Rena Jeanette (Burda) Osbourn passed away at her home in Hemet, California on December 27, 2013 at the age of 95 after a short bout with cancer. She was born on February 5, 1918 in Harris, Minnesota. She attended Reed School Dist.#33 country school and graduated from North Branch High School. She worked in Minneapolis until she moved to California in 1941, residing in Blythe until moving to Hemet in 1999.
Rena was preceded in death by her husband, Roy; parents, Henry and Mabel Burda; three brothers, Clarence, Floyd and Harold Burda; and one sister, Gladys Goldbloom.
She is survived by her son, Roy of Hemet, California; sister Evelyn (Ward) Nyland of Braham; many nieces and nephews; step grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Rena enjoyed her home, family and friends. She enjoyed reading, playing cards and crossword puzzles. She loved sitting by the river fishing at her home in Blythe, California and always had fish on hand ready for a fish-fry. She touched many lives and will be truly missed by her extended family, relatives and many friends.

Judy Nan (Slater) Ziebarth, 70, of Cambridge passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at the Cambridge Medical Center.
She was born in the early morning hours of July 9, 1943 at Mrs. Birchs maternity home to Nathan and Charlotte (Nyberg) Slater. When her older brothers heard they had a sister they said, Yes, mom got us a maid. Judy attended the Moody School and also spent a year at West Riverside School and later Cambridge Schools, graduating from Cambridge High School in 1961. While in high school Judy worked at Anderson Drug and was involved in band, choir, and class plays. After graduation she moved to Minneapolis and worked at First National Bank for a year. She was inspired to go to cosmetology school so she quit at the bank, got her license and worked part time at different shops for ten years.
In February 1963, she married Dennis Ziebarth of Spencer Brook and to this union three children were born. For the most part she was a stay at home mom. She was involved with many committees in the schools and the Methodist church, and chaperoned various class trips and church outings. After her children left home, Judy had several jobs. In 2009 she was forced into retirement and since then has enjoyed volunteering at the Shalom Shop, Meals on Wheels, Cart to Cupboard, Senior Breakfast on Friday mornings, East Central Habitat for Humanity, and Isanti County Food Shelf. She also loved caring for the rescue cats she fostered.
In her spare time Judy liked to read, crochet afghans, spending time wither her children and grandchildren, and tending to her flower planters in the spring and summer.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, son Todd, brothers Charles, Duane, and Tommy, sister-in-law Nancy Slater. She is survived by her son Trent Ziebarth of Granite Falls, daughter Tracie and husband Ron Stoffer of Dexter, Mich., grandchildren Elizabeth and Benjamin Ziebarth, Ellie and Gibson Stoffer, brother John Slater of Cambridge, sisters-in-law Marie Flom Slater of Princeton, Karen Padget Slater of St. Louis Park, Maralyn Marquardson Slater of Bloomington, aunt Delores Slater Nyberg of Richfield, former husband Dennis Ziebarth of Cambridge, as well as numerous other relatives and friends.
A Memorial Visitation was held January 18, 2014 at the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home in Cambridge. Interment will be in the North Isanti Baptist Cemetery at a later date. Memorials are preferred to The Harbor Room, Second Chance Animal Rescue, or The Lil Farm. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com.

Eugene Gene Walter Holger, 88, of Hudson, Wis., formerly of Stillwater, Minn., died peacefully January 9, 2014 at Pine Ridge Gardens in Hudson.
Gene was born June 11, 1925 to Nels and Sylvia (Beers) Holger in Braham, Minn. He grew up on the family farm in Braham. While working for Maple Island Creamery in Stillwater, Minn., he was introduced to Margaret Underhill. The two were united in marriage on July 15, 1950. This marriage would be blessed with three children, Gayle, Roger and Jerry. The Holger family settled in Stillwater and Gene took on work at Northwestern Oil Refinery in St. Paul Park (now Marathon Oil). He would work there until the late 1980s when he retired as a supervisor. After retirement, Gene and Margaret remained in Stillwater, close to their friends and family. Margaret passed away in 2006 and in 2010 Gene moved to Pine Ridge Gardens due to health issues.
Gene was known as a tinkerer. At the least, a Jack of all Trades. He enjoyed everything from painting, to woodworking, car restoration, small engine repair and golf.
Gene is survived by his children, Gayle (Bill) Parisho of Blackwood, N.J., Roger (Susan) Holger of Stillwater, Minn. and Jerry (Julie) Holger of Hammond, Wis.; grandchildren, Matthew (Amber) Holger of Hudson, Wis., Jonathan (Nichole) Holger of New Richmond, Wis. and Eric Holger of Hammond, Wis.; 6 great-grandchildren, siblings, Norma Moulton of Rush City, Minn. and Karen (Forrest) Hutchinson of Moreno Valley, Calif.; as well as other relatives and dear friends.
Gene is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; parents, Nels and Sylvia Holger and sisters, Lois, Leila and Ilo.
Services for Gene will be held privately. Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Stillwater, Minn. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be donated to Pine Ridge Gardens – Memory Care and Lakeview Hospice in Genes Memory. Services are in the care of the OConnell Funeral Home – Hudson Chapel.

Viola May Nordeen, of Rush City, formerly of Braham, passed away Monday, January 13, 2014 at the Golden Living Center in Rush City. A long-time breast cancer survivor, she was 91-years-old.
Viola, lovingly known as May, was born May 6, 1922 in Chicago to parents Harry and Elizabeth (Speed) Gibson. She attended school in Chicago, graduating in 1940. After high school, she lived in Crete, Ill. for a few years before joining the United States Navy. After her discharge in November of 1945 she returned to Crete where she started her own beauty shop. She was proud of her military service and was a member of the Cambridge American Legion.
In 1972, May was united in marriage to Laurel Chip Nordeen in Rush Point, Minn. May and Chip lived on the family farm north of Braham. May worked as a beautician at the beauty salon in Braham until it closed and then worked as a beautician at Park Manor for many years. She also worked in Mora at Amaco in the plastic department, at Schiller Globe, the Inn in Hinckley and Walmart.
May was a volunteer driver transporting people to and from medical appointments for a number of years. In the mid-80s May thought there was a need for a thrift store in Braham with the proceeds from sales going to support the community. She worked endlessly to see it come to fruition. May solicited various organizations for start-up funds and went to the pastors asking for help finding volunteers to work at the store. In July of 1989 her dream came true, Tusen Tack opened in a little store on the main street which they outgrew in a short time. May then approached the bank about a loan to purchase the vacant grocery store on the main street. When May applied for the loan the bankers told her a man would have to co-sign the loan, so she found one who evidently also believed in the project and was willing to be a co-signer. She was especially proud of the role she played in bringing TusenTack to Braham and volunteered there as long as her health permitted.
May loved to spend time outdoors; especially fishing with Chip. She was a very good cook and enjoyed preparing meals for family and friends, a talented seamstress and late in life took a class in painting and completed many beautiful pictures.
May is preceded in death by her parents, husband Chip, brothers Ed and Harry, sister Katherine, brothers and sisters-in-law John Nordeen, Evelyn Johnson, Kermit Nordeen, Marjorie House, Merle Nordeen, and Phyllis Lammi.
She is survived by special niece, Georgie Anne Stephanson of Anaheim, Calif., brothers-in-law, Jim (Carole) Nordeen of Cambridge; Duane Nordeen of Chicago, sisters-in-law Elaine (Jerry) Stoeckel of Minneapolis, Frances Nordeen of Braham; several nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
A graveside service and burial will take place in the spring.

Dean Robert Allen, 77, of Cambridge, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing.
He was born Dec. 10, 1936 in Evansville, Wis. to Alton and Berneeta Allen. Dean taught school and coached football several years in Cambridge.
Dean is survived by his wife Lynn of Cambridge, his daughter Carrie of Ketchikan, Alaska and his son Bryan (Katie) grandchildren Benjamin and Mollie of Mahtomedi, as well as many other relatives and friends. The family requests no flowers be given. Memorials would be appreciated and will be used to defray costs incurred while Dean was hospitalized in San Diego, Calif. A Memorial Visitation will be held at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home in Cambridge from 4-7 pm. on Friday, January 24, 2014. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com.

Edna Lavern (Peterson) Gustafson of Braham, Minn. passed away at the age of 90 on January 17, 2014 at St. Claire Living Community in Mora, Minn.
Edna was born Feb. 17, 1923 at home in Grass Lake Township, Kanabec County, Minnesota to Malker and Hulda Peterson. She grew up on the family farm, the fifth of six children. Both parents passed away within six months of each other when Edna was five years of age. Her Aunt, Ada Peterson, selflessly stepped in and continued to care for the six children (aged infant to 16 years), making it possible for them to remain at home.
Ednas faith in God was very important to her. She was baptized May 13, 1923 and confirmed May 8, 1938 at Braham Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she remained a lifetime member.
She was educated through the eighth grade at Windom Country School in Grass Lake Township and continued her schooling at Braham High School, where she graduated. Following graduation she remained on the family farm. She began working at the Braham Hospital as a nurses aid, continuing to work there for several years. This was a perfect fit for her, as she was a very caring person.
Edna married Theodore Gustafson on March 3, 1951. To their union two sons were born: Steven and Michael. Glad to be a mom, Edna chose to stay home and raise her boys for several years before returning to work at the hospital until it closed in 1974. Ted and Edna especially enjoyed spending time with friends and family, and taking trips up North. Ted passed away on March 8, 1973.
Although retiring from her job at the hospital, Edna continued to work hard on the family farm. She greatly enjoyed volunteering at church, having coffee guests over to visit (with friends and family alike), going to hospital picnic reunions, playing her organ and singing. Edna also really looked forward to helping at blood pressure clinics and the blood mobile. Edna was very proud of donating blood, earning her 10 gallon pin.
In 2009, Edna entered the St. Clare Living Community in Mora and quickly made many new friends. Edna discovered in herself a new skill in yodeling taught to her by Marie Grundberg. Edna spent the next few years here enjoying crafts, worship time, playing bingo and other games with a community of friends until she went up to heaven to be with Jesus and dance the streets of gold.
Edna was preceded in death by her parents, Aunt Ada, two brothers: Roy Peterson and Earl Peterson; two sisters: Ruth Farah and Fern Soderstrom, along with several other relatives.
Edna is survived by: one brother, Carl; two sons: Steven (wife Julie) and Michael (special friend Karen Strom); three grand-daughters: Stephanie (Jeremy) Lyon, Kaylynn (Brian) Fiedler, Keri (Michael) Doble; eight great-grand-children: Brandon, Michaela, and Isaiah Fiedler, Brayden, Ella, and Tanner Doble, Emily and Melanie Lyon; nieces, other relatives and many friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Funeral Service was held Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at Braham Evangelical Lutheran Church with Rev. Rich Chronis officiating. Music was provided by Marie Grundberg and Ruth Grundyson. Casket Bearers were Stephanie Lyon, Jeremy Lyon, Kaylynn Fiedler, Brian Fiedler, Keri Doble, Michael Doble, Brandon Fiedler, and Braydon Doble. Her final resting place will be at Rice Lake Cemetery in Braham, Minn.

On August 13, 1928, a son was born to Arthur and Pauline Christensen that they named Donald Arthur. Born at home on the farm his grandparents homesteaded in 1894, it remains in the family today close to a little town of Lucan in Redwood County, Minnesota. Donald Don was baptized at the Lutheran Church in Lucan and grew up in this area attending the local schools.
As a young adult, Don worked in road construction, maintained buildings and a lake home for a Redwood businessman until his country called him to serve in the Korean Conflict.
Upon returning home from Korea, Don farmed in Vesta, Minnesota close to Lucan. Through his sister Jean, he met his future wife, VelJean Jean West and they were married May 15, 1954 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rush Point. Don and VelJean moved to Minneapolis where Don started a career of 36 years at Northern Ordinance or FMC as it is now known. They started their family in Minneapolis with a son David Arthur and after a move to Coon Rapids added a daughter Debra Ann and son Dean Arnold. He was not the fondest of living in the city, but loved the clean air and the openness of country living. Don kept himself busy, not only with his family and job, but by doing sod delivery and trapping snapping turtles in the Mississippi river.
Within a few years the family moved to Rush City, Minn. and shortly thereafter purchased a small farm west of the Rush Point store. It was at this time Douglas Allen was added to the family.
Now, along with the daily commute to Fridley and the time spent working the farm, Don still made time to spend with family and friends. He enjoyed traveling to visit relatives and friends, whether they lived in Minnesota or anywhere else in the US and Canada. They enjoyed trips in the States, Canada, Europe, Mexico and Japan.
Don was an active member at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church, A lifetime member of the VFW Grothe Jacobson Post #6692 in Rush City, Second (Indianhead) Division Association, member of the VFW honor Guard and the Rush Point Leisure Club.
He enjoyed fishing, the time spent hunting, working the soil, coaching church fast pitch softball, watching football and baseball, and other outdoor activities.
Don passed away Jan 16, 2014. at his home in Nessel Township, west of Rush City.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James, sister Lorraine, and his daughter Debra.
He is survived by his wife Jean, Sons: David, Dean (Dianne), Douglas (Rhonda) all of Rush City, grandchildren; JoAnna, Donny, Laura, Curt, Aaron, Ashley, Mary Jo and Scotty. Twelve great grandchildren. Sisters Althea Miller of St. Cloud, MaryAnn Iovino of Hiawassee Georgia, Jean Turgeon of South St. Paul, Cathy (Gary) Allex of Redwood Falls, Brothers Lawrence of Farwell, Gilbert of Lucan, Art (Marcia) of Summerset Wisconsin and Bert (Ellen) of Lucan.
Rev. Keith Kolzow will officiate at a funeral service for Don at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, with a time of visitation one hour prior at the Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rush Point. Music will be provided by Rebecca Sik and Jan Johnson. A military presence will be provided by the Grothe-Jacobson VFW. A spring interment is planned in the Calvary Lutheran-Northview Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Memorial Fund at Calvary Lutheran Church.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service-Olson Chapel of Rush City, Minn.

Donald DeWayne Conrad, 84, of Cambridge, passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West.
He was born Sept. 3, 1929 in Clutier, Iowa to Henry and Emma (Cecak) Conrad. Don grew up in Clutier, attending country school and graduating from Toledo High School.
On Nov. 23, 1950 he was united in marriage to Beverly Dolge at the Catholic Church in Blairstown, Iowa. In October 1951, Don enlisted in the U.S. Army and service in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in July 1953 and returned to Blairstown where they began raising their family. Don worked for a time at Amana Refrigeration while in Iowa and in 1966 the family moved to Cambridge.
Don began working for his uncle at Conrads Floor Center and Beverly worked at Control Data. They would eventually purchase the flooring business and operate it together until 1978 when they sold the store. Don would go to work for Tower Systems in Cambridge and in 1991 they moved to Watertown, SD where Don continued with Tower Systems. One highlight while working with Tower Systems was when he was able to work with General Motors to promote their solar concept car, Sunraycer, by traveling the United States showing the car to many people. Don was proud to say that he was able to visit and work in all of the states except Alaska. Don retired in the late 1990s and he and Bev returned to Cambridge and lived in Pine Village. Bev passed away in September 2006 and Don had been living at River Hills since 2005.
Don was a member of the Cambridge Lutheran Church, the Cambridge Lions Club, Purple Hawk Country Club, volunteered with Meals on Wheels. He enjoyed golfing, watching football and especially enjoyed watching his grandchildrens sporting events. One fond memory the family has is the ritual of when Don would get home from work, kick off his boots, sit down in the chair in front of the TV with the remote, longhorn cheese, longneck beer, bag of radishes, bag of sour cream & onion potato chips and just relax.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Beverly, sisters Delores Boldt, and Kathy Conrad. Don is survived by his children Nicky and husband Ron Schafer of Watertown, S.D., Todd Conrad of Phoenix, Candy Sandquist of Cambridge, Cam and wife Sue Conrad of Cambridge, five grandchildren Aaron (Todd) Smrekar, Corbin Sandquist (Troy Hirsch), Taylor Sandquist, Cameron Conrad Jr., and Joseph Conrad, three great grandchildren Addison Smrekar, Maci Hirsch and Finnleigh Smrekar, sister Darlus and husband Dennis Dunham of Arlington, Va., as well as numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.
A Memorial Service was held January 29, 2014 at the Cambridge Lutheran Church. Honorary pallbearers were Dons five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Military Honors were provided by the Cambridge American Legion Post #290. Interment will be in the Cambridge Lutheran Cemetery at a later date. Memorials are preferred to Cambridge-Isanti Dollars for Scholars. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Calvin Gene Nelson, 56, of Braham, Minn., passed away Thursday, January 23, 2014 at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis.
Cal was preceded in death by his father, Gene W. Nelson.
He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Nelson, sister, Diane Marpe, brother-in-law, Joel and nieces, Stephanie and Leslie, and many beloved friends.
A Funeral was held Jan. 25, 2014 at the Braham Evangelical Covenant Church with Rev. Steve Jennsich, Pastor Harley Swartout and Pastor Jesse Lange officiating. Interment was in the Big Lake Cemetery in Big Lake, Minn.

Melvin E. Chalstrom, 90, of Princeton, died January 25, 2014 at the Elim Home in Princeton. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2 at Salem Lutheran Church in Dalbo with Pastor Sarah Bunge officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Sunday at the church and also from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1 at Strike Funeral Home Cambridge Chapel. Full obituary next edition and also available at strikefuneral.com.

Anna Holine (Rask), 90, of Stanchfield, Minn., went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, January 25, 2014. She died peacefully at GracePointe Crossing Gables West in Cambridge.
Anna was born Oct. 26, 1923 in Isanti, Minn. to Andrew and Emma (Hamren) Rask. She graduated from Cambridge High School in 1941. In 1942, Anna married Wilford Holine while he was serving in the U.S. Navy. They began their marriage in Fridley, raised their family for 25 years in Isanti, and finally retired to their log home in Stanchfield (built by Wilford and family) 38 years ago. They enjoyed 69 years of marriage before Wilford passed away in 2011.
Anna worked with special needs children for Cambridge State School and the Cambridge School District until her retirement. She was very active in her church at Elim Baptist, in Isanti, serving as Sunday school teacher, music committee and choir member, and much more. She carried on her parents strong faith in Christ, instilling those truths in her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her love of music, which included singing with The Grandma Trio, was a big part of her life. She will be sadly missed and forever in our hearts.
She is survived by her five children, Linda (Lee) Hawkinson of Cambridge, Heidi (Dave) Salo of Stanchfield, Sherry (Charles) Bergman of Deer River, John (Karen) Holine of Woodbury, Jim (Jean) Holine of Braham; three sisters, Ruthie Larson of Cambridge, Bette Sundberg of Cambridge, Donna (Burton) Sundberg of Willmar; sisters-in-law, Violet Rask of Denver, Sonja (Ken) OClaire of Bertha, Minn.; 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren, and by many other close relatives and friends.
Anna was preceded in death by her husband, Wilford; brothers, Norman and Alton; sisters, Martha Chader and Elvera Wolff; brothers-in-law, Wesley Wolff, Gordon Sundberg, Dana Larson, Sidney Nyman, and Byron Schaffer; sisters-in-law, Audrey Rask and Sylvia Nyman; grandson, Richard Hawkinson and granddaughter, Rhya Hawkinson.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30 at Elim Baptist Church in Isanti with Pastor Ryan OLeary officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. LaDonna Larson will serve as soloist, Ruth Larson as pianist and Craig Sundberg as scripture reader. Pallbearers will be Bjorn Holine, Anders Holine, Seth Holine, Ricky Hawkinson, Christopher Wojcik and Matt Canfield. Interment will be in Isanti Union Cemetery in the spring. Arrangements were with Strike Funeral Homes.

Linnea (Porta) Anderson, 90, of Cambridge died January 26, 2014 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 at Harvest Christian Center in Isanti with Rev. Tom Porta and Rev. Charles Porta officiating. Friends may gather 1 hour prior to the service. There will be another service at a later date in Iron Mountain, Mich.

Linnea is survived by 3 children, Charles (Kathleen) Porta of Eden Prairie, Marsha (Bruce) Torretti of Iron Mountain, Mich., Tom (Cindy) Porta of Cambridge; 15 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Strike Funeral Home – Cambridge Chapel. Full notice next week.

Melva Caroline Magdalena Ponath Peterson, 89, of Oxlip, Minn. passed away Saturday, January 25, 2014, at Prairie Senior Cottages in Isanti, Minn.
She was born to Albert and Clara (Schrupp) Ponath on June 27, 1924, in Young America, Minn. Melva graduated from Cambridge High School in 1942.
Melva worked for Greyhound in Minneapolis for one year. On May 23, 1943 she married Clements (Pete) Andrew Peterson and from that marriage five children were born, Terry, Marnie, Tommy, Lori, and Cathy. During the war, she followed Clements around to many Navy bases from Boston to Miami. Melva worked many places, including Trailacraft Boat Works in Oxlip, and ASC Office in Cambridge. From 1946-1951 Pete and Melva owned and operated the garage and cafe; in Dalbo, Minn. where many of her customers called her Ma. Clements tragically died in an auto accident in 1963. On Dec. 26, 1964 Melva married Donald Gordon Peterson, they had one son Jimmy.
Melva had many interests. In the late 50s, she was a member of the Bradford Throttlers and raced at the Bradford and Princeton Speedways. She enjoyed bowling and going to garage sales with special friends Toots Semler and Joanne Nash. She was an excellent cook and seamstress. She was famous for her polyester rugs. In December, she would spend days baking special cookies and her oyster stew and meat balls were the highlight of Christmas Eve dinner. Melva and Don did a lot of traveling in the USA as well as Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Puerto Rico. They wintered in Donna, Texas. She was a wonderful dancer and loved to travel to Mexico and dance the afternoon away. With her energy, she wore out many dancing partners.
Melva was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Clara, husband Clements, son Thomas, brother Roland, and sister Lorna. She is survived by her husband, Donald, and children Terry (Allison) of Longville, Minn., Marnie (Lynn) Guthrie of North Branch, Minn., Lori (Terry) Daudt of Longville, Minn., Cathy (Ken) Drilling of Isanti, Minn., and James (Karen) of Isanti, Minn., daughter-in-law, Judy of Milbank, S.D., 15 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, sister Mildred Nimz and brother Melvin (Joan) Ponath, as well as many other relatives and friends.
Funeral Services were held Saturday, February 1, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church of Crown with Rev. Jacob Dandy officiating. Pallbearers were grandsons, Jesse Guthrie, Todd Peterson, Matthew Daudt, Timothy (Franky) Daudt, Adam Aldrich, Kristopher Peterson, Eliot Peterson and Russell Peterson. Honorary Pallbearers were special friend Joanne Nash and granddaughters Leslie Guthrie, Rita Fedalen, Beth Bird, Rebecca Guthrie, Amy Guthrie, Amanda Aldrich and Julia Zohlmann. Interment was in Lakeside Cemetery. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements were with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Grace J. Mattson, age 45, of Isanti died January 26, 2014 at Maui Memorial Medical Center in Hawaii.

Grace Joyce Mattson was born June 21, 1968 in Cambridge to Gordon and Diane (Hendricks) LaRowe. Gracie was raised in the Isanti/Cambridge Community and graduated from Cambridge-Isanti High School, Class of 1987. She grew up and was baptized at Elim Baptist Church in Isanti. On October 8, 1988 she married Dean Mattson and they made their home in rural Isanti.  Grace worked at Rum River Therapy for several years and for the past 13 years in the Isanti County Sheriff’s Office. She took pride in her job at the County Jail. Gracie had many interests. She loved traveling and always looked forward to vacations. She took joy in her house, filling it with plants, pretty dishes and nice things. She gardened and worked very hard to build her house for herself and her son. Gracie was always helping others and never turned her back on anyone, including complete strangers. She loved bird and deer hunting and just hanging out with the hunters. She was also a “thrill seeker” riding her motorcycle and boating with family and friends. She loved nature, the woods and watching the wildlife around her house. Her son, James, and her pets were the world to her.

She is survived by her son, James Mattson of Isanti;  mother, Diane LaRowe of Cambridge; brother, Scott (Kristi) LaRowe of Isanti; two sisters, Virginia (Randy) Westerberg of Cambridge, Elizabeth (Joe) Estepp of Ham Lake; special friend, Mike Babb of Cambridge; former husband, Dean Mattson of Cambridge; and by many other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her father, Gordy LaRowe and her sister, Cindy Johnson.

The funeral service will be held on February 1, 2014 at North Isanti Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Westerberg officiating. The soloist was Cubby Westerberg and Allison Clawson served as pianist. The pallbearers were Andrew LaRowe, Levi LaRowe, Matthew LaRowe, Donny Neisen, Silas Thompson and Peter Westerberg. Interment was in Isanti Union Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Strike Funeral Homes.

Melvin E. Chalstrom, age 90, of Princeton died January 25, 2014 at the Elim Home in Princeton.

Melvin Eugene Chalstrom was born August 24, 1923 in St Francis to Axel and Ruth (Solberg) Chalstrom. He grew up on the family farm near Dalbo, attended primary school nearby, and graduated from Princeton High School. On September 10, 1949 Melvin and Bonnie Northway were married in a candle light ceremony at the West Branch Lutheran Church near Long Siding. In 1959, Melvin took a job driving truck for the Northwestern Casket Company in Minneapolis and bought a home for the family in Columbia Heights. Melvin had a successful career at Northwestern and was promoted to manage production for the entire factory.

The family farm continued to play a central role in the family’s life, and in 1987 Melvin and Bonnie retired and took up residence there once again. As a lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church in Dalbo, Melvin served the church in many ways, including management of construction of a large fellowship hall. Melvin was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Friends and neighbors appreciated the helping hand that Melvin was quick to lend. Fishing and hunting were a favorite pastime. Gardening was another special passion and relatives and friends frequently enjoyed the bountiful produce.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of Princeton; three children, Robert (Joyce) Chalstrom of Cheyenne, Wy., Jean (Mike) Selan of Fort Collins, Col., and David (Theresa) Chalstrom of Princeton; three grandchildren, Chris Chalstrom, Ryan (Cori) Chalstrom, and Jocelyn Selan; great-granddaughter, Amanda (Ryan and Cori’s daughter); and by many other relatives and friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Lucille Lindgren and Carol Manke.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 2, 2014 at Salem Lutheran Church in Dalbo with Rev. Sarah Bunge officiating. Vocalists were Wendell and Laurel Johnson and Roberta Erickson served as pianist. Pallbearers were Ryan Chalstrom, Dwight Lindgren, Jeff Manke, Shawn Manke, Tim Northway and Jim Northway. Interment was in Salem Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements were with Strike Funeral Homes.

Grace J. Mattson, age 45, of Isanti died January 26, 2014 at Maui Memorial Medical Center in Hawaii. Grace Joyce Mattson was born June 21, 1968 in Cambridge to Gordon and Diane (Hendricks) LaRowe. Gracie was raised in the Isanti/Cambridge Community and graduated from Cambridge-Isanti High School, Class of 1987. She grew up and was baptized at Elim Baptist Church in Isanti. On October 8, 1988 she married Dean Mattson and they made their home in rural Isanti. Grace worked at Rum River Therapy for several years and for the past 13 years in the Isanti County Sheriffs Office. She took pride in her job at the County Jail. Gracie had many interests. She loved traveling and always looked forward to vacations. She took joy in her house, filling it with plants, pretty dishes and nice things. She gardened and worked very hard to build her house for herself and her son. Gracie was always helping others and never turned her back on anyone, including complete strangers. She loved bird and deer hunting and just hanging out with the hunters. She was also a thrill seeker riding her motorcycle and boating with family and friends. She loved nature, the woods and watching the wildlife around her house. Her son, James, and her pets were the world to her. She is survived by her son, James Mattson of Isanti; mother, Diane LaRowe of Cambridge; brother, Scott (Kristi) LaRowe of Isanti; two sisters, Virginia (Randy) Westerberg of Cambridge, Elizabeth (Joe) Estepp of Ham Lake; special friend, Mike Babb of Cambridge; former husband, Dean Mattson of Cambridge; and by many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Gordy LaRowe and her sister, Cindy Johnson. The funeral service was held on February 1, 2014 at North Isanti Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Westerberg officiating. The soloist was Cubby Westerberg and Allison Clawson served as pianist. The pallbearers were Andrew LaRowe, Levi LaRowe, Matthew LaRowe, Donny Neisen, Silas Thompson and Peter Westerberg. Interment was in Isanti Union Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Strike Funeral Homes

Wayne passed away peacefully at home on January 9, 2014 with his daughter by his side at the age of 59 years.
Wayne Kenneth Johnson was born at the Community Hospital in Princeton on Nov. 3, 1954 to Carolyn and Oliver Johnson. At 17 years old, he graduated from Anoka High School, and after working one year he saved enough money to enroll into Anoka Technical Institute for the Electrical & Mechanical Building Maintenance Program. At age 19, he proudly acquired a Corvette convertible and Harley-Davidson to which he was very proud. In 1975 he graduated from Anoka Tech and was working for University Hospitals as a mechanic.In the summer of 1972 while attending Gary Lords wedding, he shared the first dance with his (future) girlfriend, Jodi Ann Long. After dating, in February of 1979, he became the proud father of daughter, Randi Jo Long.
While working and being a great father, he enjoyed fixing many types of vehicles and helping his mother, who resided next door, with any maintenance issues. He also enjoyed the company of about six different dogs, the last four being golden retrievers.
On April 5, 2001, Randi gave Wayne close to 80 percent of her liver due to a virus acquired while working at the University. Thankfully, they paid for the successful liver transplant surgery, and they had many more happy years enjoying the activities he loved best which included riding motorcycles, dirt bikes, four-wheelers, and of course riding snowmobiles. In March 2011, he retired from the University with over 37 years of service. He enjoyed retirement life, spending more of that time with family, as well as finishing up some finished projects.
Wayne was preceded in death by his father, Oliver Johnson. Survived by his mother, Carolyn Johnson; daughter, Randi Jo Long; brothers, Ron Larson and Allan (Jo Ann) Johnson; sister, Trudy (Brent) Lee; as well as aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services were held January 14, 2014 at Oak Haven Church. Interment was in the Nichols Cemetery. Online condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com. Arrangements were with the Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge.

Melvin E. Chalstrom, age 90, of Princeton died January 25, 2014 at the Elim Home in Princeton. Melvin Eugene Chalstrom was born August 24, 1923 in St Francis to Axel and Ruth (Solberg) Chalstrom. He grew up on the family farm near Dalbo, attended primary school nearby, and graduated from Princeton High School. On September 10, 1949 Melvin and Bonnie Northway were married in a candle light ceremony at the West Branch Lutheran Church near Long Siding. In 1959, Melvin took a job driving truck for the Northwestern Casket Company in Minneapolis and bought a home for the family in Columbia Heights. Melvin had a successful career at Northwestern and was promoted to manage production for the entire factory. The family farm continued to play a central role in the familys life, and in 1987 Melvin and Bonnie retired and took up residence there once again. As a lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church in Dalbo, Melvin served the church in many ways, including management of construction of a large fellowship hall. Melvin was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Friends and neighbors appreciated the helping hand that Melvin was quick to lend. Fishing and hunting were a favorite pastime. Gardening was another special passion and relatives and friends frequently enjoyed the bountiful produce. Melvin is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of Princeton; three children, Robert (Joyce) Chalstrom of Cheyenne, Wy., Jean (Mike) Selan of Fort Collins, Col., and David (Theresa) Chalstrom of Princeton; three grandchildren, Chris Chalstrom, Ryan (Cori) Chalstrom, and Jocelyn Selan; great-granddaughter, Amanda (Ryan and Coris daughter); and by many other relatives and friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Lucille Lindgren and Carol Manke. Funeral services were held Sunday, February 2, 2014 at Salem Lutheran Church in Dalbo with Rev. Sarah Bunge officiating. Vocalists were Wendell and Laurel Johnson and Roberta Erickson served as pianist. Pallbearers were Ryan Chalstrom, Dwight Lindgren, Jeff Manke, Shawn Manke, Tim Northway and Jim Northway. Interment was in Salem Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements were with Strike Funeral Homes.

Ada Frounfelter, 101, died January 31, 2014 at Shady Oaks Assisted Living in Isanti.
Ada Irene Frounfelter was born Sept. 14, 1912 in Wyanett Township to Oscar and Flossie (Neuman) Erickson at the Peter Larson home. Ada was raised in the Wyanett Community and attended area schools in the Princeton area. On Feb. 8, 1930 she married Edwin Lundberg and they made their first home in Princeton, later moving to Dalbo. Her husband, Edwin, died on Nov. 8, 1963. On Nov. 25, 1964 she married Ralph Frounfelter and they lived on a farm near Dalbo until retiring and moving to Braham in 1973. They moved to Isanti in 1996 to live near her son, Harold and family. Her husband, Ralph, died on Nov. 4, 2000. Ada continued to live in Isanti until moving to Shady Oaks Assisted Living about three years ago. Ada was a very good cook and was called Grandma Pickles by her grandchildren because of her good pickles. She loved the farm and worked on the farm from a very early age helping with the chores and in the fields. She will be deeply missed.
The funeral service was held Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at the Strike Funeral Home Isanti Chapel with Rev. Clifton Hanson officiating. Music was provided by Mary Falk and Shirley Olson. Burial was in Dalbo Baptist Cemetery.

Fern Peterson Gregg, 86, of Huntsville, Ala. passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2014.
Fern was born in Ogema, Wis. to Swedish parents pastoring Ogema Baptist Church. She grew up in Wisconsin, South Dakota and Cambridge, Minn. She received her nursing degree from Mounds Midway Nursing School in St. Paul. She moved to Huntsville after marrying in 1955.
She was a wonderful wife and mother and brought joy to many people in her life. She understood the importance of caring for those around her and served others well. She enjoyed being a part of Christian Womens Club, Child Evangelism Fellowship, Mothers of Preschoolers ministry, as well as various ensembles and choirs. She attended Monte Sano Baptist Church and Calvary Bible Church. In recent years, she attended Ebenezer Presbyterian, Southwood Presbyterian and Rivertree Churches with her daughters.
She had such a sweet spirit. She set a beautiful example of what it looks like to follow Jesus. Although the end of her life held physical difficulty, she maintained her loving, grateful spirit with incredible grace. She will be greatly missed, but it brings great comfort knowing the reality she now has is joy to the fullest in Heaven.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Truman W. Gregg. She is survived by her brother, Don Peterson; her children, Karla Elsenbroek, Kari West, Paul Gregg, Sharon Daughtry, Julie Brown and Jana Warner; and her 14 grandchildren.
Visitation and funeral were held Sunday, Jan. 12 at Southwood Presbyterian Church. Memorials may be made to Child Evangelism Fellowship (www.cefonline.com).