolis, the first born child to Raymond and Janet (Lindgren) Mann. He was raised in South Minneapolis and attended Roosevelt High School. Rick started working at age 15 for Olson Paint and Auto Body and House of Color. From then forward his fuse was lit for autobody.

He moved to Colorado for a couple years to work for Larry Dittman, extending his knowledge of the trade. Rick spent a bit of time having fun in California and then moved back to Minnesota.  He rented an autobody shop in Apple Vally. He was always driven to work for himself and when he saw an ad for the property in Watertown, he purchased it shortly thereafter.

On June 16, 1979, he was united in marriage to Laurie Krinhop at Roger and Mavis Hartman’s home in Victoria, MN. Rick went on to own and operate Showcar Enterprises for 42 plus years. Rick had a keen artistic ability and high standards for perfection. He was known for running a “tight” operation. He retired from the body shop in 2019. During his years in the community, he did what he could to give back and help make Watertown the best it could be. He served 8 years on the City Council. Rick loved watching Minnesota sports teams. He thoroughly enjoyed playing golf, both in Watertown and Ottertail. He was proud that he and Laurie had won 3 Balmoral two-person opens!

Through the years, Rick and Laurie traveled the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, Disneyland and the states. Rick enjoyed fishing up in Canada with family, and cherished the time spent with family, friends, and neighbors up at the cabin on Lake Buchanan. He was a dedicated grandpa, loving and supporting all his grandkids. Rick was so proud of both his children and grandchildren.

Rick is survived by his wife of 45 years, Laurie; 3 daughters, Rachel and Matt Blackketter; their sons, Kaden, Carter and Jayce of Watertown, MN; Hailey and Colin Zeman; their son Emmett of Livingston, MT; Natalie and Logan Anderson; their children, Baker and Merrick “Ricky” of Souix Falls, SD; father, Ray Mann; sisters, Sue Lamparske and Kim Corcoran; half-brother Travis Hagen; uncle, John Lindgren; and many other relatives and friends.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Jan Mann; In-Laws, Doug and Lois Dodge.

Rick made time for his family and friends. He shared many laughs and lots of love. He will forever be in our hearts.

The family would like to thank Roger Maris Cancer Center, Red River Valley Hospice, and countless friends and family for their love and support.

View Full Obituary

Nancy Ann Menze - April 30, 1946 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Nancy Ann Niskala was born on April 30, 1946, in Wadena, Minnesota. Her parents were the late Ernest and Lillian (Hervi) Niskala. Nancy graduated from New York Mills High School with the class of 1964. She completed CNA Training at the Elders’ Home in New York Mills and where she continued employment.

On July 8, 1971, Nancy was united in marriage with Arvin Dennis Menze in Sisseton, South Dakota. Their marriage was blessed with a daughter, Peggy. Together they made their home in rural Ottertail where they farmed. Nancy had a green thumb when it came to gardening and growing flowers.  Arvin passed away on October 2, 2010.

On March 12, 2024, Nancy passed away peacefully at Lake Region Hospital in Fergus Falls, Minnesota at 77 years of age. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Preceding Nancy in death were her parents, Ernest and Lillian Niskala; husband Arvin Menze; brother, Clyde Niskala; sister-in-law, Phyllis Menze; and brothers-in-law: Verlin Menze; and Vernon Witt, Jr.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Peggy (Mike) DiPretoro; 3 grandchildren: Joey, Josh, and Jonathan; brothers-in-law: Marlyn Menze and Delvin (Bette) Menze; sisters-in-law, Sharon Witt and Betty Menze; nephew: Brian Niskala; niece: Christine Hometchko; many other relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

Bruce Anderson - June 23, 1948 - March 02, 2024

Departed: 03/02/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Funeral services will be held for Bruce Anderson of Watkins on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Karvonen Funeral Home in New York Mills. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service at the funeral home. Pastor Mark Koivisto will be officiating. The Pallbearers are Jadon Anderson, Josh Anderson, David Anderson, Bryan Anderson, Bruce Anderson, and Eric Leigland. Military Honors will be provided by the Charles D. Center VFW Post #3289 of New York Mills and the Minnesota Army National Guard of Moorhead, Minnesota. Bruce will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery in New York Mills, Minnesota.

Bruce Melton Anderson was born on June 23, 1948, in Park Rapids, Minnesota.  His parents were the late Melton Russell and Esther Ailie (Hasti) Anderson. Bruce grew up on the family farm north of Ponsford and attended Andrews Country School on the Ponsford Prairie.  He later attended Parker Rapids High School. Bruce went to the Wadena Vocational Technical College for automotive detailing school.  Bruce served honorably in the United States Army in Germany from June 26, 1969, to June 18, 1971.

During the 1970’s Bruce worked trapping minnows and leeches in the Basswood Lake area.  He made his home for a short time in Wadena and then made his home in St. Cloud for thirty years and most recently he settled in Watkins, Minnesota.

Bruce enjoyed numerous activities such as working with Uncle Vern, driving a CAT, baking bread, babysitting, building roads and working at the sawmill near Waubun. Bruce was a very kind person who enjoyed visiting with family and friends on the phone, and he would often “bless them”.

A special thank you goes out to his caregivers who provided kindness, dedication, and compassion to Bruce for years; they not only attended to his physical needs, but also provided him with comfort and solace. Their tireless efforts did not go unnoticed and are appreciated for becoming additional family to him.

On March 2, 2024, Bruce, passed away peacefully at the CentraCare Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota at 75 years of age. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Preceding Bruce in death are his parents Melton and Esther (Hasti) Anderson; siblings Sharon and Steven; sister-in-law, Carol Anderson; brothers-in-law Robert Moe and Ken Keezer.

Bruce is survived by sisters Virginia “Gini” (Ron) Oines of Park Rapids, Susan Keezer of Waubun, Linda Anderson of Twin Valley, Elizabeth (Steve) Lindahl of Black Duck, Kristine Powell of Bemidji, and Jodi Dey of Bemidji; brothers Harold (Georgia) of Fergus Falls, John Anderson of Fergus Falls, and Terry Anderson of St. Cloud; many other relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

Roger Karger - February 16, 1938 - February 29, 2024

Departed: 02/29/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Roger Karger, age 86, of Perham, Minnesota passed away on February 29, 2024 at Perham Health in Perham. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Northwoods Life Church in Perham. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at church.

Roger Karger was born on February 16, 1938, in Parkers Prairie, MN to Herman and Gladys (Larson) Karger. He attended Parkers Prairie High School and received his diploma in 1958. Roger then continued to join the United States Army in 1958 where he would remain for five years of service. He was honorably discharged in 1963, and later became a salesman at Carr’s Marine.

Roger was united in marriage to Elizabeth ‘Betty’ (Inwards) Karger on November 18, 1961, in the North Effington Church in Parkers Prairie, MN. Their marriage blessed them with four children, which they raised on Buchanan Lake before moving to Perham, MN in 2015. Sadly, Betty passed away in 2017.

Preceding Roger in death by parents Herman and Gladys Karger; wife Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Karger, and son Tracy Karger.

Roger is survived by his sister Connie Koch, children Terry (Julie) Karger, Trudi Karger, and Tim Karger; grandchildren Taylor (Taylor) Karger, Tanner (Jaden) Karger, Kiley Karger, Tristan (Shania) Karger, Ty Karger, Alijia Medrano (Micajah), Oscar Lucas Medrano, and Zari Medrano; great-grandchildren Brekker Karger, Savannah Karger, Gideon Karger, and numerous family and friends.

View Full Obituary

Phyllis M Isackson - August 09, 1926 - February 28, 2024

Departed: 02/28/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Preceded in death by her husband Ervin, son Gordon, grandson Nathan, parents Ignatius and Elsie Salo, and brothers: Marvin, Leroy, Sherman, and Donald.

Survived by daughter Erveen (David) Matson, grandchildren Cathlin (Shawn) Sandler and Brian (Katherine Robertson) Matson. Sisters: Darlene, Myrtis, and Myrna.  Brothers: James, Ronald, Mervil, Calvin, and Gary.  Brothers and Sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Phyllis farmed in Leaf Lake Township with her husband Ervin for over thirty years.  Later she moved to New York Mills and then Perham.

Phyllis worked in housekeeping at the New York Mills Hospital for fifteen years followed by fifteen years in housekeeping at the New York Mills Elders Home.

After retirement she split her time between Minnesota and California and was fortunate to do a lot of traveling with her companion of thirty years, Marvin Hanka.  Phyllis loved gardening, crocheting and watching the sunsets at Rush Lake and Thousand Palms.

View Full Obituary

Marie (Martin) Gruidl - September 01, 1954 - February 23, 2024

Departed: 02/23/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Marie was born on September 1, 1954, to Allen P. and Lorraine E. (Cunningham) Martin in Vancouver, Washington. She grew up alongside her brother Allen (Marty) in Battle Ground, Washington and went to Battle Ground schools.

She was a mother to six children with her first husband.

She worked as a nurse’s aide for many years until she obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing degree from M State Community and Technical College (formerly called Vo-Tech) in Detroit Lakes in 1994. She then worked as a nurse at Med Center One nursing home in Mandan, ND until she had to retire due to health issues in 2000. She then went to work for a call center in Bismarck, ND until her full retirement in 2001.

She spent her retirement with her children and grandchildren, moving from Bismarck to Detroit Lakes and finally to Jamestown, ND where she entered her heavenly rest on the evening of February 23, 2024, surrounded by her children.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Robert Martin, nephew Matthew Martin, grandson Ruben Pedersen, and son-in-law Gaylen Schmuhl.

She is survived by her husband Gregory Gruidl of Bismarck, ND; her children: Donna (Gerald) Hanson of Detroit Lakes; Lars Pedersen of Detroit Lakes; Sara Schmuhl of Jamestown, ND; Warren Pedersen of Lake City, MN; Julie (David) Heflin of New York Mills; Andrew (Felisha) Pedersen of Detroit Lakes; her 16 grandchildren, her two great-grandchildren; her brother Marty (Sherrie) Martin of Palmer, AK, and a host of Christian family and friends.

View Full Obituary

Jesse Erickson - February 24, 1944 - February 22, 2024

Departed: 02/22/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Jesse Aaron Erickson was born on February 24, 1944 in Wadena, Minnesota.  His parents were the late Elmer and Maxine (McPeck) Erickson.  Jesse grew up on the family farm in rural Wadena where he attended District #10 Country School in Leaf Lake Township graduating from the 8th grade.  Jesse served honorably in the United States Navy from February 20, 1964 to February 17, 1967.   He was employed at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota as a surgeons assistant and then moved to Montana where he worked at various logging camps.

On October 28, 1972 Jesse was united in marriage with Rita Hildegard Theisen at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Grey Eagle, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed with two daughters, Amy and Tracy.  They made their home in Wadena for 19 years.  Jesse was employed for 20 years as  a section hand for the Burlington Northern Railroad, retiring in 1992.  In 1996 Jesse and Rita made their home on the Otter Tail River in Ottertail. During retirement Jesse worked with his daughter, Tracy at the Super 8 Motel.

Jesse was known for his love for music and would dance all night long.  He enjoyed playing guitar with his daughters and grandsons.  Jesse was quite the entertainer for many neighborhoods get togethers, he also enjoyed joining in at Saturday night Masses at St. Anns Catholic Church in Wadena.

He was born with a special gift of non-stop talking till Rita would say, “Jesse, maybe someone else would like to talk.  He would stop for a minute and start right back up again.  Jesse also enjoyed fishing and deer hunting, but especially loved talking and telling stories to his grandchildren.

Jesse was a member of the American Legion, New York Mills VFW, Knights of Columbus, Ottertail Rod & Gun Club and the Brotherhood of Maintenance Way Union.

On February 22, 2024 Jesse passed away at the Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, North Dakota at 79 years of age.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  Preceding Jesse in death were his parents, Elmer and Maxine Erickson and his daughter, Tracy Frost.

Jesse is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Rita Erickson of Ottertail; daughter, Amy Erickson of Kingman, Arizona; 4 grandsons: Herman, Elliot, Francis and Oliver; sisters: Audrey Peterson of Wadena and Carol (Rich) Taggart of Wadena; son-in-law, Chris Frost of New York Mills; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

James "Jim" Parks - August 06, 1960 - February 12, 2024

Departed: 02/12/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: James “Jim” William Parks was born on August 6, 1960 at St. John’s Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.  His parents were the late William “Bill” and Fidessa “Dessie” (Farbo) Parks.  The Parks family made their home in Perham, Minnesota where Jim attended high school.

On May 30, 1978 Jim was united in marriage with Michelle Kay Goins in Sisseton, South Dakota.  They were married for 19 years and blessed with two children: Rebecca and James Ryan.  Jim honorably served in the United States Army from January 9, 1978 to January 8, 1979.

Jim resided in Perham, Minnesota and attended Wadena Vocational Technical College where he received a degree as a Cable Television Technician.  In the 1980’s Jim resided in Beaumont, Texas where he was employed installing cable television.  He enjoyed taking his children to the beach and deep sea fishing.  Jim loved to host get togethers where he would specialize in barbecue brisket and crawfish boils.

Since 1994 Jim has resided in Perham, Minnesota.  He was employed at Lund Boats  and then Bongards.  He loved spending time with family, friends and going hunting, fishing, riding snowmobile and four wheeling.

On February 12, 2024 Jim passed away peacefully at his home in Perham, Minnesota at 63 years of age.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  Preceding Jim in death were his parents, William “Bill” and Fidessa “Dessie” (Farbo) Parks.

Jim is survived by his two children: Rebecca (Chris) Opskar and James Ryan Parks; three grandchildren: Brody, Ryder and Sadie; Siblings: John (Tami-Jo) Parks, Jerri (Kevin) Dykoff and Jeff (Cindy) Parks; nieces & nephews: Anna (Mike) Deuter, Mary (Allen) Burns, Kayleigh (Marty Sazama) Dykhoff, Cory Dykhoff, Kyle (Haley) Dykhoff (with one on the way), William (Hope) Parks, Morgan (Zach Langendorfer) Parks and Tayler Parks; great-nieces & nephews: John, Nick, Tyler Millett, Austin Lucia, Macoy and Huxley Dykhoff; many other relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

Clayton Hahn - November 27, 1928 - February 09, 2024

Departed: 02/09/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Clayton Duane Hahn, age 95, of Frazee, Minnesota (formerly New York Mills) passed away on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Frazee Care Center with his family by his side.

Clayton Duane Hahn was born on November 27, 1928, in the family home near Echo, Minnesota to Rudolph and Velma (Marquardt) Hahn. He was baptized at Peace Lutheran Church in Echo, Minnesota on December 16, 1928. Clayton started his schooling in a one room schoolhouse west of Echo. In 1935, the family moved to Verndale, Minnesota where he finished his education in Country School District 66 of Todd County. In 1946, Clayton enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Germany and Japan before being honorably discharged in 1949. Clayton worked for a few years before enlisting in the United States Navy, serving from 1952 to 1956 when he was once again honorably discharged. During his time in the Navy, he was stationed on the USS Arcadia.

Clayton was united in marriage to Norma Gibbs in 1953 and to this union one son was born Marshall, the couple later separated. In 1960, he was united in marriage to Elise Jasmer and to this union one son was born Tommy, the couple later separated but remained very good friends later in life.

Clayton worked many jobs in his lifetime; Bredeson Construction in Wilmar, Minnesota, farming, Bottling Works in Wadena, Minnesota, owned a small grocery store in Staples, Minnesota, drove a milk truck, salesman for the Star Tribune, truck driver for Cenex, and lastly, he finished his working career at R.D. Offutt in Perham, Minnesota for 21 years.

Clayton loved taking the kids around the area, coon hunting and fishing with him, it put a huge smile on his face. He enjoyed his time outdoors, camping, fishing, and hunting with his hounds and with the guys. He loved playing Yahtzee, solitaire, and pinochle with all the grandkids and great grandkids who he loved dearly.  Clayton loved spending time with his family and would be the one to organize family reunions or tracking the genealogy. He was a jokester, a prankster, and a strong-willed man that enjoyed his Western movies and books.  He would always make munchies for Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, everyone had lots of laughs and a few refreshments. Clayton had a strong faith in God. He had coon hounds and was a Lifetime member of the trail hound Association. He was crowned the Frazee Care Center King in 2023. Deeply loved, Clayton’s passing will be mourned by his sons Marshall Prescott and Tommy (Brenda) Hahn; his four grandchildren: Travis Hahn, Danielle (Scott) Hawley, Nicholas (Jennifer) Prescott and Chelsea Prescott; his eight great-grandchildren: Autumn Denny, Aynsley, Hunter, and Grayson Hahn, Paige and Payton Hawley, and Kylie and Logan Prescott; his siblings Marlowe Hahn and Gayle (Terry) Langer; brothers-in-law Charlie Jasmer and Frank Windels; and many nieces, nephews and a host of friends. He left a hole in all of our hearts with his passing and will be sadly missed by many people!

Clayton is preceded in death by his parents Rudolph and Velma, and his siblings: Faye, Gloraine, Marge, Delores, Jan, Jean, Argyle, Mary, and Dennis.

The family would like to extend a thank you to all the staff at the Frazee Care Center and the Hospice of the Red River Valley nurses for the excellent care shown to Clayton.

View Full Obituary

Alice "Toots" Erkenbrack - August 01, 1925 - February 04, 2024

Departed: 02/04/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Alice “Toots” Erkenbrack, age 98, of New York Mills, Minnesota passed away on February 4, 2024, at Mills Manor in New York Mills.

Alice “Toots” Erkenbrack was born on August 1, 1925, in New York Mills, Minnesota. Her parents were the late Lawrence and Dorothy (Johnson) Cooley. Toots attended country school in Heinola and New York Mills High School.

On April 10, 1948, Toots was united in marriage with Audrian “Erky” Erkenbrack in Alexandria, Minnesota. Together they made their home in Parkers Prairie where Toots worked as a waitress. While Erky served in the United States Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954 Toots stayed with her sister, Irene, in Long Lake, SD.

Toots and Erky made their home in Lynwood, California where Toots worked as a waitress and housekeeper at a local motel. They moved to Idaho Falls until Erky’s retirement and then made their home in Alpine, Wyoming. In their spare time Toots and Erky enjoyed snowmobiling, elk hunting and moose hunting. Toots also enjoyed cooking for people and loved thrift shops. In 2000 Toots and Erky returned to Minnesota, making their home in rural Wadena and most recently New York Mills.

Toots enjoyed fishing and gardening. She loved playing cards, bingo and word search games.

Preceding Toots in death are her husband, Audrian “Erky” Erkenbrack; parents, Lawrence and Dorothy Cooley; siblings: Lawrence, Delphine, Loraine, Irene, Geraldine, Evelyn, Leslie, Edgar, Carolyn, and Linda.

Toots is survived by her siblings: Margaret “Peggy” (Don) Bjelland; John (Karin) Cooley; and Sharry (Gordie) Wallace; many close relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

Gloria Curtis - August 16, 1946 - January 31, 2024

Departed: 01/31/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Gloria Diane (Wick) Curtis was born August 16, 1946, at Rice Hospital in Wilmar, Minnesota, to Marvin and Luella (Mindermann) Wick.  She was baptized on October 14, 1946, at Bethlehem Lutheran Parsonage, Frazee Minnesota, her sponsors were Marie and Emil Wick.  Gloria was confirmed on April 10, 1960, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Frazee Minnesota.  She graduated from Frazee High School on May 28, 1964.

Gloria and Roger Curtis were united into marriage on February 18, 1966, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Frazee Minnesota. Gloria and Roger were blessed to have four children Marsha, Douglas, Denise and Ross.

Gloria worked at the Senior Center as Manager, Elders Home as a Cook, The Eagles Café as a Waitress, and a Punch Card Operator in Minneapolis.  She was involved in the Homemakers Club, Trinity Lutheran Women Mission League, and VBS Superintendent.  Gloria loved to crochet, knit, sew, and tend her flower garden.  She was an avid reader, movie buff, and enjoyed the music of Neil Diamond.  Gloria also loved wild Tiger Lilies, sunrises, sunsets, and hummingbirds.

Deeply loved, Gloria’s passing is mourned by her husband of 57 years Roger; children: Marsha Parlow of Robbinsdale, Minnesota, Douglas (Michelle) Curtis of Wadena Minnesota, Denise (Shawn) Nelson of Barnesville, Minnesota, and Ross Curtis of Chaska Minnesota; nine grandchildren: Dustin Schlenker, Kendra Burger, Stephen Parlow, Raine Curtis, Seth Parlow, Zoe Curtis, Reece Nelson, Corabeth Curtis, and Reagan Nelson; five great-grandchildren: Juvia Burger, Hunter Schlenker, Riley Coyer, William Burger, and Alison Coyer; siblings: Linda (Ray) Vogle of Fargo, North Dakota and Darrell (Nancy) Wick of Frazee, Minnesota.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents Marvin and Luella Wick.

View Full Obituary

Verlys Jean Hanson - March 12, 1936 - January 25, 2024

Departed: 01/25/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Jean Hanson was born on March 12, 1936, in Wadena, Minnesota. Her parents were Clara Nyberg Hanson and Otto Hanson. Jean grew up on a farm in Vining, Minnesota, and was baptized and confirmed at Vining Lutheran Church. Jean graduated from Henning High School with the class of 1954.  She spent much of her life in Maple Plain and Long Lake, MN. Jean worked at Three Rivers Park District for many years as an accountant. She enjoyed playing bingo, going to casinos, and reminiscing about growing up on the farm. She had great fun with her grandchildren. She was known to practice playing video games to beat them and was an amazing knee hockey goalie!  She was kind, loving, funny, and always stylish!  Jean passed away January 25, 2024, at Riley Crossing in Chanhassen, Minnesota, at 87 years of age. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Preceding Jean in death were her parents, Clara Nyberg Hanson and Otto Hanson; brother, James Hanson; sister, Yvonne Winkler and daughter, Rebecca Pfeffer.

Jean is survived by her son Dan (Tracy) Pfeffer of Maple Grove, Minnesota; daughter Nicole Joynt of Chanhassen, Minnesota; grandchildren: Chandler, Jordan, Riley, Stone, and Hayden; great grandchildren: Hadley and Declan; nieces, nephews and friends.

View Full Obituary

Mitsuko Hoehne - December 26, 1934 - January 20, 2024

Departed: 01/20/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Mitsuko Nohara was born in the winter of 1934 in Tomori, Okinawa, Japan, and entered Glory on January 20, 2024, at the Veterans Home in Fergus Falls, MN. One of five daughters born to Seizen and Kamado Nohara, she never knew her exact birth date, but was assigned December 26th upon her arrival to the United States some 27 years later. Perhaps her parents had an inkling of what her future held when they called her Mitsuko, meaning “shining child”, as it was a name peculiarly suited to her.

As a 9-year-old child, Mitsuko and her family suffered and survived the bloody 82-day Battle of Okinawa. They hid in caves and tombs, forced to scrounge for food as the war raged around them. Despite the loss of close family members, her home, many friends, and much of her hearing during the siege, Mitsuko overcame great personal heartache and went on to build a rich life defined by hard work and determination, honesty, endless curiosity, and great love. In 1958, Mitsuko met and fell in love with Gilbert Hoehne, a young GI stationed in Okinawa. Gilbert returned home to Minnesota following his tour of duty. It took an act of congress to enable them to marry. With the help of Gilbert’s sister and Senator Hubert Humphrey, the US Congress acted under the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit Mitsuko entry into the United States for three months, and if married in that time-frame, permanent citizenship. The couple took no chances and married in Okinawa on November 17, 1961. Mitsuko, a proud US citizen, often said, “I been here so long, I’m American pioneer!”

Accustomed to a subtropical climate, Mitsuko arrived in Minnesota, without a coat, in the heart of a December blizzard. Mitsuko and Gilbert eventually purchased his father’s farm, south of Evergreen, MN, where they milked cows and raised crops and children together for 30-plus years before moving to Perham, MN.

Mitsuko was well suited for farm life and often had a week’s worth of bread rising on the counter before morning milking began. An avid gardener, her vegetable and flower gardens were prolific; she enjoyed canning and freezing the bounty, which she generously shared with her family. She also loved baking and cooking, keeping a tidy home, well-trimmed hair, clean shoe laces, fishing for sunnies from the shoreline, and grocery shopping. Mitsuko was baptized at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Corliss on August 30, 1964 and was an active member of the church throughout the years. At age of 50, Mitsuko earned her drivers license and reveled in the freedom it brought her; the streets of Perham were never the same again!

Mitsuko loved with the same fierce determination with which she worked. She had high expectations for her children and encouraged them to be honest, work hard, and be wise with their time and money. She revered education and insisted that her daughters, Maria and Delia, earn college degrees.

Having faced severe hunger in her youth, Mitsuko found great joy in feeding people, particularly her family. While she undoubtedly loved her children equally, she usually insisted that Steve have the first serving and largest portion of food at any meal, and urged him to take a quick nap when he had finished eating. Mitsuko was devoted to her grandchildren and knew each grandchild’s favorite food. From homemade Italian spaghetti sauce to curry rice, fried rice, tempura, cinnamon rolls, pretzels, peanut butter cookies, molasses cookies and more, Mitsuko was often in her kitchen, gently stirring and kneading and frying and baking – an expression of love for her children’s children. Mitsuko’s eye for detail sometimes found her walking (mid-service) from the back of the church to the front to smooth a cowlick or a collar; tucking in shirttails; straightening ties; or asking if you’d put on a little weight. Her bright smile, shining personality, and zest for life were a testament to her resilient and joyful spirit, proof that we are not defined by our tragedies, but by our love. We shall dearly miss our “shining child”, yet there is great comfort in imagining the smile on her beautiful face when the angels carried her Home and the Lord said, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant!

Mitsuko was preceded in death by her parents, Seizen and Kamado Nohara; sisters, Tomiko Nagata, Yoshiko Nakamura, and Toshiko Gushiken; and grandson, Logan Hoehne.

Mitsuko is survived by her husband, Gilbert Hoehne of Perham; children Maria (John) Minten of Brainerd, Steve (Tawnia) Hoehne of Frazee, and Delia (Jerry) Bruggeman of Brainerd; grandchildren Ryan (Camryn) Minten of Pequot Lakes, Rylee Minten of Fargo, Jordan (Kirstie) Hoehne of Dilworth, Skylar (Whitney) Hoehne of Frazee, Landon (Anna) Bruggeman of Loveland, CO, Brody (Maddie) Bruggeman of Brainerd, Elle Bruggeman of Fargo, Tia Bruggeman of Brainerd; great-grandchildren, Kash, Kaizlee, Rylee, Adlee, and Jack. She is also survived by her sister, Kazuko Kiyuna, of Okinawa, Japan, as well as many nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

Herbert Kath - January 06, 1935 - January 05, 2024

Departed: 01/05/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Herb Kath 88, went to heaven on January 5, 2024.  He passed into Jesus arms peacefully.   Herbs wife Lorraine and son Daniel met him at the pearly gates.  Herb retired from the Federal Reserve Bank as an Engineer.   He is survived by son Randy Kath (Kathleen)  daughter Darnell Galvin, grandchildren Jesse (Katie) Kath and Ryan (Melissa ) Galvin and Amy Jo Des Marais (Bryan).  Herb had 10 great grandchildren.  He will be remembered for his love of God, coffee and conversation with friends and neighbors and his generosity.  Rest in peace.

View Full Obituary

Thomas Tumberg - March 19, 1943 - January 05, 2024

Departed: 01/05/2024 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Thomas Raymond Tumberg was born on March 19, 1943, at home on the family farm in Deer Creek Township, Otter Tail County, Minnesota. His parents were the late Richard and Esther (Fiskari) Tumberg. Tom was baptized and confirmed at the Apostolic Lutheran Church in New York Mills. He graduated from New York Mills High School with the class of 1961. After high school, Tom farmed with his brother, Walter "Wally," in Deer Creek Township. Tom was enlisted with the Wadena National Guard from 1964 to 1970.

On April 29, 1989, Tom was united in marriage with Julie Ann Salo at the Apostolic Lutheran Church in New York Mills. Tom retired from farming in 1996 and was then employed with Crop Production Services (Professional Agronomy) in Wadena, until his retirement in 2013.

Tom enjoyed keeping up with the Minnesota Twins, Vikings, and the  PGA. Growing up, he, along with his brothers, cousins, and friends, could often be found playing ball in the pasture after church. Tom played one season for the New York Mills Millers during the '60's. He  also enjoyed golfing on weekends with friends and family. After leaving the farm in 1996, Tom took pride in sticking to his farming roots by maintaining a well-kept yard in town and making sure his new "livestock" was always fed - the squirrels and birds. He always enjoyed the company of pets over the years, whether they were cats or dogs. During the winter months and after retirement, Tom would love to spend time in his woodshop designing and building furniture for the house, as well as crafts and gifts for family and friends. The amount of time, passion, and detail he put into his work was admirable.

Tom's faith in Christ and in the Church was strong throughout his entire life and never waivered. His smile was unforgettable, his laughter was contagious, and his stories would entertain you for hours. He cared for everyone and was one of the nicest guys you could know.

On January 5, 2024, Tom passed away peacefully at Perham Living in Perham, Minnesota, at 80 years of age. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  Preceding Tom in death were his parents, Richard and Esther Tumberg; his sister, Anne Tumberg; and his sister-in-law, Bobbi Tumberg.

Tom is survived by his wife, Julie Tumberg of New York Mills; children: Nathan (Michelle) Salo Tumberg of Spring Valley and Ricky (Rachel) Tumberg of New York Mills; 1 grandchild: Catherine (Kit) Salo-Tumberg; siblings: Walter Tumberg of New York Mills; Reuben (Ellen) Tumberg of Sebeka; Kenneth (Anna) Tumberg of Blaine; and Mary (John) Aho of Wadena; brother-in-law, Clifford Tumberg of New York Mills; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and a host of friends.

Please visit: www.nymalc.org/watch-live to view a livestream of Tom's Funeral Service.

View Full Obituary

The Families We Have Served ~ 2023 - January 01, 2023 - December 31, 2023

Departed: 12/31/2023 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: In Remembrance of all the families we have served in 2023. ~ Karvonen Funeral Home

Please disregard all flower options.

View Full Obituary

Dottie Haack - July 29, 1935 - December 28, 2023

Departed: 12/28/2023 (New York Mills)

Obituary Preview: Dottie Jeane Limbeck was born on July 29, 1935, in Lincoln, Nebraska.  Her parents were the late Walter A. and Evelyn Rose (Hall) Limbeck.  Dottie attended Omaha Tech High School and graduated with the class of 1954. In 1956 Dottie then graduated from Commercial Extension Business College.  Dottie was employed first at Guarantee Mutual Insurance for.  In 1957 Dottie made her home in Hopkins, Minnesota where she was employed at S&L Business at St. Louis Park, and Crown Meats in Minneapolis as their secretary.  On May 24, 1957, Dottie was united in marriage with William A. Haack in Mason City, Iowa.  Their marriage was blessed with 4 children. Dottie and Bill made their home in Minneapolis, where Dottie raised their children and Bill worked for Cargill in Columbia Heights for 20 years.  Dottie and Bill then resided on the family farm from 1965 to 1980 in Leaf Mountain Township, rural Evansville.  Bill passed away on December 17, 1980, and William Jr. moved back home to operate the family farm. She was the cook at The Old Mill in Urbank, Minnesota, and at The Peak Supperclub by Leaf Mountain. Dottie moved to Henning in 1984 where she owned and operated Heritage Inn Restaurant from 1985 to 1990 and later she was employed at J&J Restaurant in Henning until 1996.  Dottie moved to Ottertail in 1993.  Dottie was employed at Angler Inn from 1996-98 and then at Station House in Perham.  Dottie was also employed at Jerry’s Village Inn for a short time before retiring. She enjoyed shopping, collecting butterfly decorations and knickknacks, visiting with friends, reading, yard work, decorating, and traveling.  Dottie’s family is very important to her.

Preceding Dottie in death were her parents; husband: William; special friend: Eugene Lohse; brother: Ronald Limbeck; and son: William Haack Jr.

Dottie is survived by her daughters: Carrie Haack of Alexandria; Wendy (Chris) Wilson of Balsam Lake, Wisconsin; son: Michael Haack of Perham; daughter-in-law: Maria Haack of Hutchinson; 7 grandchildren: Stephan; Marrissa; Sheila; Brenda; Lea; Trianna; Casey; numerous great-grandchildren; sister: Kathleen (Vern) Weiland of Tucson, Arizona; brother: Corrie Limbeck of Perham; and many other relatives and a host of friends.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Funeral Services Offered

Karvonen & Son Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and celebrations of life, the funeral home's experienced staff will work with you to create a personalized service that honors your loved one's memory and provides comfort to those who are grieving. Some of the specific services offered include:

• Traditional funerals with visitation and burial
• Cremation services with options for memorialization
• Memorial services and celebrations of life
• Pre-planning and pre-funding options
• Grief support and counseling resources

The Importance of Pre-Planning

While it may seem difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can provide peace of mind and relief for your loved ones when the time comes. Karvonen & Son Funeral Home offers pre-planning and pre-funding options that allow you to make your wishes known and take care of the financial arrangements ahead of time. By pre-planning, you can:

• Ensure that your wishes are respected
• Relieve your loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions
• Lock in costs at today's prices
• Take advantage of available discounts and promotions

A Commitment to Community Involvement

Karvonen & Son Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the community it serves. The funeral home is actively involved in local organizations and events, providing support and resources to those in need. From sponsoring community events to participating in charity fundraisers, Karvonen & Son Funeral Home is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

The Karvonen & Son Funeral Home Team

The team at Karvonen & Son Funeral Home is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional service and care to each family they serve. From licensed funeral directors to administrative staff, every member of the team is committed to ensuring that every detail is taken care of, from the initial consultation to the final farewell.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're considering Karvonen & Son Funeral Home for your funeral needs, you may have some questions about what to expect. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions:

• What is the difference between a funeral home and a mortuary?

A funeral home provides a wider range of services, including visitation, ceremonies, and burials, while a mortuary typically only handles the preparation and transportation of the deceased.

• Do I need to purchase a casket from the funeral home?

No, you do not need to purchase a casket from the funeral home. However, if you do choose to purchase one from us, we offer a wide selection of high-quality caskets at competitive prices.

• Can I still have a viewing or visitation if I choose cremation?

Yes, many families choose to have a viewing or visitation before cremation. This can be a meaningful way to say goodbye and find closure.

Contacting Karvonen & Son Funeral Home

If you're looking for more information about Karvonen & Son Funeral Home or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced funeral directors, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone at [phone number], or by email at [email address]. Our office hours are [list office hours], but we are always available by appointment outside of regular business hours.

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 is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary website, or funeral home's website to inform friends, family, and acquaintances of the deceased's passing.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to notify others of a person's death and provide information about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members. It also serves as a way to honor and celebrate the deceased's life, share memories, and offer condolences to those who are grieving.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or obituary writer. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the deceased's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about memorial services, charitable donations, or other ways to pay tribute to the deceased.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or website where it will be published. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include photos, videos, or audio clips to enhance the obituary and provide a more personal tribute to the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

You can usually submit an obituary through the newspaper's website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Online platforms may have an online submission form or require you to create an account before submitting the obituary.

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 websites may charge a flat fee or per-line rate, while others may offer free or discounted rates for certain types of obituaries.

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

In some cases, yes. If you need to make corrections or updates to an obituary that has already been published, contact the publication or platform where it was published to inquire about their editing policies.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's death, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that provides more information about the deceased's life and legacy.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes! Writing your own obituary in advance can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and legacy. It can also spare your loved ones from having to write it during a difficult time.

Is it appropriate to include humor or lighthearted moments in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including humorous anecdotes or personality traits can help capture the essence of the deceased and make the obituary more engaging and relatable.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including certain details in an obituary, consider consulting with family members or close friends of the deceased. It's essential to be respectful and sensitive when sharing information about someone's life.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider enlisting the help of a funeral home staff member, professional writer, or online resource. They can provide guidance and support during this difficult time.

Can I republish an obituary from another source?

If you want to republish an obituary from another source, such as a different newspaper or online platform, be sure to obtain permission from the original publisher first. You may also need to reformat the content to fit the new publication's guidelines.

How long will my online obituary remain available?

The duration for which an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform or website where it was published. Some may keep them active indefinitely, while others may archive them after a certain period.

Can I create a digital archive of my loved one's life story?

Yes! Many online platforms offer tools and resources to create digital archives of loved ones' life stories, including photos, videos, stories, and other memorabilia.

What if I need to correct errors in an online obituary?

If you notice errors in an online obituary, contact the platform's customer support team immediately. They should be able to assist you in making corrections and updating the content.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share an obituary with a wider audience and reach people who may not have seen it otherwise.

How do I ensure that my loved one's online presence is respected after their passing?

To respect your loved one's online presence after their passing, consider setting up memorialization options on social media platforms or removing sensitive information from public view. You may also want to designate someone to manage their digital legacy.

What if I'm struggling with grief after writing an obituary?

If you're struggling with grief after writing an obituary, consider reaching out to friends, family members, or mental health professionals for support. Writing an obituary can be a therapeutic exercise, but it can also stir up emotions – don't hesitate to seek help when needed.