Obituaries 1/27/22
Dolores Berning, 86
Dolores (Lewis) Berning, age 86, of St. Michael, passed away on Monday, January 24, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids. She was born on May 6th, 1935, in Elk River, Minnesota, the daughter of Frederic and Lenore (Scherber) Lewis.
On June 29, 1957, Joseph Berning and Dolores Lewis were joined in holy marriage at St. Walburga Catholic Church in Fletcher. God blessed their marriage with five children.
Dolores was a faithful member of The Church of St. Michael in St. Michael. She was also a member of the Christian Mothers. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, baking, and spending time with her family and friends.
Dolores is survived by her children, Karen Berning (Bruce Yeager), of St. Michael, Jane (Eugene) Kolles, of Albertville, Steven (Terry) Berning, of St. Michael, Jill (Dan) Hagen of Buffalo, and Scott (Gigette) Berning, of Monticello; seven grandchildren, Angie (Josh) Weber, Eric (Ashley) Kolles, Tricia (Ben) Allen, Geoffrey Berning, Antonia Berning (Matthew) Scilley, Philip and Mara Hagen; six great-grandchildren; sister, Luonne (Mike) Kennedy; brothers, Dennis (Rita) Lewis, David (Marie) Lewis, Larry (Bonnie) Lewis, Joe (Linda) Lewis, Doug (Pat) Lewis, Mike (Barb) Lewis, Greg Lewis; brother-in-law, James (Mary) Berning; and many other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Berning; parents, Frederic and Lenore Lewis; sister, Mary Rose Biegert; in-laws, Marcus and Teresa Berning; a great-grandson, Leo Weber; daughter-in-law, Gail Bakeberg; brothers-in-law, Richard Biegert, Ray Berning, and Jerome Berning; sisters-in-law, Evelyn (Berning) Stupfel; Doris (Berning) Lee, Anita Berning and Martha Lewis.
A visitation for family and close friends will be held Friday, January 28, 2022, from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M., followed by a private family Mass, at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael. Burial will be at St. Michael Cemetery. The family requests masks to please be worn.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Saint Benedict’s Monastery, 104 Chapel Lane, St. Joseph, MN 56374-0220.
Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home, 763-497-5362, www.thepetersonchapel.com.
John Hed, 86
John B. Hed, age 86, passed away January 13, 2022, of Alzheimer’s dementia.
Born the youngest of five boys in Mankato, he graduated from Willmar HS in 1953. He flew T-28s and T-34s for the USAF. Trained as math/science teacher, he spent the majority of his career working as a systems analyst for Sperry Univac, a job that took him to Japan, Australia, and Germany.
John was a smart and curious tinkerer with a DIY attitude. He enjoyed camping, fishing, swimming, scuba, stained glass, flying Cessnas, model airplane building, eBay, movies, golf, watching the Gophers, Twins, and Vikings. He renovated many homes, a Chris-Craft, and a 1976 Airstream.
He is survived by his wife, Karen (married 64 years); son, Mike, of Menahga; daughter, Laura, of Maple Grove (with husband, Tom Stanke and daughters, Samantha, Lizzy); son, Scott (with wife, Becky Carlson and kids, Rachel, Katie, Andrew); and daughter, Sally (with husband, Mike Dahlquist), of Stillwater.
He joins his parents, Arthur and Estella; brothers, Robert and Ronald; nephews, Steve, Tom, and David in heaven.
A big thank you is extended to the doctors and nurses at the VA Medical Center (Mpls.), memory care staff at Havenwood (Buffalo), and hospice nurses/staff at The Estates at Greeley (Stillwater) care center.
If you want to honor John, he would suggest that you never combine birthday and Christmas gifts into one present. All men should get yearly PSA tests that detect prostate cancer. Or visit Frieda’s Cafe in Willmar, a restaurant his dad once ran as Hed’s Hamburgers. Giving to the VA Medical Center (va.gov) or Alzheimer’s (alz.org) is also appreciated.
A celebration of his life will be held in the spring. For updates, visit thepetersonchapel.com (of Buffalo) or call 763-682-1363.
Virginia Kramer, 79
Virginia “Ginny” Rose Kramer, age 79, of Buffalo, passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022.
Ginny was born on April 3, 1942, in Shakopee to Albert and Lucille (Klotz) Klepperich. She graduated from Waconia High School in 1960. Ginny was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and family meant everything to her!
Ginny spent most of her adult life as a small business owner. Her family businesses included Coast to Coast Hardware in Buffalo, Fashion Crossroads in Buffalo and Coast to Coast/Ace Hardware in Hutchinson. She really enjoyed working with customers and especially loved helping people pick out paint colors in the hardware store. Some would call her “The Paint Lady.”
Ginny was a person with a zest for life. She loved being around other people. Her hobbies included snowmobiling, fishing, playing cards and going out with friends. She also loved relaxing at the lake. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she would do anything for them. She had an adventurous spirit and was always ready to go on vacation or a girls weekend with family and friends. Ginny was always quick with a smile, and her laugh was contagious.
Ginny is survived by her children, Dave (Kelly) Kramer, of Hutchinson, Laurie Kramber, of Buffalo, Jeff (Chris) Kramer, of Buffalo and Brett (Bobbi) Kramer, of Buffalo; grandchildren, David Jr. (Nicole) Kramer, Katie (Ted) Gehring, Bailey (Nate) Huikko, Courtney Kramer, Jake (Denise) Kramber, Tiffany Kramer, Dylan Kramer, Joshua Kramber, Jackson Kramer and Derek Kramer; great-grandchildren, Adrianna, Amiee, Max, Asher, Emery, Mallory and August; siblings, Rich (Julie) Klepperich, Pat (Ray) Pink, Marge (Pete) VanSloun, Donna (Doug) Sohns; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Lucille Klepperich; brothers, Edward Klepperich and William Klepperich; sisters, Barbara Klepperich and Geneva Waller; grandparents; as well as a great many extended relatives and friends.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 11:00 A.M., with a visitation one hour prior at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at Bison Creek Event Center (Huikko’s). A luncheon will be served immediately after the service at Bison Creek Event Center (Huikko’s). A private family interment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ginny’s name to an organization that supports Dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, MN, 763-682-1363, www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Lewis Noerenberg, 79
Lewis Victor Noerenberg went home to meet his Heavenly Father on January 19, 2022, passing peacefully in his sleep at St. Therese Care Center in New Hope. Lewis, or “Big Lou” as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was born on April 28, 1942, to Ludvig and Lydia Noerenberg in Hollywood Township, Minnesota.
Lewis graduated from Watertown-Mayer High School and was wed in Holy Matrimony to Sharon Ann Kuka at St. Mary’s of Czestochowa in Delano, MN, on September 28, 1963. He loved spending time with his family and friends, working with his hands, rooting for Minnesota Gophers football, and hunting and fishing, especially his annual salmon fishing trips to Lake Michigan. He was a skilled self-taught engineer and rarely met a problem he couldn’t solve. Lewis took pride in serving his community and retired from the National Guard and MN Army Reserves after 37 years and attaining the rank of Master Sergeant. He also enjoyed teaching DNR safety classes at the Watertown Rod and Gun Club, serving the Knights of Columbus and being a member of the Howard Lake American Legion.
Lewis is survived by his wife, Sharon; children, Clarise (Scott) Reichardt, Sarah (Tim) Smith, Michelle (Eric) Noerenberg, and Jonathan (Heidi) Noerenberg; and grandchildren, Carson, Riley, Evelyn, and Jaxon.
Due to Covid-19, a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org).
Arrangements by the Iten Funeral Home in Delano.
Rainer Pensky, 85
Rainer Helmut Pensky, age 85, of Buffalo, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 17, 2022, at 5:00 P.M. at the Buffalo Hospital. He was born July 17, 1936, in Germany, the son of Heinz and Dorothea (Hunt) Pensky.
Rainer was an active member of the Buffalo Community, being involved with the Zuhrah Shrine, Zuhrah Flyers, Buffalo Rotary, and Nelson Lodge 13- where he was the recipient of the Hiram award, the highest award of the Masonry. He was also former Buffalo City Councilman, Buffalo Planning Commission, former member of the Buffalo Fire Department and Buffalo Airport Board member.
Rainer was a faithful member of Buffalo Presbyterian Church, being active in the choir and as Deacon, he was also on the church board.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Heinz and Dorothea Pensky; brother, Hans Georg; sister, Silke; and favorite dog, Donny.
Rainer is survived by his loving wife, Dolores; son, Eric (Kim); grandson, William; sisters, Elke, Heinke, Weibke; sister-in-law, Gretchen Turnblad; and many other family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 5, 2022, at 12:30 P.M., with visitation beginning at 11:00 A.M. and Masonic Service at 12:00 P.M., at Buffalo Presbyterian Church in Buffalo, MN.
Services will be livestreamed at: https://www.buffalopresbyterian.org/
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Buffalo Presbyterian Church.
Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, MN, 763-682-1363, www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Mark Toenies, 69
Mark Henry Toenies, age 69, of Buffalo, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, January 14, 2022. He was born July 29, 1952, in Paynesville, MN, the son of Celestine and Rita (Heinen) Toenies.
Mark graduated from Gaylord High School in 1970. He furthered his education at Chippewa Valley Technical College obtaining his degree. He enjoyed being a truck driver for over 45 years.
Mark liked to stay busy and enjoyed watching the Three Stooges and Old Western Movies.
Mark was a quiet man, and the best dad! He loved to take his daughters fishing and play tennis when they were kids. As a child, Mark enjoyed fishing and swimming. He was an avid Twins and Vikings fan.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Celestine Gerard and Rita Marie Toenies.
Mark is survived by his children, Dana (Andy) Butterbrodt and Nicole Toenies; grandchildren, McKenzie, Thomas, Sierra, Inez, Jayce; step-grandchildren, Coryssa, Megan, Jake; great-granddaughter, Maizie; step-great-granddaughter, Emery; siblings, Bill Toenies, Mary (Bob) Johnson, Diane Toenies (Patrick Billskemper), Joan (John) Elton, Judy Brandriet, John (Patty) Toenies; uncle, Al Toenies; aunt, Maureen Luetmer; good friend, Pete Erickson; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, January 28, 2022, at 11:00 A.M., with visitation one hour prior, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo. Burial will follow at Assumption Cemetery in St. Cloud.
Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, 763-682-1363, www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Joyce Uecker, 82
Joyce Mary Uecker (Goerke), loving wife, mother, sister, and “Nana,” went home to be with Jesus and her Lynn on January 22, 2022. Joyce was born the daughter of Arthur and Alice (Marohn) Goerke on September 26, 1939, in Maple Lake, MN. The Goerke family farm was a treasured place of her childhood where she enjoyed both the hard work and simplicities of farm life.
She was baptized on October 22, 1939, attended parochial school, and confirmed her Lutheran faith on June 1,1952, all at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Middleville Township. She graduated from Howard Lake High School in 1957. Joyce’s love for children and learning was nurtured at Concordia University - St. Paul, where she studied elementary education. She instilled the value of education in her family, as both daughters continued her dream and became educators.
On June 11, 1960, Joyce was united in marriage to Ronald Uecker at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. God blessed them with three children. Joyce and Ron settled in Buffalo in 1971 and became faithful members at St. John’s Lutheran Church where she served on the LWML, Country Fair and VBS committees. Joyce also served others through working at Hallmark and Discovery School. Their family grew with the addition of six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Joyce found great delight in spending time with her family. She especially enjoyed family vacations at Lutheran Island Camp. She was quick to provide support and a word of encouragement. “Do you know how much Nana loves you?” was an oft-repeated phrase that we all treasured.
Joyce will also be remembered for her quick wit, kind heart, love for others, and elegance. She set the standard of fashion while still exuding that unique warmth, humbleness and openness that drew people of all ages to love her.
She cherished hymns. Her life song of love for her Savior was filled with joy, hope, and peace, which flowed through her words and actions. She taught her family how to sing it - how to live and share God’s love. Joyce believed in the saving work of Jesus Christ. He alone is our hope! We are resurrection people.
Joyce was preceded in death by her daughter, Lynn Meredith; great-grandson, Isaac Johnson; parents, Arthur and Alice Goerke; sister, Jacqueline Johnson; brothers-in-law, Allen Karie and Ronald Zeidler.
She is survived by her faithful, loving husband of 61 years, Ronald; children, Jill (David) Johnson and Nicolas (Stacy) Uecker; grandchildren, Peter (Stephanie) Johnson, Allison (Christopher) Pfleghaar, Elias, Olivia, Caden and Brandon Uecker; great-grandchildren, Lucas and Grant Johnson; siblings, Doris Karie, Jane Zeidler and Todd (Monica) Goerke; also, many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Visitation for Joyce will be held Friday, January 28, 2022, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Buffalo, MN. The Funeral Celebration of her faith and eternal life in Christ will be Saturday, January 29, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Buffalo, MN. Officiating will be Pastor Ryan Clark and Joyce’s grandson, Pastor Peter Johnson. Cross bearers will be Pastor David, Lucas, and Grant Johnson.
Casket bearers will be Peter Johnson, Allison Pfleghaar, Elias, Olivia, Caden and Brandon Uecker.
Honorary casket bearers will be Christopher Pfleghaar, Stephanie Johnson, Lucas Johnson, Grant Johnson, Bonnie Uecker, Christine Stark, Darrell Uecker and Larry Uecker.
Luncheon to follow at church. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery of Buffalo, MN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted to Noah’s Ark Preschool at St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo, MN.
