Obituaries 11/30/23
Celette Couette, 96
Celette J. Couette, age 96, of Maple Lake, died Monday, November 27, 2023, at the Buffalo Hospital.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Maple Lake with Fr. Kevin Magner as the Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Timothy Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Monday and 9-10 a.m. on Tuesday, both at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Maple Lake. A prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral chapel.
Celette Josephine Schultz was born March 14, 1927, in Minneapolis, to William and Lena (Litfin) Schultz. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Helena Catholic Church in Minneapolis and was a graduate of Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis. On November 26, 1953, Celette was united in marriage to Russell W. Couette at St. Helena Catholic Church. They made their home in Minneapolis, prior to moving to Maple Lake in 1955. In addition to owning and operating her own catering business, Celette worked as the lunchroom manager at Maple Lake High School and as dietician at Camp Courage near Maple Lake. She was a member of St. Timothy Catholic Church in Maple Lake. Celette enjoyed hunting, fishing, crafting, and working outside in the yard.
She is survived by her son, William Couette, of Maple Lake, and his fiancée, Trisha Eberle; sister, LaVonne Ollila, of St. Paul; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lena Schultz; husband, Russell Couette; brothers, Sylvester, Gil, Cliff, Gerald, and Francis Schultz; and sisters, Margaret Lehan, Lillian Ring, and DeLores Wiatros.
The casket bearers will be John Schultz, Jerry Lehan, Joe Lehan, Dan Miller, Joe Wiatros, and Dennis Leitha.
Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.
Obituary, Guestbook, and Video Tribute online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.
William Demarais, 87
William “Bill” Demarais, age 87, of Delano (formerly of Waverly), passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at home surrounded by his family.
Bill was born on December 2, 1935, in Maple Lake, MN, the son of the late Roy and Anna Demarais. He was educated at the local Catholic school, and then went on to serve in the United States Airforce. Upon coming home from the service, he met his future wife and best friend, Pat, at a dance in Maple Lake. Bill and Pat were united in marriage on May 11, 1963, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waverly. They were blessed with six children, and later even more blessed with 10 grandchildren and then nine great-grandchildren. He was fondly known to his family as “Pops” and taught them the tradition of having a nickname for everyone, and always cracking jokes.
Despite Bill’s declining health, he never lost his charismatic sense of humor and kept everyone entertained until the day he passed. Bill was a storyteller and an occasional embellisher, but everyone loved to listen and laugh at his stories. He was especially proud of his “Rich Mellow Tones” and graced his family with a song at the end of every visit, always changing the lyrics, which always made them laugh.
Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory are his loving wife, Pat, of 60 years; children – Dave (Jen), of Buffalo, Steve (DeeDee), of Howard Lake, Dan (Linda), of Howard Lake, Brenda (Dave) LePage, of Delano, Kim, of Delano, son-in-law, Michael, of Waverly, “daughter- niece,” MaryBeth, and his faithful pup, Sam; sister, Bernie Vadner, of Silver Bay; grandchildren, Bryan (Kayla), Dalton (Bethany), Rachel, Jacob (Trisha), Tessa (Jeremy), Ross, Dane, Kenzie (Kaleb), Maddie and Olivia; great-grandchildren, Aleks, Charlie, Luke, Kenna, Anna, Claire, Tate, Kalvin, Kashius, and a new baby due in January; many nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and honorary children and grandchildren he had acquired through the years.
Preceded in death by his daughter, Dawn; parents, Roy and Anna; siblings, Mary, Shirley, Donna, Donald, Jerry, Peggy, Anna, and Katie; many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Mass of Christian Burial for William “Bill” Demarais will be held at a future date.
The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com.
Erma Hechsel, 88
Erma Minnie (Lange) Hechsel, age 88, of Cokato, formerly of Howard Lake, went home to be with her Savior on November 21, 2023.
Erma was born on January 12, 1935, to William and Erna (Hensel) Lange. She was baptized into Christ on February 17, 1935, confirmed her faith on March 21, 1948, and joined in Holy Matrimony to Arnold Hechsel on April 5, 1953, all at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake.
She was an excellent baker, quilter, flower gardener, and partner on the farm with Arnie. She sang in the Senior Choir at St. James for many years.
Erma is survived by her husband of 70 years, Arnold, of Cokato; her children, Diane (Glen) Johnson, of Annandale, LaNette (Terry) Thorson, of Howard Lake, Susan (Robert) Moritz, of Hutchinson, Wendy (Jason) Mapes, of Monticello, and Jeffrey Hechsel, of Plymouth. She is further survived by 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Ruth (Martin) Latzig, of Howard Lake.
Erma was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Orvilla Lange, and great-granddaughter, Marlys Johnson.
Christian burial for Erma was Saturday, November 25, with the Rev. Mark Loder and Vicar Michael Speckhard officiating and Luke Dahl as organist. She is buried at the Howard Lake Cemetery to await the glorious resurrection of all flesh at the return of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. James Lutheran Church or School.
Arrangements were made by Swanson Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Howard Lake & Cokato, MN.
Rodger Hessedal, 82
Rodger Calvin Hessedal, age 82 of Montrose, MN, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully at his residence on November 19, 2023.
Rodger was born the son of Herman and Frieda (Ehrich) Hessedal on January 16, 1941, in Red Wing, MN.
Rodger served his country for eight years in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Madison, WI, he met the love of his life, Sandra (Pease). The couple was married on October 23, 1965, at St. John’s Lutheran in Madison, WI, and this union was blessed with birth of three children, Andrew, Peter, and Kimberly.
Rog was a very humble person, serving others from his heart. He served his community by being a Boy Scout Leader to Eagle Advancement for 40 plus years and was a Sunday School teacher at Zion Lutheran in Buffalo, MN, for approximately 35 years and being a Salvation Army bell ringer in the later years.
Rodger began his working career for Honeywell and then became a foreman lineman for Wright Hennepin Electric in Rockford, retiring in 2003 after 30 plus years of service.
He will also be remembered as the guy who picked up trash along County Road 12. He spent many hours walking and always had a wave for every car that went by. Some people even stopped to say he started their day on a good note by being on the receiving end of his wave.
Rodger is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sandra; children, Andrew (Bonnie) Hessedal, Peter (Siripapha) Hessedal and Kimberly (Billy) Sankey; grandchildren, Ridge Hessedal, Nathan and Charles Hessedal, and Abi and Auni Sankey; siblings, Deanna Tiddle, Dorothy (John) Nelson, Kenneth (Sue) Hessedal, and Sylvia Sarazen; brothers-in-law, Bruce (Karen) Pease and Brian (Gale) Pease; also many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Our spouse, father, and grandfather was a humble and quiet cornerstone of our family. We hope you had the pleasure that we did of having him be a part of your life, too. Rog, Dad, Grandpa – you will be forever missed and loved. Those who leave massive voids in our lives are the kind of people that only a few are so lucky to be gifted with in a lifetime – and we were all so blessed.
Visitation for Rodger was held November 27, 2023, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Memorial service was held November 28, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation that continued one hour prior to the service, all at Zion Lutheran Church in Buffalo, MN.
Officiating was Pastor John Folkerds.
Interment was in the Kreidler Cemetery in Montrose, MN
Roger had many charities he actively supported – the Salvation Army Red Kettle, Union Gospel Mission (Saint Paul), and World Vision. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred or spend an hour of your time picking up litter along a local roadway in honor of Rodger.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
William Korpela, Jr., 73
William “Bill” or “Wild Bill” Korpela, Jr., age 73, of Maple Lake, formerly of Hutchinson, died Sunday, November 19, 2023, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, December 1, 2023, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Maple Lake with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Pastor Culynn Curtis will officiate. Burial will take place at Cokato Finnish Cemetery.
William Arthur Korpela, Jr. was born July 18, 1950, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to William Sr. and Martha (Maunaki) Korpela. Bill grew up in Cokato, graduating from Cokato High School with the Class of 1968. While in high school, Bill was known as Mr. Football and obtained honorable mention. On September 19, 1970, Bill was united in marriage to Diana Schulze; they later divorced. Bill worked as a welder for a year before he began his career in IT management. He worked at Prudential for 28 years, followed by six years at General Mills and Pillsbury. In retirement, Bill worked at Target in Hutchinson.
Bill was a member of the Hutchinson Lions and was chairman of the Patient Family Advisory Council at the Glencoe Hospital. He enjoyed spending time in the kitchen baking, cooking, brewing beer, and making wine. He also liked to do embroidery and laser cutting with BD Direct.
He is survived by his daughters, Kelli (Bill) Hoeft, of Watkins, and Katie (Kyle) Golby, of Maple Lake; three grandchildren, Corbin, Mitchell, and Kelsey; nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sisters and brothers-in-law, Janet and Marvin Yerks, Betty and Allen Prosch, and Mary and Emil Dorf; grandson, William Fehn; many aunts and uncles; and nephew, Dale Yerks.
Bill’s grandchildren will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute and Service Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.
James Markeson, 74
James “Jim” A. Markeson, age 74, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at home. He was born on June 21, 1949, in Superior, Wisconsin, to Clyde and Shirley (Wilkinson) Markeson.
Due to his dad being in the Border Patrol, Jim lived in over a dozen states throughout his life before choosing Minnesota to call home. He was proud of his high school football career in North Dakota, which sadly ended abruptly when he sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident at 18. However, his love for football never waned. He could be found every Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday enjoying both college and professional football. Hockey was another favorite as well- with the MN Wild his team of choice.
Jim was a hard worker and valued his tenure with Reuter Manufacturing, Inc. in Hopkins, MN. Here, he made many lifelong friends and enjoyed the many years of the company softball seasons, tournaments, and traveling this team brought to him/his family’s life.
Jim lived life with a spirited passion, evident in his post-retirement adventures on his cherished Harley motorcycle. He took to the open roads of Minnesota, exploring the scenic landscapes and freedom that came with each ride.
An unwavering animal lover, Jim had a special affinity for dogs, who were not just pets but cherished companions throughout his life. Over the years, he welcomed many furry friends into his home, creating a bond that brought immeasurable joy and comfort.
Beyond his love for the open road and furry companions, Jim was known for his strength of mind and his warm, caring nature. A pillar of support in his community, he was a good neighbor, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a friendly chat.
A devoted son, father, brother, and grandfather, Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He enjoyed showcasing his skills on the grill and was known for his homemade soups that brought friends and family together around the dining table.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Shirley Markeson; and niece, Chauntel Swaggert.
He is survived by his children, Cory (Tyra) Markeson, Shelby (John) Mathers, Alecia (Lou) Adney-Hernandez, Nicholas Adney; his adoring grandchildren, Wesley, Tia, Antonio, Tyler, Kamyra, Caleb, Bella, Logan, Austin, Carly, and Alex; sister, Julie (Patrick) Gwilliam; and nieces/nephews, Justin (Lisa), Chelsea, Tiana (Ryan), and Tyler.
In addition to his immediate family, Jim leaves behind friends who will forever remember his warmth, kindness, and zest for life.
To honor Jim’s memory, a private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s memory to Crossroads Veterinary Clinic & Animal Shelter, 2800 10th St. SE, Buffalo MN 55313. Donate Now – Crossroads Animal Shelter (crossroadsshelter.org)
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Steven Szarke, 79
Steven Bernard Szarke, 79, of Buffalo, MN, passed away on November 26, 2023, at Park View Memory Care Center in Buffalo, MN. He was born in Mankato, MN, on February 27, 1944. Steven was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, cousin, and uncle.
Steven was a jovial storyteller who always had a smile on his face and was quick with a joke and a critique. He will be remembered for his welcoming smile, quick wit, and his contagious laugh.
He is survived by his children, Sara (Patrick Andrews), of Hermantown, MN, and Shannon (Brandon Benzer), of Duluth, MN. Steven was a loving grandfather to Alison and Quinn Andrews and Finley and Chet Benzer. He is also survived by his siblings, James Szarke (Dianne Rhode), Elizabeth (Donald Skoglund), and John Szarke (Lynn); his former wife, Patricia Szarke; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Szarke; and his brothers, Joseph Szarke and Roger Szarke.
Steven attended Buffalo High School and went on to graduate from St. Cloud State University. He then pursued a law degree from William Mitchell College of Law, graduating in 1970. Steven had a successful career, serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1971 to 1972. He later opened his own Law Office in January 1972 and practiced until his retirement in 2018.
Steven worshipped at St. Francis Xavier in Buffalo, MN. He was an active member of the church and enjoyed singing in the church choir. He was also involved in the Knights of Columbus and participated in Catholic Archdiocese and Kings House retreats. Steven had a passion for fishing and hunting and was a board member and co-founder of Functional Industries. He loved to travel and was known for his sense of humor and storytelling.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Steven Szarke will be held on Tuesday, December 5, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo, MN. Father Nathaniel Meyers will be the Celebrant. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 5, beginning at 9:30 a.m., until the time of Mass AT THE CHURCH.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN, is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Deborah Vokaty, 61
Deborah Carole Vokaty, 61, of Monticello, MN passed away peacefully at her home on November 18, 2023, after a courageous seven-year battle with lung cancer.
She was born on July 5, 1962, in Buffalo, MN. She attended Hennepin Technical School for Dental Assisting. Debbie was passionate about all of her roles in the dental office through the years, especially her interactions with the patients. She worked in Big Lake for her 30+ year career at Sand Prairie Dental/Park Dental, with her final position as a Scheduling Manager.
Debbie raised her sons in their Monticello home, full of laughter and love. She loved to dance, laugh, and was an avid reader. Her supportive and caring nature was rooted in her strong Christian faith.
She is survived by her partner of 20 years, Joe Hill; her sons, Adam (Laurel) Vokaty, Mitchell Vokaty, Jeff (Jenny) Hill, and Kevin (Beth) Hill; her four grandchildren, Thayer, John, Katherine, and Leland; parents, Jerry and Joyce Paumen; siblings, Jeff (Tami) Paumen, Lynn (Rick) Rowland, Randy Paumen; and countless nieces and nephews, cousins, family and friends.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Friday, December 1, 2023, at the Church of St. Henry, 1001 E. 7th Street, Monticello, with visitation two hours prior to Mass at church. Private Interment at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Buffalo, MN. Arrangements by the Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Chapel, Monticello, 763-295-2918, (www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com).
