In Memory of our Beloved Classmates
David “Chopper” Anderson
Anderson, David J. Age 44, of Savage, MN Beloved Father Passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 16, 2008. Loved and forever missed by children, Megan & Austin Anderson; wife, Shannon; parents, Dick & Lucille Anderson; sister, Kim Levercom; many other relatives and friends. He had 14 years of volunteer service on the Savage Fire Dept. Celebration of Life service Friday 12:00 noon at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, 3611 N Berens NW, Prior Lake, with visitation 3 hours prior to service at church. Inurnment Spring Lake Cemetery. Memorials preferred. Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home Prior Lake, MN www.ballardsunderfuneral.com Published by Pioneer Press on Sep. 18, 2008
Wallace “Wally” Jean Andress
It is with immense sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Wallace Jean Andress, of Golden Valley on July 3rd 2022 at the age of 58. We are comforted by the fact that he is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Wally was born April 3rd 1964, in Robbinsdale, Minnesota and grew up in Golden Valley. He married his high school sweetheart Janine on August 10th, 1991. Wally and Janine bought his childhood home from his parents in 1998, and raised their twins, Amy and Nick, in a great neighborhood.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Janine, daughter Amy, son Nick, dog Axl, cats Leo and Rosie, sister Janelle Kelly, brother Douglas Andress, nephews Will Kelly and John Kelly, niece Carolyn Kelly, along with many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Gurney Andress, and his mother Leona Andress.
In his free time, Wally loved to fish, smoke cigars, golf, camp at Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters, and play Candy Crush. He never met a whisky he didn’t like. Wally was a great handyman, who could build or fix anything and was always willing to help family or friends on a project. He loved 70’s and 80’s music, and his favorite movie was the Blues Brothers. He loved his cats so much that he made a sling so he could work while they laid with him.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 7th from 4-7 P.M, and the funeral service will be held on Friday, July 8th at 2 P.M. with a second visitation taking place 1 hour prior. Both the visitation and funeral will be held at Washburn-McReavy at 1400 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343. Published on July 6, 2022
Kimberly Ann Stamos (Bocock)
Kimberly Ann Stamos, age 53 of New Hope. Born January 24, 1964, died April 13, 2017. Preceded in death by father, Morris and brother, Alan. Survived by mother, Betty and a brother
https://www.gillbrothers.com/memorials/kimberly-stamos/3081457/obituary.php
Daniel A. Burg
Daniel A. Burg, age 30, formerly of Crystal, died Sat. July 16 at Hovland, MN. Grew up in Crystal, MN. Graduated from Armstrong High School. Lived in Duluth since 1982. Avid runner, skier & sailor and high school cross country ski coach. A good coach, he was a better man, giving, with a big heart & fine character. His death is a great loss. Beloved son of Richard O. & Katherine of Crystal. Beloved brother of Randall, Bemidji & Brian in St. Paul, Kristin Wiederhold in Plymouth, & Andrea Burg-Pfutzenreuter of Eagan. Services 11am Sat., Elim Lutheran, Robbinsdale (40th & Broadway).
Lori Burkett Anderson
Kelly Lee Chaney
"Kellybelly" 52, passed away Monday, April 3, 2017. Originally from Tampa she moved to the Florida Keys in the early 90s. She is survived by her loving children, son, Mako and daughter, Coral; their loving father, Mike Geide; her parents, Ken Nuznoff and Maurine Simms Chaney; her brother, Allen Nuznoff; half-brother, Kenny Johnson; uncle, Bill Simms (Nancy W.); aunt, Jane Simms Dudley (Doyle); cousins, Scott Simms (Nancy L.), Bill Simms Jr., Doyle Dudley Jr., Taylor Dudley; and Kelly's beloved friend, Sally Hill Sandburg. Kelly enjoyed spending time with her family and was very active in all of their activities. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hospice of the Florida Keys. A memorial will be held Wednesday, April 12, at Grace Lutheran Church (Key West) at 6 pm, on Thursday, April 13, at the Cudjoe Key bridge - Bow Channel at 6 pm where we will spread her ashes.
Published in the Tampa Bay Times from Apr.12 to Apr.13, 2017
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tampabaytimes/obituary.aspx?pid=185055419#sthash.UwT65syP.dpuf
Jeffrey A. Olson
Age 22, of Plymouth. Student of respiratory therapy at St. Mary’s Junior College. Survived by parents, John & Jan; sister, Lisa; grandparents, Mr & Mrs. Herman B. Davis, Mrs. L.E. Sunderland, all of Kansas City, MO; other loving relatives & friends.
2 Plymouth men drown while duck hunting near Alexandria
Two Plymouth men drowned while duck huntingSunday afternoon on Lake Osakis, near the town of Osakis east of Alexandria. Douglas County Sheriff Terry Ellers identified the victims as Jeffrey Olson and Michael Davis, both 22 and both from Plymouth. A 14-foot-long camouflaged duck boat used by in about eight feet of water. High winds had produced whitecaps on the lake, said Steve Sibell, a Douglas County sheriff’s dispatcher. The men had been wearing heavy clothing, but were not wearing life jackets, authorities said. They also apparently had been wearing ammunition belts, Sibell said. Olson was found at the lake’s public boat dock and taken to Douglas County Hospital, where he was pronounced deat at 2 pm yesterday, Sibell said. Davis’ body was found about 6:30 pm in the vicinity of the boat. Rescue personnel from Osakis joined in the search Sibell said. Minneapolis Star Tribune October 6, 1986.
Michael Blaine Davis
Kathy Dejno
Dejno, Kathy L. Age 44, formerly of Crystal. Preceded in death by parents, Alphonse and Betty Dejno; and sister-in-law, Sue Dejno. Survived by brothers, Kim, Rick, and Randy; also niece and nephews, Grace, Brian, and Joshua; also friends and relatives. Mass of Christian Burial Monday 10 AM St. Raphael Catholic Church (Holy Spirit Chapel), 7301 Bass Lake Road, Crystal. Interment Pickwick Cemetery, Pickwick, MN. Visitation 1 hour prior to Mass at church and 4-7 PM Sunday at: Washburn-McReavy Robbinsdale Chapel 763-537-2333 4239 West Broadway
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
Eric Earl
Age 36, passed away on April 13th, 2001. Eric is survived by his son, Charles; parents, Dianne Perkins, and Dr. & Mrs. Stephan Earl; brother, Jeff Earl; and sister, Lisa Earl. Memorial service to be held Friday, April 20th, 2001 at 1 pm at Sunset Memorial Park, 2250 St Anthony Blvd NE, Mpls (612-789-3596). Memorials may be sent to Hazelden Foundation’s Patient Financial Aid Program, Center City, MN.
Christina Marie Sherer Guimaraes
Christina Marie Sherer Guimaraes, age 25, of Jacksonville FL, formerly of Coon Rapids. Survived by parents, Antonio & Kathryn of Coon Rapids; brothers & sisters-in-law, Antonio M. & Nancy of Duluth; Omar & Susan of Indianopolis; Paulo & Valerie of Rochester MN; Charles & Maria of Phoenix AZ; sisters Linda & Kathryn Toni of Coon Rapids; grandparents Fred & Tena Sherer of Mpls and Inez Guimaraes of Brazil; 7 nieces & nephews. Mass of Christian Burial Tues. 10am at Ephiphany Catholic Church in Coon Rapids. Visitation Mon. 4-8pm at Gearhart Funeral Chapel, 242 Northdale Blvd, Coon Rapids. Rosary 8pm Monday. Internment Epiphany Cemetery.
Kim Kristine Clavin
Kim Kristine Clavin passed away Sept. 29, 2011, at her home in Baxter with the comfort that she was loved and cared for by her family and friends. Visitation will be Saturday, Oct. 1 from 5-7 p.m. at Halverson-Johnson Funeral Home, 703 Oak Street, Brainerd, Minn., with a family memorial service held on Monday, Oct. 3 at Bethel Lutheran Church at 11 a.m.
Kim was born on March 27, 1964, in Robbinsdale to Dorothy Hartinger of New Hope and Al Hartinger of Champlin. She graduated from Armstrong High School in 1981. Her flair for life was apparent from the start, exemplified by her tremendous energy, spunky personality and love for everyone she knew. Kim’s life flourished even more when she proudly accomplished sobriety six years ago when she moved to Baxter in 2005 from Prescott, Wis.
Most recently, she worked at Gander Mountain and was most grateful for the friendship of Liz and staff. Additionally, she had her own cake-making business and she was employed at the Super One bakery. Kim’s work ethic was built in and worthy of bragging about, yet her humble nature would never allow. She attended Bethel Lutheran Church of Brainerd, finding enjoyment in the friendship of Pastor Bob, who married her and Terry.
Kim expanded her family through the celebration of marriage to Terry Clavin on Oct. 31, 2010. Bringing the entire family (her two children and Terry’s son’s families) together was a newfound passion that outweighed all other interests. Together, Kim and Terry enjoyed each day’s sunrise and sunset with a good strong cup of coffee, conversation and laughter. Kim particularly loved spring and fall, which brought garden planting (and weeding!), sweatshirts and Sunday football. She even considered winter a blessing for the excuse to turn up the thermostat and bring out her favorite robe. Kim had courageously fought her battle with cancer since being diagnosed in April of this year. She will be fondly remembered for her ever-present smile, kindness to others, fantastically creative cakes, gardens and love for her family. In particular, she was thankful for and proud of the accomplishments of her children.
Kim is survived by her husband, Terry; her parents, Dorothy, of New Hope, and Al Hartinger, of Champlin; daughter, Andrea Nellis, of Baxter; son, Jesse Nellis, of River Falls, Wis.; her sister, Kelly (John) Grubb, and their children, Sydney and Madeline, of St. Michael; and sister, Lisa Hartinger-Perry and her child, Trent, of Benton, Texas; stepsons, Patrick (Anna) Clavin, of St. Cloud, T.J. (Theresa) Clavin, of Barrett, and Christopher (Katie) Clavin, of St. Cloud; five grandchildren, Oliver, Austin, Parker, Autumn and Rayne; her big black dog, Slick, and cat, Mia; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Memorials to the American Cancer Society are preferred in lieu of flowers.
Family being served by:
Halvorson-Johnson Funeral & Cremation Care, Brainerd, (218) 829-3581
Elizabeth Joy Betsy Hatt
Elizabeth Joy (Betsy) Hatt, age 25, of New Hope. Graduate of Armstrong Sr. High School 1982; U of M 1987. Employed by Golden Valley Library & Lawyer’s Joint Law Library. Survived by parents Robert & Charlotte Hall of New Hope, sisters, Claudia & her husband Jeffrey Hunter of Plymouth & Gretchen Hall of New Hope; niece Sarah Elizabeth Hunter; aunt Alice Wilde of Denver, CO; 3 cousins. Memorial service Saturday July 22, 11am at Robbinsdale United Church of Christ, 4200 Lake Road Ave, Robbinsdale. Memorials preferred. Cremation Society of MN 825-2435.
Minneapolis Star Tribune – July 21, 1989
Chris Allen Hendrickson
Hendrickson, Chris Allen, age 28 of Hopkins. Died June 30th with special friend Linda Rogers. Survived by mother Correne Hendrickson; father Oris & wife Ellie; brother David & wife Carol; sister Cheryl; grandmother Alice Hendrickson. Services 1pm Wednesday at the Washburn-McReavy DuSchane Chapel, 4239 W. Broadway, Robbinsdale. Internment Crystal Lake Cemetery. Friends may call at the chapel from 11am-1pm, Wednesday. Washburn-McReavy Welander Quist DuSchane 537-2333.
Charlie Hennessey
Hennessey, Charles W. born 3/23/64, passed away 5/31/15. Preceded in death by his mother, Barbara. Survived by wife, Karen (Brandeen); daughters, Katelyn, Jessica, Kalley, Christie; father, Robert (Carol) Hennessey; sister, Suzanne; brothers, Steven (Wendy), Robert; several nieces and nephews, multiple friends. Charlie was loved by all and will be missed forever. Memorial service 2 PM, Sat, June 20 at Central Lutheran Church, 1103 School St NW, Elk River. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family. Charlie lived life to the fullest. May he now rest in peace.
Published on June 6, 2015
http://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/84444/?fullname=charles-w-hennessey
Steve Hoy
Hoy Steven C., age 39, of Robbinsdale. Survived by parents, Chris & Karen of New Hope; sister, Kathy Haugen (Peter) of Plymouth; brother, Randall Hoy (Sochit Sor) of San Diego, CA; nieces & nephews, Stephanie & Christopher Haugen, Julianne & Andrew Hoy. Memorials preferred to Dakota Communities, Inc., Rise Inc., and Allina Hospice. Services Wed. 1 PM at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth, 12235 Rockford Road, Plymouth. Private interment. Reviewal Tues. 5:30-8:00 PM with prayer service 8:00 PM at: Washburn-McReavy Robbinsdale Chapel 4239 West Broadway 763-537-2333
Published on June 20, 2003
http://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/625151/?fullname=hoy,-steven-c
Lisa Ann Huskamp Zimmer
Lisa passed away on Wednesday, September 12, 2018. Lisa was a resident of Walnut Grove, Minnesota at the time of passing. A memorial service will take place at the Osterberg Funeral Chapel in Jackson, Minnesota at 3 o'clock in the afternoon on Saturday, October 6, 2018 with Pastor Steve DeKok officiating. A gathering of friends and family will be held from 1-3PM before the service that Saturday at the chapel in Jackson.
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/lisa-zimmer-obituary?pid=190218840
Rural WG resident dies from crash injuries
Zimmer known to have provided positive impact on Tracy Kids World children
SEP 14, 2018 by JENNY KIRK, Staff Writer, jkirk@marshallindependent.com
TRACY — A week after being involved in a two-vehicle crash, 54-year-old Lisa Zimmer has died from her injuries, leaving family, friends and co-workers to grieve her loss.
The rural Walnut Grove resident was said to have a tremendously positive impact on those around her, including the children she built relationships with as an aide at Tracy Kids’ World.
“Lisa was a great employee and always had a smile on her face,” TKW Director Greg Carlson said. “The kids took a very good liking to her. It definitely was a shocker when we heard the news of the accident and even worse, the severity of it.”
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Zimmer lost control of the 2007 Chevrolet Impala as she approached the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and 120th Street on Sept. 6. The Impala was then struck by a 2015 Chrysler Town and Country minivan driven by 64-year-old Paulette Stefanick of Garvin as she was driving south on Highway 59. Stefanick received non life-threatening injuries in the crash.
“Anytime someone who leaves this earth unexpectedly, it’s never an easy thing to cope with,” Carlson said. “Initially most of the kids didn’t know how serious the situation was. We had told them Lisa was in the hospital, but we didn’t elaborate. We have letters going home to parents (Thursday). We’ll let them talk with their kids and go from there.”
Carlson said the children at TKW range in age from 6 weeks to 12 years old.
“Lisa did end up working with some of our school-age kids, especially in the summertime,” he said. “They realize she hasn’t been around. After her passing (Wednesday night), we knew we needed to sent letters home to parents. Lisa formed good relationships with the kids, so it’s going to be tough when they find out. It’s hard enough to process as an adult, but it can be even more difficult for the kids.”
Carlson said he has been working on getting “some sort of resources” to have available to help people through the grief process. He’s also making himself available for staff members.
“I’ll be there for them if they need to talk or if they want to share anything,” Carlson said. “We’ll help each other through it. Hopefully we can get through this together.”
Carlson also wanted to let the family know how much Zimmer meant to the child care organization and that everyone in the community and beyond was thinking of them at this difficult time.
“Lisa was greatly appreciated,” he said. “She was making a difference in the kids’ lives and will be sorely missed. I want to share our condolences and deepest sympathies to Lisa’s family and those closest to her. I can’t imagine the pain they’re facing.”
Zimmer is survived by three daughters — Jessica Walton, Tricia Harder and Nicole Schwalbe — along with several grandchildren.
Through a Caring Bridge site for Zimmer, the trio shared that their mother was a registered organ donor and that her death was bittersweet. Zimmer died Wednesday evening at Sanford Medical Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“11:10 p.m. is the moment our world stood still — the moment the cold room got colder and the dark room got darker,” Walton wrote. “But, it was also the moment someone else’s world started moving, someone else’s room got warmer and someone else’s room got brighter.”
Walton shared that the LifeSource team had found a match for their mother’s liver and that the hospital performed a flag-raising ceremony to honor her for choosing to be an organ donor.
“This has been one emotional roller coaster ride,” she said. “Mom was our light, our warmth, our world. Mom has gone home. She was greeted by her parents and her dogs. She is free.”
Former TKW aide Brittany Andree recalls Zimmer beaming with joy when she talked about her daughters and grandkids.
“She always talked about her family and how much she loved them,” Andree said. “She was definitely a family person.”
But Andree said the impact Zimmer had on people spread even further than her family and the children she engaged with regularly.
“I worked with Lisa quite a bit,” Andree said. “She was really good at her job with kids. She was always so positive. She did a tremendous job with them.”
Andree said Zimmer was someone she could talk to and who would make her feel better.
“I called Lisa my adopted grandma,” Andree said. “She was one of the sweetest ladies I have ever met. She always had my back and was there when I needed to talk or a shoulder to cry on. You will be greatly missed by many children, co-workers, myself and most definitely your grandchildren and your children. I will forever cherish meeting you and you will always be on my mind and in my heart.”
Terry Kyro
Terry J. Kyro, age 48, of Princeton, Minnesota passed away suddenly October 26, 2012 at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale. Survived by parents Jim and Jeanette Kyro, of Dayton; sister Sherri (John) Sakkinen; niece Alyssa, nephew Brandon of Dayton; best friend Julie Richardson of Princeton; and many other relatives and friends.
Terry was preceded in death by grandparents Hugo and Mayme Kyro of Sebeka and grandparents Eldon and Esther James and Patty James Fox of Park Rapids.
http://www.lakeandpine.com/v2/content.aspx?module=ContentItem&ID=248785&MemberID=2205
Paul Lange
Age 14, son of Mr. and Mrs. Art Lange died Sunday from injuries received in a mini-bike accident on County Road 17 west of Holdingford. Funeral services will be 11 am Wednesday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Upsala with the Rev. Gerald Mischke officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Friends may call after 3 pm Tuesday at Brenny and Son Funeral Home, Holdingford. Parish prayers will be 8:30 pm Tuesday at the funeral home in Holdingford. Paul was born Aug. 23, 1964, in Robbinsdale, to Arthur and Carol Lange. He was a student at Plymouth Junior High School, Plymouth. Survivors include his parents; sister, Janne, at home; and grandfather and step grandmother, Mike and Mary Atkinson Sr., Holdingford. He was preceded in death by one sister, Jackie.
https://www.newspapers.com/clip/104694071/obituary-for-paul-arthur-lange-aged-14/
Lori Lee Lanning
Lori Lee Lanning, age 19, 2820 Portland Ave. S. Survived by father & stepmother, LeJan & Joyce Lanning, Golden Valley; mother, Marlene Lanning; sisters Lou Ann Gervais of Maplewood, Lynette Hulegaard of Juneau AK; brother Lonnie Lanning of Golden Valley; grandmother Alice Lanning of Mpls; grandparents Mr & Mrs. Alfred Lawrence; aunts, uncles, nieces & nephews. Services Wed. 1pm Werness Brothers Chapel, 37th & Nicollet Ave. Interment Crystal Lake Cemetery. Friends may call at the chapel Tues. evening 5-8pm.
Lorin Lerner Boswell
Lerner, Lorin M. Age 55 of Phoenix, AZ formerly of Minneapolis, MN. passed away October 21st. She was preceded in death by her father, Earl Lerner and mother, Deanie Lerner. Survived by brothers, Aaron (Debra), Steve (Mike) and Ben; nephew, Zachary; mom, Trudy and also Malcolm Boswell.
Lorin moved to Phoenix in the summer of 1986. She began work with Inventory Adjusters in Phoenix in 1989 as a salesperson, and quickly was promoted to Vice President of Sales. She worked there for nearly 25 years before purchasing the company in 2004.
She loved animals and helping the needy. A couple of her favorite charities with SNIFF and Wings & Wags Foundation. She would work at the homeless shelter and the Saint Mary's Food Bank. Lorin lived a life of giving back to others; she would say, "helping others is good for the soul."
Lorin's spirit was as big as the universe and her smile as bright as the stars. Lorin celebrated life, and she got to do what she wanted to do – to travel, she loved her dog Bella … she lived life to the fullest extent.
Posted online on November 15, 2019, Published in The Arizona Republic
Gary R. Martinson
Gary R. Martinson, age 30, Golden Valley. Preceded in death by parents Richard & Hattelene. Survived by fiancée Chersti & their daughter Hattelene; sister Marianne Taylor & husband Calvin; niece Lisanne Martinson; great-niece Shalanda Chardea Martinson; also many friends. Funeral service Thursday 1pm at Kapala-Glodek-Malone funeral home 7800 Bass Lake Road in New Hope. Internment Golden Valley Cemetery. Visitation Wednesday 4-8pm at the funeral home & one hour prior to service.
Two Motorcyclists are Killed in Separate Metro Accidents
Two motorcyclists died Sunday in separate accidents in the Twin Cities, bringing to four the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents in the metro area since Friday, authorities reported. Michael K. Gill, 26, of Minneapolis, died at Hennepin County Medical Center at 10am Sunday after crashing his motorcycle near University Ave. and 37th Ave. NE in Minneapolis. The county medical examiner said Gill died of head injuries. The cause of the accident is under investigation. The exact time of the accident is unknown but it is believed to have occurred Saturday night.
At 3:40am Sunday, Gary R. Martinson, 30, of Golden Valley, died at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park from injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash. The State Patrol said Martinson hit a guard rail while northbound on Hwy. 169 at 36th Ave. The accident happened about 12:40am Sunday. The State Patrol said Martinson was speeding.
On Friday, the driver and a passenger on a motorcycle died from injuries they suffered after colliding with a van. The motorcycle driver, Peter Hlavacek, 20, of Burnsville, died at the scene in the 15700 block of Buck Hill Rd. in Burnsville at about 6:30pm. His passenger, Raelyn Mae Luna Graupmann, 17, of Burnsville, died Friday night at Hennepin County Medical Center.
Kelly Jon Nygaard
Kelly Jon Nygaard, age 23, of Plymouth. Survived by parents Reuel & Mary; brothers Kent and Scott & his wife Sherri; Grandmother Mrs. Alpha Nygaard; nephew Matthew; loving relatives and special friends. Service Saturday 1pm Wayzata Evangelical Free Church, 705 Hwy 101 N. Visitation 5-8pm The Albin Chapel, 2200 Nicollet Ave. Memorials preferred.
Reuel Nygaard was a successful businessman and seasoned problem solver. He never lost control. Until the day his pastor said, Reuel, your son Kelly is dead. Tragedy to Triumph is the chronicle of one businessman's dark struggle with grief, anger, and even his Christian faith. But it is also the story of how God brought him through the darkness, providing healing and hope.
James Henry Russell
James H. Russell Jr. April 3, 1964 - October 30, 2021
James H. Russell Jr. age 57 of Carver passed away on Saturday October 30, 2021 at his home.
Funeral Service held on Friday November 5, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at Westwood Community Church (3121 Westwood Drive) in Excelsior with Rev. Dave Trautmann as officiant. Visitation Thursday November 4, 2021 from 4-7 P.M. at the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia and 1 hour prior to the service at church on Friday.
Jim Russell was born on April 3rd,1964, in Golden Valley, Minnesota the son of James and Joan (MacWilliams) Russell. The youngest of four children, he was drawn to nature at a young age. He spent his time exploring the outdoors, poring through nature books, and collecting creatures. His mother recalls many-a-lost lizard in his bedroom growing up. He carried that fascination for science throughout his life, and made keeping a variety of unusual pets a priority.
From little league to track and field, Jim was an athlete with the gift of speed! After graduation from Armstrong High School, he was a college sprinter at Gustavus Adolphus, where he received a bachelor’s degree in math and physics. He then moved to New York with his brother, Bruce, to attend graduate school at Rochester Institute of Technology. Afterwards, a job offer brought him to Texas where his love for the desert canyons kept him for several years. Ultimately, though, it was his love for family that brought him back to Minnesota.
It was clear to family and friends that Jim always carved his own fascinating way through life, completely unaffected and unrehearsed. Quick of wit and amazingly creative, Jim’s mind worked in ways that were often cryptic but always unique. And oh, how he made people laugh! He blurred the boundaries of etiquette and found humor in the most mundane situations. He had many hobbies and never stopped trying new things. His photography hobby merged with his love for the stars, and he joined the Minnesota Astronomical Society. He stargazed on mountaintops in various countries, but also studied the indigenous animals and people of those regions. He worked; he sang; he built things; he volunteered; he travelled - all the while ensuring he spent quality time with his family.
In 2004, he married Lisa - someone who shared his love of creatures and spoke his “language” of humor. They had two beautiful girls - Lucy and Maren, and he was immensely proud of his children. Always patient and loving, Jim was an adoring father who instilled in them a love for Jesus and family. His quirky humor and sense of wonder made each day an adventure in the Russell household. He would often skid into the kitchen on socked feet, arms outstretched like in a Broadway show - singing a parody about the cat who coughed up a fur ball or something of the like. In the last two years of his life, Jim mastered the unicycle and taught Maren how to ride. Together they joined the Twin Cities Unicycle Club and rode in parades and in the community. His legacy lives on in his children who loved their daddy beyond measure.
Selfless and kind, his smile and presence made everyone feel at ease. As a greeter at church, he is remembered for his friendly demeanor, incredible warmth, and willingness to help with anything. Although he was taken from us far too soon, he will be forever missed by his friends and colleagues - but especially by his family, who realizes just how blessed they are to have had him in their lives.
James is survived by his loving family: wife Lisa; daughters Lucy Jo and Maren Joan Russell; parents James and Joan Russell of Golden Valley; sister Carolyn (Douglas) Grand of Toronto, Canada, Bruce (Leslie) Russell of Golden Valley, John (Melissa) Russell of Cologne; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Linda (Rich) Reever of Shakopee, Cathy (Carey) Anderson of Lakeville, Jim (Beth) Haning of Fairbanks, AK; nieces and nephews Lindsay (Nick) Anstett, Erin (Kody) Campbell, Allie (Russ) Gray, Tom Russell, Bill (Carly) Russell, Sally (Scott) Dvorak, Bruce Russell Jr., Claudia Russell, Celia (Niko) Athanasiou, James (Chelsea) Haning, Zachary Haning and 7 great nieces and nephews; aunts and uncle, Shirley Holt, John and Louise MacWilliams; cousins Ann (Tom) Welna, Sharon (Andreas Brosse) Holt, Susan (John) Fisher, Jeff MacWilliams, Anne (Chris) Killian; and many friends.
James was preceded in death by his cousins Audrey and Brian MacWilliams; uncle Robert Holt.
Casket Bearers John Russell, Bruce Russell, Tom Russell, Bill Russell, Bruce Russell Jr. Carey Anderson.
Honorary Casket Bearers Jim Haning, Rich Reever, Douglas Grand.
Barry Schneider
Schneider, Barry Age 43, a wonderful husband and a fun dad. Passed away July 3, 2007. Preceded in death by mother, Beverly Jo Brussell. Survived by wife, Marco; daughters, Allyn and Emmy; dog, Lulu; parents, Phillip & Barbara; brothers, Michael and Craig; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. The family wishes to thank Dr. Isaac Felemovicius and the staffs at Hubert H. Humphrey Cancer Center and the North Memorial Palliative Care Unit for all their compassionate care. Funeral service FRIDAY 12 NOON, TEMPLE ISRAEL, 2324 Emerson Ave. So. Memorials are preferred to Minnesota Colon & Rectal Foundation, (cancer research) c/o Deb Jones, 606 24th Ave.So. Suite 515, Mpls. 55454. SHIVA at Excelsior on Grand, 3820 Grand Way, St. Louis Pk. (Sat & Sun at 7 PM in the community room). Hodroff-Epstein 612-871-1234 Online guestbook at: www.hodroffepstein.com
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
http://www.legacy.com/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=90165249
Jeffrey Christian Schwantes
Schwantes, Jeffrey Christian 58, of Minneapolis, died of natural causes Sunday, May 1, at Villa of Bryn Mawr nursing home. Jeffrey was born October 25, 1963, in Denver, Colorado to Stanley and Jean (Christian) Schwantes. He graduated from Armstrong High School in 1982. Jeffrey attended St. John's University and the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. Jeffrey was an energetic and talented individual who spent the majority of his adult life in residences for the mentally ill. He was a caring man who enjoyed listening to music and talking. His favorite conversations were about his extended family and talking about the many adventures he had as a young man. In recent years, even as his physical health deteriorated, he greeted visitors with a kind smile. He is survived by his father, Stanley; stepmother, Valerie Toelle; sister, Julie (Steve) Boman; nieces, Lara, Maria, and Sophia Boman; and many uncles and aunts and cousins. He is preceded in death by his mother, Jean; and four grandparents, Martha and Irwin Christian, and Myrtle and Norman Schwantes. Jeffrey's family would like to thank the many caregivers and medical providers who helped him during the past 35 years. Jeffrey was buried at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis at a private ceremony. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 23 at 11 AM at Golden Valley Lutheran Church, 5501 Glenwood Ave, Golden Valley. Visitation will start at 10 AM. Memorials are preferred to Vail Place or NAMI. Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996
Published on May 15, 2022
Jolene Seeman Belchak
Jolene Grace Seeman was born February 4, 1964in Portland, Oregon to Gerald and Bonita Seeman. Jolene graduated from Armstrong HS Plymouth, MN and Oral Roberts University. While in college, Jolene worked in the TV department at OR and a part time nanny for the Richard Robert’s family, with whom she also enjoyed vacationing. Post- graduation, Jolene worked in the Oral Roberts Ministries business office then moved to Malibu, CA where she worked in an accounting department. After the 1989 Malibu earthquake, Jolene decided she had enough of CA and moved back to MN. She worked for Waterford-Wedgwood Company then Living Word Christian Center in the music and Accounting departments. Recently, Jolene was a substitute teacher for the Monticello School
District and worked for Shint to be closer to home
and their kids. John and Jolene were members of the Livina Word Christian Center running team. They trained together for the Twin Cities annual half marathon and from there began to date. They were married August 10, 2001. Their family was complete with the adoptions of Lorna and Logan. They cherished their family and enjoyed cheering Lorna and Logan at their sporting events. Their family vacations were mostly camping trips and visiting family in Roseau, MN. Their vacations included hiking, four- wheeling, zip-lining, board games, swimming and fishing. John recently purchased a small boat and motor, so he and Logan could go fishing on the river. As a family, the began attending Riverside Church together. John and Jolene are survived by Lorna, Logan, John’s mother Marlene, sisters Chris Drum and Pam (Keith) Markstrom, Jolene’s parents Gerald and Bonita Seeman, sister Debra (Jeff) Dahlin, Brother-in-law Todd (Janelle) Hahn, several nieces and nephews, and many other family members. They were preceded in death by their grandparents, John’s father Michael Belchak, and Jolene’s sister Janele Haenn.
Carole Swanson Strobel
Strobel, Carole M., age 52 of Shakopee, passed away May 27, 2017. Preceded in death by her parents, Jon Hardy and Karin Swanson. Survived by loving son, Stefan Jon Strobel, brother, Paul Swanson and many other loving family and friends in Sweden. Graveside service 11:00 AM Saturday June 24, 2017 at Eden Prairie Cemetery. Huber Funeral & Cremation Services Eden Prairie Chapel 952-949-4970
http://www.huberfunerals.com/book-of-memories/2963764/Strobel-Carole/obituary.php
Mari Louise (Wiest) Johnson
Mari Louise (Wiest) Johnson
Johnson, (Wiest) Mari L. of Plymouth passed away March 11, 2019 at the age of 54. Preceded in death by her parents, James and Phyllis Wiest; brother in-law, Murray Lucken. She is loved and will be deeply missed by her daughters, Meredith and Shelby; her former husband and best friend Steve; sisters, Kathy Lucken, Becky Wiest; brother, Scott Wiest (Debi); nieces, Ann Lucken, Courtney Wiest; nephew, Christopher Wiest; In-laws, Earl and Beverly Johnson; sisters in-law, Jody Johnson Slaughter and Jamie Johnson; brother in-law, Stuart Slaughter; nephews, David, Jonathan, Michael, Christopher.
Mari was a long-time resident of New Hope and attended Sonnesyn Elementary. She was a graduate of Armstrong High School in 1982. Mari attended the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. Mari and Steve married July 24, 1993. After working in marketing for Carlisle Plastics (Bloomington), Mari stayed home to raise her two daughters. She made life-long friends in every aspect of her life. Her first home as a Johnson family was in Westbranch Crossing (Plymouth), for 5 years and then just West to Wyndemere Farms (Plymouth), where she became a charter member of "The Women of Wyndemere". She was a fixture at Kimberly Lane Elementary with various volunteer duties that she eventually snuck her way onto the payroll as a Paraprofessional. As well as positions at Greenwood Elementary and Gleason Lake Elementary.
Mari was an avid reader, loved her mystery shows, "Criminal Minds" etc. and loved to travel. She experienced multiple cruises and probably way too many of Steve's business trips to golf resorts. She enjoyed annual Spring Break trips to get out of the "tundra" as well as trips from Wisconsin Dells to Orlando for volleyball, Vegas to Charlotte for soccer and then over and over again. It was a crazy whirlwind ride, but she embraced it all and loved every minute of it. Her daughters were everything to her.
Mari adored everyone’s animals and treated them all as if they were hers. She especially loved Maddie, Jack and Stella and most recently, Penny and Josie.
Her smile was infectious, her personality bubbly. Everybody knew Mari. What about Mari? Where's Mari? Is Mari coming? Mari will be missed but never forgotten!
A Visitation will be held Sunday, March 17, 2019 from 4-6 p.m. at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 East Wayzata Boulevard, Wayzata. For those who wish to honor her legacy please direct donations to the Humane Society, Golden Valley.