Gerald L. Keocher, 73, of North Branch, Minn., passed away February 26, 2014 at Golden Living Center Rush City.
Gerald was born Feb. 12, 1941 to Theodore and Violet Keocher in Cambridge, Minn. and grew up in Weber on the family farm. He attended school in Isanti and Cambridge, Minn.
In 1962 Gerald married Sandra K. Zellmer. They purchased a farm in North Branch, Minn. where they raised five children. Gerald loved his family and worked hard to provide for them. He was a farmer, as well as working many years in construction. His sons would help with the milking and crop farming while Gerald worked construction. His co-workers nicknamed him the Rye Bomber. Gerald enjoyed farming, hunting and fishing. He shared his passions with his children.
He was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church of Weber.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by and his children Randy Keocher of North Branch, Joseph Keocher of Rush City, Steve (Karen) Keocher of North Branch, Julie (Lee) Wiener of Pine City, Carol (Dave) Stamm of Cambridge, six grandchildren, Lucas Keocher, Jolene (Keocher) Rod, Brieanna Keocher, Andrea Wiener, Cadin and Addison Stamm, two great grandchildren, Mason Rod and Logan Keocher, former wife Sandra Keocher, brothers Darwin (Robin) Keocher, Robert Keocher, sister Beverly Fisher all of the Weber area, as well as other relatives and friends.
On behalf of Geralds family, we would like to thank the team members at Golden Living for the love and support they have shown Jerry. Thank you for always keeping him included in the activities even up to the end. The recliner chair gave him comfort and a way for him to participate. Thank You to St. Croix Hospice for all the services provided. The peace that you brought to our dad is priceless.
Surely Jesus loves fishermen for He chose them for His own, to be with Him and learn from Him and someday share His home. It must have been their trust in God and patience He found rare, That keeps them very near His heart and ever in His care.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Interment will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be Lucas Keocher, Jolene (Keocher) Rod, Brieanna Keocher, Andrea Wiener, Cadin and Addison Stamm, Mason Rod and Logan Keocher.
Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements are with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Sue Ellen Machin, 62 of Cambridge, Minn. and formerly of Rochester, Minn., passed away peacefully February 28, 2014 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Sue was born Sept. 13, 1951 to Ray and Doris Machin in Riceville, Iowa. She received her LPN from St. Marys. She worked at various nursing care facilities and foster care homes over the years, including Madonna Towers and Samaritan Bethany in Rochester, Minn. and most recently, Karcher Foster Services in North Branch, Minn. Sue was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Machin.
Sue will be deeply missed by her son Shawn (Sarah) Machin along with grandchildren Kathryn and Boston; mother Doris Machin; brother Ray Machin; brother David (Sue) Machin; brother Brian (Margot) Machin; sister Becky (Roger) Wilson; sister Jeanne (Robert) Hovda; many nieces, nephews and cherished friends.
Sue, you have touched so many lives with your selfless attitude, hard work ethic, witty spirit and incredible baking prowess. We mourn your premature departure from this earthly world; however are so pleased to know that you are rejoicing in heaven. You will always be in our hearts and on our minds. Thank you for teaching us the true meaning of selfless love.
A memorial mass was held Tuesday, March 4, at Christ the King Catholic Church with Father Don Wagner as Celebrant. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Strike Funeral Homes.

John E. Harry, 95, of Cambridge, died Sunday, March 2, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West.

Full obituary will be in next week’s edition. Funeral Services are pending. Online condolences and services details at www.carlsonlillemoen.com.

Arrangements are with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Virginia M. Anderson, 95, of Cambridge, died Sunday, March 2, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing  Gables West.

Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 8, 2014 at the First Baptist Church in Cambridge with visitation one hour prior. Full obituary will be in next week’s edition. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com.

Arrangements are with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

John E. Harry, 95, of Cambridge passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West.

He was born on December 6, 1918 to John F. and Emily (Wirth) Harry, at Alma, WI. He graduated from Alma High School, Class of 1935. He spent two years as an enrollee in the CCC at Camp Ellsworth, WI before taking over the family dairy farm in the town of Lincoln, Buffalo County. After seven years on the farm, he moved to Minneapolis and took a job with International Milling Co. as a steno-clerk in the sales division, where he met his future wife, Barbara Witherill, whom he married in October, 1948. He then took a position as inspector with Confidential Reports, a theatre-checking agency, which ended with the dissolution of the company. He then went to work as a senior clerk with Sinclair Refining Company sales office in northeast Minneapolis and later went on to work in the sales office of the Ford Motor Company at the St. Paul assembly plant, which he left to become secretary and assistant to the president of Northwest Refining Company at their refinery in St. Paul Park. He left that position to start an offset printing business in his home, and when that did not produce sufficient profit, went to work in the office of the Soo Line Railroad in northeast Minneapolis, where he continued until retirement after 17 years. He then continued to work as an income tax preparer, first with H&R Block and later independently until forced by failing health the discontinue further exertions at age 87.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two younger siblings, Lawrence Harry and Joyce Beers. John is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Harry of Cambridge; brother Leon Harry and sister JoAnn Deneff; two sons John C. (Delia) Harry of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Brent D. (Linda) Harry of Whiter Bear Lake, MN; two daughters, Independence (James) Haverberg of Richfield, and Laurie L. Harry of Minneapolis, MN; three grandchildren and four great-grand-children.

Funeral services were held at 11AM, Saturday, March 8, 2014 at Common Ground: A United Methodist Community with Rev. Jean Rollin officiating. Organist was Dorcie Larson. Pallbearers were Lester Mayo, Dan Joyce, Kevin Eggerth, Brent Harry, Dick Halbmaier, and David Ayres. Interment was in the Cambridge Union Cemetery. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements were with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Virginia Martha Anderson, 94, of Cambridge, went Home to be with her Lord and Savior Sunday, March 2, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West. She was born March 13, 1919 to Anton and Emma Sjodin in Kipling, Saskatchewan, Canada.

Beloved wife, mother sister, grandma, great-grandma, auntie and friend Virginia is survived by her husband of 71 years, Lorne Anderson of Cambridge, Minn.; brothers: Stanley Sjodin of Estevan, SK, Glenn (Sylvia) Sjodin of Bend, Ore.; five children: Elaine (Richard) Wood of Bethany, Okla., Carol (James) Sperry of Cambridge, Minn., Joan (Ralph) Sharp of Edmonton, AB, Norris Anderson of Lake Lillian, Minn., Brian (Melissa) Anderson of San Antonio; 12 grandchildren: Julia (Bradley) Baurain of Caronport, SK, Priscilla Wood of Bethany, Okla., Peter (Jennifer) Sperry of Hugo, Minn., Anne Sperry of Minneapolis, Jodi (Edward) Gardiner of Temecula, Calif., Amy (Mark) Schiffner of Billings, Mont., Heidi Sharp of Calgary, AB, Jonathan Sharp of Grande Prairie, AB, Nate (Brittany) Anderson of Moorhead, Minn., Stacy Anderson of Charlotte, N.C.,Willow Anderson of San Antonio, Leif Anderson of San Antonio; 16 great-grandchildren: Kristen, Caroline, Isaiah and Anna Baurain, Blair, Livia and Erik Sperry, Emma, Meghan, Katie and Andrew Gardiner, Alec, Annika, Marissa and Judith Schiffner, Harper Anderson, and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Her humble beginnings and lack of extensive education did not deter her from undertaking any opportunity that came along to serve her Lord, family, friends and untold others. Throughout the chapters of her life in both Canada and USA and until her last days on this earth, she impacted the world through her loving service, prayers and sweet spirit.

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31: 28-31

The family of Virginia Anderson wishes to extend our sincere thanks to all the wonderful caring staff of Gracepointe Crossing, Dr. Barry Larson, Guardian Angels Elim Home Care and Hospice staff, and all in the church and community who visited. For all the kind help and support of Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home of Cambridge, the family is extremely grateful.

A celebration of her life was held Saturday, March 8, 2014 at First Baptist Church in Cambridge. Interment followed immediately after service at Union Cemetery, Cambridge. Virginias life story and online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com.

Sharon Ann (Hahn) Leibel-Johnson, 77, passed away peacefully March 3, 2014 after a long and courageous 8-year battle with pulmonary hypertension disease.

She was born to Joseph and Margaret (Welsh) Hahn Jan. 18, 1937 in Tracy, Minn. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Marys Catholic Church of Tracy. Sharon attended grade school, Dist. 13 in Amiret, Minn. and graduated from Tracy High School in 1955. She moved to Minneapolis after high school and was employed as a secretary at various companies including Bell Telephone and Honeywell. Sharon was the Miss East Minneapolis Aquatennial Queen in 1957.

While working at Hiawatha Rubber Company, she met William Bill Leibel and they married Feb. 4, 1961. Together they lived in Minneapolis and had two children, Michael and David. In 1971, they moved from Maple Grove to Isanti where they lived on a hobby farm. Sharon worked as an administrative secretary for many years in the Cambridge-Isanti School District. In 1978, she and Bill purchased the Montgomery Ward Catalog Agency in Cambridge and Sharon managed its operation. In 1983, Sharon began her career with the U.S. Postal Service at the Minneapolis Main facility. She was promoted numerous times during her career including being appointed Postmaster at the Braham, Minn. office from 1993-1994. After the sudden death of her husband Bill in 1996, she assumed the role of President at Design Engineering and Manufacturing Company located in Braham, a company that Bill co-founded in 1986. She returned to the USPS and retired as Director and Human Resources Specialist at the St. Paul Main office in 1999.

In 2000, Sharon reconnected with a high school friend LeRoy Roy Johnson and they were married Jan. 25, 2003. Sharon and Roy enjoyed their retirement traveling with their RV to many places in the West and South West United States as well as taking an Alaskan Cruise in 2005. When they were not traveling, she enjoyed the rural life with Roy on the farm until May 2013 when they moved into a twin home that they purchased in the city of Isanti.

Throughout her life, Sharon had a passionate love for music. She started playing the piano when she was 5 years old. She accompanied for the mens chorus during high school and she had won numerous awards while participating in musical competitions before and after her graduation. Later in her life, she continued to enjoy music whether it was playing, singing, or listening at home or at church.

Sharon also had a deep love for her family, especially her grandchildren. She would treasure the moments during the holidays when all of them could spend time together. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Margaret, her brother Neal Hahn, and her first husband William Leibel. She is survived by her husband LeRoy Johnson of Isanti; son Michael Leibel of Isanti, David (Kendra) Leibel of Cambridge, step son Robert (Tammy) Johnson of North Carolina, sister Sheila (Walt) Nelson of Monticello, grand-children Nathan, Vincent, Jack, William, Maria, Kayla, and Anna; step-grandchildren living in North Carolina Brianna, Bethany, Grayson, and step-great grandson James, and many other relatives and friends. Sharons family expresses sincere appreciation and gratitude to the personnel at Prairie Senior Cottages, Isanti, Minn. for their kind and compassionate care in her final days of life.

Mass of Christian Burial was held March 10, 2014 at Christ the King Catholic Church. Interment will be in Christ The King Catholic Cemetery. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements were with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Robert Mike Cahoe, 60, of Isanti, Mn formerly, of Louisville, Ky passed away at home on February, 22, 2014.

Mike was born April 6, 1953 in Louisville, Ky to Robert and Elizabeth Cahoe.

After graduating from Southern High he enlisted in the Marine Corps. He actively served from August 17, 1971- August 17, 1973.

He met the love of his life Linda Tems on June 6, 1978. They were united in marriage on a Fall, October day on the peak of a Kentucky hill in 1978.
They were blessed with the births of their daughter Jennifer in 1979 and son Clinton in 1980. They raised their family in Kentucky until, Mikes job with Ford Motor Company transferred Mike and his family to Minnesota, 1986. They made their home in Isanti, Minn.

Mike retired from Ford Motor Company, St. Paul after 30 years of employment. Later he accepted a position at Branch Manufacturing, North Branch and worked there on and off from 2004-2011; during which time Mike and Linda cared for his parents in their home.

Mike enjoyed many activities including multiple projects around the home, night fishing, gardening, trips to the casino, relaxing on the back porch, most of all he loved spending time with his wife Linda, children and grandbabies.

Mike is preceded in death by brother Ronald and parents Robert and Elizabeth Cahoe.

He is survived and will be greatly missed by his loving family: wife of 35 years, Linda; children, Jennifer (Lucas) Milz, Clint (Tiffany) Cahoe; grandchildren, Hannah, Andrew, Ethan, and Maeghan; sister, Gloria (Mike) Cason; sister and brother-in-laws, Deanna (Mike), Bob (Judy), Laura (Jerry), Sheila (Chuck) and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service was held February 27, 2014 at Faith Lutheran Church, Isanti, Mn with Pastor Clifton Hanson officiating. Music was provided by Shirley Olson. Cremation services provided by Cremation Society of Minnesota.

Phyllis J. Hass, 90, of Crown passed away Sunday, March 9, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables East in Cambridge.

Phyllis J. Hass

Phyllis Jean nee Swanson Hass was born Nov. 19, 1923 to William Swanson and Margaret nee Kilmartin Swanson of Zimmerman, Minn. She was the youngest of six children.

Phyllis graduated from Elk River High School and attended the Minnesota School of Business. Phyllis worked for one year as secretary to the president of American Linen Co. before she was required to move back to help her mother and brother in the family store: Swanson Mercantile in Zimmerman.

Although Phyllis proclaimed she would never marry a farmer, she did. Phyllis married Gordon Hass Dec. 1, 1945 at Zion of Crown.  Phyllis was baptized May 26, 1932 and confirmed into the LCMS church Nov. 30, 1946.

Phyllis’ marriage was blessed with six children. The children were raised to have God as their No. 1 priority. Phyllis and Gordon never forgot to have Jesus bless their meals.

Phyllis learned how to cook and bake after her marriage (as she worked in the store during her years in Zimmerman). Phyllis turned into a great cook and better baker—especially pies and cookies. Phyllis canned and preserved fruits and veggies her entire marriage—even in the fall of 2013.

Phyllis (and Gordon) had a very active social life and enjoyed people – especially their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Phyllis (and Gordon) spent countless hours watching different sports at different venues and on television. Phyllis (not Gordon) enjoyed the casino. She loved entertaining in her home. Her home with the meeting place for relatives on the Hass and Swanson sides of the family. Phyllis always seemed to be chilly and always dressed fashionably. She “loved Christmas” and her home at Christmastime reflected her love of the Christmas season. For many years, Phyllis would make wreaths at Nelson Nursery so she could indulge her family with gifts on Christmas.

Phyllis had many long-time and newly acquired friends and made every attempt to make visitors of Zion welcome. She was an active member of Zion and strong supporter of Crown Christian School.

Phyllis (Wife, Mom, Grandma, Aunt, Friend) will be greatly missed. She was pre-deceased by daughter, Donna, and Granddaughter Baby Girl Hass. She is survived by her husband, Gordon, of 68 years; children: Carol (Leon) Bray, Butch (Mary) Hass, Rick (Nancy) Hass, Larry (Mary) Hass and Joni (Ron) Sundeen, son-in-law, Mike Stephan, 17 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, 10 step- great-grandchildren, 2 step-great-great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Gertrude (Bob) Wood, nieces, nephews and many friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church of Crown with Rev. Steve Tischer officiating. Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, also at the church, and one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Pallbearers are her grandsons and Honorary pallbearers are her granddaughters. Interment was in the church cemetery.  Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements were with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Dolores M. Chilson, 89, of Rush City passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Brask Haven Assisted Living.

She was born on August 27, 1924 in Rome Township, Frost, Minnesota to Oscar and Hilda (Wester) Skaden. She grew up in Frost and graduated from Frost High School in 1942. She went on to attend Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter for one year and graduate from the Swedish Hospital School of Nursing in 1946.

Dolores began working at the hospital in Blue Earth in 1950 and was Administrator and Director of Nursing from 1951 to 1963. She returned to school, attending the University of Washington in Seattle and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 1965.

She was united in marriage to Donald C. Chilson on May 14, 1966. She worked as director of nursing at St. Lukes Home in Blue Earth for seven years. They moved to Rush City, MN in March of 1973 and Dolores worked as director of nursing at Memorial Hospital in Cambridge for ten years until retiring in 1983.
She was an active member of Calvary Lutheran Church, Rush Point and volunteered with Family Pathways for five years.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents; husband Donald Chilson, and nephew George Frandle. She is survived by her children Dick (Kay) Chilson of Woodbury, Don (Ruthanne) Chilson of Rush City, Carol (Bob) Grapevine of Blue Earth, 14 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren, sister Ardys Frandle of Frost, MN, brother Wesley Skaden of Blue Earth, many other relatives and friends. She also leaves behind her loving family of caregivers at Brask Haven: Rob, Jodi, Karissa, Katie and their wonderful staff. They took such good care of her and kept her with us the past six years. Thank God for all of you.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2PM, Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Calvary Lutheran Church of Rush Point with Rev. Keith Kolzow officiating. Visitation one hour prior to the service. Music by Jon Ekstrom and Janice Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Randy, Bruce, Brian and Jeff Chilson, Darrel Hansen, and Chris Eastvold. Interment in the church cemetery. Memorials are preferred. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements by the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Joy E. Sublet, 90, of Belle Plaine, Minn., passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2014 at the Lutheran Home in Belle Plaine.

Joy Elizabeth (Griffith) was born to Marion and Elizabeth Griffith in Harrison County, Taylor Township, Modale, Iowa on Sept. 21, 1923. She graduated from Modale High School in 1941.
She was married to Francis P Sublet Doc Sept. 21, 1943. They farmed in the Modale area until December 1948. They moved to Braham, Minn. and continued farming.

Joy enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. She loved fishing and living on the farm. She enjoyed gardening and baking.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents; husband Francis Doc Sublet and husband Beacher Hillman; son Dennis Sublet; son Michael Sublet; grandson Dana Sublet; brothers William Griffith, David Griffith, Murrill Griffith; and sister Dorothy Wright.
Joy is survived by sons William Pat Sublet and wife Kathy of New Hope, Minn.; Doug and wife Mary of Mankato, Minn.; daughter-in law Mary Sublet of Northfield, Minn.; sister Ruth Peterson of Braham, Minn.; 6 grandchildren, Heather Foss, Laurel Sublet, Angie Blomquist, Dominic Sublet, Aaron Sublet and Jennie Holmberg; plus 14 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, March 14 at St. Kathryns Catholic Church in Ogilvie, Minn. with Fr. Eugene Plaisted and Rita Clasemann officiating. Music was provided by Kris Paulson and Members of St Kathryns and St. Marys Choirs. Casket bearers were John Sells, John Peterson, Aaron Sublet, Dominic Sublet, John Windorski and Raymond Wright. Interment was at St. Kathryns Catholic Cemetery.

Phyllis Mae Nelson, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away at age 79 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, on March 8, 2014.

Phyllis was born Sept. 27, 1934 to Elmer and Gladys (Phillips) Longman in Madison, Minn. She attended Madison Schools and graduated in 1952. Phyllis was a caretaker at heart, so it wasnt surprising that she chose nursing as her occupation. She attended Swedish Hospital School of Nursing after high school, where she met classmates who would become life-long friends.

There were five special roommates who dubbed themselves the Specam-Maceps. (A title derived from a combination of letters in their names.) Phyllis met the love of her life, Gene Nelson, on a blind date in the fall of 1953 a set- up by one of her nursing-school friends.

Phyllis graduated from the Swedish Hospital School of Nursing in September of 1955 and married Gene in August of 1956. They welcomed their son, Calvin Gene, into their family on June 22, 1957 and later, their daughter, Diane Marie on Nov. 26, 1960.

Phyllis practiced nursing at various locations early in her marriage including Minneapolis, Jackson and Benson, Minn. The family moved to Braham in 1967, where Phyllis and Gene raised their children and spent their remaining 52 years of marriage. Phyllis returned to nursing (after a season as homemaker) by working nights at Cambridge State Hospital. Later she worked as the Nurse in charge of the OR at Kanabec County Hospital in Mora, Minn. Phyllis finished her career at Mora.
Although Phyllis loved her job in Mora, her true passions were her church, family, friends, neighbors and hobbies. Phyllis was an avid gardener, raising vegetables, berries, fruit trees, herbs and flowers. She also loved animals and shared her garden with the deer and the bunnies. She often commented, Oh, I dont want to hurt them. I have enough to share. Phyllis loved pretty dishes, tea parties, crafting with her daughter and granddaughters, and quilting. Christmas was her favorite holiday and she went to great lengths to make it special. Her family will remember her special touches: baked goodies, delicious meals, cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning, Goodie bags on the Christmas tree, making gingerbread houses and her spirit of hospitality and celebration.

Throughout her life, Phyllis maintained a positive outlook; she always gave people the benefit of the doubt and believed the best. She was a private person, with a great sense of humor. She enjoyed pulling pranks, loved a good joke and was intensely devoted to prayer and her family.
Phyllis was an active member of the Braham Covenant Church serving in various capacities, such as: financial secretary, deaconess, adventure club treat-lady, and prayer team member.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Gladys Longman; husband, Gene; son, Calvin; brothers-in-law, Robert Nelson, Steven Latterell and Daniel Boenish.

Phyllis is survived by her daughter, Diane; son-in-law Joel Marpe and granddaughters, Leslie and Stephanie Marpe; sisters, Margaret Latterell, Jeannette Rosetter and Harriett Boenish; brother-in-law, Roger Rosetter; sister-in-law, Carmen Nelson; and nieces and nephews

Funeral service was held Saturday, March 15, 2014 at Braham Evangelical Covenant Church with Rev. Steve Jennisch officiating. Music was provided by Sharon Hohn and Kiersten Swartout. Casket Bearers were Tim Marpe, Spencer Beach, Bill Finnerty, Bill Coleman, Paul Sandborn, and Jesse Lang. Interment was at the Big Lake Cemetery in Big Lake, Minn.

Frederick Hans Anderson, age 77, died at his rural Braham home on the evening of March 13, 2014.

Fred was born to Rasmus and Sophie (Beckman) Anderson on July 21, 1936 in Sandstone, Minnesota. They moved to an 80-acre farm near Day in 1939. He completed 8 grades at the Day School and together with his mother and two sisters Glenda and Marilyn, managed the family farm following Rasmus death in 1951. After graduating from Braham High School in 1954, he owned and operated one of the milk routes for the Day Creamery.

In 1959 he was drafted into the U.S. Army, spending part of his two year stint in Germany. After his honorable discharge he attended welding school in Minneapolis and subsequently took a job at a blacksmith/repair shop in Madison, Minnesota. He later drove truck for the Tri-County Cooperative in Dawson, MN.
Fred and his wife Kathryn (Storlien) moved back to his home area in 1987, living first in rural Mora before moving to their wooded acreage near Day.

Before his retirement, Fred worked at Arrow Tank in Cambridge, and assisted with sales for the Classic Stove Company in Isanti. He also served as zoning administrator for three Kanabec County townships.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife Kathryn, stepson Kevin, sisters Glenda (Nolan) Cramer of Minneapolis, Marilyn McGriff of Cambridge and nephew Anders (Charissa) McGriff and two children of rural Mora.

He will be remembered for his quick wit and ready smile, involvement with Siloa Lutheran Church and his interest in community concerns.

A time of remembrance will be held at a later date.

Alice E. Soderberg, age 89, of Forest Lake, formerly of North Branch Township, passed away March 12, 2014.

Arrangements by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge, (763)689-2244. www.carlsonlillemoen.com

Kathryn M. Paris, age 57, of Bethel, passed away March 9, 2014.
Arrangements by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge, (763)689-2244. www.carlsonlillemoen.com

Gregory C. Nelson, 54, of Isanti, formerly of Anoka, passed away March 7, 2014.
Arrangements by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge, (763)689-2244. www.carlsonlillemoen.com

Axel was born on February 8, 1918, and grew up in St. Paul. A devoted Christian, Axel lived out his faith through service to his church, country, and community. He was most proud of his lifelong membership at Trinity Baptist Church and his 85 year involvement with Boy Scout Troop 50. He also served as part of the Red Ball Express during World War II, an active member of the East Side Lions, and a 50-year employee of Norwest Bank.

Axel was extremely loving and proud of his family. He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Shirley, his daughter, Cindy Johnson, and siblings: Eric, Carl, and Doris. He is survived by his children, Rick (Bambi) Olseen and Barbara Olseen; sister, Margie Springer; son-in-law, Bob Johnson; grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A special thank you to the caring staff at Gracepointe Crossing and Allina Hospice Care. Funeral services held Saturday, March 22 at Trinity Baptist Church, 2220 Edgerton St. in Maplewood, MN with interment at Union Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Axel’s name to Trinity Baptist Church.

County Commissioner Larry Southerland, 63, of Cambridge died March 19, 2014 at home surrounded by family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, at the Braham Area Community Center, 655 8th Street SW with Rev. Richard Chronis officiating.  A visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, March 23, at Strike Funeral Home – Cambridge Chapel and also one hour prior to the service at the community center on Monday.  Interment will be in Rice Lake Cemetery in Braham.

Larry was born October 3, 1950 and raised in Braham, Minn. during the baby boom of the 1950s and 1960s, Larry followed his parents’ example of dedication, diligence and hard work in his public service career. He was a dedicated and hard working public servant and worked tirelessly for Isanti County and his community. Following college courses at St. Cloud State he joined the Isanti County Sheriff’s Department working his way up from dispatcher to deputy to investigator, serving 19 years in those capacities.

In 1990, when the then current sheriff retired, Larry was elected Isanti County Sheriff and served three terms (12 years) before ending his 31-year law enforcement career. He continued on in public service, however. In 2002, Larry was elected to the County Board and served as 2nd District Commissioner for over 12 years.

Larry embraced his role as an ombudsman county commissioner, immersed himself in his community work. He had a focus on transportation, public safety and job growth. He was a strong advocate for the multi-county NLX Passenger Rail Alliance Planning Committee, the Local Collaborative, the Isanti County Ag Society (Fair Board), the Braham Community Center and preservation of the historic St John’s Church. In 2004 Larry received the Isanti County Human Rights Award.

During his law enforcement career he was very involved: chairing the Advisory Board to the Lino Lakes Regional Treatment Center, serving as a District Director of the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association, serving as president of the Sheriffs’ Youth Program of MN among his many activities.

He was well known as a charitable person and especially for establishing and operating the Sheriff Larry Southerland Celebrity Golf Tournament for over 10 years, bringing well known sports figures to the community to raise money on behalf of worthy causes. He was a member of Cambridge Lutheran Church, a member of the Grandy Lions, a past Commander of Post 290 of the Sons of the American Legion and a member of the Lone Eagle Auto Club.

County Commissioner Larry L. Southerland of Isanti County died March 19, 2014 at his Springvale Township home following a brief, but determined battle with cancer.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Lorraine Southerland and his sister, Lana Mattson and brother-in-law, Craig Mattson.

He is survived by his brother and sister in law, Lee and Donna Southerland and their children, Leah Southerland and Cindy (Matt) Boe; niece, Crystal Mattson; aunt, Deloris Anderson; uncle, LeRoy (Joanne) Anderson; cousins and other relatives; special friends, Cherri Carpenter and Jenny (Cory) Carlson.

Arrangements with Strike Funeral Homes.

County Commissioner Larry L. Southerland, age 63, of Isanti County died March 19, 2014 at his Springvale Township home following a brief, but determined battle with cancer. He is survived by his brother and sister in law, Lee and Donna Southerland and their children, Leah Southerland and Cindy (Matt) Boe; niece, Crystal Mattson; aunt, Deloris Anderson; uncle, LeRoy (Joanne) Anderson; cousins and other relatives; special friends, Cherri Carpenter and Jenny (Cory) Carlson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Lorraine Southerland and his sister, Lana Mattson and brother-in-law, Craig Mattson.
Larry was born October 3, 1950 and raised in Braham, MN during the baby boom of the 1950s and 1960s. Larry followed his parents example of dedication, diligence and hard work in his public service career. He was a dedicated and hard working public servant and worked tirelessly for Isanti County and his community. Following college courses at St. Cloud State he joined the Isanti County Sheriffs Department working his way up from dispatcher to deputy to investigator, serving 19 years in those capacities.
In 1990, when the then current sheriff retired, Larry was elected Isanti County Sheriff and served three terms (12 years) before ending his 31-year law enforcement career. He continued on in public service, however. In 2002, Larry was elected to the County Board and served as 2nd District Commissioner for over 12 years.
Larry embraced his role as an ombudsman county commissioner, immersed himself in his community work. He had a focus on transportation, public safety and job growth. He was a strong advocate for the multi-county NLX Passenger Rail Alliance Planning Committee, the Local Collaborative, the Isanti County Ag Society (Fair Board), the Braham Community Center and preservation of the historic St. Johns Church. In 2004 Larry received the Isanti County Human Rights Award.
During his law enforcement career he was very involved: chairing the Advisory Board to the Lino Lakes Regional Treatment Center, serving as a District Director of the Minnesota Sheriffs Association, serving as president of the Sheriffs Youth Program of MN among his many activities.
He was well known as a charitable person and especially for establishing and operating the Sheriff Larry Southerland Celebrity Golf Tournament for over 10 years, bringing well known sports figures to the community to raise money on behalf of worthy causes. He was a member of Cambridge Lutheran Church, a member of the Grandy Lions, a past Commander of Post 290 of the Sons of the American Legion and a member of the Lone Eagle Auto Club.
A Celebration of Life 11 AM Monday, March 24th at The Braham Area Community Center, 655 8th Street SW with Rev. Richard Chronis officiating. Visitation 3 -7 PM Sunday, March 23rd at Strike Funeral Home – Cambridge Chapel and also 1 hour prior to the service Monday at the community center in Braham. Pallbearers are Daren Anderson, David Anderson, Tom Anderson, Chris Caulk, Greg Korstad, Trent Rudquist, Dennis Valentyn and Steve Wentworth. Honorary Pallbearers are Loren Davis, Wayne Hansmann, Ken Harder and Ralph Sheppard. Interment at Rice Lake Cemetery in Braham. Online condolences can be made at strikefuneral.com

Robert Bob Gregory Tillman was born Nov. 17, 1951 and was raised in Milbank, S.D. by his parents Gerald and Melba (Siede) Tillman.
He started his schooling in music but finished with degrees in Chemistry, Nursing and Anesthesia.
After searching long and hard, Bob met the love of his life, Nancy Christensen while she was attending UMM. They were married in 1979. They were blessed with 3 beautiful daughters, all of whom Bob believes the sun rises and sets on. They moved to Florida after Bob completed his anesthesia schooling, living in Port St. Lucie for 3 years, then moving on to Cambridge, Minn. where they lived and raised their family for 24 years.
Bob worked at the Cambridge Medical Center. In 2007, he and Nancy set out on an adventure by building a new home in Alexandria, Minn. from which Bob worked doing locums, traveling to help out in hospitals that were short staffed. It was a wonderful experience to live and work in different states while experiencing what each state had to offer. As an independent contractor, Bob worked at Douglas County Hospital and the last 2 years of work were at Stevens Medical Center in Morris, the location of his very first job back in 1974. Bob had a deep commitment for anesthesia, a sincere camaraderie with the people he worked with, and deep compassion for the patients he cared for. Bobs love for his career inspired him to continue working all through the duration of his illness!
Bob poured his heart and soul; however, into the love and relationships he shared with his wife Nancy and daughters. In 2011, Bob and Nancy purchased a gift shop in Alexandria, Minn., and 11 days later he was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer. Although devastated, this strong family love became the bedrock that supported them all through the next difficult stages of life. Quickly Bob discovered the strength and depth of this bond. For the past 3 years endearingly has referred to his wife and daughters as his Wonder Women, as they always stood by his side and loved him so.
Bob was an avid sportsman. He had great respect for the land and the animals that were a gift to all. Many friends and family will remember outings to deer camp, turkey hunting, duck hunting season, Lake of the Woods fishing trips, Boundary Water canoe trips, snowmobiling and other outdoor adventures. All with a sense of humor and no sense of direction.
Bob died Monday, March 17, 2014 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria, MN at the age of 62. He is survived by his wife Nancy; daughters, Brooke (Scott) Tillman/Sievers, Stacy (Ted) Anderson, and Lindsey (Andy) Werner; 7 grandsons; his father, Gerald Tillman; 2 sisters and 3 brothers. Bob is preceded in death by his mother, Melba.
A funeral service was held Friday, March 21, 2014 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Interment was at Geneva Cemetery in Alexandria.
Memorials are preferred to the family to be used for Bobs Pay It Forward Fund that the family will continue.
Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.