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Death Notices
Complete obituaries can be found in the Paynesville Press each week.

February 2022


Johnson Funeral Home


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Obituary Archives

Arlene Anderson, 90, Paynesville
Funeral services celebrating the life of Arlene B. (Stanger) Anderson, 90, of Paynesville were held on Monday, Feb. 21, 2022, at the Daniel-Anderson Funeral Home in Paynesville. Arlene passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2022, at CentraCare Health in Paynesville as a result of a cardiac event. Pastor David Rogers officiated. Burial was in the Paynesville Cemetery. Arlene was born on Aug. 10, 1931, in Graff, Minn. to Burton and Agnes (Lunde) Raun. She grew up and graduated from Ulen, Minn. She married Bill Stanger on March 20, 1951, in Ulen. They resided in Georgia and California prior to settling in Paynesville in 1952. In addition to being a loving and devoted wife and mother, Arlene shared her talent of cooking in the Paynesville Schools for 23 years. Bill passed away unexpectedly in 1978. Arlene married Calvin Anderson in 1981 in Paynesville. She was a past member of Grace United Methodist Church in Paynesville and attended Cornerstone Baptist Church in Willmar. Arlene was a proud and active member of the Paynesville American Legion Post Auxiliary #271. Arlene was an avid bowler. She also enjoyed golfing, sewing, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, reading, knitting, crocheting, camping, and watching Jeopardy with her son Jim. She will be remembered for taking pride in her Scandinavian heritage, her excellent cooking and baking, and above all her love of family. Arlene is survived by her children, James (Val) Stanger of Paynesville, Charles (Mary Jo) Stanger of Clear Lake, Catherine (Hubert) Gerding of Hawick, Virginia (Craig) Schiffler of Melrose, and Suzanne (David) Binsfeld of Litchfield; step-children, James (Melinda) Anderson of Brownsburg, Ind., Joleen (Joel) Sandahl of Dresden, Germany, Jayne (Donnie) Plympton of Tampa, Fla., and Jill (Tom) Walding of Harshaw, Wis.; step-daughter-in-law, Heather Anderson of Murray, Utah; 28 grandchildren; 59 great-grandchildren (with more on the way); sisters, Barbara Stadler and Beverly (Darrel) Montieth; and many relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill in 1978 and Cal in 2021; step-son, Joseph Anderson, two infant step-grandchildren; and siblings, Maynard Raun, Ingeborg Asleson, and Lyle Raun. A heartfelt thank you to the staff of CentraCare Paynesville for their compassionate care of our mother.


Geri Spanier, 79, Paynesville

Geraldine "Geri" Spanier, 79, of Paynesville died on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, at the Koronis Manor in Paynesville. Funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 4, 2022, at Grace United Methodist Church in Paynesville. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at the Johnson Funeral Home in Paynesville and for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Paynesville Cemetery. Geraldine Lois Spanier was born on Feb. 18, 1943, in Paynesville, the daughter of Arnie and Evelyn (Schultz) Hertzberg. She grew up in rural Paynesville and attended Paynesville High School, graduating in 1961. On Oct. 9, 1965, she was united in marriage to Wesley Miller. They were blessed with two sons, Troy and Terry. They made their home and farmed near Lake Henry until Wes' death on May 3, 1968. On June 10, 1970, Geri was united in marriage to Dave Spanier, and they were blessed with two sons, Todd and Tory. They made their home in Paynesville, where she drove bus for Paynesville Motor and Transfer from 1969 until her retirement in 2009. In retirement she continued to drive bus. She enjoyed all the kids on her Lake Henry route and loved driving to sporting events. Geri and Dave were able to share in 36 years of marriage before his death on Nov. 19, 2006. Geri was an active member of Grace Methodist Church. She enjoyed keeping busy with sewing, puzzles, reading, gardening, and amazing crafting of all types. She loved baking for her family and friends and will be forever missed for her famous caramel rolls and turtle cookies. Her world centered on family and followed all her kids' and grandchildren's activities and took great pride in making all holiday and family celebrations special. She is survived by her sons, Troy (Kathy) Miller of Chaska, Terry (Lisa) Miller of Paynesville, Todd (Jackie) Spanier of Paynesville, and Tory (Sarah) Spanier of Delano; 12 grandchildren; and her sister, Joyce Wonsmos of St. Paul. Geri was preceded in death by her husbands, Wesley Miller and Dave Spanier; her parents; sister, Shirley; brother, Allen; daughter-in-law, Nadine Miller; and a baby grandson.


Elizabeth Lingl, 48, Paynesville

Elizabeth Lingl, 43, of Paynesville passed away on Saturday, Jan. 8, to her eternal resting place. A celebration of life will be held at Grace United Methodist Church on Saturday, Feb. 26, at 2 p.m. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday at the church. Liz is survived by her daughter Nicole Lingl; her parents Brad and Paula Lingl; brothers and sisters Joseph Lingl, Ben (Renee) Lingl, and Emily Peterson (Josh Jampsen); and many nieces and nephews. Liz was preceded in death by her sister Jessica Lingl and by her grandparents. In honor of her memory, she would ask that you do something kind for a friend or someone in need. Liz will be laid to rest beside her sister Jessica at the Paynesville Cemetery in the spring when flowers are in bloom. The family wants to thank all their extended family, friends, and caregivers for all the support and care they have provided.


Bob Gardner, 90, Paynesville

Frank Robert "Bob" Gardner, 90, of Paynesville, Minn., died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022, at the Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta, Minn. Bob was born Oct. 25, 1931, in Lincoln, Neb., to Helen Margaret Bryant and the Reverend Frank Nelson Gardner. In his youth, he lived in several different towns and states due to his father's employment as a minister. Eventually, Bob and the family settled in Des Moines, Iowa, where he graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1948. He then went on to attend Drake University and graduated in 1955 with a bachelor of arts degree. While at Drake, Bob played football as a tight end for the Drake Bulldogs. It was at Drake University that Bob met his future wife, Mary Jane "Jane" Drake. They married on June 3, 1953, at University Christian Church, with Bob's father officiating. They were married 54 years before Jane died in May 2008. Bob spent most of his adult working career in electrical supply sales in Iowa. He started his sales career at Westinghouse in Davenport, Iowa. He also worked for Terry-Durin Electrical Supply Company for many years. ÊHe was a recipient of the IAMU (Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities)ÊAssociate Member Award in 2000. He worked for Iowa Utility Supply just before his retirement In 1975, Bob moved his family just outside of Davenport to a hobby farm in Blue Grass, Iowa. It was there that he raised beef cattle and grains. He provided his three daughters with a longed-for horse and three ponds. Bob raised a large garden and orchard. There was rarely a need for fresh produce in the Gardner household. Bob served on the zoning board of adjustment for several years for the City of Blue Grass, Iowa. Bob always enjoyed a good game of pinochle or poker, as well as bridge, which he played professionally with his wife in his younger years. Bob enjoyed "coming up north" to fish for many decades at the Scenic Hiway Resort with his guide and owner, Virgil. Virgil made sure Bob always had his limit of walleye and crappie. Bob was also an avid hunter, loving to hunt quail and pheasant in Mt. Ayr, Iowa, with his friends, the Trullingers and numerous others. Bob tried hard never to miss a December deer hunt there. Not long after Jane died, Bob moved to Paynesville, Minn., where his son Dr. Robert Gardner (also Bob) and his wife Phyllis built an apartment for him attached to their home. In later years, Bob liked to say, "If I'd known I would live this long, I would have taken better care of myself." The family would like to thank Dr. Bob Gardner and Phyllis for providing a home to Dad in his later years, and ensuring he got the medical care he needed to live a long and happy life. Survivors include Bob's children, Dr. Bob Gardner and his wife Phyllis of Paynesville; Linda Dodd and her husband Tom of Davenport, Iowa; Kathryn Faver and her husband Bill of Bemidji, Minn.; and Anne Fonda and her husband Rick of York, Pa. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; by his brothers Reverend Bill of Newton, Iowa; and Richard (wife Kathy) of Cambridge Minn. Ê Bob's sister Margaret Joan Gardner died in 1983.Ê A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022 at the Daniel-Anderson Funeral Home (635 Airport View Court) in Paynesville. Visitation will begin after 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19, at the funeral home in Paynesville. Private burial will take place at the Ponto Lake Cemetery near Deer River at a later date.


Roman Schaefer, 79, St. Martin

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin, Minn., for Roman J. Schaefer, 79, who passed away at the Paynesville Hospital on Friday, Feb. 11 Burial will be in the parish cemetery. The visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2022, at the St. Martin Parish Hall. Visitation will continue from 8:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday morning, Feb. 16, at the St. Martin Parish Hall. Roman was born on Oct. 9, 1942, in St. Martin, Minn., to Edward and Alvina (Orbeck) Schaefer. He graduated from Paynesville High School. Roman married LuAnn Wensmann on July 9, 1966, in Immaculate Conception Church, New Munich. Roman and LuAnn farmed on the family farm, where they raised their four children. In 1997 they moved to Rice Lake, where they resided for 20 years, and recently moved to St. Martin. He served in the Army Reserves and enjoyed traveling, pontoon rides, bowling, deer hunting, and playing baseball and softball. Roman loved spending time with his family and going to his grandchildren's sporting events. He was a member of the Lake Henry American Legion, Catholic United Financial, St. Martin Coop Board, St. Martin Parish, St. Martin Baseball Team, and the Rough Riders Snowmobile Club. Roman is survived by his children, Keith (Pat), Michelle (Dale) Schoenberg, and Stacy (Jesse) Kampsen; grandchildren, Megan (Tate) Hill, Kayla (Trent Gertken), Sara, and Abby Schaefer; Taylor and Ellie Schoenberg; and Brady and Brooke Kampsen; great-grandchildren, Julia and Harlen Hill; siblings, Marilyn Kaschmitter, Elnora Lieser, Doreen (George Drontle) Heidgerken, Dolores (John) Maile, Irene (Duane) Burg, and Alice (Chuck) Niewind. He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife of 55 years, LuAnn (2021); son, Darrin (2013); and brothers-in-law, Bill Kaschmitter, Smiley Lieser, Willie Salzl, and Jim Heidgerken. Arrangements are with Wenner Funeral Home, Richmond.


Carl Norris, 80, Brooten

Carl E. Norris, 80, of Brooten went home to be with the Lord on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family after a short battle with pneumonia at Alomere Health Hospital in Alexandria, Minn. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 21, at Harvest Church in Freeport with Pastor Allen Wieling officiating. Interment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Melrose. Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 21, at the church in Freeport. Carl Ervin Norris was born Sept. 17, 1941, in Spencer, Iowa, to Frank and Elva (Freeburg) Norris. He graduated from Spring Lake Park in 1959. His first job after high school was for Honeywell; he soon realized working indoors was not for him. Carl was a dreamer, and one of his gifts was to work with his hands, so he left Honeywell for construction work. On Jan. 18, 1962, he married Judith Kneiszler in Minne-apolis. Since his real dream was to be a farmer, once they moved to Hinkley, he began farming and worked construction on the side. Since his goal was to farm full-time, Carl and Judy bought a farm in Atwater, and they farmed with dairy cattle for 11 years. The family had countless family memories growing up on the farm, where the father figure was always present. Carl exemplified a great love for God, family, music, and a strong work ethic, which are all evident in his children and their families. They then sold the farm and moved to Long Prairie and milked a smaller herd of dairy cattle for four more years. Due to physical limitations, Carl had to stop farming, and he drove semi over the road for 16 years. Carl and Judy lived in many different towns, from Staples, to Sauk Centre, Luverne to Eagle Bend, and finally Brooten. Carl's passion for music was certainly evident as he played bass, accordion, piano, and both electric and acoustic guitar. His wonderful voice could be heard in the church choir, or singing with Judy for church specials, but he experienced true joy as he played guitar on the church worship team with his two boys for a number of years. Carl was happiest when he was with his family. He was a member of Harvest Church in Freeport. He had been a church deacon and played in the praise band in the various churches he attended. He enjoyed restoring pickups and cars, woodworking, watching tractor pulls, motorsports, and deer hunting. Survivors include his wife, Judy Norris of Brooten; children, Deborah (Steve) Struthers of Cokato, Steve (Danelle) Norris of Melrose, Victoria (Daniel) Mensen of Osakis, and Aaron (Julie) Norris of Albany; 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; sisters, Shirley (David) Capistrant of Grove City and Beverly (Denny) Smith of Litchfield; and many other extended family members. Carl was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Roland L. "Bud" Norris; sister, Linda R. Davis; and brother-in-law, Bob Davis. Casket bearers will be his grandsons, Justin, Jordan, and Jake Struthers, and Jared, Michael, and Andrew Norris. Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.


Donna Ahrens, 77, Paynesville

Donna L. E. Ahrens, 77, of Paynesville, Minn., passed away on Monday, Jan. 31, 2022, due to complications of pulmonary fibrosis. A celebration of life will be held at Paynesville Lutheran Church on Saturday, April 2. Donna was born on Nov. 1, 1944, on a farm north of Paynesville to parents Paul and Irene Hemmesch. She was second eldest of 11 children. She graduated from Paynesville High School in 1962 and attended Mankato State University and St. Cloud Business College. She worked as an administrative assistant for Sister Jamine at the St. Cloud Hospital before she married Lew Ahrens in 1964. They raised their family and farmed north of Paynesville for 48 years until his death in 2013. Donna's interests and passions often focused on education and high school activities and sports. She served on the Paynesville School Board and later worked as administrative assistant to the superintendent of Paynesville schools for over 20 years until her retirement in 2006. She and Lew were very passionate supporters of high school sports, and she was the announcer for various Paynesville High School sporting events including football, volleyball, and wresting. She also enjoyed attending local amateur baseball games in the summer, attending Gopher and Twins games, playing cards, reading books, gardening, sewing, cross-stitch, traveling on numerous bus trips throughout the U.S. and Canada, visiting casinos, and playing bingo. Donna was also very strong in her Christian faith and frequently served at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, including ushering, participating in stewardship council meetings, and teaching Sunday school. She was recently a member of Paynesville Lutheran Church and often volunteered with the R.O.S.E. Center recycling eye glasses, driving folks to their appointments, and delivering Meals on Wheels. Donna was a beloved wife, wonderful mother, and unconditional friend to many in the Paynesville community. She endured a number of health-related issues in recent years and earned the nickname Wonder Woman with her seemingly never-ending positive attitude and resilience through it all. Surviving Donna is her son, Thomas Ahrens of Paynesville; daughter Terese (Brian) Mattson of Robbinsdale; grandson Nicholas of Paynesville; siblings Ken (Jane) Hemmesch of St. Cloud, LaVon Gustafson of New London, Beverly (Patrick) Hemmesch of Eden Prairie, Keith (Sandy) Hemmesch of Paynesville, Craig (Jody) Hemmesch of Big Lake, Paula Jo Davis (Brad) of Elk River, Kurt (Bonnie) Hemmesch of Cold Spring, and Kellan (Shelly) Hemmesch of Sartell; sister-in-laws Pat Hemmesch of Burnsville, Mary Hemmesch of Sauk Rapids, Jerrine (Jim) Posey of Paynesville, Sheryl Schmiginsky of Paynesville, and Rhonda Wendlandt of Paynesville; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lew Ahrens; parents, Paul and Irene Hemmesch; brothers Con Hemmesch and Kevin Hemmesch; infant brother Kernan Hemmesch; and brother-in-laws Chuck Gustafson, Robert Wendlandt, and Roger Ahrens. We want to thank all of our extended family, friends, and the many members of her caregiver teams for all the support and care they have provided. Memorials preferred, in lieu of flowers, to Paynesville High School or to Paynesville Lutheran Church.


Alvin Bertram, 52, Hutchinson

Alvin D. Bertram, 52, of Hutchinson, Minn., passed away on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, at Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minn. A funeral service was held Saturday, Jan. 22, at Faith Lutheran Church in Hutchinson with interment in St. Martin Cemetery in St. Martin, Minn. Casket bearers were: Rick Bertram, Bill Bertram, Dean Bertram, Ben Blonigen, Judy Blonigen, and Willy Blonigen. Alvin Daniel Bertram was born on Aug. 19, 1969, in Paynesville, Minn. He was the son of Wilfred "Willie" and Janine (Spoden) Bertram. Alvin was baptized as an infant, and later confirmed in his faith as a youth at St. Martin Catholic Church. He received his education in Paynesville and was a graduate with the Paynesville High School Class of 1988. He furthered his education at Brainerd Technical College and graduated with his associate's degree in 1990. Alvin was the owner and operator of Fun Sports in Hutchinson, Minn. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church and Glacier Lakes Motorcycle Club, Crow River Wheelers, and Snow Pros. Alvin enjoyed the outdoors, especially, anything motor-sports. In his younger years he loved riding and racing four-wheelers. Then, he continued that love with dirt bikes in his later years. He always had at least one motorcycle, usually more, and would often be off on long rides. Regardless of where he was riding, he was always looking for the perfect road, dirt or tar, and would go a long way out of the way to find it. He enjoyed leading motorcycle rides and sharing his joy of riding with others. Usually there was some laughing included along the way. Most people will instantly know Alvin by his love of motorsports, but when he was not involved in some way with that, he enjoyed deepening his faith, spending time with friends and family, deer hunting, and shooting at Cedar Mills Gun Club. Many times, these activities were mixed with a quick laugh and a cold beer. Blessed be his memory. Alvin is survived by his: mother, Janine Bertram of Paynesville; siblings, Rick Bertram and his wife, Denice of Paynesville; Judy Blonigen and her husband, Willy of St. Martin; Bill Bertram of Paynesville; and Dean Bertram of Hutchinson; girlfriend, Linda Schneider of Hutchinson; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, other relatives, and friends. Alvin was preceded in death by his father, Wilfred "Willie" Bertram; and his brother, Roger Bertram. Arrangements by the Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson. Online obituary and guest book available at www.hantge.com.


Gen Butkofski, 97, Paynesville

Genevieve A. Butkofski, 97, of Paynesville, Minn., passed away peacefully to her eternal resting place on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. She is survived by daughter Nancy (John) Frobenius and son Jim (Debi) Butkofski; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren In keeping with our mother's wishes, her funeral will be a private celebration of life. She will be laid to rest beside her late husband, Willie, at Camp Ripley in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom, her favorite time of year. In honor of her memory, she would ask that you do something kind for a friend or someone in need. RIP Mom Ð we love you forever, your family. A special thank you to Angie at 700 Stearns for your help, kindness, and support.


Art Mohs, 78, Paynesville

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville for Arthur J. Mohs, 78, of Paynesville and formerly of Roscoe, who passed away on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, at the Paynesville Hospital. Reverend Glenn Krystosek officiated. Burial was in the St. Agnes Parish Cemetery in Roscoe. Art was born on May 16, 1943, to Joseph and Thekla (Winter) Mohs in Melrose, Minn. He married Louise Mary Schaefer on July 2, 1966, at St. Martin's Catholic Church in St. Martin. Art lived life to the fullest and knew how to have fun. Earlier in life he enjoyed softball and bowling, was always a big fan of the Twins and Vikings, liked playing cards with family and friends, and was a member of the St. Joseph's Society, Knights of Columbus, and Catholic United. Art also loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. He had various jobs, though most enjoyed working at Buerman Homes, owning a bar and bowling alley in Roscoe, and driving his semi-truck later in life. Art is survived by his wife, Louise; and three children, Brenda Mohs (Orlando) of Roscoe, Dean Mohs of Washington, D.C., and Nicole (Jesse) Cromwell of Zimmerman; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; brothers and sisters, Jerome Mohs, Ralph (Josephine) Mohs, Viola Leukam, Harvey (Evie) Mohs, Adeline (Martin) Scholoeder, Theresa (Ed) Brang, and Cathy Kluempke; sisters-in-law, Pam Mohs and Carol Mohs; brother-in-law, Gene Plachecki; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Art was preceded in death by his brothers, Francis Mohs and Joseph Mohs; sisters, Mary Plachecki, Dorothy (Joe) Holthaus, and Angeline (Martin) Kalthoff; brothers-in-law, James Kluempke and Al Leukam; and sister-in-law, Eleanor Mohs. Louise and family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Paynesville doctors, nurses, and the entire care team for the steadfast and kind care provided to Art throughout these past couple of years. The family of Art Mohs greatly appreciates your expression of sympathy. Thank you so much for your kindness and support.


Mari Louis, 69, Paynesville

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville for MariAnn H. Louis, 69, of Paynesville, who passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022 at the Mayo Clinic Methodist Campus in Rochester, from complications of kidney disease. Reverend Glenn Krystosek will officiate. Entombment will be in the St. Louis Parish Cemetery Mausoleum. Masks are required to be worn for the funeral services. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022, at the Daniel-Anderson Funeral Home in Paynesville and from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday, Feb. 9, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville. Mari was born on Aug. 7, 1952, to Elmer and Donna (Feneis) Eisenschenk in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She was united in marriage to Cecil A. Louis on Aug. 16, 1975, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Cold Spring. Mari worked for Good Samaritan and the Paynesville Health Care System, retiring after 30 years of service. She enjoyed giving of her time and talents by being a part of many community organizations and was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church. Mari was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who above all enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. She enjoyed hosting and organizing family events and talking on the phone with friends and family. She was always there to provide her love and support for their every need. She also enjoyed reading, going to garage sales, and crocheting. She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Cecil; children, Ryan (Joy) of Prescott, Ariz., and Jessica (Nick) Spillman of New London; grandchildren, Julian, Theo, Kendra, Gage, Jake, and Levi; great-grandchildren, Hunter and Baxtin; mother, Donna Eisenschenk; siblings, Mike (Sue), Tom (Marilyn), Mark (Jan), John (Mary), Doris Eisenschenk, Paul, Kevin (Chris), and Julie (Julie) Eisenschenk; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Mari is preceded in death by her father, Elmer; and father- and mother-in-law, Alfred and Betty Louis. A special thank you to the staff of Mayo Clinic in Rochester for their loving and compassionate care of Mari. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.


Marlene Christle, 84, Paynesville

Marlene Beverley Christle, 84, of Paynesville, Minn., passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022. She was a graduate of Paynesville High School and an active member of the Nordland Lutheran Church. In addition, she was a certified Master Gardener who won many awards for her floral arrangements including grand champion and best in show. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and incredibly proud great-grandmother. Marlene enjoyed a long list of hobbies that included gardening, reading, crafting, bird watching, and floral arranging. She was known for bringing freshly grown produce and flowers to the farmers market, and sending homemade cards to all her friends and loved ones. Those who knew her best will also remember her for her homemade bread. A visitation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 3, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Nordland Lutheran Church fellowship hall. Funeral services will also be held at the church on the following day Friday, Feb. 4, at 1 p.m. with visitation to follow. She was preceded in death by her parents Ken and Esther Deadrick; husband Tom Christle; and daughter-in-law Christine Christle, along with many other friends and relatives. She is survived by her children Thomas Christle, Diane Christle, and David Christle; her grandchildren Maggi and Brian Haines and their son James; Justin and Emily Christle; Cory and Krissy Christle; Samantha Workman and her son Caiden Workman; Katie Christle and fiancŽ Terry McDonald; and her brother- and sister-in-law Keith and Sandy Deadrick, as well as nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.


Mary Cushman, 79, Paynesville

Mary J. Cushman, 79, formerly of Paynesville, died on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, at the Rose Arbor and Wildflower Lodge in Maple Grove.Ê A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, Jan. 31, 2022, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Paynesville.ÊBurial was at the church cemetery.Ê In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for a later designation. Services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home in Paynesville:Êwww.hafh.org. Mary Jane Cushman was born on Jan. 26, 1943, in Richmond, Minn., the daughter of Gilbert and Betty (Karnitschnig) Quarfot.Ê She grew up in the Hawick and Paynesville areas, where she attended a small country school in Hawick and went on to graduate from Paynesville High School with the Class of 1962.ÊIn 1961 Mary was crowned Miss Paynesville for the first Town and Country Days celebration.Ê Mary was able to travel some in her life living in Hawaii for three years while married to James Boyle. It was in Hawaii that she developed a passion for swimming and golfing.Ê Mary returned to Minnesota where she was married to Robert (Bob) Cushman on June 27, 1979. They made their home on Hudson Street in Paynesville for many years before moving to Aldon Park for 20 years.Ê Mary always kept busy with her family and work. She worked as a realtor and sold Avon but was best known as a jewelry salesperson for JC Penney's, where she worked for over 25 years.Ê After a couple of years on the job, she became the #1 salesperson for JC Penney and kept that title for 20 years. But without a doubt, her favorite job was being a babysitter to her grandchildren Brice and Kelly. In her free time, Mary loved biking, walking, golfing, bird watching and experiencing nature, spending time with her family, and having coffee with her friends. Mary is survived by her children, Troy Boyle (Laurie), Jodi Cushman-Purcell (Bruce), Mark Cushman (Becky), and Rebecca Cushman; grandchildren:Ê Megan Pingry, Jordan Beecham, Brice, Boyle, and Kelly Boyle; great-grandchildren: Rylan Pingry, Kyrie Beecham, and Amarie Beecham; brother, Tom Quarfot; and cousin, Linda Paulson (Ted); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.Ê Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; brother, William; and other close relatives including, Harold, Kate, and Gary Paulson.



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