Al Luetmer
November 24, 1928 - October 23, 2024

Aloysius J. Luetmer, age 95, of Melrose left us peacefully on October 23, 2024. Called “Al” by family, friends and neighbors, he was known for his big stature and strong spirit. A dedicated farmer with a passion for baseball that would stay with him throughout his life, his biggest sources of pride were his family.

Born on November 24, 1928, in Meire Grove, Minnesota to Joseph and Marie (Nietfeld) Luetmer, Al attended the parochial school in Meire Grove, finishing his education at St. John’s Preparatory School. Part of a large, close-knit farming family, Al often shared stories of the many adventures he had with his siblings while growing up.

Gene Herd
September 18, 1933 - October 20, 2024

Allen Eugene Herd, better known as Gene or Geno died on October 20, 2024 at Auburn Manor in Chaska, MN.  He was born in Green Isle on September 18, 1933 to Clarence and Ann (Sickler) Herd.  He had 91 years to impact so many lives.  He spent all but 16 years in Green Isle, and said there is no other place he wanted to spend his life.  He shared, “my life is simple and I like it that way”.

Gene graduated from Glencoe High School in 1952 and enlisted into the United States Army for two years, October of 1953 - October of 1955, followed by business school for two years.  He started his one and only career with Northern States Power Company.  Gene retired from the Payroll Manager role after 33 years with NSP at the age of 58.  He was blessed with a slightly longer time spent retired than he did working. 

Geno found the love of his life at his brother’s wedding.  The twinkle in his eye appeared a bit brighter when he saw the maid of honor.  Marge O’Neil was the maid of honor for her sister Eileen, who was getting married to Gene’s brother, Don.  Brothers married sisters.  Gene and Marge were married for 63 years, rarely leaving each other except for a few annual hunting trips.  They had two children, Mary and Mark.

2024 MN Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame inductee was featured in an article in the Caledonia Argus dated August 2, 2024.

Eitzen's Bob Meiners inducted into Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame

James Brennan
December 21, 1943 - June 25, 2024

It is with heavy hearts and great sorrow that we announce the passing of James Michael Brennan, on June 25, 2024.  He was a beloved member of the Hinckley community.

He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota to J.D and Susan (Saloka) Brennan, on December 21, 1943, and raised in Hinckley, Minnesota.  James graduated from Hinckley High School in 1961 before furthering his education and graduating from St. Cloud State College in 1965. He proudly served in the Army Reserves from 1965 to 1971.

Steve Rader
February 3, 1930 - March 31, 2024

Stephen Andrew Rader, 94 of Rollingstone, MN passed away peacefully at St Elizabeth’s Care Center on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024. He was born February 3, 1930 to John and Florence (Sherman) Rader. He graduated from Rollingstone Holy Trinity School and made Rollingstone his lifelong home. 

He is survived by his high school sweet heart and wife of 72 years, Constance (Lewis), his son Paul (Vicki), daughters Dawn, and Cheryl (Robert Julich).  He leaves behind 4 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, 4 sisters and a brother. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, three sisters, and son-in-law David Courtier. He loved his family dearly and will be missed by them and the community he lived in.

Virgil Zellmann
May 9, 1938 - September 5, 2023

Virgil R. Zellmann, age 85, of Young America passed away Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at his residence.

Virgil Robert Zellmann was born May 9, 1938 in Young America, MN, the son of Hubert and Erna (Hensel) Zellmann. He was baptized June 5, 1938 and confirmed in the faith April 6, 1952.  His confirmation verse was Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Virgil graduated from Central High School in 1956.  On May 31, 1958 Virgil was united in marriage to Kathleen Neumann at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia. Their union was blessed with 3 children.

Virgil was diligent in all things and known for his hard work ethic. After high school, he dutifully entered the Army.  Upon completing his service, Virgil began working as a Telecommunications Technician for Centurylink. He also was a proud member of the Young America Fire Department, retiring after many years. Virgil continued to serve in the community as a member of the Young America VFW and a member of the Young America Hunting Club.

James Wells
September 11, 1940 — March 13, 2023

James "Jim" G. Wells, age 82 of Richville, MN, died Monday, March 13, 2023 at Perham Living.

He was born to Alvin and Dorothy (Ryder) Wells on September 11, 1940.

Jim was a life-long farmer and spent his working years farming in Richville. He will be remembered for his love of baseball, horses, friends, and family.

​Complete Obituary

Gary "Goose" Hess
February 14, 1955 - February 13, 2023

Gary L. Hess died on Monday, February 13, 2023, at his home in Alexandria at the age of 67.  

Gary Lee Hess, the son of Kenneth and Sara (Ryan) Hess, was born on February 14, 1955, in Sleepy Eye, MN.  He graduated from Fairfax High School in the class of 1973.  He married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Rebecca Schweiss on April 23, 1977 at St. Andrew’s Church, Fairfax. Together they raised two children, Paul and Emily. Gary worked most of his career as a salesman for Dubois Chemical and currently with Troy Chemical.