Hometown News October 27, 2022

An office supervisor called an assistant in to give her the bad news that she was being fired. He started the conversation with: “Miss Jones, I really don’t know how we’re going to get along without you, but starting Monday, we’re going to try.”

Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy. The best advice is to say the right thing or say nothing. Choose your words carefully. As Abraham Lincoln put it, “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”

Another U.S. President, Harry Truman, said, “Tact is the ability to step on a man's toes without messing up the shine on his shoes.”

Tact is especially important in delivering bad news. Handled correctly tact can build credibility and strengthen your reputation, while preserving existing relationships. A tactful approach demonstrates professionalism and good manners, which can lead to career opportunities. Tact is critical for business and life success in handling interactions. Without tact we lose friends and other relationships, respect, work and money.

Tact, as defined by Merriam Webster's dictionary is, “A keen sense of what to do or say in order to maintain good relations with others or avoid offense.”

How many times have you said something without thinking it through and then regretted it? I would venture to say we’ve all been guilty. Tact comprises many things including compassion, courtesy discretion, diplomacy, respect and thoughtfulness.

Often we are so focused on achieving results that we forget how we come across to other people. Seek out a group of people you trust who can give you valuable feedback on your communication skills. Be open to their suggestions and work on improving.

It’s important to note that tact is more than

Photos

how

to

language such as

facial expressions frowns, sighs or a rolling of eyes.

wins friends; the lack of it often loses them. Tactful people make friends because they have a way of drawing people out and inducing them

express the best within them.

tact does not include is dishonesty.

it involves sugar-coating the words so they are easier to hear. Even then, you must be careful not to overdo the syrup or the message may get lost.

Once two rival hatters visited President Abraham Lincoln, each of whom presented him with a hat he had made. After the presentation, both hatters stood back expectantly awaiting Lincoln’s comments.

Lincoln looked over the two hats very carefully and then remarked solemnly, “Gentlemen, they mutually excel each other.” Now that is tactful!

One of the worst things you can do is to let your emotions get the best of you. Calm yourself down in stressful situations by taking a break, going for a walk or whatever technique will help you maintain your composure. Learn to control your emotions. As the saying goes, you can’t “unring the bell.” Stop and think before you speak.

Our society has become increasingly accustomed to spouting the first sentiment that comes to mind just look at the comments sections online to see how people respond to situations. I would hope that those folks would be less inclined to be so uncivil if they were

Wild

Mackay

interacting face-to-face.

Tact is probably the hardest when disagreements pop up, creating tension. Be open minded and listen to the other side, and perhaps that will encourage them to listen to your point of view too. It’s ok to respectfully disagree but keep it civil.

Benjamin Franklin said, “If you must speak your mind, then mind how you speak.”

Tact is the ability to think of things far enough in advance not to say them. And for the times when you’re not as diplomatic as you should be, you need to be quick on your feet.

A loud Army sergeant is drilling some recruits when he gets a message that the grandmother of one of them has died, so he shouts, “Jones, your grandmother died!” And Jones promptly faints.

The sergeant’s superior officer takes him to the side afterwards and tells him he should be a bit more tactful about such things.

A week later the sergeant gets word that Smith’s grandfather has passed away. The sergeant enters the barracks and calls everyone to attention announcing, “All those with living grandfathers step forward. Not so fast, Smith.”

Mackay’s Moral: People with tact have less to retract.

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, OCTOBER 29

Prairie Orchestra

7 p.m. at the Burtrum City Hall.

Classical

at 7:30 p.m. at LP-GE Second

School, Long Prairie.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2

• Folk & Old-Time Music & Potluck from 1-3 p.m. at the Village View Apart ments, Grey Eagle. See ad on page 5.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER

Savior’s

9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Albany.

Obituaries

Card

Savior’s Lu

page 7.

Mary Mack & Tim Harmston Stand

7 p.m.

NOV.

Blattner Ener

ad on page 5.

7:30 p.m.

BURTRUM CITY COUNCIL

the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

FEET FIRST CLINIC

the 1st Tuesday of the month from

a.m.-12 p.m. at Holdingford City Hall.

FOOD DISTRIBUTION

• Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution first

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

the 3rd Thursday of the month at

p.m. with cards/Bingo/coffee/dessert.

GREY EAGLE CITY COUNCIL

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 at 7 p.m. on the 2nd Monday of the month 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

2 p.m.

TOWNSHIP

the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

GREY EAGLE TOWNSHIP

the first Monday of the month at 8 p.m.

MELROSE TOWNSHIP

the first Thursday of the month

p.m. at the town hall.

VFW #7050 POST/AUX.

the first Tuesday of the month

First Tuesday after the first 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 first Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

“The Good Old Days” -By Tom Kuehne

Bullheads

They are never entered in a beauty contest. They are slimy, slippery and have no scales, which make them different from most other creatures that we pull out of lakes, streams or potholes. They could be called ugly. This is where the name bullhead came from. A round nose, a flat head, whiskers made of skin and three defensive barbs that can cause serious damage if they get into your skin. There are some of us that won't touch them because they are yucky and dangerous, while others will touch them to get them off the hook while fishing sunfish. They are not considered a desired species today.

Bullheads were much more common in the Minnesota waters in years past, but since that time, there has been a commercially driven effort to harvest bullheads. Their ability to survive while other species of fish die during winters, when snow depth prevents aquatic plants from producing oxygen, has allowed them to survive in shallow water or rivers. This made them easier to catch for the young shore fisherman that had no boat.

There are three species of bullheads in Minnesota, with the majority of them living in waters toward the southern part of the state. These include the yellow, yellow bellied and the black bullheads. The most desired species are the yellow and the yellow bellied, which grow to about double the size of the black bullhead. All of the species create a challenging fight when being brought in on a hook and line. They are very flexible and can turn and twist in ways that create extra tension on a fishing line. They are fun to catch, but not

everyone enjoys taking them off the hook.

If one wishes to clean the bullheads, it is a rather easy process. The required tools are a board that has a sharp nail coming out of the upper surface, a sharp knife and a pliers. The fish is fastened to the nail belly down, next cut around the back of the head and make a cut down the back to the end of the back fin. Pull off the skin with a pliers, lift up the fish and remove the skin on it's lower side. Pull the back fin and the barb from the body and cut off the tail. Separate the body from the head and if done carefully, the insides will come out with the head. You are now holding a nice piece of fish, with only a backbone and ribs, making it easy to eat and offer to your children. With a little practice, a bullhead can be cleaned in less than a minute.

Bullhead flesh tastes good fried as any other fish, but my Father-in-law left the skin on, salted and smoked them, which was really tasty. The yellow and yellow bellied bullheads taste best, but the black bullheads have a slightly fishy taste.

I remember times in my early years, when we would go bullhead fishing at least once per summer. These trips usually involved my Grandpa, my Uncle, my Dad and me. We would rent a boat for 50¢ and row out to the right spot as the sun was going down.

Bullheads bit better if it was dark. Along with the bullheads biting, the mosquito's were looking for some tasty humans to attack. The fishing lasted until about half a gunny sack full had been harvested. They were then taken to Grandpa's farm and the cleaning was done under the yard light. This light had called every mosquito within a quarter of a mile and they were ready to eat and we were on the menu. There were no sprays available to protect from mosquito's and if there was such a product, it probably cost money, so it would not have been purchased. The good part of the trip was when Grandma fried a bunch of bullheads as a midnight treat.

For feedback or story ideas, email Tom at tom@swanvilleinsurance.com.

a male who had accidentally cut his leg with a chainsaw near the address of 30378 Mapleview Road in Farming Township. The male identified as, Larry Gorecki, 71, of Richmond, was reported to have briefly lost consciousness and was unable to stop the bleeding. His wife, Patricia Gorecki, 72, was with him and advised she would trans port him out of the woods to a roadway with their tractor. First Responders met with the Gorecki’s on Mapleview Road and provided medical atten tion until Larry was transported via helicopter to the St. Cloud Hospital Emergency Room for his injuries.

The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, Alba ny Fire and Rescue, Albany Police Department, Mayo Ambulance, and Life Link Helicopter were dispatched to the scene.

If

Health or Life Insurance or for Senior Health Solutions Contact: Tom Kuehne 320-360-0343

Stearns Co. Sheriff’s Office

Two-Vehicle Crash • October 18, 2022: At approximately 7:30 p.m., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a two-vehicle crash with injuries at the intersection of County Road 41 and County Road 40 in Farming Township. Stearns County Depu ties, along with the Albany Police Department, Albany Fire Department and Melrose Ambulance responded to the crash.

Deputies found that the crash involved 2021 Chevrolet Silverado operated by Justin Roger Gertken, 42, of Richmond, and a 2014 Ford F150 operated by Brayden Patrick Burg, 23, of Avon. Gertken was traveling southbound on County Road 41 while Burg was traveling eastbound on County 40. Burg failed to stop at the stop sign located at the intersection which caused Gertken’s vehicle to strike Burg’s vehicle. Both vehicles were damaged and came to a rest in the southeast ditch. Gertken was transported to Melrose Hospi tal for further evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries. Burg was cited for the stop sign viola tion.

Medical • October 19, 2022: At approxi mately 5:43 P.M., the Stearns County Emergency Communications Center received the report of

&

Saturday, Oct. 29: HALLOWEEN

Morrison Co. Sheriff’s Office

Burglary • October 24, 2022: At approx imately 10:04 am, their office received a report of a business burglary at the Stone Hill Bar & Grill, located approximately four miles west of Randall, MN in Parker Township. According to the Sheriff’s Office, sometime overnight on 1023-2022, the suspect(s) made entry into the busi ness through a door on the back side of the bar. The business safe with cash was taken along with cash from the pull tab machine and a small tool box containing miscellaneous tools.

In the past week, we have seen an increase in thefts around the Upsala and Royalton areas. We want to remind residents to lock up your vehicles and property and keep valuables out of plain sight. We are asking residents to report any suspicious activity. Surveillance equipment can be very useful, and we encourage residents to ex plore that option to protect their property.

If you have information regarding the bur glary you are asked to call the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office at 320-632-9233.

Brian’s Painting

Interiors, Exteriors, Staining, Varnishing

Brian Middendorf

320-293-9939 40 Years Experience

Lunch Specials: 11 AM-1 PM

Oct. 28: Cheeseburger w/Chili or Fries Mon., Oct. 31: Chicken Noodle Soup w/Chicken Burger Tues., Nov. 1: Baked Chicken Dinner Wed., Nov. 2: Sausage & Kraut Dinner Thurs., Nov. 3: Meatloaf Dinner Fri., Nov. 4: Cheeseburger w/Chili or Fries

Thursday Wraps: (5-9 pm) Choice of: Grilled Chicken $9.00; Crispy Chicken $8.50; Buffalo Chicken $8.50; Taco $8.50; Philly Steak $8.50 Friday: (5-9 pm) STEAK NIGHT

• 6 oz. Steak $12 • Add 3 Shrimp $15

• 6 oz. Butter/Garlic Steak $12 • Add 3 Shrimp $15

• 6 Shrimp $9.00

Served with Coleslaw, Toast, French Fries or Baked Potato Saturday: (4-8 pm) 1/4 lb. Hamburger $2.50 Toppings 50¢ each; Bacon 50¢ Slice

LaVerne J. Steffen

LaVerne J. Steffen, 79 year old resident of Little Falls, MN, passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at St. Gabriel's Hospital in Little Falls, MN. A Funeral Service was held Monday, October 24, 2022, at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, with Pastor Dave Sperstad officiating. Burial took place in Bearhead Cemetery following the service. Caring for LaVerne and her family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel of Little Falls.

LaVerne J. Rambo was born on July 2, 1943, in International Falls, MN, to the late Herman and Cora (Patton) Rambo. She attended and graduated from Indus High School. LaVerne was united in marriage to Al Girard, and the couple had 3 children. They later divorced. LaVerne was then united in marriage to LeRoy Steffen on October 4, 1975, in Lincoln, MN, and they had 3 children together. LeRoy later passed away. She then spent many years with Jody Mueller. LaVerne spent most of her years residing in the Swanville area. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Laverne is survived by her children, Mike Rambo, Missy (Jay) Bartkowicz, Samantha (Jeremy) Johnson, and Amanda (Brandon) Muyres; sister, Darlene Nagle; and stepchildren, Danny, Cindy, and Cherri; 12 grandchildren, Christopher (Deanna) Hedin, Stacy Emery, Mitchell (Stephanie) Hedin, Thomas (Jasmine) VanHove, Mercedes Johnson, Alexis Johnson, Emerson Johnson, Layla Muyres, Brady Muyres, Lincoln Muyres, Cody Johnson, Shyanne (Erik) Mares and 9 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Cora Rambo; husband, LeRoy Steffen; daughters, Sonya Girard and Selena Jacobson; son, Gene Steffen; and grandson, Matthew Hedin.

Thomas J. Borgerding

Thomas J.

“Tom” Borgerding, age 88 of Melrose, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at his home in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, October 24 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Interment was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Melrose with military honors provided by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.

Thomas Joseph Borgerding was born February 14, 1934 in Freeport, Minnesota to Ben and Theresa (Hoeschen) Borgerding. Tom served in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged. He was united in marriage to Virginia “Ginny” Dufner on July 19, 1958 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. Tom worked with Oak Grove Dairy for 40 years as a home delivery driver and in retirement worked part-time at Ernie’s Jubilee and Coborn’s.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport, American Legion Post 101, and the Melrose Fire Department. Tom enjoyed the lake life on Kings Lake, especially when it came to entertaining family and friends, fishing, and taking the pontoon for a ride.

Survivors include his children, Steve Borgerding of Melrose, Dan (Mary) Borgerding of Sauk Centre, Sandy (Ken) Yurczyk of Freeport, and Jeff (Revondalei) Borgerding of Plano, Texas; seven grandchildren, Shaun, Andrew, Kelsey, Jacob, Benjamin, Kallista, and Nicole; four great-grandchildren, Griffin, Eva, Amelia, and Gavin with two on the way; brothers and sisters, Bernice “Bae” Stroeing of St. Paul, Art (Nellie) Borgerding of Cold Spring, Jean (Frank) Osendorf of St. Joseph, and John (Darlene) Borgerding of Leesburg, Florida.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia “Ginny” Borgerding on September 7, 2018; parents; brothers and sisters, Leo Borgerding, Alcuin “Al” Borgerding, Dolores “Lori” Ettel, Annella Ehlert, and infant brother, James Borgerding.

John A. Behsman

John A. Behsman, age 77 of Grey Eagle, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by his family on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at the CentraCare Hospital in Melrose, Minnesota.

A gathering of friends and family will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 29 at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Grey Eagle. A prayer service will begin at 5:30 p.m. A private inurnment will be held at Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery in Swanville.

John Allen Behsman was born July 17, 1945 in Waseca, Minnesota to Paul and Eileen (Yess) Behsman. He was baptized at St. John’s American Lutheran Church in Waseca and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Meridan, Minnesota. He attended country school and graduated from Waseca High School in 1963. After school, John enlisted and served honorably in the United States Navy. He met the love of his life, Joan Annette (Davidson) Behsman and they were married on June 22, 1968. From this reunion the couple had three children. John held a variety of jobs throughout his life starting as a grocery clerk, and also as a mechanic, truck driver, and farmer.

John enjoyed fishing, gardening, getting together with family and friends, and eating good food.

Survivors include his children, Lori Dittrich of Courtland, Kurt (Cindy) Behsman of Randall, and Lisa (Jason) Wehking of Eagle Bend; grandchildren, Tyler and Nikki Dittrich, Brandon and Gregory Behsman, and Erin and Jared Wehking; sister, Mary Ann Mundt of Owatonna.

John is preceded in death by his wife, Joan Behsman on October 8, 2022, parents, Paul and Eileen Behsman, brother and sister-in-law, Jim (Jane) Behsman, brother and sister-in-law, Donald (Louise) Behsman; and brother-in-law, Norman Mundt.

Memorials are preferred to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Grey Eagle.

James N. “Jim” Prasch

James N. “Jim” Prasch, age 86 of Grey Eagle, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at the CentraCare Hospital in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, October 24 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle with Rev. Ron Dockendorf officiating. Inurnment was in the parish cemetery.

James Nicholas Prasch was born April 3, 1936 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota to Raymond and Mary (Schwartz) Prasch. He graduated from Sauk Centre High School and continued his education at Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis. He served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960 and was honorably discharged. Jim was united in marriage to Elizabeth Otto on September 11, 1965.

Jim was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle.

He enjoyed celebrating Christmas every year, summers at the lake, and going on vacations. He was an avid fisherman and donated to Minnesota’s casinos often.

Survivors include his wife Elizabeth “Betty” Prasch of Grey Eagle, children Michael (Karen) Prasch of Grey Eagle, Jean Prasch of St. Cloud, and Natalie Prasch (Victor) of Elbow Lake, grandchildren Rebecca (Lucas) Weihe and Jacob Prasch, and brother Raymond (Mary) Prasch of Otsego.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Mary McLean, Theresa Prasch, and Catherine O’Donnell, and brother-in-law Mick McLean.

Memorials are preferred to the Poor Clare Monastery of Sauk Rapids or CentraCare Hospital in Sauk Centre.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Grey Eagle.

Delbert Wieling

Delbert

Wieling of Melrose, Minnesota passed away on October 15, 2022 at the age of 80. He was born on October 12, 1942, in Melrose, Minnesota where he grew up in New Munich, MN on the family farm. He graduated from Melrose High School in 1961. He then graduated with a Mechanical Draftsman Degree in 1963. In June 1965, he married Marian Thomes. They were married for 57 years. He worked as a DHIA supervisor for 25 years. He also delivered newspapers for 50 years, retiring in April 2022.

Del was actively involved in the Eagles Club for over 30 years. He delivered for Meals on Wheels for 25 years and Fare Share for over 35 years. He was an avid bowler.

Del is survived by his wife Marian; children Deb (Glen) Schave, Tom (special friend Shannon), Randy (Deb), Dave (Nancy), Lisa and Jammie (Gail) and 14 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; sister Joyce (Ted) Westendorf; and sister-in-laws, Bernie Wieling and Ruth Wieling.

Del was preceded in death by his parents, Hugo and Rose Wieling; daughter Jolene Wieling; his three brothers, Roger, Norman and Donald as well as a great granddaughter, Melanie Walsvik.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at St Mary’s Church, 755 Kraft Drive SE, Melrose, MN 56352 on October 29, 2022 at 11:00 am. Visitation with the family will begin at 9:00 am at the church. Interment to follow at St Mary’s Cemetery. Lunch to follow service.

Please consider making a donation in his honor to Meals on Wheels.

The family would like to thank the St. Cloud Hospital ER department and the ICU team for the care and compassion they showed our loved one in his final days.

Roman H. Sundermann

Roman H. Sundermann, age 97 of Melrose, passed away on October 18, 2022, at Sauk Centre, Minnesota surrounded by family. A private family service will be held at a later date with burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Melrose.

Roman Henry Sundermann was born September 22, 1925, in Melrose, Minnesota to Anthony and Anna (Volbert) Sundermann. Roman served in World War II in Pforzheim, Germany. He was a Private First Class Med Tank Crewman and subsequently a Radio Operator-Communication Chief and received a WWII Victory Medal. He was united in marriage to Aurelia Bertram on January 31, 1948. The couple farmed on the family farm northwest of Melrose and received the Stearns County “Century Farm” distinction in 2014.

Roman enjoyed auctions, football, reading, farming, deer hunting, a good card game, and visiting with people. He loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his daughters, Jonie Sundermann of Sauk Centre and Jane Keppers of Holdingford; seven grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren with one due in December; brothers, Bernie and Vic (Dorine) Sundermann; many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Roman was preceded in death by his wife, Aurelia Sundermann on October 28, 2016; son Jim Sundermann on December 2, 1996; and sonin-law, Scott Keppers on June 12, 2019. He was also preceded by brothers Hubert and Harry, and sister, Delores Bromen.

Arrangements are with the Roy-Hetland Funeral Home in Osakis, Minnesota.

Edmund

Edmund “Ed”

Roman Harren, 90, of Freeport, MN, died on October 22, 2022 at his home in Freeport, MN surrounded by his family. A beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, son, uncle, cousin, friend and colleague, Ed was born on March 27, 1932 in St. Francis, MN (rural Freeport, Stearns County) to John G. and Elizabeth (Gerads) Harren, the fourth of eight children.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with Rev. Daniel Walz officiating and Rev. Robert Harren concelebrating. Interment was at the parish cemetery with Military Honors by the Holdingford V.F.W.

Ed grew up in rural Freeport. As a young man, Ed worked in the harvest fields of North Dakota and as a farm hand. He was drafted in 1953 into the U.S. Army, during the Korean War. He was stationed in Panama and received an honorable discharge in 1955. He was married to Irene A. Herickhoff on 7-5-1955 at the Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Elrosa, MN. Ed worked at the creamery in Donnelly, MN and worked to receive his grading, testing and boiler license. As a result, he became the assistant manager and butter maker. In 1964 Ed purchased the family farm from his parents and became third generation owner. Over the years he was involved in the National Farmers Organization. For 23 years he served as a divisional board member for AMPI and 13 years as a regional director. He also served for six years on the Minnesota Association of Co-ops through AMPI and attended national dairy meetings in Washington DC.

Ed served as a parish trustee at St. Francis Parish for five years before retiring from farm life. In 1991 Ed and Irene moved to Freeport, for the next 15 years he was a full-time school bus driver for the Williams Bus Service and then three years as a substitute driver. He was a member of the St. Joseph Society at the Sacred Heart Parish and was a lifetime member of the VFW and the Knights of Columbus.

Survivors include his children, Juleen (Ray) Scegura of Holdingford, John (Lois) of Freeport, Barry (Colleen) of Freeport, Gregg (Nancy) of Eagle Bend, David (Kathy) of Eagle Bend, Michael (Shelly) of Holdingford, and James (Cheryl) of Freeport, 23 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren; siblings, Regina Hoeschen, Rita Schiller, Conrad Harren, Eugene (Connie) Harren, Marlene Herickhoff, Rita Walz, Dr. Bob (Pam) Herickhoff, Charles Herickhoff, James (Ruth) Herickhoff, Norma (Joe) Moening, Marie (Ken) Bezdicek, Mark (Donna) Herickhoff, Bernie (Linda) Herickhoff and Henry (Vicky) Herickhoff; and many nieces and nephews.

Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Irene, on October 21, 2021; son, Bruce; granddaughter, Mary; parents, John and Elizabeth Harren; inlaw’s, Ben and Anna Herickhoff; siblings, Maggie (Harren Kraemer) Faber, Arnie Hoeschen, Harlan Schiller, Jeanette (Harren) & Sylvester Stueve, Larry & Betty Harren, Carol Harren, Harold Herickhoff, Lawrence Herickhoff, Harold Walz, and Alfons & Lizzy Plate.

Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Catholic School or Poor Clare’s Monastery.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Freeport.

Vernon J. Bentfield

Vernon J.

Bentfield, age 84 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at his home in Orange Township, Douglas County, Minnesota.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 29 at St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union with Rev. Joe Vandeberg officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Vernon John Benfield was born March 10, 1938 in Orange Township, Douglas County, Minnesota to John and Leona (Ebensteiner) Bentfield. Vernon was a brick layer from the time he graduated from Morris in 1958 until 1970. He was united in marriage to Ellen Gaffaney on April 26, 1969 in Glenwood, Minnesota. Vernon took over the family farm in the spring of 1970. His farm is where he worked, raised his family, and enjoyed his life until his retirement from milking cows in 2006. Vernon then enjoyed raising birds and other animals as well as farming the land with his son, and helping his daughter, Karen, on her farm. He took great pride in passing his knowledge of farming to his grandsons, Big John Boogaard, Little John Bentfield, and Joey Bentfield.

He was a member of St. Alexius Catholic Church in West Union, Queen of Peace General Assembly, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, St. Joseph’s Society, served on the St. Agnes School board for three years, and was a member of the Bricklayers Union Local 13 his entire life. In his younger years, Vernon enjoyed square dancing with Ellen. His greatest hobby in the last few years was watching YouTube farming videos with his pride and joy, John and Joey. He was the best babysitter John and Joey could ever have, he truly enjoyed watching them.

Survivors include his children, Connie Bentfield Enge of Phoenix, Arizona, Cindy (Ken Stenzel) Bentfield of Water Valley, Texas, Judy (Bob) Mattson of Glenwood, Karen Bentfield of Osakis, Ronald (Lori) Bentfield of Sauk Centre, and Nancy (Andrew) Pint of Belle Plaine; 11 grandchildren, Emily, Rachel, Johanna, John, Brandon, Brentley, John, Joseph, Nolan, Katie, and Karie; seven great-grandchildren with one on the way; brother, Marvin Bentfield of Denver, Colorado; and sisters, Beatrice Monn of St. Cloud, Merina (Victor) Odegard of Sauk Centre, Rita (John) Hacker of Royalton, and Linda (Clarence) Dirkes of Sauk Centre;

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife, Ellen Bentfield on July 29, 2017; parents; an infant daughter; brother, Raymond Bentfield; and sisters-in-law, Jeanne Bentfield and Lois Bentfield.

Memorials are preferred.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey

Dear Dave,

After hearing you talk about financial infidelity,

have to admit that I hide money from my husband.

have been setting aside money for emergencies without his knowledge. He is not terrible with money, but he always seems to find something to spend it on. Before I started doing this, we never managed to save much money at all. But now I feel like I have been doing something wrong. What should I do?

Dear Lana,

-Lana

I believe in saving up for emergencies. I mean, I’m the guy who tells people to have three to six months of expenses saved in an emergency fund, right? But deception is never a positive thing in a relationship—especially a marriage. You need to talk to your husband about this.

I know it won’t be easy for you, so you have to make sure you tell him in the right way. Playing the blame game won’t help. Basically, you’ve been deceiving him about this. Sure, it sounds like he has been immature when it comes to your household finances, but you made the decision to hide things. You chose to do this instead of talking to him about your

concerns.

Let’s start here. Tell your husband you need to talk to him about something important, and sit down together with no distractions. Explain what’s been going on, and that you’re sorry for not being honest about things, but you also need to speak up and tell him why you were doing this secretly. If you were afraid to disagree with him, tell him that. Tell him why, too, and let him know you just want the two of you to have a successful financial future, and that you’re committed to never hiding things again.

Managing money in a marriage isn’t a “his” or “hers” thing. It’s a “we” thing. You can fix this, but it’s going to take some honesty, understanding and making an effort to work together toward the same goals—like saving or living on a written, monthly budget.

You each have a vote, but it also means you have to stand up and vote no, Lana, if he wants to blow money on silly stuff when you guys don’t have your finances in order.

-Dave

* Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Ask The Motor Medics®

From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.

Dear Motor Medics,

I have been a listener to your radio program for about ten years now and really enjoy

the program. Although I am not a car lover or mechanically inclined in any form or fashion, I love the entertainment of the show and have learned a thing or two about cars that has helped me out in the past. I know you are gentle with your listeners when one calls in with something that would seem stupid to most shops and that is why I decided to write you before I check with my shop in hopes that I can fix my problem on my own. I usually don’t do any car repairs myself, not even oil changes or light bulbs but last week I decided to check the fluids under the hood on my 99 Pontiac Bonneville and noticed my antifreeze was low, so I added some to the little bottle on the fender. The problem is that the little bottle was for washer fluid instead of engine coolant. I have not used the washers since the fill and don’t want to go to my shop and tell them what I did.

-Robert in Sterling, Illinois Dear Robert,

This happens more than you would think. On this car you can pull off the hose on the tank bottom attached to the pump and you can catch the fluid in a container. Then rinse with water and refill with washer fluid. That’s it.

-Take care, the Motor Medics

brake job or is this some new problem that needs to be addressed and what.

-Samantha in Muncie, Indiana Dear Samantha,

I don’t think that the brake work you had done six months ago is related to the problem you are having today. The brake pads and rotors are part of the mechanical brake system while the abs/ trac light is part of the electronics of the antilock brake system. On many GM cars and trucks these lights will come on in this way and it is usually a sensor that has failed or more commonly a broken wire on one of the front speed sensors. If it is a broken wire some shops may choose to repair it instead of replacing the entire sensor which will save you money. The wires move a lot when driving so they are subject to break with age. Have your shop take a look and advise you of what is needed.

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.

Albany Senior Dining

Mon., Oct. 31: Spaghetti w/meatballs, green beans, breadstick.

Tues., Nov. 1: BBQ rib patty, squash, Normandy vegetables, grapes.

Wed., Nov. 2: Breaded chicken patty on bun, broccoli, macaroni salad, sliced apples.

Thurs., Nov. 3: Shrimp, baked potato, peas, fruit cocktail.

Fri., Nov. 4: Goulash, corn, peaches, din ner roll.

Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Upsala - All Ages

BREAKFAST: Mon.-Fri. 7-10 a.m.: Walk in & dine. Take out available, call ahead.

Mon., Oct. 31: BBQ chicken breast, baked potato, vegetable, dessert.

Tues., Nov. 1: Chicken patty sandwich, corn, potato wedges, dessert.

Wed., Nov. 2: Philly cheese steak sand wich, tater tots, vegetable, dessert.

Thurs., Nov. 3: Ravioli w/meat sauce, vegetables, garlic bread, dessert.

Fri., Nov. 4: Spaghetti hotdish, vegetable, garlic bread, dessert.

Pick up or eat in by 11:30 a.m. For meals, call a day before: 320-573-4435.

Prevention Month

By Kimberly Cook: General Crime & Child Abuse Services Coordinator, Hands of Hope Resource Center

be prevented. Parents, school staff, and other

adults have a role to play in preventing bullying. Some children may be afraid that they’ll be “in trouble” for what happened. Oth ers may feel embarrassment or shame. Adults may notice changes in their child’s behavior and may find it difficult to talk to the child.

Find the opportunity to talk to your child in the car, before or after homework, over dinner or breakfast, or when doing something together. Ask open ended questions about their day or activities. How was your day? What’s the funniest thing that happened today? What was the worst thing that happened today? Share your experience about be ing bullied when you were their age. Start with, “Hey, did I tell you about….?” Explain how dis tressing, awkward, scary, or upset you were.

It may be hard for your child to have this conversation with you. If a child says to you “I’m afraid you’re going to be mad at me, or “Mom, I’m kind of scared to tell you this, but…” stop what you are doing and actively listen to your child. Find out what they want or need from you as the parent or caregiver. Keep the lines of communication open.

If your child was bullied or cyberbullied stay calm. The goal is to hear about their experience, provide support, and to help prevent it from hap pening again. When determining if you need to talk with the school/teacher about what happened, ask your child if they feel comfortable with you reaching out to the school/teacher to talk to them about the situation. The last thing a parent wants to do is make things worse for their child. Ask your child what will make them feel safe and come up with a safety plan if it happens again. Remind your child that it is not their fault, as no one deserves to be bullied no matter what was said or done.

Statistics show that bullying prevention pro grams, like the ones Hands of Hope Resource Cen ter provide, decrease bullying by up to 25%.

Through our Violence Prevention Program (VPP) we provide educational presentations in the communities of Todd and Morrison Counties. These presentations are not only provided in the schools, but also civic groups, church groups, busi nesses, and other organizations, and are developed

on a variety of topics based on the organization’s need. We cover topics such as domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and general crime in cluding fraud, identity theft, and elder abuse.

For school aged children, there are a variety of presentations including but not limited to: bul lying, cyberbullying, sexual harassment, sexting, internet safety, healthy relationships, teen dating violence, and domestic violence in the home.

If you would like more information on our Vi olence Prevention Program, or on any of the topics listed above, contact the Hands of Hope Resource Center. Our business hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, or give us a call at (320) 7322319 or our 24/7 hotline at 800-682-4547.

Mail-Ballot Precincts

By Joseph A. Wiechman, Head Judge, Millwood Township

As the general election approaches, it is prudent for all voters in mail-ballot precincts to plan how they will cast their ballots. If you are already registered, and live in a mail-ballot pre cinct, you should have received your ballot in the mail. According to the Stearns County Elections office, the initial mailing for all registered voters was September 29. If you have not received your ballot, or have misplaced your ballot, it is too late to receive a replacement ballot in the mail. Residents of mail-ballot precincts may choose to register and vote in-person, at the Melrose City Hall from November 1-7. Tuesday-Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Mon day: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. You can also drop off your completed, and sealed, mail-in-ballots from No vember 1-7 at Melrose City Hall.

If a resident of a mail-ballot precinct still needs to vote on November 8, the only remaining option is to cast a ballot in-person at the Stearns County Service Center: 3301 County Road 138 Waite Park, MN 56378 from 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

reason

Call 320-267-5632. RBftn

WANTED TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples: also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664. SC-odB

FOR RENT OR LEASE: Deer hunting ground, 10 acres, almost an island on the Mis sissippi River, shot gun zone, accommodations available. Call 320-200-8727 or 320-2668111.

FOR SALE: Scope mount for model 12 shot gun, $20. Call 612-283-2718.

FOR SALE: 6 drawer dresser with mirror, $50. Kitchen wooden oval table, $25. Electric wheel chair, make offer. 320-352-1064

FOR SALE: Set of 4 B.F. Goodrich LT245/75R17 M&S, 10-ply tires with good tread remaining, sold as set, $125. Melrose 320-249-7694.

FOR SALE: 12ga Rem Premier STS 7 ½, 8, 9 shot, case of each. Call 320-260-4551.

FOR SALE: MAAX sliding glass shower doors, & tracks. 52 1/2 inch wide; doors- 68 inches high, like new, $225 cash. 329-4921404

FOR SALE: Werner aluminum 40 foot exten sion ladder. Call 320-429-0607.

FOR SALE: 4x4 Oak timbers 10 & 12 ft. lengths, good for elevated deer stands. Call 320-248-2146. 11/3

FOR SALE: Antique corrugated galvanized steel roofing. Call 320-429-0607.

FOR SALE: Yearling British White bull. Call 320-250-0052.

FOR SALE: Large selection of "The Original Snow Village." Call 320-256-7223.

FOR SALE: Shower spray nozzel, & spray wand with grab bar/wand holder like new, 50 cash. Text 320-492-1404.

FOR SALE: 2015 black Ford Fiesta SE 34,174 miles, very clean, $16,500 cash. Text 320-492-1404.

FOR SALE: 4 beautiful club chairs & copper patina round coffee table, like new, $375 cash. Call 320-492-1404.

FOR SALE: 6 wooden bar stools, 2 with swivel backs, like new, $175 cash. Call 320492-1404.

FOR SALE: Horseradish & horseradish pick les $11.50 a quart. Call 320-632-3336.

Barbara J. “Buns” Essler

J. “Buns” Essler, age 70 of Sauk Centre, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at her home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

Barb’s request, the family will have a private service.

Barbara Jean Louden was born May 7, 1952 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Richard and Lorraine (Ahles) Louden. She was united in marriage to Richard “Rich” Essler on May 5, 1973 in New London, Minnesota. Barb worked as a paraprofessional and secretary for the Sauk Centre Public Schools for many years. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, spending winters in Arizona and summers at the cabin, cooking and reading. More than anything, Barb loved being a grandma to her six grandchildren. She was known for her contagious smile and laughter, and always there for anyone who needed a helping hand.

Survivors include her husband of 49 years, Rich Essler of Sauk Centre; children, Shannon Essler-Petty (Richard Petty) of Clearwater and Derek (Jessica) Essler of Sauk Centre; grandchildren, Adyson, Nolan, and Quinn Petty, Ruby, Tori, and Tyler Essler; brothers and sisters, Pat Jager of Spicer, Tim (Nancy) Louden of New London, Steve (Sue) Louden of Austin, Texas, and Judy Loudon of Sartell; brothers and sisters-inlaw, Debbie Louden, Trudi Louden, Shirley (Gene) Bertram, Laurie King, Mary Horn, Dave Essler, and Dan (Margaret) Essler.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Brittany Essler; brothers, Michael Louden, Thomas Loudon, Charles Louden, and Christopher Louden; brothers-in-law, Tim King and Phil Jager; father and mother-in-law, Henry and Lorraine Essler; and nephew, Forrest Louden.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Sauk Centre.

Daniel D. Robideaux

Daniel D. Robideaux, age 44 of Melrose, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Monday, October 24, 2022 at his home in Melrose, Minnesota.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Daniel Dean Robideaux was born July 29, 1978 in Paynesville, Minnesota to Charles and Gisela (Gomer) Robideaux. Daniel attended high school in Grey Eagle and in North Carolina. He worked for Melrose Metalworks, Extreme Autobody, Jennie-O, and worked as a truck driver. Daniel enjoyed working in the garage on vehicles and lawnmowers, building his creations, and riding motorcycle. He loved spending time with his family and friends, especially playing games with his kids and teaching them how to fix things.

Survivors include his partner, Ashley Leukam of Melrose; children, Aiden Robideaux and Trinity Robideaux; stepchildren, Jeremy Schwieters, Brooke Schwieters, Ella Schwieters, and Cameron Leukam; mother, Gisela Schwanke; brothers, Dennis and Larry; and sisters, Michelle and Juliet.

Daniel was preceded in death by his father, Charles Robideaux; grandparents; and nephew, Matthew Robideaux.

Arrangements were made with PattonSchad Funeral & Cremation Services of Melrose.

Bob Tomsche, Founder