Jul
18

Koivisto, Andrew Jerald 17

Andrew Jerald Koivisto was called to his heavenly home on Thursday, July 17, 2025 due to injuries sustained from a car accident on June 22, 2025.

Andrew was born on January 30th, 2008 in Buffalo, Minnesota to Gregory and Shanna Koivisto. He attended Dassel-Cokato Schools from kindergarten through 11th grade, where he made many lasting friendships and memories.

In recent years, Andrew enjoyed working for his dad at the cabinet shop. His high-energy personality had a unique way of keeping the group connected and motivated, uniting people of different backgrounds to work toward a common goal. He had a natural gift of bringing joy and momentum wherever he was.

When he wasn’t working, Andrew could be found hanging out with his friends, golfing with family and loved ones, swinging around nieces and nephews, or lending a hand with someone’s project. Most recently he was the project manager on his cousin Vince’s truck rebuild. He was always ready to jump in and help, and rarely sat still for long.

Andrew was known for his bubbly, unassuming nature and his remarkable ability to connect with anyone. His hummingbird-like energy could light up a room, even if only for a moment before he was off to the next thing. He leaves behind a reputation of kindness, joy, and sincerity. Andrew set an example for others in the way he always made things right with those he loved. Most importantly he carried a desire for the Gospel.

He is survived by his parents, Gregory and Shanna Koivisto; his siblings, Blayne (Abigail), Abigail (Hans Siltala), Nicholas (Jade), Hans (Akia), Jack, Ellen, Greta, Clayton, Landon, Sam, Leo and Jane Koivisto; his 11 nieces and nephews; grandparents, Nancy Mattila and Paul and Ruth Koivisto; his special friend Kayla Kotila; his large extended family; and many friends who loved and enjoyed him.

Andrew is preceded in death by his grandfather Gary Mattila and uncles Micheal Mattila and Grant Koivisto.

A visitation will be held from 4-8 PM with 7 PM prayer service on Sunday, July 20, 2025, continuing 1 hour prior to service on Monday, and a funeral service at 2 PM on Monday, July 21, 2025 all at the Cokato Laestadian Lutheran Church. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home of Cokato, MN 320-286-2534, www.swansonpeterson.com

Jul
15

Anderson, Harold Roger 93

Harold Roger Anderson, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, in Cokato, Minnesota. A lifelong Minnesotan, Harold was born on January 23, 1932, in Dassel, near the shores of Big Swan Lake. He attended school in rural Dassel and remained deeply connected to the land and community that shaped his life.

Harold proudly served his country in the United States Army as a medical aidman stationed in Germany. His dedication and honorable service earned him a Good Conduct Medal, reflecting his steadfast commitment to duty and care for others.

After returning home, Harold devoted himself to farming—a passion that defined much of his life. He found great joy in working the land and took pride in passing down this tradition to his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the generations who continue to share his love for agriculture.

In addition to farming, Harold had a lifelong love for sports. In the 1940s and 1950s, he played Town Ball for Darwin, showcasing his talent and enthusiasm for baseball. He also enjoyed golf and fishing, finding peace and camaraderie in these pastimes.

Harold was known by those around him as someone who was always laughing, eager to lend a hand, and gifted with a knack for storytelling. His warmth and humor left lasting impressions on all who knew him.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Jeff Anderson; Barb (Cary) Jensen; Gayle Anderson; Patty (Mike) Leighton; and Jason (Jennifer) Anderson. His memory is cherished by his grandchildren: Cole (Anna) Anderson; Lauren (Brady) Roers; Jon Leighton (Shelby Harrell); Jordan Anderson (Max Cowger); Danielle Jensen; and Riley Anderson. He also leaves behind one great-grandchild, Haven Anderson.

Harold is survived by his siblings Carold (Lois) Anderson and Margaret Engleson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Senja (Soderback) Anderson; and siblings Donald, James, Mildred, Elaine, Louise, Art, and Arnold.

A private family interment will take place at Lake Arvilla Cemetery. And as Harold always said, “See you in the movies!”

Jul
14

Tulkki, Aileen Karen 43

Aileen Karen Tulkki, 43, passed away peacefully on July 13th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at the Hutchinson Health Hospital. She was born on May 14th, 1982 in St. Cloud, MN to John and Barbara Lehto. Aileen was known for her unrelenting strength throughout her life and into her battle with cancer, along with her love of being surrounded by family and friends. She battled on for three years, beating cancer twice and telling the doctors to shove it, leaning more on her faith. This early July, she was able to celebrate the marriage of her son Will and daughter-in-law Larissa shortly before her passing, which was such a blessing to us all. Aileen graduated from Dassel-Cokato High School in 2000. She married the love of her life and high school sweetheart Scott Tulkki on June 9th, 2001. She spent a beautiful 24 years accomplishing her dream of raising a family. Raising seven children is no easy task but she was made for the role, filling her home with love and laughter. She was known for her caring spirit and love for nature’s beauty. One of the hardest things I have had to do in my life is put your life on paper Mom. We miss and love you so much. Aileen is survived by her loving family, her husband Scott; children Brooke, Will (Larissa), Leanna, Eric, Kade, Colton, and Emily; parents John and Barbara: siblings Aaron (Helen) Lehto, Pete (Karen) Lehto, Eric (Carolyn) Lehto, Andy (Janet) Lehto, Robert (Ali) Lehto, Dan Lehto, Mary (Alan) Stonelake, Ryan (Karen) Lehto, Alan (Kayleigh) Lehto, Jeff (Kara) Lehto, Troy (Paige) Lehto, Alex (Ashley) Lehto; parents in law Donald and Nancy Tulkki; brothers in law Ken Tulkki, Brian Tulkki, Steve Tulkki, William Tulkki, Greg (Brita) Tulkki, Tom Tulkki, and sister in law Sharon Tulkki; a large extended family, and countless friends who cherished her. Aileen is preceded in death by her grandparents, Andy and Lorraine Anderson, Uncle Fred Anderson, and brother-in-law Paul Tulkki. She is missed dearly by family and friends. We love you, Aileen. There will be a visitation on Sunday, July 20th, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 pm and the funeral will be held on Monday, July 21st, 2025 at 11:00 am, all at the First Apostolic Lutheran Church, with visitation starting at 10:00 am.

Jul
12

Hillmyer, Lynn Marie 68

Lynn Marie Hillmyer, age 68, of Cokato, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. After navigating a decades-long journey with multiple sclerosis, she leaves behind an enduring example of courage, strength, and resilience.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 25, at 5:00 pm at the Dassel History Center and Ergot Museum, with visitation one hour prior and meal following. Her beloved grandchildren are serving as honorary urn bearers.
Lynn was born on October 8, 1956, to parents DeWayne and Joycelyn (Rubel) Jensen, who lived in Elk River, Minnesota, with their son, Brad. She was baptized and confirmed in the Methodist Church and graduated from Elk River High School in 1974.
Lynn married the love of her life, Lloyd (Monty) Hillmyer Jr. on September 21, 1974. Together, the two made their home in South Haven, Minnesota, where they welcomed two sons, Jason and Joshua. The family attended Zion United Methodist Church and enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. She loved nothing more than watching and cheering on her boys at the hockey rink – a joy she continued with her grandchildren.
Lynn took pride in her community and her work, serving in many Administrative Assistant positions – especially cherishing her time at the family business, United Auto Body, which brought her the joy of seeing her loved ones each day. Of all her pursuits, re-selling antiques was closest to her heart. She loved curating and displaying timeless pieces, finding meaningful gifts, and treasured the dear friendships she gained along the way.
Her compassion and quick wit naturally turned conversations away from herself and toward others, always making a point to ask how everyone else was doing. Her thoughtfulness was a gift in itself – she made holidays memorable with special touches, such as festive napkins and bunny ears at Easter; ensured everyone’s favorite foods were on the table; brought people together with games; and serenaded loved ones with her signature version of the Happy Birthday song. Lynn loved her grandchildren fiercely and cherished her time with them. She found peace near the water and especially enjoyed time at the family cabin, just steps from her faithful parent’s home on Big Stone Lake.
Lynn was wonderfully stubborn and independent, as she was loving, and her sense of humor and contagious laugh lit up every room. She taught us what it means to fight and hold onto hope, to meet each obstacle head-on, and to believe we can do hard things, just as she always did.
What a beautiful difference one single life made. Blessed be her memory.
Lynn’s legacy lives on in her devoted husband of 50 years, Monty Hillmyer; loyal sons Jason (Karina) and Josh (Melissa); 10 grandchildren Keyra (Haldan Pedersen), Dylan (Jennifer), Dane, Karson, Chase, Max, Nora, Easton, Greta and Henrik; 3 great-grandchildren Greydon, Darius, and Ayla; and brother Brad Jensen.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Arthur and Emma Jensen, and Earl and Mildred Rubel; her parents DeWayne and Joyce Jensen; and her sister-in-law, Barty Jensen.

Jun
27

Taraldson, Shawn “Moose” 76

Shawn Taraldson, but most everyone knew him as Moose left this earth on June 24, 2025 at the Cokato Manor.
He was born on March 31st, 1949 to the parents of Cyril and Alice Taraldson. Shawn lived his life to the fullest enjoying the Twins, Vikings and NASCAR. His favorite place to relax and enjoy was his cabin up north to try his luck at fishing and hunting.
Shawn now joins his wife Diane, his parents, and a brother Kevin.
He is survived by his daughter Chantel, step-son Tom Hedlund(Sue), sisters Christine(Craig) Silva, Kathleen (Jim) Engstrom and Mary Ann (John) Larson and brother Jim. Also many nieces and nephews.
No formal services will be held. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato, MN 320-286-2534 www.swansonpeterson.com

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