Contact; Don Simonson at simonson@accessmn.com

DO YOU KNOW FOR SURE YOU ARE GOING TO HEAVEN?
Believe that you are a sinner (Rom 3:23) 

That Christ died for our sins and rose from the dead three days later (1 Cor 15:3-4)

REPENT of your sins and invite the Lord Jesus to come into your heart and save you from your sins

(Rom 10:9-10; Rev 3:20) Thank him for freely giving you the gift of eternal life

(Rom 6:23; Eph 2:8-9)..........Welcome to the family of God !

 Statement of faith

Memories last only if you share them.

Past Obituaries

2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003

Raymond Alfred Rask, 84, of Britt, died Friday, Oct. 5, 2012 in Virginia Regional Medical Center. He was born on Jan. 30, 1928 in Sandy Township, one mile from where he lived most of his life, to Alfred and Aili (Luoma) Rask. He lived in Gheen as a youth and attended Orr High School. He was a graduate of Cotton High School.

Raymond was employed as a conductor for the Duluth Winnipeg and Pacific Railroad for 45 years and was also proud to be a farmer. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant.

Raymond married Thelma L. Shogren on June 20, 1953 in Silverdale, Minn. He was General Chairman of the United Transportation Union for over 30 years and was a former member of the Sand Lake Chapel, Virginia American Legion Post, Laurentian Senior Citizens, N.E. Minnesota Cattleman’s Association and Virginia Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. Raymond enjoyed farming, cribbage, auctions, Kubota tractors and all animals.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Barbara Sanders and an infant brother, James. He is survived by his wife, Thelma; sons, James (Karen George) Rask of Melrude, Robert (Elizabeth) Rask of Britt and Owen of Iron; grandchildren, Gracie (Henry Reurink) Rask, Katie (Wayne Anderson) Rask, Adam Rask, Thomas Rask, Rusty Rask and Brittany Rask; great-grandchildren, Andrew Rask, Hendrick Reurink and Cody Anderson; nieces and nephews, including a special niece, Billie Jo and special nephews, Leslie and John; and goddaughters, Diane Farley and Linnea Bell.

A gathering of family and friends will be Tuesday from Noon until the 1 PM Memorial Service in Sand Lake Chapel. Reverend Richard Lohry will officiate. Inurnment will be in Sandy Cemetery. Honorary Casket Bearers will be Dean Rohlf, Todd Heinonen, David Anderson, Dennis Cook, Al Haavisto, Leonard Rent, Jim Preiner and Jim Holmes. Arrangements are by Mlaker Funeral Home, Cook.

John was born in on April 27, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois where he grew up and lived for many years. It was there that he was a liquor distributor and a bartender for 25 years. He married Kay Marie Anton in Chicago on February 15, 1960. After his friend Yale Corcoran from Chicago bought a resort on Lake Vermilion, John and Kay became summer visitors, and eventually moved to Cook in 1976, where they had since resided. He was a well liked and friendly bartender at the former Cook Municipal Liquor for several years. John was an avid horse racing fan, and often went to the various race tracks in the states and Canada. He had a great sense of humor along with a great outlook on life, and always brought a smile to those who passed his way.

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He is preceded in death by his wife, Kay on Nov. 28, 1983.

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He is survived by a sister, Catherine Siwek of Chicago; 2 nephews, Raymond (Vicky) Siwek and Gerald (Darlene) Siwek; and a great nephew, Jeff (Lucy) Siwek, all of Chicago.

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Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM Wednesday, (Sept. 26^th) at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, where visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Fr. Jose Peringarapillil, MCBS will be the officiant. Interment will be in the Cook Cemetery.

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Ray was born December 31, 1922 in Hibbing, MN the eldest son of Rome and Ellen Scofield. Growing up on the family farm in Togo he learned to hunt, fish, and enjoy the outdoors with his younger uncles. Ray attended Togo School until leaving to help on the family farm and logging with his Dad. He continued to log throughout his entire life, passing on his knowledge and love of logging and the outdoors to his family.

Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Dagne Victoria Myra 86 passed away at the Cook Hospital on September 8, 2012. Born May 8, 1926 to Martha and Bennie Paulson in Clearbrook, Minnesota, she grew up on the family farm and loved being outside with her father as he did his chores.

As a teen, she traveled with her mother and her sister to the west coast to work in fish canneries to supplement her family's income.

Dagne graduated from high school and in 1946 she married Vern Cheney. She and Vern and three children resided in Cook, Minnesota for several years. While living in Cook, she worked at the Cook Hospital with Dr. And Margaret Heiam.

The family moved to Hood River, Oregon, in the late fifties, and lived there until she and Vern divorced. While in Hood River she worked as the company nurse for Diamond Fruit Company traveling from plant to plant each day. It was a job she loved.

In 1991 Dagne married Palmer Myra. They lived in Goldendale, Washington, until Palmer's death. She then moved to Bemidji, Minnesota, to be near her relatives. In 2009 she moved to Cook, Minnesota, to be closer to her son, Mitch, and his wife Shirley.

Dagne's life was always an adventure. She had a knack for making friends wherever she lived. Helping people and animals was her passion and her friends and family remember her as "one of a kind", a legend, a character, lovely, crazy, and fun. One niece remembered that Auntie Dagne could always laugh the bad times away.

She was a wonderful cook, loved to bake and can. And she enjoyed sharing the results with everyone. She loved yard “saling”, quilting, but most of all, her family and friends. She was dearly loved, and is missed by all who knew her.

Dagne is survived by three children - Bradford L. Cheney (Peggy) of Estacada, Oregon, Pamela S. Tandy (Bruce) of Sammamish, Washington, Mitchell F. Cheney (Shirley) of Cook, Minnesota.

Grandchildren include Sarah Tandy, Benjamin Cheney, Byron Cheney, Julie Madsen, Dawn Gustafson, Bobbie Malecha, Craig Tourigny. She is survived also by numerous beloved nieces, nephews, great grandchildren and cousins. Surviving siblings are three brothers, Larry Paulson, Dennis Paulson and Gordon Paulson. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Doris Boardson and Ardell Bjerke.

Graveside services will be held at a future date. Thanks to all who cared for Mom these last few years. Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home, Cook, Minnesota.  

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 Carl Richard "Bud" Forsline age 89, of Bloomington, formerly of Northfield, Red Wing,   Kennedy and Cook, went to be with the Lord on September 5, 2012. He was born on October 18, 1922 at Cook, Minnesota. His parents were; Hans 75,1966 & Mabel 90,1990 Forsline. Carl and his  siblings; Marie (John 83,2001) Olson, "Bud", Doris (Art 76,1988) Bakk, Hans "Gilbert" 82,2008 (Doris 82,2008) Forsline, John "Wesley" 77,2006 (Gwen) Forsline, William (Carol) Forsline, Elizabeth (Jerry) Maas, Daniel (Kathy) Forsline, Sharon (Dale) Severson, Phillip (Janice) Forsline. Bud was a 1940 graduate of the Cook High School.

Carl is survived by wife of 61 years, Lois; children, Janet, John (Lori), Karen (Stan) Krebs, Joel (Amy), Mark (Ruth), and Paul (Beth); 11 grandchildren, and also many other relatives and friends.

He served in the Army during WWII. Memorials are preferred to Trout Lake Camp or Wooddale Missions.

Visitation 5-8 PM Friday, Sept. 7, Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel. Funeral service 1:30 PM, Saturday, Sept. 8 with visitation 1 hour prior to the service at Wooddale Church, 6630 Shady Oak Road, Eden Prairie. Reception to follow at church, Intermnt at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996 West 50th St. & Hwy 100

Carl Richard Forsline was a staff sergeant with the 1st platoon, Company I, of the 274th Regiment, 70th Infantry Division. He was inducted in Fort Snelling, MN on April 30th, 1943. He attended Basic Training at Kearns Air Force Base in Utah. He was then assigned to the 70th Infantry Division, the “Trailblazers”, at Camp Adair Corvallis, Oregon for Basic Training. The 70th Division then transferred to Fort Leonard Wood, MO. In early December of 1944 he arrived at the port of Marseille, France. On March 12th, 1945 Carl was hit by shrapnel severing the major artery of his right leg. (A telegram to his family stated that he was “lightly wounded”, probably to ease the fears of his relatives back home.) An interesting side note to Carl’s story is that a man he had known in boot camp and become good friends with but had not seen in a while was the medic who initially applied a tourniquet and probably saved his life. For his injury Carl received the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged on November 11th, 1945.

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Joyce Elinor (Laiti) Edblom, 81, of Duluth, went to meet the Lord on Sept 4, 2012 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. She passed away in her home, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Memorial service at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept 11 in the Cremation society of Minnesota, Duluth. Visitation: One hour prior to the service.

Joyce was born on April 04, 1931 to Edward and Evelyn Laiti.  She graduated from the Clover Valley High School in 1949 and completed her R.N. Degree from St. Lukes School of Nursing in 1952. She married Warren Edblom of Cook, Minnesota on October 25, 1957. She served as a nurse most of her life and was a care giver and had a heart for people and a love for the Lord. She was a church pianist and organist for many years as music was a big part of her life. She loved to cook and shared many a meal, entertaining for all. She also enjoyed trees, flowers and gardening.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents Ed & Evelyn, Sister; Betty Wenho, and brother; Wiliam.

Joyce is survived by her husband of almost 55 years, Warren Edblom; her children, Bill Web Jr. of Pace, Florida, David Edblom of Duluth, Corinne Beecher of Pine City, Minnesota, Randy Edblom of Duluth and Ronda Edblom of Walnut, California. 11 grandchildren. Brothers, Peter of Two Harbors, David of Duluth and Phillip of Duluth. One sister; Corinne Bloomquist of Duluth.

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Clarence “Cliff” Eugene Henderson, 84 of Lake Vermilion-Cook, passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2012, at Edgewood Care Memory Center in Virginia. Cliff’s beautiful voice was silenced here on earth after living with Alzheimer’s for more than 4 years.

Cliff was born November 19, 1927 in Virginia, the son of Clifford and Carrie (Garman) Henderson. He was united in marriage to Shirley ”Shyrl” Brandt on June 11, 1949 in Virginia.

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He was proud of many things: particularly: his family, wife, his sons, their families and extended family- his service to the country he loved as a Navy Seaman - his career as an Engineer at Standard Oil of Indiana (Amoco Oil) of 35 years- the home he created on Lake Vermilion- and living life to the fullest.

He was a man of many passions: song, he loved to sing and listen to music, dancing, laughter, architecture, building and repairing things, genealogy, sports- in particular the Green Bay Packers, entertaining and a good party. Cliff enjoyed the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, as well as mentoring and teaching his skills, serving as a volunteer fireman, his years as a Freemason and his Lutheran faith. His greatest passion of all, his wife, Shirley.

He was truly grateful for those memories that stayed with him until the very end and would want to thank all of his friends and staff at the Edgewood Vista in Virginia for their care and support.

Though silenced on earth, we are confident he was recruited immediately into Heaven’s Choir. When you catch yourself whistling or singing a little tune today, please, think of Cliff.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by wife, Shirley on October 25, 2007; a sister, Kathleen Sutich, and her husband Joseph.

Cliff is survived by his three sons, Craig (Elizabeth) Henderson of Soudan, Chad (Julie) Henderson of Andover, MN and Brad Henderson of Henning, MN; Grandchildren: Jeffrey, Patricia, Barbara, Makenzi, Kisha, Corey, Chase; Great Grandchildren: Chad, Sasha, Tiffany, Amber, Chelsea, Briana, Ava; and Great Great Grandchildren, Morgan, Easton, Hayden, Kyler and Burkley; niece, Terri (Cliff) Johnson, nephew, Mark (Kandi) Sutich, niece Gwen (Michael) Natus; Grand nieces and nephews: Daniel Grippe, Amity (Grippe) Alders, Seth Sutich, Sydne (Sutich) Savage, Thadeus Natus, Lucas Natus and Alexis Natus; Grand Grand nieces and nephew: Katie Grippe, Danielle Grippe, Porter Savage and Payton Savage.

Memorial Service will be at 2:00 pm Saturday (Oct. 13^th) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service. Pastor Joey Bailey from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Angora will be the officiant. Military rites will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757 and the Orr American Legion Post #480. Interment will be held at a later date at the Lakeside Cemetery in Biwabik. A reception in Cliff’s honor will be held at the Cook VFW immediately after the services at the funeral home.  

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Clara E. Bonomo, 91, of Mountain Iron and formerly of East Peoria, Bloomington, Ill., and Ocala, Fla., died Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2012. Check full obituary below. 

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Patrick “Paddy Mac” A. McDermott, 69, of Lake Vermilion-Cook, passed away on Saturday, September 1, 2012, at home of natural causes.

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He was born on December 18, 1942 in Minneapolis, the son of Anthony and Mary (Klisch) McDermott. He graduated from North High School in 1960. He was united in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony to Karen A. Lessard on January 29, 1966 in Duluth. He continued his education and graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1970, with a degree in Forestry and Wildlife.

The couple moved to Cook in 1971, where they have since resided. He was a Conservation Officer for 31 years, retiring in 2001. Pat, Paddy, or Paddy Mac, as he was affectionately known, was a member of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Cook, sang in its choir for many years and was a past council member. He served as a Beatty Township Supervisor, was an active member of the Ashawa Trail and Ski Club, and was Chairman for a number of years of the Vermilion Fairways Golf Board. He loved everything the outdoors offered, including traveling, camping, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, jogging, hunting, fishing, biking, and golfing. He was fond of a good game of cards with family and friends and always had a story to share. For 10 years Pat volunteered in Nicaragua, to help build and repair churches, housing and little schools. His family fondly recalls that he said he had a wonderful life, with no regrets.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his faithful dog, Bud.

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He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Karen; his children, Rebekah (Kim White) McDermott of Greenfield, MA and Sean (Gina) McDermott of North Oaks, MN; a sister, Mary Gail Koester of St. Paul, MN; 4 Grandchildren: Logan, Landon, Lexa and Magdalene; along with other special relatives and friends.

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Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am Wednesday (Sept. 5^th) at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cook. Fr. Joses Peringarapillil, MCBS will be the celebrant. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Tuesday at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. The casket bearers will be: Tom Musech, Brad Schultz, Chuck Bergman, Bill Peterson, Harold Johnston, Bill Green, Michael Marincel, Tom Fink and Logan McDermott. Interment will be in the Hillside Cemetery of Angora. If so desired, in lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to either the Virgie Hegg Hospice at P.O. Box 244, Cook, MN. 55723 or St. Mary’s Catholic Church at P.O. Box 609, in Cook.

In Memory of Pat

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Walter A. Saxe, Jr., Colonel, USAFR, 81, of Huber Heights, passed away on Tuesday, August 14, 2012, in his home, under the loving care of Vitas Innovative Hospice Care and family members.

Walter was born in Springfield, MO on November 8, 1930, to parents, Walter and Hazel (Blackstun) Saxe. He was a 1952 graduate of Penn State, a member in the Pi Kappa Alpha social Fraternity and Delta Nu Alpha transportation Fraternity. ROTC commissioned, he was called to active duty in 1952. He served at Eglin AFB, Florida, Komaki AFB, Japan and Seoul City AFB, Korea. He married the love of his life, Mary Jane Robbins on September 4, 1955, in Canton, PA. He attributed her unfailing support for his successful dual Federal Civil Service and Air Force Ready Reservist careers. Colonel Saxe served 33 years government service, primarily at Wright Patterson AFB. He graduated Air Command and Staff College, Air War College and Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He retired in 1985. Walter was dedicated to his family, church, (member of Sulphur Grove UMC since 1958) and serving his country. He provided 10 years of at home care for his wife who had Parkinson’s / Alzheimer’s until her passing in 2005. He was active in the local Alzheimer Caregiver’s Support Group, joining in 2005, eventually serving as a facilitator for the group.

Walter is survived by a brother, Ronald Saxe; son, Walter “Chip” (Debbie) Saxe; daughter, Amy (Rodney) Saxe Willis; and grandchildren: Patrick, Marlee and Kara.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at Sulphur Grove United Methodist Church, 7505 Taylorsville Road, Huber Heights, where the family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm. A private burial is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The National Parkinson Foundation, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 5018, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5018 and Vitas Innovative Hospice Care, 3055 Kettering Blvd., Suite 320, Dayton, OH 45439. Arrangements by Newcomer Funeral Home, 4104 Needmore Road.

Ron & Jean (Sikkila) Saxe lived in Cook a few year ago. Ron was in charge of the City Maintanence. They now live at Bedford, Pennsylvania. Ron faithfully sends the price of gasoline to the www.cookmn.com web site.

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Eugene (Gene) Boshey Sr., “BayBayináse” “Názatagaboo”, age 80, passed away at his home on Lake Vermilion-Tower, on Monday, August 13, 2012, surrounded by his family and friends. He was a former Tribal Chairman for the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Indians.

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He was born on July 19, 1932, to James and Jenny (Pete) Boshey on Burntside Lake in Ely, where he grew up. His family later moved to Lake Vermilion, where he attended the Tower School. A U.S. Army veteran, Gene rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion Post #245 of Tower and a founding member of the Bois Forte Honor Guard.

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He married Katheryn Day in November of 1956 and moved to Nett Lake, where they raised their 3 children. He held many positions throughout his life, including working at the Oliver Mining Company, Britt Sawmill, Bureau of Indian Affairs as a Forester stationed at the Bois Forte Reservation and as the Maintenance Supervisor at the Vermilion Social Center.

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Gene was first elected to the Bois Forte Tribal Council as District Representative in 1982, he represented District 1 – Nett Lake, until 1988, when Band members elected him Tribal Chairman, a position he held until 1992. During his tenure as Tribal Chairman, Boshey signed two gaming compacts with the State of Minnesota; one in 1989 for slot machines, and the second in 1991 for blackjack. The compacts have since become models for other tribes, and the Bois Forte Band’s Fortune Bay Resort Casino has become a major tourist attraction in northeastern Minnesota and one the region’s largest employers along with being the home to the acclaimed Wilderness Golf Course.

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He was a kind-hearted man who had many friends. He was widely known for his sense of humor and gentle demeanor. Close friends said they never heard him raise his voice, even during heated discussions. Gene was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying trapping and deer hunting, but his favorite was duck hunting on Nett Lake, where he provided guiding services.

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In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Katheryn Day; second wife, Noreen LaRoque; brothers, Charles Guyette, Elmer Boshey Sr, Ernest Boshey Sr. and two infant brothers; a sister, Jeanette Deegan; and a stepson, Alden Connor.

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Gene is survived by 2 daughters; Jeneal (“Turk”) Goggleye of Nett Lake, Barb (Darrel) Brodeen of Lake Vermilion-Tower; 1 son, Eugene (Terrie) Boshey Jr. of Lake Vermilion-Tower; 1 stepson, Loren (Diane) Connor of Nett Lake, MN; 1 brother, Robert (Phyllis) Boshey of Lake Vermilion-Tower; 17 Grandchildren and 25 Great Grandchildren.

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Traditional funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Saturday, (Aug. 18^th) at the Vermilion Family Wellness Center, where visitation will begin after 5 pm Friday. The Spiritual Advisors will be Gilbert Smith and Gene Goodsky, with assistance from Michael Dunkley. Pallbearers will be Boshey’s grandsons, Jerry Goggleye Jr., Robbie Goggleye, Craig Goodsky, Eugene Boshey III., Mark Boshey and Philip Brodeen. Honorary pallbearers will include Boshey’s good friends: Stanton “Buddy” Johnson, Kevin Leecy, David Morrison Sr., Ed Searles, Mike Dunkley, George Mihelich and Bob Reichensperger.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Bois Forte Medical Center and Essentia Hospice for all their wonderful care that they have provided to Gene and also to Mlaker Funeral Home for their support and wonderful service.

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Gordon W. Berg, 83, died on Saturday, August 11, 2012, at Boundary Waters Care Center in Ely, MN. He was born February 7, 1929, in Chisholm to Hilmer “Cap” and Runa (Fridlund) Berg and was a lifelong Chisholm resident. Following his 1947 graduation, Gordy’s career included working as an accountant for the Hanna Mining Company 33 years and DomEx for 8 years.

On August 6, 1955, he married Joanne (Lundeen) at First Baptist Church in Chisholm and together raised 3 children. Gordy was an active and committed member of Chisholm Baptist Church from his youth where he enjoyed singing in the choir and with the quartet, serving on the board, working with the youth ministries and participating on several committees. He also could be found keeping track of his favorite sports teams. He loved spending time with his wife and family and following his grandchildren’s many activities. Prior to his son’s death, he thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of Tim’s carpentry business, gladly assisting wherever needed.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years- Joanne; daughters- Pam (Dan) Kimball of Waseca, MN and Sandy (Pat) O’Halloran of Dakota City, NE; grandchildren- Ryan (Val) Kimball, Colin (Krista) Kimball, Joshua Kimball, James, Lindsey, Carter and Nolan O’Halloran; sisters- Marjorie Berg and Carol Worlie; many nieces and nephews; and special friends Todd and Bonnie Nelson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son- Tim; sister- Eileen Johnson; and brothers-in-law- Dan Johnson and Don Worlie 60,1994.

Visitation will take place from 5-7 pm, Tuesday, August 14th at Chisholm Baptist Church and will resume again on Wednesday, August 15th from 10 o’clock until the 11 a.m. funeral service at the church. Arrangements are entrusted to Rupp Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Chisholm.

The Fridlund Family of Bear River were relatives of Gordon Berg.

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Justin Lloyd Abrahamson, age 28, died unexpectedly the morning of August 3rd, 2012, north of Anchorage, AK.

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Justin was born on September 24, 1983 at Crookston, Minnesota. He attended school at Win-E-Mac, Fosston, and in Alaska. He served in the U.S. Army for approximately two years. Justin loved working with his hands, especially “turning wrenches” while working on older cars. He loved most animals, particularly “big” dogs and cows. Justin was a great storyteller and would often embellish his stories nearly beyond belief. He was loyal to his friends and would often put their needs ahead of his own. His concept of family was not confined to blood or legal definitions; if he loved or cared for you, you were considered part of his “family.”

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The last five years of his life were spent in the Anchorage, Alaska area, where he worked various jobs, mainly repairing and rebuilding motor vehicles. In recent communications with several people, Justin expressed a desire to return to Minnesota to be with family and friends.

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He was preceded in death by: his Mother, Anna Reine (Thompson) Abrahamson; Grandparents, Donald and Evelyn Abrahamson, Lyle Thompson and Marilyn Thompson; an Aunt, Kimberly Thompson; and an Uncle, Donald Abrahamson, Jr.

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He is survived by: his Father, Kevin Abrahamson of Cook; Grandma Barb Thompson of Mentor, MN; Aunts, Chris White of McIntosh, MN, Kelly (Rick) Phillips of Hutchinson, MN, Belinda Austin of Encinitas, CA, and Christi (Eric) Falen of Jerome, ID; Uncles, Dan (Tamara) Thompson of Wood River, IL, Patrick (Cherie) Thompson of Mentor, MN and Brian (Mukkove) Johnson of Palmer, AK; many cousins; and of course, all those other special people in Justin’s life too numerous to mention whom he considered “family.”

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Memorial services will be at 11:00 AM Saturday, (Aug. 18^th), at the McIntosh Community Center, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Paul Magelssen will officiate with Marilyn Malmanger assisting. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

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In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to Voyageur Lutheran Ministry, P.O. Box 1076, Cook, MN 55723.

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Blessed be his memory.

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Arrangements with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. 

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He was employed as an electrician in the construction trade.

Merwyn was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Survivors include one daughter, Tamara (Tom) Shustarich of Saint Michaels, Minn.; and one son, Tom Metsa of Milwaukee, Wis.; four grandchildren, Meggan and Tyler Shustarich, and Zachary and Matthew Metsa; and one brother, Mick (Laurie) Metsa of Hermantown.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wiliam 59,1971 & Martha 85,2001; and his wife, Carolyn Marie (Snell). Metsa on July 19, 2005 at the age of 61. Carolyn's parents were; Elmer Snell 58,1978 & Marjorie (Bolster, Snell) Storm 84,2007. Her siblings; Shirley, Donald and Jack 52,2008.

A private family service will be held. Arrangements are with the Landmark Funeral Home of Virginia.

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Bryant Makoto Hironaka of Kalaheo, Hawaii passed away on July 23, 2012, at Queens Medical Center in O‘ahu at the age of 59. Born in Waimea, Kaua‘i on June 27, 1953, he was an avid fisherman with the Port Allen Fishing Club at Port Allen Small Boat Harbor.

He was preceded in death by his father, Masayuki Hironaka.

He is survived by his mother, Satoko Hironaka, Kalaheo; sister, Dawn Nakata (Keith Olson) of Kalaheo and Cook, Minn; nephew, Ryan Nakata (Lamarrie Nerpio), Hanapepe; numerous cousins and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2012, at the Waimea Higashi Hongwanji. Friends may visit with the family at 3 p.m.

Service to follow at 4 p.m. A celebration dinner reception will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Port Allen Fishing Club House located at the Port Allen Small Boat Harbor. The family suggests casual attire and flowers be omitted.

Dawn's address in Hawaii

Dawn Nakata
3766 Kikee Road
Kalaheo, HI 96741

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Peggy Newman, 85, Angora, passed away on Friday, August 3, 2012 at the Cook Nursing Home.

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She was born on November 27, 1926 in Watertown, South Dakota, the daughter of Edward and Edith (Bartels) Steele. She grew up in the Cook area, and attended the Cook School. On June 28, 1946, she was united in marriage to Raymond A. Newman at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango. The couple lived in Angora where they raised their family and lived together for the next 60 years. Peggy has been making her residence at the Cook Nursing Home since 2006.

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Peggy was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango. She had enjoyed growing a vegetable garden, making great home made bread from scratch, blueberry picking and outings with her family at the cabin on Mirror Lake near Togo. She was known for her kind, soft heart for animals, especially strays. She loved to visit and was friendly toward everyone.

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The family would like to thank the entire staff at the Cook Nursing Home for the exceptional care given to Peggy during her stay there.

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She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Raymond on April 4, 2012; a daughter Barbara Nelson on January 1, 2012; and a sister, Ethel Farrington.

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Peggy is survived by a son, Gary (Julie) Newman of Angora; 6 Grandchildren: Holly (Keith) Dragisich, Alyssa Newman, Clint (Lisa) Nelson, Craig (Beverly) Nelson, Curtis Nelson and Corrie (Michelle) Nelson; 9 Great Grandchildren: Candace, Corey “CJ”, Jeffrey, Tori, Sarah, Staci, Tara, Ashley and Tad; a son-in-law Norman Nelson of Hibbing; along with nieces and nephews.

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Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday (August 9^th) at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev Arthur Dale will be the officiant. Special music will be provided by Carol Newman. A reception in Peggy’s honor will be held in the church social hall after the service

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Ernest “Ernie” C. Landgren Sr., 77, Nett Lake, passed away on Saturday, July 28, 2012, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth.

He was born in Tower on May 6, 1935, the son of Frank and Lillian Landgren. He grew up in Nett Lake and Orr, graduating from Orr High School in 1953. He was a great athlete at school, participating in track, baseball and football, and was an accomplished basketball player. He also boxed Golden Gloves and was a welterweight regional champ.

Ernie was a Army veteran and paratrooper in the Korean War, serving in the Army from 1953 to his honorable discharge in 1960. After his tours of duty, he moved to Minneapolis, where he worked for General Mills, Honeywell, and also drove cab for a time. He moved back to Nett Lake in the mid 1960’s, where he has since resided. He was married to Adeline (Sheehy) for 21 years. Ernie worked in the mines and was a Ranger at Lac La Croix for time, and became an accomplished carpenter, along with building the two homes he lived in. When in good health he enjoyed hunting, woodworking, craft working and later liked watching golf and Westerns on TV.

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He is preceded in death by 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

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Ernie is survived by his 4 children: Ernest C. “JR” (Pauline) Landgren Jr of Buck Lake, MN, Greg (Esther) Landgren of Tower, Terry (Teresa) Landgren of Pohaki, New Mexico and Lorna Landgren of Nett Lake;; one brother, William Isham of Nett Lake; 1 sister, Lois Siiro of Scottsdale, AZ; 11 Grandchildren, 1 Great Grandson, along with numerous other special relatives and friends.

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Visitation: From 3 to 7 p.m. Friday (August 3^rd) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with military honors accorded at 6 p.m. At his request, there will be no formal funeral service.

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Marilyn was a homemaker and a member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.

Marilyn is survived by daughters, Jacklyn (Richard) Lohry of Angora, Patricia (Douglas) Syring of Colgate, Wis., and Donna Farrell of Tomah, Wis.; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a cousin, Margaret Smith of Milwaukee, Wis.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard; and a granddaughter, Gail Lohry.

A Memorial Service for family members will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 3, 2012, in the chapel at the Pine Lawn Memorial Park, 10700 West Capital Drive in Milwaukee. The Rev. Richard Lohry will officiate. Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.  

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Randall T. O’Brien, 52, Lake Kabetogama, died unexpectedly on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at his home. Arrangements are pending with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. 

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Chris N. “Ike” Ikola, 52, of Elbow Lake, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, July 22, 2012, of natural causes.

He was born in Virginia on March 1, 1960, the son of Earl and Eleanor (Norberg) Ikola. Chris grew up in Britt, graduating from Roosevelt High School in Virginia in 1978. He furthered his education and attended Colorado School of Mines in Boulder, Colorado. Chris inherited the cabin on Elbow Lake after the passing of his father.

He has lived there since 1990, working as a handy man around the lake doing various projects. He would occasionally venture off the lake in search of work, or to visit the family on the West Coast, only to return to his nirvana which was Elbow Lake. We would like to thank all of the people on Elbow Lake who helped Chris through all the years there, extending a helping hand and companionship to him. You became his family.

Some might say he had an easy life, others would say it was hard. He did have a life of choices. Some of them we didn’t agree with, some we didn’t understand, but he did make his own choices and we need to honor them. We can only hope he found peace in them.

Chris loved Elbow Lake, having good times at the cabin and in the sauna with friends. He had issues, as most of us do, but he also had a good heart, a smart mind and a stubborn spirit (some call it SISU). He also was a hard worker, when he put his mind to something. He enjoyed fishing, boating, food, drink, a good card game, a good book, and an argument. He stood with conviction on his opinions, good or bad, never backing off. But he also enjoyed the simple things- as the company of dogs, nature and solitude all of which he loved on Elbow Lake.

We shall miss you dear brother, for all that you were, and all that could have been… you were loved. The above words were shared by Chris’ sisters.

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He is preceded in death by his parents.

Chris is survived by his sisters, Karen (Joe) Sloth, Lisa Ikola and Andrea “Andy” (Rick Wittgraf) Ikola; niece Jennifer (Nathan) Holkko, nephew Casey Sloth; and two great grand nephews Fynley and Barret Holkko.

No formal service will take place at this time, but a memorial service honoring his life will be determined at a later announced date on Elbow Lake.

Chris’ family would like to thank all of his friends and neighbors who were of great support to him.

Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Joan M. Olson, 71, of Crane Lake , passed away on Sunday, July 22, 2012 , at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale.

She was born Joan Marie Koslowski on February 15, 1941, in Hibbing ; the daughter of James and Rhea (Johanix) Koslowski. She grew up in Hibbing , where she graduated from high school and entered the Holy Sacrament of Matrimony with Lawrence Olson on October 15, 1960. Joan lived most of her life in the community of Crane Lake, where she and Larry owned and operated Olson’s Borderland Lodge for many years. Joan was a member of St. Joseph ’s Catholic Church of Buyck and Holy Cross Catholic Church of Orr. She was a member of Threads of Hope and Going to Pieces quilting clubs. Joan was a past longtime dedicated board member of Lake States Interpretive Association and a volunteer for Voyageurs National Park . She had a passion for various types of crafts, especially sewing and quilting. Her family fondly recalls that she loved to help others behind the scenes and that she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

She is preceded in death by her father, James Koslowski , her mother, Rhea (Koslowski) Hagsten, and a brother-in-law, Joe Petroske..

Joan is survived by her husband of 51 years, Larry; children: Jeff Olson of Shoreview, MN, Ken (Jeanne) Olson of Hugo, MN, Mike (Deanne) Olson of Loveland, CO, and Jeane Olson of Flagstaff, AZ; her step-father, Walter Hagsten of Hibbing; 8 siblings: Warren (Sue) Hagsten of WA, Jim (Kathy) Koslowski of North St. Paul, MN, Peggy (Louie) Rocco of Hibbing, Larry (Mary) Hagsten of Hibbing, Carol (Paul) Pustovar of Hibbing, Holly Petroske of Hibbing, Sharon (Luke) Lindstrom of Mahtomedi, MN and Karen (Ron) Deblack of Hibbing; 5 cherished Grandchildren: Dana, Rebecca, Connor, Nick and Colin Olson; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Memorial services will be at 11:00 am Saturday, (July 28^th) at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orr, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service. Fr. Frank Perkovich will be the celebrant. Mary Beth Reller will provide the music. Interment will take place at a later date in the Forest Home Cemetery of Buyck. Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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He was born Dec. 28, 1958, in Winton to Donald and Joanne (Sandnas) Carlson and grew up in Vermilion Lake Township.

Dale was a graduate of the Tower-Soudan High School and was employed at Fortune Bay. He was a caring individual and will be missed by family and friends.

Dale is survived by two sisters, Denise (Robin) Twite of Cook and Diana (Gary) Bachman of Virginia; five nephews, five nephews, Aaron Twite, Bjorn Twite, Christopher Twite, Justin Bachman and Kyle Bachman; special uncle, Dennis Sandnas of Florenton; and other aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Donald 58,1997 & Joanne 56,1996 Carlson.

Memorial service 11 a.m. Friday, July 13, 2012, at the Landmark Funeral Home Chapel in Virginia, with Pastor Brad Felix officiating. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service. 

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Arne S. Alt, 87, of Angora, died Saturday, July 7, 2012, at Essentia St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth. He was surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Angora on March 20, 1925, to Solomon and Susanna (Koski) Alt. He graduated from Alango High School in 1943. He farmed until he entered the U.S. Army in July 28, 1945, and served in the Philippines Radar Division 13^th Air Force during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and married Sylvia Laakkonen on June 16, 1948 in Virginia. During his working career, Arne worked for the Oliver Mining Company, Picek Construction, retiring from U.S. Steel in 1986 after 33 years of dedicated service. Arne and Sylvia loved to travel. They traveled the 48 contiguous states, went twice to Finland and for their 50^th Anniversary went on a trip to Hawaii.

Arne loved spending time at their Lake Vermilion cabin with his family and cherished the times riding on his pontoon boat and hunting deer with his boys. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook and belonged to the American Legion in Virginia.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother Walter (and wife Elsie) Alt; sisters, Gertrude (and husband Veikko) Rahikainen and Susan (and husband Alfred) Kumma; sister-in-law, Signe Jacobson; and brothers-in-laws: Alger Jacobson, Arne Ongalo, and John Laakkonen.

Arne is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sylvia; daughter Patti Alt of Marcell; sons, Jeff (Debbie) Alt and Ken (Patti) Alt, both of Angora; Grandsons: Craig (Orianna), Jason (Rachel), Chaz, Reed, and Riley Alt; Great Granddaughter, Emily Alt and soon to be born Kara Alt; his sister, Eleanor (Raymond) Phillips of Sturgeon; sister-in-law, Frances Laakkonen of Simpsonville, SC and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Idington Cemetery in Angora Township. Pastor Janeva Stromberg will officiate. Special music will be provided by Lewis Ronken. Military honors will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757 and the Orr American Legion Post # 480. A reception in Arne’s honor will immediately follow the service in the social hall at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook and all are welcome. If you are unable to attend the cemetery service, the family still invites you to attend the reception at the church at 3:00 p.m.

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  

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Joyce M. Scott, 89, former long time resident of Orr,  passed away on Saturday, July 7, 2012 at the University Medical Center-Mesabi in Hibbing.

Joyce was born in Spring Brook, Wisconsin on April 9, 1923. She moved to Orr at the age of eleven and lived with William and Josephine Orr. She met Melvin Scott when he worked at the CCC Camps in Cusson, and they married on November 11, 1939 in Orr.

She was a dedicated employee at both Patten’s Café and the Orr Café for 33 years, where she cooked and baked. She always had cookies in her home for people and kids when they came to visit. Baking was Joyce’s passion. She was a devoted member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orr, where she also cooked, cleaned and did laundry for the priests and church. Joyce enjoyed knitting, reading, current events, was an avid blueberry picker and ardent supporter of the of the DFL party.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Melvin, and one son Dale Scott.

Joyce is survived by one son Earl Scott of Las Vegas, NV; 5 grandchildren and 18 great- grandchildren, along with many friends.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, July 12, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orr with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service. Rev. Fr. Joses Pingarapillil, MCBS, will be the celebrant. Mary Beth Reller will provide the music. Burial will take place in the Leiding Cemetery of Orr. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. 

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Charles “Charlie” E. Johnson, 74, Orr, passed away unexpectedly at the Cook Hospital on July 5, 2012, with his family by his side.

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He was born on April 30, 1938 in Leiding Township, the son of Emil and Martha (Hartikainen) Johnson. He grew up in Orr and had attended the Orr School. He had worked for the Railroad for a few years, later moving to Madison, Wisconsin where he worked and met his future wife, Arlene Feavel. They were married on May 16, 1959 in Wittenberg, Wisconsin. After marriage they lived in Stoughton, Wisconsin where their three children were born. Charlie and Arlene then moved to Orr in 1974, then to the Myrtle Lake area in 1989, where they have since resided.

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Charlie worked as a heavy equipment operator, mechanic, logger and truck driver most of his working life. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He liked working on and restoring old vehicles, and enjoyed a good game of cards with his friends. Charlie was an avid reader, especially of western novels.

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In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one daughter; Cathy Marie Johnson on September 5, 1985; two brothers, William and Roger Johnson; and two sisters, Ardell Jackse and Lorna Hall.

Charlie is survived by his wife of 53 years, Arlene; a son, Randy Johnson of Orr; a daughter, Lori Manick of Orr; 2 sisters, Gail (Roger) Miller of Winchester, WI and Barbara (Dale) Leffler of Sweet Home, Oregon; six grandchildren - Jennifer and Jesse Manick, James Barton, Nicole, Sarah and Crystal Johnson; six great grandchildren – Kaden, Jace, Destiny, Christopher, Emily and Alaric; along with nieces, nephews, and friends.

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Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Orr, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant. Special music will be provided by James Barton. Interment will be in the Leiding Cemetery of Orr. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. 

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Jacob "Jake" Wurzel, 74, passed away June 2, following a two-year struggle with esophageal cancer.

Jake was a prominent member of Duluth's business community and a patron of the arts, having served several terms on the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors.

Born in Rochester, Penn., in 1938, Jake moved to Cook, Minn., with his parents in the late 1940s and subsequently graduated from Cook High School, where his mother, Coral Wurzel, also worked as a teacher. After studying for several years both at the Twin Cities campus of the University of Minnesota and at the University of Tampa (Florida), Jake came to Duluth and began his business career as a night desk clerk at the Edgewater Motel on London Road (now the Edge Resort and Waterpark) and quickly rose to become first the manager and then one of the owners of the firm. In addition to his tenure on the Symphony Board, Jake served as Chairman of the Minnesota State Motel Association, the Duluth Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Duluth Junior Achievement. He retired in 2004 as president of ZMC Hotels, the hotel management company he helped to found along with Manley and Erwin Goldfine.

His wife Florence ("Billie") proceeded him in death in 2004.

He is survived by his two sons, Chris and Nick, and four grandchildren.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: 2 p.m. Tuesday July 10, in Sacred Heart Music Center 201 West Fourth Street. In lieu of flowers, if so desired, memorials may be directed to the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home (218) 727-3555.

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Ben’s passions were hunting, fishing, animals, golfing, snowmobiling, cooking, camping, shooting, video games, hot sauces, and electronic gadgets of all types. He was an easy-going, good-natured young man who could bring a smile to anyone’s face. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched.

Ben is survived by his parents, Stacey Hazen of Spearfish, S.D., and Jonathan Holmes of Idington, Minn.; brother, Nate Holmes; grandparents, Jim and Alice Hazen; uncles, Mike (Sheri) Holmes, and Chris (Joyce) Holmes; aunts, Sharon Holmes, and Rachel Holmes; cousins, Jason (Sarah) Skaggs, Jenny Holmes, Matt Holmes, Sam Holmes, Seth Holmes, Simon Holmes, Max Skaggs, Linda Reese, Missy Hazen, and Matt Hazen; special friend, Jennifer Stevens; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Arden and Gladys Holmes; and brother, Jared.

A gathering time for family and friends will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 30, 2012, at the residence of Mike and Sheri Holmes in Idington, 8123 Hwy 53. Memorials are preferred to Contented Critters in Makinen. Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, a Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com. 

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Alan W. Porter, 58, of Duluth, formerly of Nett Lake, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, June 23, 2012.

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He was born on June 6, 1954 at Cook, to Smoky Sunberg and Shirley Porter. Alan grew up in Nett Lake, and lived there and in Duluth most of his life.

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He enjoyed and appreciated the outdoors, and liked his frequent rides on his bike. Alan was honored to travel with the Elders on their trip to Las Vegas and surrounding sites last year. He was a member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa. He is preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Debbie Porter.

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Alan is survived by his children, David Wakemup of Eveleth and Ashley in Virginia; 2 brothers, Keith (Tawnya) Porter of Int’l Falls and Ken (Patty) Bombay of Ft. Frances, Canada; 5 sisters, Sandra (Jack Burdette) Bombay of South Carolina, Fern (Ray) Smith of Clearwater, Canada, Christine Bloom of Cook, and twins Teresa and Tracy Bergman, both of Wabasha, MN.

Traditional services will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday (June 29^th) at the Nett Lake Community Center. Steven Jackson will be the spiritual advisor. The casket bearers will be: Lance Kingbird, Mike Goggleye, Mark Connor and Barry Porter. Interment will be in the Bois Forte Cemetery.

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Lee Walter Twite, age 59, of Minneapolis died unexpectedly on June 22, 2012. Lee is the son of Walter and Gail (Haaland) Twite and was born on June 9, 1953, in Glenwood, Minnesota. He grew up in Glenwood where he attended Glenwood Lutheran Church. Lee attended and graduated from Glenwood Public Schools. He attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and graduated with a degree in philosophy, humanities, and English. Lee retired in the past year from First American Title Insurance located in downtown Minneapolis after many years of service. Lee was a member of University Lutheran Church of Hope in Minneapolis.

He is survived by his sister, Helen Twite of Glenwood, Paul and Marti Twite of Spicer, nieces, Charlotte (Rick Pearson and son Dane) of New London, Jackie (Jeremiah Fitzcollins) of Minneapolis, also family members throughout the nation. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents. Lee loved nature and enjoyed time at the Twite family homestead cabin near Cook in the north woods of Minnesota. There he planted trees and fruit-bearing shrubs for birds and deer. He was an avid golfer and fly fisherman who regularly traveled to trout streams in southern Minnesota.

Lee will be remembered as being a loving brother and loving uncle. He was known as "Uncle Lee" by those with whom he worked. Lee is also remembered for having a caring pastoral heart even from his youth. He was a faithful friend and co-worker to all who knew him.

Funeral services for Lee will be held on Thursday, June 28, at North Heights Lutheran Church located at 2701 North Rice Street in Roseville, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 1 PM; funeral service will begin at 2 PM. Arrangements Roseville Memorial Chapel (651) 631-2727. A gathering for Lee will also be held on Saturday, June 30, at Glenwood Lutheran Church located at 206 East Minnesota Avenue in Glenwood. Visitation will begin at 10 AM; a gathering will begin at 11 AM followed by interment at Glenwood Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood (320) 634-4466. Lee was an avid trout fisherman and outdoorsman. If you desire to give an alternative to flowers, gifts in Lee's memory may be given to Minnesota Trout Unlimited, or the charity of your choice.

Lee had a number of relatives living in the Cook area, he was a grandson of Ingvald & Helen Twite, Cook pioneers.

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Andrew "Andy" Grebenc died on May 30th in Toledo, WA. He grew up in Cook and graduated from Cook High School.  After graduation he moved to Beverton, OR where he lived and worked until his retirement.  He was 72 years old.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents; Anthony "Tony" 88,1992 & Mary 48,1959 Grebenc. And one brother; Anthony "Bud" Grebenc 61,1998. He is survived by one sister; Mary Jo & Lloyd Reing, and one brother; David & Judy Grebenc.

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Charlotte is preceded in death by her husband, Toivo Anderson and her son, Marvin Anderson.

She is survived by six grandchildren, Eva (Dan) Lorenz of Bovey, Minn.; Marvin (Nikki) Anderson Jr. of Casper, Wyo.; Sandra Anderson of Hibbing, Minn.; Tammie Anderson of Minneapolis, Minn.; Christopher (Heidi) Anderson of Zimmerman, Minn.; and Michael Anderson of Zimmerman, Minn., 23 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Rowe Funeral Home & Crematory, Grand Rapids, Minn. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit to www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com

Raymond "Shorty" (Vida) Anderson 57,1979 was a brother to Toivo Anderson 65,1972, the husband of Charlotte.

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Ben Pauley Sr. 87, passed away at Parkview Acres Care and Rehabilitation Center on June 18, 2012 surrounded by his family.

Ben was born in Charleston, WV on April 4, 1925 to William and Jane Pauley. Brother to Allie and Jean. Ben went on many adventures in life and always ended up being the best.

As a young man Ben entered the military guarding the bomb bunkers in New Mexico in WWII. After his stint in the military he and his father went to Cloquet, Minnesota where they cleared timber, his travels brought him to Orr, Minnesota where he met Jenny Johnson McKinnen and they later married on October 31, 1948.

Ben and Jenny then moved to Arkansas and then on to Roberts, Wisconsin, where they became one of the highest rated dairy men and farmers in Wisconsin. Many of their nieces and nephews came and enjoyed working with them during summers learning the hard working ethics Ben carried through life. Ben’s registered herd of Holstein’s were one of the highest rated herds in the state. After many failed attempts at pregnancy Ben and Jenny sold out in 1963 and moved back to Orr, Minnesota and bought the Glendale Inn and Steakhouse and bang out came 3 boys Ben 1964, Will, 1966 and Joe, 1968. Not wanting to raise their children in a bar they sold it and moved to the farm where they raised a small herd of registered Holstein’s, beef cows and registered Appaloosa horses. Ben helped his boys win their way to many state fairs with their Holsteins. Ben and Jenny showed their Appaloosa horses the success was measured by the many trophies and ribbons and the 1975 World Champion Halter Colt! Their next adventure took them to Montana in 1980 where his work ethic was appreciated by everyone, he worked with. Ben and Art Christensen shared a special working relationship for many years. Ben and Jenny divorced in 1996. Ben retired and soon found himself helping his boys. He met Mary McClarin and they spent 10 happy years together going to Arizona in the winter and summers in Sheridan. Even in retirement Ben was always busy gardening, mowing the lawn and walking the dogs. Ben was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, many nieces and nephews. Ben is survived by his 3 boys; Ben (Sandy), Will (Jodi), Joe, grandchildren; Vance, Rudy, Kenny, Tracy, Shaina, Taylor, Dalton, Jesse, Joe, Brandon and many nieces and nephews and Susie Brown became a special friend to Ben visiting with him every day and taking care of him, (thank you). We will miss you dad!

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Sally L. Schlotec, 62, Lake Vermilion -Tower, passed away unexpectedly, on Monday June 11, 2012, at home of natural causes.

Sally was born on August 22, 1949, at Cook the daughter of Hugo and Emma (Oja) Haryn. She grew up in Cook, where she graduated from high school in 1967. Sally continued her education at Virginia Community College. She met Tom in high school, and they were united in marriage on May 1, 1971 in Virginia. They raised their three children in Cook, where they resided for over 20 years. They have resided on Birch Point on Lake Vermilion since 1999.  Sally was a exceptionally devoted wife, mother, and a loving and proud grandma. She truly enjoyed being at the lake, reading and spending time with family, friends and grandchildren.  Sally and Tom enjoyed frequent trips to Crane Lake and spending winters at Fort Myers, Florida.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a brother James Haryn on November 21, 2007 and one sister in infancy, Carol Jean Haryn.

Sally is survived by her husband of 41 years, Thomas Sr. of Lake Vermilion - Tower, 1 son Thomas (Paula) Schlotec Jr. of Eveleth; 2 daughters Julia (Preston Tripp) Maki of Embarrass, and Christine (Luke) Strub of Britt; 1 brother, John (Carol) Haryn of Long Lake, MN, and 12 wonderful grandchildren- Natalie, Dominic and Ethan Larson, Alex, Morgan and Tommy Schlotec, Maija, Markus and Mikko Maki, Samantha and Luke  Strub Jr. and Palmer Tripp, along with nieces, nephews and many friends.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday (June 15^th) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service. Pastor Janeva Stromberg and Rev. Ben Buchanan will be the co-officiants.

Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  

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November 14, 1929 - June 10, 2012

Kathleen Cynthia Margaret Potterton was born in Lindley, South Africa to Henri and Hilda van Olst, the youngest of three children and the only girl. She has no surviving siblings but several nieces and nephews who reside in South Africa and the United States.

She married John Edward Potterton, December 31, 1955 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

She is survived by John and their children: Susan Potterton Leding, (David), Corvallis, Oregon; Bruce Ingram Potterton (Kristin), Piedmont, California; and Karen Philippa Wallerius, Plymouth, Minnesota; and 6 grandchildren.

Kathleen, known affectionately as “Babette” or “Babs,” lead an interesting life of adventure. While growing up, she traveled extensively in South Africa and Zimbabwe before marrying John. She immigrated to the United States with John and their children in March 1968 from Stellenbosch, South Africa. They lived in Shaker Heights, Ohio until 1971, when they moved to Edina, Minnesota. On July 18, 1973, the family became citizens of the United States. In 1983, she received her B.A. in Literature and History from the University of Minnesota. Her life journey continued as she and John relocated to Pasadena, California in 1989. They lived in California until 2008, when they relocated to Corvallis, Oregon from Los Angeles, to live closer to their daughter Susan.

Kathleen will be remembered for her selfless love and affection to her husband and family, her fine sense of humor, and being grounded in the passage of life. She created exquisite needlework including embroidery, counted cross-stitch, and Norwegian Hardanger to be appreciated by her family for years to come. She worked on several pieces commissioned by Augsburg Publishing House in Minneapolis that became church bulletins and book covers; she volunteered to work on the extensive tapestry collection at the Minneapolis Institute of Art in conservation restoration with her daughter Susan; she was a creative writer and left a legacy of recorded family history; she always had something baking in the oven and was known for her Scottish shortbread; and, she loved to read.

Kathleen was a member of The Episcopal Church of The Good Samaritan, in Corvallis. Kathleen was a loyal wife and loving companion to John. She taught her children to be compassionate, observant, sensitive, and responsible. She had a great affection for animals. Memorial contributions can be made to Heartland Humane Society, Corvallis, Oregon.

A memorial service will occur at a later date this summer.

Kathleen was the mother-in-law of David Leding formerly of Cook. David is the son of Kenneth 77,1995 & Kathleen Leding. He has one sibling, Allison (Gary) Muellerleile. David is a 1973 graduate of the Cook High School.

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Astrid Irene (Grano, Leppala) Pasch, 74, of Eveleth, MN died on Monday, June 4, 2012 at Essentia Health-SMDC in Duluth, MN. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 8 at 11:00 a.m. at Range Funeral Home in Virginia, MN, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Don Wolf will officiate.

Irene was born on July 9, 1937 in Tower, Minnesota to Alfred and Hilma (Gulman) Grano. She graduated from Tower High School in 1955. She married Leonard William Leppala in December of 1955 making their home in Florenton and then moved to Eveleth in 1958. She started working at the Virginia Credit Bureau in 1970 retiring after 25 years. Following the passing of Leonard on December 20, 1987, she married Kenneth Pasch on October, 1991.

She enjoyed playing the organ, fishing, pets, and her summers at the cabin on Lake Vermilion, dining out and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband Kenneth of Eveleth, MN; 3 children, Brian William (Deanna) Leppala of Florenton, MN, Brenda Leppala Jacob of Excelsior, MN, Belinda Michelle (Greg Laugen) Leppala of Leesburg, Fl; grandchildren, Amanda Johnson, Cody Leppala, Leif Laugen; brother J. Earl (Bette) Grano of Cook, MN; sister, Ellen (Don) Wolf of Lansing, MI, numerous nieces and nephews and her furry friend “Peanut”.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents and first husband Leonard.  

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Richard "Jack" M. Seopa, 78, Bear River, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, May 25, 2012.

He was born on January 20, 1934 at Hibbing, the son of Mike and Edna (Jacobson) Seopa. He grew up in Togo were he attended school.  He served with the Army Infantry during the Korean War.  After his honorable discharge in 1958, Jack returned to Togo and was united in marriage to Barbara Mae McCue at the Bear River Lutheran Church on August 29, 1959.  They lived in Bear River and Babbitt for a few years, then purchased a farm in Bear River in 1965, where they raised their family and have since resided.  Jack was a longtime member of the Bear River Lutheran Church. He was a heavy equipment operator most of his life and worked construction with the 49er’s for 25 years, then  retired as a shovel runner from Hibbing Taconite in 1997 after 21 years of dedicated service. He had a committed work ethic and farmed beef cattle for years, which he enjoyed. He liked fishing, hunting and the outdoors.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Gordon; 2 sisters- Irene Tammi and a sister in infancy; a brother-in-law, Leon Sandberg; and sister-in-law, Meg Fox.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara “Barb”; 2 sons, Dan of Bear River and Rick (Karin) of Side Lake; 2 brothers, Roy Seopa of Mpls., and Glen (Rita Brabec) Seopa of Cook;  4 sisters, Evelyn  Sandberg of Bear River, Elaine (Jim) Hendy of Buhl, Carolyn (Wally) Fendt of Ely, and Gloria Percy of Casa Grande, Arizona; 6 cherished grandchildren: Jennifer (Derrick Kinney) Swanson, Cherie, Jonathon, Michael, Shaina and Myranda Seopa;  3 dear great grandchildren: Natalie, Preston and Alix; along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday (May 31^th) at the Bear River Lutheran Church.  Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, and will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Pastor Bruce Dissell will be the officiant. Pam Ruuska will provide the music.  The casket bearers will be: Darrell Sandberg, Dean Seopa, Jonathon Seopa, Michael Seopa, Tom Smith and Brian Tammi.  Military honors will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Cook VFW Post #1757 and the Orr American Legion Post #480.  Interment will be in the Carpenter Cemetery..

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Donald John Rautiola Jr., 57, Bear River, died unexpectedly Sunday, May 20, 2012, at his residence, of natural causes.

He was born on May 22, 1955 at Chisholm, the son of Donald and Patsie (Kyllonen) Rautiola Sr. He grew up in Bear River, where he lived all of his life. Don attended school in Bear River, Alango, then Cook, where he graduated from high school in 1973. He married Faith Binkley on October 23, 1976 at the Sturgeon River Chapel in Bear River. In his younger years he worked in the woods with his dad and Uncle Rodney and also operated his own logging and excavating business for a time. He was employed as a heavy equipment operator with Abramson Construction then KGM for over 25 years. Don enjoyed snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, working on equipment and was exceptional at woodworking. He finely crafted numerous items, including TV stands, cabinets, coffee tables, potato bins and bread boxes. His family fondly recalls Don as being a guy who “knew what he was doing…and he knew it too”, and being hard on the outside but soft on the inside. He took pride in building his classic Cobra car kit mainly with his son but also some help from friends. He relished telling stories about his kids and grandkids, and they knew he loved them and was very proud of their accomplishments.

Don is preceded in death by his father, Donald Rautiola Sr. in 1980, one brother Larry Rautiola in 1977, and a special uncle Rodney Rautiola in 1980.

Don is survived by his wife of 35 years Faith; his mother Patsie Rautiola of Cook; one son Donald “DJ” (Sarah) Rautiola III of Chisholm; one daughter Teresa (Clint) Warpula of Chisholm; two cherished grandchildren Dane and Anders Rautiola of Chisholm; his siblings, Connie (Tage) Johnson of Hallock, Terry (Michelle) Rautiola of Bear River, Lynn Metcalf of Hibbing and LeAnn Nelson of Hibbing; numerous nieces, nephews and many other special relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be at 7:00 PM on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with visitation from 5 PM until the hour of service. Rev. John Koppel will be the officiant. A reception in Donald’s honor will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church social hall after the service. 

The casket bearers are the nephews; Greg Carriere, Dustin Peterson, Anthony Zakrajshek, Cody Rautiola, Alan Zakrajshek, Jeffrey Nelson and Nicholas Johnson. The honorary bearers will be; Terry Rautiola, Tage Johnson, Mike Zakrajshek, Kerry Abramson, Gary Abramson, Mark Abramson, Ernie Seppala, Carl Reich and Donald Scofield.

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Donald's mother Patsie Rautiola age 76 passed away on September 1, 2012

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Ruth Fridlund Steffy, 94, Grand Rapids, died Sunday, May 20, 2012 in Cornerstone Villa in Buhl.  She was born in Bear River, MN to Mathis and Botilda Fridlund on November 10, 1917 and lived in Cohasset for over 60 years.  She received her RN from Mt. Sinai Hospital in Chicago where she was recognized as Nurse of the Year.  Ruth was an RN at Itasca Memorial Hospital for many years working the 11 to 7 shift so she could be home for her children.  She also taught at Itasca Community College in the LPN Program.  During WW II she worked as a Welder on Ships in Sturgeon Bay.  She married Ed Steffy in August of 1952 and they spent their life in Cohasset. Ruth was an awesome cook and seamstress.  She was an amazing Mom and wife. She loved her family and sacrificed for all of them.  Grandchildren were very special to her and could always get a smile. We would like to thank all of the wonderful and extraordinary staff at Cornerstone Villa in Buhl for giving Mom love and compassion these past two years, and restful peace in her final days with us.

She is survived by her four daughters, Debbie Witkofsky, Dyess AFB, TX, Lisa Watson, Pleasanton, CA, Sandy Steffy, Mizpah, MN, and Becky (Kerry) Hecimovich, Mt. Iron, grandchildren and great grandchildren, Nic (Gladys) Flannigan-Star and Sky, Dyess AFB, TX, Jollene (Josh) Latvala-Caiden and Caleb, Cohasset, MN, Mitch (Marcie) Witkofsky, Cohasset, MN, Clay (Poppy) Witkofsky- daughter, Colby, Grand Rapids, MN, Will (Rachel) Watson- son Caiden, Richfield, MN, Kyle Hecimovich, Northfield, MN, and Adam Hecimovich and Fiance’ Janell Eckert, St. Paul, MN.  She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Edla, Runa, Joel, Ezra, Paul, David &  Nora, infant child, Mark Charles Steffy, and her husband, Edwin Charles Steffy in August of 1993.

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Olive E. “Ollie” Appleby, 95, formerly of Orr, died on Dec. 10, 2011 at Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

SERVICES: Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 26, 2012 at the Leiding Cemetery in Orr. Rev. Joey “PJ” Bailey will be the officiant. A reception in Ollie’s honor will be held at noon at the Orr American Legion Hall after the service, and all are welcome. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook

Olive (Ollie) E. Appleby died on Dec. 10, 2011, at Coeur d'Alene Homes in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. She left us just shy of her 96th birthday.

She was born Dec. 13, 1915, in Trade Lake, Wis. Her youth was lived in Wisconsin. In 1938 she married Ray Appleby and resided in Pine City, Minn. Ray was a Marine so at the end of WWII, they moved to Orr. Ray was a Minnesota state game warden and with three young children already and three more children to come, Ollie was a full-time mom. While in Orr, she actively served in every capacity for the American Legion Auxiliary and was the election judge and a member of Calvary Lutheran Church. She knew everyone for miles around and made friends easily so for 32 years she created a column and wrote "Put in your oar for Orr" for the local Cook News Herald paper.

Ollie lost her husband Ray when he was 49 years young. She still had six children to raise so she took a job as a rural mail carrier, serving the Nett Lake area. In 1979 she retired and moved to Hayden Lake, Idaho, where she belonged to St. Marks Lutheran Church, the Hayden Lake Grandmother's Club, Christian Women's Club, the VFW Auxiliary and served as the election judge for her precinct. Ollie never met a stranger and loved a good time and was very hospitable and a truly happy person. She covered many with her love and homemade quilts. She enjoyed crafting, especially Swedish Huck Weaving, playing cards and board games, the outdoors and fishing. Her body aged and her mind slowed but her heart shared the riches of a life well spent. She told her family, "God gave you many blessings but, happiness is up to you."

She is survived by sons, D. Scott Appleby (Mavis) of Michigan City, Ind., Terry (Linda) of Zion, Ill., Tom (Pat) of Fremont, Ohio, Carey (Hazel) of Britt, Rick (Wendy) of Cook; daughter Patty Skogsbergh of Hayden, Idaho; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Irma Sundquist of Grantsburg, Wis., and Ella Lappe of Hinckley, Minn.; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends galore.

Preceding Ollie in death was her parents, Hjalmer and Lena Sundquist; two brothers, Charles (Swede) and Marlin; her sister, Evelyn West; son-in-law, Sam Skogsbergh.

Viewing will be Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011, from 5-7 p.m. at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel. Funeral Service will be noon Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, at St. Marks Lutheran Church 9485 N. Maple St. in Hayden. Burial will be Saturday, May 26, 2012, in Orr, under the care of Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook. Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel, is entrusted with the care of local arrangements.

The family wishes to give special thanks to the staff at Coeur d'Alene Homes and to Hospice of North Idaho for their loving care. Memorials may be sent to Coeur d'Alene Homes: 624 W. Harrison Ave., Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 83814, or to the Hutton Settlement Children's Home: 9907 E. Wellesley, Spokane Valley, Wash., 99027. 

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Leonard Lehman - A funeral Service will be held at the Silverdale Lutheran Church at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 20, 2012. A gathering will follow at the GRS Community Center. All family and friends are welcome to attend.

Leonard Lehman, age 92, of Northglenn, Colorado passed away February 9, 2012, at Exempla Lutheran Collier Center Hospice, in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Leonard, and his twin Lyno, were born in Greaney, MN on September 25, 1919, to Oscar and Tillie (Kaiser) Lehman. He married Madeline Eddy on June 27, 1942 in Parkville, Minnesota. He drove truck for St. Louis County when he was twelve years old. He was a heavy equipment operator and liked operating the equipment more than he did working on them. He was a very skilled operator and was requested to do most finishing jobs. He also worked construction and was a mechanic and diesel mechanic all his life, putting in his last engine six months ago. They moved to Colorado in 1972 where he worked as a heavy equipment mechanic. He also taught at a Diesel Mechanics School in Denver. But what he enjoyed most was working on his 1940 Chevy.

Leonard is survived by Madeline, his loving wife of 69 years; one son LeRoy (Sylvia) Lehman of Hibbing; two daughters, Beverly Lehman of Westminster, CO, and Yvonne Lehman of Northglenn, CO; twelve grandchildren, Archie (Ginny) McWilliams of Ammon, ID; John (LaRee) McWilliams of Westminster, CO; David (Heather) McWilliams Kremmling, CO; Greg (Monica) Foerster of San Diego, CA; , Charlene (Brian) Smet of Bellingham, WA; Jeff (Jane) Foerster of Portland, OR; Cheri Peet (Kurt Grutzmacher) of Elk River, MN; Keith Lehman of Virginia, MN; Michelle (Martin) Cunningham of Princeton, MN; Chris (Corinna) Dahl of Seattle, WA; Eric (Ann Marie) Dahl of Onalaska, WI; Jewel (Jeff) Cavazos of Northglenn, CO; twenty-five great grandchildren; and two great-great grandsons; 2 sister-in laws Olive Lehman and Helen Lehman; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Tillie Lehman; 5 brothers, Earl and Gladys (Johnson) Lehman, Roy Lehman, Oscar and Pearl (Eddy) Lehman, Clarence Lehman, and Lyno Lehman; 3 sisters, Lillian LeTourneau Engstrom, Mildred Ryan Plaisted, and Leora Ruth Lehman; and his daughter and son-in-law Lynnette and Archie McWilliams; and nieces and nephews. 

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Frank J. Pierce, age 78, of Balkan Township, died Sunday, May 13, 2012 at Fairview University Medical Center – Mesabi in Hibbing. He was born January 13, 1934 in Rauch, MN to John A. and Frances F. (Kovach) Pierce. He attended Harrigan School, Silverdale School and finally at Orr. He grew up in Rauch until the family moved to Chisholm in 1950, and he had been a Balkan resident since 1993.

Frank worked on the ore boats for American Steamship co. and retired in 1996 as a Crane Operator for Eveleth Mines after 31 ½ years of service. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church; Chapter Director of Gold Wing Road Riders Assn. Chapter I; Minnesota Street Rod Assn.; and Shifters Car Club.

Survivors include his wife – Marie; daughter – Lauri (Chuck) Greenberg of Woodbury, MN; step-sons – Thomas Kearney of Hibbing; Michael (Kayla) Kearney of Burnsville, MN; granddaughter – Andrea (Jon Larson) Pluth of Chisholm; grandsons – Patrick Goerdt of Hibbing and Treven Kearney of Burnsville; great-grandchildren – Vanessa Larson and Ean Larson of Chisholm; special granddaughter - Alexis Pierce of Hibbing; brother – Bernard (Geraldine) Pierce of Hibbing; sisters – Betty (Dick) Wilson of Biwabik; Shirley (John) Slavich of Gilbert; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and cousins; countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, May 17, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Chisholm, with Rev. Fr. Fred Method celebrating. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Rupp Funeral Home & Cremation Service Chapel with Parish Prayers at 7:00 PM on Wednesday and continue for one hour prior to the mass at the church on Thursday. Inurnment will follow in Chisholm Cemetery.

The Pierce Farm was the show place of the Rauch/Silverdale area. It was located along State Highway #65 and across the Little Fork River from the Zeleznikar Farm. Frank was with 1952 class of the Orr High School until moving to Chisholm.

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Margaret A. “Marge” (Rutka) Prepodnik, 84, Las Vegas formerly of Greaney, passed away peacefully in her sleep January 10, 2012, at her home in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Marge was born in Duluth on August 23, 1927 the daughter of Stanley J. and Mary A. (Krall) Rutka. She married Joseph V. Prepodnik on June 28, 1947 in Greaney.  Marge loved to pick berries, garden, fish, and worked hard raising her family of 5. However, she always had time to dance the Schottische with Joe at the American Legion in Greaney on a Friday night. She enjoyed attending the kids sporting events and pulling a few slots in Vegas. Singing a rousing version of “Herr Schmidt” with friends was always in the offing. Marge supplied the entire community with upholstery needs, along with multitude of her other creative talents, both in Greaney and Las Vegas. None of us will ever forget the love, laughs, and friendships on the “back 40”. In her later years she was an avid painter as well as actively quilting, crocheting, or knitting baby blankets for countless foster children in the Las Vegas area. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cook.

She is preceded in death by her parents Stanley and Mary Rutka; her beloved husband Joe on September 9, 2004;  infant son Andrew; brother William; and infant sister Mary.

Marge is survived by her loving children; Bill (Tawee) Prepodnik of Owatonna, MN,  Mary Ann (Mike) Pochowski of Las Vegas, NV, Bernie (Kay) Prepodnik of Campbellsport, WI,  Jim (Kris) Prepodnik and John (Maryann) Prepodnik both of Greaney,  One brother, Stanley (Dorothy) Rutka of Virginia; one sister, Dolores (Bud) Hagen of Henderson, MN. Marge was blessed with 13 Grandchildren, 10 Great-Grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

The memorial Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 19^th, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cook, with visitation held one hour prior to the service. Rev. Father Jose Peringarapillil, MCBS will be the celebrant.  Honorary bearers will be her grandchildren and great- grandchildren (present and /or absent).  Escorting Marge to her final resting place next to her husband Joe will be Grandchildren: Joseph, Annette, Wayne, Greg, Alan, Gina, Josh, John, Jenny, Andrew, Jessica, Jenny and Patty- Great-Grandchildren: William, Alyssa, Emmy, Julianne, Arianna, Aja, Jonathan, Megan, Nicolas, and MatthewA reception in Marge’s honor will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Social Hall immediately after the funeral. The family interment will take place  at St. Bridget’s Catholic Cemetery in Greaney.  Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Jerome (Jerry) Swanson, 65, of Island Park, passed away from complications of diabetes and kidney failure on Thursday, May 10, 2012, at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

Jerry was born January 25, 1947, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Jessie S. and Barbara Joy Swanson. He grew up in Tampa, Florida and graduated from Seminole High School in 1965. He attended a vocational technical school near Tampa and in 1966 he joined the US Air Force, where he trained as an automotive mechanic. Jerry was stationed for a while in Germany and that is where his love for travel began. He was discharged in 1970 after earning the enlisted rank of Staff Sergeant E-5.

In 1974 Jerry helped start up a computer manufacturing company. In 1981 he managed the Ely Theater.

Jerry came to Island Park in 1983. As he would tell the story “I got drunk at Sunset and ended up buying it.”

For many years, Sunset Lodge and Resort, on US Hwy 20 near the junction of 20 and Hwy 87, was a beloved establishment for locals and tourists. It was a favorite place to play pool and to dance to live music and tunes on the jukebox. It was a place where locals could stay in touch with one another and network. If you needed firewood, or a fence built, or a contractor to build a cabin, chances are you would make the right connections at Sunset.

Sunset was also a place where people from Island Park and West Yellowstone mingled and shared news of one another’s communities, since it’s just 14 miles from West Yellowstone. Many groups of snowmobilers and hunters from Minnesota and Canada came to stay there — it was on the snowmobile trail linking Idaho and Montana.

Couples met at the lodge’s weekend dances. People were married at the lodge and birthday, anniversary, and memorial services were held there. People from all over the area and beyond attended Sunset’s fall and spring pig roasts and New Year’s Eve parties.

The lodge was built on a section of the original Peter Rahn homestead. The property covers 124 acres. The resort was built over several years, starting with a two-story, four-bedroom house. Later, others rooms were added to the first floor that accommodated the bar — known as the longest bar in the state — a cafe, and a poolroom. A motel and cabins were added for overnight guests,

Gene and JoAn Jones purchased the resort in 1954, and the bar was cut into two pieces. One went to another Island Park establishment, and no one seems to know where the other piece went. A new, smaller bar was built along the lodge’s east wall.

In the early 1970’s, Jones added a chair lift that operated for one to one and a half seasons. Years later, when interest was renewed in operating the lift, new safety regulations were in play the lift did not meet, so the idea was abandoned. For many years, telemark skiers climbed the steep hill behind the lodge, following the chair lift’s path, and made elegant turns down the mountain. Swanson stopped that tradition due to liability concerns.

Swanson was partial owner of the resort in the 1980’s, when he lived in Las Vegas. He became sole owner in 1992, and moved to Island Park to serve as its manager and hopefully make it more financially successful than had previous managers with no ownership interest.

Not long after Swanson took over the lodge, a local carver, one of the Sherwood descendants, made a sign that gave the lodge its nickname, “Malfunction Junction.”

Jerry met his best friend, partner, and wife, Sandy, in 1991. They operated Sunset together for the next 11 years. In 2002, they retired and Jerry spent three years as a volunteer for the Island Park Fire Department.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy Swanson, brothers Jessie and Jim, and sisters Judy and Janie. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother John, and sister Barbara. He will be buried at Tower-Soudan Cemetery in Minnesota. A celebration of his life will be held in Island Park, details to be announced.

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Jacob V.  “Jake” Cayo 72, Virginia, formerly of Cook, passed away unexpectedly on April 25th 2012  at Essentia Health- St. Mary's Hospital in Duluth, surrounded in prayer by his family.

Jacob was born on August 13, 1939 in Duluth to Jacob L. and Goldie Cayo. He graduated from Cathedral High School, had worked with his parents in Cayo Dental Lab, had driven ambulance and was a member of the National Guard for six years. Jake then took more training in New York for making dentures, and later worked for Patterson Dental Lab, repairing dental equipment in several states. 

He married Judith Angell in Duluth and after moving several times with their three children, settled in Cook, where he gained employment with Minntac. Jake worked there as a millwright for 27 years.  In Cook he was a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, the Rescue Squad, and was an ambulance driver.  Jacob was a member of St. Mary's Church. He was a proud dad of his children's achievements in sports and academics.

Jake later married Darlene Olson McCue on January 30, 1988 and after retirement they moved to Port Charlotte, FL and spent summers at Wakemup Campground where he was host/caretaker for 15 years. After 7 years of Florida seasons, Jake and Darlene moved back north and made their home in Virginia, continuing to spend summers at the Campground. In 2004, he was stricken with numerous health problems  but he was still able to work at the Campground where he met and made friends with many people. He loved boating on Lake Vermilion with Dar and friends and showing the eagle nests and other beautiful features of the lake which he loved and knew so well.

Jake was a brilliant person, unassuming and generous, loved being able to help people in need. He was a true man of God and didn't show his feelings, but was always true to what he believed. He lived without complaint, being content to stay home as travel was too painful. 

Jake is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Darlene; his children: son Tim (Denise) Cayo and their children, Chase and Courtney of St. Michael MN;  daughter Michele (Rick) Davis and their boys, Alex and Jared of Duluth MN; daughter Jacqueline “Jackie” husband Tim Picek and their boys, Bennett and Hayden of Cook, MN. Also surviving Jake are, Teresa (Don Thompson) McCue of Westminster CO,  Kelly (Susan) McCue of Side Lake, Clay (Ann) McCue of Side Lake and Susan (John) Mankus of Orr, and their children who shared their love with Jake. His sisters that survive him are: Eileen (Paul) Orednick of  Chicago and Florida, Janet (Gene) Rawlyk of Bemidji, and Kathleen (Andy)Anderson of Midwest City OK; along with numerous special nieces, nephews and friends who are missing him.

Jacob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Erickson of Duluth.

Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 5th at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with a gathering of family and friends for one hour prior to the service. Pastor Bruce Dissell will be the officiant, with Gloria Anderson Hegg assisting. There will be a reception following at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cook. 

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Sylvia Nelson Beranek 93, died of natural causes on February 5, 2012 in Cicero. Illinois.  She was born on April 9, 1918 in the Cook area to August (1955) & Anna (1953) Nelson.  She grew up on Frazer Bay and worked for different families in Cook while attending school.  Her family later moved to Angora.  She graduated from Cook High School in 1936.  Sylvia married Jerry Beranek (who worked for the Haley family) on August 6, 1936.  She gave birth to Jane (1937) and James (1940) at the Cook Hospital.  The family  lived in the Cook area until 1941 when they moved to Chicago to gain employment.

Sylvia worked for Alden's Mail Order (Chicago) in the 1940's and 50's and later for Victor Gasket Company in Cicero, Illinois.  She enjoyed needlework, painting, sewing, country music, time with family, and especially her yearly visit to Angora to see her parents and siblings.

She is survived by daughter Jane Wilhelm of Excelsior, Minnesota; son Terry Beranek of Cicero, Illinois,  6 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by husband, Jerry (1983), son James (1995) and grandson, Dale (1996).  Also, siblings Signora Kossow, Alfred Nelson, Lillian Trygg, William Nelson, Astrid Johnson, Roy Nelson and Erling Nelson.

A Memorial Service will be held on June 8 at the Range Funeral Home in Virginia at 1:30 PM.

Sylvia wrote the first family history to be published on the cookmn web site, in 1999.  The Nelson Family

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Rodney Glenn LeMoine, 76, of Aurora, Memorial service for will be 11am Thursday, May 3, 2012 at United Methodist Church in Aurora with Pastor Barbara Hegfors officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery Columbarium. Memorials may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora.

Rodney died Thursday, April 26, 2012 in his home surrounded by family.

He was born December 9, 1935 in Cook, MN to Oscar and Elsie (Lindbeck) LeMoine. Rodney was a graduate of Cook High School and later served our country with the US Navy.

On September 13, 1958 he married Alice Anderson in Mt. Iron. Rodney worked for J&L Mining Company and retired from LTV Steels engineering department in 1998 with 40 years of service. He was a loyal, dependable worker.

Rodney enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, watching deer and feeding the birds and taking great care and pride in his remodeling projects. He was a caring man and always ready to help others, known as "Uncle Airplane." He was a family man, proud of his children and loved being a grandpa. He will truly be missed.

Survivors include his loving wife, Alice Marie; daughter, Jodi (Roger) Bergh of Duluth; son, James (Sheila) LeMoine of Virginia; son-in-law, Timothy Sieh of Duluth; grandchildren, Jessica LeMoine of Chisholm, Sarah (Mark) Softich of Ramsey, MN, Joni LeMoine of Proctor, Jonathon (Jenna Osterlund) Oltmanns of Duluth, Elizabeth (Michael) Henderson of Manhatten, KS, Bryan (Elissa Liberg) Sieh of Seattle, WA and Maureen Sieh of Duluth and Elizabeth and Rachel Bergh of Duluth; great grandchildren, Elsa Kay and Vera Lynn Softich and Micah David and Evelyn Rose Henderson; siblings, Erlene Waataja, Richard (Colleen) LeMoine, Zona (Adrian) Perkio, Karen (Kevin) Roche, Sandy (Karl) Norman; sisters-in-law, Darlene (Jerry) Richards and Patricia Lund; brother-in-law, Don Anderson; several nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Elsie; daughter, Lani Kay Sieh (2010); brothers, James and Clifford; sisters, Gloria Fischer and Shirley Sikkila.  

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James Roy Saranpaa, 88, Orr passed away on Tuesday April 24 at Chris Jensen Nursing Home in Duluth. He was born on May 22, 1923 in Waasa Township, Embarrass to Victor Jacob and Lydia Katherine (Palomaki) Saranpaa. He was united in marriage to Lillian Miriam Teinila from Waasa Township on June 29, 1946 in Virginia.

He grew up on the family farm, was graduated from Embarrass High School in 1941, and was a FFA poultry judging champion, advancing to state competition in St. Paul with his advisor Waino J. Kortesmaki. Following graduation, he worked for the Duluth & Iron Range Railroad out of Two Harbors, then went to work for Pete Rissanen as a management trainee at the Virginia Co-Op Society and was later promoted to manager of the Mountain Iron Co-op, where he worked for 18 years. He then became manager of the Forbes Co-Op for Toivo Penti and was also Postmaster there. He began working as Meat Department Manager for the Northern Farmers Co-Op Society in January 1962 under George Nakari and became General Manager in 1970, retiring in 1985.

While in Mountain Iron, he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and an active member of the Mountain Iron Sportsman Club. He served on many Co-Op boards including the Northern Farmers Co-Op Credit Union, an advisor to Midland Cooperatives, as a director of the Range Cooperatives and Range Funeral Home. He attended Management Training School at the Central Cooperative Wholesale in Superior, Wisconsin.

He enjoyed deer hunting, trapping and fishing, especially with his son fishing, for Lake Trout in Canada and the BWCA and made many annual trips with him. He also enjoyed harvesting and processing firewood and hauling gravel, building structures and going to the Falls and Virginia with his son. He was a very good neighbor to the local residents, keeping an eye on their properties when they were gone and offering help to them, especially plowing the roads for them in the winter and cutting nuisance trees to protect their buildings. There was never a dog he didn’t love and took in strays to give them a home when their owners passed away.

He is survived by his son James L. (Beverly) Saranpaa of Orr, daughter Carol Saranpaa of Duluth, brother Thomas (Lilly) Saranpaa of Virginia, sister-in-law Marion Saranpaa of Embarrass, brother-in-law Arnold Santi of Virginia and his grandpups Barney and Bonnie Sue, as well as nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents Victor in 1954 and Lydia in 1959, his brother Floyd in 1998, his wife L. Miriam in 2011 and a brother Richard in infancy.

Funeral arrangements by the Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia. Services on April 30, 2012 at 1 p.m.

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Marilyn A. Korkalo Jauhola, 54, of Cook, passed away unexpectedly on April 14, 2012, at Essentia Health – St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth.

She was born Marilyn Ann Koepke on July 18, 1957 in Virginia; the daughter of Gerald “Pete” and Janice (Anderson) Koepke. She grew up in Zim and graduated from Toivola-Meadowlands High School in 1975.   She completed nurse’s training in Duluth and earned her Licensed Practical Nurse credentials.   She went on to work for the Chris Jensen Nursing Home in Duluth.  She has been together with her life partner, Jeff Jauhola since 1989.  They moved to Cook in 1990, where they have since resided. Marilyn worked as an Licensed Practical Nurse for the Cook Clinic and Nursing Home for a number of years. She was a great cook and baker, and loved her flower and vegetable gardens.    The loves of her life were her grandchildren.  Her family fondly recalls that they “were her life and world” and she cherished the time spent with them.  

Marilyn is preceded in death by her mother, Janice Koepke (1993), grand daughter, Cassie Copeland (2006); special aunt and best friend, Diane Haupert (1985), and brother-in-law Donnie King (2006).

She is survived by her life partner of 22 years, Jeff Jauhola of Cook; her father, Gerald “Pete” Koepke of Zim; 1 son, Rex (Jill Custer) Korkalo of Duluth; 2 daughters, Heather (Andrew) Copeland of Eveleth and Abbey (Nick) Larson of Grand Rapids, MN; 1 brother, Michael (Jennifer) Koepke of St. Paul; 2 sisters, Katherine “Kathy” King  and Donna (David) Klemzak, both of Zim; 2 grandchildren, Josh and Brooke Copeland; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many other special relative and friends.  

Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday (April 20^th) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.   Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant.  Honorary bearers will be: Gerald “Pete” Koepke, Jeff Jauhola, Rex Korkalo, Michael Koepke, Joshua and Andrew Copeland and Nick Larson..

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Ida M. Fry, 88, Orr,  passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2012, at St. Michael’s Health Care Center in Virginia. 

She was born  Ida Marie Jyrkinen  at Myrtle Lake on October 20, 1923; to John and Mary (Luomala) Jyrkinen.  She grew up on the family farm and graduated from Orr High School.  She was united in marriage to Trenton “Bud” Fry  on February 19, 1944 in Cook.  They owned and operated the well known Northland Lodge on Pelican Lake, making numerous additions and upgrades.  She cooked thousands of meals for their dining room and guests. They developed lasting friendships with their many visitors throughout the years.  She was a longtime member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Orr.

Ida loved to cook and bake, was an accomplished seamstress, grew beautiful gardens, enjoyed the northwoods wildlife and birds, was an avid reader, and looked forward to her winter trips to Florida or California.  The last several years she has resided at St. Michael’s Health Care Center in Virginia. 

She is preceded in death by her husband of over 57 years, Trenton “Bud” on November 10, 2001; sisters, Vienna Carlson and Ailie Toivola; and brothers Tauno and Toivo Jyrkinen.

Ida is survived by a son, Randy (Lulu) Fry of Orr; a daughter Suzanne (Cordell Hull) Nelson of Bloomington, MN; a grandson, Jeff (Amy) Nelson of St. Paul; and Great Grandchildren- Sam, Delaney and Theo Nelson of St. Paul; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many other special relatives and friends.

Memorial services will be at 1:00 p.m.next Friday (April 27^th) at Calvary Lutheran Church in Orr.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant.  Interment will be in Leiding Cemetery of Orr.  Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Calvin Richard Bakk 62 was born on February 1, 1950 and died April 4, 2012 unexpectedly, from heart disease. Calvin was born in Oak Park, IL and died at his home in Ketchikan, Alaska. Calvin is the second of six children born to Doris (Forsline) and Arthur Bakk. Calvin is survived by his children Nicholas (Renee) and Hannah Bakk and his granddaughter, Chessaly Bakk. He is also survived by his brothers Dan, Ken, Jim, and Curt and his sister Carolyn. He was preceded in death by his father Arthur and his grandparents Hans and Mabel Forsline and Hannah and Jacob Bakk.

Calvin graduated from Oak Park-River Forest High School in 1969. Much of Calvin’s adventurous adult life was spent in Alaska. Many of his summers as a child were spent in Cook, Minnesota. Calvin had a successful construction business in Ketchikan. He was named the 2011 Alaska State Home Builders Association Member of the Year. He was well respected and loved by his faith community at the Alliance Church. He lived out his love of his fellow man with his prison ministry and other community involvements.

Memorials to continue his many ministries in the community may be made to the Alliance Church in Ketchikan at 400 Homestead Rd. Ketchikan, AK 99901. A memorial service is being planned to honor Calvin’s life in Ketchikan on Sunday, April 15  at the Alliance Church with Pastor Cade King officiating. His family will also be gathering in Cook, MN on Saturday, June 2 at the First Baptist Church to mourn his loss and remember him in love. Pastor Randy Swenson will officiate at a time to be determined.

Thanks to Kathy Forsline for sending Calvin's obituary and picture.

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Marjorie “Marge” A. Sabart, 78, Lake Vermilion- Cook passed away on April 11, 2012, at the Sanford Bemidji Medical Center.

She was born Marjorie Ann Kleffler on July 1, 1933  in Eveleth, the daughter of George and Myrtle (Hagstrom) Kleffler.   Marge grew up and lived in Virginia most of her life.  After High School she moved to Minneapolis where she was employed with Archer Daniels Midland.  She returned to Virginia and worked for J.C. Penny.   It was there that she met  her future husband Richard “Dale” Sabart in 1951, and they married on August 23, 1952 in Virginia. After marriage they continued their living in Virginia where they raised their family. Dale was the dedicated owner and operator of Range Paint for 55 years.  The firm is still family owned and operated. Marge also worked for North Western Bell in Virginia as a telephone operator for 11 years. They owned a cabin on Lake Vermilion since 1971, and in 1984 they moved there permanently.  Marge loved Lake Vermilion.  She was a  dedicated homemaker and  a wonderful cook.  Her family fondly recalls that she was known for her fantastic yellow rice.  She was a wonderful hostess to family and friends and was a diehard Viking and Twins fan.  Marge loved her Boston terrier bulldogs. Along with making quilts, she had talent for ceramics and made beautiful figurines. Marge will be greatly missed by all who new her.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

Marge is survived by her husband of almost 60 years Richard “Dale”; 3 sons; David  Sabart of Chisholm, Thomas (On) Sabart of Navarre, FL and Larry (Anne) Sabart of Britt; 2 daughters Kathleen “Kathy” (Richard) Presley of Florida and Linda (Kevin) Haney of Sioux Falls, S.D.; 9 grandchildren: David Sabart, Christopher Sabart, Brittany Sabart, Tedd Petrich, Troy Petrich, Mark Sabart, Katelyn Maki, Julie Williams and Michael Haney; and several great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, where visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Brenda Tibbetts, AiM will be the officiant.  Casket bearers will be Kevin Haney, David Sabart, Tom Sabart, Larry Sabart, Tedd Petrich and Troy Petrich. Burial will follow in the Cook Community Cemetery.   

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Edwin  E. Norton, 79, longtime resident of Ash Lake, passed away on Sunday, April 8, 2012, at St. Michael  Health Care Center in Virginia.

He was born to Josephine and Elmer E. Norton on June 6, 1932, in Roosevelt, MN.

Edwin honorably served  in the Navy from 1950 to 1954 and married Catherine Corrigan Clay in New Hampshire on August 22, 1952. They lived in Pensacola, Florida during his service to our country.

They then moved to Roosevelt, Minnesota until 1956, when they moved to Arbutus, MN when he received his job on the DWP Railroad. They moved to Ash Lake in 1963 where they made their home for the next 43 years.   Ed was a dedicated worker for the railroad for 42 years and was Assistant Roadmaster the past 8 years of his employment.   Edwin was an avid fisherman, trapper and blueberry picker.  He enjoyed his time out in nature.   He loved to be the barbeque chef at the family gatherings and liked visiting with family.  Ed was a lifetime member of the Orr American Legion Post #480 and helped with many projects to help the new legion hall to become a reality. 

He is preceded in death by his mother and father,  Josephine and Elmer; his step-father, Andrew Barstow; 1 daughter, Diane R. Wardas; and  2 sisters and brothers-in-law, Alvina (John) McKinnon and Mae Estella (Hilder) Weston.

He is survived by his wife of  60 years, Catherine; 2 sons, Edwin "Eddie" (Kay Shannon) Norton Jr  of Brooklyn Park, MN., William "Bill" (Char) Norton  of Int'l Falls;  1 daughter, Paulette (Lloyd) Scott of Orr; 3 brothers, Joseph Norton of Albertville, MN, LaVerne Norton of Mpls., and Richard (CeCe) Norton of Int'l Falls; 1 sister, Mary Ruth (Louie) Norquist of Albertville, MN; special family member Terry Dow of Ash Lake, MN; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

At Edwin's request, no formal funeral services will be held.  Family graveside services will be held at a later date in the cemetery at Roosevelt, MN.

Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  

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Raymond Arnold Newman, 91, Angora, passed away on Wednesday April 4, 2012 at the Cook Nursing Home.

He was born on January 19, 1921 in Duluth, the son of John and Ida (Maki) Newman.  His early childhood was spent in an orphanage, then at the age of 9, he went to stay on the Mattson farm in  Angora. He has lived in the Angora area for 80 years.  On June 28, 1946, he was united in marriage to  Vernice  “Peggy” Steele at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango.  The couple lived in Angora, where they raised their family and lived together for the next  60 years.  Ray has been making his residence at the Cook Nursing Home since 2006. 

He was a dedicated employee of U.S. Steel for 32 years, mostly as a truck driver at the Sherman and Twin Cities iron ore mines near Chisholm. Ray also logged for  many years.  He enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. Ray was known for his kind, big heart for animals, especially strays. In one instance, someone dropped off a box of 3 kittens by the road, which he took in.  He will be remembered as an easy going, gentle man.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at the Cook Nursing Home for the exceptional care given Ray during his stay there.

He is preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Nelson on January 1, 2010; and a sister, Ruth Armstrong.  

Ray is survived by his wife of  over 65 years, Vernice “Peggy”; a son, Gary (Julie) Newman of Angora; a sister, Rose (Don) Almquist of Plymouth, MN; 6 Grandchildren: Holly (Keith) Dragisich, Alyssa Newman, Clinton (Lisa) Nelson, Craig Nelson, Curtis Nelson and Corrie (Michelle) Nelson; 9 Great Grandchildren: Candace, Corey “C.J.”, Jeffrey, Tori, Sarah, Staci, Tara, Ashley and Tad; along with nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday (April 7^th) at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango.  The Rev. Joey “pj” Bailey will be the officiant.  The special music will be provided by Carol Newman.  A  reception in Ray’s honor will be held in the church social hall after the service.  Interment will follow in the Cook Community Cemetery.  Funeral arrangements  are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.   

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Wesley David Cheney, 68, Cook, passed away on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at St. Michael’s Health & Rehabilitation Center in Virginia.

He was born on December 20, 1943 the son of Fay and Irene (Heckendorn) Cheney, at Bagley, MN. Wes spent his boyhood in Cok, where he attended school. He married Judy Sampson, and though the marriage later ended, they had four wonderful children. Wes had lived in many areas of northern Minnesota. He had worked as a sawmill operator for Chase Lumber for many years, along with several others throughout the years. He had lived in Hood River, Oregon for a time, where he did detailed work on cars.   Wes enjoyed muzzle loading and was a member of the Black Powder Association.  He made jewelry, and had a talent for crafting items from antlers.  Wes played harmonica and guitar, enjoyed music, and liked jamming with family and friends.   He cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Irene and Fay Cheney. 1 sister Evelyn Pederson;1 brother, Vernard Cheney; and 1 grandson  Forest Dale Cheney.

Wesley is survived by 2 sons, David Cheney of Greenup, KY and Russell Cheney of Tappahannock, VA; 2 daughters, Kathy Cheney of Cook and Karen Cheney of Hibbing; 7 grandchildren: Christopher and Krystal Vines, Megan, Donald, Brandon, Angel and Crista Cheney; and 1 great-granddaughter Ariana Rose Vines, along with countless nieces, nephews and many friends.

Graveside services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 18^th, at the Hillside Cemetery of Angora.  Pastor Joey “pj” Bailey will officiate. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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John Earl Cribb, 88, husband of Fleetie Owens Cribb, passed away Sunday, April 1, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on May 12, 1923, in Georgetown, he was a son of the late James Earl Cribb and the late Minnie Lowrimore Cribb. Mr. Cribb served as a Carpenter 1st Class in the US Navy and was a Veteran of WWII. Following his discharge from the Navy, Mr. Cribb began a 20 year career in construction with Bill Thompson Construction Company. In 1971 he began working for the Georgetown School Board of Education and retired as the Building Supervisor. He was a member of Messiah Baptist Church and the American Legion Post 114. Mr. Cribb enjoyed the outdoors but his biggest passion was wood working. He was very well known for his amazing talent in restoring and repairing antique furniture.

Survivors include his wife of Georgetown; 2 daughters, Wanda C. Hoffmann of Mt. Pleasant and Sandy C. Van Ness of Georgetown; two grandchildren, Matthew R. Hoffmann of Mountain Iron, MN and Morgan M. Van Ness of Salt Lake City, UT; one great grandchild, Blake T. Hoffmann of St. Paul, MN; three sisters, Edna Hickson of Ft. Valley, GA, Hope Powell (W.A.) of Andrews and Esther Grier (Junior) of Hemingway; two brothers, Cecil Cribb (Glenda) of Georgetown and Marion Cribb (Sara) of Orangeburg; a sister in law, Carolene Cribb of Georgetown; and a number of very special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Lena Mae Grier; a brother, Clinton Cribb; three brothers in law, Erby Owens, Doc Grier and Marcus Hickson; and a sister in law, Phyllis Cribb.

Funeral Services will be held at 3 PM Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at Messiah Baptist Church with the Rev. Ricky West officiating. Entombment will follow in the Pennyroyal Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

The family will receive friends from 7-9 PM Tuesday at Graham Funeral Home.

Memorial may be made to Tidelands Community Hospice, 2591 N. Fraser St. Georgetown, SC 29440 or to Messiah Baptist Church, PO Box 957 Georgetown, SC 29442.

Graham Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. www.grahamfuneralhome.org 

My grandfather John Cribb passed away on Sunday.  I wonder if you could add his obituary into your website as my mother, Wanda Hoffmann has many friends still in Cook?   Many of my mothers friends have met my grandfather over the years.

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Oliver "Ollie" Olson, 93, passed away on March 27, 2012, in Melbourne, Fla. Ollie was born Oct. 29, 1918, in Superior.

His parents were Roger and Anna (Anderson) Olson. He graduated from Central High School in 1936. Ollie served his country in the Army during World War II from 1941 through 1945. He met the love of his life Aileen Sylvester in 1935 and they were married at Holy Assumption Church on Sept. 20, 1943. Ollie and Aileen celebrated 68 years of marriage on Sept. 20, 2011. He retired in 1979 from the Prudential Insurance Company. Ollie and Aileen were sunbirds in the Melbourne, Fla. area for over 33 years.

Oliver was preceded in death by his father Roger Olson, his mother Anna Olson Baker, stepfather Cleon Baker, and brothers Russell and Earl. Oliver is survived by his wife Aileen, his sons Roger (Sharon), David (Judy), Douglas (Carol), Paul, Jeff (Vicki) and daughter Cathy Gotsky (David). Grandchildren Kim Laible, Kris Berg, Scott Olson, Eric Olson, Kevin Olson, James Olson, Sandy Peterson, Cameron Olson, Rita Cubert, Erin Pink, Ross Olson, Adrea Olson, Natalie Olson, Adam Olson, Lee Olson, Alex Olson, Jason Gotsky and Ian Gotsky. Oliver and Aileen have 25 great-grandchildren.

 The celebration of Ollie's life will be April 10, at Holy Assumption Church, located at 5601 Tower Avenue in South Superior. A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and last until the 11 a.m. Mass. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. Internment of the ashes will be at Calvary Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers or memorials, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society, 130 W. Superior St., LL2 Suite 200, Duluth, MN 55802.

Thanks to Dan Anderson of Hibbing, the son Gordon of Cook, for sending the above obituary

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Viola “Vi” Villebrun, 92, the oldest resident of Nett Lake, passed away at the Cook Nursing Home on Saturday, March 31, 2012.

She was born in Nett Lake on May 29, 1919, the daughter of Edward and Anna Porter.  She attended Indian boarding school in Toma, Wisconsin, after which she returned to Nett Lake.  Vi  married Frank “Bronc” Villebrun in 1936, they made their home and raised their family in Nett Lake. She retired as a social worker for St. Louis County, employed for many years based in Nett  Lake, where she helped many people. She also went to carpentry school, and not only learned to build structures but also personal family items, such as bassinettes for babies.   Her family fondly recalls her being a great cook, making the best cinnamon rolls.  She loved to travel, enjoyed bingo and charitable gambling.  Vi was a avid reader, liked working crossword puzzles and had a exceptional memory, especially the history of the early years.   She had made her residence at the Cook Nursing Home the past year and a half.  She was known and loved by all, and will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Frank “Bronc” Villebrun in 1986; 2 daughters, Ramona  Villebrun in 2009 and Patricia Villebrun in 2011; numerous other siblings also precede her in death.

Vi is survived by 1 son, Frank (Elaine) Villebrun of Indian Point, MN; 3 daughters, Olive Connor of Cook, Eileen (Kenny) Barney of Indian Point, MN and Jacquelyn K. Villebrun of Nett Lake; 1 sister, Josephine Chavers of  Nett  Lake; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and 4 great-geat-great grandchildren; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm Thursday, (April 5^th) at the Nett Lake School Gymnasium.  Visitation will begin after 5:00 p.m. Wednesday at the school.  Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant. Jackie F. Villebrun will sing, accompanied by Julie Whiteman.   The casket bearers will be: Lawrence “TeJon” Connor, Frank Villebrun Jr., Rodney Villebrun, Henry Villebrun, Nicholas “Nick” Villebrun and Frances “Tuna” Connor.  The honorary bearers will be: Darrell “Pete” Connor, Clayton Villebrun, Mike Villebrun, Ken Villebrun, Donny Villebrun, Clarence Roy Jr., Aren Hofmaster, Scott Rutar, Javan Villebrun,Bradley Day Jr., Andrew Day, Cody Anderson and Brent Villebrun.   Interment will be in the Bois Forte Cemetery.  Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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William J. “Bill” Benko, 68, Cook, passed away on Friday, March 30, 2012 at St Raphael ‘s Health & Rehabilitation Center in Eveleth.

William J.  Benko was born January 30, 1944 in Cloquet the son of John and Josephine (Udovich) Benko.  He grew up and lived in several towns including Silverdale, Gheen & Cook and graduated from the Orr High School.  After graduation he worked for U.S. Steel’s Minntac Mine in Mt Iron as a truck driver retiring after 30 years of dedicated service.

He was a member the First Baptist Church of Cook. Earlier he had been an avid CB (Citizen’s Band) operator, his “handle” was the “Roadrunner”. In his younger years he enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, polka music and dancing.  Bill owned a mini motor home and traveled with friends.  He was a follower of the Duluth Accordionaires for many years with his friends, Manley Martinson and Alen Holmer. In his later years he would enjoy listing to the music of Bill Gaither.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, John Benko, on March 16, 1992 and his mother Josephine Benko,  on June 9, 1995.

He is survived by his sister Marian (Jerrold) Carlson of Aitkin; 2 aunts, Dorothy Udovich of Gheen and Rosie Godec Bertnick of Chisholm; one uncle, Wilburt “Berty” Benko of Cloquet; 3 nephews, Gregory, Arlee and Leonard Carlson, along with other special relatives and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday (April 9, 2012) at the First Baptist Church in Cook, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service.  Pastor Randy Swenson will be the officiant. Honorary bearers will be Alan Holmer, Eddie Starich, Greg Carlson, Arlee Carlson and Lenny Carlson. Burial will follow in the Cook Community Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Shirley R. Czernewski, 76, Cook, passed away on Thursday, March 29, 2012, at the Golden Horizons Assisted Living Center in Tower.

She was born Shirley Rosemary Catterwell on December 2, 1935, in Woodbridge, England, where she grew up.  She met  Raymond F. Czernewski, while he was serving with the Air Police of  U.S. Air Force stationed in England during the Korean Conflict.   They married in Woodbridge on July 22, 1953.  After his military service, they moved to Angora, where they made their home and raised their family.  Ray worked for the J&L Mines for 25 years, then retired due to health reasons. Shirley was a devoted caretaker for Ray during his 15 years of disability. She was affiliated with the Church of England, and held it dear in her heart.  She was a dedicated homemaker, her family fondly recalls she had everything in her home always organized and orderly. She was an avid reader, especially of historical novels.  She loved her grandchildren, and really enjoyed being a grandmother.  Earlier she had been a Den mother in scouting.  Shirley had a talent for knitting, making numerous articles for family.  She was a committed volunteer at the Adult Day Care Center, enjoyed painting and decorating, and loved her chocolates.

She will be dearly missed by family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents,  Frederick and Rose Cattterwell; her husband, Raymond on April 15, 1995; and a grandson, Harrison McConnell.

Shirley is survived by 2 sons, Gary Czernewski of Cook and Michael (Karen Sotherby) of Eveleth; 3 daughters, Debbie (Tom) Thompson of  Brighton, CO., Cindy (Joe) Zika of Cook and Jacqulyn (Scott) McCracken of Carmel, IN; 3 brothers, Richard (Sheila) Catterwell of Ispwich, England, Brian (Maureen) Catterwell  and Mike Catterwell, both of Woodbridge, England; 1 sister, Jackie Catterwell of Woodbridge, England; 10 Grandchildren: Ryan, Josh, Heidi, Simon, Andy, Kacee, Royce, Jessica, Crystal and Beth; 8 Great Grandchildren: Ashlynn, Andrew, Haylee, Xavier, Presley, Paisley, Penley and Lucy, along with numerous niece, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, (April 14^th) at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alango. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of service.  The Rev. Joey “pj” Bailey will officiate.  The casket bearers will be: Gary Czernewski, Mike Czernewski, Joe Zika, Andy Hunter, Simon Zika, Josh Zika and Royce McConnell.  Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Virginia.

Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  

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Patricia “Pat” Odella passed away on February 26, 2012.

Memorial services for Pat Odella, 71, longtime resident of Gheen, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday (April 13^th) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Rev. Joey “pj” Bailey will be the officiant.  A reception in Pat’s honor will be held at the Cook VFW after the service at the funeral home.   Burial will be in the Willow Valley Cemetery.   She passed away on Feb. 26, 2012. (see the full obituary below.)

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Charles Robert “Bob” Crego, 83, Ash Lake, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 22, 2012, at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth.

He was born on June 21, 1928 at Kinmount, the son of Lyle and Mary (Simone) Crego.

He attended school in Orr. He grew up, lived and worked in the Ash Lake-Orr area nearly all of his life.  While serving in the Army during the Korean Conflict, he met and married Elisabeth Glassl in Germany.  After his honorable discharge, they returned to Ash Lake.  Charlie was a dedicated employee for over 40 years for the Duluth-Winnipeg-Pacific Railway, and  was a railroad section- hand foreman in Ash Lake, and  a bridge tender at the border in International Falls.  He and Elisabeth were longtime members of  Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orr, and was involved in the building of the church.

He was a member of the Orr American Legion Post #480. Charles loved hunting, fishing and the outdoors.  He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who will be dearly missed.

He is survived by  his wife of nearly 63 years, Elisabeth; 3 sons, Peter (Mary) Crego of Maple Grove, MN, Chuck (Diane) Crego of Hibbing and Brent (Evelyn) Crego of Miami, FL.; 2 daughters, Lori (Robert) Hagberg of Hibbing and Julie Crego of Hibbing; 1 brother, Jim (Carol) Crego of Big Lake, MN; 9 Grandchildren: Elisabeth, Alan and David Hagberg, Travis and Jennifer Crego, Christi (Dewey) Crego Ritter, Adam, Cassie and Chelsea Crego; in addition to numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:30 P.M. Sunday (March 25^th) at  Holy Cross Catholic Church in Orr.  Rev. Father Jose Peringarpillil, MCBS will be the celebrant.   Special music will be provided by Mary Beth Reller.

The casket bearers will be: Peter Crego, Chuck Crego, Brent Crego, Alan and David Hagberg and Travis Crego.   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.  Interment will be in the Leiding Cemetery of Orr.  Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.   

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Terry Kasie, 61, of Duluth, died Friday, Feb. 24, 2012, in Duluth.

Terry was born in Winton, Minn. He worked in construction as a millwright, was an electronic technician and served in the U.S. Navy.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Pearl; parents Louis and Anna Mae of Hermantown; two sons, Christopher (Jennifer) and Clifford (Amanda), both of Duluth; and three granddaughters, Maria, Samantha and Amanda, all of Duluth.

Terry was deeply adored by his wife and family. He was a loving husband, son, father and grandfather. He was dearly loved by countless friends and all who knew him, and he will be sorely missed.

VISITATION: 1 p.m. until the 2 p.m. service Tuesday, Feb. 28 in Cremation Society of Minnesota.

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Kenneth Anderson 73, formerly of Virginia, died on March 5, 2012, at Mission Health Care in Bellvue, Washington.

Kenneth is survived by one brother, David John Anderson; two sisters, Geraldine (Eero) Ruuska of Angora and Martha E. (James) Grossman. Nephew, Erick (Pam) Ruuska and niece, Robin (George) Pliml of Cook. His sister Martha was a 1972 graduate of the Cook High School.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; John H. 71,1979 & Hazel 84,1998 (Rahala) Anderson; sisters; Rose Mary Cary and Katherine Ann Bell.  

Bob was a 1958 graduate of the Cook High School. His brother Doug graduated in 1960.

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Patricia “Patty” G. Odella, 71, Gheen, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 26, 2012.  

She was born Patricia Gail Himango on March 1, 1940, at Biwabik, the daughter of John and Gladys (Goodman) Himango.  She grew up and lived in several states, including Butte, Montana where her father worked in the mines and Orofino, Idaho, where he was  a police officer.  She was united in marriage to Gilbert Odella on January 30, 1960, in Biwabik. Patty completed her License Practical Nurse’s training at the former St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Duluth, and  was employed at the Cook Hospital and Clinic, mostly working with Dr. Bartholdt at the time.  She lived in Butte, Montana, and later returned to the area.  She and Gilbert took over the longtime family owned bar-restaurant business in Gheen, and ran the well known “Patty’s Lost Week-Inn” for a number of years. 

Patty is survived by her husband of  52 years, Gilbert; 2 sons, Mike (Rebecca) Odella of Carlton and John (Rebecca) Odella of Wyoming, MN; a daughter, Kelly Odella of Gheen; a sister Janice Hoffman of Butte, MT; 8 Grandchildren: Matt (Jennifer) Wardas, John Wardas and Daniel Soger, all of Alaska, Emily Soger of Mt. Iron, Joshua (Tiffany) Odella, Jeremy Odella of Carlton, MN, Kelsey and Karley Odella of Wyoming, MN;  6 Great Grandchildren: Ian Wardas, Matt Macentire, Jonathon, Trapper and Charlotte Wardas, all of Alaska; Cameron Laroque of Mt. Iron; along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Willow Valley Township Cemetery. Honorary bearers are Carol Rinne and John Bergman.  Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home, Cook.

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Phyllis “Penny” (Nelson) Heinzer, 75, of Marshalltown, passed away Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012 at the Sunny Hill Care Center in Tama, Iowa.

Penny E. Nelson was born Jan. 26, 1937 in Eveleth, Minn.; she was the daughter of Arthur Armas and Helia Esther (Autio) Nelson. She attended and graduated school in Orr, Minn. She was united in marriage to Dale Heinzer on Aug. 13, 1963. Penny had lived in Cohasset, Minn. until she moved 12 years ago to Marshalltown, Iowa. She will always be remembered for her cookies, her wonderful baking, and taking care of her family. She loved being a mother and grandmother.

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and daughter-in-law Linda Heinzer.

She is survived by her children, Arthur Heinzer of Des Moines, Iowa, Randy Heinzer of Circle Pines, Minn., Joyce (Rick) Clarin of Mounds View, Minn., and Robin Heinzer of Marshalltown, Iowa; her grandchildren, Harley, Dale, Nick, and Diane; her great-grandson to be; her siblings, Russell & Clara, Eleanor, Betty (Charles) Stenlund, Rosie, Douglas, Duane; and her cat, Bubba.

Visitation with the family will be held from 1 p.m. until the Memorial Service at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at the Rowe Funeral Home in Grand Rapids, Minn. Rev. Paul Haddix will officiate. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Arrangements by Rowe Funeral Home and Crematory, Grand Rapids.

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Esther L. Salas, 72, of Sturgeon Township, passed away on Monday, February 20, 2012, at the Virginia Convalescent Center.

She was born Esther Louise Juntunen on April 30, 1939, to Matt and Impi (Neuttila) Juntunen.  She grew up in Alango Township, where she attended school.  Esther was married to Charlie Heinonen for nearly fifteen years, and together they had six children.

She had lived in Minneapolis, where she worked for American Linen for 15 years, then moved to Wisconsin.  Esther moved back to Angora 20 years ago, and has resided with her son Mike and family the past 5 years.   Earlier she liked playing bingo and going to the casinos.  Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.   She had great patience and always made time for their joy and needs.

Esther is survived by 3 sons,  Gary (Paula) Heinonen of Crosby, MN,  Michael (Lorrie) Heinonen of Sturgeon Township and Duane (Sandy) Heinonen of Opelousas, LA; 2 daughters, Arlene (Scott) Lamm of Alexandria, MN and Amy (Gordy) Raati of Orr; 2 brothers, William Juntunen of Mpls. and Ray Juntunen of Buhl; 1 sister, Sarah (Gene) Noel of Eunice, LA; 12 Grandchildren, 13 Great Grandchildren, 5 Great Great Grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by a daughter, Cheryl Heinonen;  her former longtime friend,  Michael “Bradum” Gordon;  her former husband, Charles “Charlie” Heinonen; 7 brothers: Edwin, Wallace, Arnie, Joseph, Arnold, David, and a brother in infancy; 4 sisters: Lillian Kennedy, Helmi Iverson, Irene Juntunen, and a sister in infancy.

Memorial services were held at 11:00 AM Saturday (Feb. 25^th) at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, where a gathering of family and friends was held one hour prior to the hour of service.  Rev. Arthur Dale was the officiant.  A reception in Esther’s honor was held at the Cook VFW.   Spring interment will be in the Alango Township Cemetery.

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Leonard Lehman, age 92, of Northglenn, Colorado passed away February 9, 2012, at Exempla Lutheran Collier Center Hospice, in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Leonard, and his twin Lyno, were born in Greaney, MN on September 25, 1919, to Oscar and Tillie (Kaiser) Lehman. He married Madeline Eddy on June 27, 1942 in Parkville, Minnesota. He drove truck for St. Louis County when he was twelve years old. He was a heavy equipment operator and liked operating the equipment more than he did working on them. He was a very skilled operator and was requested to do most finishing jobs. He also worked construction and was a mechanic and diesel mechanic all his life, putting in his last engine six months ago. They moved to Colorado in 1972 where he worked as a heavy equipment mechanic. He also taught at a Diesel Mechanics School in Denver. But what he enjoyed most was working on his 1940 Chevy.

Leonard is survived by Madeline, his loving wife of 69 years; one son LeRoy (Sylvia) of Hibbing; two daughters, Beverly of Westminster, CO, and Yvonne of Northglenn, CO; twelve grandchildren, Archie (Ginny) McWilliams of Ammon, ID; John (LaRee) McWilliams of Westminster, CO; David (Heather) McWilliams Kremmling, CO; Greg (Monica) Foerster of San Diego, CA; , Charlene (Brian) Smet of Bellingham, WA; Jeff (Jane) Foerster of Portland, OR; Cheri Peet (Kurt Grutzmacher) of Elk River, MN; Keith Lehman (Vivian Forst) of Virginia, MN; Michelle (Martin) Cunningham of Princeton, MN; Chris Dahl (Corinna) of Seattle, WA; Eric Dahl (Ann Marie) of Onalaska, WI; Jewel Lehman (Jeff Cavazos) of Northglenn, CO; twenty-five great grandchildren; and two great-great grandsons; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, 3 sisters, and his daughter and son-in-law Lynnette (1943-2005) and Archie McWilliams (1938-2011).

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, February 24, 2012, at St. Stephens Lutheran Church, 10828 Huron St., Northglenn, CO 80234 

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Robert Strong Jr., (Magee-Macoons) 77, of Nett Lake, passed away Monday, Feb. 13, 2012 in the Cook Nursing Home. He was born in Nett Lake on March 5, 1934 to Robert Jenery Strong Sr. and Annie (Goodsky) Strong. He was a lifelong Nett Lake resident. Robert had been an employee of Diamond Match Company for many years. He enjoyed making dream catchers and had made hundreds of them. He was a former Spiritual Advisor and Medicine Man and was a Host Drummer and Drum Keeper for the Bois Forte Band. Robert taught native language at several community colleges and had given talks about native ways. He was preceded in death by his wife,  Mary Woodenfrog Strong; son, Bruce Smith; and siblings, Russell Strong, Wesley Strong, Nora Berlien, Izola Shouts, Ruth Unger, Thelma Dziuk and Maureen Daly. He is survived by sisters, Hazel Strong of Cloquet, Dorothy Strong of Nett Lake, Betty Amitrano of Ely, Loretta (Axel) Holmes of Nett Lake, June Osborne of Ely and Edith Bouges of Minneapolis; grandchildren, Amanda Smith, Mary Smith, Jessica Smith and Branden (Arlana) Smith; and 54 nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will begin at 4 PM Wednesday, Feb. 15, in the Nett Lake Community Center, where Traditional Tribal rites will be at 10 AM Thursday, Feb. 16. The spiritual advisor will be Gilbert Smith and the assistant spiritual advisor will be Gene Goodsky. Burial will be in Woodenfrog’s Cemetery, Nett Lake. Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.  

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Dorothy L. Nordin, 92, of Cook, Minnesota, and former longtime resident of Bayfield, WI left this earthly land to the land of joy-Heaven, on Monday, January 30, 2012, at Cook Nursing Home.

Dorothy was born in Otisville, Michigan on February 5, 1919, the daughter of Arthur and Clara (Green) Moore. After High school graduation she went on to nursing school in Flint, Michigan. While in nurse’s training she met a patient by the name of Wallace Nordin and they later married on October 21, 1943 in Duluth, MN.

They settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, while Wallace went to school for his Master Plumbing license. They then moved to Bayfield, WI where they took over his father‘s business- Nordin Plumbing and Heating. After retirement they rented out a beautiful room over looking Lake Superior in their home, they called it Lakeside Lodging. They met many wonderful people who became longtime wonderful friends. Dorothy loved being a wife, mother, and was wonderful to her children and dearly loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In 2003 they moved to Cook, MN to be near their daughter and family. She was a faithful member of the Faith Baptist church in Bayfield.  Her real joy was leading bible studies in her home.

She is preceded in death by her dear husband of 63 years, Wallace on January 19, 2007; 5 sisters; Retta, Lela, Vera, Joyce, and Zelle Belle, and 2 brothers; Max and Duane.

She is survived by 1 son John (Ellen) Nordin of Rogers City, MI; 1 daughter Donna (Dennis) Carlson of Cook, MN;; 4 grandchildren: Heather Carlson of Coon Rapids, MN, Kory (Annie) Carlson of Columbia Heights, MN, Laura (Jonathan) Fazekas of Burlington, Kentucky, and Amy (Michael) Cernucan of Mason, Ohio; 7 great-grandchildren: Sophie, Micah, Joshua, Jude and Asher Fazakas, and Alena and Margaret Ann Cernucan; 2 sisters-in-law: Muriel “Mickey” Nourse of Brooklyn Park, MN, and Norene Moore Woods of Clio, MI; 4 nieces: Dawn Haughney of Grand Blanc, MI, Jane Hammond of Phoenix, AZ, Duana Moore of Clio, MI, and Judy Cook of Clio, MI; and 1 nephew Jerry Fenner of Clio, MI.

Funeral services will be held at  11:00 AM. Friday, March 9, 2012, at  the Faith Baptist Church in Bayfield, Wisconsin, with visitation one hour prior to the funeral.  Rev. Dale Phelps will be the officiant.  Interment will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Bayfield.  Funeral arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. 

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Brian was born on April 12, 1959 to Walter Joseph and Judith Ann (Gibisch) McGuire in Chicago, Illinois. He was a lover of fishing, hunting, baseball, wrestling, the Chicago Cubs, the great outdoors and most of all, his family and his church. Brian and is family moved to Fergus Falls when he was a sophomore in High School. He was a graduate of Fergus Falls High School, class of 1977. He attended Fergus Falls Junior College, and then earned a degree in Wildlife Management from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point in 1980. He worked with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for several years. Brian married Bonnie Lynn Vollbrecht on August 28, 1982. They would have celebrated 30 years of marriage this August. Brian and Bonnie felt the call to ministry when they were first married and they both attended Shiloh Bible Training Institute in Hamilton, Montana in 1982-83. After leaving Montana, they returned to Jamestown, ND, and Brian continued to work summers with the USFWS. Their first child, Benjamin Paul was born September 20, 1983 in Jamestown, ND. They lived in Jamestown, Kensal, and Spiritwood, ND during his seasonal work with the USFWS. Continuing to feel the call of God on their lives, Brian attended Trinity Bible College in Ellendale, ND in 1984-1986. He earned another bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Studies in 1986. Their second child Amie Catherine was born between their 2 years at Trinity on May 21, 1985. After graduating Trinity, Brian became the Assistant (Youth) Pastor at Maranatha Assembly of God in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Their third child Jedidiah Jon was born on May 9, 1988 in new Richmond. Brian’s second pastorate was as the Assistant Pastor at First Assembly in Waupaca, Wisconsin from 1988 to 1991. Their fourth child, Ian Christopher, was born in Waupaca on August 17, 1990. Pastor Brian became the Senior Pastor at Floodwood Assembly of God in late 1991. They remained in Floodwood for 7 years. Their fifth child, Daniel Joseph was born on November 1, 1993 in Grand Rapids, MN. Brian’s final pastorate was at Grand Rapids Assembly of God in Grand Rapids, MN, where he has pastored for the past 13 years. Their sixth child, Brianna Grace was born on June 23, 2001 in Grand Rapids, MN.

Pastor Brian is preceded in death by his father, Rev. Walter Joseph McGuire. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his mother, Judy McGuire of Fergus Falls, MN; his 6 children, Ben (Jessica) of Celebration, FL; Amie of Grand Rapids, MN; Jed of St. Charles, IA; Ian, Daniel, and Brianna of Grand Rapids, MN; one sister, Mary (Steve) Bangs of Loveland, CO; one brother, Matthew (Tasha) McGuire of Fergus Falls, MN; and 13 nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 1, 2012 from 5:00 until 8:00 PM at the Grand Rapids Assembly of God Church and will continue on Thursday, February 2, 2012 from 10:00 AM until the 11:00 AM Funeral Service also at the church. Rev. Clarence St. John will officiate.

Pastor Brian McGuire was an Uncle to Pastor Jared Bangs of Cook. Jared is the Associate Pastor of Youth and Young Families for the First Baptist Church of Cook.  

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Eldred Harold Burtness, 95, lifelong resident of Cook passed away on Jan. 19, 2012 at Southview Acres Health Care Center in West St. Paul.

Eldred was born to Peter and Anna (Swenson) Burtness on Dec. 2, 1916 in their Field Township home.  Eldred graduated from Cook High School in 1935 and married Julia Ruth Anthony on June 21, 1941.  Together they raised four children in the same area in which they both grew up and on land that was homesteaded by his father, uncles and aunts.  Eldred worked 32 years for the St. Louis County Highway Department retiring in 1978 in order to help Julia in her struggle with multiple sclerosis.

Eldred enjoyed hunting and fishing as he felt comfortable outdoors in northern Minnesota.   He loved visiting with people, especially with everyone at the Montana Café.  He was a long-time member of the Trinity Lutheran Church.   His fondest pastime was talking with friends and relatives.

Eldred was preceded in death by his wife, Julia, on Jan.24, 2002; brother, Howard William Burtness (Wethersfield, CT); and great-granddaughter Ella Bea McKenzie (daughter of Corey and Mandy).

He is survived by two sisters Marianne Swanson  of Braham, MN and Betty Rieder of Delano, MN; his children Ron of Hibbing; Julie (David) Cosmini of Manchester, CT; Jeanne (Peter) Luzaich of Marshfield, MO;  and Kathy (Neil) McKenzie of Hastings, MN; nine grandchildren, Jeremy Luzaich, Jennifer (Todd) Cosmini Gibson, Joni (Ted) Luzaich Mashburn, Ryan (Lora) Cosmini, Corey (Mandy) McKenzie, Douglas (Tanya) Cosmini, Brigette (Adam) McKenzie Pettit, Eric (Maggy) Cosmini, and Erica McKenzie; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.  A special thanks to Larry and Londa Baumgartner and to his niece Carol Kleven who, with love and concern, looked out for Eldred in his later years.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm Saturday (January 28^th) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cook, where visitation will be from 11:30 am until the hour of service.  Pastor Janeva Stromberg will be the officiant. Eldred will be buried in the Cook Community Cemetery in the Spring.

Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Manley “Bud” Martinson, 84, Cook, passed away at the Cook Nursing Home on Saturday, (January 14, 2012.)

He was born on April 12, 1927, at Bear River, to Martin and Anna (Hammer) Martinson.

He grew up in Cook, where he was a lifelong resident.  His parents operated a restaurant and gas station in Cook, known as Martinson’s Service, where Bud earlier worked.   He served his country stateside in the Army. He did construction work with his father, and helped build several Cook icon buildings, including the Homestead Mills.  He  was the longtime  press operator for the Cook News Herald, and started with  Wayne Evans, an earlier publisher.  He also wrote columns and guest  articles about the history of the Cook area, which many people found enlightening.  He will be remembered for his passion for the Duluth Accordionaires,  which was a group of dedicated young accordion players who played for entertainment and competition throughout  the area and the United States.  He was proud of them, followed their individual and collective accomplishments, and often  affectionately referred to them as “my kids.” He was the unofficial  mayor and ambassador to Cook, always promoting the goodness of the town, and earlier was selected as Grand Marshall during Timber Days.  He  had a soft heart for the children to the end, and even while in the nursing home he handed out stuffed animals to his young visitors.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by four sisters, Mildred Dahlin, Evelyn Hovland, Tillian Bystrom and Bernice Gustafson.

Bud is survived by one brother, William Martinson of Duluth; along with numerous nieces and nephews.  

Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, (Jan. 20^th) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant.  Spring interment will be in the Cook Community Cemetery

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Norman J. Cote, 75, of Pelican Lake-Orr, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, January 12, 2012.

He was born on February 25, 1936, in Epping, New Hampshire, where he grew up.  He established his good work ethic in his youth when he worked in a shoe factory with his father, along with having a paper route.  He proudly served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was honorably discharged in 1956, after 3 years of military service. He married Dorothy Trudel on June 12, 1965, at Sudbury, Massachusetts. 

Norman worked at the General Motors Plant in Framingham, Massachusetts, where he was an inspector in the paint shop, retiring after 28 years of committed service.  He was a devoted Boy Scout Leader for many years, and took numerous camping trips with his scouts, teaching them the essentials of scouting.  He was proud to see both his sons earn their Eagle Scout Awards.

After his retirement, he and Dottie moved to Greaney, where he lived his dream of having a hobby farm. Between the chickens, ducks, pigs along with gardening and cutting firewood, Norm “was in his glory”.  He was a dedicated member of the Orr American Legions, where he served  in various capacities, some of which were: Commander,  Financial Secretary, Honor Guard, and  longtime membership chairman.  He belonged to the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757 and to Calvary Lutheran Church of Orr, where he had served on the council. He loved the outdoors and was a lifelong hunter.  He was also avid fisherman, liked snowmobiling, 4-wheeling and cutting firewood. He and Dottie also liked to travel.  Norm was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and was well known for his wit, humor and gentleness.  

Norman is survived by his loving wife of  46 years, Dorothy “Dottie”; his children, John Cote of Pelican Lake-Orr, Dennis (Ericka) Cote of Orr and Bruce (Carol) Cote of Dunellen, NJ.; 4 brothers, Lionel (Irene) Cote of Epping, MH, Phillip (June) Cote of Twin Mts, NH, Gerard Cote of  Epping, NH, and Robert (Joellen) of Dunnellon, FL; 3 sisters, Rose (Robert) Schlottman of  Manchester, NH, Pauline Nichols of Stratham, and Sister Bernadette Cote of Hudson, NH; 3 Grandchildren: Brooke, Ethan and Megan, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Norman is preceded in death by his parents William and Regina Cote; one brother, Roger Cote; a brother-in-law, Edmund Nichols; and two dear nephews, John and Richard Nichols.

Memorial services will 2:00 p.m. Thursday (Jan. 19^th) at Calvary Lutheran Church in Orr.  Rev. Arthur Dale will be the officiant. Military honors will be accorded by the combined honor guards of the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757 and the Orr American Legion Post #480. A reception in Norman’s honor will follow at the Orr American Legion Hall.

Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.  

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Hilbert "Ray" Kelm 85, passed away on January 9,2012 at Superior, Wisconsin.

He was born on October 19, 1936 at Charles City, Iowa. He served in the Navy during WWII. He was proud to have served his country.  He donated service items to the Bong Heritage Center in Superior.

Ray & Helen had lived in Linden Grove. He first worked at the Johnson's One Stop Marine in Cook. Later he became head of the City of Cook Maintenance. He last served as the Chief of Police for the City of Cook.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; Hilbert & Lanabelle Kelm; brother Virgil his sister Pauline.

Ray is survived by his wife Helen, children Sandra Reid, Lorin Kelm and Robin (Andrew) McConnell. Also special nephews; Steve & Linda Kelm and Mark & Sandy Kelm.

A memorial service will be held at 10a.m. Saturday, January 14 2012 at the Cremation Society of Minnesota. 4100 Grand Avenue, Duluth, Minnesota. Visitation one hour before the service. 

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Margaret “Marge” Prepodnik, 84, of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly of Greaney, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 10, 2012.  Funeral arrangements are pending with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

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Rev. Dennis A. Sundeen, 76, of Cook, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 8, 2012. He fought a courageous battle with cancer and passed away at the Solvay Hospice House in Duluth, surrounded by family. 

Dennis was born in Silverdale on February 13, 1935, to Carl and Lucile (Eddy) Sundeen. The family moved to Cook in 1946.  Dennis graduated from Embarrass High School in 1953.  He served in the Evangelism Corps and graduated from Bethel College and Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. 

He married Patricia Arvola on August 15, 1959 at the First Baptist Church in Cook. Together they raised four children and served the Lord in ministry for 45 years, retiring in 2006.  Dennis was a pastor of churches in Marvin, Summit and Milbank, South Dakota; Ogema and Black River Falls, Wisconsin; Cambridge, Nebraska; and Opstead and Cook, Minnesota.

Dennis enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, sports and traveling with his family.   He had a winning smile, a great sense of humor and was a wonderful listener.  It was evident to all that he loved his Lord and God with all of his heart, soul and mind.  He loved his family.  He loved people and had a heart of compassion for all.

Dennis is survived by Pat, his loving wife of 52 years; one son, Kelvin (Denise Christensen) of Eagan, MN; three daughters, Cheryle (David) Zillmer of Fowlerville, MI; Debby (Scott)Houts of Omro, WI; Kim (Kareem Aal) Sundeen of  Minneapolis, MN; seven grandchildren, Kristina (Andy) King of Herndon, VA.; Keri (Jermaine) McGruder of Indianapolis, IN.; Danny Zillmer of Indianapolis, IN; Aubrey Houts of Ocoee, FL; Ashley Houts of Milwaukee, WI; Emray and Mina Sundeen of Minneapolis, MN;  three great grandchildren, Elina and Eva King and Jasmyn McGruder; three brothers, Eugene (Barb) Sundeen of Spokane, WA; Eddy (Jackie) Sundeen of Fairfax, VA; Carl (Helen) Sundeen of Perham, MN;  three sisters, Lorraine (Oscar 2008) Carlson of Cook, MN;  Faith (Irving 2011) Brodeen of Cook, MN; Hope (George) Blomberg of Ogema, WI; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl in 1977 and Lucile in 2006, and one sister, Winifred Egerdahl in 1997.

The family expresses their appreciation to the doctors, nurses and support staff for their love and excellent care Dennis received at the Cook Hospital and at Solvay Hospice House in Duluth. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday (Jan. 12^th) at the First Baptist Church in Cook, with Pastor Randy Swenson  officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Special music will be provided by Todd Olson, Gail Walkowiak, Scott Houts and Pam Ruuska.  The casket bearers will be grandchildren: Kristina King, Dan Zillmer, Ashley Houts, Keri McGruder, Aubrey Houts, and  Emray Sundeen.  The honorary bearers will be Willard Pearson and Harry Enzmann.   Spring interment will be in the Cook Community Cemetery.  Funeral arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home in Co

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Memorial services for Katherine “Katie”( Vukelich) Zick, 94, Duluth formerly of Orr will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, July 28, 2012, at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. A. gathering of Family and friends will be held one hour prior to the service. Rev. Wallace S. Zick Jr. will be the officiant. Burial will be in the Leiding Cemetery of Orr. She passed away on January 4, 2012 in Forest Lake, MN 

Katherine was born to Paul and Mary Vukelich on March 15, 1917, in Buhl, Minnesota. She moved to Orr in 1922, attended school in Cusson and Orr and graduated from Cook High School in 1935. She married Wallace S. Zick in 1938 and they lived and worked together in Orr until 1992 when they moved to Duluth.

Katie was a longtime member of the Orr American Legion Auxiliary and Holy Cross Catholic Church, and was invaluable in helping to operate the family business, Wally's Auto Service, for many years, as bookkeeper and accountant and as a general support for her husband. She was also active in the PTA, Catholic Women's Club, and was instrumental in erecting a memorial in the cemetery to the many known and unknown lumberjacks who lived and worked in the Orr area. She loved her grandchildren and always enjoyed picking blueberries.

She was preceded in death by her husband Wally on November 21, 2010;  three brothers: Michael, who died in June, 1944, on Normandy Beach; Matt Vukelich (Orr); John Vukelich (Duluth); and by two sisters: Helen Sy  (Bend, OR), and Mary Zgaynor (Togo).

She is survived by her daughter, Evelyn (Len) Mankus of Orr, and her son, Rev. Wallace Zick (Pat) of Stockholm, WI, and four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and three great great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held this spring.  Funeral arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook.

SERVICES: Memorial services for Katherine “Katie”( Vukelich) Zick, 94, Duluth formerly of Orr will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, July 28, 2012, at the Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. A. gathering of Family and friends will be held one hour prior to the service. Rev. Wallace S. Zick Jr. will be the officiant. Burial will be in the Leiding Cemetery of Orr. She passed away on January 4, 2012 in Forest Lake, MN