Hometown News
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Commitment or quit … it’s up to you -By Harvey Mackay
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A chicken and a pig were walking down the road together when they came across a sign for a local charity breakfast that was raising money for a good cause. The sign read, “Ham and Eggs Breakfast: Help Us Raise Money!”
The chicken turned to the pig and said, “Hey, we should contribute to this breakfast!”
The pig thought for a moment and replied, “That’s easy for you to say. For you, it’s a contribution. For me, it’s a total commitment!”
The humor in this story highlights the difference between being involved and being truly committed. While the chicken can simply lay an egg and move on, the pig must give everything for the breakfast. It serves as a reminder that true commitment often requires going beyond the surface level and fully dedicating oneself to the cause at hand.
Walter Cronkite, the legendary evening newsman, said, “I can’t imagine a person becoming a success who doesn’t give this game of life everything he’s got.”
In the pursuit of success, be the pig, not the chicken. Total commitment is where the real impact lies.
Fortunately for us humans, we don’t need to make the same commitment as the pig to be successful. But if a project or a goal or a promise is worth achieving, true commitment will likely require some tough decisions and sacrifices. If something is worth doing, resolve to do it well.
One of my closest friends, Lou Holtz, the Hall-of-Fame college football coach, believes there are four things any person or organization needs to be number one. The first he says, “you have to make a commitment to excellence.”
When you are interested in doing something, you do it when circumstances permit. However,
when you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.
Commitment is a prerequisite to success. Commitment is the state of being bound –emotionally, intellectually or both – to a course of action. Commitment starts with a choice and is sustained by dedication and perseverance. Actions speak louder than words.
Have you ever seen a team run on the field yelling, “We want to be number two?” Everyone wants to be number one. Those who actually achieve it are those who are committed enough to put the blood, sweat and tears into their effort.
Commitment in the workplace is a crucial element that drives both personal and organizational success. When employees are committed to their work, they are more likely to be productive, motivated and aligned with the company’s goals.
Here are some key aspects of encouraging employee commitment:
Ownership and responsibility. Employees who are committed take ownership of their tasks and responsibilities. They are proactive in seeking solutions and are accountable for their actions.
Engagement and passion. Committed employees are genuinely interested in their work. They find meaning and purpose in their roles, which fuels their passion and enthusiasm.
Continuous improvement. A commitment to work often includes a desire for personal and professional growth. Employees seek opportunities to learn, develop new skills and improve their performance. As managers, it is important to provide development opportunities. Offer training and development programs to help employees grow and advance in their careers.
Alignment with organizational goals. When employees understand and align with the company’s mission and values, their commitment strengthens. They see their work as contributing to a larger purpose. Organizations need to ensure that employees understand the company’s goals and how their work contributes to them.
Resilience and persistence. Committed employees demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges. They persist through difficulties and remain focused on achieving their objectives. Teamwork and collaboration. Commitment also involves working well with others. Employees who are committed to their work often foster a collaborative environment, supporting and encouraging their colleagues. Create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that values employee contributions and well-being.
Recognition. Acknowledge and reward employees for their hard work and achievements to reinforce their commitment.
Set the example. Recognize that commitment starts at the top. Employees can tell the difference between a boss who is just as devoted to the mission and a boss who takes credit while others do the heavy lifting.
In typical form, comedian Bill Murray highlighted one notable exception to this advice when he quipped, “Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re donating blood.”
Mackay’s Moral: Commitment is the fuel that drives the engine of success – nurture it and your organization will thrive.
Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller “Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” “We Got Fired!...And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us,” “The Mackay MBA of Selling in the Real World,” and “Use Your Head To Get Your Foot In The Door.”
Upcoming Events
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
• Upsala Heritage Festival. Parade at 4 p.m. See ad on page 7
• 37th Annual Grey Eagle Fire Dept. Corn on the Cob & Pork Feed from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Grey Eagle Fire Hall. See ad on page 8.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10
• Church of Seven Dolors Parish Bazaar starting at 10 a.m. in Albany. See ad on page 7.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
• Freeport Lions Club American Red Cross Blood Drive from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20
• Grey Eagle Senior Citizens Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Potluck & Bingo to follow at the Grey Eagle Senior Center.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24
• St. Francis of Assisi 69th Annual Fall Festival starting at 10 a.m. See ad on page 7.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 31
• Catholic United Financial Pancake & Sausage Breakfast from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church Hall, Grey Eagle.
AL-ANON • AVON
• Meets every Monday from 5-6 p.m. at the Avon City Hall.
ALBANY SENIORS
• Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Albany Community Center.
ALBANY TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 4th Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
• Planning Commission meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany City Hall.
BURNHAMVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Burtrum City Hall.
BURTRUM CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FEET FIRST CLINIC
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
• Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution 1st Saturday of the Month from 10-11 a.m. at River of Live Church, Sauk Centre.
FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
FREEPORT SENIOR MEETING
• Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. with cards/Bingo/coffee/dessert.
GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 8 p.m.
LINE DANCING
• Meets Mondays at 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. alternating Mondays at the Melrose American Legion.
MELROSE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the town hall.
MELROSE VFW #7050 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion Clubrooms.
MELROSE LEGION #101 POST/AUX.
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Melrose American Legion. (Aux. Sept.-May.)
STEARNS CO. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
• Meets the 2nd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albany SUNSHINE CLUB
• Meets every Monday, weigh in starts at 8; meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Village View Apartments, Grey Eagle.
ST. ROSA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Community Park building.
SWANVILLE CITY COUNCIL
• 1st Tuesday after the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
SWANVILLE TOWNSHIP
• Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 8:30 p.m. at the Swanville Fire Hall.
UPSALA CITY COUNCIL
• Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne
Reunion and History
A few weeks ago, I received a phone call from a cousin, telling me there were plans for an Asmus family reunion. I was very surprised by the call, especially since we have never had a reunion previously. During our younger years, our parents took us to the homes of their brothers and sisters, all within a very few miles to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and holidays every week. We as kids spent a great deal of time together, but after the parents were no longer here, the cousins were involved in their own personal families and the reunion was something that was very enjoyable.
One of my cousins gave me copies of a book ACH DU LIEBER written by H. Bill Way one of the relatives, which included experiences that occurred in migrating from Germany to the US and the challenges created by starting a new farm southwest of Sauk Centre and the things they had to do to survive the 1930’s.
The original farm was located near a town called Unity, which had a creamery, general store, blacksmith shop, barber shop, a studio, post office a school and a saloon. The town no longer exists. The first “farm” consisted of 19 acres and by working the few acres and by working for the neighbors, the family survived. This location was purchased in 1897. In 1900, William Quade purchased 80 acres bordering the original land for $1400.00. This property was located in Getty Township, Stearns County, MN. William’s wife Helena at the age of 5 1/2, and her family migrated to the US in 1889. They moved here after reading about the wonderful land in Stearns County. Sigfred Asmus, her father, was offered $1200.00 from a wealthy merchant to buy Helena, since he and his wife had no children. $1200.00 was a large sum of money in those days. Sigfred was tempted, but mother Wilhelmina said “no,” so the transaction didn’t occur. Some of the family
farmed in Stearns County, referred to as the “prairie” and the rest moved north by Grey Eagle, which was referred to as the “bush.” Both locations proved to be successful. In 1903 Helena and William were married and raised 8 children. When one of their children was born in 1911, the doctor arrived driving a new 1911 automobile, instead of a horse and buggy. His fee for delivery of a child increased from $12.00 to $15.00. After WW 1, the area was severely hit by the flu, which in many cases involved whole families at one time. Flu deaths were common in many families.
One interesting story happened in 1914. Baby Edna was tightly wrapped in a blanket on the couch in the living room. She usually slept, but on this day kept crying. Mother Helena went to comfort her and noticed some unusual movement under the blanket. It was a large snake. She grabbed the baby and went outside to get William, who took a pitchfork into the house, found the snake in the kitchen and beheaded it. He then walked out of the house with the snake swinging from the pitchfork, the hero of the day.
The part of the family that lived in the “prairie” were constantly searching for fuel to cook and heat the home. The kids searched under the few trees for sticks and along the railroad tracks for dropped coal. Many times the wood heating stove remained off, since there was no fuel. The “bush” country had plenty of fuel from the surrounding forest. There were some interesting ways to enhance life during the 1930’s. One was the
From the Desk of Pastor Bruce
Have you ever wondered? I’m going to leave that question there for a while. Before I respond to that question let me just make a few comments. What about natural disasters floods, earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, cyclones, and tornadoes that seem to be plaguing our world or what about political unrest in our world? These are not just in America but all over our world. Have you ever wondered why all of this is happening? The Bible tells us why, let’s have a look.
Matthew 24:3-14 “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8All these are the beginning of birth pains. 9“Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. 10At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11and many false
prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 14And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
This article is sort of like a warning! God is trying to get our attention. Jesus’ return is coming very soon! Some may hear this and say… “Ya right, people have been saying that for thousands of years.” And I would say, you are right! 2 Peter 3:8-9 “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Repent! The day of the Lord is near.
-Pastor Bruce Miller from Swanville Bible Church, 320-547-2916
Chris' Country Store
Hours: Wed.-Sun.: 7 AM-2 PM Closed Mon. & Tues. If you need flowers, order online or email Chris at tcjr5933@gmail.com
MONDAY: 4-8 PM Full Kitchen Open!
TUESDAY: 5-9 PM Burger Night $4.00 1/3 lb. Fresh Ground Hamburger on Brioche Buns! Dine In w/Beverage Purchase
THURSDAY: 5-9 PM
Includes Salad Bar & Choice of Potato
• Chicken & Ribs $17.95
• 8 oz. Ground Sirloin $15.95
• Creamy Sweet Chili Haddock w/Wild Rice $17.95
WEDNESDAY: 11 AM-9 PM Domestic Beers: 2 for $6
• 1-1/2 lb. Wings $7.00
• $7 Baskets Your Choice: Shrimp Basket, Angus Slider Basket, 1/4 Chicken Basket, Nachos or Quesadillas w/Beverage Purchase Specials to go $1.00 charge
Choice of Potato
• Prime Rib $26.95
• Ribs $20.95
• Deep Fried Walleye $17.95
• Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken, Wild Rice, w/Breadsticks $14.95
Darlene A. Deters-Maslow
Darlene A. Deters-Maslow, age 89 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at St. Benedict’s Senior Community in St. Cloud, Minnesota. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, August 6 at St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union with Rev. Mark Botzet officiating. Inurnment was in the parish cemetery.
Darlene Anne Peckskamp was born July 22, 1936 in Ward Springs, Minnesota to Henry and Clara (Terwey) Peckskamp. She attended grade school in Ward Springs and later moved to Waite Park where she graduated from Cathedral High School. After graduation, Darlene worked at Minnesota National Bank in Sauk Centre. She was united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Deters on May 22, 1956 at St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union. The couple raised their family on a farm where Bob grew up near West Union. Darlene later worked at Stearns County Social Services until her retirement.
In 1992, Bob passed away and years later, Darlene met Vernon “Vern” Maslow and was united in marriage on August 28, 1999. They enjoyed traveling and spending winters in Texas together. Darlene loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. They were truly important to her as well as her faith. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, researching family history by traveling to places and on the internet, and recorded what she had learned.
Survivors include her husband, Vern Maslow of St. Cloud; children, Brenda (Marty) Sunderman of Sauk Centre, Joseph (Judy) Deters of Sauk Centre, David Deters of Sauk Centre, and Julie (Don) Brown of Alberta, Alabama; step-son, Michael Maslow of Stanchfield; ten grandchildren, Jeremy, Jessie, Jenna, Trisha, Lisa, Ben, Kurt, Joey, Andrea, and Casey; 22 great-grandchildren and two great-greatgrandchildren; and sister, Judy Groth of St. Cloud.
Darlene was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Deters on August 12, 1992; parents; and brothers, Jerry and David Peckskamp.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Pearl A. Gamradt
Pearl A. Gamradt, age 75, of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on July 29, 2025, at her home in Melrose, Minnesota. A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 8 at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre. Visitation will be from 9 to11 a.m. with a prayer service following, officiated by Ralph Revermann. Inurnment will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Sauk Centre following the prayer service.
Pearl Ann was born August 11, 1949 in Melrose, Minnesota to Leander Korte and Lillian (Kean) Korte. She graduated from St. Cloud Tech in 1967 and was a member of the aquatics team. She lived as a resident in Melrose, Fargo, St. Cloud, Twin Cities and Sauk Centre. She married Albert E. Gamradt, of Sauk Centre, on Oct. 14, 1972 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sauk Centre.
In her lifetime, she worked as an executive secretary, a nurse’s aide, owned and operated a used store, waitressed at Trucker’s Inn, dispatched for Sauk Centre Police Department, gas station clerk at Trucker’s Inn, and finally an Office Administrative Specialist before retirement. Her passions included being a published poet, pianist, singer, florist, gardener, crocheter, refurbisher, ceramics painter, and digital scrap booker. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and sister who was beautiful, clever, quick-witted, smart, endlessly creative, strong-willed, and nurturing.
She is survived by her four children: son, Wayne (Char) Gamradt of Long Prairie, and children, Hagen (Abbey), Ariana (Zach) Miller [children: Jettson, Roy, Della], Oren (Logan), Nora (Kellen), Elyse; daughter, Melissa (Jay) Knopik of Melrose, and children Lyneah, Aliyah; son, Jeff (Stephanie) Gamradt of Sauk Centre, and children Logan (Breanna), Connor, Carter; son, Brent (Amy) Gamradt, Paynesville, and children Blake, Abby (Jacob); sisters: Jan Burlet of Sauk Centre and Marion Schmitz of Foley; brothers: Dennis Korte of Sauk Centre and Duane Korte of St. Cloud.
Preceded in death by her loving husband, Albert; her parents; sisters Geraldine Moening and Lidia Stang; nephew Eric Schmitz; grandbaby Gamradt; mother and father-in-law Earl and Alvina Gamradt, and brother-in-law Gary Gamradt.
Urn bearer will be her grandson, Hagen Gamradt; cross bearer granddaughter, Lyneah Knopik; and scripture bearer grandson, Logan Gamradt.
Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
Thaddeus “Ted” Skwira
Thaddeus
“Ted” Skwira, 92 year old resident of Bowlus, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Friday, August 1st at Vitality Living of Upsala. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, August 5th at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Bowlus with Father Greg Paffel officiating. The burial was held at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
Ted was born on September 10th, 1932, to parents Mathilda (Zwak) and Felix Skwira on their family farm in Opole. He grew up on the farm learning the value of a day’s hard work. In 1950, he graduated from Holdingford High School. Ted joined the Army on November 19th, 1953, and served his country in the Korean War. After leaving the Army, he worked as a milk hauler and a hobby farmer before starting his own carpentry business. Ted was united in marriage to Cheryl Headley on November 5th, 1966, in St. Mary’s Church in Upsala. The couple made their home in Bowlus, where they raised their four children.
Ted enjoyed working hard to provide for his family and had a deep connection to his faith. A passionate catholic, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus for many years. He was also proud of his time in the service and was a member of the Bowlus American Legion Post #0642 for fifty-two years, and even served as commander for two years. In his free time, Ted enjoyed playing bingo and pull tabs, going to the casino, and gardening. He will be remembered as a faithful, hard-working man who always enjoyed a cold beer with family and friends.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cheryl Skwira; children, Cindy (Rudy) Skwira, Tom (Patty) Skwira, Terry (Jacqueline) Skwira, and Cristy (Joe) Lahr; siblings, Ernest, Annette, Leona, Phyllis, Alphonse, Sr. Grace, Raymond, Dianne, Dennis, Jane, Gladys, Iris; his nine grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings Albin, Loretta, and Bernadette.
Emblom Brenny Funeral Service is Cherishing the Memory and Celebrating the Life of Ted
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., Aug. 11: Pork chop, whipped potatoes, gravy, green beans, jello, bread.
Tues., Aug. 12: Chicken alfredo, noodles, Asian vegetables, cake.
Wed., Aug. 13: Sausage, egg & cheese burrito, hashbrowns, fruit cocktail, cinnamon roll.
Thurs., Aug. 14: Meatloaf, whipped potatoes, gravy, Scandinavia vegetables, bread.
Fri., Aug. 15: Pork tenderloin, cheesy potatoes, vegetable Normandy, cookie, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
Joan M. Gerads
Joan M. Gerads, age 64 of St. Francis, passed away unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, August 8 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis with Rev. Jimmy Joseph officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis.
Joan Marie Renneker was born January 26, 1961 in Melrose, Minnesota to Alcuin and Loretta (Dullinger) Renneker. She graduated from Melrose High School in 1980. She was united in marriage to Michael “Mike” Gerads on August 22, 1981 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. Joan enjoyed working with the elderly as a care giver at area nursing homes including Albany, Upsala, St. Cloud, and most recently in Little Falls.
She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis. Joan enjoyed birdwatching, flower gardening, bowling, and was obsessed with Christmas. The Christmas tree is up and lit year-round and the Christmas music never stops at Joan’s house!
Survivors include her husband, Mike Gerads of St. Francis; children, Denise Gerads (Brian Abraham) of Upsala, Diane Gerads of Upsala, Deanna Gerads of Aliceville, Alabama, Frank (Alley) Gerads of St. Francis, Michael, Jr. (Harley) Gerads of St. Francis, Alison (Andrew) Kulla of Elmdale, and William Gerads of Grey Eagle; 11 grandchildren; and sisters, Julie (Jerry) Gerads of Melrose, Jean Kidrowski of Willmar, Jeanette (Tom) Gerads of Freeport, Jill (Ray) Kurowski of Long Prairie, Janice (Dave) Guse of Holdingford, and Jodi Johnson of Long Prairie; mother & father-in-law Doreen and Frank Gerads of St. Francis.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Alcuin Renneker on April 9, 2018 and Loretta Renneker on February 15, 2022; brother, Jim Renneker on May 1, 2018; infant sons, Clemens, Mark, and Matthew; and an infant sister, Mary Renneker.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Tom Kuehne continued from pg 3 building of mattresses using corn husks for comfort. The kids worked away from home for $2.00 per week. Due to the drought, some farmers moved their cattle to the open, wooded range in Northern Minnesota. Each landowner in a township must contribute 3 or 4 days hauling gravel on township roads. The first wooden washing machines had 3 legs extending under the cover, which had a wheel with a handle that was moved back and forth by hand to wash the clothes. A ringer was also cranked by hand. White clothes were boiled to create the original white color. Clothes were then hung on the clothes line, both in the winter and summer. The Christmas Tree “Tonnen Baum” was decorated with candles, which were lit on Christmas Eve. Easter eggs were colored by boiling them with onion skins or coffee
Frank F. Gerads
Frank F. Gerads, age 90 of St. Francis, passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, August 4, 2025 at his home in St. Francis, Minnesota.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 12 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis with Rev. Jimmy Joseph officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesday at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis.
Frank Gerads was born October 19, 1934 in Freeport, Minnesota to Charles and Loretta (Harren) Gerads. He was united in marriage to Doreen Douvier on September 29, 1959 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in St. Francis. Frank worked for Stearns County Highway Department in Albany before working as a mechanic for Kramer and Soltis in Holdingford. Frank and Doreen purchased a farm near St. Francis and farmed for many years. He did heavy equipment construction, was a mechanic, and an operator for his brother, Norbert Gerads and later for his nephew, Dave Gerads. He enjoyed operating equipment so much that he purchased his own equipment so he could “play” in the dirt.
Frank was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing cards, especially with his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, tinkering in his shop, and fixing and building things. He would only buy something if he could not make it.
Survivors include his wife, Doreen Gerads of St. Francis, sons, Michael “Mike” Gerads of St. Francis, Tom (Jeanette) Gerads of Freeport, and Jerry (Julie) Gerads of Melrose; 14 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Magdalen “Toots” Schwanke of St. Cloud, Loretta (Herbert) Thull of Melrose, Jake (Judy) Gerads of Freeport, Dolores Linn of St. Cloud, Bertha Herdering of Upsala, and Gilbert (Carol) Gerads of Freeport; sister-in-law, Angie Gerads of Albany, in-laws, Eugene Douvier of Randall, Irene (Rod) Gerads of Albany, Jim (Judy) Douvier of Avon, Allan (Renee) Douvier of St. Francis, and Rita Douvier of Florida, and Victor Tschida of Albany. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Loretta Gerads; father and motherin-law, Frank and Rose (Van Heel) Douvier daughter-in-law, Joan Gerads July 31, 2025, three grandchildren; one great-grandson; sisters, Martha Gerads, Sister Marie Gerads, O.S.B., and Elizabeth Bechtold; brothers, Martin, Jerome, Joseph, Bernard, John, Norbert, and Herbie Gerads; in-law, Mildred Gerads, Ambrose Herdering, Dean Schwanke, Dennis Linn, Alphonse Bechtold, Dorothy Gerads, Beatrice Tschida, Jeanette Tschida, Melvin Douvier, and Diane Becker.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
grounds to make them yellow or brown. Bread was commonly spread with lard or bacon grease. Huck ‘a’ Fet, or as we called it simply Huck Fet, was made of ground raw goose fat with salt, pepper and marjoram added as a delicious bread spread. Cottage cheese and potatoes were common meal additions.
Making a new life in Minnesota required a great deal of work and ingenuity and our ancestors had a lot of both. Has it been passed down to us?
For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at kuehneins@gmail.com.
If you need help with Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343
Roland F. “Rollie” Gilk
Roland F. “Rollie” Gilk, age 89 of Albany, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta, Minnesota. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 7 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with Rev. Julius Beckermann, O.S.B. officiating and Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B. concelebrating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.
Visitation will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the Seven Dolors Gathering Area in Albany.
Roland Frederick Gilk was born December 30, 1935 in Albany Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Jacob and Clara (Weinmann) Gilk. He graduated from Albany High School. After graduation, he had several jobs before starting his 61year career as a custodian and school bus driver at Albany Area High School. Rollie’s dedication and never saying “no” attitude earned him a spot on the Academic Wall of Honor at the high school. On August 12, 1958, he was united in marriage to Mathilda “Tillie” Garding at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. In 1973, he began working with Bob Brenny with the ambulance service and as a funeral assistant at Schaefer Brenny Funeral Home in Albany. He continued working as a funeral assistant when it became Brenny Funeral Homes of Albany and Holdingford. After working for Bob and Pat Brenny at the funeral home for many years, Rollie joined the staff at PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services in 2004. He truly enjoyed working at the funeral home and socializing with people. Rollie and Tillie owned and operated Albany Country Floral and Gifts for many years. He enjoyed bowling in a league, dancing, and traveling, but most of all, his greatest joy was spending time with his family.
Rollie was a life-long member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany where he served as an usher. He was also a member of the Albany Fire Department for 32 years, Albany Lion’s Club for 47 years, Knights of Columbus Father Pierz Council #3628, Catholic United Financial #400, and Heritage Society.
Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Tillie Gilk of Albany; children, Susan (Dale) Spanier of Paynesville, Janet (Steve) Notch of Freeport, Linda (Leon) Toenies of Albany, Joseph (Sandy) Gilk of St. Joseph, and John (Tammy) Gilk of Richmond; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, soon to be 15; sister, Connie (Gene) Chock of Albany; and many nieces and nephews.
Rollie was preceded in death by his parents; two infant children, Roland and Mary; brothers and sisters and in-laws, Herbert (Gertie) Gilk, Lucetta (Joe) Lischwe, Oliver Gilk, and Aldamae (Ray) Mayers.
Memorials are preferred to Holy Family School in Albany and Quiet Oaks Hospice House.
Arrangements were entrusted with PattonSchad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.
Sytek Receives Grant to Expand Services
Upsala Cooperative Telephone Assn. dba Sytek in Upsala, MN has plowed fiber optic cable to the home (FTTH) over the past several years in the communities of Upsala, Bowlus, Sobieski, Flensburg, Swanville and rurally around Holdingford, Pillsbury, Lake Beauty and Moose Lake. Sytek was able to do some of these areas, with the help of state and federal grants that they received.
Tony Gebhard, CEO/ General Manager of Sytek is now excited to announce that Sytek has been awarded another federal grant in the amount of 3.4 million dollars. Sytek would like to thank Morrison County for contributing $5,000 to this project. This is in the rural areas of south and southwest of Little Falls in Morrison County.
Through this partnership with the federal and state government, Sytek will extend FTTH to some of the most rural parts of Minnesota at service levels up to 1 Gbps download and 1 Gbps upload, exceeding the 2022 and 2026 state speed goals. As a result of this project, families will have the tools they need to earn a living, educate their children and access needed medical care.
This new last mile project will allow Sytek to plow approximately 85 miles of FTTH to roughly 415 homes that are adjacent to Sytek’s existing fiber optic plant in the counties of Morrison, Stearns and Todd.
Along with high-speed internet that Sytek is offering, VoIP telephone service is available. Customers are able to keep their existing telephone number, they will have free unlimited long distance phone service as well as voice mail, call forwarding, call waiting and many other features too numerous to mention.
These grants allow Sytek customers in these areas FREE plowing of the fiber to their
home as well as a free router, free modem and three months of free internet service. Once the grant period is over, any unused money must be returned and this FREE offering may no longer be available.
Sytek will be reaching out and mailing information to every address in these areas in early 2026. If a customer would like service in these new areas, it is imperative that the customer contact Sytek as soon as possible to get in place to receive this new service as early as possible.
Go to Sytek’s website www.sytekcom. com, and click on “Service Availability” and put in your address to see if you will fall into these FTTH projects! If you don’t fall into these areas call and see how we may be able to serve you.
If you have questions or would like additional information, please call Sytek at your earliest convenience at 320-573-1390 or go to our website for more info.
Asmus family reunion was held at Shattuck’s Hub Supper Club on July 19. Pictured are the children of Melvin, Vern, Arden, Wilma, Ruby and Lenora.
Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game.
Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey
Dear Dave, Our son used to own and run his own small business, until it went bankrupt a few months ago. We let him move in with us, because he hasn’t been able to find another job and had nowhere else to turn. My husband and I are both getting close to retirement age, and we’re not sure what to do in order to get our son on his feet and back out in the world again.
-Elisabeth
Dear Elisabeth,
As a parent, I understand where you’re coming from. You don’t want to kick a kid when he’s down, but you don’t want to participate in, or allow him to wallow around in, a bunch of self-pity. Everyone needs a little time to catch their breath when really bad things happen. But right now, you need to help him reset his mind and start taking practical steps toward being a productive, self-sufficient adult again.
First off, let’s define what helping your son really means. In my mind, you haven’t helped him at all if he’s still living with
you a year from now. That’s called being an enabler. But it’s not going to help him if you just shove him out the door saying, “You’re a man! Handle it!” I think you and your husband—together—should formulate a progressive plan somewhere between those two extremes. One that includes a deadline date for him to move out, but in the meantime helps him rebuild his dignity and self-respect.
As part of living with you, I’d require him to do a few things. One is that he abides by your household rules. If he’s going to live in your home, he should help out around the place and behave in ways you and your husband consider appropriate. Another, is thinking about career steps. He could start with a part-time job to get some money in his pockets. Then, help him actively work on long-term career goals and how to attain them.
And don’t let him neglect his physical and mental wellbeing during all this. He needs to be engaged in some kind of regular physical activity, even if you and your husband pay for it temporarily. An inexpensive gym membership, or used exercise equipment would be a great start. Exercise also stimulates the mind, and he needs that right now, too.
Going through what your son has experienced is tough on anyone, at any age. It can lead to depression if you don’t engage regularly in activities and goal setting. Encourage him, Elisabeth. Walk with him during this time. If he’s not involved with a good church, this would be a great time for him to start looking for one.
Your son has plenty of productive years ahead of him. He just needs a little love and support to get him back on his feet and moving again.
-Dave
* Leadership and small-business expert Dave Ramsey is the CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored eight national bestselling books, including “EntreLeadership,” and he’s a host of “The Ramsey Show” and “The EntreLeadership Podcast.”
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I want to repair the rear defroster on my Chrysler Town and Country van. We haul a lot of stuff in the van for our small business and over the years items have scratched the defroster grid on the glass, and I assume that is why it does not work. The button on the dash still lights up. What do I need to do to fix the grid? Some spots are scratched up to an inch or so.
-Mark in Cushing, Oklahoma
Dear Mark,
If you have any spots in the defroster grid that are cut you will have an open circuit and that will stop the operation of the defroster. The grid needs to be protected from objects that may scratch it or from things like ordinary tape. We have seen many temporary license plates taped to the window and when removed the grid gets torn. One way to protect a working grid is with window tint if it is legal in your area. Repairing a broken grid can be tricky. There is a liquid product available at some parts stores that will bridge the gap of a cut wire, but it is not meant for long gaps such as you described. If you have several cuts with some being extensive you may opt to replace the glass with a good used part. A used replacement rear glass is a much cheaper alternative to get your defroster back up and running.
-Take care, the Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
I just purchased an Infinity sedan and would like to have a second set of wheels and more aggressive tires for winter. The vehicle
also has a tiny spare that is much smaller than the other tires. I want to know if I can get another set of wheels for the car and where I would do that. I also want to know if I must stick with the smaller spare or if I can swap it out with a full-size tire.
-Steve in Nebraska City, Nebraska Dear Steve, Infinity is a nice car, and most have some very expensive factory wheels. We have several customers in our shop that use a different set of wheels with special tires for the winter season. Most of them chose to go with a set of used replacement wheels that matched what they already had but in some cases such as the more expensive wheels found on higher-end cars like Infinity, they purchased a new set of custom wheels for the drier months and used the factory wheels for the rest of the year. Your local tire shop should be able to help you with options. A full-size spare may be an option too but remember the storage space for the spare is often only large enough to store the compact spare so you may have to keep it in the trunk sliding around and taking up valuable room.
-Take care, The Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.
Card of Thanks
The family of Luetta Rohde wishes to thank all those who offered prayers, flowers, cards, gifts, attendance at her celebration of life, and support given during this time of sorrow. You are all deeply appreciated and have helped us more than you know. God bless you.
Jeannie, Cindy, Ron, Wayne, Shelly, Buddha, Sharon and Families
The Mound Lake Association would like to acknowledge and thank the many businesses who contributed gift certificates and merchandise to our annual picnic, for use in door prizes and bingo for our members: All Stars Sports Bar & Grill, Buffy’s Bar & Grill, Burtrum Cabooze, Chris’ Country Store, Double “R” Bar & Grill, Hub Supper Club, Lange’s, Lucky’s Saloon, Nana’s Kitchen, Nancy’s Bait & Tackle, Patriots Cafe, Paul & Kathy’s Supermarket, RJ’s Country Store, Rock Tavern, Schiffler’s Liquor, Shady’s Golden Eagle, The Junction. Thank you all!
The Mound Lake Association
To Submit a Card of Thanks the cost is $5.00 for the first 50 words, 10¢ for each additional word. MUST BE PREPAID. Mail to: Hometown News, 29442 120th St., Grey Eagle, MN 56336.
Heritage Day at the Borgstrom Park, Upsala
By Dianne Staricka
Upsala
Area Historical Society welcomes everyone to Borgstrom Park for Heritage Day, Aug. 9th from 12:00-3:00. Visit with this draft horse team’s owners, make your own rope, view model farm displays along with food, outdoor and indoor displays. Borgstrom House Museum will be open.
History Talk
Robert Kutter will be giving a talk about the lakes of the Grey Eagle area at the Grey Eagle Public Library on August 13 at 5:30 p.m.
Kutter will also be speaking about the history of Big Birch Lake at the annual meeting of the Big Birch Lake Association on August 16 at parish hall of St. Joseph Catholic Church at 8:30 a.m.
This is the second talk in a series of three that Kutter will present. The final presentation will by in September about the ethnic groups who settled the area.
Kutter wrote the book, A History of Grey Eagle, Minnesota, for the Grey Eagle Library Association. The book was published in 2021 and is available at the library.
St. Francis of Assisi 69th Annual Fall Festival
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Mass at 10:00 am in air conditioned church Music led by LaVerne and the Starlites
After Mass, join us for a roast beef and ham dinner with all the fixings, serving indoors and outdoors, starting at 11am.
Silent Auction throughout the day.
Grand Raffle at 7:00 pm 100+ prizes!
Live Music all day by LaVerne and the Starlites then Eagle Valley Playboys Polka sponsored by Freeport State Bank
• Food Stand • Country Store • Kids Games
Bingo
• Straw Stand
Cake Walk
Fried Bread
Pull Tabs • Fancywork and more Fun for the whole family!
RJ's Country Store
Acclimated Entry Systems
AM: POLKA MASS
SATURDAY,
2025 MEDALLION HUNT
Win $100 in Upsala Bucks, clues will be posted daily starting Monday, August 4, 9am at City Hall, All Roads Lead to Upsala (FB), cityofupsala.com and Upsala businesses. Call City Hall at 573-4950 when you find the medallion.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
6PM at Upsala Community Covenant Family Summer Bash
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
7PM at Upsala School ............... Shrek (The Upstage Junior Theater Camp)
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
AUGUST 9
HUGE 5 FAMILY GARAGE SALE: Aug. 13-15: 8am-? Clothes, household items, furniture, lots of treasures. 2475 60th Ave., Holdingford.
HUGE GARAGE-ESTATE SALE: Everything must go! Quilts. Aug. 13-15: 8-4. 809 1st. St., SE, Melrose.
SEADOO TRIXX
Jet Ski Rentals 320200-0300. Weekday Special M-Th $250/ day. S-8/28B
WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320235-2664.
SC-odB
WANTED: Geo Tracker, good shape, reasonable price. Call 320-267-5632.
RB-tfn
FOR SALE: Vibo boat lift, canopy cover needs replacement, $700 or BO. Call 320766-3119. DC-tfn
VILLAGE VIEW APARTMENTS •
• 23 - One Bedroom Apartments: Approx. 620 sq. ft.
• 1 - Two Bedroom Apartment
• Rent is 30% of income after medical deductions
• Electric heat included
• Free access to DISH Network
NOW HIRING!
Proliant Dairy Ingredients (Premier Drying Plant) is accepting applications for a full-time position in Melrose, MN
Maintenance Tech II
Stainless Steel Welding Experience Day Shift
Stainless Steel Welding experience preferred, not required 7AM - 5PM
Competitive Pay
Competitive Pay
• 10 Hour Shifts, 4 Days/Wk
• 10 Hour Shifts, 4 Days/Wk
• 1 On Call Evening Per Week and Every 4th Weekend
• Full Benefits First of the Month following hire date
• 401(K) with Generous Match
• Full Benefits First of the Month following hire date
• 401(K) with Generous Match
• Elevator and Accessible Entry door openers
• Well maintained by caretakers who care
• Raised gardens
• Controlled Access entrance door locks
• Community room with kitchen for large gatherings
• Mail delivery and pick-up in building
• Two laundry rooms, craft room, three lobby areas for visiting
• Air conditioned halls and public areas
• Friendly residents
• Monthly Board Meetings
• Annual Employee Bonus Incentive
To apply,visit www.proliantdairy.com and click on “Careers”
WANTED: Cars and pickups from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, in your weeds or sheds. 218-640-3807 or 218-756-2257.
WANTED: Gas refrigerator. Call 320-2900924. 8/14
FOR SALE: 1984 red Corvette, top comes off, 105,000 miles, automatic, $10,500 or B/O. Call 320-267-5632.
RB-tfn
FOR SALE: 1983 Ford Mustang GLX convertible, 60,000 miles, automatic, white w/ white leather interior, 3.8L, V6, kept in garage, excellent condition, $8,500. Call 320766-3119.
DC-tfn
FOR SALE: Box of kids toys & lots of Barbie accessories $15. Call 320-815-1768.
• Annual Employee Bonus Incentive
Successful completion of pre-employment physical and drug test required
FOR SALE: Craftsman 6” jointer with cabinet, excellent condition, Model #10320620, $350. Call 320-766-3119. DC-tfn FOR SALE: HP ink cartridges 67 & 95 & 98, $12 each. Call 320-894-9118.
• Pet Friendly Garages when available
For details & a tour, GIVE US A CALL!
Come JAM with us! First Wednesday of the Month from 1-3 PM (Next is Wednesday, Sept. 3.)
Village View Apartments
320-285-3973
• Email: cedar@meltel.net
303 Cedar Street N., Grey Eagle, MN 56336
FOR SALE: Thor Class A RV, 2017 ACE 27.2, Ford F53/F550 chassis, Triton 6.8L eng., good cond., 37586 miles, 2 slide-outs. $51,500 O.B.O. Text email address to 320249-7694 for photos, Carfax report. WD-tfnB
FOR SALE: Master Tow Tilt-Bed car dolly, new in 2024, used 1 time. Complete with rachet straps, light kit & tongue jack, $2,000 O.B.O. Text email address to 320249-7694 for photos. WD-tfn
