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Obituaries

Joyce M. LeTourneau

A Celebration of Life Service for Joyce LeTourneau, age 97, of Windom, will be held at the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center in Windom, on Wednesday, May 20th at 10:30 AM, with a time of visitation and gathering for one hour prior to the service.

Joyce Marie (Handevidt) LeTourneau was born on December 23, 1928, in Mountain Lake, Minnesota, to Hans and Sophie K (Rabbe) Handevidt. She was baptized and confirmed at Kimball Lutheran Church. Joyce attended District 83 grade school in Kimball Township and later graduated from Trimont High School in the Class of 1947. Joyce moved to Windom in 1948.

On July 10, 1961, Joyce was united in marriage to James P. LeTourneau at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Windom. Together they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with one son, Michael. Joyce and Jim enjoyed traveling, wintering in Texas from 2000 to 2006, and especially treasured time spent with family and friends.

Joyce worked for 15 years at Northside Drug and held several other jobs throughout the years. She was a devoted member of the Eagles 2891 Auxiliary and the American Legion 206 Auxiliary. Joyce will be remembered as a kind and gentle woman whose warmth and quiet presence touched those around her.

On May 2, 2026, Joyce passed away at the age of 97 at Windom Area Health in Windom, Minnesota.

Left to cherish her memory are her great nephews and nieces, Cary (April) Detloff and daughter, Lily of Escanaba, MI; Eric (Holly) Morris and children, Jacob, Chandler, & Kyle of Mankato; Ryan (Amy) Detloff and children, Ethan, Sylas and Leo of Fairmont; Brooke Morris (Dan Pelava) and children, Tyler, Matthew, Gabrielle and Landon of Madelia; Bethany Marquez and children, Delanie , Olivia and Bubba of Grand Rapids, MI; Amanda Marquez and children, Carlito, and Mya of Grand Rapids, MI; special cousins, Fred and Doreen Rabbe, and children, Sherry (Rabbe) Stovern and Monty Rabbe; special friends, Dean (Sue) Hopp, and Ralph Sweigard.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Hans and Sophie Handevidt; husband, James P. LeTourneau; son, Michael S. LeTourneau; an infant sister; brother and sister-in-law, Maynard and LaVerne Handevidt; nieces, Jane K. Morris, and Nancy L. Hocum.

Blessed be her memory.

 

Leo Wagner

A Mass of Christian Burial for Leo Wagner, age 84, of Windom, was held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 16th at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Windom, with a time of visitation and gathering from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at the church. Burial was held at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Windom.
Leo Henry Wagner was born on January 21, 1942, in Heron Lake, Minnesota, to Henry and Rosalia (Dorpinghaus) Wagner. He was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Heron Lake. Leo attended Heron Lake High School.
After high school, Leo was drafted to the United States Army and proudly served his country from 1964-1966. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO later served overseas in Korea, earning the rank of Specialist 4 (SP-4), before returning to Fort Huachuca, Ariz. During his military service, Leo received the Good Conduct Medal and Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle M-14). Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home to begin his lifelong career in farming.
On February 8, 1969, Leo was united in marriage to Dorothy Heutinck in Lakefield. The union was blessed with three children, Randall, Victoria and Wendalyn. They lived in Heron Lake for a few years and then bought a farm near Westbrook, where they raised their family. In addition to farming, Leo worked for the State of Minnesota as a grain inspector and later at AgCo in Jackson, before retiring. Leo was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cared deeply for his family. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events and activities. Leo was compassionate, generous, and fun-loving, with a quick sense of humor and a gift for conversation. He enjoyed visiting with family, friends, and even strangers he had just met. A hardworking man, Leo took great pride in farming and valued the friendships built through coffee groups, card games, and years spent in the community. Leo was a proud member of the American Legion for 60 years.
On May 12, 2026, Leo passed away at Windom Area Health in Windom, Minnesota.
Leo is survived by his wife, Dorothy R. Wagner of Windom; children, Randall (Theresa) Wagner of Maple Lake; Victoria (Richard) Borsgard of Windom, and Wendalyn Wagner (John Schwartz) of Cold Spring; Grandchildren - Alexander Borsgard, Josephine Wagner, Isaac Wagner, Cameron Wagner, Karissa (Bryce) Grove, Morgan (Cole) Wunschel and Drake (Meredith) Borsgard; four great grandchildren; siblings, Dorothy M. Wagner of Estherville IA; Jerome (Carol) Wagner of Windom; Lawrence (Shirley) Wagner of Heron Lake, Monica Heideman of Spirit Lake, IA, and Vernon (Linda) Wagner of Eagan.
Leo is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Rosalia Wagner; brother, Roger Wagner; and brother-in-law, Leroy Heideman.
Through his service to his country, devotion to his family, and years of hard work on the farm, Leo built a life marked by humility, integrity, and care for others. His memory will remain a lasting blessing to those who knew and loved him.

Gary Kent Erickson 

Gary Kent Erickson, age 71, of Wisconsin Dells, WI, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in Madison, WI (UW Hospital).
A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 P.M. at Edge O Dells Resort – POP’s Beach Bar & Pavilion (N551 Rembles Rd. WI Dells). A time for prayer and stories will be held at 2:00 P.M.
Gary was born October 19, 1954, in Windom, MN to Mervin and Mary (Jones) Erickson. He graduated from Windom, MN High School and moved to WI Dells in 1973, where the adventure started. Tommy Bartlett was seeking Sky Divers in South Dakota and travelling home he passed through Windom, MN, in his Porsche where Gary was working at a full-service gas station. “You don’t see cars like that around Windom”, so he struck up a conversation. Next thing you know Tommy is offering a job to “kids like you”, come to WI Dells to work! Gary “hustled tickets”, put bumper stickers on cars, ran show lights, plumbing, assisted with billboards and signs and anything else you can think of for over 35 years. He was proud to be a part of the Bartlett Family.
Gary enjoyed his travels with Tommy right along-side him in his planes including an incredible flight to Costa Rica, to fish of course! He also traveled with him to Germany (including picking up Porsches), Russia, Alaska including the first Concord Flight from NY to Paris! Gary then got a “Retirement Job” and joined his lifelong friend, Tom Turbett, forming Rainbow Sign Services, continuing on in the sign business until his death.
Gary was a Master at Cribbage, enjoyed all card games, and was always the Social guy! He so enjoyed all of his relationships with friends that were too many to count. Most of all he was a true Sportsman starting with his dad and brothers, growing up in SW Minnesota he told tales of his youth ice skating on the Des Moines River, shooting rabbits, squirrels, etc. then hunting deer, pheasants, geese and ducks. Gary hunted or fished in Alaska, Oregon, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, MN, to name a few. He hunted Moose, Bear, Caribou, Elk, Deer, Ducks, Geese, Pheasants, Prairie Dogs! And Fished Salmon, Yellow Fin Tuna, Sturgeon, Walley… preferably anything you could eat. “I don’t fish Musky, why would I, you can’t eat them!!” Above all, he always had a love of dogs and passion for his own.
Gary’s newest retirement hobby was gardening and that had to be done on a grand scale since he found out Terri could can his bounty! We so enjoyed his “Gary the Gardener here” videos on FB.
Gary is survived by his wife, Terri (Ackerman) Erickson; mother, Mary (Jones) Erickson; siblings, Steven (Chris) Erickson, Tracy (Herm) Meier, G Kevin (Jorie) Erickson (his identical twin and best friend in the world) and Eric (Kelley) Erickson; aunts and uncles; nephews and nieces, Andy (Alisha) Erickson, Dave Erickson, Kristi Erickson, Eric (Rachelle) Blakemore, Matt Blakemore, Mark (Holly) Jellen; parents-in-law Richard and Betty Ackerman, sisters-in-law, Sherri (Wayne) Gudex, Bonny (Jack) Ruelle, Carrie (Chris) Guse; step-daughter, Carrin Wahl; nieces and nephews-in-law; great-nieces and great-nephew; as well as many numerous cousins countrywide, that may have received a few late night surprise calls! He held all family dear to his heart. He is preceded in death by his father, Mervin Erickson and his aunts and uncles.
Gary had no fear of making friends with any stranger. “We can’t leave yet; there might be someone here I haven’t met!” He was a loyal friend to many, you knew it without question, quickly becoming family. He touched so many of our lives. Our hearts are heavy and we will miss you!
For online condolences and information, go to pichafuneralhome.com

 

Angela Weber

Angela Weber, age 51, of Sanborn, MN died on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Sanford Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD. Visitation will be on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Sturm Funeral Home in Springfield, MN and will continue on Saturday from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at St. Raphael's Catholic Church in Springfield.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 10:00 am at St. Raphael's Catholic Church with burial to follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Sanborn.
Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Springfield
Angela Ann Weber was born on Oct. 13, 1974, in Winona, MN. On Nov. 8, 1974, at 3 weeks old Angela was adopted through Catholic Charities in Rochester, MN to her loving parents Lynn and Phyllis Weber of rural Sanborn, MN.
At two years old Angela became a big sister to her baby brother Brian. Angela was baptized and confirmed at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Sanborn, MN. She attended Sanborn Elementary School and graduated from Sanborn-Lamberton High School in May of 1993. With Angela’s generous, caring heart she worked taking care of individuals that couldn’t care for themselves, and she always made sure her family received gifts on holidays. Angela enjoyed reading books, watching T.V., listening to music, collecting crystals, spending time with her cat Maybel Rose and her family, and she enjoyed talking on the phone.
Angela is survived by her parents; brother – Brian (Angel), nephew – Christian (Sammy), nieces – Deena (Jordan), Eva (Zach), and Fara (Josh); great nephew – Liam; 2 great nieces – Vienna and Lacy; her cat – Maybel Rose; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her grandparents – Arnold and Laura Weber and Perry and Irene Roiger; step grandmother – Marie Roiger; cousins – Eryn, Jason, Marty, Jerry, and Baby Lang.
Blessed be her memory.

Paul Marion Thompson

Paul M. Thompson, 80, of New London, died Sunday, May 24th at St. Cloud Hospital. There will be a time of remembrance from 4-6:00 pm, Monday, June 8th at Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home in Willmar with a service at 6:00 pm. www.hafh.org
Paul Marion Thompson was born December 24, 1945, to Frank and Ruth (Vanstrom) Thompson. He graduated from Maynard High School in 1963, where he was active in basketball, baseball, and football. His love of athletics continued into college as he played basketball while attending St. Cloud State University. In 1968, he graduated with a teaching degree and moved to Willmar, where he began teaching sixth grade at Lafayette Elementary School. Paul dedicated nine years to education and was deeply respected by his students, fellow teachers, and the community. After teaching, Paul started Thompson Roofing, where he worked until retirement. He married Kari Koep on July 15, 1992.
Throughout his life, Paul remained actively involved in sports and community activities. He coached elementary football and American Legion baseball, participated in fast-pitch softball for Town & Country Motors, played slow-pitch softball for Aerie #2334 Eagles Club, and served as a high school basketball official. His enthusiasm for athletics and mentorship touched many lives over the years.
Paul enjoyed the outdoors and treasured time spent with family and friends. Gardening was a lifelong passion that began through his involvement in 4-H as a young man. He was an avid hunter who enjoyed goose hunting at Lac qui Parle, pheasant hunting with Minnesota Vikings players, and duck hunting near Maynard. He also loved fishing, especially on Norway Lake and Maple Lake, and could often be found watching Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings games. In later years, he enjoyed being involved with the Kandi Racing Board alongside his grandson Adam and son, Scott Thompson.
Paul passed away peacefully at the age of 80 on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the St. Cloud Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Kari Thompson of New London; his children, Scott (Sherry and Charli) Thompson of Hancock; Julie Ford (Jay Pottala) of Sioux Falls, SD; and Matt (Angela) Thompson of Cold Spring; grandchildren: Adam Thompson, Allison (Brian) Thompson, Brandon (Britney) Ford, Aubrey Ford, Shannon (Caleb) Venkatrathnam, Ethan Thompson, Carter Thompson, and Dylan Thompson; great-grandchildren Braylon, Arian, and Allayah Burwell; Paulette (Williamson) Jelen; and his beloved pets, Jazzy and Cricket.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ruth Thompson; his sister, Susan Thompson; his son, Robert Thompson; and his daughter-in-law, Connie Thompson.
Paul will be remembered for his dedication to family, love of sports and the outdoors, commitment to education, and the many friendships he built throughout his life. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Ilene Haugen

Ilene Haugen, age 79, of Comfrey, died on June 3, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society in Windom, MN.
Visitation was Monday, June 8th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sturm Funeral Home in Comfrey, MN.
A private Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, June 9th at 11:00 am at New Hope Lutheran Church in Comfrey. Interment will be held at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Comfrey.
In Lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to be made to the Good Samaritan Society - Sogge Home, Windom MN.
Ilene Lillian Haugen, daughter of Ivar and Lillian (Bakken) Goltz, was born on November 15, 1946, in New Ulm, Minnesota. She attended school in Comfrey and graduated from Comfrey High School in 1964. After graduation, Ilene pursued her passion for beauty by attending the Mankato School of Beauty, where she became a licensed cosmetologist.
She worked in Mountain Lake while patiently awaiting the return of her high school sweetheart, Leland, who was serving in the United States Army. The couple was united in marriage on August 12, 1967, at West Sveadahl Lutheran Church near Saint James, Minnesota. They briefly lived in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, until December 1967, when they returned to Comfrey to begin farming and raise their four children.
In addition to her role as Leland's partner on the farm and as a homemaker, she worked for over 20 years as a site guide at the Jeffers Petroglyphs before retiring.
A true farm girl at heart, Ilene loved being outdoors and had a deep affection for animals. Above all, she cherished her family, and her grandchildren were her greatest joy. Ilene also had a passion for jewelry and was an avid collector of beautiful, sparkling pieces, each one a treasured keepsake. She also enjoyed watching the Minnesota Vikings play, NASCAR races, and old western television shows.
Ilene is survived by her children: Darren (Diane) Haugen of Comfrey; Raquel (Todd) Whitehill of Ankeny, Iowa; Brandon Haugen of Windom; and Jaime Haugen of Windom; as well as her grandchildren, Dylan Haugen and Deni Haugen; brother, Virgil (Rae) Goltz of Comfrey; Leland's sisters, Ramona (Jim) Way, Sharon (Tom) Goltz and Marsha Therkilsen and sister-in-law, Barb Haugen.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leland, in 2024; her parents; her sister, Patricia Schlottman; her twin sister, Irene, in infancy; her brothers-in-law, Dale Schlottman Sr. and Gerald O. Haugen; and her nephew, Scott Way.

 

Marie McRunnel

A Celebration of Life Service to honor the life and legacy of Marie McRunnel, age 88, of Mountain Lake, formerly of Windom, will be held Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church in Windom, with a time of visitation and gathering from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Burial will be in Memory Gardens Cemetery in Windom.
Marie passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Good Samarian Society in Mountain Lake.
Arrangements are under the care of the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center.

 

 

 

 

Marilyn Nickel

A Celebration of Life Service to honor the life and legacy of Marilyn Nickel, age 76, of Jeffers, was held Monday, June 8th at Jeffers United Methodist Church in Jeffers. Burial was in Jeffers Cemetery in Jeffers. The service was live streamed on the Jeffers United Methodist Church Facebook page.
Marilyn Kay (Waterman) Nickel was the second daughter born to Merritt August and Lillian Mirenda (Lindholm) Waterman in the Springfield hospital on Thanksgiving morning on November 24, 1949. She grew up in the Lamberton area where her dad owned the Lamberton Livestock Trucking business. Marilyn was baptized and confirmed in faith at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. When she was four years old, her dad passed away from diabetic complications. At six years old, her mom married William Halter Jr. They continued to live in the Lamberton area until her senior year of high school. Marilyn graduated from Springfield High School in 1967. After graduation, she attended a business school in Mankato.
On April 20, 1968, her life journey took a beautiful turn when she was united in marriage to the love of her life for 58 years, Marlow David Nickel. They settled in their forever home east of Jeffers raising four beautiful children, and Marilyn was a proud grandma to eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Family was at the heart of everything she did and cherished the moments spent together. They all enjoyed her special baking skills with buns and cinnamon rolls, special chocolate bars, and field meals-on-wheels. You could usually find her working on a sewing mission project on her dining room table.
Together they created a fun, busy household on the farm and enjoyed a variety of community activities. She served her community with a servant’s heart always ready to help. She served the Jeffers area on the ambulance for 20 years, was elected twice as the MN State Cattlewomen President, receiving the Cottonwood County Service Award and MN State Cattlewoman of the year. She served on the District Women in Faith board and cherished her many friends that she met along the way. She volunteered at the MN River Area Agency on Agency and A.C.E. of Southwest Minnesota where she enjoyed working with youth and doing many church activities. Anytime during the week, you could find her following local and MN sports or sitting on the bleachers to cheer on her kids and grandchildren.
She always enjoyed going on short trips with the family, celebrating holidays, and getting everyone together for games and competition. She enjoyed genealogy and preserved her family’s heritage by creating several family history books. In 2021, she was diagnosed with cardiac sarcoidosis.
Comforted by the love of her family and the promise of eternal life, Marilyn passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at Hospice of Murray County, in Slayton, Minnesota.
Those we hold in our arms for a little while we hold in our hearts forever. She was unwavering in her faith in God and thanked him each day for the beauty of the world he created.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 58 years, Marlow Nickel of Jeffers; her beloved children, Scott (Dawn) Nickel of Bingham Lake, Jamie (Heidi) Nickel of Plymouth, Robin (James) Weis of Jeffers, and Julie (Glenn) Peters of North Mankato; eight grandchildren, Collin (Megan), Devin (Sami), Ella, Kiana, Keegan (Sophia), Nautica, Bianca (Dalton), and Mikayla; three great-grandchildren, Carter, Rorie, and Deegan; stepbrother, Randy (Kay) Halter; and several nieces and nephews.
Sadly, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Merritt and Lillian Waterman; stepdad, William Halter Jr; sister, Helen (John) Burns; niece, Shannon Burns; parents-in-law, Marvin and Effie Nickel; two sets of special grandparents, Leander and Emma Lindholm and Martin and Susanna Waterman; and many family and friends.
Arrangements were under the care of the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center. Condolences and memories of Marilyn may be shared online at LaCanneFuneralHome.com.

Allen Lyman Bacon

Allen Lyman Bacon of Franklin, Ind., formerly of Windom, Minnesota, died 05/31/2026. Please visit www.flinnmaguire.net for complete obituary.

Muriel Star Link

A Celebration of Life Service to honor the life and legacy of Muriel Link, age 95, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and formerly of Windom, will be held Tuesday, June 16th at 1:00 PM at the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center in Windom, with a time of visitation and gathering for one hour prior to the service, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Windom.
Muriel Star Link was born on May 19, 1931, in Cottonwood County, Minnesota, to Eddie and Elvina (Olson) Lohre of Storden. She grew up on the family farm as one of eleven children. Her siblings affectionately called her "Mud," and while the story behind the nickname may be lost to time, it always brought a smile to those who knew her. She was baptized at Fish Lake near Windom.
After accepting Christ as her personal Savior, Muriel met the love of her life, Aaron Link. They were married on June 10, 1951, and shared 56 wonderful years together before Aaron's passing. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, and love, and were blessed with three children: Linda Joy of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Joel Scott of Milan, Minnesota; and Lori Mischelle of Tea, South Dakota.
Muriel was a woman of many talents and boundless creativity. She owned and operated Link Interiors in Windom, where her eye for beauty and design was evident in all she did. Whether she was sewing, drawing, decorating, or creating a welcoming space for family and friends, Muriel poured her heart into everything. Her home was always open, and many were blessed by her gift of hospitality, a warm meal, a listening ear, and genuine friendship.
More than anything, Muriel loved the Lord. Serving Him was the guiding purpose of her life, and her faith was evident in both her words and actions. She had a radiant smile, a caring heart, and a sincere interest in others. Through her church, her business, and countless personal relationships, she touched many lives with kindness, encouragement, and grace.
Muriel passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital, surrounded by her family. While her presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of unwavering faith, devotion to family, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Left to cherish her memory are her three children; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and four siblings: Evelyn, Leroy, Darlene, and Zola.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Aaron Link; sons-in-law Mark Bussa and Jim Schnasa; siblings Harold, Lucille, JoAnn, Effie, Elevern, and Leonard; and sister-in-law Jean.
Arrangements are under the care of the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center. Condolences and memories of Muriel may be shared online at LaCanneFuneralHome.com.

Robert "Bob" Espenson

A Celebration of Life Service to honor the life and legacy of Bob Espenson, age 81, of Bingham Lake, will be held Thursday, June 18th at 11:00 AM at the Mountain Lake Alliance Church in Mountain Lake.
A visitation for Bob will be held on Wednesday, June 17th from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Mountain Lake Alliance Church in Mountain Lake. Visitation will continue Thursday, June 18th, at the Mountain Lake Alliance Church in Mountain Lake for one hour prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. The service will be livestreamed on the Mountain Lake Alliance Church YouTube channel and Facebook page.
Robert "Bob" Lloyd Espenson, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on June 7, 2026.
Bob was born on October 26, 1944, in New Ulm, Minnesota, to Richard Lloyd Espenson and Dorothy Mae (Cunningham) Espenson. He was raised with a strong work ethic, deep faith, and a lifelong commitment to family-values that guided every part of his life.
On August 31, 1968, Bob married the love of his life, Marsha Marie Henningsen. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, farming, and service. They shared nearly 58 years of marriage and were blessed with five children.
Bob spent much of his life farming, raising corn and soybeans and caring for his beloved beef herd. He also worked for Jeffers Shields, Fast Distributing, and Glad Corn. Known for his strong work ethic, compassion, loyalty, and playful sense of humor, Bob took pride in a job well done. He especially enjoyed mowing and could often be found tending his yard, the lake area, and his fields, finding satisfaction in keeping them neat, beautiful and well cared for.
Family was one of Bob's greatest joys. He loved following his grandchildren in their activities and could often be found in the arena cheering them on at hockey games. He became an avid reader who especially enjoyed studying God's Word and listening to music. Bob and Marsha shared many meaningful crop tours together over the years. He had a fondness for John Deere green and yellow. A man of steadfast faith, Bob devoted many years to serving through AWANA, helping young children learn about Jesus. He also cherished his time with the XYZ Bible Study group and Sunday morning coffee fellowship. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, devotion to family, and service to others.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Marsha Espenson; his children, Karla (Mark) Hockel, Marty (Patty) Espenson, Jason (Cindy) Espenson, Michael (DeeDee) Espenson, and Justin (Brittany) Espenson; his grandchildren, Clay (Hannah) Hockel, Morgan (Peter) Jurickovich, Mia (Jonny) Klause, MacKenzie (Levi) Herring, Dakota (Carsyn) Hockel, Ryley (Bridgette) Espenson, Kyle (Kailey) Espenson, Brady Espenson and Payten Benda, Alex (Kristen) Espenson, Elliot Espenson, Londyn Espenson, Meadow Espenson, Zach Espenson, Nick Espenson, and Kole Espenson; and his great-grandchildren, Noelle, Lane, Dirks, MacKoy, Marsha-Pearl, Hadley, Jax, and Kasyn; siblings, Sandy (Ronnie) Dick, Rich (Marian) Espenson, and Monica Totman; brother-in-law, Tony (Patricia) Henningsen; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dorothy Espenson; his stepmother, Edna Espenson; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Genevieve Henningsen; and his brother-in-law, Roger Totman.
Bob's life was a testament to faithful living. Through his love for Jesus, devotion to his family, commitment to hard work, and willingness to serve others, he touched countless lives. His steady presence, generous heart, and enduring faith will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. Though his earthly work is complete, the seeds of faith, love, and integrity that Bob planted throughout his life will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23
Arrangements are under the care of the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center. Condolences and memories of Bob may be shared online at LaCanneFuneralHome.com.

Mountain Lake Observer / Advocate Mountain Lake Observer / Advocate

  • Ted H. Janzen
    on May 18, 2026 at 3:26 pm

    Theodore "Ted" H. Janzen, 96, of Mountain Lake, died May 14, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society in Mountain Lake. 

    Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Sturm Funeral Home in Mountain Lake with visitation one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Mountain Lake City Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Mountain Lake. Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

    Memorials in Ted’s memory are preferred to Voss Park Tree Fund.

    Ted was born on December 5, 1929, to Henry and Susie (Penner) Janzen in Mountain Lake. He attended school in Mountain Lake. He served for two years in the Army and was stationed at Camp Rucker in Alabama from 1951-1952. On June 30, 1956, he married Marjee Kuyper in Iowa. Together, they raised three children, Scott, Marilyn, and Chris.

    Ted began driving truck for his father in 1964 which led to a lifelong trucking career and finished his career with Land O’ Lakes as a mechanic before retiring in 1991. After retirement, he and Marjee bought a motorhome so they could travel more extensively. They enjoyed many winters in Apache Junction, Arizona and spent three summers as work-campers. Ted continued to spend winters in Texas with Scott and Tennessee with Chris for several years after Marjee passed. He spent summers working as a volunteer at Voss Park in Butterfield, Minnesota. His favorite job was on the riding lawn mower, helping to maintain the many acres of grass. During the Butterfield Threshing Bee, he would proudly exhibit his large pen collection.

    Ted moved into The Lodge in December 2022. He purchased an electric scooter and spent hours on the trails on the lake, enjoying the outdoors.

    Ted is survived by his children, Scott (Ramrada) Janzen, Marilyn (Paul) Schultz, and Chris (Susan) Janzen; grandchildren, Scott Janzen, Jr., Teddy Janzen, Levi (Ashley) Schmid, Jake (Heather) Janzen, Duke Janzen, Lea (Greg) Zich, and Cassandra (Simon) Frazer; great grandchildren, Hunter and Haleigh Janzen, Amery and Isabelle Zich, and Allison, Josephine, and Veronica Schmid; and brother, Dan (Margaret) Janzen.

    Ted was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marjee in 2012; brothers, Ben, Dave, and Carl Janzen; and grandson, Joshua Schmid.

  • Velma Maxine Stoesz
    on May 18, 2026 at 3:23 pm

    Velma Stoesz, age 96, was surrounded by family when she passed away on May 15, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

    Visitation will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Bethel Mennonite Church in Mountain Lake, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.  Interment will be at the Mountain Lake Cemetery.

    Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Mountain Lake.  Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com. 

    Velma Maxine Gaeddert was born in Buhler, Kansas on March 5, 1930, to Lena and Peter Gaeddert.  She grew up on a farm in the Inman/Buhler area.  Velma was the youngest of six children (3 boys and 3 girls).  She attended country school and graduated from Buhler High School in 1948.  After high school she attended Bethel College in North Newton, Kansas where she met her future husband, Wilbur “Charlie” Stoesz.  

    Velma and Charlie were married in Buhler Mennonite Church on September 14, 1952.  Soon after getting married Charlie was drafted into the Army and Velma moved to Mountain Lake to live with her parents-in-law, John F. and Minnie Stoesz.  Velma joined Charlie, where he was stationed in El Paso, Texas after he completed his basic training.  When Charlie completed his service in the Army, they moved back to Mountain Lake where Velma was a homemaker and Charlie joined the family business, Mountain Lake Oil Company (Texaco).  Over the years Velma and Charlie had five children (John, Kathy, Tom, Carol, and Tim).  After the children were in school, she worked outside of the home, first at Mountain Lake High School where she served as Resource Room Coordinator and then later at the Mt. Lake Observer as a Proofreader.

    Velma’s service in the church was deeply rooted and spanned decades.  Her initial connection was with the Bethel Mennonite Church Worship and Sew Society that provided her fellowship and life-long friendships. She was very active in church: singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School, serving as a deacon, and on various committees.  Other church and community service included volunteering at the Care and Share and at Good Samaritan Village.

    Some of Velma’s favorite activities were attending Mt. Lake high school sporting and musical events, playing golf, following her beloved Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and family vacations in Northern Minnesota. Velma enjoyed cooking, especially Mennonite ethnic foods. She enjoyed doing cross stitch projects and reading. What really brought Velma joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

    Velma is survived by her children John (Marcia), Kathy (Gary) Bochman, Tom (Heather), Carol (Kenny) Frank, and Tim (Jenny), ten grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie, her parents, Peter and Lena, brothers Melvin, Elmer and John, sisters Lorene and Erma, and two great grandchildren, Hannah and Calvin.   

    Memorials preferred to Bethel Mennonite Church.

  • Shirley Ann Hansen
    on May 5, 2026 at 4:03 pm

    Shirley Ann Hansen, age 94, of Mountain Lake, MN, died on May 3, 2026, at Sleepy Eye Medical Center. 

    Funeral Service was at Mountain Lake Alliance Church in Mountain Lake, MN on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 11:00AM. Visitation was at church one hour prior.

    Interment at a later date. 

    Sturm Funeral Home, Mtn Lake. www.sturmfh.com. 

    Shirley Ann (Banks) Hansen was born on December 15, 1931 on a farm near Jasper, MN to David and Edith Banks. At age 5, Shirley's mother passed away and her father decided to put all of the children in to foster care because he was overwhelmed with four children. Shirley's foster parents were Charlie and Esther Hartman from Sherman, SD and she spent her childhood on this farm going to school at a country school; later going to Jasper High School and graduating in 1949.

    After high school, she moved to the Mountain Lake area and met her future husband, George Hansen. They farmed together for several years and then decided to move into Darfur. They spent 38 years together in Darfur, raising three children. Besides being a mother, she was employed at various places, including the Darfur Bank, Darfur restaurant, and Comfrey Hospital. At age 50, she decided to become a nurse and went to nursing school in New Ulm, MN. She became an LPN and worked at the Mountain Lake Hospital for ten years.

    After retirement, Shirley and George purchased a home in Apache Junction, AR and spent their winters there.

    George passed away in 2004 and later, Shirley courted and married Clifford Netsch. The marriage lasted ten years before Clifford passed away in 2018. 

    Shirley moved to Divine Providence Nursing Home in Sleepy Eye in September of 2024. After several bouts of pneumonia over the last few winters, she passed away on May 3, 2026.

    Shirley is survived by her daughter, Jane Hansen of Mountain Lake; son, Jon Hansen of New Ulm; son-in-law, Wayne Koenig; sister, Patty Eyster; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her first husband, George Hansen; second husband, Clifford Netsch; parents, David and Edith Banks; foster parents, Charlie and Esther Hartman; brother, Elwood Banks; sister, Ivera and daughter, Katherine Koenig.

  • Mary Wiese
    on April 20, 2026 at 3:32 pm

    Mary Esther Wiese, 80, of Comfrey, died April 18, 2026, at her home.

    Visitation will be Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at the Sturm Funeral Home in Comfrey. Visitation will continue on Thursday from 10:00am until 11:00am at New Hope Lutheran Church in Comfrey. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 11:00am at New Hope Lutheran Church in Comfrey. Interment will take place at the Springfield City Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Comfrey. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

    Mary was born on December 25, 1945, to George and Esther (Siegmann) Ebnet in Springfield. She graduated from Wabasso Public High School. After graduation, she attended higher education in Mankato, earning an associate's degree in payroll. She worked for a year in Marshall, Minnesota. On April 25, 1965, she married Ken Wiese at Faith Lutheran Church in Comfrey. They were married one week short of 61 years.

    Mary farmed alongside Kenny and raised four children. She was involved with the church choir, loved to bake, cook and read as well as cake decorating and candy making. In her early years, she and Kenny enjoyed square dancing and old-time music.

    Mary is survived by her husband, Ken; children, Susan Wiese of Willmar, Donna (Mark) Gosson of Benson, and Paula (Mike Pidde) Wiese of Comfrey; grandchildren, Brianna (Kelsi O'Leary) Treml of Saint Paul, Mitchell (Meghan) Treml of Renville, Brandon Gosson of Dawson, and Anna Gosson of Wheaton; and brothers, Gene (Terese) Ebnet of New Ulm, Kenny (Deb) Ebnet of Wabasso, and Mike Ebnet of New Ulm.

    Mary was preceded in death by her parents; son, Robert Wiese; brother, Jerry Ebnet; brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald and Joyce Wiese, Orvis and Rita Sell, and Betty Jane Wiese; nephew, Doug Wiese; and niece, Denise Motisi.

  • Timothy J. Fast
    on March 23, 2026 at 4:00 pm

    Tim Fast, beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, and precious light to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at the age 61.

    Timothy James Fast was born on September 13, 1964, at the hospital in Windom, Minnesota, to Alvin "Bud" J. Fast and Velma (Harms) Fast. Velma, an elementary school teacher, noticed early that Tim was not developing as expected. After local doctors couldn't provide answers, they traveled to the University of Minnesota, where Tim was diagnosed with Down syndrome nearly a year later.

    Tim was a trailblazer. Born at a time when many children with Down syndrome were institutionalized, told they won't live long, and given limited expectations for their lives. Tim's story reflects the power of community coming together and compassion. In that era, Minnesota's rate of institutionalizing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities was nearly double the national average, largely due to a lack of community-based supports.

    But God blessed Tim with a strong Mennonite family, who became strong advocates for community-based services. Bud and Velma started attending the Cottonwood County ARC meetings and joined other families to push for change (ARC - Association serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities).

    Their hard work paid off when the Swan Lake Children's Center opened in Delft on September 19, 1966, to help children with disabilities. They were so excited when Tim started attending the Center shortly after it opened at the age of two on October 3, 1966. As the youngest child admitted to the new early childhood education program, Tim was initially accepted on a trial basis. Within a year, he made remarkable progress-gaining skills like walking, eating, and toileting-demonstrating the impact of early intervention for children with special needs.

    At the Center's first open house, state officials called it a unique, one-of-a-kind model, praising the community's initiative and emphasizing that meaningful change begins with people willing to act. One state director pointed out that this Center is a great example of what happens when "people who care and are willing to take action." They doubted if anyone in Washington, D.C., would be interested in "little Timmy" if residents hadn't taken steps to support his and other children's learning (as reported in the paper).

    Thanks to the strong foundation he received at Swan Lake, Tim was able to transition to Windom public schools and confidently ride the bus to attend special education classes. He loved his teachers and especially enjoyed participating in Special Olympics and proudly displayed his gold medal and bronze medal that he won at St. Cloud and when Windom hosted its first Special Olympics tournament. From the day he was born, Tim's family encouraged him to reach his full potential. They were incredibly proud when, at age 21, he graduated with the Windom Area High School Class of 1986.

    After graduation, Tim was ready to move into a supportive group residential home that would further his independence. Tim moved on November 18th, 1987, to a Windom Community Residential Facility (CRF) sponsored home on 945-947 Prospect in Windom that was later run by Residential Advantages Incorporated (RAI). He lived there for 31 years until November 2018. He then moved into a residential home with Client Community Services, Inc. Tim cherished his friendships from his housemates, and the staff always treated him like family. Tim was blessed to live his entire life within such a caring and affirming community.

    Tim used his gifts and talents working more than 40 years at the Cottonwood County Developmental Achievement Center (DAC) Inc. in Windom, MN. DAC, born from community action with residents uniting to make a difference, opened in March 1968, two years after the Swan Lake Children's Center. Tim had a range of jobs over the years. He rarely missed a day of work due to DAC creating a happy work environment filled with lifelong friendships. Tim experienced unwavering dedication and kindness from countless staff and volunteers through the decades.

    Tim found joy in various activities, including spending time with dogs, watching musicals, Vikings football, Timberwolves basketball, Twins baseball, eating pizza and pop, attending church with his parents, and having lunch afterward at Hardees. He also loved attending gospel music concerts with his dad and insisted on shaking the pastor's hand even if it meant leaving last. After his parents passed, he attended the American Lutheran Church in Windom.

    Tim wasn't one to talk much, but when he did, people really listened. His warm smile, handshake, and playful grin brought happiness to everyone around him. In his own special way, Tim helped soften hearts, taught compassion, and changed how people saw and treated those with special needs. His parents' work and Tim's influence were the first steps before the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was passed, but there's still a lot of work to do to ensure that all Tim's can live full and happy lives.

    Tim is survived by his older brother and sister-in-law, Jerry Fast/Kimberly Fast of Truman, MN; his older sister, Becky Fast of Roeland Park, KS; his nephews and nieces, Jordan Fast/Saige Wudtke of Volga, SD, Taylor/Haley Fast of North Mankato, MN, and Kiah/Curtis Graber of Rochester, MN; and great nephews, Griffin Fast and Mason Fast of North Mankato, MN. Tim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

    Blessed be the memory of Timothy James Fast.

    Please join the family on April 10th for a celebration of life at 11 am at the American Lutheran Church in the Fellowship Hall on 906 Prospect Ave, Windom, MN 56101. A lunch reception will follow the service. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Mountain Lake. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the nonprofit Client Community Services that provides community-based supports at www.clientcommunityservices.org.