Woodland Hills Funeral Home Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Charles Alden Balstad JR, 62, died Monday, April 18, 2022 at MCHS- Rochester. Charlie was able to give one final gift as a tissue donor. Funeral services will be held at 1pm Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Mankato. Visitation will be held from 5-8 Monday April 25 at Woodland Hills Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held at Bethel Lutheran Cemetery near Winger, MN at a later date. woodlandhillsfh.com

Charlie was born May 10, 1959 to Charles SR and Mitzi (Erickson) Balstad in Fosston, MN. He graduated from Fosston High School in 1977 and went on get receive a BS in Economics at NDSU in 1982 and an MBA from Mankato State in 1999. Charlie was united in marriage to Twyla Presser on June 11, 1983 at First Lutheran Church in Mandan, ND. He farmed with his father and brothers until 1984 then worked as a hog buyer in the Vernon Center area until 2016 when he was promoted toprocurementdata analyst in Austin. In his free time he enjoyed time at the Balstad cabin on Long Lost Lake, elk hunting, fishing, skiing, snow mobiling, snowshoeing, travelling, barbecuing pork, and spending time with his family in any form. Charlie was a member of Hosanna Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his mother, Mitzi Balstad of Fosston; wife, Twyla Balstad of Austin; sons, Kyle (Lyndsie) of Kansas City, MO and Jack (Miki) Walton, NY; grandson, Darby Balstad Walton; brothers, Scott (Marlys) Balstad of Fosston, Richard (Sue) Balstad of Fosston, William (Liz) Balstad of Juneau, AK, Nate (Lisa) Balstad of Sheridan, WY, and Karl Balstad of Fosston; sister Laurie (Brian) Schmidt of Tomahawk, WI; and many well-loved nieces and nephews. Charlie is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and his father, Charles SR. Aunts and uncles, Robert and Juanita Balstad, Robert and Margaret Hoyt, Marjorie and George Olsen, Marcia Gingles Woodland Hills (507) 387 - 5504

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On April 10th, Mrs. Stephanie Ann Lockling suddenly passed away while on vacation in Duluth, MN from adverse complications from previous medical treatment. She was 56 years old at the time of her passing.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 3 P.M. at Woodland Hills Chapel in Mankato, with Pastor Mike Omtvedt, officiating. Interment will be in Woodland Hills Memorial Park in Mankato.

Visitation will be Tuesday afternoon for two hours prior to services at Woodland Hills Chapel. The Lockling Family requests that you wear a mask for the visitation and service if you have not been vaccinated.

She was born July 27th 1965 in Ventura, California to Clark and Beth Knapp Clintsman. Stephanie grew up in Minnesota. She graduated from high school in Stewartville. Later, she went to community college in Austin and Mankato State University to earn a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Later she redefined her career by attending the Art Institute of Minneapolis to earn certifications in culinary and baking where she pursued her passion for making baked goods baked with attitude as the Krabby Baker.

She was married in 2002 to her husband Chad W. Lockling and together they raised a family in Mankato. She loved to travel with her favorite visiting the French Quarter in New Orleans at Mardi Gras. Her adventures could be finding a new antique store or a new place to discover new flavors.

Stephanie had multiple hobbies of interest that ranged from cross stitching, reading science fiction fantasy, collecting pottery / dishes. She also loved cooking and baking. She often shared her passions by the connections she made with people over a cup of coffee.

She is survived by her spouse, Chad Lockling; son, Alex Megaw, daughter, Gwen Megaw, son, Jaron Lockling; mother-in-law, Vicki Lockling; sister, Tara Haynes; niece, Meaghan Clintsman; cousin, Laura Dawson, Pete and Julie Nixon and Claire Nixon; aunt, Margaret Nixon.

She is preceded in death by her father, Clark Clintsman and mother, Beth Knapp Clintsman.

Obituary Preview: Nick James Kowceun, age 75, of Mankato, died Saturday, April 9, 2022 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems, Mankato. A visitation will be from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 pm Saturday, April 16, 2022 at Woodland Hills Funeral Chapel with military honors to follow. A private family interment will be in Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.

Nick was born February 24, 1947 in Portland, OR to Nick and Esther (Hippauf) Kowceun. He served in the United States Marine Corp. from 1966 to 1968. Nick married Carolyn Anderson, October 5, 1968 at the Eagle Lake Church of Christ. His career included 43 years plus at Kato Engineering. Nick enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, golf, motorcycling, grilling, dart and pool leagues but especially time spent with family.

Nick is survived by his wife, Carolyn; 2 daughters, Tricia (Tom) Hering and Traci (Kowceun) Wallin both of Mankato; 5 grandchildren, Hunter and Halle Kowceun, Kylen Wallin, Ashlyn and Gavin Hering; sister, Jeanne Shanahan of NC; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in by his parents, brother, John Kowceun and brother-in-law, Jim Shanahan.

Obituary Preview: Ruth Orrine Ione Olson Forrey, 87, passed away at 10am Wednesday April 6thsurrounded by loved ones in body and spirit. Funeral services will be held at 2pm Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at Woodland Hills Funeral Chapel. Visitation will be held from 4-7pm Monday, April 11that Woodland Hills Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the services. Interment will be at Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Family will host coffee and cookies after the graveside service. woodlandhillsfh.com

Ruth was born June 2, 1934 to Oscar and Ida Olson in Eden Township, Winnebago County, Iowa. She graduated from Kiester High School and went on to get her RN Diploma from Naeve Nursing program. Ruth was united in marriage to Phillip Forrey on August 9, 1961 in Rapid City, South Dakota. She worked as an RN for many years at ISJ Hospital in Mankato. In her free time she enjoyed crocheting, knitting, sewing, canning, baking, cooking, going to Mystic Lake, Las Vegas, and traveling anywhere.

Ruth is survived by son, Pete (Sue) of Mankato; daughters, Hollie (Joel) Smith of Mankato, Carrie (Dave Rinehart) Laabs of Henderson, Jodie of Janesville, WI, Amie of Belle Plaine, and Jenifer (Dale) Lecy of Belle Plaine; grandchildren, Paige (Greg) Hawkins, Breanna (Ryan Pivec), Brooklyn (Jesse Williams), Patrick, Alex, Parker, Jonathan, and Ruth; great grandchild, Jaxson; siblings, David Olson (Cheryl) and Mona Hasche (Harold); brothers in-law, Hasche and Jim Forrey (Cyndy); sisters in-law, Kay Gaul, Carol Olson, and Pat Olson; many beloved nieces, nephews, and treasured family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; parents in-law, Hollie and C. Boyd Forrey; husband; great grandchild, Wyatt; sister, Carolyn; brothers, Raymond and Carlyle; sisters in-law, Fern Forrey, Phoebe Cummiskey, Eleanor Forrey, Beverly Forrey, and Mary Jo Rheaume; brothers in-law, Page Forrey, Gene Forrey, Jim Rheaume, Jerry Gaul; andEarl Cummiskey, nephews, Matthew Rheaume, Dwight Olson; and niece Margo Reiher. Special THANK YOU to St. Croix Hospice, Ecumen Pathstone, New Perspectives of Mankato and First Presbyterian Church of Mankato. Too many special caregivers, to you all ~ thank you!!! Nursing and Activities has been so important to mom’s fight – she finally won the battle!

Celebration of Life to follow at a later date. Woodland Hills (507) 387 - 5504

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Mildred (Millie) Mae (Musolf) Gunnink passed away on March 30, 2022 at New Perspective in Mankato, MN at the age of 87. She was born March 22, 1935 to Edward and Pauline (Manz) Musolf in Estelline, SD. She attended school there and graduated from Estelline High School in 1953. Millie attended South Dakota State in Brookings, SD for two years as a journalism major. She attended summer school at Spearfish, SD obtaining a teaching permit for one year which allowed her to teach 2nd Grade in Southshore, SD. She attended Dakota Wesleyan University obtaining an English teaching degree and then taught at Pierre and Lake Preston SD, Madison MN and also George and Rockwell City, Iowa. She went to summer school in Greeley, Colorado where she met Elwin Gunnink.They were married August 5th,1962 and moved to Rockwell City Iowa. In 1964, daughter Heidi Wyn was born and El took a new teaching position moving them to Mankato. Millie stayed at home, but created a neighborhood preschool with other neighbor moms and after Holly Jean was born in 1966, she later helped at Peter Pan Preschool when Holly attended. Millie worked part-time at TJ Hallmark in the Madison East Mall and eventually became the store manager. When Hallmark moved to the River Hills Mall, Millie worked part-time in the Hallmark section of Coach House Gifts. Millie volunteered in the community at the Blue Earth Co. Historical Society, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church where she was a member and sang in the choir, helped with VBS, Ladies Aid, LWMS, the Treasure Haus and New To You Thrift stores. Millie was active with the Blue Earth County Republicans, was an election judge for years, and helped with precinct caucuses. After she retired, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She and El loved to travel and visited Europe and many US states.

Millie is survived by her daughter, Heidi Wyn (Joel Brinker), daughter, Holly Erdman (Brent) and sister, Janet Robey (John) and brother Leroy Musolf (Carol) and grandchildren, Kent Harris (Alaina), Alexander Harris (Rita), Christian Harris (Ashley) and Kyra Beske (Ben), Bethany Reuter (Alex), Tresa Reuter (Bryce), Shawn Reuter, Emery Erdman and great-grandchildren, Landen, Spencer, Trenton, Hannah and Quinn, She is preceded in death by her parents, husband El, sister Vera Wilks, grandson David Reuter, and son-in-law Daniel Reuter.

Memorial services will be Sunday, April 3, 2022 at 2 P.M. at Woodland Hills Chapel in Mankato. Interment will be in Woodland Hills Memorial Park in Mankato.

The Gunnink Family will greet friends on Sunday afternoon from 12 P.M. until the time of services at Woodland Hills Chapel. Woodland Hills Funeral Home of Mankato is handling arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Violet Almira Jacobsen passed away peacefully on March 29, 2022at Waters Edge assisted living in Mankato at age of 92 1/2. A Celebration of Violet’s Life will be at Hosanna Lutheran Church on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at the 11:00 a.m. church service. A luncheon will follow.

The daughter of Norwegianimmigrants., Violet was born September 16, 1929 to Rudella and Sigurd Jacobsen in North Dakota. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York and later Succasunna, New Jersey where sheattended RoxburyHigh School through the 11th grade. At age 75 Violet completed her GED. She raised four children, David Roxanne, Allyn and Darlene in Succasunna as well. She retired to Florida, then Pennsylvania and then spent the rest of her life in Minnesota withfamily.

Violet was a wonderful homemaker who worked various jobs to give her children a wonderfullife. She was a girly girl who loved to get her hair and nails done, and to wear pretty jewelry. She was a real Joan Cleaver. She loved to travel and had an unwavering Lutheranfaith. She had a heart of gold and loved everyone so deeply. Her smile lit up a room and her laughteralways put you in a good mood. She was loved by everyone.

Violet is survived by her 4 children, David ( Colleen) Dehle, Roxanne Ippolito, Allyn Culleny, Darlene (Edward) Culleny-Frericks; 11 Grandchildren, Billy, Cali Rae, Jason, Shannon (Gregory), Amanda, Kelly (Mitch), Tiffany (Daniel), Kyle (Geordan), Joseph (Lea), Jennifer, Matthew (Jill), Stephanie (Miles); 16 Great Grandchildren, Owen,Sophia, Madeline, Mila, Lucus, Jacob, Everlee, Gianna, Dominic, Romam, Briella, Caleb, Carson, Alex, Evelyn, and Wyatt.

She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, Norman and Kenneth Jacobsen.

Obituary Preview: Darlene Ann Nelson died March 26, 2022 at Birchwood Cottages in North Mankato, MN. Memorial services will be held 11am Friday April 1, 2022 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with Rev. Jay Dahlvang officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services. Interment will be at Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Memorials are preferredto BENCHS or Bethlehem Lutheran Church.woodlandhillsfh.com.

Darlene was born January 1, 1949 to John and Edna Nelson in Minneapolis, MN. 1st baby girl born in Minneapolis in 1949. She lived in Zumbrota, MN until the age of 6 when the family moved to Mankato, MN. Darlene graduated from Mankato High School in 1967 and then graduated from Mankato State University with Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1971. She taught at Madison Elementary School, Blaine MN, Anoka Hennepin School District from 1971 to 2007 when she retired after a 36 year teaching career. Darlene was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Confirmation mentor for 3 years. She was passionate about teaching students to read, and also her dogs. She rescued 7 dogs and cared for 12 dogs during her lifetime. She was able to donate books and teaching materials to a local elementary school. She enjoyed reading, playing piano, musical theater, camping in the north woods, PBS and spending time with her family and being a wonderful Aunt and Great Aunt.

Preceded in death by parents, John and Edna Nelson, and brother, Lee Nelson.

Survivors include sister-in-law, Cheryl Nelson of Farmington, MN, sister Jeanne (Randy) Henegar of Zebulon, NC, and sister Donna (Lance) Quick of North Mankato. Nieces and nephews: Matthew Nelson, Portland, OR, Jessica Nelson, Farmington, MN,Ben Henegar of Wendell, NC,Travis (Julia) Henegar of Apex. NC, Adam Quick (Marit Peterson) of Minneapolis, Sarah (Justin) Quetico of Duluth, MN, Emily Quick of Minneapolis, MN. Also grand nephews and niece Gustav and Torvald Quick, Iris and Walden Quetico, cousins and friends. Woodland Hills (507) 387 - 5504

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Barbara "Barb" J. Johnson, age 88 of Cleveland, passed away on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at her home surrounded by her family.

Private family services will be held. Woodland Hills Funeral Home of Mankato is assisting the family with arrangements.

She is survived by her son, Dave (Mary) Johnson of Shakopee; daughter, Deb (Jeff) Kessler of Le Sueur; son, Dana (Jamie) Johnson of Brainerd; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; by many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Darrell; daughter, Belinda Booth; daughter-in-law, Julie Johnson; sister, Georgia Kessler.

Obituary Preview: Mankato resident Todd James Smith, age 49, died Sunday, March 13, 2022 at his home. A Celebration of Todd's Life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 30, 2022 at Woodland Hills Funeral Home in Mankato. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service.

Todd was born July 23, 1972 in Mankato to Steven and Connie (Weeding) Smith. Todd will be remembered for his quick wit and ease to entertain with his many life stories and adventures. His best memories were spent riding his Harley with all his brothers while he lived in Colorado. Todd had a very creative mind and loved to sketch and even spent time creating rings from spoons and forks. He was employed at Midwest Knife Makers where he learned to craft knives and work with leather cutting, stitching and dying sheaves for various styles of knives.

Todd is survived by his mother, Connie Smith of Mankato; 1 brother, Tim (Colette) Smith of Mankato; many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Todd was preceded in death by his father, Steve; grandparents, Ed and Gladys Weeding and Inez Steinke.

Obituary Preview: Woodland Hills Funeral Home 507-387-5504

Dena Fischer of Mankato died at Pathstone Living on March 12, 2022. Eldena (Dena) Elizabeth Eilers was born August 25, 1922, in Rockwell, Iowa, to Fred and Anna (Ryburn) Eilers. An older brother had died in infancy, and Dena was raised with her younger sisters, Elaine and Marion. Her grandmother, Cora Ryburn, a retired teacher, was her inspiration. Cora lived with the family, and taught Dena to read and sew, and, as her sight faded, Dena read to her.

Valedictorian of Rockwell High School in 1939, Dena entered Mason City Junior College that fall. By the time she finished MCJC in 1941 she had a contract to teach in a one room school in Bath Township. After teaching two years, she enrolled at the University of Minnesota, College of Education, graduating in January of 1945 with a major in math and a minor in social studies.

In July of 1944 Dena met George, a young soldier from St. Louis, at the U. They married on September 7, 1945. In the succeeding years, while George worked toward his veterinary degree, Dena held a variety of jobs, including teaching math at the University of Missouri, and earned her Masters of Education.

George and Dena’s first child was born a month before he finished veterinary school in 1952, and they would have four more children over the next seven and one half years. Over the next 25 years they moved around the country as George pursued his career in veterinary medicine, with an emphasis on poultry diseases. In 1977 George bought Mankato Pet Hospital. Dena ran the office, greeting the clients, managing the calendar, and keeping the books.

The Fischer home was always open to guests from around the world. George and Dena were active with the international students groups in Madison, WI, Ithaca, N.Y., and Mankato, making lifelong friends with students and families from places as diverse as Indonesia, Norway, Canada, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Syria. In Illinois, Honegger Farms trainees from India were regular guests for dinner. In 1968, the Fischer family grew with the addition of Steen Finsen, a Danish AFS student.

Throughout her life Dena was busy. She sewed clothes and costumes, taught her kids to play musical instruments, served on church committees, cooked meals, did laundry, participated in book clubs and women’s clubs, maintained correspondence with friends worldwide, served as a cub scout and girl scout leader, church youth group advisor, and Presbyterian Elder. She and George joined in dance groups and played bridge. Dena was a founder of MSU for Seniors, now Mankato Area Lifelong Learners, and a longtime season ticket holder for the MSU theatre programs. In the 80’s and 90’s Dena and George travelled widely, attending Rotary International conventions and Elderhostel programs.

Dena was preceded in death by George in 2003; her parents; her sisters Elaine (Don) Forry and Marion (Joe) Whalen, and their husbands; sister-in-law Peggy Fischer Nelson; niece Nancy Nelson Martin and nephew Peter Nelson. She is survived by her five children, and their spouses: Scott and Becky Fischer; Kurt and Nancy Fischer; Beth and Bob Jensen; Carol and Pat Oberle; Paul and Misun Min; eleven granddaughters, and one grandson: Heather Ring (Gary Meyer); Abbey Fischer (Rebecca); Lisa Finnvik (Brian); Nicholas Fischer (Amanda Kuldanek); Anna Jensen White (Mark); Ellen Fischer Petricka (Jake); Beka Jensen Bruyning; Sarah Jensen Prestegard (Cullen); Maria Jensen; Hannah Oberle; Erin Oberle; and Rita Fischer; great-grandchildren William White; Florence and Crosby Finnvik; Madison and Oliver Petricka; AFS student Steen Finsen (Trina Thykier); nephews and nieces: Dave Nelson (JoAnne); Rick Whalen (Beth); Jay Whalen (Judy); Tim Whalen; Jean Whalen Alexander (Doug); Ann Whalen Campbell (Dave); Janiece Forry Gallup (Steve) and Jeanette Forry Smith (Lindsey).

Services will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Mankato, Saturday, March 19, at 11:00 A.M., with visitation at the church one hour before the service, followed by lunch. Arrangements are being handled by Woodland Hills Funeral Home. woodlandhillsfh.com.

Dena asked that memorials be made to First Presbyterian Church of Mankato or Clearwater Forest Retreat Center, a shared camp and retreat ministry of area presbyteries (see, Clearwaterforest.org) which can be made through First Presbyterian Church.

Obituary Preview: Aric Enz passed away unexpectedly on March 10, 2022.

Aric was born on September 5, 1984 in Mankato, Minnesota to Allen and Paula (Bruss) Enz.

Aric enjoyed playing pool on league nights and at tournaments and spending time with family. He enjoyed riding in the Mustang with his Dad. He was a classic car enthusiast who loved working on and restoring vehicles. Aric was very knowledgeable in History and Politics. Aric will be forever missed and very loved by his family.

Aric is survived by his parents; sister, Amber Enz and her daughter, Allie; brothers; Andy (Amie) Ternes, their children, Maddie and Michael; Adam (Mandy) Ternes, their children, Adam Jr., Makenna, William, Alexandra, Anna and Aviry; and a great nephew, Beckham.

Aric was preceded in death by his grandparents, aunts and uncles. Private family services will be held.

Obituary Preview: Woodland Hills Funeral Home 507-387-5504

John Charles Banks, age 91, of Mankato, Minn., died Sunday, March 6 in Edina, Minn., from the complications of vascular parkinsonism.

Obituary Preview: Joyce Siebenbruner age 94 of Mankato passed away Thursday. March 3, 2022 at New Perspectives. Memorial services will be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Churchat 11am Friday March 18th with visitation beginning one hour prior to the services. Interment will be at Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Memorials are donor’s choice.

Joyce was born to Lewis and Eva (Kumlin) Meeks in Renville County, Birch Cooley Township, MN. Lived in Kasota many years. Graduated from Kasota High School in 1945. Worked at Thels Café while going to school. After graduation started working at St Peter State Hospital and went to Vocational LPN program there and graduated. On June 21, 1947 married Neal Siebenbruner after a long engagement (while he was in service) at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church. Moved to Mankato in 1950 and was employed by Immanuel St Joseph (now Mayo Health Systems) for 43 years. Worked in many areas including Obstetrics, central supply, pharmacy, and the last 14 years at sterile processing department as supervisor. After retirement in 1993 started volunteering at the Hospital and did that for many years. Joyce and her husband enjoyed many years of traveling to Holland, Germany, and Alaska and every 5 years went to Hawaii for his Air Force Reunions as well as many mystery bus trips to other states. Many years of Ballroom dancing was their favorite pastime. Also served for many years as Prime Time Board Members at Community Bank of Mankato. A special event occurred in 1995 when she and her husband were invited to have lunch with President Clinton and Hillary aboard the Aircraft carrier U.S.S. Carl Vinson at one of husband’s reunions as he represented the Air Force that day. President Clinton sat across from her at a table of 5 people.

Survivors include sons; Larry Siebenbruner and Richard (Stacie) Siebenbruner; special sister, Pat (Milt) Libaire of Alexandria; brother, Gerald Meeks of Hackensack; granddaughters Jill Dumas, Amy (John) Holewa, Brittany (Brandon) Unruh, Jessica Wendland and Michael (Krystal) Wendland, 11 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews and cousins.

Preceded in death by husband, Neal; parents; sisters, Evelyn and Betty.

Obituary Preview: Woodland Hills Funeral Home 507-387-5504

Thomas J. Krueger (72) of rural Eagle Lake died Monday February 28, 2022 at his home surrounded by his wife and children. He had been battling esophageal cancer since 2017, when he and his wife were both diagnosed with stage IV cancer within weeks of each other. For the record, Tom had been kicking cancer’s ass up until about a month ago. Like everything else in life, Tom decided dying was going to be on his own terms. After his diagnosis, with the help of his whole family, he continued to run his dairy farm with a renewed vigor.

Tom was born in Mankato on January 20, 1950 to Gladys and Walter Krueger. He grew up on their farm in LeRay Township, which has been in the Krueger family for five generations. In 1968, he graduated from Janesville High School. Tom was proud to serve our country in the Army National Guard as a medic. When his father’s health was failing, Tom selflessly chose to take over the family’s herd of dairy cows and officially became a dairy farmer.

Tom eventually met a beautiful woman with a kind heart, named Linda Somers. Linda admired farmers and wasn’t intimidated by hard work; he knew immediately he’d be a fool not to put a ring on it. They were united in marriage on June 8, 1974.

The next forty-eight years were filled with marital bliss (of course), raising four children into wonderful human beings, and milking cows. Lots of milking cows.

Tom was quite the anomaly. On the outside, the tall, brawny man with a big black beard could be intimidating to some. On the inside, he had a wry sense of humor and the tenderness to teach his daughters how to braid hair on a cow’s tail. Tom was a man with an economy of words, yet he would floor everyone in the room with a witty quip that no one was expecting. The crooked little smirk on his face was the only indicator you’d have that he was kidding.

Although Tom’s education only extended to high school, he had an abundance of experience and wisdom to share. And he enjoyed sharing his insights. While he milked cows with his daughters, this was often their special time to bond with him. He also enjoyed sharing his knowledge of agriculture and love of tractors with his sons, who have both carried on the farming tradition themselves. Tom rarely expressed his emotions or feelings. He showed his love to others through his actions, and you could see it in his eyes (even when he was rolling them at you.) Tom’s bearing was usually quiet and dignified, yet his booming voice could immediately snap his children into good behavior. As he transitioned from “Daddy” to “Pop-Pop,” and his beard transformed from black to white, his expectations seemed to soften, along with his heart. Much to his family’s surprise, he also took up making wine and baking decadent breads in his older age. It was even more stunning that he was excellent at it. Another favorite past-time he had was delegating tasks onto his son-in-law Dusty’s (already full) farm chore list with a dry, “So…you need a job?”

Tom is survived by his wife, Linda of rural Eagle Lake; by two sons, Justin Krueger (and Mary Brunz) and Luke (and Rhonda) Krueger of rural Eagle Lake; by two daughters Tracy (and Dusty) Loberg of Janesville, and Fawn Krueger of Shoreview, MN. Tom was also survived by five precious grandchildren who brought an abundance of joy to his life; Avery and Clint Krueger, August and Nash Loberg, and Klaus Krueger-McMullen. He was survived by two brothers, William Krueger of St. Joseph, MO, Roger (and Donna) Krueger of rural Eagle Lake; by two sisters, Joyce (and Harlan) Renken of Racine, MN, and Susan Krueger of Cleveland, GA; by brother and sister in laws, and nine nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Gladys Krueger; by parents-in-law, Clinton and Lillian Somers; by sister-in-law Janice (William) Krueger; by many wonderful cattle dogs, especially his beloved Flash, Flash II, Beauregard, Hans Von Schnapps, and Buck.

Obituary Preview: Daniel Robert Gaffer, age 63 of Mankato, passed away on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at his home. Funeral Services will be held at 11am Friday March 4th at Woodland Hills Funeral Chapel. Visitation will be held from 4-7pm Thursday March 3rd at Woodland Hills Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Woodland Hills Memorial Park in Mankato.

Daniel Robert was born on December 8, 1958 to Robert John and Rita Valeria (Kruse) Gaffer in Mankato, Minnesota. He graduated from Mankato High School. Dan was self-employed and owned and operated his own welding shop for many years. He enjoyed snowmobiles, cars, mechanics, hunting, drag races, camping and fishing. He loved time spent with his family and friends.

He is survived by his sons, Nathan Gaffer of North Mankato, Adam Gaffer of Nicollet; brothers, Steven R. (Kathy) Gaffer of New Richmond, WI, John S. (Jana) Gaffer of Hudson, WI; sisters, Linda G. (Jon) Paulson of St. Peter, Susan G. (Dana) Franzen of Hawkey, IA, Christine M. (Matt) Newville of Mankato; nieces and nephews, Ashley Bullerman, Tina G, Laura G, Ryan Skaggs, Justin G, Chris Skaggs, Bryan G, Amanda G, Tyrrel G, Corey G, Nerissa Hoag, Natasha G, Ali Fisher, Gabrielle Newville, Sam Newville, Victoria N, Mitchel N; many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Timothy P. Gaffer.

Obituary Preview: Detlef “Dutch” Manfred Dieter Harnitz, age 80 of Mankato, passed away at home on Saturday, February 26, 2022 with his family by his side. Visitation will be on Tuesday, March 8th from 4 - 7 p.m. at Woodland Hills Funeral Home. The funeral will be Wednesday, March 9th at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in North Mankato, with Pastor Marques Nelson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Woodland Hills Memorial Park in Mankato. woodlandhillsfh.com

Dutch was born in Stettin, Germany on March 28, 1941 to Max Fredrich Ernst and Ella Luise Anna (Zimdahl) Harnitz. Dutch studied Tool and Die in Bonn Germany. He immigrated to the U.S in 1963 and was proud to become a U.S. citizen. On February 21, 1965, he married Sharon Jane at St. Paul’s. For 45 years he was employed at Continental Can/Crown Cork and Seal in Mankato.

Dutch is survived by his children, Andre (Amy) Harnitz of Mankato, Cory (Lisa) Harnitz of Mankato, Kelly Harnitz of Mankato, Grandchildren Ariel, Ari, Anastasia, Alex, Liza, Dutch, Ivy of Mankato. Sister Marianne (Hans) Witsch of San Jose, CA and nieces/nephews, Angela, Elke, Gabrielle, Ralf, Uve, Matt.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; wife, Sharon.

Dutch was not only a brother, dad, uncle, and grandpa, he connected with everyone he met. He loved spending time with people playing cards, telling jokes, sharing his knowledge and life experiences, traveling, and having breakfast with friends. He had many passions and spent many hours repairing and making things from scratch. Dutch enjoyed the outdoors and was often hunting, fishing, and camping. He was a member of the Key City Gun Club and founded the Mankato Area Youth Wrestling Club in 1974. His passion for all sports was an inspiration to many.

Thanks to all who participated in his care. Your service, time, and smiles were invaluable. Woodland Hills (507) 387 - 5504

Obituary Preview: Woodland Hills Funeral Home 507-387-5504

Laura Lee “Tootsie” Erlandson, age 83 of Mankato, passed away on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems-Mankato.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 2 P.M. at Woodland Hills Chapel in Mankato.

Visitation will be on Tuesday afternoon for 2 hours prior to services at Woodland Hills Chapel. Woodland Hills Funeral Home of Mankato is handling arrangements.

Laura Lee was born on May 1, 1938 to Roy L. and Erna K. (Schroeder) Schmidt in New Ulm, Minnesota. On November 30, 1957 she was united in marriage to James P. Erlandson at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. For many years she was employed by Kato Engineering as a secretary. She was a longtime member of the Mankato Eagles Aerie #269 and the Morson-Ario-Strand Post #950 in Mankato. She enjoyed reading, bingo, crossword puzzles, bowling, and going to casinos. Laura Lee loved time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Rock (Jackie) Erlandson; daughters, Hope Saari of Mankato, Kelly (Derek Hallow) Willmott of Golden Valley; grandchildren, James Erlandson, Tomi Kaye Erlandson, Alexis Erlandson, Jeff Saari, Laura Lee Saari, James Saari, Elizabeth Saari, Corey Willmott, David Willmott, Charles Willmott; 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Dennis Schmidt of Florida; sister, Betty Craven of Florida; brother-in-laws, Theodore (Diane) Erlandson of Good Thunder, Robert (Ginger) Erlandson of Good Thunder; by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, James P. Erlandson; great-granddaughter, Marlee May; sister-in law, Bea Schmidt; brother-in-law, Milt Craven.

Obituary Preview: Wayne Alan Lines, 65, of North Mankato passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his entire family, on February 23rd, 2022 following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Wayne graduated from Wells-Easton High School in 1975, entered the US Air Force where he was stationed stateside from 1977-1980. He was a graduate of Hibbing Technical in construction maintenance. He also had a long standing job, for many years, at McQuay in Owatonna as a Braser Tester.

Wayne is survived by his adoring wife Randi Lines. Wayne was a humble man and a loving father to his three children: Tracy (Victor) Andrade, Tammy (Dennis) Anderson, and Nicholas (Melissa) Lines, and 10 grandchildren. As an amazing father, grandfather, neighbor, friend, & husband--he would do anything, at the drop of a dime, to help anyone, and be there for them, in a heartbeat. He was selfless, loving, caring, and most of all, he carried around his beautiful smile, dimples and baby blue eyes that just lit up your day, and made you feel like everything was going to be ok. He enjoyed talking "in detail" about how to fix cars, and his dream car was to have a 1970 Buick GSX. He loved his previous jobs that he had such great passion for and loved hunting up north. In his spare time relaxing, netflix was his favorite to kickback & watch some of his favorite old cowboy movies. He also loved chatting, mostly listening, on his patio with his family, playing with his dog, and making his car all shiny. He was also an amazing husband who took such great care of his wife, helping her with everyday needs, and was always there for her. He was the best father, grandpa, and really enjoyed being with his family-but now, he will be watching over us partying in heaven pain free. As his days neared, his last words were "oh boy", I could only imagine, he was seeing Jesus open his arms to heaven, and he was taking his joyride to heaven on his favorite motorcycle, listening to the tunes of "Life is a highway". He sure loved to ride his motorcycle when he had it. That was his favorite! But it gave us all a heart attack. Wayne was the best example of an amazing human being who loved to do for others, and always put himself last. Some days, we never could tell he had cancer, he seemed so strong, so brave, and perhaps tried to protect us, from knowing, if he was ever in pain. He was a protector, a warrior to cancer, and a hero to all. We will miss him dearly.

Wayne was the fourth of six children born to Richard and Jane Lines who preceded him in death; also his mother and father in lawJanice & Dwayne Taber, and brother in law Scott Taber, and niece Heather Low. Surviving siblings are Bradley of Indio CA, Mary Jane Goodsell of Rochester, Kevin (Brenda) of Waldorf, Kenneth (Donna) of Waseca, and Edith Ball of Grand Rapids MN.

-Woodland Hills Funeral Home,1605 Woodland Ave Mankato MN, 507-387 5504, is in charge of his cremation.

-Due to the frigid cold weather, & frozen grounds, we will lay Wayne to rest at Woodland Hills Memorial Parkcloser to spring, A close friends & family "Celebration of Life" will be held at Covenant Family Church, dates T.B.A.

Obituary Preview: Woodland Hills Funeral Home 507-387-5504

Margaret (Peggy) Ann Letcher passed away at the age of 72 on February 19, 2022 at Mayo Hospital in Mankato, MN.

A private Celebration of Life will be held with the close family.

Margaret was born on May 11, 1949 in Mankato, MN to Louis and Melba/Gale (Jensen) Slama of Lake Crystal, MN. She graduated from Lake Crystal High School in 1967. She worked numerous jobs over the years ranging from homemaker, Ag worker, Insurance Agent, Retail sales and was a strong supporter and member of the Republican Party in volunteering at various events.

Margaret had a lifelong interest in collecting Antiques. She also enjoyed canning, baking, quilting, crocheting, knitting, was an excellent cook and enjoyed playing cards with family and friends.

Margaret is survived by her son Dion Letcher, her daughter Theresa/Teri (Chuck) Braaten, her grandchildren Brandon Braaten and Tyler (Courtney) Braaten; and her brothers Dan and Lauren Slama and many nieces and nephews.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; Brothers Larry, Steven and Neal Slama. Remembrance and condolences may be mailed to the family at 15135 515th Ave, Garden City, MN 56034

Obituary Preview: Daniel Lee Olson, age 63, died February 19, 2022 at Laurel’s Peak in Mankato, MN. Memorial Mass will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Mankato.

Daniel was born January 31, 1959 in Albert Lea, MN to Willman and Margaret (Loebner) Olson. He graduated from Lake Crystal High School and in 1984 he graduated from Mankato Area Vocational Technical Institute. He served in the United States Navy, being honorably discharged August 13, 1979. Daniel liked going for walks, reading, journaling and especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He was an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

Daniel is survived by his parents, Willman and Margaret Olson of Mankato; sisters, Donna Olson (Mike Shaughnessy) of Inver Grove Heights, MN and Kathleen Dale of Kasota, MN; nephews, Dillon (Alyssa) Dale, Jacob Dale and Nick Dale. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Robert Dale.

Obituary Preview: Thomas (Tom) C. Reisenbigler, age 77 of Lake Crystal, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems - Mankato with his daughters by his side.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 21, 2022 at Woodland Hills Funeral Chapel in Mankato. Visitationwill be held one-hour priorto the services at Woodland Hills. Private family burial will be held at a later date.

Tom was born on September 13, 1944 to Lyle and Rachel (Graham) Reisenbigler in Madelia, MN. He was a lifelong member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Mankato. Tom was married for 26 years, raised his daughters, and lived in Mankato most of his life. Tom worked at Hilltop Meat Market for over 50 years. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, trap shooting, playing cards, bingo, puzzles, old westerns and watching wrestling. He was known for his quick wit, wise cracks, and love for his family.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kelly (Mark) Johnson and Jodie (Bill) Stuve; grandchildren, Jacob Reisenbigler, Courtney Stuve, Aaron Stuve and Morgan Johnson; sisters Donna (Harry) Bauer and Pat Carlson; nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, sister Helen (Marv) Kalis, brother Jerry (Connie) Reisenbigler and brother-in-law Woody Carlson.

The family would like to thank Mayo Clinic Health Systems - Mankato and Crystal Seasons in Lake Crystal for their outstanding care. Woodland Hills (507) 387 - 5504