Delores (Dee) Anna Glessing
June 23, 1927 – June 15, 2025
Delores “Dee” Anna Glessing (nee Krohn), age 97, of Howard Lake, MN passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born June 23, 1927 to Walter and Elsie Krohn (nee Reek) on a farm south of Howard Lake, MN.
She was baptized at St. James Lutheran Church on July 3, 1927. Her early years were shaped by her deep Lutheran faith, strong family roots and the German language. When Dee first attended Corey Country School, her teacher, Miss Ardis Hess declared, “If Delores can’t speak English, I will not accept her in my class.” Dee rose to the challenge, quickly adapting and learning, and she attended Corey through the third grade before continuing her education at St. James Lutheran School. Delores was confirmed on April 6, 1941 by Pastor Eugene N. Settz.
Dee worked at the Red Owl store in Howard Lake, the canning factory in Cokato, Nyla’s Bakery in Howard Lake and later became a beloved volunteer at the local care center. She brought joy to the residents by delivering treats every holiday – her visits brought smiles and excitement to all who knew her.
Her faith was central to her life. Dee served on the altar committee at her church and was deeply involved in numerous ministries. Through Naomi Guild, she contributed to making quilts for world relief efforts and local disasters. She was active in the American Legion Auxiliary, where she served as president, chaplain, and was especially known for crafting thoughtful favors for Veterans at the VA. For 25 years, Dee faithfully brought video recordings of the 8 AM church service to the Good Samaritan Nursing Home, so that residents could stay connected to worship – a tradition she cherished. Dee also spent many years catering with her cousin, Orvella Doering.
On August 25, 1951, Dee married Marvin “Mark” Glessing. Together, they built a home centered on faith, love and family and were blessed with three children: Cheryl, Kent and Joan.
Dee loved life deeply and gave that love freely to others. She was dedicated to her church, her community and above all, her family. She enjoyed laughter, good company and the presence of God in all things.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Elsie Krohn; her beloved husband, Marvin “Mark” Glessing, her granddaughter Megan Boss, her nephew Rick Simon, her niece Janet Krohn, her sister and brother-in-law, Ardella and Bob Simon; her brothers: Howard, Orville and Orlan Krohn; and sisters-in-law: Gladys Krohn and Lue Krohn.
Dee is survived by her children: Cheryl Moist of Waverly, Kent Glessing of Hutchinson, and Joan Boss of Waverly; grandchildren: Joshua Moist (friend – Bailey), Jacob (Amber) Boss, Tom Glessing (friend – Jesse), Amy Glessing, and Sean (Shelby) Glessing; great grandchildren: Logan Moist, Landon Lee, Britton Glessing, Marshall Boss, Jade Boss and Jasper Gjerdingen; brother and sister-in-law Ralph and Jean Krohn; sister-in-law Bernie Krohn; her cherished Godchildren: Sheri Doering, Lyle Lemke, Mark Krohn, Steven Krohn, Cindy Krohn, Scott Glessing, Dennis Reek, Rita Krohn and Rob Simon and many other relatives and friends.
Pall Bearers will be Tom Glessing, Joshua Moist, Jacob Boss, Logan Moist, Sean Glessing and Britton Glessing. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Marshall Boss, Lyle Lemke, Jade Boss, Lyle Lee and Jasper Gjerdingen.
A funeral service will be held at St. James Lutheran Church on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM, visitation will be held one hour prior. Interment will be at St. James Lutheran Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. James Lutheran Church or School and Moments Hospice of St Cloud.
Delores lived a life of faith, love and joyful service. She will be remembered for her kindness, her strength and her unwavering devotion to her family and her Lord.