Local Municipality Minutes: Burnhamville Township Page 7
Maksim Rohde, 7, shot this turkey with his dad Terry Rohde. It was 23 pounds with a 10 1/2 inch beard! Submitted by Missy Rohde.
Obituaries
Harlan Bruns
Harlan Bruns, age 94, of Grey Eagle passed away on February 18, 2025 peacefully.
Harlan
Theodore Bruns was born on July 26, 1930 in Gibbon to Theodore & Ella (Buerkle) Bruns. He was united in marriage to Lerain Schauer on April 19, 1953 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Gibbon.
Throughout his life, Harlan was known for his love of the outdoors, particularly hunting, fishing and spending time on the water. He was an avid bowler, golfer and enjoyed meeting with friends and family each day to share stories, laughs and make lasting memories. He worked in sales for Pioneer Seed and Watkins Products. In addition, he was an MFS Bin Builder and a dedicated member of the Gibbon Fire Department. Later in life, Harlan owned and operated Bruns Bar in Gibbon, where he was a familiar face in the community.
In 1998, Harlan moved to Grey Eagle, where he resided until his passing, continuing to enjoy the activities and people he loved. Harlan was laid to rest on Saturday February 22, 2025 in Gibbon, MN.
Harlan Bruns is survived by his daughter, Tammie (John) Kaste of Dalton, MN; sons, Tim and Terry Bruns both of Gibbon, MN; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one step-great grandchild; and one great-great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his wife Lerain; his long-time companion Joan Rohde; his parents; son, Thomas; and daughter-in-law Barb Bruns.
Please join Harlan’s family and friends on Saturday, May 17th, 2025 for a celebration of life at the Burtrum Community Center, a luncheon will be served from 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Mary
L. (Sorg) Jorgensen
Mary Louise (Sorg) Jorgensen, age 77, passed to her heavenly glory on December 16, 2024 after several years of intensive care in care facilities in the Twin City area. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 on Saturday, May 10 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating and Rev. Alan Welinski concelebrating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:00 Saturday at Sacred Heart Church in Freeport.
Mary Louise (Sorg) Jorgensen was born November 10, 1947 in Melrose, MN a daughter to an immigrant father Reinhold (Ronald) Sorg and Rose K. (Overman) Sorg. She grew up in Freeport, Minnesota, a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She was baptized, received First Holy Communion and was confirmed at Sacred Heart Church. After attending Sacred Heart school she attended and graduated from Melrose High School.
She attended St. Cloud State College and started work as a secretary in a doctors office. She spent most of her years working for Hennepin County in various positions including Sheriff’s office, and Executive Secretary for Information Technology. She finished her career working for Hennepin County Medical Center.
She married Larry Jorgensen and divorced a few years later. She met the love of her life, Jay Sager through work and cherished his love for a great part of her life. She retired to her home in Coon Rapids, MN where she spent most of her retired life.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Reinhold and Rose Sorg and her brother Robert.
She is survived by her life’s significant friend Jay Sager, her sister Margaret (Meg) Schmidt (John) of Fergus Falls, sister in law Jackie Sorg of Brooklyn Park, and many nieces and nephews.
Loren Timothy Sutton
Loren Timothy Sutton, 59 year old resident of Swanville, MN, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at his residence. A Gathering of family and friends took place on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN. Burial was at Bearhead Cemetery in Pillsbury, MN. Caring for Loren and his family is LeMieur Funeral Home.
Loren Timothy Sutton was born on April 15, 1966 in Blackhawk, IA to the late Leo and Elaine (Smith) Sutton. The family moved to Swanville, MN in 1967. Loren was a graduate of Swanville High School. He worked road construction and various manufacturing jobs in the surrounding area. He was last employed at Wabash in Little Falls. Loren enjoyed fast cars and would work on his own vehicles and machinery. He enjoyed the outdoors, camping and being on the water. Loren was ready to lend a helping hand to others whenever needed. He was known for his jokes and his wisecracking. Loren gave everyone their nickname. He knew every song on the radio and would sing them.
Loren is survived by his brothers, Danny (Pam) Sutton and Bobby (Lori) Sutton; sisters, Cindy (Ira) Lyon and Jolene Sutton; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews; along with many good friends and co-workers.
Loren was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Elaine Sutton; his son, Gavin Sutton and niece, Jackie Lyon.
Joyce A. Doege
Joyce A. Doege, age 82 of Sauk Centre, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 16 at River of Life Church in Sauk Centre with Rev. Kyle Peterson officiating. Interment will be in Bear Head Cemetery near Pillsbury.
Visitation will be from 4 to7 p.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Sauk Centre and from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church.
Joyce Ann Forcier was born March 25, 1943 in Vancouver, Washington to Joseph and Alice (Cromwell) Forcier. She was united in marriage to Virgil Doege on March 1, 1961 in Sisseton, South Dakota. Joyce primarily was a homemaker but also worked at Lance Lens, Long Prairie Nursing Home, and at Casey’s in Long Prairie. Joyce enjoyed knitting and crocheting, puzzles, and playing cards.
Survivors include her children, George Doege of Long Prairie, Virgil (Julie) Doege of Mesa, Arizona, and Anita Baumgard of Sauk Centre; five grandchildren, Chris, Darin, Tasha, Christopher, and Dakota; brother, Donald Forcier; and sister, Marie (Ralph) Schutz.
Gerald “Jerry” J. Huls
The Funeral Mass was held
Monday, May 5th, 2025 at St. Columbkille Church in St. Wendel, Minnesota, for Jerry Huls, age 69, who passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his home on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025. Rev. Gregory Mastey officiated and burial was in the Parish Cemetery.
Jerry was born on November 17, 1955, at St. Gabriel’s Hospital in Little Falls, Minnesota. He was the fifth of six children born into a faithfilled Catholic family. He spent most of his youth on the family farm near the quiet town of Opole, Minnesota -- a Century farm that would remain close to his heart throughout his life.
Jerry attended Holdingford High School, where he distinguished himself as a standout athlete. He was a two-way starter on the state football team and became an individual state wrestling champion at 145 lbs—an achievement that remained unmatched for 41 years. His talent earned him a place on the Junior Olympic team, representing the United States in competitions across Europe.
Jerry continued his academic and athletic journey at Ridgewater College in Willmar, and later at St. Cloud State University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. He was also recognized as an All-American wrestler at 150 lbs and earned a spot on the Dean’s List.
He met the love of his life, Susan Artley, during his first teaching job in Brooten, Minnesota. Together they returned to his roots, settling on the family farm near Opole, where they raised their four children.
After a fulfilling career in education, Jerry retired to the farm he cherished, devoting his time to stewardship of the land and, most of all, to his growing family. He found deep joy in being a grandfather and often joked that he wanted a “baker’s dozen” of grandkids.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan Huls; his sisters Mary Huls, Rita Kostreba (Jerome), and Anita Van-Essen (Curt); his children: Alexander Huls (married to Bethany), Sean Huls (engaged to Leah Schiller), Laura Huls, and Carson Huls; and his three grandsons Lachlan, Harrison, and Julian Huls.
He was a proud and loving grandfather, deeply devoted to his family. Jerry’s life was defined by his love of family, his passion for athletics and teaching, and his quiet strength. He will be remembered with great love and missed dearly.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father Hubert Alexander Huls, his mother Margaret Sophie Huls, his older brother John Huls, and his younger brother Herbert Huls.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Doege on July 19, 2001; parents; and sonin-law, Mark Varner.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.
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, My husband and I live in India. I’m from the States, and he was born here. When it comes to our finances, I manage our American investments, and he manages our Indian investments. Every month, we sit down with spreadsheets and go over our finances. I trust him completely, but I’d like to better understand our investments here and how they work. Should I just defer to his judgment, or should I learn to understand things a little better?
-Anna
Dear Anna,
I always tell folks to make sure they completely understand their investments and how they work. So, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with learning more about the side of your investments he manages.
I learned a long time ago that when you’re married and it comes to making decisions, you should use all of your brain. That means both of you. Two heads are better than one, right? Back when I made all my mistakes with money and we went broke, I didn’t listen to anyone about anything. I thought I knew it all. We had investments and owned pieces of property my wife never knew about or laid eyes on.
When it came to our finances, she always trusted me and told me to do what I thought was best. Well, it turns out, I was an idiot. If I’d had an ounce of sense or humility back then, I’d have gone to her with my all my bright ideas. Knowing her thoughts or hearing her say, “I don’t know about that, honey. I’ve got a bad feeling about it” might’ve saved us a lot of pain and heartache — if I’d listened. But now, I understand like never before the meaning of Proverbs 31:10-12. “Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain” (NKJV). I’m sure your husband is lot smarter about things than I was. And he’s obviously open to talking with you about all this and showing you things. That’s a really good sign. But if I were him, and something were to happen, I’d want you to understand everything. I’d want you to know exactly what you have going on and how it all works.
Great question, Anna!
Ask The Motor Medics®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a 2004 Chevy Monte Carlo, and I am hoping to get better fuel mileage out of it. I have had the car for two years and my dash gauge reads an average of 20 almost all the time. When I bought the car the lot told me that they usually get about 30 mpg or so, but I have never had it that high. Once on vacation during a 2k mile trip I did average about 26 that was it. What can I do to make this car get the mileage that it should? So far all I have done is to put new spark plugs into it.
-Bill in Sioux City, Iowa
-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.”
Albany Senior Dining
Volunteers Needed! Call 320-845-4070
Mon., May 12: Hamburger stroganoff, noodles, vegetable blend, pears, bread.
Thurs., May 15: Chicken ala king, biscuit, carrots, cookie.
Fri., May 16: Macaroni & cheese beef brisket, broccoli, spiced apples, bread. Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.
TOM’S AUTO BODY
AUTO REPAIR
Dear Bill,
Well, there is a lot more to this than what appears. First, having owned several of these and having many customers with these vehicles we know them fairly well. Most of them, with the 3.8 non-supercharged engine, average around 23 mpg and sometimes on longer trips they can get around 26. Our own very well maintained 3.8 never got better than 26 on a trip. Many factors play into mileage such as basic tune up items like spark plugs, air filters and even tire pressure. Having the fuel system cleaned regularly is also something that plays a role in mileage. It seems like your vehicle is running in line with what we have experienced but if you feel like it is low consult with your mechanic.
-Take care, The Motor Medics
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan that I need to pull a trailer to Arizona with. It is a long trip, and I want it to be reliable. The
van currently has 190k miles on it, but it runs great. There is no trailer hitch on it now, so I need a hitch and a light connector. I plan on renting a UHAUL 6x12 trailer to haul my daughter’s stuff down to college just one way. Is there anything I can do to make sure that I make it? Can I install a hitch myself? What do I need to do to connect the lights?
-Ken in Westland, Michigan Dear Ken,
We admire your determination, but you have set yourself up to not make it across the country by pulling a trailer. First, you have a van that has been proven reliable for so many people for many years even at higher mileage like yours, but that is when it is driven as intended with no trailer behind it. These vans when they were younger and stronger sometimes had trailers behind them, but their tow ratings are lower than what you would need. A 6x12 UHAUL is a very heavy trailer even unloaded. If you try to rent it, they will tell you that it does not match your vehicle. You need something larger. We would also recommend a larger vehicle. It is always best to be safe.
-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.
Local Municipality Minutes
Email Minutes to htnews@icloud.com
Burnhamville Township • March 25, 2025
The regular meeting of the Town Board of Burnhamville was held March 25, 2025 at the Burtrum Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Clerk Shirley Hulinsky. Members present include Supervisors Mike Berscheit, Joe Muellner and Bruce Johnson; and Clerk Shirley Hulinsky. Treasurer Pam Throener was absent. Also present were Erv Herdering, Linda and Jim Gohman.
Newly re-elected officers took oath of office before this meeting.
As this is the first meeting after the township officer election, Sup. Johnson motioned to select Mike Berscheit as chair of Burnhamville Township Board. Sup. Berscheit seconded the motion. Sup. Berscheit motioned to have Bruce Johnson as Vice-Chair. Sup. Johnson seconded the motion. Motions passed.
The minutes from the regular meeting of February 25, 2025 were approved on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and second by Sup. Johnson. Motion passed.
For correspondence the township received notice of Planning and Zoning meeting, ad for tree services, officer contact forms, and several calls on dust control.
Linda Gohman was present to ask for signature on gambling permit for St. Joseph’s Church of Grey Eagle for their church auction fund raiser on June 13, 2025 at the Hub Supper Club. Supervisors approved and Mike Berscheit signed the form.
A motion was moved by Sup. Berscheit to pay all bills numbered 6792 through 6811 totaling $9,848.91. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Motion passed.
Jasen & Dorothy Braun were requesting a variance to put a screened porch on the lake side of the family cabin on Mons Lake. The board contacted Mr. Braun by phone to discuss details. The board was satisfied with request and Sup. Berscheit signed request showing approval. The clerk will forward signed request to county.
Sup. Berscheit gave an update on Township officer training from Minnesota Association of Townships and will follow up with fire departments on some topics.
Annual road inspection will be Tuesday, April 22 at 2 pm.
The supervisors discussed the road con-
tracts presented. Sup. Johnson moved a motion to approve the gravel, grading and dust control contracts presented by Herdering, Inc. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Upon vote motion passed.
As part of the reorganizational meeting Sup. Johnson moved a motion to keep wages the same as last year at $80 per month for supervisors and treasurer, $225 for clerk, $15 per hour for extra work and election judges, $25 per hour for heavy or power work. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to set mileage at the IRS rate and Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Sup. Johnson moved a motion to set Beaver Bounty at $50 and gopher bounty at $3 per tail. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to keep First State Bank of Swanville and Magnifi Financial of Grey Eagle as the official depositories. Motion seconded by Sup. Muellner. Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to keep Long Prairie Leader as official publishing with Hometown News as additional publishing site. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Sup. Muellner moved a motion to keep Burtrum Bell Bulletin Board as official posting site. Sup. Berscheit seconded the motion. Sup. Berscheit moved a motion to keep last Tuesday of the month at 7 pm at the Burtrum Community Center the official meeting date and location. Sup. Muellner seconded the motion. Motions passed.
With township clean-up day set for May 17 at 9-11 am in Burtrum the board discussed prices. Appliances will be $5, Tires: car and truck tires $5, tractor tires $15 and fees double if rims are left on, Bulky furniture will be $5, Electronics: TV and monitors $10 small electronics will be free.
Township offices election and annual meeting was March 11 with Pam Throener and Bruce Johnson re-elected to their offices with 21 votes each. The annual meeting had a small turn out with no new issues.
The Treasurer’s report shows balance of $124,784.50. Report approved on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and second by Sup. Muellner. Motion passed.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m. on a motion by Sup. Berscheit and a second by Sup. Muellner. Next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at 7 pm in the Burtrum Community Center.
Shirley Hulinsky, Burnhamville Township Clerk
Property Taxes Due May 15
Stearns County residents are reminded that the deadline to pay first half property taxes is right around the corner. The first half of 2025 tax payments for real estate and agriculture properties are due Thursday, May 15. This will be the last day to pay the first half without penalty.
For convenience, residents have several payment options:
• Online at StearnsCountyMN.gov/670. Online payments can be completed with E-Check (free) or credit card (2.5% service fee).
*NEW* Online, you can “Pay Now” or “Schedule Future Payments”.
• In person at either Stearns County Treasurer’s Office location, the Waite Park Service Center at 3301 County Road 138 on the 2nd floor (current year payments can also be dropped off at the License Center drive-thru with a payment stub) or the downtown St. Cloud Administration Center, 705 Courthouse Square, Room 136. Both offices accept in-person payments Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30
Grey Eagle Library Sponsored Talks
The Grey Eagle Public Library will host three history talks by local writer Robert Kutter. The first of the trilogy will be about Burnhamville Township and the City of Burtrum on May 14 at 5:30 p.m.
Kutter, who wrote the book A History of Grey Eagle, Minnesota, for the Grey Eagle Library Association, has offered other presentations about Grey Eagle history in general and specifically about the Grey Eagle Village Hall.
The second talk will be about the lakes in the Grey Eagle area on August 12, and the third talk on September 12 will be about the numerous ethnic groups who settled in the area.
The talks include some historic and current photos of people and places.
If you have questions about the area history or have some personal history to share, attend these three events sponsored by the Grey Eagle Library Association.
Mental Health Awareness Month 2025
p.m.
• By mail. Payments must be postmarked by the Post Office no later than May 15, 2025 to avoid penalties! Include the first half payment stub and/or the Parcel ID Number, along with a check payable to Stearns County Auditor - Treasurer and mail to:
Randy R. Schreifels
Stearns County Auditor-Treasurer
P.O. Box 728
St. Cloud, MN 56302-0728
Set up ACH payment plans for next year. These payments are automatically deducted either quarterly or over a 10-month period from a checking or savings account at no cost. It’s easy to sign up for and easy to cancel. Fill out the form on the Stearns County website at StearnsCountyMN.gov/670 then select Payment Plans.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in Minnesota, a time to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma surrounding mental health. Throughout the state, organizations and communities are coming together to support individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. NAMI Minnesota is leading the charge with its #ShareWhyYouCare campaign, encouraging residents to participate in daily wellness activities throughout May. From outdoor walks to connecting with loved ones, these simple acts aim to foster self-care and community support. Participants are invited to share their experiences using the hashtags #NAMIMinnesota and #ShareWhyYouCare on social media the organization is also offering a variety of educational workshops and support groups. These include suicide prevention training, trauma-informed care sessions, and resources tailored for parents and caregivers.
Notably, the Hope for Recovery workshops provide valuable information on managing mental health conditions and building supportive relationships. For those in rural
areas, NAMI Minnesota offers virtual support groups and resources to ensure that individuals across the state have access to the help they need. As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, Minnesotans are encouraged to engage in these initiatives, share their stories, and support one another in building a more resilient and mentally healthy community. NAMI Website: https://namimn.org/namimn-events/ mental-health-month-challenge
A Symphony Funny
The symphony musicians had little confidence in the person brought in to be their new conductor.
Their fears were realized at the very first rehearsal. The cymbalist, realizing that the conductor did not know what he was doing, angrily clashed his instruments together during a delicate, soft passage. The music stopped. The conductor, highly agitated, looked angrily around the orchestra, demanding, “Who did that? Who did that?”
The Walleye: Sixty years ago in 1965, State Representative Keith Hinman from Grey Eagle sponsored the bill to make the Walleye the Minnesota State Fish. Pictured is Artist Roger Preuss, Governor Karl Rolvaag, and State Representative Keith Hinman. Submitted by John Hinman.
