Obituaries 03/28/24

Geraldine Borrell, 93

Geraldine “Geri” Ann Borrell, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed this life on March 16, 2024, at the age of 93. 

Geri was born to Raymond and Agnes Vaughan on February 16, 1931, in Waverly, Minnesota. From her earliest days, Geri’s life was rooted in faith and family, values that remained steadfast throughout her journey. In 1948, Geri graduated from Waverly High School and soon after married Clayton Borrell, her high school sweetheart, in 1953. Their life together was a testament to enduring love, celebrating an incredible 70 years of marriage in August of 2023. Clayton was always at her side, even as she took her last breath. Geri was involved in 4H from a young age and also encouraged and supported her children in 4H. She was a talented seamstress and even sewed her wedding dress. Geri patiently taught her daughters to sew, a skill they are thankful to have. A dedicated homemaker, Geri was the heart of her family. She lovingly raised her children and nurtured her grandchildren with love and warmth. She supported her children in their activities and later also enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s various sports and activities. After retirement, Geri and Clayton spent their winters in Mesa, Arizona. Throughout her life, Geri enjoyed going on cruises to explore different countries, golfing, socializing, and playing cards - especially bridge and 500. An all-time favorite activity was shopping. Geri always enjoyed having her children and grandchildren come to visit. 

Geri leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Clayton; her children, Mary (Tom) Truax, Jane (Jim) Campbell, Bill (Jill) Borrell, Dona (Jim) Schlesing, and John (Nicole) Borrell; her 15 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; her siblings, Carolyn (Dean) Custer, and Rosemary Vaughan; and a host of relatives, friends, and community members. 

Geri was preceded in death by her parents, Agnes and Raymond; brother, Daniel Vaughan; son-in-law, Michael Connelly; as well as many other relatives and friends. 

A celebration of Geri’s life will be held at St. Richard’s Catholic Church, 7540 Penn Ave. S, in Richfield, Minnesota 55423, on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 11:00 A.M., with a visitation one hour before the service. A luncheon reception will follow. 

Though Geri may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched.

www.GILLBROTHERS.com, Bloomington, MN, 952-888-7771 

Dalen James Lusti

Dalen was welcomed into the arms of Jesus at 9 lbs., 12 oz. on March 17, 2024.

Survived by his parents, Matthew and Samantha (Hansen) Lusti; sisters, Brinley and Ember; paternal grandparents, Dale and Patti Lusti; maternal grandmother, Jacquelyn Hansen; great-grandmother, Clarice O’Connor.

“Thank you to all who have supported us through this painful time with prayer, visits, food, babysitting, flowers, and so much more. We are SO blessed to have you all in our lives. - Matt, Sam and family.”

Private family services will be held at Buffalo Evangelical Covenant Church in Buffalo, MN.

Interment will be in the Swedish Mission Cemetery in Buffalo, MN.

Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.

Julianne Pelarski, 61

Julianne (“Julie”) Hoffman Pelarski passed away March 19, 2024, at 61 years of age, at home with a courageous battle with cancer. 

Family was with her for her final days. Julie was wearing her favorite bracelet that she received from her mother, as she took her last breath. Julie cherished the bracelet as a remembrance throughout her cancer treatments.

She was born in Buffalo, MN. Julie graduated from Annandale High School in 1981. After High School she moved to Zimmerman, MN, and was employed at various companies in Minnesota as an Inside Salesperson. Julie had several accomplishments in her career and enjoyed working with her customers and made friends quickly. For the last few years, she resided in the same house in Pillager, MN. Small-town community was important to her, as it provided a zest for life.

Julie found joy in various activities such as swimming at her cabin, bird watching, walking, and loved being outdoors. She was fond of her Yorkie dogs, and they were a large part of her life. Julie always had a big smile and big heart to everyone she met. She cherished spending time with her family and creating lasting memories with those who she held dear. 

She is survived by her husband; two children; parents, June Hoffman and (Ronald Hoffman - deceased); sisters, Ronda O’Brien, of Monticello, Rebecca Richardson, of Annandale, Jennifer Hoffman, of Maple Lake.

Please remember Julie with a smile and do something grateful in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests to donate to the American Cancer Foundation. 

A gathering will be set soon in honor of Julie.