Obituaries 12/23/21
Catherine Brobeck, 37
Catherine Stumpf Brobeck, 37, of Los Angeles, California, passed away on November 22, 2021.
Catherine was born in Hinsdale, Illinois, to Barry and Linda Brobeck on November 16, 1984. She graduated from Yale University in 2006 with a degree in Comparative Literature and a thesis about crime and geography in the 1930s Los Angeles novel. She was valedictorian of her high school class, a Gold Award winning Girl Scout, selected to the American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Girls State Program, attended college as a high school student where she was the Editor-in-Chief of Rochester Community and Technical College’s newspaper, attended Summer Honors College at the University of Minnesota, and matriculated to Yale University. At Yale, she was co-founder of Cinema at the Whitney, Co-President of Yale Film Society, President of Yale Drama Coalition, Producer and Assistant Producer at Yale Theater and a Contributing Writer and Critic at the Yale Herald.
Catherine was a writer, editor, strategist, and consultant, who worked with entertainment, non-profits, arts, and healthcare organizations. She was proud to have served as Director of Research for a women and children centered non-profit organization.
Catherine was a prolific writer and podcaster who had also lectured at Cambridge University on justice in literature, and collaborated with the Los Angeles Public Library, amongst other institutions. She is best known as the co-host of the popular literary podcast, All About Agatha and it’s Patreon companion podcast. Hundreds and hundreds of listeners have commented on social media about their personal experiences listening to Catherine on the podcast and how her voice and humor aided them through the pandemic.
Catherine was a storyteller, who loved to read, write, and talk. She could usually be found with a book and phone nearby. She was passionate about literature, current affairs, music, musical theater, art, film, television, basketball, history, geography, infrastructure, and so much more. She could share details that would amaze and amuse. She loved to learn, and there was always something new that she would share with family and friends.
Catherine is survived by her mother and father, Linda L. Brobeck and Barry H. Brobeck, of Waverly, Minnesota; sister, Elizabeth Brobeck, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; uncle, David (Gaye) Brobeck; aunt, Jill (Jimmy) Borel, and aunt, Julie Bray. She is also survived by friends throughout the world, with whom she held exceptionally close relationships. Catherine is forever loved.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and Doris Stumpf and Dr. David and Bettye Brobeck; and aunts, Joanne Martin and Diane Stumpf.
A celebration of Catherine’s life will be held starting at 11:00 A.M. on June 4, 2022, in Minnesota.
The family wishes to thank David and Gaye Brobeck for their kindness and generous spirit, and her dearest friends, during this difficult time.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo, Minnesota, is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Julie Davis, 72
It is with great sadness that the family of Julie Ann Davis, announce her passing on December 12, 2021, age 72, of natural causes at her home in Annandale, MN.
Julie was born the daughter of Robert and Alice (Meagher) Davis on October 12, 1949, in Minneapolis, MN.
She graduated from North High School in 1967, where she was a member of the Polarette’s dance line. She also danced for the Minnesota Piper’s basketball team while in college.
Julie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from American University.
Following graduation, Julie practiced social work, by developing innovative programs for Hmong families in Minneapolis and later with at risk youth in the juvenile justice system. She took some time away from work to serve in the Peace Corps in Thailand and eventually became a realtor-broker where she helped to design and sell homes in the Western suburbs of Minneapolis.
Heeding the call back into social service, Julie had been employed as a social worker during the past 15 years for Wright County Health and Human Services. She worked with families of developmentally disabled children to assist them in their daily life and their transition to school and work. Julie was passionate about the people she served and was greatly respected by her colleagues. She was a true humanitarian.
Julie’s other passions in life were her beloved daughter, Nina, and travel. Julie, Jan and Nina had many world travel adventures. Julie once said that Nina would always be a “child of the world.”
Julie is survived by her daughter, Nina Davis of Annandale, MN; sister, Jan Daniels of Chaska, MN; and brother, Robert Davis of Rochester Hills, MI and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She will be missed by all of us who love her!
A Celebration of Life for Julie will be held Friday, January 7, 2022, from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. at The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, MN.
Private family interment will be held at a later date.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, MN. Online condolences for the family can be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Joshua Engle, 45
Joshua Phillip Engle, age 45, of Maple Lake, passed away on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at The Hennepin County Medical Center.
He was born on May 2, 1976, in Sacramento, California, the son of John and Cindi (McKowen) Engle.
He was a valued employee at Morrie’s Buffalo Ford, where he worked as a mechanic.
Josh enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. He was also fond of cooking and fantasy football. Josh was a wonderful and devoted husband and father and was cherished by his close friends.
Josh is survived by his loving wife, Amber; children, Emily, Mackenzie, Brayden and Layla; his mother, Cindi McKowen; a sister, Nicole (Jason) Mathers; his mother-in-law, Cheryl (Joe) Flood; his father-in-law, Steve (Roxanne) Reining; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Tracey (Matt) Golden, Ashley (Nate) Macchia, John (Raquel) Beckenbach, Taylor (Tim) Thornton and MacCrea Flood; nephews and nieces, Bailey, Brenna, Aiden, Carson, Braelee and Harper; along with other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his father.
A Celebration of Life for Joshua Engle will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at the Maple Lake American Legion Club from 11:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Ralph Faue, 80
Ralph August Faue, age 80, of Buffalo, MN, was lifted up into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 16, 2021, at Abbott-Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.
Born September 14, 1941, the only child of Harold and Anita (Kalk) Faue. He was baptized October 12, 1941, by Pastor O.F. Herder and confirmed in the Christian faith May 6, 1956, by Pastor E.J. Kaiser at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hanover, MN.
On September 8, 1962, he met the love of his life, Diane Carolyn Lieder at a shed dance where they enjoyed a first dance to the ‘Blue Skirt Waltz.’ From that time on they spent many enjoyable weekends dancing, going to the movies, sharing memorable dinner dates, fishing, joining a bowling league, a horseshoe league and playing numerous card games.
On June 26, 1965, Ralph A. Faue and Diane C. Lieder were united in marriage at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Greenfield by Pastor W.P. Haar. God blessed them with two daughters.
Ralph may not have had a college degree, but rather a degree of Wisdom. His common sense and sound judgment allowed him many degrees of satisfaction. Throughout their life together Ralph and Diane bought many cars, tractors and other items. With his ingenuity, much hard work and dedication, they restored them, many times making these projects a family affair. He took pride in everything he did, he was meticulous, organized and expected the same from others.
Over their almost 60 years together, they enjoyed many memorable sight-seeing vacations including Canada, Florida, Nashville, Branson, Las Vegas, Arizona, Colorado and Texas to name a few. Also, many road trips ensued through a great number of states to see the countryside, where keen eyes kept watch for that next ‘project,’ or visits made to various “junk yards” for that ‘missing’ part or rust-free option – including a stop on their honeymoon!
His innate attention to detail allowed him to diagnose, repair, build or make improvements to most anything – Cars – Tractors – Home – a multitude of things. Until his car accident in 1986 Ralph managed the Auto Body Shop at Gould Brothers Chevrolet in Monticello. From there he held a few different jobs including his time at Alpana Aluminum where he injured his back. He also enjoyed farming for many years until his back would not allow it.
Even through the pain and limitations, his inherent determination and motivation allowed him to modify and adapt to be able to continue his “fix – repair – not replace” motto which he thoroughly enjoyed, taking pride in all he did.
He touched the lives of so many and will be greatly missed by us all. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us in your matter-of-fact manner. We send you off to pain free eternal peace.
He is survived by his soulmate, Diane of Buffalo; Daughters: Brenda (Robert) Oberlander of Buffalo, Julie (Daniel) Welter of Plymouth; Grandchildren: Austin and Karissa Oberlander, Benjamin and Elizabeth Welter; Aunts: Verdell Faue-Schleif of Osseo, (Patricia) Kalk of St Michael; Cousins and many Friends.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Anita; Aunts and Uncles: Albert and Delores Heidelberger, Emery and Marcella Faue, Clarence and Jesse Finke, Levi Faue, Albert Jr. and Patsy Faue and Gaylord and Marion Faue; Gerald Schleif and Carl Kalk.
Funeral Services for Ralph Faue scheduled for Monday, December 27, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo with interment at the Hanover Village cemetery with Pastor Ryan Clark officiating. The organist for the funeral service is Sandi Baert. Vocalists Austin Oberlander and Karissa Oberlander singing “House of God” and “The Irish Blessing”; Congregational Hymns: “Nearer My God to Thee,” “How Great Thou Art,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” and “In the Garden.” Friends may call at the Church on Sunday, December 26, 2021, from 4-7 p.m. Further visitation will be held on Monday, December 27, 2021, at the church one hour prior to services.
Honorary Casket Bearers: Austin Oberlander, Karissa Oberlander, Benjamin Welter and Elizabeth Welter
Casket Bearers: Donald Kalk, Gerald Kalk, Dale Pomerleau, John Schalo, Steve Erickson and Greg Findley
The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Eileen Johnson, 71
In memory of Eileen Isabelle (Robeck) Johnson, age 71, formerly of Buffalo.
On Sunday morning, October 24, 2021, we sadly lost our wonderful mother.
Eileen was a devoted wife to Pete. An exceptional mother to: Stacy, Kelly, Andrea, and Victor. A proud grandmother to: Sydney, Madison, and Carson. A loving sister and friend to: Pearl, Jeanette, and Shirley. She was a caring friend to everyone she met. Her kindness and generosity were apparent to all who had the opportunity to spend time with her.
Our mom was the kindest, most selfless person, and we were blessed to have the opportunity to call her Mom. She radiated Love, Light and Generosity.
She left a piece of her in all of us, and in everyone she knew. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.
Please say a prayer for her to be at peace and to walk with us always.
A memorial service for Eileen will be held in the Spring in Buffalo.
Douglas Long, 61
Douglas Richard Long, age 61, of Buffalo, died Monday, December 13, 2021, due to a tragic car accident.
He was born on May 21, 1960, in Minneapolis, Minnesota – the son of Jerry and Jane Long.
Doug was a friendly, kindhearted man. When you called him for help, he would be there, no question. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, playing cribbage with his dad and brothers, watching the Vikings and NASCAR, and fishing. He proudly worked for Junction Towing and Auto Repair for 25 years. Doug referred to them as “his other family.”
Doug is survived by siblings, Steve (Mary Beth) Long, Tony (Wendy) Long, and Debbie Long; nieces and nephews, Chad (Amy), Kelsey (Matthew), Daniel (Katelyn), Mallory (Weston), Tyler (Emily), Brandon (Jadin), Abbey, and Jessica.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Jane Long.
Visitation was held at 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 18, 2021, with funeral service beginning at 2:00 P.M. at the St. Michael Catholic Church, 11300 Frankfort Pkwy. NE, St. Michael, MN. Interment followed at the St. Michael Catholic Cemetery.
Casket bearers were Steve Long, Tony Long, Chad Tilus, Daniel Long, Tyler Long, Brandon Long, Jessica Long, and Adam Weis.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in St. Michael, MN. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Archie Mjelde, 97
Archie Kenneth Mjelde, age 97, of Buffalo, Minnesota, and formerly Silver Bay, Minnesota, passed away December 14, 2021.
He was born on November 16, 1924, in Crookston, Minnesota – the son of Norman and Marie (Sandem) Mjelde.
On December 17, 1948, he was joined in marriage to Corrine “Corky” Orvik at Petri Lutheran Church in Nielsville, Minnesota. In 1956, Archie and Corky relocated to Silver Bay, Minnesota where Archie was employed at Reserve Mine for many years.
He was a sports enthusiast and especially enjoyed watching baseball. He played pool daily and loved spending time with friends and family.
Archie is preceded in death by his wife, Corrine in 2011; great-grandchild, Theodore; brothers, Maurice (Deloris Mjelde Stauning), Vernon, Curtis (Dorothy), and Ira (Marge); sisters, Nelda (Lawrence) Thompson and Inez (Vern) Marsh.
He is survived by his sons, Greg (Marilyn) and Grant (Mary); grandchildren, Ross (Sarah), Wade (Shannon), Beth (Ryan) Huddy, Shawn (Tom) Wisniowski, and Brook (Adam) Youso; great-grandchildren, Christopher, Kwintyn, Gabriel, Mackenzie, Mason, Brody, and Ella Mjelde, and Violet, Reed, and Sloane Huddy; sister-in-law, Norma Mjelde; and many other relatives and friends.
Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Scandia Township Cemetery, Polk County.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Esther Ramstad, 94
Esther Lucille Ramstad, 94, of Bemidji, MN died Thursday, December 16, 2021, at her home.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji, MN. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m. Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Bemidji, MN.
Esther was born February 15, 1927, in Elk River, MN the daughter of Edward “Fred” and Dora (Judge) Rupprecht. She moved with her family to the Nary area. She was a member of the Malvick Lutheran Church in Nary, Calvary Lutheran Church in Bemidji, and the Square Dance club. She married Marvin Ramstad October 24, 1953, in Bemidji. She enjoyed sewing, playing cards, square dancing, baking, and flower gardening. Family was the most important part of her life.
She is survived by her children David (Norma) Ramstad of Buffalo, MN, Kendal (Janet) Ramstad of Marion, IA, Doug Ramstad of Bemidji, MN, Gary (Ruth) Ramstad of Blaine, MN, Susan (Mike) Adkins of Solway, MN, son-in-law, Charles Webber of Marion, IA; 10 grandchildren, Eric (Amber) Adkins, Brian (Candice) Adkins, Kyle (Candice) Adkins, Michael (Amy) Ramstad, Donald (Tami) Ramstad, Rebecca Samuelson, Christopher (Mollie) Ramstad, Jacqueline (Austin) Ramstad, David Wheat, and Kimberly Wheat, 16 great grandchildren, and brother, Melvin Rupprecht of Milaca, MN.
She was preceded in death by her father, Edward “Fred” Rupprecht, mother, Dora (Judge) Rupprecht, husband, Marvin Ramstad, 1st husband, Donald Dybvig, daughter April (Ramstad) Webbar, brother, Edward Rupprecht, sisters, Ida (Rupprecht) Solberg and Francis (Rupprecht) Anderson.
Condolences may be left at ceasefuneralhome.com.
