Continue reading »]]> Eugene “Gene” Isaacson passed away at his home surrounded by family on Aug 6, 2026. Gene was born on Dec 14, 1938 to Frank and Hulda Isaacson, in Franklin MN. He was the 16th of 17 children.
They moved to Cokato when Gene was 12. He was very used to living on a farm and seldom going to town. When moving to Cokato, they lived a short distance from town and Gene did get lost in the “city”.
He would reminisce how he and a couple of brothers would drive the tractor to Brooks Lake to swim, quite a treat as was the movie theater in town. 10 cents given to him for a movie.
On August 23 1978 he married Jonay Anderson. Together they had 8 children which made for a very active, interesting, adventurous, parent learning household.
Gene was a carpenter and started his own business shortly after they married to be able to stay in the area. Gene and Jonay liked to fish and camp and did so as often as they could, generally in northern MN. When retirement came, they became snowbirds. First to FL for a few years and then to TX for several more. While in TX they became campground hosts. A job well liked with being able to bring new people at the park to local events, places of interest and of course into Mexico. They settled back in Cokato year round a few years ago.
Gene is survived by his wife Jonay, sons Tracy, Jason (Dawnetta), and Chad (Debbie). Daughters Gwen (Joe)Isaacson, Taylor Piehl, Kendra (Steve)Seth, and Bethany(Troy) Bremer. Grandchildren Steven, Sean (Bobbie), Trevor, Justin (Mariah), Joshua, Miranda (Tim) Airhart, Ian, Ivan, Kristina (Keith)Johnson, Tiffany (Charlie) Hannus, Hugh & Lilyan Landman, Bo & Hank Bremer, Shelby (Lyle) Seth, Allie (Alex) Voineag. 10 Great Grand Children, Kasie, McKenzie, Brinley, Urijah, Willa, Jameson, Bennett, Oliver, Skyler, and Owen. 1 GreatGreat Grand Child, Mavis. Sister Dorothy Hammond and brother Kenny (Darlene), sister-in-law Beverly, Daughter-in-law Karen (Loren) Broberg.
Gene was preceded in death by parents Frank and Hulda, son Derek, daughter-in-law Kathy, 6 sisters and 8 brothers, Willard, Viola, Evelyn, Gordon, Mildred, Vermont, Donald, Marian, Floyd, Joyce, Maynard, Duane, Delores, DeLloyd.
A Celebration of life will be held at 1:00 PM with visitation 1 hour prior on Aug 14 at the Fireside Fellowship (formerly the Assembly of God) Church, 190 Johnson Ave SW, Cokato MN. Please feel free to come in casual, comfortable everyday attire….That is what Gene always preferred.

Continue reading »]]> Jed James Kinnunen, son of Donovan and Alyssa Kinnunen of Cokato, MN was born Wednesday February 25, 2026 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis; and peacefully passed away Friday, July 31, 2026 with his parents at his side.
He was dearly loved by his siblings, parents and grandparents during his short 5 months here on this earth. He faced many health trials that his earthly body was unable to overcome.
Jed is predeceased by his older sister Ellie and his grandfather, Vance Ylioja. Jed is survived by his parents Donovan and Alyssa Kinnunen of Cokato, MN; his siblings, Emma, Kayden, Callie and Jenna; his grandparents, Tommi and Lisa Kinnunen of Cokato, MN, and Janine Ylioja of Outlook, Saskatchewan; his aunt, Brigette Ylioja of Outlook, Saskatchewan; his uncles, Jaret Ylioja of Outlook, Saskatchewan and Connor Kinnunen of Cokato, MN. A graveside service will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4 at the Cokato Finnish Cemetery.

Continue reading »]]> Harvey Louis Krohn Sr, age 87, passed away peacefully with family by his side on the morning of August 4th, 2026. The world got “so much cuter” on December 3rd, 1938, when Christmas came early to Ernest and Erma Krohn, with the birth of Harvey. Harvey was born in Middleville Township, and moved to the farm a few years later. He attended the country school, and then later transferred to St. James.
When asked when the last time was that he fell, he would say “62 years ago when I fell in love with my wife Carol”. Harvey met his lifelong wife, Carol, through mutual friends, sealing the deal after their first date at Sherman’s Station. The two of them were blessed with four amazing children, all of which gave him grey hair at an early age. (The grey only made him even cuter).
Harvey was the strongest man anyone who met him knew, building his strength from farming and raising cattle, setting monuments, working at the cheese plant, and throwing 100lbs feed bags like they were nothing. While working at American Feed and Livestock, Harvey continued to build his work ethic, climbing himself up to a management position for numerous years. Harvey’s children especially got to experience his strength when they got into trouble, as well as finding out that he was a lot faster than they thought.
Harvey also had a bit of a wild side. With a 1957 DeSoto, he was caught speeding down County Road 6 and got speeding tickets after only having the car for three days. He was going so fast that the judge even came out to see what was under the hood. He decided to step it down a notch, and got into stock car racing, ranking third. Harvey would take the boys’ Harley’s for a ride, but would return them empty so they would run out of gas on the way home.
Harvey enjoyed spending his free time in numerous different ways. He was a wiz at rebuilding old Ford tractors from scratch until they were new again. He loved helping haul machinery and going to auctions with Decker, and spending his days at tractor pulls, even until the early hours of the morning. He also enjoyed volunteering with the Howard Lake Lions Club, making the best biscuits and gravy at their breakfasts, and selling tickets at the meat raffles. During the summer, you could find Harvey in his garden, which he took huge pride in, and selling his produce at the farmer’s market becoming known as the “Sweet Onion Man”. During the rest of the year, you would find him woodworking, fishing, and hunting, even getting his last deer just last year at 86 years old.
Harvey had the best sense of humor, always telling jokes, making smart alec comments, and making sure everyone knew he just couldn’t wait until tomorrow, because he “just keeps getting cuter every day”.
Harvey is survived by his wife Carol, their children Harvey Jr (Mary) Krohn, Teresa (Dan) Oestreich, Darrin (Sandy) Krohn, Trina Krohn, 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, their cat, Nova, and many other family and friends.
Harvey was preceded in death by his parents Ernest and Erma Krohn, in-laws Harold and Loretta Rasmussen, his first wife Evelyn, and their baby girl.
A memorial mass will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 12:30 PM, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waverly, Minnesota.

Continue reading »]]> In Loving Memory of Jason Halvor Boyd. It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of Jason Halvor Boyd, who peacefully gained his angel wings on July 27, 2026, surrounded by love with his beloved wife Brenda, and family by his side. Jason was born on July 16th, 1970, in Golden Valley, Minnesota to Russell and Mavis Boyd. He lived a life marked by kindness, quiet strength, and an unwavering love for those closest to him. He was the kind of man who made people feel welcome, offered a helping hand without hesitation, and found joy in the simple moments that became life greatest moments. Jason dedicated many years of life to working as a chef/manager in the restaurant world, till he found his dream job at Porta-Dock. He took great pride in everything he did, hard work, integrity and willingness to help others. He built lasting friendships with those who worked alongside him. On October 20, 2017, Jason married the love of his life, Brenda. Their marriage was built on so much love, friendship, laughter, faith and love that only grew stronger. Whether they were dancing together in the kitchen to “You are my sunshine” by Chris Stapleton, enjoying quiet evenings at home, or simply holding hands happiness was the two of them together. Their love endured life’s greatest challenges, Jason’s courageous battle with glioblastoma which he faced with remarkable strength and grace. Jason cherished his family deeply. Though he never thought he ever would become a Bonus Dad and Grandpa, those roles became one of the greatest blessings of his life. Playing toys with the grandkids on the floor or going out to places to spend time with them. He loved them so very much. Jason will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quiet strength, kind heart and unwavering love for his family and friends. His legacy is not the illness he fought so bravely, but the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the memories he leaves behind. Jason was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Mavis Boyd, Brothers Rusty and Greg Boyd, sister-in-law Laurie Boyd. He is lovingly survived by his wife Brenda Boyd, Daughter: Ashley (Matt), Son: Austin (Laura) grandchildren, Nevaeh, Lainey and Myles, Brothers: Bill (Danielle) Mark Sister: Bonnie (Phil) and many cherished family and friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him. A Celebration of life will be held August 22nd at the Dassel Historic Event Center. A visitation will start at 10:00am with the celebration starting at 11:00am. There will be a luncheon to follow.

Continue reading »]]> Deane Cloose, 91, of Howard Lake, MN, died Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Good Samaritan Home, Howard Lake, MN.
Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Friday, July 24, 2026, at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake, MN. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and interment will be at the St. James Lutheran Cemetery immediately following the service. Please join the family for a luncheon at St. James Lutheran Church following the interment.
Deane was born in Bemidji, MN, on March 9, 1935, to his parents, Rudolph & Alice Cloose of Pinewood, MN where he grew up on their dairy farm and attended a one-room schoolhouse taught by his mother, Alice. When he wasn’t helping with chores, he enjoyed playing baseball and riding the one bicycle he shared with his siblings.
He worked at the Pine River Good Samaritan Home when he met Shirley, his wife of 59 years, while she was visiting her grandpa. As Shirley said, “sparks began to fly,” and they were soon wed at the Good Samaritan Home’s chapel. They were beloved by the staff and residents who celebrated their marriage.
Shortly after getting married, the couple moved to Howard Lake, MN and started their family. They had two children, Greg and Deanna. The family were active members at St. James Lutheran Church, enjoyed camping trips and Twin’s games together. Deane worked at Cokato Good Samaritan Home doing janitorial work. He also held other jobs, Rockford Bakery where he was a baker, Young America as a packer and side jobs, painting, and selling Shaklee products.
He worked for many years making cabinets at Dura Supreme Cabinetry and retired to fish and watch the Minnesota Twins. Regardless of their record, Deane was an avid fan, and listening to the radio or watching the game on TV was a favorite pastime throughout his life. One of his greatest joys in retirement came with the birth of his granddaughter’s.
In April of 2025, Deane and Shirley moved into the Good Samaritan Home of Howard Lake, MN. While Deane’s time there was short he really enjoyed living there, loved the staff and made some new friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Joanne (Cloose) Jernigan, and brothers Dale and Richard (Dick). He is survived by his wife, Shirley (Petrie) Cloose; his brothers, Dennis (Bonnie) Cloose and Donald (Elvera) Cloose; his children, Gregory Cloose (Laura) and Deanna Cloose; and two granddaughters, Emma and Lillie.

Continue reading »]]> Patricia Deanne Johnson, age 89, passed away at Cokato Manor on July 15 th , 2026.
Patricia was born in Boyd, MN to LeRoy and Vivian Winge on April 25, 1937, at home. LeRoy worked at his father’s grain elevator. Vivian worked at her father’s restaurant.
Patty was baptized at home. They were members of Trinity Lutheran in Boyd, MN.
The family moved to Lamberton MN, where LeRoy sold seed corn. Patty went to kindergarten there. The next move was to Farmington, MN. Patty attended 1st grade and started 2nd grade there when in 1944, LeRoy joined the Merchant Marines. Vivian and Patty moved to Stockholm, MN to live with Grampa Ben at the Stockholm Store. Patty finished 2 nd grade at Stockholm School and continued her education there through 6th grade.
She was confirmed at Stockholm Lutheran Church in 1941 and graduated from Cokato High School in 1955.
After graduating, Pat moved to Minneapolis and held many jobs working at Produce State Bank, American Casualty Insurance Company and International Harvester Company.
She met her husband, Robert Johnson, in 1956. They were married on July 19th , 1958, at Stockholm Lutheran Church. They started their married life in NE Minneapolis then, bought their first home in Bloomington, MN in 1960 where they lived for 10 years. During this time, they had 5 children, Kelly, Kevin, Kent, Kristen and Kraig.
In 1970, they moved to Cokato and built their own home. When all the children were in school, Pat went to work outside of the home. She worked at FabriCraft and FabriTech in Cokato and retired from Nortronics in Dassel after 25 years.
Pat loved crafting, sewing, collecting antiques, flower gardening and arranging, teaching and making wonderful ceramic things, singing in the church choir, traveling and spending time with
family and friends.
She was a Campfire Girls leader in Bloomington and a Brownie and 4H leader in Cokato. She belonged to several women’s organizations such as the Legion Auxiliary and Hobby Club and also served on many church groups including church council, WELCA President and Crow River WELCA Treasurer. She also led a women’s bible study for many years and was a member of the Altar Guild.
She spent summer vacations at the cabin at Lake Kabetogama way up north. She enjoyed winter vacations as long as it was someplace warm, preferably by water. Time spent in Florida and the Padre Islands in Texas were her favorites.
Her grandchildren were very special to her. She enjoyed providing daycare when they were babies and loved every minute of it. She was also blessed with five great grandchildren.
Pat is survived by her loving husband, Robert, children Kelly Johnson, Kevin Johnson, Kent Johnson, Kristen (Rick) Smutka and Kraig Johnson. Grandchildren Eric Johnson, Kaitlyn (Tucker) Forstie, Alicia (Jason) Just and great grandchildren Jett, Nash and Briggs Forstie and Logan and Carter Just. She is also survived by her sister Carol Fuller and Mike (Sue) Winge and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Pat was preceded in death by LeRoy and Vivian Winge (parents), Sophie and Charlie Martin (in-laws), Jerry Johnson and Royce Fuller (brothers-in-law) and Mark Gabrielson (husband of niece Laura).
Funeral services for Patricia will be held on Monday, July 20 th at 11:00 AM at Stockholm Lutheran Church in Cokato, MN. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Minnesota Stroke Association and/or the American Diabetes Association.

Continue reading »]]> June Eleanor Harju, age 92, passed away peacefully at Cokato Manor on July
10, 2026.
June was born on September 20, 1933, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, to Arvo and Aune Lehtinen.
She grew up in Fitchburg and graduated from high school there.
June met her soulmate, Neal Harju, while he was stationed in
Massachusetts with the U.S. Army. They were united in marriage on
March 20, 1954, by Reverend Reino Kallio in Fitchburg. They then
lived in Germany for a short time while Neal continued his military
service.
After returning to the United States, Neal and June made their home
in Cokato, where they raised their three children. June worked at
Green Giant during the corn pack seasons, in the kitchen at Cokato
Elementary School, and later as a TMA at both Dassel Lakeside and
Cokato Manor nursing homes.

June was a lifelong member of the First Apostolic Lutheran Church. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she cherished time spent with her family and her dear Christian friends.

She is survived by her daughters, Joanne (Gary) Chamberlain of Cokato, Linda Samuelson of Cokato, and Maria Harju of Howard Lake; grandchildren Tara (Timm) Hagen, Sheila Chamberlain, Erin (Kevin) Parenteau, Jessi (Mike) Hauan, Kelsey (Carsten) Proehl, Derrek (Amanda) Harju, and Jaden Samuelson; great-grandchildren Akadia, Austin, Alana, Noah, Jolynn, Brooke, Trenton, Micah, Eliana, Nathanael, Ryker, Rhett, Rexton, and great-great granddaughter, Parker; her sister, Diane Kangas of Grafton, Massachusetts; as well as cousins, nieces, nephews, and many other dear extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Neal; her parents, Arvo Lehtinen and Aune Kangas; her beloved grandmother, Lena Ritari; her grandson, Brandon Chamberlain; her great-granddaughter, Aubrey Parenteau; and many other dear extended family members and friends.

Funeral services for June will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11:00am with a visitation 1 hour prior to the service, at the First Apostolic Lutheran Church, Dassel, Minnesota.

Continue reading »]]>
July 14, 1933 – July 6, 2026
Donald “Don” Shoutz, age 92, passed away on July 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, education, service, and dedication to his family and community.
Don was born on July 14, 1933, in Forrest City, Minnesota. He attended District 44 Country School south of Watkins before graduating from Kimball High School in 1951. He continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1960 with double majors in History and Biology and a minor in Physical Education. He later completed graduate work toward a master’s degree in European History.
Don devoted more than three decades to education. He began his teaching career in Royalton, where he taught for three years before moving to Cokato in 1963. After spending one year teaching in Montevideo, he returned to Cokato, where he became a beloved social studies teacher at Dassel-Cokato High School. Throughout his career, Don also coached numerous sports and faithfully served as the public address announcer for football, basketball, wrestling, and swimming events until his retirement in 1993. His passion for teaching and school athletics left a lasting impression on generations of students and families.
Outside the classroom, Don found great joy in the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed practicing taxidermy for 25 years, a craft that reflected his appreciation for nature.
On December 30, 1961, Don married the love of his life, Lois Turnquist, at Randall Presbyterian Church in Randall, Minnesota. Their marriage was marked by enduring love, faith, and perseverance. After the heartbreaking loss of their infant son and daughter, who were born prematurely and are buried in St. Cloud, they lovingly adopted two children through Lutheran Social Service of Minneapolis—a son, Shawn, and a daughter, Kari.
Faith was the cornerstone of Don’s life. As his Christian walk deepened, he faithfully served his church as an elder, deacon, and Sunday school teacher. He also volunteered for 15 years as an instructor for the 55 Alive driver safety program, sharing his knowledge and care for others.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Ora Shoutz, wife Lois Turnquist, his infant son and daughter, and brothers Clayton, Doug and Vernon.
He is survived by his son, Shawn (Lesa) Shoutz, grandchildren Justin (Maggie) Shoutz; James (Cassie) Larson, Sara Jo (Jason) Newborg, Mason (Eternity) Gottwalt, Gavin (Amy) Gottwalt; daughter Kari (Joe Jarl), grandchildren; Courtney (Blake) Hansen, Gunnar Jarl, Leif Jarl, 16 great grand children, brothers; Lowell (Sandy), Kenneth (Carol) and Sister Linda Lou (Jim) Schmitt.
Don’s greatest legacy was not found in awards or accomplishments, but in the countless students, athletes, church members, family, and friends whose lives were shaped by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church in Cokato, Minnesota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial preferred to the American Diabetes Association. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato, MN 320-286-2534, www.swansonpeterson.com

Continue reading »]]> Margie E. Bluhm, formerly of Hutchinson, MN, passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026, age 89 at Cokato Manor Nursing Home.
Margie was born April 28, 1937 in Bertha, MN, the fourth child in a large and loving family of eleven children. Throughout her childhood and many moves around the state her role as caregiver was established. This served Margie well for the rest of her life and she became a trusted friend and confidant to many.
After moving to Hutchinson, MN in 1968 with a family of her own Margie further developed her artistic abilities with drawings and painted ceramics adorning the family home. And as a talented seamstress she fashioned clothing, quilts and embroidery pieces. Margie was also an avid and accomplished bowler acquiring many ribbons and trophies and participating in tournaments over the years. Family vacations to the Smokey Mts, the Gulf of Mexico, the Rocky Mts and many places in between created cherished memories.
While caring for her family was a priority, Margie also had various jobs outside of the home. She is perhaps best remembered in the Hutchinson community as a bartender at the American Legion.
On January 1, 1983, Margie married the love of her life, Roger Bluhm. They were inseparable for 42 years with Margie relishing her role as companion, confidant and loving partner. She was happiest when taking care of Roger and seeing to his needs.
Margie died peacefully within a year of Roger’s passing; both were residents at Cokato Manor Nursing Home. She is once again his companion.
She was preceded in death by her husband Roger; parents Carl and Clara Nelson; brothers Carroll, Darrel and Bernie Nelson; sisters Susie (Nelson) Klatt and Carla (Nelson) Mador.
Margie is survived by her daughter Peggy Koenig; step children Lynette (Bluhm) Fraher, Karla (Bluhm) Noble, Steven Bluhm (fiancée Linda Stahlke), and Robert Bluhm; brothers Ronald, Bruce and Rick Nelson; sisters Elaine (Nelson) Hageman and Judy Nelson; sisters in law Barb Nelson, Julie Nelson and Eunice (Bluhm) Howe; many nieces and nephews as well as step grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A service for Margie will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 11:00am at the Oakland Cemetery Niche Wall in Hutchinson, Minnesota.
If you wish to honor Margie’s memory, enjoy some time in a flower garden and be at peace.
Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato & Howard Lake, Minnesota 320-286-2534 www.swansonpeterson.com

Continue reading »]]> Glen Joseph Reil, Jr., of Howard Lake, Minnesota, passed away at his home on June 21, 2026, at the age of 82.
Born on October 30, 1943, in Hutchinson, Minnesota, to Glen and Lorraine Reil who raised him in Augusta (Chaska), Minnesota, Glen lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a willingness to help others. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.
Glen proudly served his country in the United States Navy and was stationed in San Diego during his years of service. After returning home, he met the love of his life, Dianne, while working at Powell’s Candy Factory.
Never one to stop learning, Glen returned to college later in life and became an Electronic Technician, spending many years working on life-saving medical equipment.
After many years in Delano, Glen and Dianne retired to their dream home in Howard Lake, where he enjoyed the simple pleasures of country living. He loved restoring and repairing cars, building computers, tackling home improvement projects, caring for his trees and garden, listening to music, watching comedy classics, sharing stories from his Navy days, and engaging in spirited political debates. Above all, Glen found his greatest joy in spending time with his family and lending a helping hand whenever it was needed.
Glen is survived by his daughter, Jill Reil; his son, Daniel (Joy) Reil; grandchildren, Daniel (Chelsea) Reil, Jr., Thomas Reil, and Samantha Reil; great-grandchildren; sisters, Faith (Frank) Blackowiak and Sue (Ralph) Engebrit; and brother, Robert Reil.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Dianne Reil; his son, Brian Reil; his grandson, Robert Reil; his parents, Glen and Lorraine Reil; and his brother, David Reil.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026 with the visitation at 10a.m. and the service with military honors at 11a.m. and lunch following at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 111 Winsted Ave W, Winsted, MN 55395. Internment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, 7601 34th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55450 on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 11a.m.
Glen will be remembered as a gentle giant—a man known for his quick wit, memorable one-liners, infectious laugh, attentive ear, and generous heart. He was the person family and friends could always count on to lend a hand, solve a problem, or share a story. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family will remain with all who were fortunate enough to know him.
The family finds comfort in knowing that Glen and Dianne are together once again, reunited after a lifetime of love. Though their absence leaves an immeasurable void, their legacy lives on in the family they cherished and the memories they created together.
Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato & Howard Lake, Minnesota 320-286-2534 www.swansonpeterson.com