Obituaries 09/11/25

Jacob Eull, 74

Jacob J. Eull, age 74, of St. Michael, passed away September 7, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born April 24, 1951, to Elmer and Mary Lou (Altendorf) Eull and lived a life marked by hard work, quiet generosity, and devotion to family. 

Jacob was a skilled plumber by trade and a proud member of Plumbers Union No. 15. He spent his career not only building and repairing pipes but also building lasting friendships. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law. 

Jacob is survived by his siblings, Mary Sibbert, Carl (Mary) Eull and Linda (Tom) Supri, as well as nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his presence in their lives. He will be remembered for his warm smile, steady hand, and the way he made family gatherings brighter. 

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 2:00-6:00 P.M. at the Peterson Chapel in St. Michael. A prayer service at 5:00 P.M., with a meal to follow. Interment on Sunday September 14, at 11:00 A.M. St. Marks Cemetery.

The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Mathew Kasper, 43

Faith, Family, Farming, and Friendship were the guideposts of life for Mathew Kasper, of Sauk Centre, who transitioned to eternal rest with our Lord on September 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, September 12, 2025, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. There will be visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m., Friday at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Spring Hill. Interment will be at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Greenwald.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with a rosary beginning at 3 p.m.

Mathew was born on May 13, 1982, the first child of Earl and Linda Kasper. He grew up on a farm in St. Michael where he also attended the Catholic School until 6th grade. He went on to graduate from St. Michael Albertville High School in 2001. Mathew never shied away from hard work, he had many jobs as a young man, working for local farmers, welding at Standard Iron, and most dear to his heart, working for his grandpa at Dennis Fehn Sand and Gravel operating heavy equipment.

Mathew married the love of his life, Bridget Ende, on January 21, 2006, at St. Walburga Catholic Church in Fletcher, MN. God blessed their marriage with seven beautiful children, Gretta, Sophia, Leo, Lydia, Joe, Clara, and Eli. They worked incredibly hard to create an amazing life together. Aside from his children and his wife, Mathew’s greatest passion was being a farmer and working beside his family every day. He truly was gifted in caring for animals and the land.

In his role as a husband and father, Mathew was attentive, gentle, loving, and fun. It’s important to remember that Mathew also had a very quick wit, with a hilarious sense of humor. He was an incredibly generous soul, a friend who never hesitated to lend a hand.

Most importantly, Mathew led his family with his example of faith and integrity. He was a devout member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Greenwald. Throughout his cancer battle and challenges, Mathew never wavered in his trust in God. He never complained about the cross he was given to bear, only planning and preparing to ensure his family would be cared for when he embarked on the next part of his journey.

While his time with us was far too short, his memory and legacy will live on in all the lives he touched, especially in the spirits of his cherished children. We are so grateful and blessed to have known and loved Mathew. We will hold his sacred memory in our hearts and look forward to the time we will see him again.

Mathew is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Bridget (Ende) Kasper; his beautiful children, Gretta, Sophia, Leo, Lydia, Clara and Eli; his parents, Earl and Linda Kasper; siblings, Patrick (Joni) Kasper, Bridget (Les) Hansen, Richard Kasper, Luke (Kari) Kasper; grandmothers, Virginia Kasper and Bertha Fehn; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his in-laws, the Ende and Brunelle Families.

Mathew is preceded in death by his infant son, Joe; grandfathers, Lewis Kasper and Dennis Fehn; uncle, Gary Kasper; cousin, Maria (Fehn) Tilbury; father-in-law, John Ende; and sister-in-Law, Allison Ende.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Jeffrey Keeler, 81

“Death. To die. To expire. To pass on. To perish. To peg out. To push up daisies. To push up posies. To become extinct. Curtains…And if we bury you ass up, I have got a place to park my bike.” (“Patch Adams,” 1998, one of Jeffrey’s favorite movies)

Jeffrey Joe Keeler, a quick-witted jokester and avid storyteller, passed away August 18, 2025, at the age of 81 from congestive heart failure, with his loving wife by his side.

As much as he enjoyed hunting, taxidermy, and travel, he would rather be fishing somewhere up north on Little Bass Lake or on Pleasant Lake in Annandale, MN.

Jeffrey loved classic cars more than—er, longer than—his wife. That first love began at the Minneapolis Armory Car Show with four-year-old Jeffrey on his father’s shoulders. If you were lucky enough to be in his presence when he saw a hot rod drive by, Jeffrey would rattle off the make, model, year, paint color, and any other details you really didn’t want to know. Through the years, he owned over 26 classic cars—his favorite being a 1957 Chevy Bel Air. It was therefore meant to be that he would marry a ’57 in his golden years.

With his love for classic cars, it was almost predestined that he would become a DJ at those very car shows. He turned that passion into generosity, raising charitable donations for activities (like fishing, archery, and other water sports) and equipment (like a pontoon) for Camp Courage in Maple Lake, MN. Jeffrey also spent countless hours at the camp with physically challenged kids.

Jeffrey’s compassion and generosity was far reaching: donating backpacks filled with school supplies or necessary items for the unhoused, gifting used cars, wheelchairs, gift cards for gas money, or even a few extra bucks…Jeffrey gave until his own pockets were turned out and empty. Over the past 10 years, he gave away over 400 Jesus Calling books to practically everyone within arm’s reach.  

He was preceded in death by parents, John and Lois Keeler; brothers, Michael, John, and Stephen; and sisters, Susin and Patti. 

He is survived by his wife, Christine; brother, Tommy; sisters, Amy and Joann; and his many nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the 21st Century Bank Event Center, 12716 Main St., Rogers, MN 55374.

Jeffrey would tell you how much you are loved, to forgive one another, and that there is nothing love can’t cure.

“You see, George, you’ve really had a wonderful life. Don’t you see what a mistake it would be to throw it away?” (“It’s a Wonderful Life,” 1946, another of Jeffrey’s favorites)

Willard Leinonen, 100

Willard E. Leinonen, age 100, of Annandale, died Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Annandale with Pastor Alex Becker officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until the start of the service. Burial will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 26, 2025, at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls.

Willard Emil Leinonen was born on the family farm in French Lake Township, Minnesota. He was the second-born child of Emil and Rauha (Luittio) Leinonen, growing up amid a large family of seven children. Willard’s education began at the Myrback Schoolhouse, where he attended through the 8th grade. Although he did not necessarily enjoy the school setting, Willard’s thirst for knowledge lasted a lifetime. He was an avid reader his entire life.

At the age of 18, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II- a testament to his courage and commitment to his country. Following his honorable service, Willard returned to his roots, marrying the love of his life, Kathleen Lois Rassat, on June 26, 1947, at St. Timothy Catholic Church. Together, they raised six children, building a life rich with love, laughter, and devotion. In addition to his lifelong dedication to farming, Willard pursued various roles as a machinist, mechanic, and manufacturer.

He was not only a farmer but also an innovative creator; he took pleasure in making many things including spinning wheels that transformed wool into yarn and implementing solar power, celebrating his love for craftsmanship. His skill was also evident in the two homes he built over his lifetime and the many vehicles he built and restored. Willard and Kathleen also managed Pioneer Park, where their shared passion for community flourished. They were avid square dancers and participated in numerous Annandale 4th of July parades. As an adventurer, Willard relished time spent waterskiing and traveling across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and Finland.

He is survived by his children, Steven (Helen), of Annandale, Sheila (Russ) Demarais, of Swatara, Sharon (Marvin) Lucas, of Maple Grove, Gail Sindt, of Vadnais Heights, and Gwenn (Matthew) Elmblad, of L’Anse, MI; 19 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Margaret Groop, of Annandale, and Peter (Judy) Leinonen, of Elk River; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. 

Willard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kathleen; son, Gerald; siblings, Mary Eleanor, Norma, Marian, and Daniel.

Paul Leinonen, Scott Holm, Garrett Leinonen, Nicole Kapinos, Bridget Helwig, and Dr. Lauren Elmblad will serve as urn bearers. 

Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.

Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.

Betty Lundquist, 94

Betty Lundquist, age 94, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Buffalo Hospital. 

She was born on April 8, 1931, in Maple Plain, MN. Parents were Albert and Esther (Anderson) Lindstrom. Betty was an extremely busy farm wife and mother. She later served as a nurse and Director of Nursing at Ebenezer in Buffalo. Retirement jobs included Cub and Lund’s food demonstrator, and Dan and Jerry’s Greenhouses. Her love for serving her Lord Jesus led her to teaching Sunday school and AWANA Kid’s Club. Betty loved time with her family and grandkids. 

Betty’s husband, Vernon, preceded her in death; and sister-in-law, Elyce Arvidson.

She is survived by their children, Margaret (Darwin) Jauert, Carol (Jay) Nelson, Steve (Annette) Lundquist; grandchildren, Heather (John) Senst, Heidi (Nate) Gruenhagen, Tyler (Megan) Nelson, Brett (Kelly Watt) Lundquist, Stephanie (Cody) Hull, Ren (Bishesta Karanjit) Lundquist, Heath (Mindy) Jauert, Lisa (Spencer) DeSmet, and bonus grandchild, Curt (Michelle) Bell; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Harvey (Lil) Lindstrom; and many other relatives and friends. 

Funeral Service was held Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. with visitation beginning two hours prior at the Albion Evangelical Free Church, 11480 5th Street NW, Cokato, MN. Interment was at Riverside Cemetery, Monticello, MN. 

Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.

Cornelius Paulson, 94

Cornelius “Cornie” Lewellyn Paulson

 July 22, 1931 – September 6, 2025

Cornelius Lewellyn Paulson, affectionately known as Cornie, age 94, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and family at the Legacy of St. Michael.

Born on July 22, 1931, in LaMoure, North Dakota, Cornie was raised in nearby Marion. He was one of eight children born to Selmer and Lillian Paulson and is now reunited in heaven with his parents; his brothers; and his beloved grandson, Elijah Paulson; along with many cherished family members and friends. 

Cornie is also survived by the love of his life, Bertha Paulson; and their five sons, Cornelius Jr. (Cheryl), Brent, Ardell (Holly), Don (Sherri), Dan (Melanie); and his sister, Joy. His legacy continues through 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, with #19 arriving in January, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

After finishing eighth grade, he left school to help his dad with work during the depression. At just 17 years old, Cornie decided to serve his country, joining the U.S. Navy in 1948. Proudly serving his country during the Korean War until 1952, gaining practical skills and life lessons that would guide him throughout his life. After his honorable discharge, he returned to civilian life with determination and purpose.

In a storybook moment, Cornie met Bertha Rohrbeck while answering an automatic door service call to a grocery store in Valley City, ND, where she was working as a cashier. It was love at first sight. The two married just three months later, on January 25, 1958. They were married for 67 years and built their life together rooted in faith, hard work, and deep devotion to family.

Cornie’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Freeway Glass in Albertville, MN, and later, C.L. Paulson & Associates, Inc. to carry out his passion in the automatic door industry, which was an industry he was a leader in for over 50 years. His talent for building relationships and truly listening to people made him a respected and successful businessman and salesman for over four decades.

In 1968, Cornie and Bertha moved with their five boys to Albertville, MN, where Cornie would go on to serve as mayor for nine years. Known for his leadership, laughter, and love of community, he left a lasting impact on the town he called home.

Cornie was also a master gardener, birdwatcher, and devoted “putzer” in his garage and shop. His infectious laugh and joy for life were as memorable as his willingness to lend a hand or share a story. He especially loved supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all their activities—he was always their biggest fan.

In retirement, Cornie and Bertha spent 14 wonderful years in Sebeka, MN, before returning to Albertville in 2017. In February 2025, they moved together to the Legacy of St. Michael, where Cornie spent his final months surrounded by the love of his family.

Those who knew Cornie will remember his unwavering dedication to his family, his deep well of wisdom, and the way he made everyone feel valued. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and life well lived.

Family and friends are invited to join us for a Celebration of Life on Friday, September 12, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hanover, MN. Visitation will be held from 9:30–11:00 a.m., with a service at 11:00 a.m. The burial will follow the service at the St. Paul’s Cemetery in Hanover.  A luncheon will follow, and all are welcome to stay and share memories together.