Elna Vivian Hill
September 12, 1927 • December 25, 2018

Elna Vivian Hill, 91, of Morris, Minnesota, died Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at the West Wind Village in Morris.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 31, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at the Federated Church in Morris. Pastor Lauren Hauger officiated. Visitation is Sunday, December 30, 2018 from 4 to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 at the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris, and for one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Summit Cemetery in Morris following the service.

Elna Vivian (Hoyer) Hill, daughter of Louis and Melanie (Bach) Hoyer, was born September 12, 1927 in the Hoyer home in Morris. She grew up and attended school in Morris graduating in 1945.  Following graduation, she worked in various jobs in Morris until she was united in marriage to Bennie Hjalmer Hill, August 16, 1952.

As a young girl, she spent her time helping and learning from her mom, while being protected by her brothers.  Her aunts and uncles also played a big role in her family life.  She learned to help others and volunteered during the war effort.  She was a founding member of the VFW Auxiliary and recently received her 70-year pin.  

She enjoyed spending time with and cooking for her large family, cats (Fud and Festus), dancing, Hallmark and Shirley Temple movies, listening to music and watching the squirrels eat peanuts off her window sill.  Later in life, she enjoyed sitting on her bench swing in the garage watching people pass by and visiting with friends and family.  She especially enjoyed finally being able to greet the many granddaughters and great-granddaughters having raised nine boys and no daughters.  

She is survived by her nine children: Benjamin (Barb) Hill of Jamestown, ND, Barry (Rhonda) Hill of Plano, Texas, Brian Hill of Wesley, AR, Blaine (Sue) Hill of Morris, Bradley Hill and daughter Kenney Hill of Morris, Brent (Sandy) Hill of Benson, Bart (Julie) Hill of Madison, Blair (Sheila) Hill of Mitchell, SD and Brooks (Jodi) Hill of Morris; 21 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers: Lloyd Hoyer of Morris, Louis (Doris) Hoyer of Columbus, OH and Duane (Karen) Hoyer of Rochester, and her special friend Kenneth Rucktaeschel of Morris.  

She was preceded in death by her husband Bennie Hill, one infant son Boyd Hill, a step-son Kenneth Hill, her parents; infant sister Elaine Hoyer, and brothers Harris (Tookie) Hoyer and Merlin Hoyer.

Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris was in charge of the arrangements.
 

JAMES A. LYE
December 11, 1942 - December 30, 2018

James A. Lye, 76, of Danvers, Minnesota, Marysland Township, Swift County, died Sunday evening, December 30, 2018, at the Swift County Benson Hospital.

Visitation was Saturday, January 5, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Big Bend Lutheran Church in Big Bend, followed by the funeral  service at  1:30 p.m. Interment was in the West Bank Cemetery.  

James Andrew Lye was born December 11, 1942, at the Swift County Hospital in Benson, the son of Bennie and Helen (Larson) Lye. He was baptized and confirmed at the West Bank Lutheran Church. He grew up in the Danvers area and attended country school in District #62 and Benson High School. James served our country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After the war, he returned to the farm in Marysland Township.

Farming was something Jim truly loved, it was his life. He enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Danvers Liquor Store. In visiting with Jim you were sure to hear him share his favorite saying “Goldarn type of thing.” He was called from this life Sunday evening, December 30, at the Swift County Benson Hospital. He attained the age of 76 years and 19 days.

He is survived by his brother Edward (Ruth) Lye of Akron, Colorado; his sister Gloria (Dwayne) Preheim, of Parker, South Dakota, two nieces, four nephews, and several other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bennie and Helen and his brother Donald “Doc” Lye.

Zniewski Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.  Blessed be his memory.
 

MARY JOSIEPHINE JOHNSON
July 4, 1947 – January 1, 2019

Mary J. Johnson, 71, died Tuesday, January 1, 2019, at the Meadow Lane Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Visitation will be held Monday, January 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson. Interment will be in Benson City Cemetery.

Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.  www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 

CLINTON E. SCHUERMAN
February 11, 1944 • January 3, 2019
 
Clinton Eugene Schuerman, 74, of Danvers, Minnesota passed away peacefully surrounded by family January 3, 2019, at the Appleton Care Center, Appleton, Minnesota.

Visitation was held 1-2 p.m., followed by the Memorial Service at 2 p.m., Tuesday, January 8, 2019, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Benson. A private family burial will be held in Danvers at a later date.

Clint was born February 11, 1944, to Ervin and Viola (Loeschke) Schuerman with three siblings: Lavern (Mary) Schuerman, Jean (Jerry) Goff and Virgil (Marlene) Schuerman. Clint was baptized and confirmed at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Danvers. Clint grew up on the family farm in Marysland Township, attended Danvers Grade School and graduated from Benson High School in 1962.

Juggling morning and evening farm chores with his schooling, many hours were spent picking rock, baling hay, fixing fence and milking cows. As a 4-H member, Clint took pride in showing championship Holsteins at the Swift County and Minnesota State Fairs. Farming was his life. During his early years, the only time he was away from the family farm for an extended period was for Minnesota National Guard basic training, Fort Leavenworth, KS.

Clint served on the Pomme de Terre River Association, the Minnesota Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils, the Danvers First Responders, Marysland Township Board, 25 years with the Danvers Fire Department and 40 years on the Swift County Soil & Water Conservation District board.

Clint enjoyed traveling, snowmobiling, dancing, and fishing. Clint loved being around animals whether it was helping a newborn calf into the world, feeding wildlife in the backyard or taking pictures during trips. Sharing time with his family playing card and dice games were among his favorite things to do. He encouraged everyone to enjoy each day.

On the family farm, Clint became the father of five children: Richard (Michele) Schuerman, Linda (Don) Amundson, Donna Schuerman, Susanne (Peter) Wilson and Catherine (Brian) Weedman.

In 1999, Clint was united in marriage to Janice Dolan and became stepfather to Margie (Dave) Regner, Adam (Julie) Hughes, Casey (Dori Lund) Hughes, Nita (Kyle Baukol) Hughes, Jesse (Jodi) Hughes and Angie Dolan. Clint and Janice treasured their years of farm life, family and adventures together.

Clint was the proud grandfather of Seaver Amundson, Forrest Amundson, Genevieve Wilson, Vivienne Wilson, Blake Weedman and Emily Weedman. Step-grandfather of Jake (Tracy) Regner, Jenna (Kaleb) Farmer, Ben Regner, Billy Regner; Rebecca Hughes, Elizabeth Hughes, David Hughes, Kate Hughes, Molly Hughes, Ethan (Molly) Hughes, Krysta (Jake) Stevens, Tyler Hughes, Drake Hughes, Maggie Baukol, Luke Baukol, Brandon (Brittney) DeJong, Olivia Hughes and Amelia Hughes. Great-step-grandfather of Karson Farmer, Scarlett Farmer, Stella Farmer, Westin Stevens, Elena Hughes and Korbin DeJong.

Arrangements were with Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson.
Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .

MARVIN DALE DIEKEN
February 7, 1934 • January 4, 2019

Marvin Dale Dieken, 84, passed away in the morning January 4, 2019 at home in Naples, FL surrounded by his family.
Memorial services are planned for Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church in Naples, FL. Luncheon to follow at the church.

Marvin was the third son born to Richard and Lena (Boike) Dieken,  February 7, 1934 in Clara City, Minnesota.

He married the love of his life, Virginia Eid, October 6, 1956 at Bergen Lutheran Church, Montevideo. Together they were blessed with 62 years of marriage and three children.

Marv worked for Variety Supply Company (VSC), Inc. in Clara City for 36 years, lastly as the Vice President of Merchandise. He enjoyed his work traveling often across the country and loved interacting with people, including his colleagues, vendors, and clients. He retired in 1987 due to his multiple sclerosis (MS) which he was diagnosed with in 1965. After his retirement, they moved from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Naples, FL. Marvin became an artist specializing in acrylic paintings, canvases, and framing and assisted numerous artists in the area with their canvas and framing needs.

Those who knew Marv know that his strong faith, eternal optimism, and sincere kindness to anyone he interacted with were qualities he will be best remembered for. His positive attitude and optimistic outlook showed through in everything he did, and he credits his ability to live as well as he did (including being able to walk up until his last week of life despite living with MS for over 53 years) as the driving force. Marv enjoyed life - often assisting other people living with MS, serving his church, spending time outdoors, going to the beach, and spending time with his wonderful family and friends.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Arthur (Marion) Dieken, Walter (Etta) Dieken; and niece Kathy Niemeyer.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia, of 62 years; son Bradley Dieken of Naples, FL; daughters Pamela (Tom) Anderson of Benson, Minnesota, and Michelle (George) Woodman of Naples, FL; six grandchildren: Ashley Anderson, Justin Anderson, Taylor Dieken, Jordan Dieken, Lindsey Woodman, and Madison Woodman; two great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends; and beloved companion dog, Stanley.

Marv's kind heart and gentle spirit shed light to many, many people throughout his lifetime and we will miss him dearly. Blessed be his memory.

For online condolences, please visit www.fullernaples.com.

DOROTHY F. SCHLAGEL
August 19, 1927 • January 4, 2019

Dorothy Florence Schlagel, 91, of Willmar, Minnesota (formerly of Murdock) died Friday, January 4, 2019, at Copperleaf Assisted Living.  Visitation was from 10-11 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 10, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock.  Interment will be in the church cemetery at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  

Dorothy Florence Schlagel was born August 19, 1927, in Clara City, Minnesota, the daughter of Joseph and Florence (Schoen) Eisenreich.  She grew up in the Murdock area and graduated from Murdock High School, Class of 1946.
 
September 25, 1948, Dorothy was united in marriage to Francis H. Schlagel at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  They made their home on a farm west of Murdock in Dublin Township.  Dorothy was a wonderful homemaker and enjoyed helping Francis with the farm work.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Altar and Rosary Society, the Quilting Group and Ladies Aid.  She loved flowers, gardening, yard work, square dancing, playing cards, traveling, and hosting family events.  Dorothy was a giving person and was generous to charities.

Dorothy passed away Friday, January 4, 2019, at Copperleaf Assisted Living.  She attained the age of 91 years, four months and 15 days.  

She is survived by her son, William “Bill” Schlagel of DeGraff; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Francis Schlagel, October 15, 1991; her parents, Joseph and Florence Eisenreich; sisters, Margaret, Sally and Pat; and brothers, Francis and Clarence “Kelly” and their spouses.
 
Blessed be the memory of Dorothy Schlagel.

Arrangements were with Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson.
Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com 
 

KURT W. SIMMONDS
April 3 - January 16, 2019

Kurt W. Simmonds, 53, of De Graff, Minnesota died Wednesday morning, January 16, 2019 at his home in De Graff. Visitation was held Friday, January 18, 2019, at the St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in De Graff from 4-7 p.m. and continued Saturday for one hour prior to the service. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 19, at the St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in De Graff. Interment followed the service in the St. Bridget’s Catholic Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Glioblastoma-American Brain Tumor Association.

Kurt William Simmonds was born April 3, 1965, in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Joseph William and Carol Jean (Ashburn) Simmonds. He was baptized April 19, 1965, at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in De Graff. He was confirmed at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church. He grew up in De Graff, graduated from Benson High School, and attended Ridgewater Vo-Tech in Willmar for Auto Mechanics.

June 22, 1985, Kurt was united in marriage to Melanie Dee Rode at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Benson. This union was blessed with over 33 years of marriage and two children. Kurt worked at Supreme Pet Foods, Simmonds Fertilizer, Quast Trucking, Dooleys Petroleum, and Custom Roto-Mold. He was a member of the De Graff Fire Department, the De Graff Park Committee, and the De Graff Labor Day Committee. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, canning, grilling, traveling, and farming. He loved working and talking smart with his family and friends. Kurt loved life and believed in helping others. He was called from this life Wednesday, January 16, at his home in De Graff surrounded by his family. He attained the age of 53 years, nine months, and 13 days.

He is survived by his wife Melanie of De Graff; his daughter Natasha (Brody) Hagen of Benson; his son Cameron Simmonds of De Graff; his parents Joe and Carol Simmonds of De Graff; a sister Jean (Brad) Hanson of Benson; two brothers, Randy (Michelle) Simmonds, and Al (Janelle) Simmonds both of De Graff; nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, and his mother-in-law and father-in-law. Blessed be his memory.

Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson assisted the family with the arrangements.
Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

JOSE LAZARO DE ORTECHO
June 15, 1930 – January 17, 2019

Jose M. Lazaro de Ortecho, 88, died on Thursday evening, January 17, at his home in Benson. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Interment will follow the service in the Benson City Cemetery. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.

VERNON GEORGE CHEVALIER
June 8, 1929 – January 17, 2019

Vernon “Bud” Chevalier, 89, Benson, Minn., died Thursday, January 17, 2019, at Minnewaska Lutheran Home in Starbuck.  Visitation will be from 4–7 p.m., with a 5 p.m. Rosary and 7 p.m. Prayer Service, Sunday, January 20, 2019, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson.  Visitation will continue from 10–11 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., Monday, January 21, 2019, at St. Francis Catholic Church.  Interment will be in St. Malachy Catholic Cemetery in Clontarf. 

VICKIE MARAS BAHL
March 3, 1955 • January 14, 2019

Vickie Maras Bahl began her journey March 3, 1955 in Benson, Minnesota, being born to Viola and Robert Maras.  After graduating from Benson High School, she attended college in the Twin Cities, then came back to Danvers where she was Assistant Manager at the Danvers Liquor Store. 

Following her marriage to Glenn Bahl August 11, 1989, and becoming mom to Shannon, Torina, and Eric they lived near Big Bend, then in Holloway.  She worked in the mail room at Prairie Correctional Facility in Appleton.  She loved camping, being at the lake, and spending time with family in Minnesota.  A big change came for this country girl, when she and Glenn moved to Washington State in 2001.  She became a pharmacy tech for Wal-mart, then a grandma five times! 

She loved going to the lake, watching the grandkids and being with Papa (Glenn). She and Glenn resided in Marysville until she needed hospice care due to advanced stages of dementia.  Her earthly journey ended January 14, 2019 in Everett, WA.

Vic is survived by her husband Glenn, mother Viola (Don) Olson, children: Shannon & Ben (Hammond) Torina & Brent (Tangen) and Eric and Lorna Bahl; grandchildren: Devin Bahl, Ronnie Sweet, Kyler Tangen, Kolby Tangen and Greta Hammond; three brothers and three sisters.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Alzheimer’s/Dementia research. 

A celebration of life will be held in Swift Falls, Minnesota and Stanwood, WA at later dates.

DAVID L. CRATER
July 12, 1944 • January 21, 2019

David L. Crater, 74, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota died Monday, January 21, 2019, at the MN Veterans Home Fergus Falls.

Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. The service was 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 26, 2019 at Olson Funeral Home Chapel, Fergus Falls. Clergy was Chaplain Paul Hohncke Interment was in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Little Falls.

David was born July 12, 1944 in Havana, Illinois to Ralph E. and Mildred (Onken) Crater. In the summer of 1953, David moved with his family to a farm near Miller, South Dakota. After a few years in South Dakota, the family moved to De Graff, Minnesota where they continued to farm.  

David graduated from Benson High and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served his country in the Vietnam War.  After serving, David returned to Minnesota where he worked for area farmers as well as Sandy's Cafe in Benson.  

December 29, 1990, David married Camie Ehlke in Fergus Falls.  David has been a resident of the MN Veterans Home Fergus Falls since May of 2013.  

David is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, James and John Crater.

David is survived by his wife, Cami (Ehlke), son Paul William Nelson, sisters-in-law Alice Crater and Ann Crater and mother-in-law, Pat Ehlke.

Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls is in charge of arrangements.
 

SHARON LYNN NAGEL
July 20, 1962 - January 28, 2019

Sharon Lynn Nagel, 56, died on Monday Morning, January 28, 2019, at her home in Benson. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 1, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at the First Evangelical Free Church in Benson, and will continue on Saturday from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, followed by the funeral service at 10:30 am. Interment will follow the service at the Benson City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Lustgarten Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 

SUSAN M. HUSTON
January 15, 1946 • February 1, 2019

Susan M. Huston, 73, of Grover Beach, California (formerly of Benson, Minnesota) died Friday, Feb. 1, 2019 at her home in Grover Beach.

Susan was born January 15, 1946 in Benson. She graduated from Benson High School and went on to obtain a drafting degree. She moved to California and worked in drafting and later changed careers to plumbing and worked for San Jose County for many years. She retired to Grover Beach to enjoy the beach and the Monarch butterflies.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Lydia (Anfinson) Huston and two brothers, James (Rhoda) Huston of Benson and Robert (Cathy) Huston of Orlando, Florida.

She is survived by her brother, William (Linda) Huston of Orlando, Florida and numerous nieces and nephews.
 

Daniel John Hughes
April 4, 1954 – February 5, 2019
Funeral Notice
 
Daniel John Hughes, 65, died Monday morning, February 5, 2019, at Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Meyers, Florida.

Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, February 13, 2019, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson. Visitation will continue from 10-11 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 14, 2019, at Church of the Visitation in Danvers. Interment will be in Church of the Visitation Cemetery.

Arrangements are with Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson.  www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

Lee John Sather
March 25, 1960 • February 3, 2019

Memorial services for Lee Sather of Glenwood, Minnesota, were held Monday, February 11, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Indherred Lutheran Church in Starbuck, Minnesota with Rev. Paul Johnson officiating.  Visitation was Sunday from 5-7 p.m. at the Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck and continued one hour prior to the service at the church Monday.  Burial was in the church cemetery.

Lee John Sather, son of Paul and Gladys (Erickson) Sather, was born March 25, 1960 in Starbuck, Minnesota.  Lee grew up on a farm south of Benson.  He was baptized and confirmed at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson.  Lee graduated from Benson High School in 1978.  After graduation, Lee attended North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND where he received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business.  Following his schooling, he returned to the Starbuck area where he worked for Ascheman Oil Company and Ag Vise.  In 2003, Lee began working at Jennie-O Turkey Store in Montevideo where he was employed until the time of his death.  

Lee enjoyed cross country skiing, traveling all over the world and was an avid runner. He will be remembered as being smart, kind and willing to help anyone.

Lee died unexpectedly Sunday, February 3, 2019.  He was 58 years old.

He is survived by his twin sister: Lynn Sather of Starbuck; uncle: Arthur Erickson of Glenwood; aunt: Ada Erickson of Starbuck and many cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents: Paul and Gladys Sather; grandparents: John and Inga Sather and Arnold and Hannah Erickson and several aunts and uncles.

Starbuck Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

To send condolences to the family please visit www.starbuckfh.com
 

Thelma Sorenson
June 29, 1939 • February 3, 2019

Thelma Sorenson, 79, of Chaska, Minnesota (formerly of Arlington) passed away at Auburn Manor in Chaska,  Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019.

A memorial service will be held at the Chapel at Auburn Manor in Chaska at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16. A time for relatives and friends to gather will be one hour prior to service time at the Chapel. Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.

Thelma Jean Sorenson (Brichnac) was born in Bagley to Frank and Alma (Johnson) Brichnac,  June 29, 1939.

Nov. 21, 1959, she married Gordon Delano Sorenson in Bagley. Thelma was primarily a homemaker, though she also worked at several companies during her lifetime. She loved floral gardening, woodworking with her husband, being outdoors, and fishing with her family.

She is survived by her daughter: Tracy (Jim) Kappes of Kerkhoven; sons: Talley Sorenson and Brian Sorenson both of Shakopee; grandsons: Thomas and Christopher Kappes; and three siblings. Thelma is preceded in death by her husband; parents; grandson, John Christian Kappes.

JOANN FENNELL
October 22, 1928 • February 7, 2019

JoAnn (Josephine Ann) Fennell, currently of Berwick, ME (formerly of Benson, Minnesota) passed away at Gosnell House, a hospice care center, Thursday, February 7, 2019.  

Funeral services will be held at a later time at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Benson.  Burial is planned for the St. Francis Xavier cemetery.  Announcements for visitation and services will be forthcoming.

JoAnn was born to John and Gertrude (Margach) Gilronan, October 22, 1928, in DeGraff, Minnesota.  She graduated from the West Central School of Agriculture in 1946.  

August 30, 1947, she was united in marriage to Ward Fennell at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in DeGraff.  JoAnn spent her life raising her 10 children and truly enjoyed being a part of their lives.  She also played an important role in the support of her and Ward’s business in the Benson Ambulance Service.  JoAnn also enjoyed years of golfing and traveling with Ward, until health limited their activities.   For many years, JoAnn was a talented seamstress, from alterations to clothing to quilting - for herself, her family, and many others.  She made sure all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, had a quilt from her.  She enjoyed making homemade donuts with her family. They were delicious and a treat to all!  She was also known as a fiercely competitive card player and frequently took the winnings of many pennies, nickels and dimes home with her: unless she was playing with her grandchildren.  She didn’t like to win against them…sometimes.

JoAnn is survived by her children; Patricia (Patrick) Meger, Maricopa, AZ; Maridee Eide, Sioux Falls, SD; James Fennell, St. Paul; Charles (Pam) Fennell, Marshall; Anthony (Judy) Fennell, Ft. Myers, FL; Helen Mansur, Berwick, ME; Elizabeth (Doug) Johnson, Berwick, ME; Thomas (Beth) Fennell, Sauk Rapids; Celeste (Randy) Nelson, Tampa, FL; Maria (Duane) Schlieman, New Ulm.  JoAnn is also survived by her 17 grandchildren; Jonathan Fennell; Chad (Teri) Fennell, Nicholas (Amber) Fennell, Kelly (Derek) Dahl; Amanda (Blaine) Lokhorst; MacKenzie (Ashley) Fennell, Alexandra (Dan) Aberle; Miles (Jamie) Johnson; Lucas (Brittany Good) Johnson; Mitchell (Casey) Fennell; Alicia (Eric) Wilaby; Shane (Alyssa) Fennell; Sam Nelson; Jade (Cal) Aplin; Sarah Schlieman; Molly Schlieman; Matthew Schlieman.  Also surviving are 17 great grandchildren; Chloe Fennell, Piper Fennell, Allison Fennell, Isaac Fennell, Brylee Dahl, Brielle Dahl, Briggs Dahl, Addison Lokhorst, Hollis Lokhorst, JoAnna Aberle, Aiden Johnson, Hannah Johnson, Caden Fennell, Quinn Fennell, Porter Wilaby, Holten Wilaby and Hadley Aplin.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband Ward, sister Mary Lou Gilronan, brother Mike Gilronan, brother John Gilronan, sister-in-law Pearl Schliep and son-in-law Vern Eide.

We know Dad was waiting for Mom with open arms, but she certainly will be missed.  God Bless you Mom!

Please sign the guestbook at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .
Arrangements were with the Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson.
 

DANIEL JOHN HUGHES
April 4, 1954 • February 5, 2019

Daniel John Hughes, 65, of Glenwood, Minnesota died Tuesday morning, February 5, 2019, at Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Meyers, Florida. Visitation was held 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, February 13, 2019, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson. Visitation continued from 10-11 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 14, 2019, at Church of the Visitation in Danvers. Interment was in the Church of the Visitation Cemetery.

Daniel John Hughes was born April 4, 1953, in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Thomas Anthony and Madeline "Jiggs" (Hofmann) Hughes. He was baptized April 12, 1953 and confirmed June 20, 1966 at Church of the Visitation in Danvers. Dan grew up on the family farm north of Danvers, the oldest of eight kids. He attended Danvers Elementary School and graduated from Benson High School in 1971.

July 12, 1975, Dan married Jeena Marie Lamppa at Our Redeemer’s Church in Benson. This union was blessed with over 43 years of marriage and two children, Jessica and Nathan. They resided on a farm north of Danvers until 2010 when they moved to their home on the lake in Glenwood. Dan loved working the land alongside his dad and brothers in his early farming career and went on to start Hughes Trading Company along with his wife then later with his son Nathan and wife Erika. In 2000, Dan and Jeena started Stony Ridge Foods, a soybean processing plant that evolved into a dry bean operation that his daughter Jessica and husband Joe later joined.

Dan was a member of Church of the Visitation Danvers where he was on the church council, lecturer, and taught confirmation class. He was also a member of the North Central Bean Growers and Dealers Association, and was on the Dry Bean Council.

Dan was an entrepreneur, with an Irish wit, and sparkle in his blue eyes. He welcomed many on a fishing trip and into his home with him and his family.

Dan enjoyed hunting, fishing trips to Canada, spending time on the lake with his fishing buddies- granddaughters, Madi and Paige, going to Florida, traveling, visiting with friends, farmers, and he loved being with his family.

Dan passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children February 5, 2019 in Fort Myers, Florida. He attained 65 years, 10 months and one day.

Daniel is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Jeena Hughes; two children: Jessica and Joe Wrobleski, Benson, Nathan and Erika Hughes, Danvers; three granddaughters: Madilyn and Paige Wrobleski, and Aria Hughes; his siblings: Tim and Carrie Hughes, Danvers; Rebecca and Bill Beard, Golden, CO; Neil Hughes, Willmar; Thomas Hughes Jr., Benson; Mathew Hughes, Benson; Michael and Rebecca Hughes, Renville; and Barbara and Dan Damm, Spicer; his mother and father-in-law, Joan and Roger Lamppa, Virginia, Minnesota, along with aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Madeline "Jiggs" Hughes, and both of his grandparents, Daniel and Loretta Hughes and Joseph and Mary Hofmann.

Blessed be the memory of Sugar Bear/Beanman.

Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
Arrangements were with Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson.

MARY JANE MCGEARY
October 8, 1919 • February 12, 2019

Mary Jane McGeary, 99, died Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at Scofield Place in Benson, Minnesota. Visitation was from 2-5 p.m., with a 5 p.m. Prayer Service, Sunday, February 17, 2019, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson.  Visitation continued  from 10-11 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., Monday, February 18, 2019, at Visitation Catholic Church in Danvers. Interment was in the Visitation Catholic Church Cemetery in Danvers. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Rice Hospice.

Mary Jane McGeary was born October 8, 1919 in Faribault, Minnesota, the daughter of Mary Ann Langseley and Peter George Banken.  Mary was baptized at Immaculate Conception Church in Faribault; shortly thereafter, the family moved to a farm north of Appleton.  Mary graduated from the Appleton High School, then continued helping her parents on the farm.  Her faith was nourished at an early age when she and her family became involved in parish life at St. Agnes Church, a rural church located only a half mile from the Banken farm.

January 24, 1940, Mary was united in marriage to Harold McGeary at Visitation Church in Danvers.  Mary and Harold raised 11 children on a farm five miles northwest of Danvers.   She was an organizer and knew how to multi-task long before the word ever became popular. Besides sewing, Mary took great pride in raising a large garden and processing its produce so the family would be well-fed and well-dressed at all times.

In 1985, Harold and Mary moved to Westwood Apartments in Benson.  From 2001-2011 Mary was employed at Westwood Manor to serve the hot catered meals that were brought to Westwood each day.  Of the many activities Mary was involved in, she probably will be best known among family and friends for her sewing.  She spent countless hours sewing for weddings, altering clothes for any occasion and patching well-worn garments to make them look like new.

Mary was a “woman of strength” whose deep faith, especially her devotion to Our Blessed Mother, was integral to who she was and all she did.  No matter what else was happening, Mass attendance and church activities were a priority.  She enjoyed being a CCD catechist at Visitation Church in Danvers for many years and was also an active member of the Altar and Rosary Society. Though not a car driver, she managed to hold leadership positions in the Society, helped clean the church, made pies and served at church dinners.

Mary had endless energy; whenever there was a need, she was there to help.  This included offering care to Harold until his death in 1999.  She delighted in family gatherings and often managed to convince everyone that any occasion was important enough to come together and celebrate.  Mary was resourceful and faced the challenges of life with the Gospel attitude “love casts out fear”. (l John 4:18)  She enjoyed: sewing, quilting, gardening, flowers, bread-making and card playing.

Mary Jane is survived by one sister, Irene (Austin) McGeary;  11 children:  Sister Kathleen McGeary, OSB., Crookston; Douglas (Pamela) McGeary, Omaha, NE; Dennis (Elaine) McGeary, Oklee; David (Patricia) McGeary of Bismarck, ND; Patrick (Cheryl) McGeary, Danvers; Thomas (Patricia) McGeary, Benson; Monica (Robert) Doyle, Clontarf; Joseph (Lois) McGeary, Danvers; MaryAnn (Richard) Doyle, Spicer; Harold McGeary, Jr. Sauk Rapids; Edward (Betty) McGeary, Sartell;  24 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and three great, great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, and five brothers:  Theodore Banken, Floris Banken, Paul Banken, Frank Banken and Raymond Banken.

Mary Jane McGeary died February 12, 2019 at Scofield Place in Benson at the age of 99 years, four months, four days.

May her memory be a blessing to everyone!

Arrangements were with Zniewski Funeral Home.  
www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

RUTHIE STADSVOLD
January 26, 1934 • February 18, 2019

Stadsvold, Ruthie, 85 of Plymouth, Minnesota passed away at home February 18, 2019.  

Funeral services were 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 25 with visitation 3-6 p.m. Sunday at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel, 15800 37th Ave. (at Vicksburg Lane).  Interment was in the  Gethsemane Cemetery, New Hope.

Ruthie was born in Glenwood, Minnesota to Chester and Sophie Carter, January 26, 1934. Ruthie enjoyed going to the lake, baseball, football, golf, and spending time with her family.  

She was preceded in death by Don, her husband of 59 years; brothers and sister, Bud, Paul, Calvin, Bill, Dorothy, Lloyd, John and Marvin.  

She is survived by children: David (Elaine), Brian (Bing), Donna (Matt) Stadsvold-Eich and Diane (Doug) Nims; grandchildren, Shila (David) Heeter, Jay, Brianna, Kaitlin, Shelby, Carter and Jake; great-grandsons, Gavin and Alex; brother, Don (Marlys) Carter; sister, Mary McGuiness; nieces and nephews.