Raymond Peder was born on July 2, 1931, in Montevideo, Minnesota, the son of Ole and Dagmar (Pederson) Stien. When he was a freshman, his family moved to Bird Island where he graduated from high school in 1949. He enlisted into the United States Army Airborne. While serving, he was united in marriage to Donna Baker on August 5, 1951 in Casita, Georgia. Upon his discharge in 1953, they moved to Minneapolis where he worked as a florist for Connolly Greenhouse. They moved to rural Willmar later into Willmar. From 1962 until retiring in 1993, Raymond worked for the City of Willmar - Wastewater Treatment Plant.

He was a member of American Legion Post #167 and Vinje Lutheran Church in Willmar.

His family recalls his enjoyment and love of gardening and the outdoors. Raymond was a jack of all trades, teaching both his sons and daughters to be also. He was an avid sports fan and player throughout his life. Most of all, he instilled in his family how important family truly is and the time you can spend together is priceless, especially with his grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife, Donna; sons, Michael Stien of Topanga, CA; Daniel (and Mary) Stien of Lake Lillian; daughters, Kathleen (and Jerry) Goosmann of Spicer; Leanne (and Mark) Nelson of Willmar; Dawn (and Craig) Marks of Wells; Linda (and Gary) Phillips of West Salem, WI; Stacy Stien (and Dan Schafer) of Lake Lillian; 23 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren; brother, Howard (and Pat) Stien of Spokane, WA; sister, Cecelia Seehusen of Bird Island; and sisters-in-law, Marian Stien of Arlington and Jean (and Dr. Robert) Nelson of St. Peter and special niece, Darlene Seehusen of Benson;

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Patrick, brothers, Harold, Richard and Donald; sister, Rachael Stien, son-in-law, Jerry Krueger and sister-in-law, Carol Stien.

Darlene LaPearle Heairet was born on November 5, 1932 in Marshall, the daughter of Clarence and Verna (Kiel) Buesing. She grew up on the family farm near Ghent. She was baptized in 1933 at the Methodist Church in Marshall and confirmed in the Christian faith in May of 1951 at Hope Lutheran Church in Minneota. She attended country grade school and Minneota High School, graduating in 1951. On June 30, 1951, Darlene was united in marriage to Harland Heairet at the Methodist Church in Marshall. To this union five sons and three daughters were born. They lived in Illinois, South Carolina and Virginia while Harland was in the Navy. They moved to Clara City in 1954 and then to Waconia, and Clearwater. They moved to Regal in 1962 and then to Paynesville in 1973, where they have lived since. Darlene worked for Wally’s GNT for several years and in sales for Olan Mills for 17 years before retiring in 2005. Together, Darlene and Harland were able to share in 54 years of marriage.
Darlene was a member of Paynesville Lutheran Church and the American legion Auxiliary. Among the things she enjoyed were gardening and music, but most of all she loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Darlene died on Wednesday evening, December 21, 2005 at her home in Paynesville with her family at her side. She is survived by husband, Harland; four sons, Thomas Heairet of Paynesville, Kevin Heairet of Young, AZ, Brad (Jody) Heairet of McMinnville, OR and David (Nancy) Heairet of Albertville; three daughters, Michelle (Gene) Lahr of Grey Eagle, Janelle (Mark) Leyendecker of Grove City, and Laura (Luke) Martinson of Paynesville; 14 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Char (Bill) Schroeder of Alexandria, Marilyn (Glen) Hammerschmidt of Ramsey, Carolyn (Curt) Bresson of Victoria and Pamela (Herb) Brehm of El Paso, TX; and two brother, Robert (Pat) Schultz of Tucson, AZ and Ron (Sandy) Schultz of Albuquerque, NM.
Darlene was preceded in death by parents, Clarence Buesing and Verna Buesing Schultz; stepfather, Al Schultz; son, Douglas on May 27, 1973 and granddaughter, Chenille.

Bernice A. Moen, 94, of Willmar and formerly of Mayville, North Dakota, died on Monday, December 26, 2005, at Bethesda Pleasantview in Willmar. Services will be 2:00 pm on Thursday December 29, 2005, at Aal Lutheran Church, Mayville, North Dakota. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call on Wednesday from 3 until 6 pm at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home 1000 19th Ave, Willmar, and on Thursday 1 hour prior to services at the church.

Bernice Adelia (Kaldor) was born on October 16, 1911, in rural Hillsboro, North Dakota, the daughter of John C. and Anna (Bakkum) Kaldor. She attended District #3 Norway Township, and graduated from Mayville High School in 1930. She continued her education at Mayville State.
On October 16, 1932, Bernice was united in marriage to Leon A. Moen at her parent’s farm. This union was blessed with three children. They farmed in rural Hillsboro retiring in 1966. Following their retirement, they wintered in Texas and spent their summers in North Dakota. Leon preceded her in death on October 4, 1984; Bernice continued to live in Mayville until 1997, when she moved to Willmar.

Bernice was baptized in January 1912, at her parent’s home and confirmed at Aal Lutheran Church where she was a lifetime member. Bernice was active with the Ladies Aid, was a Sunday School Teacher and church organist for many years.
Bernice was a member of the Sons of Norway in Mayville and Homemakers Club in Hillsboro.

Surviving are her children, Ardell J. (and Faye) Moen, Willmar, Bernhard L. (and Sandy) Moen, West Bloomfield, MI, and Anne T. (and William L.) Onderdonk, Sioux Falls, SD; five grandchildren, five great grandchildren. Also surviving are her sisters, June R. (and Lawrence) Moen, Hot Springs, SD, and Eleanor A. Ostlund, Portland, ND; sister-in-law, Rose Kaldor, Mayville, ND .

In addition to her husband Leon, Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, two grandsons, Randolph Moen, and one in infancy; two brothers, Lynn C. and John A.B. Kaldor.

Raymond H. Chapman age 93 of Willmar, died on Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at Bethesda Pleasantview Nursing Home in Willmar. Funeral service will be 11:00 am on Tuesday at First Reformed Church in Willmar. Burial will be a Fairview Cemetery in Willmar. Visitation will be on Monday from 5-7pm at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and will continue one hour prior to
the service at the church on Tuesday.

Raymond H. Chapman was born on January 5, 1912 in Donnelly, Minnesota, the son of William and Lilly (Paine) Chapman. He moved with his parents to Eagle Bend, Minnesota and attended WCSA High School in Morris. On November 2, 1933 he was united in marriage to Anna Douma in Roseland, MN. The couple lived and farmed in Roseland, Lake Lillian, Svea, and Renville areas. They moved to the family farm in Donnelly and later returned to the Willmar area
where he began working for Willmar State Hospital as a technician. Raymond also continued farming in Donnelly. In 1974 he retired from both the state hospital and farming.

Raymond and Anna would winter in Arizona. Following Anna's death in 1993 Raymond would continued to spend the winter months in Arizona.

Raymond was baptized at Roseland Reformed Church and was a faithful member of First Reformed church in Willmar.

Raymond enjoyed welding and making things in his shop, he made numerous utility trailers that he would sell. He also enjoyed raising and riding horses and was a member of the Rainbow Saddle Club. Raymond was an avid reader.

On Wednesday, December 21, 2005 Raymond died at Bethesda Pleasantview Nursing Home in Willmar at the age of 93 years. He is survived by his children Lorna (Gene) Hahn of Big Lake, Mavis (Ted) Muller of Little Falls, Sharilyn Schmidt of Niceville, FL, Sheldon (Carol) Chapman of Sunburg, and LeEtta (Dave) Van Ort of Willmar; 22 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Raymond was preceded in death by his sisters and brother: Hazel Erickson, Melvie Crider, Frances Sperr, and Lester Chapman.

Anna Ottine Penz was born on April 29, 1919 in Lake Andrew Township, Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, the daughter of Mikael and Inga Mathea (Harbu) Nyseth who were early Norwegian settlers. Anna attended District 104 School. By the time she graduated from eighth grade, she could do math with greater accuracy and speed than her teacher.

Anna worked on local farms and in Minneapolis during her teen years. When World War II broke out she ventured out to California where she made ammunition for the war efforts. There she met handsome young sailor Charles Penz and they were married on Christmas Eve in Alameda, CA. The couple moved to the Midwest living in Newburg and Brazil, Indiana, and Oakwood, Illinois. They raised three children: Michael C. Penz, who now resides in Cheyenne, Wyoming; Suzanne (and Jim) Fattu of West Chester, Pennsylvania; and Barbara Jean (and Tim) Densborn of Buchanan, Michigan. In April of 1991 Charles passed away. In 1992 Anna moved to Willmar, Minnesota to be with her faith community at East Norway Lake Lutheran Church.

Anna was baptized and confirmed at East Norway Lake Lutheran Church in rural New London where she was currently a member and had been active with women’s circle. She was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Anna was especially gifted at making people and children feel comfortable. She made teddy bears and quilts, cookies and bread, and gave them all away to family and friends. She embraced her friends with a heartfelt closeness wherever she lived. And, at Christmas time, she was sure to remember every child she knew who didn’t have a grandma of her own.

On Sunday, December 11, 2005 Anna died at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar at the age of 86 years. In addition to her children, she is survived by her five grandchildren: Cyndi (and David) Kohler, Waynesville, OH, Alexis (and Del) Doty, Carlsbad, CA, Ann-Jeannette (and Rudy) Vasko, Malvern, PA, Michael (and Khajistha) Fattu, Austin, TX and James C. Fattu, West Chester, PA. She also had five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Anna was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers and sisters.

Mildred Kraft, 95, of Willmar, died Saturday, December 10, 2005 at Bethesda Heritage Center in Willmar. Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Friday, December 16, 2005 at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery in W. St. Paul. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home on Friday.

Mildred was born on November 28, 1910, in Garfield, MN, the daughter of Henry and Ida (Nelson) Halverson. She attended Garfield Elementary School and moved with her family to Ashby in 1920, graduating from Ashby High School in 1929. She continued her education at Moorhead State College, graduating in 1931 with a Teacher’s Degree. She taught in Barrett, Staples and West St. Paul. On December 4, 1943, she was united in marriage to Walter Kraft at St. James Lutheran Church in St. Paul. Following their marriage, they lived in St. Paul. Walter died on March 29, 1978 and she moved to Raymond in 1980.

She was baptized a Pelican Lake Lutheran Church and was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Raymond where she was active with the ELCA, Priscilla Bible Study and the quilting circle.

Surviving are her daughter, LuJean Arends of Willmar; three granddaughters, Tiffany (and Keith) Collins of Kerkhoven; Tanya Arends of Longmont, CO; Tammy (and Chad) Schoep of Plymouth; five great grandchildren, Aaron, Caleb and Grace Collins; Sierra and Cameron Schoep; two nephews and a niece.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and sister.

Sigrid Eliason, 94, of Willmar, died Saturday, December 10, 2005 at Bethesda Heritage Center in Willmar. Funeral services will be 10:30 am, Friday, December 16, 2005 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar. Burial will be in Cloverleaf Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 pm, Thursday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Sigrid Gunvord Eliason was born on October 24, 1911, in Litchville, North Dakota, the daughter of Ole and Inga (Olson) Fostervold. She lived and attended Litchville schools until her 10th grade year when the family moved to Willmar. Sigrid graduated from Willmar High School in 1930 and continued her education at Fairview School of Nursing, receiving her RN in 1934 in Minneapolis. Following her graduation she worked and lived at the State Hospital in Willmar. On June 28, 1936, she was united in marriage to Alford Eliason at the Calvary parsonage in Willmar. They lived in Willmar and Sigrid was the Director of Nursing at Bethesda Heritage, retiring in 1973.

Sigrid was baptized and confirmed in Litchville, ND and was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar. She could be seen and herd in various ways at church serving as Sunday School Superintendent, Girl Scout leader and having been active with the ladies aid and bible studies just to name a few.

Surviving are her daughters, Vianne (and Byron) Brown of Vail, CO; Adair (and Per) Halle of Hell, Norway; Naomi (and Bob) Pederson of Willmar; Jane (and Herb) Paulsen of Las Vegas, NV; son, Jerome Eliason of Osseo, MN; 14 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; and sisters and brothers, Helen Berg; Harriet Baklund; Esther (and Louie) Hanson; James (and Roma) Fostervold all of Willmar; Opal Lief of Owatonna; Wayne (and Wanda) Fostervold of Willmar; Ruth Westphal of Cranberry Isles, ME; and sister-in-law, Margaret Fostervold of Willmar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, on January 8, 1995; parents, daughter, Sandra Creighton on September 2, 2004, grandchildren, Todd Brown and Lisa Halle; brothers, Lief and Harold and sister, Mildred Eliason.

Donald was born on June 4, 1930, in Chatfield, MN, the son of Guy and Vivian (Shoop) McBroom. He grew up and attended school in Chatfield. On November 8, 1951, he was sworn into the United States Marine Corp, serving until November 2, 1953. On September 17, 1954, he was united in marriage to Maureen Peterson at Faith Lutheran Church in Dodge Center, Minnesota. They lived in Rochester, Byron and Blomkest before moving to Willmar in the late 1970’s. Don had owned and operated Don’s Repair Shop and from 1970 till 1992 he worked for the City of Willmar, Waste Water Treatment Plant. After retiring, he spent several years working for Roth Chevrolet.

Don was a people person who loved to help others and enjoyed visiting. He could often be seen tinkering with this or that and could never sit still. Don was an extremely detailed, organized and sometimes even outspoken person who enjoyed a good laugh.

Surviving are his wife, Maureen; children, Linda Leaks of Willmar; Dona Joslin of Mineapolis; Barbara (and Mark) Norbie of Willmar; five grandsons, Nathan (and Monica) Norbie, Nicholas (and Christina) Norbie, Justin Norbie, Michael Hernandez and Jonathan Leaks; two great granddaughters, Taylor and Carlee Norbie; brother, Burt McBroom of New London and sister-in-law, Delores McBroom of Chatfield.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Bill and in infancy, Darien and sister, Betty.

Donovan, otherwise known as Mellie, was born on February 27, 1944, in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of Melvin and Pearl (Beckman) Melin. He was raised a farm near Sunburg and attended Kerkhoven Elementary and graduated from Kerkhoven High School in 1962. On December 16, 1966, he was united in marriage to Sharon DeRoo in Brooten. Following their marriage, they lived in Pennock working for the Pennock Creamery. They moved to Kandiyohi and lived there for 17 years and he worked for Kandiyohi Coop where he drove truck, moving to Willmar in 1986. Since, 1981, he has worked for the Kandiyohi County Highway Department, retiring in 1999.

He was baptized and confirmed at Salem Covenant Church and was a member of First Covenant Church in Willmar.

His family remembers his unending love, support and compassion, having a heart of gold. His sincere and genuineness was shown to all whom he met and will be remembered. This time of year, Christmas, was an especially fun time for Donovan and he cherished all the festivities that he could spend with his grandchildren. He was a loyal husband, devoted father and wonderful, fun-loving grandpa.

Surviving are his wife, Sharon of Willmar; sons, Darwin (and Robin) Melin of Minneapolis, MN; Darren (and Cheri) Melin of Clara City; daughter, Shawn (and Kevin) Fredrickson of Granite Falls; five grandsons, Caleb and Seth Melin, Clayborne Held, Cameron Melin and Kristian Fredrickson; brother, Ellwood (and Janet) Melin of Clara City; sisters, Eldora Melin of Willmar; Arlyce (and Wallis) Klause of Willmar; and brother-in-law, Orville Jacobson of Henning, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Michaela Lynn and sister, Janelle.

In Lieu of flowers, Memorials are preferred to River of Hope Community Center at Hope Presbyterian Church.

Andrew Jerome Leason was born on March 3, 1982 in Willmar, the son of Jerry and Jody (Grosklags) Leason. He was baptized on April 25, 1982 and confirmed in the Christian faith on April 6, 1997 both at Hope Presbyterian Church. He grew up in the New London area where he attended New London-Spicer grade school and Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa High School, graduating in the class of 2000. While in high school he was in many activities, including, football, 4-H and FFA. He continued his education at Alexandria –Tech, Ridgewater and St. Cloud State University. He joined the National Guard in 1999, and served until 2005. He was currently on inactive duty. Andy was living in St. Cloud where he was working for HDL in shipping and receiving.
Andy was a member of Hope Presbyterian Church where as a young man he was active in many of the youth programs. Among the things he enjoyed were riding horse, hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, camping, snowmobiling, and creating things with his friends.
Andy died on Monday evening, December 5, 2005 in St. Cloud, at the age of 23. He is survived by his parents, Jerry and Jody Leason of New London; sister, Sarah Leason of New London; maternal grandparents, Don and Hilda Grosklags of Spicer and paternal grandmother, Pauline Leason of Willmar and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Andy was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Ed Leason.

Forrest Scott Verhoeff was born on February 29, 1960 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, the son of Albert and Elaine (Jensen) Verhoeff. He was baptized on April 24, 1960 and confirmed in the Christian faith on June 6, 1976 at Grace Lutheran Church. He grew up in Belgrade and attended Belgrade grade school and High School. He entered the United States Army on November 24, 1978 where he served his country until his honorable discharge on November 27, 1981. He returned home where he served in the National Guard for four years. He worked as an over the road truck driver for 5 year before working in construction. In 1991 he began operating a sawmill until the time of his death. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and was always willing to help others.
Forrest died on Monday afternoon at his home in Belgrade at the age of 45. He is survived by his father, Albert of Belgrade; two brothers, Calvin Verhoeff of Belgrade and Gary Verhoeff of St. Cloud; two sisters Doreen Kiken of Sturgeon Bay and Barbara Jensen of Brooten and numerous nieces and nephews.
Forrest was preceded in death by his mother, Elaine and grandparents.

Alyce Josephine Olivia Syverson was born on August 9, 1913 in Noonan, North Dakota the daughter of Joseph S. and Anna (Betmyren) Wold. She was baptized and confirmed in the Christian Faith. She grew up and attended country school in Walden Township of Pope County, Minnesota. On March 25, 1939 Alyce was united in marriage to Lloyd Syverson at the Indherred Lutheran parsonage in the presence of Rev. G.O. Forde. Alyce and Lloyd owned and operated a restaurant in Belgrade from 1944 until 1959. They then moved to Minneapolis where she worked at the Deaconess Hospital until she retired in 1980. After their retirement they moved back to Belgrade. Together they were able to share 46 years of marriage before Lloyd’s death on September 3, 1985.
Alyce was a member of Grace Lutheran Church. Among the things she enjoyed were sewing, gardening and traveling with Lloyd.
Alyce died on Monday morning, December 5, 2005 at the Belgrade Nursing Home at the age of 92. She is survived by numerous, nieces and nephews.
Alyce was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, parents, sister, Marie; and two brothers, Lyle and Walter.

Wendell was born on January 22, 1925, in Arctander Township, Kandiyohi County, Minnesota the son of Axel and Ida Louise (Amb) Aasen. He attended District #23 and Kerkhoven High School for his education. He served in the United States Army from 1947-1948, serving in Panama. After his discharge, he returned to the family farm where he farmed with his brother, Conrad. On December 14, 1968, he was united in marriage to Rosella (Thorson) at Kerkhoven Lutheran Church. Following their marriage, they continued to live and farm in Arctander Township, retiring in 1986.

He was a lifetime member of East Norway Lake Lutheran Church having been baptized on February 15, 1925 and confirmed on June 11, 1939. Wendell served in various committees at church and could always be seen at church functions.

Wendell was a working volunteer for Norway Lake Historical Association having dedicated many hours and gifts along with countless recollections. He had been a member of the National Farmer’s Organization and Farmer’s Union. His family recalls his love of woodworking, flying his 1947, J-3 Cub Airplane. He was a ‘stubborn’and ‘tough’Norwegian who had a kind heart and unending commitment to his family and church.

Surviving are his wife, Rosella; children, David (and Nancy) Aasen of Willmar; Allan (and Carrie) Aasen of Sartell; Teresa (and Don) Koshenina of Darwin; Anna (and Troy) Bishop of Big Lake; three grandchildren, Grace, Abigail and Aislynn; brother, John (and Gladys) Aasen of Grand Forks, North Dakota; sisters, Myrtella Christenson of Benson and Thelma (and Mark) Johnson of Minneapolis; and sister-in-law, Jeannette Aasen of Willmar.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother Conrad and brother, Conrad.

Nola Jean Schliep was born on December 19, 1930 in Edison Township, Swift County, Minnesota, the daughter of Elmer and Fern (Mulvihill) Norby. She grew up in the Appleton area where she attended Appleton High School. At the age of seven her father passed away and she later worked as a waitress to help support the family.

Nola was united in marriage to Ralph Schliep on September 17, 1947 at the Zion Lutheran Church parsonage in Appleton, Minnesota. The couple lived and farmed in rural Holloway and in 1960 they moved to Willmar. Nola worked various jobs including: Tempo, Willmar Manufacturing, Central Dairy, and in 1971 became a Deputy Auditor for Kandiyohi County where she worked for 20 years retiring in 1991. Nola and Ralph continued to live in Willmar and would spend their winter months in Mesa, Arizona.

Nola was baptized and later confirmed her faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Appleton. She was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Willmar where she had served on the Alter Guild. She was a member of Willmar V.F.W. Auxiliary where she had served as President, Treasurer, and District 5 President, and was currently treasurer for District 5.

She enjoyed photography, and traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On Saturday, December 3, 2005 Nola died at Infinia Healthcare in Willmar, Minnesota at the age of 74 years. She is survived by her husband Ralph Schliep of Willmar; daughter Wanda (and Wayne) Craft of North Wilksboro, NC; son Russell (and Eva) Schliep of Willmar; grandchildren: Michael (and Nadene) Schliep, Jennifer Ruiz, and John Schliep; 4 great-grand children Samantha, Amy and Ryan Schliep, and Jaclyn Ruiz all of Willmar; and step-granddaughter Melinda (and Will) Coffey and their children. She is also survived by her brothers: Dale (and Joyce) Norby, of Crete, NE, Robert (and Joan) Norby of Naples, FL; sister Clarice Beyer of Benson; sisters-in-law: Jan Norby, Kettering, OH; Yung Norby of Sacramento, CA and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, step-father John Chamberlain, four brothers: Virgil, Lyle, Richard, and Claire.

Vincent was born on July 3, 1917, in Egan, South Dakota, the son of William and Nellie (Gleason) Paul. He was raised in the Egan area and graduated from Eagan High School in 1935. On April 2, 1943, he was united in marriage to Viola Olson in Benson, Minnesota. Following their marriage, they lived in Illinois, Minnesota and Colorado while they farmed, owned and operated a feed mill and managed a trailer park. They enjoyed spending the last 10 many winters in Texas and recently have been living in Duluth.

He was baptized through emersion in 1943 at Benson’s First Baptist Church and most recently was a member of First Baptist Church in Willmar. As they lived in different communities, he had been a Sunday School teacher, Deacon, Trustee, Elder, Chairman of the Board and also had served as a visitation pastor. Vincent was a member of the Gideon’s.

Surviving are his wife, Viola of Duluth; daughters, Barbara Carver of Las Vegas, NV; Karen (and Robert) Peterson of Conroe, TX; Marjorie (and Larry) Tilleskjor of Duluth and son, Fredrick (and Shar) Paul of New London; 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Eileen Therese Sonju Benhardus was born June 2, 1917 in Belfield, ND, the daughter of John and Mary (Dutchak) Andreas. In 1947, she was united in marriage to Alfred A. Sonju. Following their marriage they lived in the Hannaford, ND area until his death in 1955. In 1957, Eileen married George Benhardus and they moved to Minnesota and lived in the Fergus Falls area. For the past seven years, she has lived with her daughter, Dorothy Sonju in Willmar.

Eileen enjoyed crocheting and gardening. She was a wonderful and loving mother, who always put the Lord and her children first. She will be greatly missed by all the family.

Surviving are her children, Ted (Mary) Schuler, Federal Way, WA; Margaret (John) Skjerven, Phoenix, AZ; Dorothy Sonju and Irene Sonju, both of Willmar; Eleanor (Dean) Theobald, St. Paul; Alfred Sonju, Alexandria; Michael Sonju, Fargo, ND; and Stephanie (John) Stober, Goodrich, ND; 23 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands Alfred and George, son, Andrew Sonju and brother Mike Andreas.

Jane was born on September 21, 1917, in Mannington, West Virginia, the daughter of Charles and Lee (Gump) Maranville and her three brothers, Charles Bill and Jack. She lived with her family in Mannington, WV, Newark and Columbus, OH, where she graduated from high school in 1935. She then attended Buckeye State Business College for two years. On May 26, 1942, she was united in marriage to Ralph Eickholt in Mineral Wells, TX. Ralph served overseas during WW II and after his return they lived in several communities in the United States and overseas as Ralph worked as a consultant in the meat packing industry, moving to Willmar in 1976 to work for Jennie O Foods. Jane continued her education at Ridgewater College in 1979, receiving her AA Degree in Liberal Arts with emphasis on painting.

Jane was a volunteer with hospice and wrote several book reviews for them. She also was a member of the Hilltop Homemakers and the Welcome Wagon. While living in the Chicago area, Jane recorded tapes for the blind. She was an accomplished painter and left several works of art of which her family will cherish.

She was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Faith and was a member of Church of St. Mary in Willmar where she had served as the wedding Coordinator for a number of years.

Surviving is her daughter, Lynn (and John) Cooper of Cambridge, MA.

Rev. Philip A. Nelson, 72, of New London, died Thursday, December 1, 2005 at GlenOaks Care Center in New London.  Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Monday, December 5, 2005 in New London.  Burial will be in Lebanon Cemetery in New London.  Visitation will be Sunday, from 4-7 pm at Johnson Funeral Home in New London and continue one hour prior to services at the church on Monday.

Reverend Philip Arden Nelson was born on November 26, 1933 in Madelia, the son of Hebert and Anna (Wilness) Nelson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith at First Lutheran Church of Madelia. He attended Madelia High School, graduating in 1951. He continued his education at Augsburg College, graduating in 1955 and in 1958 from the Augsburg Seminary. On August 31, 1957, he was united in marriage to Beverly Omdahl at Kingo Lutheran Church in Fosston. To this union three sons were born. Pastor Phil took callings to Colombia Heights, Morris, New London and Osakis before retiring in 1994 due to health concerns. Together Pastor Phil and Beverly were able to share in 48 years of marriage.

Pastor Phil loved spending time at the lake, reading, visiting with people, traveling to Scandinavia and Civil War battle fields and spending time with family. During his ministry he especially enjoyed his youth work and had taken many canoe trips with the youth from his churches. He was an active leader in his churches and had held conference offices in the American Lutheran Church.

Pastor Phil died on Thursday morning, December 1, 2005 at GlenOaks Care Center in New London at the age of 72. He is survived by his wife, Beverly; three sons, Bruce (and Nancy) Nelson of New London, Peter Nelson of Monticello and Blair (and Connie) Nelson of St. Cloud; eleven grandchildren; two sisters, Lorraine (and Clem) Gronewald of Madelia and Marilyn (and Lenard) Arduser of Madelia; and brother, David (and Marj) Nelson of Harrisburg, PA.

Delores “Abby”Jean Stutelberg was born on August 17, 1932 in Holland Township, Kandiyohi County, Minnesota the daughter of Dick and Grace (Bruns) Abbas. She grew up in the Raymond and Clara City area where she and attended Clara City High School. On November 15, 1949 she was united in marriage to Wallace Stutelberg. The couple lived in the Clara City and owned and operated “Juniors Café.”Delores was a cook at VSC in Clara City with her sister Jennie and later served as head cook in the Clara City Schools for 32 years. She also cooked for Clara City and Renville Migrant Programs for many years, and sold holiday ornaments for Christmas Around the World.

Delores was baptized at Bunde Church and confirmed at Bethany Reformed Church in Clara City and was currently a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Clara City where she had been active in circle.

She was a member of card club. She enjoyed being a waitress at the Clara City Legion for many years. She also enjoyed shopping at stores, auctions, and garage sales, polka, cooking, sewing, and spending time with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, neighbors, and friends. Her family remembers her love for watching all the activity outside of the window in her home.

On Tuesday, November 29, 2005, Delores passed away at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar, Minnesota at the age of 73 years. She is survived by her children Gary (and Pat) Stutelberg of Clara City, Brian Stutelberg of Burnsville, and Linda (and Norm) Andresen of Clara City; seven grandchildren: LeAnn (and Jim) Essendrup, David Stutelberg, Layla Molloy, Nathaniel Stutelberg, Chelsea (and Alex) McSorely, Jill Lyn Andresen, and Mitchell Andresen; three great-grandchildren: Riley, Morgan, and Liliana; sister Dorothy Hummel of Wyoming, MN; brother Herman (and Betty) Abbas of Sterling, Illinois, and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Tara Lynn Stutelberg; sisters Jennie Tebben, Grace Andresen; and brothers John Abbas, and Garret Abbas.

Vincent was born on September 23, 1916, near Pipestone, Minnesota the son of David and Mary (McMahon) Collins. He was baptized at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Pipestone. His family lived near Pipestone until the early 1930’s when they moved to a farm in the Murdock area. On September 2, 1937, he was united in marriage to Joanne DeVaan at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in DeGraff. Following their marriage, they lived on various farm sites near Murdock, DeGraff and Kerkhoven until 1978 when he retired.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic in Murdock where he was an usher and received the Bishop’s Medal of Service, on March 26, 2000, in appreciation for his service to Sacred Heart Parish for his involvement in the upkeep of the church, often helping without notice, maintaining the church and rectory.

Surviving are his children: Peggy (and Tom) Turcotte of White Bear Lake; Dick (and Paulette) Collins of Murdock; Don (and Kathy) Collins of Spicer; Kay (and Dennis) Stottler of Buffalo; Chuck (and Julie) Collins of Kerkhoven; Donna (and Dave) Quigley of Minnetrista; Tom (and Deb) Collins of Nelson; Gary (and Pat) Collins of Arvado, CO; Mary (and Al) Johnson of Maple Grove; Connie (and Tom) Jeseritz of Howard Lake; daughter-in-law, Rose Ann Collins of Kerkhoven; 39 grandchildren, 56 great grandchildren and one great, great granddaughter; his sisters, Madge Commerford of Buffalo; Veronica (and Evan) Olson of Wheaton and brother, Tom Collins of Dawson. Also surviving are his sisters-in-law, Lucille Collins of St. Cloud and Mary Collins of DeGraff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Joanne on November 12, 1987, son, Bob; grandchildren, Dean Collins and Joseph Turcotte, great granddaughter, Emma Benson, four brothers, Pat, Dave, Jim, Clarence and two sisters, Winnie Dineen and Sally Fredine.

Jerome was born on March 7, 1923, near Grove City, MN, the son of Nicolai and Jennie (Jacobson) Mattison. He received his education in Grove City, where he graduated as President of his class in 1941. He served four years in the United States Army. On April 1, 1944, he was united in marriage to Bette Lou Collier at Immanuel Lutheran Church. They farmed near Grove City, moving to Richfield and to Willmar in 1957. Jerome began working for the United States Postal Service and retired in 1988.

Jerome was a charter member of the Kandi-O-Hi-Lo Chorus and a member of West Central Connection Chorus, Sons of Norway and Senior Citizens. He also was a member of American Legion Post #167 of Willmar.

He was baptized on April 29,1923 and confirmed on June 27, 1937 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grove City and was a member of Vinje Lutheran Church.

He loved nature and enjoyed “teaching”his children and grandchildren about nature. He wasn’t afraid of trying new things and you could often see him visiting with strangers. Jerome was a proud and stoic Norwegian who also showed his gentleness, kindness and humerous side. He truly cherished the times he could spend with his grandchildren and all that they did and you could see the sparkle in his eyes when they were with him.

Surviving are his children, Nancy (and John) Utoft of Tyler; Eric (and Meredith) Mattison of Owatonna; Jane (and Bob) Evans of Balaton; Todd (and Bobbie) Mattison of Willmar; eight grandchildren, Emily (and Scott) Durand, Ted Utoft, Erin, Nick and Greta Mattison, Jon, Jennie and T.J. Mattison. Also surviving are his sisters, Helen (and Al) Skey of California; Liz (and Oliver) Cunningham of Kandiyohi and Maxine Erickson of St. Paul.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Bette Lou on May 16, 2001, and sister, Blanche Baklaich.

Hailey was born on September 23, 2005 in Willmar, MN, the daughter of Gary Peterson, Jr and Tiffany Needham. She was the sparkle in everyone’s eyes, she always had a glow around her wherever she would go and no one could resist her charm. She loved to be held close to feel the beautiful rhythm of your heart beat. She loved listening to music and being sung to, she loved to play bouncy with everyone, play with her rattles and just to sit and watch everyone. She was more than willing to let you know when she wanted in on whatever it was you were doing. There was never enough time in the day to spend rocking and holding and playing with her. Hailey was very precious and was handled with care. Even in death she is still our breath of fresh air. She was and always will be our angel from above.

Surviving are her parents, Paternal grandparents, Gary Sr. and Bonnie Peterson of Priam; Maternal grandparents, Stacey Cornell (and special friend, Larry Harms) of Spicer; maternal great-grandparents, Louis Needham of Ramsey and Brenda Needham of Willmar; maternal great, great-grandmother, Francis Eakin of Phoenix, AZ; aunts and uncles, Danielle Needham, Taylor Cornell both of Spicer; Sandy, Twyla and Paul Peterson of Priam and many more aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Rachel Opal Peterson, paternal great grandparents, James and Opal Dennison and Roy and Florance Peterson, maternal great, great grandparents, Louis and Rachel Needham and Dudley Eakin.

Dave Emberland, 51, of Willmar, died Thursday at St. Cloud Hospital in Willmar.  Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Tuesday at First Covenant Church in Willmar.  Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Willmar.  Visitation will be from 5-8 pm, Monday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and continue one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.

Dave Gordon Emberland was born on December 21, 1953 in Willmar, the son of Gordon and Delores (Jorgenson) Emberland. He grew up in Willmar and attended Lafayette Elementary and Willmar High School, graduating in 1972. On December 2, 1972, Dave was united in marriage to Diane Marie Olson at the First Covenant Church in Willmar. To this union one son, Aaron was born. They made their home in Iowa and Missouri before returning to Willmar in 1975. Dave worked as a Millwright and also for Farm Service Elevators for 10 years. He was currently self-employed as a sub contractor for Gillis and Lange Ag. Together, Dave and Diane were able to share in 32 years of marriage

Dave enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends. He loved to help others and often volunteered his time. He was a member of the Eagles Club.

Dave died on Thursday, November 24, 2005 at the St. Cloud Hospital at the age of 51. He is survived by his wife, Diane of Willmar; son, Aaron Emberland of Willmar; mother, Delores Emberland of Willmar; five sisters, Jolene (and Jeffrey) Hahn of New Jersey, Laurie (and Dan) Shepard of International Falls, Jill (and Charles) Alexander of Willmar, Mary Beckman of Willmar and Jane Emberland of Willmar.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, Gordon.