Obituaries

 

For the year of

January - February - March, 2006

 

Past Obituaries

 

2005

June - January

July-December

2004

January - December

 

 

Don Simonson

simonson@accessmn.com

 

Mlaker Funeral Home

A Family Helping Families

Warren Mlaker, Director

218.666.5298

27 South 1st Street Southeast

Cook Mn 55723

 

 

 
 

Mary Finstad, 82, of Buhl, and formerly of Alango and Sturgeon Township, died Wednesday (March 29, 2006) at St. Raphael’s Health Care Center in Eveleth.  Mary was born on October 19, 1923 in Virginia, the daughter of John and Maria (Berganni) Beltramo.  She grew up in Sturgeon Township and graduated from Virginia High School in 1941.  She served as a member of the Women’s Army Corps during World War 11.   After her honorable discharge in 1946, she married Theodore Finstad in Virginia on May 31, 1947. 

 

After marriage they lived in Alango for 35 years, and in 1990 moved to Buhl.    Mary worked in the Park Division for the State of Minnesota.  Her family fondly remembers her as wonderful cook, and always collecting recipes.

 

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Theodore “Ted”; four sons, Richard (Lynnette)  Finstad of Eau Claire, WI., Michael (Julie) Finstad of Eagan, Randal (Bao Qin Ou) Finstad of Buhl, and Gordon Finstad of Scottsdale, AZ.,; 1 brother, John (Marge) Beltramo of Hibbing,; 5 Grandchildren: Erik, Rachel, Ben, Brian, and Oliver Finstad, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

 

She is preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph and Costanzo Beltramo; and a sister who died in her youth, Carmella Beltramo.

 

Funeral arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook (218-666-5298)

 

Memorial services will be at 1:00 PM Saturday (April 8th) at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  Rev. Reuben Rosnau will be the officiant.  Inurnment will be in the Lakeview Cemetery in Buhl..

 
 
 

Mildred H. McDonald, 75, of Mountain Iron, died Monday, March 27, 2006, at her home. She was born May 26, 1930, to William and Helen (VanDerHyde) Akey in Burnett County, Wis. Mildred grew up in Wisconsin and Virginia. On June 10, 1949, she married Raymond McDonald in Virginia. Following marriage they lived at Sand Lake and then made their home in Mountain Iron in 1959. Mildred was a talented seamstress, did crocheting, enjoyed reading and her computer in her later years. She loved her Boston terrier companion “Bowser.”

 

Survivors include daughters, Patricia McDonald of Makinen, and Jean (Mark) Pohto of Cook; sons, Joseph McDonald of Clarksville, Tenn., Robert (Sherry) McDonald of Iron, Daniel McDonald (Michelle Anderson) of Mountain Iron, and Raymond (Connie) McDonald Jr. of Fargo, N.D.; 14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; mother, Helen Akey of Iron; brother, James (Wanda) Akey of Arkansas; sister, Cheryl (Kenneth) Maki of Virginia.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; her father; sisters, Betty Jane Ealy, and Joanne Kampf; brothers, William Akey, and Charles Akey; and a granddaughter, Susan Helen Jourdain.

 

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at the Range Funeral Home in Virginia. The Rev. Jeffrey Jones will officiate. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Virginia.

 

 

Judy L. Martinson, 59, of Spring Lake Park, Minn., formerly of Buyck, died Monday, March 27, 2006, at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale. 

 

She was born on May 26, 1946, in Cook, the daughter of Walter and Margaret (Pnakovich) Sokoloski. She grew up in Buyck and attended the area schools. She lived in Virginia for a time, where she worked for the former Cluett-Peabody Shirt Factory. She married Robert Martinson on Aug. 16, 1970, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Buyck. They had lived in the Twin Cities area for many years. Judy had been employed for Honeywell for 32 years. 

 

Survivors include her husband, Robert “Bob;” a son, Craig Martinson of Andover, Minn.; and a daughter, Kimberly Martinson of Fridley; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Victor Sokoloski on May 27, 1996, and Paul Sokoloski on March 4, 2001; and a sister, Jeanette who died in infancy.

 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Buyck. Fr. Larry Antus O.M.I. will be the celebrant. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral. Interment will be in the Forest Home Cemetery in Buyck. Funeral arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home, Cook.
 
 

 

Christopher Leo age 45 Sarazine, of St. Cloud and formerly of Cook died on March 24, 2006 in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Preceded in death by father, Bernard (Jim) Sarazine. Survived by mother, Christine (Sarazine) Kuitunen; brothers, Patrick, Michael and Jonathan Sarazine and Jeffrey (Lynn) Kuitunen; sisters, Bernice (Ron) Thoennes and Barbara Wellington, his financee, Tamira Grieson; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives.

 

Chris graduated from Roosevelt Sr. High School in Virginia, MN. He was a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg.

 

Funeral services at KOZLAK-RADULOVICH BLAINE CHAPEL (107th Ave. NE and Highway #65) Wednesday at 1 PM. Visitation from 11 AM until time of services. Private Interment. Memorials preferred to the Minnesota Raptor Center or donor's choice. He was loved by all who knew him and he will be deeply missed. KOZLAK-RADULOVICH BLAINE CHAPEL "A Celebraton of Life" 763-783-1100
 

 

Chad Bergman, 35, of Proctor, formerly of Cook, died Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at the University Fairview Hospital in Minneapolis. His  death was due to a sudden, unexpected complication of a blood disorder. 

 

He was born September 23, 1970, at St. Louis Park, Minnesota; the son of Charles “Chuck” and Gail (Hard) Bergman.   He grew up in Cook, where he graduated  from High School in 1989.  He is a 1996 graduate of Lake Superior College.  He had a passion for family & friends, fishing, hunting & camping that was intensified by his experience as a cancer survivor  He married Laura J. Dahl on March 20, 2004, at Detroit Lakes, MN.

 

Chad, his wife, Laura, and son, Matthew, had recently moved to the Duluth area to be closer to his family after the death of his sister Paige Bergman on July 27, 2005.  He was employed as a Respiratory Therapist at  St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic in Duluth. 

 

Chad was a beloved husband, father, son, & brother.  He was a cherished friend to many and brightened every room he stepped into.  His sense of humor and laugh was contagious and he always had a perfect way of putting difficult situations into perspective.   His ability to live in the moment and enjoy  every minute of life is his everlasting legacy.

 

He is survived by his wife, Laura; step-son, Matthew Bergman, at home;  his parents, Chuck and Gail Bergman of Cook;  brother, Seth (Lily Zurochka) Bergman of Troutdale, OR.; sister Kim (Eric Anderson) Bergman of Troutdale, OR.; along with numerous special uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends, and of course his dear pet dog, Daisy.

 

Chad is preceded in death by a sister, Paige Bergman on July 27, 2005; paternal grandparents, John & Vi Bergman; maternal grandparents, Delmar & Alice Hard.    

 

Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM Monday (March 27th)  at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook.  Rev. Melissa Stoller and Brenda Tibbetts ,AIM, will be the officiants

 

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

 
 
 

Donald “Donnie” Lee King, 54, of Zim died Sunday, March 19, 2006, at his residence. Donnie was born Aug. 10, 1951, to Donald and Mabel (Villebrun) King in Knife River, Minn. He was raised in Nett Lake and Eveleth, where he attended school. Donnie enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years. He worked on the oil rigs in Texas as a driller and was a cultural advisor with the Native American youth in Eveleth. Donnie was united in marriage to Kathryn Koepke on Oct. 15, 1983, in Virginia. Donnie was an iron worker and later became a millwright with Local 1348 of Virginia. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, ricing, woodwork and playing guitar. He also loved to do beadwork and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and the quietness of his home life.

 

Survivors include his wife, Kathryn; seven children, Chastity Koepke of St. Paul, Nicole King of Zim, Wayne King of Zim, Donnie King Jr. of Zim, Jonas (Cindy) King of Virginia, Eric King of Virginia, Donnie W. King of St. Cloud, Minn.; numerous grandchildren; two brothers, Roger (Kim) King of Virginia and Daniel King of Angora; and six sisters, Paulette Salevac of Sacramento, Calif., Trudy King of Indian Point, Orr, Yvonne (Clint) Sutton of Hinckley, Minn., Kim (John Beaulieu) King of Angora, Annette Font of Virginia and Jodi (Mike) Kleinbrook of Minneapolis.

 

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, a sister, one granddaughter and a grandson.

 

Visitation one hour prior to the 1 p.m. memorial service on Friday at the Range Funeral Home in Virginia. Deacon Don Goodwin will officiate. Arrangements are with the Range Funeral Home in Virginia.
 
 

 

Ben B. Wilkin, Sr., 81, of Cook, died Saturday, March 18, 2006, at the Cook  Nursing Home.  Ben was born on January 9, 1925 in Virginia, to Benjamin and Liisa (Santa) Wilkin.  He lived in Virginia until he enlisted in the Air Force in World War II.,  where he served in battles and campaigns in New Guinea, China, Eastern Mandates, Bismarck Archipelago, Western Pacific, Southern Philippines, and Luzon.  He flew numerous missions as a ball turret gunner on a B24 Heavy Bomber,  and was awarded the Purple Heart after being injured on a mission.  After his honorable discharge, he worked at the Hull Rust Mine, the lumber camps in Cusson, and got his start in the moving business working for Drieman Moving and Storage in Virginia.   He married Doris Gustafson of Cook on February 12, 1949 in Cook.   Ben and Doris lived in Cook for many years before moving to Blaine in 1974.  Ben worked for North American Van Lines until he retired in the early 1990’s.  He returned to live in Cook in 2003.  Ben loved the outdoors and was happiest when he was hunting, fishing, and camping, (most often in the most remote areas.)

 

 Ben is survived by his son, Ben Jr. (Tania) Wilkin of Cook; daughter Janine (Mike) Nielsen of Coon Rapids; grandsons Jeremy (Heather) Wilkin of St. Paul, Nathan and Skyler Wilkin of Cook, Lance Connor of Seattle, WA.,; granddaughter Laura Nielsen of Coon Rapids; twin Great-Grandsons, Ethan and Carter Wilkin of St. Paul,; sister, Clara Niemi of Virginia; 14 nieces and nephews, along with many other relatives and friends.  

 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Doris on June 8, 2003; and grandson Steven Nielsen on April 27, 2002

 

Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM   Wednesday  at the First Baptist Church in Cook.   Rev. Randy Swenson will be the officiant.  Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service.  Spring interment will be in the Cook Community Cemetery.  Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

 

Charles “Chuck” E. Domitz, 81, of Angora, died Thursday, March 16, 2006, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, with his loving family at his side. He was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and a friend to all.

 

He was born on Feb. 26, 1925, in Hulmboldt, Kan., the son of Charles E. Sr. and Ruby (Hunt) Domitz. He moved with his family to Joplin, Mo., where he grew up. Chuck served in the Navy during World War II, in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations, and was stationed on many naval vessels. After his tour of duty, he went to Southern Minnesota, where he farmed. He then moved to the Range, where he was employed for many years as a millwright in construction. Chuck worked at setting up large equipment at various taconite and paper plants. He married Rosalyn Heikkinen on April 14, 1956, at Mason City, Iowa. Soon after marriage, they settled in Angora, where they had since resided. He was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of American Union, Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757, and was a past Shrine member and constable of Alango Township. Chuck was one of the founding members of the new millwright union, Local #1348 in Virginia. He loved gardening, and was always reading and learning new things like locksmithing, hydraulic jack repair, along with being a ham radio operator and wood carver. He enjoyed the outdoors and nature, and liked feeding the birds and deer.

 

He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Rosalyn “Rosie”; one son, Stuart (Judy) Domitz, of Lino Lakes; two daughters, Charlyn (Chuck) Childs of Virginia and Gail (Jerry Lanari) Domitz of Eveleth; two brothers, LeRoy (Vera Dean) Domitz of Kent, Wash., and Delmar Dean (Toni) Domitz of Kansas City, Mo.; one sister, Doris Jean Gibbs, of Joplin, Mo.; three grandchildren, Jason, Adam and Amanda, along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

 

Memorial service at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with the Rev. Reuben Rosnau as officiant. Military honors will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Cook VFW and Orr American Legion. Spring interment will be in Alango Township Cemetery.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

 
 

Melvin G. Johnson, 89, of Cook, died Thursday, March 16, 2006, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth. Melvin was born on April 10, 1916, at Cook, the son of Christian and Emma (Newton) Johnson.   He grew up in Cook, where he lived most of his life.   He was a painter for American Bridge, and was a fishing guide for Bill Zup on Lac La Croix for over 20 years.   He married Marie Ortendahl  on December 23, 1936, at Glenwood, Minnesota.  They were long time members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook.  Mel had been a past Mason and Shriner, and belonged to the Local Painter’s Union.   He had built the house that he and Marie lived in for 68 years.  He was an avid fisherman,  and enjoyed traveling and  vacationing with his family. 

 

He is survived by two daughters, Dorothy Trackler of Cook, and Donna Sager of Las Vegas, Nevada; eleven Grandchildren: Jeffery (Nena) Johnson, Rhonda (Todd) Niemi, Renee (Lloyd) Roethler, Peter (Kathy) Johnson, Jody (Aaron) Boltjes, Anthony Grebenc, Fred (Linda) Grebenc, Jessie (Greg Jahola) Grebenc, Adam Tessin, Lisa (Duane) Maze, and Daniel (Anna) Setter; 26 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        

He is preceded in death by his wife, Marie on April 15, 2005,; one son, Rodney Johnson of August 3, 2000; one Grandson, Rocky Johnson of November 12, 2004,; six brothers: Clarence “Slim”, Sanford, Clifford, Leslie, Stanley, and Hilman Johnson; and two sisters, Ida Howland and Gertrude McIver.

 

Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM Monday (March 20th) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.   Rev. Melissa Stoller will be the officiant.   Pam Ruuska  will be the soloist.  Spring interment will be in the Field Township Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.
 
 

Mickey J. Zallar, 68, of Akeley, MN., formerly of Rauch, died unexpectedly of natural causes, at his residence on  Tuesday, March 14, 2006.  Mickey was born on January 10, 1938, at Chisholm,  the son of Martin and Katherine “Katie” (Godec) Zallar.  He grew up in Rauch, and attended school at Orr.  He lived in California for five years, then moved to Hibbing, where he was a painter for Rayco Painting and Decorating. Mickey married Betty Hayward in 1961 in Hibbing, and they were married for over 30 years.  He moved to Minneapolis, where he was a self employed painting contractor for over 25 years.  He bought the Dream-Away Resort on Lake Beltaine in Nevis in 1992.   He has resided at Akeley the past five years.  Mickey loved the Black Hills of South Dakota, especially trout fishing and panning for gold there.  He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed the outdoors, along with motorcycling.  He was a member of the Lions Club, the Brooklyn Park Fire Department, and the Park Rapids Collector’s Club.  He was civic minded, and sought involvement  to better the  communities he lived in.    Mickey was known for his zest for life, and will be sadly missed, but remembered by the many who knew him.

 

 He is survived by his two sons, Patrick of Nevis, and Daniel of Mpls.; 1 daughter, Suzette “Sue” Zallar of St. Michaels, MN., the mother of his children, Betty  Mason of  Brooklyn Park, MN.;  two brothers, Richard of Wayzata, MN., and Butch (Carol) of Silverdale,; 2 sisters, Jody (John) Chovan of Int’l Falls and Kathy Zallar of Hopkins, MN.; five Grandchildren: Brandon, Brook, Jacob, Jimmy, and Amy; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

 

He is preceded in death by his father, Martin on April 4, 1989, and mother, Katie on March 17, 1990.

 

 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11: 00 AM on Saturday, (March 18th)  at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cook.  Fr. Larry Antus OMI will be the celebrant.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  St. Mary’s Choir will sing, and Carolyn Blossom will provide the accompaniment.  The casket bearers will be: Ron Nosie, Brad Nosie, David Rent, John Godec, “Slugger” Foss, and Randy Nosie.  The honorary bearers will be: Keith Pierson, Arnold Lokken and Joe Hines.  Interment will be in St. Bridget’s Cemetery in Greaney.

 

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.  (218-666-5298)

 
 

 
 

Margaret Anderson, 77, of Maple Street, died Thursday, March 16, 2006 in St. Mary's Medical Center. She was born on March 11, 1929 to Gunder and Martha Fosso in Bear River, Minn. Margaret has been a Duluth resident since 1946 and was a member of AARP, Bear River Lutheran Church and had attended the Lakewood New Hope Lutheran Church.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Wilbert in 2002; and a son, Scott in 2003. She is survived by four sons, Douglas of Monroe, North Carolina, Mike, Steven and Kris all of Duluth; a sister, Glennis Anderson of Duluth; three brothers, Lorry (Beverly) Fosso and Wesley (Debbie) Fosso, both of Bear River, Minn, and Karl (Ann) Fosso of New Mexico; three grandchildren, Andrew, Greg and Shaun; four great-grandchildren.

 

Visitation:3 to 5 p.m. Sunday in Jarvi Dowd Funeral Home and will continue from 10 until the 11 a.m. services Monday. Burial at Morcom Township Cemetery, Bear River, Minn.

 

 
 

 

George N. Curry, 76, of Mountain Iron died Thursday, March 9, 2006, at the Virginia Convalescent Center. George was born in Duluth on June 29, 1929, to John and Matilda Curry. He graduated from the Mountain Iron High School in 1947. He proudly served his country during the Korean War, as an air traffic controller in the Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1952. George married Lois Kiiskinen on Aug. 18, 1956. They made their home in Virginia. He was employed by the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company, US West, retiring in 1990. Throughout his life, George was actively involved in many sports pertaining to the youth in Virginia. He was an active member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church, especially enjoying the Men In Mission Group. He was a past member of the Lions Club, and had served on the board of the Range Cooperatives Federation. He was a member of the American Legion Post 239 in Virginia, and was a volunteer driver for the American Cancer Society. George and his wife, Lois, enjoyed many years of travel during their retirement. They were past members of the Winnebago-Itasca Travelers and the Winnebago Northwoods group. George was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was known for his great sense of humor and love of life.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Survivors include his loving wife, Lois; two sons, Steven Curry of Eagan, Minn., and Patrick (Molly Reber) Curry of Helena, Mont.; a granddaughter, Chelsey Curry, of Helena, Mont.; a brother, Claude Curry; and several nieces and nephews.

 

George was preceded in death by four sisters, Virginia Curry, Mary (Bert) Torgersrud, Frances (Bill) Banks and Margaret (Ray) Prater; and his parents, John and Matilda Curry.

 

A celebration of George’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Gethsemane Evangelical Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Nathan Sager officiating. Military rites will be accorded by the Virginia Honor Guard. Visitation one hour prior to service. Inurnment will be in Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Range Funeral Home in Virginia.

 
 
 

Charles Stewart Olliney, 77, of Chisholm, died Wednesday March 2, 2006, at the Golden Crest Nursing Home in Hibbing. He was born Sept. 6, 1928, in Duluth to Wayne and Mabel Maroste. He was preceded in death by his parents.

 

Survivors include one brother, Earl (Norma) Olliney of Casper, Wyo., and children. Patricia (Ronald Soular) Jacobson of Eagle River, Wis., Katherine (Pete) Newman of Togo, Minn., Deborah (Wesley) Fosso of Bear River, Charles (Deb) Olliney of Waucoma, Iowa, Mary (Donald) Scofield of Bear River.

 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Lola I. Grant, 99, of Hibbing, formerly of Alango, died Monday, March 6, 2006, at the Golden Crest Healthcare Center. She was born Nov. 14, 1906, to Herman and Maria Kristina (Niemala) Makela in Chisholm. She grew up in the Chisholm and Alango areas. She worked as a beautician before moving to New York City where she worked as a cook for a doctor. She was united in marriage to Otto Grant; they lived in New York for several years before retiring to the Makela family farm in Alango.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Survivors include three nieces, Patricia (Victor) Emanuel of Keewatin, Candace Presley of Washington state, Nancy (Hugh) Steffey of Flagstaff, Ariz.; several great-nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Otto; sisters, Saima Ylatupa and Jennie Neale; brothers, William and Raymond Makela.

 

Funeral Service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at the Range Funeral Home in Virginia. The Rev. Jeffrey Jones will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Alango Cemetery in the spring.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

 

LeRoy Southworth, 81, of Cloquet, died Saturday, March 4 in Interfaith Care Center in Carlton, Minn. He was born on Sept. 8, 1924 in Duluth and was raised by his grandmother and uncle Walter Mattson on 'the farm' on the Iron Range in Alango, Minn.

 

He served his country during World War II in the Army Air Corps, flying out of Italy as a tail gunner on a B24 bomber. He loved children and after the war became a school teacher.

 

He met Arnelda Krohg while teaching in Bagley, Minn. and they were married on June 13, 1954. Together they had four children; Scott, Craig, Karyn and Karla. LeRoy loved to teach; he taught firearms safety, was a Boy Scout leader, taught summer classes, and during the 1970's he taught evening English classes for refugees of the Vietnam War. He spent most of his teaching career in Duluth and retired from teaching in 1987 while at Stowe Elementary in Gary. He loved the outdoors and until recent years enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. His passion though was traveling and sight-seeing and insisted on his frequent 'rides.'

 

Leroy was preceded in death by his son Craig; and his sister Marcella (Hank) Koivu of Virginia, Minn. He is survived by his brother Les Southworth of Thomson, Minnesota, his sister, Beverly (Harold) Hultberg of Naples, Fla.; his exwife, Arnelda; three children, Scott (Jean) Southworth of Cloquet, Karyn (Marshall) Peters of Ogilvie, Minn. and Karla Southworth of Cloquet; three grandchildren, Eric, Amy and Nicci; one great grandson, Declan; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

 

Services will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, 1000 Washington Ave in Cloquet and are pending at this time. Arrangements are being made by Northland Funeral Home in Cloquet, www.northlandfuneral home.com

 

 
 
 

Coral Wurzel 92, passed away in Florida on February 11, 2006. She was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth on May 10, 2000 at the age of 87. She is survived by one son Jacob and his sons Christopher (Cynthia) Wurzel and Nicholas (Jesse) Wurzel. Jake's wife Florence "Billie" Wurzel passed away on September 28, 2004 at the age of 65.

 

Mrs. Wurzel taught in the Cook School for many years. Their first business venture was the Evergreen Cabins two miles south of town on highway 53. Her husband then owned operated the Wurzel's Dairy Bar. Jacob is a 1956 graduate of the Cook School.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Hi Don and Muriel--I Just wanted to let you know that my Mom passed away on February 11th in Florida after a very short illness. The funeral and burial were in Pittsburgh, as that is where most of the family still live and where my Dad is buried.  I have just returned from Florida, where I have been taking care of the necessary things that needed to be done.

 

You have always been so kind and good about putting things on the web site, and she and I enjoyed seeing them. She was especially proud of her walk in the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. Really, it was just a bad cold that took her in the end. Her almost 93 years just couldn't handle it. I was there and spent the last few days with her as she grew weaker. She was very peaceful and in no pain, for which I am very grateful. I thought you would want to know.         

Best regards to you both.  Jake
 

Maurice Harold Mallum, 75, Bovey, died Wednesday, March 1, 2006, at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital in Grand Rapids.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

He was born Jan. 21, 1931, to Simon and Hanna (Kangas) Mallum in Bear River, where he grew up and attended school. On Oct. 8, 1951, he was united in marriage to Hazel E. Mohler in Cohasset, where they lived for a short time before moving to Grand Rapids in 1953. In 1958, they moved to their present location in the Trout Lake area of Bovey. He was employed with U.S. Steel for 33 years, John Deere in Grand Rapids, and as a farmer. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Grand Rapids, and the VFW of Grand Rapids. He was also a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church of Cohasset. He enjoyed his family, camping, fishing, playing cards and making crafts.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Hazel, who died in 1984; an infant son, Maurice, an infant daughter, Judith; a grandson, Chad Beer; and a sister, Minerva “Dolly” Leisure.

 

He is survived by two daughters, Lynn (Jeff) Liesmaki of Backus, Minn., and Tammy (Mike) Hewett of Chisholm; two sons, Michael (Pam) Mallum of Bovey and Bruce (Cheryl) Mallum of Bovey; 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; special friend, Jan Hawkinson and family; brother, Melvin (Donna) Mallum of Cohasset; five sisters: Marjorie Cox of Hibbing, Mildred (Harry) Burwell of Florida, Marlene (Dennis) Newman of Chisholm, Marilyn (Richard) Stone of Hibbing, and Mavis (Norman) Dahlberg of Iron; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Funeral: Services at 2 p.m. Saturday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cohasset. The Rev. William C. Zeige will officiate.

 

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Rowe Funeral Home and will continue for one hour prior to the service Saturday at the church.

 

Burial: Will be in Itasca-Calvary Cemetery in Grand Rapids.

 

Arrangements are with the Rowe Funeral Home of Grand Rapids
 
 

Theodore Smith, 86, of Pelican Lake-Orr, died  February 19, 2006, at the Virginia Regional Medical Center. Ted was born to Henry and Katie (Kadyk ) Smith on April 15, 1919, in Pipestone County, Minnesota.  Sadly, his mother passed away shortly after his birth leaving behind Ted and 5 siblings.  He was cared for by people in his community, and retuned to his home when his father remarried.

 

At the age of 14 he left home for Everett, Washington, where his uncle lived.  From there he moved on a farm near Lynden, WA., where he was a caretaker for 7 years.  He then went to Fairbanks, Alaska where he spent a year and a half supplying Ladd Field with dairy products and other commodities.  He returned to Pipestone and farmed there for two years.  His family  had since moved to Milaca and he rejoined them to received his draft summons.  He served  in the Army during World War 11., in the European Theater of Operations  for nearly 2 years and earned 3 Battle Stars.

 

Before he left for the war he offered his Ford for sale by placing an ad in the Mille Lacs  County Times.  He met Caroline Kiel who worked there and helped him with that ad.  They were married on August 14, 1947, in Pease, MN. and would’ve celebrated 60  years of marriage had he lived until next summer.  To this union were born 3 children: Dale (Robbin) of Ashland, OR., Jeff (Kristi) of Duluth, MN., and Sheila (Dean) Stine of Zimmerman, MN.

 

Ted owned and operated the Milaca Marine until 1981 when Caroline and he retired to Pelican Lake, Orr, MN.  They have made their home there ever since.  He had many friends and fishing companions.  His pontoon was a fixture on the lake and often a reliable guide for those seeking panfish.

 

He was preceded  in  death by 6 siblings: Jennie, Henry, John, Jake, and Al and by his half-brother, Marvin.  He is survived by half brothers: Dan, Maynard and Edward.  Also he has 6 grandchildren: Miles of Corvallis, OR., Chase of Ashland, OR., Billy of Duluth, MN., Mesa of Florence, Italy, Jennifer and Sarah of Zimmerman, MN., as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

 

He is also survived by Carrie, his wife.  Like others of his generation he met challenges.  He had numerous adventures and saw many things, yet he always said, “Caroline was the best thing that ever happened to me.”

 

There will be a memorial service for Ted  at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 1st, at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  Rev. Dallas Smith will be the officiant.  Military honors will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Orr American Legion Post #480, and the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars,  Post #1757.  Further notice will follow as the date draws near.

 

 
 
 
Carrie E. (Ausgaard) Kennedy 97, passed away February 26, 2006 at Aurora, Colorado  She was born on December 19, 1908 in Virginia , Minnesota. She married Raymond Kennedy on May 27, 1935 in Virginia. Carrie was a member of the Sand Lake Chapel for many years, and started their Sunday School with her father Ralph Ausgaard.

They Lived in the Cook, Minnesota area for many years and had the Meadow Brook Post Office for 12 years. Was a member of the Mission Covenant Church in Cook for many years. Their last home in Cook was a mile and a half south of town on highway 53. They moved to Colorado in about 1965. She worked at the Glenwood springs hot pool for ten years and retired around the Denver, Colorado area.

Carrie was preceded in death by her husband Raymond in 1971 at the age 69, and two sisters Inez & Ruth.

Carrie is survived by three sons, David, Chisholm, Mn., Gordon, Carlsbad, N.M., and Byron of Reno, Nevada and a daughter Doris Seline, Aurora, Co. 15 Grandchildren, 21 Great Grandchildren, and Five Great, Great Grandchildren.
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 
 
 

David H. Markwardt, 54, of Gheen, died unexpectedly while logging in the Orr area on Friday, February 24, 2006. David was born  at Detroit Lakes, Minnesota on February 19, 1952; the son of Albert and Hazel (Regevig) Markwardt.  He grew up in Orr, where he played High School Basketball and graduated  in 1970.  His family remembers him as a hard working logger who loved the outdoors and  enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He was a member of the First Assembly of God Church in Hibbing.   Dave also worked as a contract mail carrier for the Orr Post Office for over 15 years.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

He is survived by his wife, Kathy;  one son, David Jr. “Bino” at home; three daughters, Holly (Faisal) Raza of Mpls., Jenny (Michael Hoole) Markwardt of St. Paul, and Lindsey Markwardt of Duluth; one  stepdaughter, Catherine “Catie” Ayers of Grand Rapids, MN.;  six brothers, Jack (Patty) of Centerville, VA., Bruce of Ham Lake, MN., James (Sharon) of St. Cloud, Paul (Heather) of Shoreview, MN., Danny (Carol) of Bloomington, MN., and Dean (Marlys Allen) of Cook; two sisters, Judy (Tom) Long of Orr and Linda  (Michael) Vidmar of Britt; five Grandchildren: Brianna, Kira, Maleeya, Dustin,  and Kayvon; along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and many friends. 

 

He is preceded in death by his father, Albert on October 31, 1961, and mother, Hazel on March 27, 2003.

 

Memorial services will be at 1:00 pm Tuesday (February 28th) at the Orr American Legion Building.  Rev. Randy Williamson, of the First Assembly of God Church in Hibbing will officiate. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook

 

 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Paul J. Piccard, 82, died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2006. A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. EST Saturday at Holy Comforter Church. Bevis Funeral Home of Tallahassee (850-385-2193) is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32308, or the Paul Piccard Professorship, Florida State University, FSU Foundation, Tallahassee, FL.

 

Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, he came to the United States at age 2. In 1943 he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served in the 386th Infantry in Germany and Japan. In 1945 he returned to the University of Minnesota, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1946 and a Master of Arts in 1948. He married Betty Koalska in 1947, and in 1948 they went to Texas, where he earned a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Texas.

 

They moved to Tallahassee in 1953, where he had a one-year appointment at Florida State University. Forty years later in 1993, he retired from FSU as a professor of political science. During his tenure on the faculty, he served as the director of the Honors Program and president of the University Senate and was a mentor to hundreds of undergraduate students. He was a proud and loving father of five children, Bob Piccard of Vermont, Jane Piccard (and husband Hunt Greene) of Minneapolis, John Piccard (and wife Geraldine) of Tennessee, Mary Vance (and husband James) of Tallahassee and Ann Piccard (and husband Charles Reischmann) of St. Petersburg. Other survivors include two brothers, John Piccard of Pennsylvania and Donald Piccard of Minneapolis; six grandchildren, Dylan, Chris, Brennan, Liz, Mary and Paul; and two great-grandchildren, Alex and Zadie

 

Thanks to Sally Ludlow for notifying us of Paul's death
 
 
 

Karine Leigh (Seiffert) Melby 34. After a strong and courageous battle of 7 years with cancer, Karine passed away peacefully on February 23, 2006 at Memorial Medical Center in Ashland, Wisconsin.  She was born October 19, 1971 in Hayward, Wisconsin to Bruce & Janice (Anderson) Seiffert. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

She is survived by her father and step-mother Bruce & Lisa F. Seiffert of Drummond, WI; her mother and step-father Janice & Paul Bernier of Washburn, WI;  her brother  1st Lt. Lance W. Seiffert, USMC, currently stationed in Kanehoe Bay, Hawaii after returning from his Afghanistan tour January 20, and his wife Lisa Kersey Seiffert.  Karine is also survived by her grandfather, Gordon R. Anderson of Cook, MN, many aunts, uncles, and cousins from both the Seiffert & Anderson families, loving step-sisters and step-brothers, Christyna & Bethany Marks, Evy Ebinol and husband and children, and Adam and Benjamin Bernier, as well as the extended families of Karine's step-mother and step-father, all who have learned to love and admire Karine's unwavering faith and spirit.  She is survived also by her ex-husband David Melby, special friend James Nelson, and numerous faithful and loving friends cherished from high school and college days through her 13 years living in the Minneapolis, MN area and recently at her childhood home in Drummond, WI.  Karine was preceded in death by an infant brother, Nathan Seiffert, her grandparents Arthur & Bernice Seiffert, her grand-mother Lillian Anderson, her aunt Karen Anderson Harrison, and several cousins and friends.  For the past 8 months, Karine has been making plans and looking forward to seeing them again in Heaven along with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  At the same time, she fully believed in God's miracles, and felt that God could choose to give her many more years on this earth.  Her family considers it a miracle that they were blessed to have her with them for an extended time even after her doctors had given up hope of her survival.   The extra time God gave her was a special gift to many people who may not have otherwise ever known her strong spirit and cheerful attitude.

Karine graduated with honors from Drummond High School in 1989, from the Lake Owen Wisconsin Wilderness Campus of Philadelphia College of the Bible also in 1989, from John Brown University of Siloam Springs, Arkansas with a B.S. Degree in Public Relations and Business, and from St.Thomas College in St. Paul, Minnesota  with an M.B.A. in Insurance Risk Management in 2000

She was most recently employed by the Hays Group of Minneapolis, an insurance brokerage and risk management business.  She enjoyed the extensive travel and consulting provided by her career but also made traveling for pleasure and to visit friends and family a high priority and averaged a trip each year to somewhere out of the United States, as she would say, "just because I can."  Karine was well-known for her love of fine things, her style consciousness, and social and professional achievement, yet she continuously displayed in her home a simple refrigerator magnet which stated "people are more important than things".


Although admitting freely to many people in the last few months of her life that she sometimes had her priorities confused, she became increasingly aware of a great purpose to her life however long she lived, and the extreme value of friends, family, and faithfulness to God.  "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."

 

Funeral service for Karine Melby at the Hayward Wesleyan Church, Hayward Wisconsin, 10655 Nyman Avenue, 715-634-4613), Sunday, 26 February.  Viewing at 2:00, Service at 3:00. From highway 63 in Hayward, West on highway 77, ½ mile on left-hand side,  Burial in the Cable, Wisconsin cemetery at 10 Monday, Feb. 27.

 

 
 

James Pete John Rainbird, 74, formerly of Bois Forte-Vermilion, died Friday, February 24, 2006, at the Jourdain-Perpich Care Center at Red Lake. 

 

He was born on November 28, 1931, at Cloquet, Minnesota; the son of Fred Pete John and Mary (Light) John.  He grew up on the Lake Vermilion Reservation, and attended school in Tower.  He was a game warden for Bois Forte for a short time, and  served in the U.S. Army for four years.  He lived most of his life at Vermilion and at Lac La Croix.  He  repaired docks, cabins, did construction work at Vermilion, and was a fishing guide at Lac La Croix.   Jimmy loved the outdoors, and spent quality time hunting and fishing.

 

He is survived  by a son, Jerry Pete John of Duluth; and by his first cousins: Bill Light of Nett Lake; Alex Pete, Eugene Boshey, Bob Boshey, Jeanette Degan, Peter Pete, and Gloria Boshey, all of Bois Forte-Vermilion; Howard Pete and Myrna Norton both of Duluth, and  Linda Pete in Virginia, along with other relatives living at Lac La Croix, Canada.

 

Tribal Rites will be at 10:00 AM  Monday (today) at the Bois Forte Lake Vermilion Center – Tower.  Gilbert Smith will be the spiritual advisor.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  Interment will be in the Pete Cemetery, Bois Forte Vermilion-Tower.  Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.

 

 
 

Raymond P. Luoma, 82,  of Alango Township, died unexpectedly at his residence on Thursday, February 23, 2006.  He was born on February 9, 1924, at Minneapolis, the son of Seeti and Fannie (Wirtanen) Luoma.  Ray grew up in Chisholm and graduated from Chisholm High school in 1942. 

 

Raymond worked for Snyder Mining Company of Buhl until he was called to serve in the Army during World War 11.  He was stationed in India, where he was a heavy equipment operator building communication lines.   Upon his honorable discharge he returned to Snyder Mining, where he was employed for a total of 27 years, until its closing.  He was united in marriage to Joycelyn  Johnsen on June 2, 1951, in Alango.   Raymond was also a skilled carpenter and worked for St. Louis County as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement in 1986.    He enjoyed and was known for his good advice about his favorite hobbies: gardening, fishing, and hunting. 

 

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joycelyn; 2 brothers, Edward  “Bob” (Joyce) Luoma of Tulsa, OK., and Roy Luoma of Melrose Park, IL.,; 3 sisters, Lorraine Makinen of Bovey, Louise  Pender of Chisholm, and Mildred (Vince) Patti of Algonquin, IL., along with numerous nieces and nephews, and friends.

 

He is preceded in death by one brother, Ralph Luoma.   

 

Memorial services will be held at a later announced date at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

                                                                                                                                                                                                          

 
                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Rev. John Wesley "Wes" Forsline 77, born in Cook, Minnesota, died in Bloomington, Minnesota on February 20, 2006. Survived by devoted wife, Gwen; children, Heidi Dahlin, Tami (Marc) Hayford, Ladd (Berni) Forsline, 3 grandchildren, 5 brothers, 4 sisters, 37 nieces and nephews, plus spouses. He pastored churches in Duluth, Calvary Church (Whittier Area, Mpls) and was exec. minister of American Baptist Churches of MN, IA and ND. His two passions were the grace of God and religious freedom. He was an advocate for women's issues and the disenfranchised. Favorite place in the world: Lake Vermilion, especially if surrounded by family and friends. Wes will be remembered for his smile and deeply missed by many. Service at Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Av. S., 55408, Sat., Feb. 25 at 2 PM. Memorials preferred: Calvary Church, Struthers Parkinson's, or Friendship Village Memorial Fund.
 

Wesley was born number five in a family with ten children; he is also survived by nine siblings: Marie (John 83, 2001) Olson, Carl "Bud" Richard (Lois Carlson) Forsline, Doris (Arthur 76, 1988) Bakk, Hans "Gilbert" (Doris Johnson) Forsline, Bill (Carol Leander) Forsline, Elizabeth (Jerry) Maas, Daniel (Kathy Olson) Forsline, Sharon (Dale) Severson, Phillip (Janice) Forsline.  He was a 1946 graduate of the Cook High School.

 
 

Elton “Gumpy” Olson, 77, of Tower, died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006, at the Virginia Regional Medical Center. He was born June 15, 1928 in Cook, the son of Victor and Marie (Hollen) Olson. He was a graduate of Cook High School and earned a degree in counseling from St. Cloud State. He was a World War II Army veteran. He married Patricia Peyla on June 25, 1949, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Ely. He was a driver for Bridgeman Russell, where he met his wife, worked in the underground mine in Soudan, was a St. Louis County cashier and collections agent and worked for the State Unemployment Services.

 

Elton was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tower, serving as chairman of the board, and a Sunday School Teacher. He was a member of the Nelson-Jackson American Legion Post 245 in Tower, the Rotary Club, National Wood Carvers Association and a board member of Range Mental Health Center in Virginia. He had friends and associates among various agencies across the Northeastern Minnesota area, and was a Friday R.O.M. E.O. (Retired Old Men Eating Out) member. He was an Explorer Scout leader, United Way president, school board member, taught wood carving to children in Tower and was a Tower city councilor until his disability retirement.

 

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; two daughters, Julie Ann (Darwin) Mickle of Tower and Sally Jean Jakes of Woodland, Calif.; grandchildren, Jennie (Jeff) Erickson of Aurora, Patrick Mickle of Tower, Michael Jakes and Savannah Jakes, both of Woodland, Calif.; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Austin and baby Erickson; brothers and sisters, Harold (Arliss) Olson of Britt, Arlee (Doreen) Olson of Cook, Anna Marie (Victor) Walker of Ontario, Calif., Gladys (Willard) Olson of Minneapolis, Ruth (Sam) Fuller of Tucson, Ariz., Elof (Nan) Olson of Grantsburg, Wis., and Sam (Sandee) Olson of Long Prairie, Minn.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Funeral at 11 a.m. Saturday at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tower, with the Rev. Aaron Lofgren officiating. Visitation for one hour before the service. Military honors accorded by the Nelson-Jackson American Legion Post 245 in Tower. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery, Tower. Family Services provided by Bauman-Vermilion, a Bauman Family Funeral Home in Tower.

 

Grace Virginia Rein, 87, of Chisholm, died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006, at Heritage Manor Health Care Center in Chisholm.  She was born and raised in Chicago, Ill., by parents George and Alice (Charvet) Haury. Grace attended Mouton High in Cicero, Ill. She married Almar Rein on Sept. 10, 1939, in Cook. Grace lived in Chicago until Almar completed his service with the Army during World War II. In 1946 they moved to Bear River. Grace was active in the Bear River Lutheran Church, was part of the Ladies Aid and was a member of the choir.

 

Survivors include her daughter, Alice (Gary) Sixberry of Side Lake; granddaughter, Laura (Shaun) DeMars of Duluth; great-grandsons, Tyler and Nicholas Tommila of Duluth; sisters-in-law, Eileen Paciotti of Hibbing and Tootie Nelson of Babbitt; her caregiver of eight years, Dawn Dobson, and her beloved friend “Miss Bear’’; and several nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Almar Rein; parents, George and Alice Haury; sister, June Rein; and two nieces and two nephews

 

Funeral at 1 p.m. Saturday at Bear River Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Mark Palmer officiating. Visitation for one hour before the service. Burial will be in Morcom Cemetery in Bear River. Arrangements by Range Funeral Home in Hibbing.

 

Ellen V. Chos (Anderson), 84, of Cook, died Sunday, February 12, 2006, at the Cook Hospital.  Ellen was born on June 18, 1921, at Field Township, the daughter of Carl  and Amanda (Scott) Carlson.  She grew up in Field Township, and graduated from Cook High School in 1939.  She married Louis Chos on September  4, 1950, at Pingree Grove, Illinois.  They lived in Euclid, Ohio for 46 years, where Louis was employed for the Chase Brass Company for 46 years.  She attended the Illinois Masonic School of Nursing in Chicago, and volunteered her time in  helping others at the nursing home in Euclid.  Ellen was a longtime Sunday school teacher at the Lutheran Church in Euclid.. Louis died in 1992, and in 1996, Ellen moved back to the Cook area.  She was blessed to find another love, and married Gordon Anderson on May 3, 1997, in Cook.  She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Cook, and its Rebecca Circle.    She and Gordon volunteered for Sunday services at the Cook Nursing Home for many years, and she was a  member of the Neighborhood Bible Study Group and  the Cook Senior Citizens.

 

Ellen loved her garden, and part of her joy was sharing  her vegetables and flowers with many others. She is survived by her husband, Gordon Anderson of Cook,; a son, Louis (Diane) Chos of Gladwin, Michigan; 1 sister, Esther Jowaski of Cook,; and an aunt, Ann Scott of Cook, along with nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Louis Chos on May 6, 1992,  and two brothers, Albert Carlson in 1981, and Harvey Carlson in 1999

 

The soloist will be Kathy Forsline, along with several congregational songs.  Lorraine Walker will be the organist.  The casket bearers will be: Daniel Thom, Travis Taylor, Willard Pearson, Roy Pearson, Alberta Raati, and Amanda Zibrowksi.  The honorary bearers will be: Harry Holter, Walter Walker, Dustin Anderson, and Edward Raati. . 

 

SERVICES:  Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM  Friday, (Feb. 17th) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook.  Rev. Melissa Stoller will be the officiant. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service.  Spring interment will be in the Field Township Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook

 

W. Jack Hunter, 67, Buyck, died Friday, February 10, 2006, at his residence. Jack was born on February 18, 1938, at Virginia, MN.   He grew up and lived in the Bucyk and Crane Lake area most of his life.  He owned and operated Hunter’s Trading Post  of Crane Lake until his retirement in 1989. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and the outdoors. 

 

He is survived by a son, Greg Hunter of Hibbing,; and  a daughter, Tracey (Jerry) Christoff of Hermantown. 

 

Memorial services will be at 12:00 Noon Saturday (Feb. 18th) , at the Crane Lake Chapel.  Pastor Ruth Gangloff will be the officiant. 

 

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook (218-666-5298)

 

 
Boyd J. Helstrom, 77, of Columbus, Indiana died unexpectedly February 1, 2006 at Veterans Administration Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana from complications following surgery.

Boyd was born in Cook, Minnesota on August 4, 1928 to Joseph and Sally (Persson) Helstrom. He had served in the U.S. Air Force, was employed by Arvin Industries as a commercial artist for many years. Boyd loved flying radio controlled airplanes which he also instructed. Memorial services were held on February 4th. at Faith Lutheran Church in Columbus where Boyd was an active member.

Boyd was preceded in death by his father Joe in 1939, his mother Sally in 2005 and his sister Betty Pascuzzi in 1994.

He is survived by his wife Irma of Columbus, son Joe (Patricia) Helstrom and granddaughters Kaitlin and Kelsey Helstrom all of Noblesville Indiana, sister Donna (Mike) Picek, brother-in-law Russell Pascuzzi all of Cook, nieces and nephews Deb Pascuzzi of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mark (Diane) Pascuzzi of Cook, Terri (Bruce) Larsen of Britt, and Tim (Jackie) Picek of Cook, great nieces and nephews Tony, Gina, Laura, Lance, Bennett and Hayden along with many cousins and a host of friends.
 

Melvin E. Bonomo, 87, Cook, former longtime resident of Peoria, Illinois, died Tuesday, February 7, 2006, at the Cook Nursing Home.

 

He is survived by his wife, Clara who resides at the Cook Nursing Home,; 2 daughters, Jeanette (Francis) Sutter of Morton, Ill., and Kathy (Jeff) Elliot of Cook; a brother, Stephen (Evelyn) Bonomo of Peoria, IL., ; a sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Rose of Peoria, IlL., along with 5 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home in Morton, Illinois. (309-263-7426)  Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the hour of service.  Local arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.
 

Val Prepodnik's son dies five days after him

Michael V. Prepodnik, 56, of Iron River, passed away Saturday, Feb. 11, 2006, in Iron River.


He was born on March 13, 1949, in Chicago, the son of the late Valentine and Jean (Herrold) Prepodnik. He attended the Antioch Community Schools in Antioch, Ill., graduated from the West Iron County School System in 1978 and then attended technical school. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.


Michael married Patsy Nordstrom on July 3, 1976, in Iron River. He worked as a heavy equipment operator in the Chicago area and varrious other locations through out the country and took an early retirement in 2003. He returned to the Iron River area in 2004 to be near his family.


He was a member of Local 150 International Union of Operating Engineers. He liked to hunt and fish and enjoyed working in his workshop building furniture.


He is survived by his wife, Patsy; one son, Michael Prepodnik Jr. of Iron River; two daughters, Tracey Nordstrom of Iron River and Jean Ann Prepodnik of Iron River; and four grandchildren, Mercedes, Miguel, Lexis and Raul.


Visitation will be held on Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.


Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Norman Clisch, pastor of St. Agnes Catholic Church, to officiate. The West Side Veterans Council will accord Military Rites.
Interment will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Beechwood.


Arrangements in the care of the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron Rive

Michael's father's obituary is listed below, they died five days apart