Jane Lofgren Strating

Strating
A Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m. Nov.  9 at First Presbyterian Church in St. Cloud for Jane Strating, 89, of St. Cloud, who passed away surrounded by her loving family at the St. Cloud Hospital Oct. 14, 2019. Pastor Darin Seaman will officiate and burial will be at Pease Community Cemetery in Pease. Friends and relatives may call from 5-8 p.m. Nov. 8 at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and also one hour prior to services at the church in St. Cloud on Saturday morning.

Lou Jane Lofgren Strating was born March 14, 1930, the second child of Margaret Donalda (Monson) and Axel Lofgren in Bigfork. Due to the untimely death of her mother, Margaret “Maggie” on March 24, 1930, she became the daughter of Ethel (Monson) and Herman Weidendorf. She grew up in Quamba and Mora, graduating from high school in May of 1947. Jane attended River Falls State Teachers College, and graduated from St. Cloud State Teachers College in 1951. She was united in marriage to Gerald “Jerry” Strating Aug. 3, 1951, at the Mora Methodist Church. Jane taught school in St. Francis, West Junior High in Duluth, Sauk Rapids Junior and Senior High School, and substitute taught many years when her children were growing up. She also was the secretary treasurer of the family-owned trucking business (St. Cloud-Duluth Truck Line) for 28 years. In 1964, the family moved from Mora to Sauk Rapids, and in 2009 to St. Cloud.

Through the years, Jane was charter president of the Mora Mrs. Jaycees, regional vice president, state chaplin and volunteer for the American Cancer Society, as well as a Cub Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, choir director of Mora Presbyterian Church, Christmas pageant director at Pease Christian Reformed Church and member of the YMCA. She  completed eight years of Bible study fellowship and attended Monday night Al Anon over 30 years. The last few years, she taught an adult Sunday school class and directed the chapel choir at the Tip O’ Texas, Pharr, Texas, their winter home. She served as a deaconess and elder in the Presbyterian Church.

Jane’s greatest joys in life were the safe return of her husband, Gerald from Korea, birth of her children and adoption of daughter, Ann. She looked upon each day as a gift, and tried to live it to the fullest. Her grandchildren brought great joy to her life, as did singing and studying God’s word. Jane had many hobbies: doing family histories, crocheting, sewing, knitting, baking, golfing, playing bridge, and offering a hand of assistance to anyone who was in need. Her chosen career was teaching; she never had a day she did not want to go to work. She dearly loved her students, and they thought highly of her. Jane had an uncanny ability to sense when someone needed a hug, cheery hello, a kick in the butt or words of encouragement. Her sense of humor was contagious. One of life’s greatest pleasures was entertaining in her home.

Survivors include her sons and daughter, Jerry (Kim) of Hartford, S.D., Thomas of St. Cloud, Timothy (Victoria) of St. Cloud, James of Reno, Nev. and Ann of St. Cloud; sister, Rosemary Soli of Leawood, Kan.; grandchildren, Brianne Michelau, Garret, Kyle, Lee and Jill Strating, Molly Kuper, Heather Kohl, Brandon Kohl, and Heidi Larson; great grandchildren, Rohnan and Ryker Michelau, Liam and Bennett Kohl, Claire and William Kuper, and Wyatt, Levi and Brooks Strating. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Ethel Weidendorf and Axel and Margaret Lofgren; husband, Gerald; and brother, Jerry Weidendorf.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online at http:// www.williamsdingmann.com.
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Bishop John Francis Kinney

Kinney
Bishop John Francis Kinney, bishop emeritus of St. Cloud, died Sept. 27, 2019, at Quiet Oaks Hospice in St. Augusta. He was 82.

The bishop’s body was received at 2 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud, followed by a private family visitation from 2-2:30 p.m. and public visitation from 2:30-8 p.m. A vigil service will take place at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 5, public visitation will continue from 8-10:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. with Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis presiding. Burial will be at Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud.

Bishop Kinney headed the Diocese of St. Cloud from 1995 until his retirement in 2013. An ardent supporter of Catholic social teaching, marriage, youth and collaborative ministry, he strove to lead in the spirit of the diocese’s mission statement: to be Christ’s ‘heart of mercy, voice of hope and hands of justice.’

“Bishop Kinney was a kind and gracious pastoral leader,” said Bishop Donald Kettler, who succeeded Bishop Kinney in St. Cloud in 2013. “He was a strong defender of the dignity of every human being, and his love for the Church was evident both in his public ministry and personal life. May our Father in heaven now receive him warmly into his arms.”

Bishop Kinney was born June 11, 1937, in Oelwein, Iowa, to John and Marie (McCarty) Kinney. His only brother, Bernard, was eight years older.

He graduated from DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis and held a bachelor’s degree from St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul and a doctorate in canon law from Lateran University in Rome.

He was ordained to the priesthood Feb. 2, 1963, at the Cathedral of St. Paul in St. Paul by Archbishop Leo Binz. Bishop Kinney served in several positions in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, including nine years as chancellor. On Nov. 16, 1976, Pope Paul VI named him an auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese. Archbishop John Roach of St. Paul and Minneapolis ordained him a bishop Jan. 25, 1977. Bishop Kinney served as auxiliary bishop from 1977 to 1982.

On June 28, 1982, Pope John Paul II named him the bishop of Bismarck, N.D. He was installed Aug. 23, 1982. On May 9, 1995, Pope John Paul II named him the eighth bishop of St. Cloud. He was installed July 6, 1995.

While serving as bishop in Bismarck and St. Cloud, Bishop Kinney wrote six pastoral letters on liturgy, youth, AIDS, the sacrament of penance, marriage and social justice.

In 1993, the then-National Conference of Catholic Bishops appointed him to chair an ad hoc committee on sexual abuse. During his tenure as chair, the ad hoc committee published “Restoring Trust,” a document then used by dioceses to address sexual abuse in the church. Following revelations of clergy sexual abuse around the country, Bishop Kinney set up listening and information sessions that he personally attended in parishes around the diocese. He used the sessions to understand the pain and concern of people in the diocese and to open doors for dialogue and healing.

Committed to the global church, Bishop Kinney served on Catholic Relief Services’ board of directors from 1993-98. Bishop Kinney helped the Bismarck Diocese establish a mission in Kenya. With Father Bill Vos, St. Cloud diocesan director of Catholic Relief Services, he initiated the partnership between the St. Cloud Diocese and Homa Bay Diocese in Kenya in 1999. The diocesan relationship with Maracay, Venezuela, was established in 1963 and became a Global Solidarity Partnership under Bishop Kinney’s leadership.

Bishop Kinney visited Homa Bay and Maracay. He made trips to other areas of close relationship and connection to the Diocese of St. Cloud, including to the Diocese of Agats, Indonesia, where the Crosiers ministered, and to South Sudan during and after the years of war to visit Bishop Paride Taban and other Southern Sudanese bishops. Other travels took him to Angola, Cambodia, Tanzania, Thailand, Vietnam and Zanzibar.

Pope Francis accepted Bishop Kinney’s retirement upon Bishop Kettler’s installation.

During his retirement he lived at the Speltz House in Sauk Rapids and remained an avid reader.
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Richard G. Seal

Seal
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Sept. 24 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids for Richard “Dick” Seal, age 83, who died Sept. 13, 2019, at the Country Manor Campus in Sartell. The Rev. David Hinz officiated and burial was in the church cemetery. Visitation was one hour prior to the services Tuesday at the church in Sauk Rapids.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Dick was born Jan. 15, 1936, in Wadena to Glendon and Phyllis (Fratzke) Seal. He served his country in the United States Army from 1960-62 and was stationed at the Pentagon. Dick married Kay Olhoft Dec. 1, 1962, and they later divorced.  He then married JoAnn Haakonson July 26, 1987. Dick was a sports writer and announcer who was inducted into the Sports Writers Hall of Fame. He loved watching, coaching and mentoring athletes. Dick was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and Sauk Rapids American Legion Post No. 254.

Survivors include his children, Susan Rivers of Big Lake; John (Lisa) Seal of Clearwater, Joel Seal of Fertile, Nick Seal of Elk River, stepchildren, Steve Haakonson of Ottertail, Dawn (Curt) Dingmann of Sauk Rapids, Michelle Bylander of Ottertail, Jim (Jenny) Haakonson of Texas; Jeff Haakonson (Carrie Adams) of St. Cloud, Stacy (Travis) Lund of Foley; 17 grandchildren and    nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, JoAnn; son, Terry; brother, Bill; stepsons, David and Haakon.
Obituary and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com

Our country is in mourning, a soldier died today.
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Susan R. Patton

Patton
Susan Rebecca Patton, age 44, St. Cloud, died Sept. 24, 2019, at the St. Cloud Hospital.

A funeral service celebrating Susan’s life will be take place at 11:30 a.m.  Saturday, Sept. 28 at Benson Funeral Home Chapel, St. Cloud. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home Saturday. Burial will be in Benton County Cemetery, Sauk Rapids, at a later date.

Susan was born Dec. 10, 1974, in St. Cloud, to Darrel and Virginia “Ginny” (Nodo) Patton. She graduated from Sauk Rapids High School, and graduated summa cum laude from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s in chemical dependency counseling. Susan worked at St. Cloud State University and also the Minnesota DFL Party. Susan was a strong advocate for human rights.

Survivors include her parents, Darrel and Virginia “Ginny” Patton of Rice; brother, Michael (Joyce) Patton of Rice; nieces, Becca and Tara Patton; nephews, Alex and Travis Patton and Michael Jones; and great nephew, Camdyn Jones.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Steven Patton, paternal grandparents, Lawrence and Hazel Patton, maternal grandparents, Nick and Ann Nodo, and fiancé Cary Sours
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Dolores M. Popp

Popp
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Rice for Dolores M. Popp, age 82, of Rice who died Sept. 25, 2019, at Quiet Oaks Hospice House near St. Augusta surrounded by her family. The Rev. Kenneth Popp, the Rev. Thomas Becker, and the Rev. Joel Hastings will concelebrate and burial will be in the parish cemetery.  Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to the services Saturday at the church in Rice. Christian Women prayed at 6:30 p.m. followed by parish prayers at 7 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Dolores was born Aug. 4, 1937, in Swan River Township to Martin and Susan (Jendro) Marstein. She graduated from Little Falls High School in 1955 and worked at First American National Bank in Little Falls. She met the love of her life, Ernest L. Popp at the Falls Ballroom and they married July 6, 1959, at St. Edward’s Church in Elmdale. Dolores worked at Gamble Robinson after her marriage and was a homemaker. Ernest and she lived in Rice and took over the family farm in 1961 as third generation owners. Dolores worked alongside Ernie in building the family farm. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where she was active in Christian Women. Dolores enjoyed gardening, cooking, flowers and puzzles. She was the glue that held her family together. Dolores was a great listener, devoted wife and took care of everyone. She was patient, kind, selfless and had a nurturing disposition.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, Ernest of Rice; children, Julie (John) Fromelt of St. Cloud, Howard and his friend, Casey Hoheisel of Rice, Lucinda (Lee) Kloek of Sauk Rapids, Russell (Karla) of Rice, Terence (Julie) of Rice, Teresa (Robert) Pankratz of St. Cloud, Nancy (Michael) Hartung of Holdingford, Ramona (James) Roering of Bowlus, Carmen (Randall) Honken of Sartell; brothers and sisters, Martin Jr. (Katherine) Marstein of Chandler, Ariz., Donald (Phyllis) Marstein of Bowlus, Rose Enghusen of Maple Grove, Eleanor Hastings of Effie, Evelyn (Richard) Barrow of Effie and 30 grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Chester and Francis Marstein.
Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com
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Earl H. Meinert

Graveside service was at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 18 at Langola Cemetery in Rice for Earl H. Meinert who passed away Sept. 15 at St. Otto’s Care Center in Little Falls. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

Earl Henry Meinert was born July 29, 1939, in Rice to Henry and Christina (Larson) Meinert. He was a farmer throughout his life on the family farm. Earl enjoyed riding and working on his bicycle, visiting with neighbors and growing vegetables for the Morrison County Fair.

Earl is survived by his brother, Victor (Karen) Meinert; niece, Emily Meinert; and great nephew, Henry Meinert, all of Rice. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Vernon; and sisters, Ethel and Alvina.

Obituary and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
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Robert "Bob" J. Gross

Gross
Memorial services were noon Sept. 20 at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Robert “Bob” J. Gross who passed away suddenly after a short battle with cancer Sept. 14, 2019, at his home in Sauk Rapids. The Rev. Thomas Olson officiated. Visitation was from 10:00 a.m. to noon Friday at the funeral home prior to the service.

Robert “Bob” J. Gross was born Dec. 31, 1946, in St. Cloud to Alfred and Genevieve (Korte) Gross. He attended Cathedral High School and went to college to receive an associate’s degree in drafting. He married Mary Jane Misho Oct. 5, 1968, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Bob and his wife had three children and lived all of their lives in the St. Cloud area. He worked in sales for Multiple Concepts Interiors for several years and later started his own business in sales and flooring. Bob was also musically talented and was very artistic. He enjoyed golfing, sports, deep sea fishing in Florida, crossword puzzles, watching movies and decorating his yard with Christmas lights during the holidays. Bob was smart, talented and loving. He was very proud of his family and enjoyed spending time with the grandchildren.

Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Jane of Sauk Rapids; children, Travis Gross of Hudson, Wis., Nadine (Ryan Christensen) Gross of Minneapolis, and Melany (Wes) Baldwin of Kansas; sisters, Janice Gross, Diana (Dave) Denny, and Sue (Dale) Lucas; seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Obituary and guestbook available online at http://www.williamsdingmann.com
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Maxine M. Hampson

Hampson
Memorial services were 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Maxine M. Hampson who passed away Sept. 7, 2019, at her home in St. Cloud. Visitation was one hour prior to service Friday.

Maxine M. Hampson was born May 5, 1941, in Ishpeming, Mich. to Carl and Sarah (Downey) Carlson. She worked all of her life as a registered nurse at Sauk Rapids Medical Clinic and Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Sauk Rapids. Maxine married her first husband, John Knutson Dec. 26, 1962. She then married John Hampson in August 1979. Maxine was a kind, fair-minded, creative and family-oriented woman who loved crafting, sewing, scrapbooking, gardening, reading, birdwatching and, most importantly, spending time with her family.

Maxine is survived by her children, Andrea (Lyle) Griner of Bloomington, Renee Erickson of Coon Rapids, and Aimee (Erik) Anderson of Sauk Rapids; sister, Linda (Vince) Mueller of Grand Haven, Mich; grandchildren, Aaron, Jaime, Sarah, Sam, and Christopher; many nieces and nephews; first husband, John Knutson of Rockville; and her dog, Dudley. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; and niece, Erin Lawson.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
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Darlene J. Gronau

Gronau
Funeral service was 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids for Darlene J. Gronau, age 83, of Sauk Rapids, who died Sept. 8, 2019, at the St. Cloud Hospital surrounded by her family. The Rev. John Beck officiated and burial was in the church cemetery. Visitation was from 4-7 p.m Thursday at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and one hour prior to the services at church Friday. Trinity prayers were at 6 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home in Sauk Rapids.

Darlene was born Dec. 8, 1935, in Minneapolis to Albert and Ruth (Oliger) Thoman. She married Richard C. Gronau  Sept. 11, 1954, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sauk Rapids. She was a legal secretary for Rinke-Noonan and lived in Sauk Rapids most of her life. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she was a past member of the altar guild. Darlene was also a past member of the Sauk Rapids Legion Post No. 254 Auxiliary. She enjoyed spending time with her family, going to plays and visiting with people. Darlene was a genuine, loving, generous, faithful person who always said, “I am blessed!”

Survivors include her daughter, Cindy (Bruce) England Sauk Rapids; granddaughters, Shannan (Mike) Houghton of Sartell, Celina (Jason) Gustafson of Becker; great grandchildren, Nolan and Lilly Houghton, Brandon and Carter Gustafson. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rich June 13, 2005; stepfather, Fred Lesse; and brother, Allan Thoman.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
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Jerome J. Post

Post
Jerome ‘Jerry’ Post, age 79, of Rice passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Aug. 10, 2019, at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center. Memorial Mass for Jerry was at 11 a.m. Aug. 14 at Immaculate Conception Church in Rice. Rev. Tom Becker officiated.  Visitation was Tuesday evening from 4-8 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church with parish prayers at 4 p.m. Visitation continued after 10 a.m. Wednesday also at the church. Burial with full military honors was at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls. Service with Dignity provided by Foley Funeral Home.

Jerome James Post was born Jan. 17, 1940, in Cold Spring, the son of William and Anna (Schwartz) Post. He graduated from Cathedral High School in St. Cloud in 1958, and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy where he was trained as a aviation electrician. He spent his career working for the city of St. Cloud as a firefighter for over 26 years, retiring in 1990. On July 5, 1965, Jerry was united in marriage with Phyllis Mossman at St. Augustine Catholic Church in St. Cloud. The couple raised their family in St. Cloud until moving to Little Rock Lake.

Jerry was very active in the East side VFW Post No.  4847 and a member of the Little Rock Lake Association. He was always there to help neighbors with a project. He enjoyed the outdoors, cutting wood, working on cars, playing miniature golf, and tinkering on anything and everything. He kept his mind sharp doing puzzles, cryptograms and jumble words. Jerry always enjoyed a game of cards with friends or family. He treasured spending winters in Arizona with Phyllis and their friends; always willing to help others and having fun calling bingo. Jerry especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, great grandchildren and granddogs.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Phyllis; daughters, Dana Post-Viswanathan (Steve Beck) and LeAnn (Shawn) Erickson; grandchildren: Kyle (Dana) Viswanathan, Keenan (Chelsea) Viswanathan, Otis (Melanie) Morris, Kashanie (Richmond) Swift, Bethany Erickson (fiancé: Brian Barlow), and Logan Erickson; great-granddaughters:  Elise, Jessa, and Stella Viswanathan; brother, Wally Post; sisters-in-law, Delphine Post and Janice Post; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Larry, Betty Killeen, Teresa Lansing, Katie May, Les, Carl, Al, Willie, Donald, Joe, Mary Ann, and Dennis.

Our Country Is In Mourning, A Soldier Died Today.
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Elizabeth C. "Betty" Benoit

Benoit
Mass of Christian Burial was 11 a.m. Aug. 7, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Elizabeth C. “Betty” Benoit, age 90, of Sauk Rapids, who died July 31 at The Good Shepherd Community. The Rev. Ralph Zimmerman officiated and burial was in the parish cemetery. Visitation was from 9-11 a.m. Wednesday at the church in Sauk Rapids. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.

Betty was born May 24, 1929, in Mayhew Lake to Valentine and Mary (Lehman) Schueller. She married Willard Benoit Sept. 8, 1947, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Betty was a homemaker and lived in Sauk Rapids all her life. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she was a life member of St. Monica’s Society (Christian Mothers). She was also a member of the Sauk Rapids VFW Post No. 6992 Auxiliary. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, embroidery, gardening, baking, playing cards and bingo. Betty was a loving and compassionate mother who had a great sense of humor and loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Steve (Donna) of Aitkin, David (Donna), Donald (Diane), Linda (Dayle) Tenney, Dan (Julie) and Rose, all of Sauk Rapids, Kevin (Sue) and Lisa (Brent) Griffith, all of Sartell; brother, Robert, of Foley; sister, Barbara Block, of Lastrup; 25 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Willard; children, Thomas, Tammy and Tina; sister, Marilyn; and brother, Raymond.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
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Carol Jean Abfalter

Abfalter
Mass of Christian Burial was July 30 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Carol Jean Abfalter, age 69, who passed away July 24 at her home. Rev. Ralph Zimmerman officiated and entombment was at Sacred Heart Mausoleum. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and one hour prior to the services Tuesday also at the church. Parish prayers and a time of sharing was at 7 p.m. Monday at the church.

Carol was born Oct. 9, 1949, in St. Cloud to Arnold and Yvette (Pogatschnik) Koepp. She was raised in the Sauk Rapids area and graduated from Sauk Rapids High School. Carol married Jim Abfalter on Sept. 18, 1971, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Carol was a homemaker and also worked as a paraprofessional with the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District for over 20 years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister, helped serve meals for the Journey in Faith group, sang in the choir and participated in the book club. She also was involved in the Discovery Church Bible Study and volunteered at the Paramount Theater with Jim. Carol enjoyed camping at the state parks and spending time at the lake with family. She also enjoyed gardening, flowers, reading, cooking, baking, playing cards, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. Carol had a strong faith and was a fun-loving, caring, gentle, trustworthy, sociable person who would always put others first. Most importantly, she was very proud of her family and loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Jim of Foley; children, Lisa (Steve) Wahlin of Sauk Rapids, Eric (Naomi) Abfalter of St. Cloud and Troy (Jenean) Abfalter of Duluth; brothers and sister, Alan (Judy) Koepp of Sauk Rapids, Kathy Pappenfus of Sartell, Kevin (Doreen) Koepp of Rice and Denny (Marie) Koepp of Milaca; grandchildren, Madison, Megan, Kayla, Kennedy, Elli, Theodore, Neiva and Maven; many nieces, nephews; and other extended family members and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law, Gary; and nieces, Melissa and Allison.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
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Eleanor C. Botzek

Botzek
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Eleanor C. Botzek, age 96, who passed away July 31 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Home in Sauk Rapids. Rev. Ralph Zimmerman will officiate and entombment will be at Hilltop Mausoleum in Sauk Rapids. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Friday at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and will be one hour prior to the services Saturday at the church. Parish prayers will be at 4:30 p.m. followed by St. Monica’s Society.

Eleanor was born May 20, 1923, in Sauk Rapids to George and Sally (Sadergaski) Rozeski. She grew up in Sauk Rapids and graduated from Sacred Heart School, Sauk Rapids High School and Drews Business College. Eleanor and worked at Woolworth’s for 38 years, retiring in 1985. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and St. Monica’s Society. Eleanor was a Twins fan and an avid bowler. She enjoyed hummingbirds, old time music and dancing every Friday night. Eleanor was easy going, independent and always concerned about her family and friends. She was a devoted Catholic and her faith was very important to her.
Survivors include her brother, Edward Rozeski of San Pedro, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews. Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Duane and Leonard Rozeski; sister, Sophie Chapp; and an infant brother.

Obituary and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
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Carol Ann Kittok

Kittok
Carol Ann Kittok, 65, of Sauk Rapids, joined the ranks of saints and angels July 24, 2019. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 31, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Rev. Ralph Zimmerman will officiate and entombment will be at Sacred Heart Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and one hour prior to the services Wednesday also at the church. Parish prayers will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the church.

Carol was born  Dec. 26, 1953, in St. Cloud and received into the loving family of Adolph and Gertrude Omann. Carol married the love of her life, Gerry May 14, 1982. She spent most of her life in Sauk Rapids, but that did not keep her from exploring the world through her travels, experiences, and reading.

A unique and talented soul, Carol enjoyed and thrived at gardening, sewing, crafting, cooking for the masses, and anything else she found interesting. She greatly enjoyed searching for agates, collecting beautiful marbles, playing cards (especially 500 and cribbage), and exploring, and loving on all of her grandchildren every chance she got. With all of her eclectic tastes, wonderful humor, numerous talents, and vast experiences, Carol was able to positively influence the lives of everyone she came in contact with. She is dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. We love you Carol.

She is survived by her husband, Gerry; her children, Jeremy, Jessica (Matt), Jordan (Jen), Michael (Cindy), and Stephen (Carly); nephew, Jonathan; grandchildren, Benton, Camryn, Greta, Logan, and Theo; and one grandchild on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph and Gertie; infant sister, Mary; and sister, Mary Jo.

The family would like to extend its sincerest and heartfelt gratitude to the St. Cloud Cancer Center, the oncology, medical progressive, and intensive care units of the St. Cloud Hospital, as well as the Melrose Hospital for treating Carol like family and providing the best care possible.

Obituary and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
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Audrey A. Posch

Posch
Mass of Christian Burial was 11 a.m. July 22 at Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake for Audrey, A. Posch, age 80, who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family July 17, 2019, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Rev. Thomas Becker officiated and burial was in the parish cemetery. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Sunday at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and one hour prior to the services Monday at the church. Parish prayers were at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Audrey was born May 21, 1939, in Little Falls to Wallace and Anne (Biniek) Pelkey. She married Clarence Posch May 29, 1961, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Little Falls. Audrey was a homemaker and a member of Annunciation Catholic Church where she was a member of the Christian Mothers, sang in the choir, and was a religious education teacher for over 25 years. She enjoyed taking road trips in the RV with her family, being in the sun, gardening, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family. Audrey was a loving, crafty, kind, and selfless person who gave compliments to everyone. She always had a smile that lit up the room, and most importantly she was very proud of her family.

Survivors include her husband of 58 years, Clarence of Rice; children, Debbie (Bob) Then of Rice, Brenda (Will Fallert) Regouski of Little Falls, Greg Posch of Rice, Gary (Meredith) Posch of Sauk Rapids, Anita (Rob) Lindholm of St. Cloud, and Leanne (Jason) Brown of Sauk Rapids; brothers and sisters, Gerald (Laurie) Pelkey, Marilyn Brennan, Robert (Marilyn) Pelkey, and Jeanette Ginter; grandchildren, Amanda, Brianna, Mackenzie, Brady, Cullen, Madelyn, Ethan, and Cooper; and her puppy, Snuggles. Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Rosie Meyer and Diane Pelkey.

Special thanks to the staff at Riverside Assisted Living in Royalton and the Acute Response Team at the St. Cloud Hospital for their amazing care.

Obituary, video tribute, and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
R-30-1B           

Martin A. Reker

Obit reker
Mass of Christian Burial took place at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 11 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Martin “Marty” A. Reker, age 55, who passed away July 4 at the St. Cloud Hospital. The Rev. Ralph Zimmerman presided and burial will be at Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud at a later date. Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday and one hour prior to services Thursday both at Sacred Heart Church. Parish prayers began at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home of Sauk Rapids.

Marty was born  Jan. 7, 1964, in St. Cloud to Frederick “Fred” and Rita (Bechtold) Reker. On July 3, 1982, he married the love of his life, Karen (Erpelding), at the age of 18. Marty was a practical individual gifted with a natural productive drive, a willingness to take risks, and exceptional financial finesse. At the age of 23, Marty established Reker Construction Inc. with his uncle Butch Bechtold. Together they built over 1,000 homes. They also built, owned, and operated Grandview Apartments in Sartell. As accomplished in his career as he was, Marty’s true pride was his family. He was an extraordinarily supportive, encouraging, and devoted husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. As a businessman and friend to many, Marty was both humble and respectful to everyone he encountered.

Marty and Karen have lived in the city of Rice for the past 26 years in three separate homes along the Mississippi River that Marty designed and constructed himself. Marty was a devout member of Sacred Heart Church and his Catholic faith provided the foundation on which he structured his life. He was a member of the Central Minnesota Builders Association, Sauk Rapids Knights of Columbus Council 11346, and was involved in numerous charitable institutions and endeavors. He was a passionate bicyclist and took great pleasure in boating, hunting, fishing, traveling and playing card games. Marty was ambitious, eternally optimistic and wise. He was an excellent listener, yet also a leader whom many turned to for advice. Marty was quick-witted, remarkably generous, welcoming and had a great sense of humor. He was exceptionally attentive, caring and helpful to those he loved. He was an all-around people-person and simply loved life.

Marty spent a significant amount of one-on-one time with each of his children. A few fond memories include playing Monopoly with his son Chad, fishing with his daughter Katrina, and taking his daughter Caitlin on long motorcycle rides as a young child. Chad also has special memories of table tennis tournaments and flying out to Illinois together to purchase his first sports car. Katrina is particularly grateful for Marty’s spontaneous visits to spend time with her and his grandchildren. Caitlin enjoyed going out to eat with her father and playing many games of cribbage.

Survivors include his wife, Karen of Rice; children, Chad Reker of Eden Prairie, Katrina (Daniel) Bogart of Sartell, and Caitlin Reker of Rice; mother, Rita of St. Cloud; siblings, Betsy (Jim) Westerhoff of Cold Spring, Matthew Reker of St. Cloud, and Leah (Dave) Wunderlich of Owatonna; grandsons, Joseph, Jacob, and baby on the way, Samuel Bogart; and nieces, nephews, godchildren, and many other family members. Marty was preceded in death by his father, Fred; sisters, Mary and Susanne Reker; and father and mother-in-law, Paul and Janet Erpelding.
The family would like to thank the nurses on Medical 1 Unit 5th floor at the St. Cloud Hospital who cared for Marty before his passing.
Memorials are preferred to Place of Hope and Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center (formerly Birthline).

Obituary, guestbook, and video tribute available online: www.williamsdingmann.com. 
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Thomas L. Rodgers

Graveside services were 9 a.m. June 18 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis for Thomas “Tom” L. Rodgers, 61, of Sauk Rapids, who passed away at his home June 10. Arrangements are entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids.

Thomas Leonard Rodgers was born Feb. 14, 1958, in Kokomo, Ind. to George and Beverley (Johnson) Rodgers. Tom graduated from Southwest High School in Minneapolis and shortly after, joined the Marine Corps. Tom has lived in the Sauk Rapids area for over 20 years. He played American Legion baseball after his service in the Marines and enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi River, playing guitar and singing. Tom was outgoing and it was easy for him to make small talk with anyone he met. He was always a very helpful person and had a very positive outlook on life.

Survivors include his brother and sister, Dan (Pauline) Rodgers of Anchorage, Alaska and Barb (Steve) Coleman of Minneapolis; nephew, Andrew Rodgers; and nieces, Emily (Brett) Duzenbery, Liv Coleman (Matt Lepinski), and Bliss Coleman (Joe Hutahaean). He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Gary Rodgers.
Obituary and guestbook available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
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Barry A. Burk

Barry A. Burk, 76, loving husband of Maxine “Micki” Burk of Lexington, S.C. (formally from Sauk Rapids), peacefully passed away Feb. 15, 2019, at Prisma Health Parkridge Hospital, Columbia, S.C.

Born Nov 12, 1942, in Pequot Lakes to Harry and Hildur Burk. He is survived by his loving wife, brother Bob (Carol), children Greg (Carolyn), Jason (Brenda), Stuart (Christine) Garner, and Donna (Ken) Murray; grandchildren Michael  (Courtney) Wolter, Amanda (Eric) Plude, Melissa, Sydney, Alli Burk, Kayla and Cole Teets, Taylor Garner, and great grandchildren Avery and Everly Wolter and Hudson and Milo Plude.

Barry exuded life through his calling to education where he taught at Sauk Rapids High School and the University of Minnesota until he retired after 32 years of educating professionally. He continued to educate his family through life lessons which will be valued forever. Barry walked God’s path as a member of Pine River United Methodist Church in Minnesota and Red Bank United Methodist Church in South Carolina. Cherishing his stories of camping, fishing, hunting and traveling via RV; Barry and his adventures will remain etched in our hearts forever.
Memorial service took place at Red Bank United Methodist Church, Lexington, S.C. on March 2, 2019.

Celebration of Life will be at 11 a.m. June 15 at Pine River United Methodist Church in Pine River.  Final resting place will be Blind Lake.
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Carol J. Hafner

Obit haffner
Carol Janice Haffner “Grabinski” Age 77 of Star Prairie, Wis. was born Oct. 27, 1941. Carol passed away after a short battle with an aggressive cancer June 5, 2019.
She is survived by children, Jeannine Haffner-Brekke, Rodney and Julie Haffner, Robin and Colleen Haffner, Todd and  Colleen Haffner, and Tammy Haffner. 14 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and one great great granddaughter, all who lovingly called her Grandma “GG”. Her siblings, Jean and Kenneth Wickmann, Bill and Sherry Grabinski, and Tom Grabinski; one very dear friend, Melanie Greenfield; many family and friends along with her beloved dog, Riley.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Delroy Haffner; her parents, Fred and Alma Grabinski; her in-laws, Richard and Ida Haffner; son, Scott Haffner; grandson, Joshua Schouten; son-in-law, Tom Brekke; sisters, JoAnn Grabinski and Barb Francis; and sister-in-law Deloris (Sis) Soderlund.

Visitation was from 5-7 p.m. June 14 at the Cullen Crea Funeral Home in New Richmond. Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday June 15 at  Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Richmond.

On June 6, 2019, Carol and Del celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, dancing once again together in Heaven.
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Ruth J. Nelson

Obit ruthnelson
Celebration of Life will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Ruth J. Nelson, age 91, who passed away June 9 at Chateau Waters in Sartell. Rev. Timothy Routh will officiate and entombment will be at Hilltop Mausoleum in Sauk Rapids. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home Saturday.

Ruth was born April 25, 1928, in Superior, Wis. to John and Agnes (Rood) Veltikold. After her mother passed away, her father married Gladys Rennelfeldet. Ruth came from a Norwegian family and Gladys taught Ruth English while she was growing up. She married Gordon “Gordy” Nelson Sept. 6, 1945, in Munson Lake. Gordy was the love of her life and “the angel without wings” as she would say. Ruth and Gordy lived many years in Brooten before they resided most of their lives in Sauk Rapids. She was a caregiver throughout her life and worked in sales, maintaining campgrounds and RV lots. She enjoyed dancing, camping and was musically inclined. She played the squeeze box and also knew how to play piano. Ruth was a hard worker who loved people and was full of fun and energy.

Survivors include her children, Ginger (Dana) O’Brien of Rice, Sharon (Ervin) Kosloski of Merrifield, Rod (Kay) Nelson of Farmington, and Barb (Craig) Leerberg of Colorado Springs, Colo.; 14 grandchildren; 35 great grandchildren; seven great great grandchildren; and nieces, Leona and Corinne Veltikold. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gordy on May 22, 2014; great grandson, Colin Kosloski; and step-brother, Jerry Veltikold.
Obituary, guestbook and video tribute available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
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