Mary Susann Krebs passed away peacefully in Rochester, Minnesota on October 19, 2023. Visitation will be on Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 am. The clergy will be Fr. Mark Steffl. Interment will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Sleepy Eye. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.
Mary was born in Sauk Centre, Minnesota on April 29, 1957, to John and Maxine (Krier) Tauber, the second oldest of 5 children. She was often called “Sue” by family and friends.
Mary was a proud mom and grandma who valued family time. Spending time with the grandkids, taking them to parks and the zoo, or attending activities were always highlights. Mary was very detailed, taking pride in a well-kept house. She always made the best of everything that came her way. Mary was a helper and caregiver her whole life. She helped her dad during custom harvesting in her younger years, devoted her life to being a nurse, and cared for her family and many members of the community for over 40 years. Mary moved mountains seeking the best medical care for her youngest son.
Mary graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1975 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Mankato State in 1979. She spent over 13 years caring for residents at St. John’s Lutheran Home in Springfield and over 29 years as a public health nurse in Brown County, Dodge County, and most recently, Olmsted County. Mary was recognized for her work by receiving the Touch of Kindness Award from St. John’s and the Brown County Commissioner’s Award for her work on emergency preparedness.
Mary will be deeply missed by her children, Josh (Kasey) Krebs, Julie (Justin) Mueller, and Joe Krebs; grandchildren, Payton, Ralyn, and Sully Krebs; siblings, Pat (Galen) Blunck of Creighton, NE, Ted Tauber of Winnetoon, NE, Rita (Tim) Buffington of Lone Tree, CO, and Karen (David) Wilmes of Omaha, NE; many nieces and nephews; and uncle, Duane Krier of Mesa, AZ. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, John and Maxine Tauber; three infant siblings; and former father and mother-in-law, Donald and Violet Krebs.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy via https://www.parentprojectmd.
Katelyn NC Mason, 68, of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota died at the Sleepy Eye Medical Center surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, October 18th. A private service will be held. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.
Katelyn moved to Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, from Pattaya City, Thailand in 1976. In 2007, she married the love of her life, Michael Mason of Sleepy Eye Stained Glass. Together, they loved doing stained glass and flea marketing. Katelyn loved making jewelry and collecting antiques, and she had finally realized her dream of opening her own antique shop prior to her passing.
She is survived by her loving husband, Mike Mason; sons, Thomas Kolbe II, Christopher Kolbe and Anthony Kolbe; her only daughter, Elizabeth Kolbe; and stepdaughter, Deanna Marshall. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Thor, Jaxon and Milena Kolbe; step grandchildren, Alexsis (Jamie) Lahn, Shaun (Rachel) Marshall, Chelsey (Jared) Schommer, Niki (Aaron) Youngquist; and many great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews in her homeland, Thailand.
Katelyn was preceded in death by her parents, Somkuan and Thongkum Charleonpol; all her brothers and sisters, Pramote, Piramut, Manop, Mana and Manit; as well as her first daughter, baby Faith.
Harvey Roy Crable III, aged 74, entered the peace and glory of Heaven on Tuesday, October 11, 2023, at his cherished lake home near Park Rapids, Minnesota. Harvey was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a beloved grandfather who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Harvey was born on March 16, 1949, in Topeka, Kansas, to proud parents Harvey Jr. and IvaGean Crable. At a young age, his family embarked on a journey that led them to Duluth, Minnesota, where he attended Duluth Middle School. Shortly thereafter, they settled in Bloomington, where Harvey graduated from Bloomington-Kennedy High School in 1968. It was during his high school years that he met the love of his life, Cynthia L. Block.
On August 21, 1971, Harvey and Cynthia exchanged vows and began a beautiful journey together. Harvey was a dedicated family man, taking immense pride in his three sons: Harvey Roy IV, Casey Ryan, and Kyle William. He pursued a career in education, teaching social studies and coaching football and basketball at Sumner High School in Kansas City, Kansas. He continued his passion for teaching and coaching in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, and later in Wells where he not only coached high school football but also served as the Athletic Director. After several years at Wells, Harvey continued his passion for sports and became the Luverne High School Athletic Director.
Towards the twilight of his career, Harvey and Cynthia longed for the tranquility of northern Minnesota, eventually settling in Bemidji, Minnesota, where Harvey continued his role as Athletic Director at Bemidji High School. He retired from Bemidji High School in 2010, and together with Cynthia, they found their dream home in Park Rapids, Minnesota, a place they intended to spend the rest of their lives together.
Harvey was a man of diverse passions. He reveled in watching his children and grandchildren play sports, cherishing every moment on the sidelines. The great outdoors held a special place in his heart, and he found solace in activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, and golfing. He was most content when he was on the lake or in the woods, feeling the embrace of nature.
Harvey will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Cynthia; his three devoted sons: Harvey Roy IV (Tausha) Crable, Casey Ryan (Cherene) Crable, and Kyle William (Tara) Crable; and his seven adored grandchildren: Kylee (Jacob) Stinson, Madysen Crable, Kloey Crable, Harvey Roy Crable V, Klaire Crable, Kenadee Crable, and Crosby Crable. He is also survived by his siblings, Trudy Crable and Greg Crable, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends. Harvey was preceded in death by his loving parents, Harvey Roy Crable Jr. and IvaGean Crable.
Funeral services to celebrate the life of Harvey Roy Crable III will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the Jones-Pearson Funeral Home in Park Rapids. Visitation will take place on Friday, October 20, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
In the tender embrace of loving memories, Harvey Roy Crable III will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that he gave so freely throughout his life.
After a courageous battle with cancer, Jean M. Soukop passed away in her home. She was 72 years old.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sleepy Eye on October 23 at 11am with Fr. Mark Steffl as Celebrant. There will be a visitation hour at 10 a.m. in the North entrance of the church.
Jean was born to Jim and Ruth (Mickelson) Rono on May 5, 1951. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in 1969, Jean completed her cosmetology degree in Mankato. She was a hair stylist for 40 years and worked at Mark Thomas Co after that. She married the love of her life, Joe Soukup on August 2, 1976. Together they shared 47 years of marital bliss. In her spare time she enjoyed golfing, time on the lake fishing, baking, and finding different varieties of Hostas to add to her flower gardens. Jean had a caring, friendly, fun-loving spirit that will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Jean is survived by her husband, Joe of 47 years; Child: Garett (Stef) Soukup of Farmington, MN; 1 Grandchild: Zeke; Sister: JoAnn Mogren of Hugo, MN; Nieces: Nikki Haas of Hugo, MN and Ali Rono of Tampa FL. She is preceded in death by her parents Jim and Ruth Rono; brother Doug Rono, nephew Thor Haas, and still born son.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed towards St. Mary’s School or St. Mary’s Church.
Judith “Judy” A. DeMarais, age 71 of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, died on October 9, 2023, at St. John Lutheran Home in Springfield, Minnesota. Visitation will be on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel followed by a Memorial Service which will be held at 4:00 pm. The clergy will be Chaplain Noel Wetter. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Anoka. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.
Judith Ann “Judy” (Smith) DeMarais, the daughter of Donald and Cecilia “Doris” (LeVeque) Smith, was born on July 27, 1952, in Anoka, Minnesota. She grew up with her two brothers in Anoka, attended St. Stephen’s Catholic School through eighth grade, and graduated from Anoka High School in 1970. While in high school, she began working at Cornelius Company through a work study program and continued there after graduation. Later, she worked for Allina Health Systems for several years, retiring at the age of 62.
When she wasn’t working, Judy loved to shop and go out to dinner with friends. She loved to go on trips with her friend Arla. She loved keeping busy and was always ready for the next adventure. Judy had an innate ability to create meaningful connections wherever she went, and she was blessed with many lasting friendships that spanned decades. An avid knitter, Judy skillfully crafted many beautiful and detailed sweaters, Afghans, hats, mittens, etc. that she generously shared with family and friends. She lovingly and patiently taught some of her grandchildren how to knit. Patience, love, and forgiveness were attributes Judy lived throughout her life.
Judy was an incredible and simply amazing mom and grandma. Her family meant everything to her and five years ago, she moved to Sleepy Eye to be closer to her children, Amber and Jarrod, and their families. She absolutely loved being a grandma, a role that brought her so much joy, and she was purposeful in having a special relationship with each one of her grandchildren. Judy spread kindness everywhere and she was always present for those she loved dearly. Her daily text messages, advice, Netflix recommendations, unconditional love, and most of all, her very presence will be missed beyond measure.
Judy is survived by her daughter, Amber (Dan) Bentler and their children, Evan, Josh, Andrew, and Sylvia, of New Ulm, MN; son, Jarrod DeMarais and his children, Hayden, Aubrey, and Brahm of New Ulm, MN; brother, Bill (Twila) Smith of Champlin Park, MN; and other loving relatives and cherished friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Ralph Stephens.
Norma Jean Sellner, age 84 of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, died on October 9, 2023, at her home. Visitation will be on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel. A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 pm. The clergy will be Fr. Mark Steffl. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.
Norma Jean (Hale) Sellner was born on January 13, 1939, to William H. Hale Sr. and Florence E. (Kuelbs) Hale of Franklin, Minnesota. They moved to Sleepy when she was young, and Norma Jean graduated from Sleepy Eye Public School. She married Jerome R. Sellner, and they were blessed with their daughter, Tamera. Years later they divorced. Norma Jean worked at the Sleepy Eye Dairy Queen and later began working at Sleepy Eye Care Center as a dietary aide, a job she held for 37 years. She took great pride in the quality of her work and taught others to do the same. She retired when she was in her 70s.
Norma Jean loved going for car rides and sitting out by the lake in the summer watching all the activity the lake attracts. She also loved shopping, watching TV, feeding the birds, doing yard work, and eating at restaurants. She looked forward to planting a few flowers each spring at her home she shared with her cat Shilo. Norma Jean cherished her family and friends, thoroughly enjoying their visits and phone conversations. She was a great mom, grandma, and great-grandma and will be greatly missed.
Norma Jean is survived by her daughter, Tamera Jean Sellner of Sleepy Eye; grandchild, Brandon (Kasie) Sellner of Statham, Georgia; great-grandchildren, Jolee and Jaden Ingram and Everleigh Sellner; many nieces and nephews; and other loving relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Eldora Dittbenner, Ruth Schmidt, Irene Current, and Shirley Birkeland; brother, William Hale, Jr; brothers-in-law, Armin Dittbenner, Lawrence Schmidt, Douglas Current, and Roger Birkeland; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Hale.
William R. Trebesch, age 82 of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, died on October 12, 2023, at Divine Providence Community Home in Sleepy Eye. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel and will continue on Monday from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sleepy Eye. A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:00 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sleepy Eye and will be livestreamed at www.stjohnsse.com/page/live-
William Ray Trebesch, the son of Theodore and Lena (Alt) Trebesch, was born on December 25, 1940, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. He attended school and graduated from Sleepy Eye Public School. In 1960, William decided to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army Reserves where he served for six years. On August 8, 1970, William married the love of his life, Joan (Schiller) Ross and together, they raised six children on the Trebesch farmstead. They enjoyed 37 years together when Joni died in 2007. Steadfast in his faith, William was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. He was also a member of the Servicemen’s Club in Sleepy Eye.
William raised his family on the same farm he was raised on and was proud to share with his sons, Chad and Brett. Farming is what he knew and, more importantly, what he loved to do. He raised hogs along with corn and soybeans. Harvest was his favorite time of year. “If it ain’t red, keep it in the shed” has become William’s legacy for those following in his footsteps. When he wasn’t farming, he worked at Del Monte in the Seed Shack. In his free time, William was always ready for a card game whether it was 31, Garbage, or Cribbage which he patiently taught many how to play. He loved listening to old time music, especially his friend, Larry Olsen, who plays the concertina. Hunting, fishing, and watching deer at his cabin up north, surrounded by family and good friends, brought him much joy. Family meant everything to William; “Dad” and “Grandpa” were titles he was most proud of. He was present for absolutely everything involving his children and grandchildren, no matter how big or small. His unwavering support, wisdom, and love will be incredibly missed.
William is survived by his children, Jeff Ross of Sauk Centre, MN, Chad (Laura) Trebesch of Sleepy Eye, MN, Kelly (Dale) Sellner, Sleepy Eye, MN, Brett Trebesch (Tammy Ellanson) of Sleepy Eye, MN, and Jody (Scott) Wills of Nicollet, MN; son-in-law, Patrick Poston of White Bear Lake, MN; grandchildren, Jonathan Nilan (special friend Danielle), Kasey (Dan) Ross, Ethan (Nicole) Ross, Jacob (Shelby) Trebesch, Lane Trebesch, Jordan Burden, Tanner Burden, Spencer Burden, Caleb Trebesch, Tucker Wills, and Jocelyn Wills; granddaughter-in-law, Justine Trebesch; great-grandchildren, Chance Nilan, Hannah Hunter, Olivia Trebesch, Brooke Trebesch, and Gigi Trebesch; brother, Paul (Sue) Trebesch of Sleepy Eye, MN; brothers-in-law, Chuck Krzmarzick of Sleepy Eye, MN and Ron Larrabee of Farmington, NM; and other loving relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Lena Trebesch; wife, Joan Trebesch; daughter, Jacqueline Poston; grandson, Austin Trebesch; brothers, Harold Trebesch and John Trebesch; and sisters, Laurel Bielke, Illa Mae Harmening, Delores Romberg, Eva Larrabee, Karen Pyan, and Wilma Krzmarzick.
Time stopped for just a moment on October 8th, 2023, at 3:25p.m. as Ivan Kotten went with God to heaven. Ivan lived 101 years touching so many lives along the way.
Visitation will be on Friday, October 13th, from 4 to 7 pm at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel and will continue on Saturday from 9:30 am until 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church-North Entrance in Sleepy Eye. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sleepy Eye on Saturday, October 14th, at 10:30 am and will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/
Ivan Victor Kotten, the son of John & Theckla (Ruffing) Kotten, was born on December 27, 1921, in Buckman, MN, and passed away Sunday, October 8, 2023, at Divine Providence Nursing Home surrounded by family. Ivan’s family moved to Sleepy Eye, MN shortly after he was born and grew up with three sisters and a brother. His family was always important to him growing up and remained so for all of his life.
After finishing eighth grade at St. Mary’s School in Sleepy Eye, Ivan continued to help his father and neighbors with farming until he was drafted into the Army in 1942. He served with the 91st Infantry and was honorably discharged in 1943. After serving in the military, he continued farming and also grew sweetcorn and peas for Del Monte, Ivan was actively farming until the time of his passing. On April 24, 1946, Ivan married Florence Schweiss. They lived on a farm west of Sleepy Eye in Prairieville Township until 1977 and then moved to a farm north of Sleepy Eye. Together they raised six children.
Besides full-time farming, Ivan found time to indulge in many personal pleasures. Some of these included attending Farm Fest, Albany Pioneer Days, playing sheep head, listening to old time music, watching wrestling on TV (a real favorite), going to old time dances, playing accordion as a young child, and listening to concertina music. A highlight for him was meeting Molly B at Larry’s Music Fest in Lake Benton.
Ivan was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church where he served as an usher, lecturer, and commentator for many years. For 25 years he served on the Board for St. Mary’s Parish Credit Union as well as the Farmers Home Administration, Catholic United Association, the Stearns County Pioneer Club and a long time member of the Sleepy Eye Concertina Club. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his children, Victor (Betty) Kotten of Albany, MN, Arla Dannheim Suhr of Laporte, MN, Charlene (Dan) Saari, of New Ulm, MN, Steven (Brenda) Kotten of Morgan, MN, Charles (Shelly) Kotten of Sleepy Eye, MN and Larry (Kathy) Kotten of Wentworth, SD; 21 grandchildren; 41 great grandchildren; and 11 great-great grandchildren. He also leaves behind many good friends and special friend, Jerry Nachreiner.
Ivan was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Florence; siblings, Viola Watkins, Bernice Wittrock, Sylvester Kotten, Marie Jones and toddler sister Iona; and sons-in-law, Ben Dannheim and Gerald Suhr.
Vernard T. Riebel, 86, of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota died on September 30, 2023, at New Ulm Medical Center in New Ulm, Minnesota. Visitation will be on Thursday, October 5th, from 4 to 7pm at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel and will continue on Friday from 9:30 am until 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church-North Entrance in Sleepy Eye. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sleepy Eye on Friday, October 6th, at 10:30 am and will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/stmarysleepyeye. The clergy will be Fr. Mark Steffl. Interment will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Sleepy Eye. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com. Memorials are preferred to St. Mary’s Catholic School.
Vernard “Vernie” Thomas Riebel would like to let you know that his work here is done. He received an offer he couldn’t refuse, on Saturday, September 30th, for an appointment with our Lord, from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with great benefits and a reunion with his beloved family and friends.
His new role takes him to a wonderful place where he will be harvesting an abundant crop every fall, joking with family and friends, walking and dancing with no pain, hunting in the woods, reeling in the “big one” at the lake and having “just one more” while all the world problems are solved.
Vernie attended St. Mary’s School and spent his entire life on the farm. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Those missing him include his loving wife, Myrt (Klossner) of 62 years; children, David & Nancee of Sleepy Eye, Mark & Kathy of Milaca, Gwen & Darrel Brey of New Ulm and Sue & Blaine Lueck of St. Cloud; grandchildren, Amber Riebel, Terry Riebel, Nick Riebel, Jacob Riebel, Katie Riebel, Joe Brey, Ali Winter, Ben Lueck, Josh Lueck and Sam Lueck; and 8 great grandchildren. Vernie is also survived by his brothers, Gerald & Diane and Ken Riebel of Sleepy Eye; brother-in-law, Harvey Klossner (Marge) of Silver Lake; and sister-in-law, Ruth Klossner of Bernadotte.
He is reunited with his parents, Bernard “Ben” and Minnie (Klinker) Riebel; brother, Richard who died in infancy; his in-laws, Hillard “Jake” and Edna Klossner; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
We thank the Allina Health Hospice and Hospital staff for the compassionate care our Dad received. We will forever be grateful!
Dylan R. Maas, age 31 of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, died on September 20, 2023. Visitation will be on Sunday, October 1, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Sturm Funeral Home, Sleepy Eye Chapel and will continue on Monday from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sleepy Eye. A funeral service will be held at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sleepy Eye on Monday, October 2, 2023, at 11:00 am and will be livestreamed at www.stjohnsse.com/page/live-
Dylan Robert Maas was born to Bob and Missy Maas on January 19, 1992, in New Ulm, MN. He was baptized at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sleepy Eye, on February 2, 1992. He attended St. John’s Lutheran grade school and was confirmed on May 7, 2006. He was a lifelong member of St. John’s and a firm believer. Dylan graduated from Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School in 2011. He went to Minnesota West Technical College in Jackson, MN, to become a Lineman. Through his studies, he received his CDL. After graduating, Dylan worked as a power lineman for many years. He left the powerline trade to become a trucker. His high expectations for himself led him to accomplish his goals. In 2019, Dylan realized his lifelong dream of owning his own business. He utilized his strong work ethic to build Dylan Maas Trucking. He operated out of his family farm and lifelong residence. It became a family business, and he drove with his Dad and brother, Dustin.
Dylan was passionate about his many hobbies. He spent every Fall hunting waterfowl and deer with his friends and family. He was an avid fisherman and incredible bowfisher. He was a skilled trapshooter and shot with his family. Dylan had a love for classic trucks and muscle cars. He enjoyed working on his vehicles and lending a helping hand to his friends and family. He used his passion for family and vehicles to build a truck for his little brother as his first vehicle. He answered anyone’s call for help with a smile and a truck full of tools. He was highly intelligent and always learning. He spread wisdom and advice in every situation. Dylan cherished his time with his girlfriend Kallie and her two children, Hudson and Quinn. He loved them deeply, and they shared countless laughs and stories. He enjoyed going to great lengths to prank his Mom. The greatest of Dylan’s hobbies was spreading laughter and sharing stories. His limitless one-liners and stories never failed to put a smile on someone’s face. His deep love for family and friends was unfathomable. Dylan’s greatest qualities were his love, charm, humor, and compassion.
Dylan was preceded in death by his grandparents, Gilbert & Milred Maas and Nick & Rosemary Mertz; uncles, Kim Mertz, Nick Mertz, Brian Maas, and Loren Blick; and cousins, Scott Maas, Cole Mertz and Andrew Mertz.
Dylan is survived by his parents, Robert Maas and Melissa Maas; stepmother, Kathy Purdie-Maas; brothers, Dustin Maas and Colten Maas and Colten’s special friend, Audrey Petersen; Dylan’s special friend, Kallie Kociemba and her children, Quinn and Hudson; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.
