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Richard "Dick" Bacon
Richard “Dick” Bacon, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Our Lady of Peace in Saint Paul.
He was born the son of Richard and Evelyn nee Polifka Bacon on February 22, 1934 in Hastings, MN. Dick grew up in Hastings, graduating from Minnehaha Academy, class of 1952. He joined the National Guard and later joined the United States Army. Dick was stationed in Hawaii where he married Mary Kleis at Schofield Barracks Chapel on April 30, 1957. He spent 38 years in law enforcement, which included 21 years as a special agent with the Minnesota BCA. In 1978, Dick graduated from the FBI Academy in Quantico. While in law enforcement, Dick was chairman and board member of LEIU (law enforcement intelligence unit) traveling across the United States. He was also a founding father of Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center and served on the board for ten years. After retirement from law enforcement, Dick was hired as director of security for the Minnesota Lottery. He was also a resident security agent for Major League Baseball assigned to the Minnesota Twins.
Dick also had passion for volunteering in many different organizations. Dick and Mary spent 25 years retired in Arizona enjoying golf, family, friends, and sunshine. He was a marathon runner and ran the Boston marathon at age 52. Dick was a leader, role model, mentor, and friend to many. He was a special husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his family. “It was fitting that he died on Father’s Day, a day which honors men like him”.
Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Evelyn; brother, Dave (Beverly); sister, Lois Welshons; son-in-law, Craig Adams.
Survived by wife, Mary; children, Lisa Adams, Linda (Tom) Schnell, Jeanne (Paul) Inkala, Rick (Saundra); ten grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and one on the way; and many other relatives and friends.
Memorials may be directed to Our Lady of Peace Hospice Facility in Saint Paul.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 12 noon at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church (2035 15th Street West Hastings MN 55033) with a visitation starting at 10AM. A reception will follow the Mass. Please bring a memory to share during the reception. Interment will be in SEAS cemetery.
Richard (Dick) Arnold Fox
Richard (Dick) Arnold Fox, 91, of Rosemount, Minnesota, passed away peacefully June 11, 2025. Richard, the son of John and Clara (Conzemius) Fox, was born September 14, 1933, in Hastings, Minnesota.
Richard lived his life to the fullest, letting his passions guide his way. He was a long-time farmer in rural Rosemount, where his dedication to agriculture led him to win numerous awards, including several Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year awards. His most prized award was being named the 1994 Dakota County Farm Family of the Year.
His love of pumpkins and fall led him to open his own farm market in 2001. He began selling pumpkins, gourds, squash, Indian corn, and other fall produce right on the farm. As the years went by, his market evolved into the Fox Farm Market, open for both the fall and winter seasons. His vision for the market became a beloved tradition for not only his own family, but families all around the state who would make an annual trip just to hear his stories.
Richard was also passionate about giving back to his community. When he was young, he was very involved with St. Agatha's Catholic Church in Coates, as well as an active member of the Farmers Union Coop, the MN Pork Producers, and was a long-time board member of Federal Land Bank. One of his most loved organizations to give back to was Dakota County 4-H. He was a lifelong member and adult volunteer with the Happy-Go-Getters 4-H Club for over 50 years.
Although Richard got older, he always remained a child at heart. His love for antiques led him to collect toys he wished he would have had when he was young, and his eyes always lit up every winter when the Christmas lights and decorations came out.
Richard's greatest passion in life was his family. He adored his children and grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to support them in following their own dreams through life.
Richard is survived by his wife, Joan (Reissner) Fox; his children, John Fox, Jennifer (Mitch Prokop) Stancer, Chris (Elizabeth) Stancer, and Mike (Tari) Stancer; his grandchildren, Dwayne Gunderson-Stancer, Rachel (Jacob) Robinson, Alex, Sierra, and Silas Stancer, Emma, Abigail, and David Stancer; and great-granddaughter, Haley Mae Robinson. He is also survived by brothers, Joseph Fox and Marty (Joanne) Fox; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Richard is preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Fran Fox; daughters, Maureen and Mary Lee Fox; son, David Stancer; and siblings, Lucille (Fox) Bauer and Henry Fox.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 15th Street West, Hastings, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. A reception will follow the Mass at the church. Burial will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings.
Noreen L. Voelker
Noreen L. Voelker, age 74, of Hastings, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at United Hospital in St. Paul.
Noreen was born on January 3, 1951, in Hastings, Minnesota, to Edward and Marylee (McWaters) Voelker. She was the oldest of six children and grew up in Hastings, attending Guardian Angels School and graduating from Hastings High School. Noreen went on to earn her nursing degree from St. Barnabas Hospital School of Nursing, becoming a proud Registered Nurse.
Throughout her career, Noreen served at several hospitals across the metro area, including the VA, before finishing her nursing journey in home health care. She had a heart for caregiving and truly loved helping others.
Noreen enjoyed crocheting, working on the family farm during planting and harvest season, and helping out at the farmers market. She had a gift for conversation, always eager to visit, laugh, and connect with others. A devoted Catholic and a woman of deep faith, she cherished her family and her relationship with the Lord. Holidays were especially joyful, often filled with games like Farkle and plenty of laughter. She loved to have a good time and was known for her kind spirit and generous heart.
She is survived by her siblings, Brad, Jim, Holly, and Melodee, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Marylee, and her sister, Ramona.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. A light reception will follow the service. Burial will take place at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery in Hastings.
Alfred "Al" Altendorfer
Alfred "Al" Altendorfer age 88 of Hastings, passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at United Hospital in Saint Paul.
He was born the son of Alfred and Hazel on August 21, 1936 in Saint Paul. Al went to Johnson Harding High School. Following High School, Al joined the United States Air Force and served from July 1954 - April 1958. Al worked for the brickyard and drove the milk truck after the service. He married Lois Schwartzbauer on April 18, 1959. Al attended the FBI academy and later retired as a police detective from the Hastings police department. He drove buses in Hastings for 45 years. Al was a ranger and lifetime member at Bellwood Oaks Golf Course. He was an active member in the American Legion serving as Commander numerous times. After Lois death, Al married Dorothy Johnson on July 22, 1997. Al loved golfing, fishing, dancing, and bowling. He was a great dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Al was loved by his family. He was stubborn and a fair disciplinarian.
Al is preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Hazel; first wife, Lois; sisters, Nancy Pinto, Pat Schreiber, and Sharon King; brothers, Kermit, Dick, Mark. He is survived by second wife, Dorothy Johnson; his children, Lee (Frank) Sieben, Tim (Val), Debbie (Bruce Lehner); grandchildren, Elizabeth, Michelle, Frankie, Jessica, Brian, Nick, Jenny, Trisha; ten great-grandchildren; stepchildren, Mike, Julie, Jay, and Diana; step grandchildren, Casey, Tor, and Zella; cat Sherlock; and many other relatives and friends.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 4:00-7:00PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street Hastings MN 55033. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 11:00AM at the funeral home with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis. Arrangements are with Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.
Marlene "Peaches" Lawrence
Marlene V. "Peaches" Lawrence Age 91, of Hastings, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Formerly of International Falls, Marlene was born on January 24, 1934, in South St. Paul, Minnesota, to Carl and Virginia Esslinger. She was raised in Orr, MN, where her parents owned and operated the Nightingale Bar and Esslinger Resort. It was there that she met her former husband, Edward "Moe" Lawrence. Together they moved back to South St. Paul and raised four children: Diana, Carla, Nancy, and Michael.
Marlene was a true original. She was resourceful, fearless when it came to a project, and known for her love of oak wood and craftsmanship. She even completed all the trim and finish work in her own home. She enjoyed gardening, shopping, and refinishing furniture. Her generosity and kindness were matched only by her strong will and unmistakable spirit. You truly had to know her to love her.
She worked for many years as a custodial engineer for the City of South St. Paul and took pride in everything she did.
Marlene is survived by her children, Carla (Mike LaManna) Lawrence, Nancy (Mark) Oxley, and Michael (Sheila) Lawrence; grandchildren, Chris, Timothy, Joylene, Meagan, Brandon, and Tony; great-grandchildren, Aniyah, Celeste, Skylar, TJ, and Taleah; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sue; brother, Ernie; and daughter, Diana.
Per her wishes, no services will be held at this time.
Caroline J. Henriksen
Caroline J. Henriksen, age 85, of Farmington, MN, formerly of Hastings, MN, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025.
Caroline was born July 27, 1939, in Decorah, Iowa, to parents Merle and Mary (Smith) Fender. She married Donald Henriksen on July 27, 1957, at the historic Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, Iowa. In 1961, they settled in Hastings, Minnesota, where Don served as a police officer for 32 years, retiring as a sergeant, and Caroline began a long and dedicated career as a secretary at Smead Manufacturing. Together, they built a life around faith, family, and community.
Caroline had a deep love for her family, her church, gardening, and the joy of antiquing.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; son-in-law, Brett Behnke; and her parents.
Caroline is survived by her three children: Kevin (Michelle) Henriksen, Sherry (Gery) Wagner, and Tracie Behnke; ten grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings: Gary (Pat) Fender, Toni Miller, Martha Woofter, Kristine (Ken) Rieger, and Mary Fender; as well as sisters-in-law, Linda May and SueAnn DuVall.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033. A visitation will take place from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., prior to the service at Starkson's. Following the service, all are invited to remain at the chapel for a reception and continued time of fellowship.
Magnus James Henderson
Magnus James Henderson, age 13, of Prescott, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on May 10, 2025. His sudden passing has left his family heartbroken, as they mourn the loss of a boy who was deeply treasured and will be forever missed.
Magnus was born on November 16, 2011, in Hastings, Minnesota, to Amil and Carla (Bishop) Henderson. He was one of seven children in a close knit and loving family with siblings: Andre, Owen, Andaria, Violet, Ralph, and Lyra. Magnus had a gentle and generous spirit. He was known for his kind heart, his infectious smile, and his natural ability to lift the mood of those around him.
He enjoyed listening to music, singing, walking, and talking with friends. He had a creative side that especially showed in how he cared for his little sister, helping her pick out outfits and doing her hair, moments filled with laughter and love. He enjoyed making the funniest faces and being goofy around his friends and family. Magnus had a unique way of making people feel special, and his compassion and thoughtfulness were beyond his years.
He loved to sing, and the theater gave him a place to express that and connect with others. He was a thoughtful friend and a bright light to his family, someone whose presence brought joy and comfort.
At this time, no public services are planned. The Henderson family is grateful for the love and support they have received and asks for continued kindness and understanding as they navigate this profound loss.
Robert R. Heizler
Robert R. Heizler, age 86, of Hastings, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, at Benedictine Living Community, surrounded by his loving family.
Bob was born on September 7, 1938, in Phillips, Wisconsin, to Rudolph and Kathryn (Zubcack) Heizler. He grew up on the family's mink ranch and often shared stories from that unique chapter of his life. After graduating from Phillips High School in 1956, Bob proudly served in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he married the love of his life, Karen Plein, in 1962 in Phillips. Together, they raised two children, Rick and Jennifer.
The family spent many years in Milwaukee before returning to Phillips in 2006. Two years ago, Bob moved to Hastings to be closer to his daughter, Jennifer, and her family.
Bob had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping with his son, Rick. In his later years, he could often be found watching TV, especially NASCAR and football, and cheering on his favorite teams. He was happiest when surrounded by his grandchildren, whom he adored and loved to spoil. Bob had a sharp, unfiltered sense of humor and a gift for telling it like it was. More than anything, he loved being a dad and grandpa.
He is survived by his children, Rick (Tina) Heizler and Jennifer (Don) Henderson; grandchildren, Steven, Savanah, and Amber Henderson, and Mari (Ekin) Lentz Koker; siblings, Pat (Aaron Berg) Heizler and Diane Martinek; brothers in law, Don Plein and Arvid (Kathy) Plein; sisters in law, Linda Heizler and Joanne Plein; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen; his parents; brother, Kenny Heizler; sister in law, Bonnie Plein; and brothers in law, Bob Plein and Steve Martinek.
No services will be held at this time. A graveside service at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery in Phillips, Wisconsin, will be held at a later date.
Michele Lee "Mimi" Warden
Michele Lee "Mimi" Warden, age 74, recently of Hastings, peacefully passed away on May 27, 2025.
She leaves behind cherished memories and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held.
Daniel "Dan" Pugh
Daniel "Dan" Allen Pugh, age 76, of Hastings, passed away peacefully at his home on May 27, 2025.
Dan was a man who deeply loved the outdoors and made the most of every sunny day. Whether it was tending to his yard or trying out the latest gadgets on his riding lawn mower, he found joy in being outside and staying busy. A skilled craftsman, he spent countless hours building detailed wood model ships, a passion that echoed his adventurous spirit. That same spirit led him to sail across Lake Superior multiple times, creating memories he cherished.
More than anything, Dan loved being with his family. He was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved, sharing stories, laughter, and time together.
Dan is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Patricia (Miller) Pugh; and by his brother, Patrick Pugh.
He is survived by his two sons, Chad Allen (Ellen) Pugh of Big Lake, MN and Ryan Daniel (Rachel) Pugh of Cologne, MN; six grandchildren, Jaryd, Mehgan Cameron, Mason, Evan, Logan; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Michael (Dianne) Pugh of Hastings; sister, Mary Caturia (Charles) of Hastings; goddaughter, Alecia (Chris) Ankrum of Hastings; and by many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.
Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings with a visitation one hour prior to the time of the service. Interment at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery, Hastings.
Mark J. Hetzel
Mark J. Hetzel, age 77, passed on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at his home in Hastings surrounded by his family.
Mark was born May 7, 1948, in Milwaukee, WI to Norman and Evelyn Hetzel. He grew up in West Allis, WI, where he graduated from Nathan Hale High School. Mark attended UW-River Falls and then transferred to UW-Stout, where he got a degree in Industrial Arts. He later returned to UW-River Falls and earned his Masters in Education. Mark taught in Dodgeville, WI for 14 years. He later moved to Hastings, MN, where he taught until his retirement in 2002. Mark married his wife, Joanne, in June 1969 and later welcomed two daughters.
Mark is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Joanne; along with his children: Hanne (Jason) Reiger of Machesney Park, IL and Heather Arneson of Hastings, MN. Mark’s heart belonged to his grandchildren: Brooke, Brandyn, Jenna and Wyatt. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Charlie, Suzanne, Peter, Christopher, and Katelynn; along with sisters-in-law, Hannelore of CA and Brenda of WI.
Mark was welcomed into heaven by his parents; his mother-in-law, Happy LeMoine; brothers-in-law, Raymond and Ted; and the one he was most excited to see, his beloved dog.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 11AM with a visitation from 10 AM -11 AM at Resurrection United Methodist Church 615 15th Street West, Hastings. Mark was a jeans and t-shirt kind of guy. The event will be comfortable and casual to promote sharing of his memories and laughs, just as he would want it. A private family burial will take place at a later date.
Catherine Jo Paulson
Catherine J. Paulson, age 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at her home in Hastings surrounded by her family.
She was born the daughter of Paul and Claire Pederson on October 13, 1955 in Hastings MN. Catherine attended Hastings High School. She married Donald Paulson on October 1, 1977 in Hastings, MN at Saint Boniface Church.
She loved gardening and spending time with the grandchildren. Catherine always walked their dog, Daisy and loved going on rides in the countryside in the morning and evening. She could always find a deal at garage sales. Catherine enjoyed going fishing out on the boat.
Catherine loved her family and spending time at home, crafting, especially decorations. She always fed the albino squirrels.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Claire Pederson; brothers, Steve and John Pederson; beloved dog, Daisy.
Catherine is survived by her husband, Don; children, Brianne, Dustin (Tonya Scribner), Tom; grandchildren, Lucas Gilbert and Levi Gilbert, Tyler and Kaitlyn; siblings, Laurie Hamann, Lu (Bill) Steinbaugh, Sue Sandkamp, Tracy Lytle; sister-in-law, "Pinkie" Pederson; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 11-2PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel (3075 Vermillion Street Hastings MN 55033) with refreshments throughout the Celebration.
Jeffrey Wayne Kallestad
Jeffrey Wayne Kallestad, age 75, passed away peacefully on May 9th, 2025 after living an amazing life. He was an incredible husband, father and grandpa who always put family first.
He is loved by his wife of 49 years, Mary; daughter, Shannon (Jeff) Soule; son, Jason (Krissy); and grandchildren, Zach, Ella and Ben Soule, Kaia and Solveig Kallestad. He is also survived by his brothers, Tom (Judy), Kevin (Sue), Kim (Carol); and many nieces and nephews.
Jeff was an avid outdoorsman and an eternal optimist. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, scuba diving, canoeing, golfing, playing guitar, photography and riding his Harley. He was also an Arizona Ranger and the best professional Santa.
Jeff put all his time and effort into reminding others how "FANTASTIC" they were. What he never realized was how incredible of a man HE was. Simply stated, he was one in a million.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 8th, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until1:00 p.m. at The Confluence Hotel, 200 2nd St. W., Hastings. A private family burial will follow.
Carol Ann (Mamer) McNamara
Carol Ann (Mamer) McNamara, 81, of Hastings MN, passed away on May 3, 2025 from complications of Alzheimers.
Carol was a lifelong resident of Hastings. She was valedictorian of her class in 1962 and worked in the Cooper Elementary School library for many years. Carol was very industrious and had many hobbies including sewing, square dancing, gardening, and keeping active with walking, biking and regular visits to the YMCA. She balanced her active lifestyle with a healthy appetite, especially for peanut butter, dilly bars, and wedding cake. She was a committed grandmother who always made time for visits, sports games, band concerts, and sleepovers.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gervase Mamer, Laura (Haas) Mamer; and grandson, Nicolas Aardappel.
Carol is survived by husband, John R. McNamara; children, Annette (Tim), Bryan (Jina), John (Linda); grandchildren, Jacob, Daniel, Olivia, Roman, Kian, Frances; great-grandchild, Harper Ann; brother, Charlie (Cindy); sister, Mary (Steve); nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 23, 2025 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Hastings with a visitation one hour prior to the time of the Mass at church. Immediately following the Mass, a reception will be held at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, Hastings.
Bernard Albert Schroeder
Bernard "Bernie" A. Schroeder, 78, of Hastings, MN passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 at his residence.
Bernie was born in Luxembourg to John B. and Jean T (Moitzheim) Schroeder on July 6th, 1946. He went to high school at Hastings High and graduated in 1964. He went on to earn his degree in Automotive Tech. He began his working days with the gas company. He then started working in the HVAC business for over 40 years as a foreman and service technician for businesses in Red Wing, MN. He enjoyed being outside, working on machinery, woodworking, doing farming, watching his grandkids grow, spending time with family and their dog, Tasha. He will be truly missed.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Addie; and his parents, John and Jean.
He is survived by his 3 children: John (Kassandra) Schroeder, Jamie (Kevin) Peterson, Joseph (Veronica) Schroeder; 6 grandchildren; Noah, Issac, Joshua, Aaron, Jocelyn, and Julianne. He is also survived by many friends and family.
Although losing both Bernie and Addie in such a short amount of time is hard, we are all taking comfort in knowing that they are with each other and at peace dancing, snowmobiling, and driving around in their Plymouth. They have left long lasting memories in all of our hearts and we will cherish the FOREVER!!! WE LOVE YOU BOTH AND WILL MISS YOU FOREVER AND ALWAYS!!!
A visitation for Bernard will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, MN, with a funeral service to immediately follow the visitation.
Interment will be St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery in Hastings, MN.
Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handing arrangements.
