Obituaries 09/25/25
Gary Chaffins, 78
Gary S. Chaffins, age 78, of rural Buffalo, passed away Sunday, September 21, at his residence. He was the long-time proprietor of Gary’s Auto Service in Rockford. A complete obituary will appear in next week’s paper.
The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Julie Fiesel, 65
Julie Fiesel, a beloved wife and mother, passed peacefully at home on September 15 from dementia, which she fought for ten years.
A memorial service will be held at the Buffalo Covenant Church on September 25, at 11 a.m.
She is survived by her husband, Doug Fiesel; her two sons, Chase Fiesel (Sara Tifft), of Minneapolis, and Paul (Mariah) Fiesel, of Saint Paul; and many friends and relatives.
Julie was born on September 6, 1960, and raised in New Hope where she graduated from Cooper High School. Later, she earned a B.A. in Communications from Bethel College where she met her husband, Doug. Julie spent about a decade working as a manager at IBM in Chicago.
Later, she used her love for politics and skill for connecting with people in her roles as a congressional aide to former Congressman Gil Gutknecht and as the Director of Government Affairs at the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.
She will be remembered for her love for Jesus, her family, and making friends with everyone she met.
Darrin Jackson, 59
Darrin Stacy Jackson, age 59, of Buffalo, and formerly of Alabama, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025.
He grew up in Double Springs, Alabama, where he completed high school. Darrin continued his education, two years of auto mechanic.
He worked for Ameri-Gas Propane for many years, which led him to his final career in the Pipeline Industry Union #798. He worked twenty years and traveled all over the USA.
Darrin’s passions were hunting, fishing, and being in the outdoors listening to nature.
He was also great at fixing anything. He came up with great ideas. He was helpful and always willing to help people, friends, and family… anyone. He had a big heart!
In February of 2011, he married Joan, and they traveled where the jobs took them. In between, they would spend time between Buffalo, Minnesota, and Double Springs, Alabama.
In the winter of 2019, Darrin was diagnosed with large cell Lymphoma cancer and began treatments. For the last six years, he fought this battle of non-ending appointments and chemo.
He leaves behind his daughter, Megan Jackson, of Double Springs, Alabama; many relatives, family, and friends; his wife: Joan Jackson of Buffalo, Minnesota; stepdaughters: Savanna Ledesma and Whitney Moran; step-grandchildren, Jaidan and Jocelyn; his hunting companion, Ryan Moran.
We love you! Darrin, we are sad that we will not see you or hear your voice. We will remember all your goodness and your true heart. We are glad you’re at peace, and the suffering is done.
Family services for Darrin Jackson were held on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 2:30 P.M., at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. A visitation was held from 1:00-3:00 P.M., Monday, September 22, at the funeral home.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Jory Louisiana, 75
September 7, 1950 – September 13, 2025
Jory Kim Louisiana, age 75, of Buffalo, Minnesota, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 13, 2025, in his home, surrounded by family. He was born on September 7, 1950, to Milo and Melba (Schleif) Louisiana and was baptized into the Christian faith at St. John’s Lutheran Church on October 15, 1950. Jory confirmed his faith at St. John’s on May 30, 1964, and remained a lifelong member, serving as an elder and singing in the men’s and mixed choirs. On April 8, 1970, Jory married his high school sweetheart, Susan Olson, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brainerd, Minnesota. Together, they shared 55 years of devotion, and until his final days he told her, “You’re the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen.” Jory served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Afterward, he worked in construction with his father beginning in 1973 and faithfully continued in that career until retiring in 2016. Even in retirement, he could always be found fixing or remodeling something for his children. The strength of Jory’s faith was the central guiding principle of his life. He openly shared his faith with others, often asking people if they were Christians and listening with genuine care to their stories. His love for the Lord shaped his marriage, his work, his family life, and the countless friendships he formed. An avid outdoorsman, Jory loved fishing, hunting, mushroom foraging, and searching for agates—never passing a shiny rock without picking it up and giving it a lick. He also fished professionally in tournaments for many years and took countless people fishing for the first time. He found joy in reading, writing, and woodcarving. Most of all, he loved sharing coffee and conversation with friends, and his family imagines he’ll have a warm cup waiting for each of us in heaven. Known for his warmth, Jory didn’t often shake hands—he hugged. He had a gift for turning strangers into friends, greeting all with a smile, a story, and genuine affection. His greatest joy was time with his five children, their spouses, and ten grandchildren—whether at sporting events, band concerts, fishing, hunting, picking rocks up north, or sharing his endless supply of goofy jokes and stories. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his eleventh grandchild in November. Jory’s life was defined by faith, family, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of devotion, kindness, and joy will live on forever.
Jory was preceded in death by his parents, Milo and Melba Louisiana; and brother, Craig Louisiana.
Jory is survived by his wife, Suzi Louisiana; children, Casey (Judie Goslin) Louisiana, of North Oaks, Maudie (Robert) De Young, of Buffalo, Edward (Keshia Swanlund) Louisiana, of Monroe, WA, Kari (Justin) Karstens, and Carlie (Matthew) Tauber, of Buffalo; grandchildren, Sidney and Alec Louisiana, Madeline and Elliana McKay, Gaia, Sufi, and Mazie De Young, Rowan, Logan, Maren, Odin, and Jackson Karstens; his sister, Lisa (Keith) Kamrath, of Hutchinson, sister, Tamara (Jeff) Oliver, of Buffalo; and sister-in-law, Lana Louisiana, of Elk River; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 4, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo, MN, with visitation from 9–11 a.m., service at 11 a.m., followed by a light lunch and fellowship. Private family interment will follow at Kreidler Cemetery, Montrose, Minnesota.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Tina-Marie Low, 63
Tina-Marie Low, age 63, of Buffalo, MN passed away at her residence on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
She was born on July 11, 1962 in Brentwood, New York the daughter of Harold and Valentina (Acampora) Low.
Born with a natural curiosity and love for learning, Tina-Marie pursued her passion for education by earning a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. Though she began her journey in academia, her career path led her to the skies—where she spent 23 remarkable years with Northwest/Delta Airlines starting in the Reservations Department in New York. In 2001 she moved to Minnesota and worked in the Training Department. She was promoted to Manager and worked in many areas within the company. Her leadership and compassion helped shape countless careers, and she was known for her ability to bring out the best in others. After retiring from Delta Airlines during Covid, she continued her commitment to service and excellence by joining Allina Clinic and Optum Health, where she worked for the last five years. Her colleagues admired her for her integrity, her tireless work ethic, and her unwavering kindness.
Tina-Marie was an avid reader who could often be found lost in the pages of a good novel. Her love of travel took her to places near and far, always with a sense of wonder and appreciation for different cultures. And she never missed a good game of bingo—where her competitive spirit and infectious laughter lit up the room.
Survived by her son Donald J.M. Low; sisters Dorothy Low, Georgiann (John) Kenny and Maryann (Barry) DeRose; nieces and nephews; many friends.
Preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral service for Tina-Marie Low will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM at The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo MN.
Visitation will take place from Noon until 2:00 PM at The Peterson Chapel, Buffalo.
Interment will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, Buffalo MN.
The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo assisted the family with funeral arrangements. On-line condolences can be made at www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Willis Miller, 87
Willis (Willie) Norman Miller, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away September 21, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on January 25, 1938, in Saint Charles, MN.
Willie spent 38 years working at Minor Ford in New Brighton, where he not only built a career but also met the love of his life, Barb. They were joined in holy marriage on June 8, 1968. They spent 57 wonderful years together building a life full of love, laughter, and family.
For 54 years, Willie and Barb made their home on the lake, where countless memories were created with their three children, four grandchildren, and many friends. He loved nothing more than time spent with family—whether that meant sharing a meal, hosting gatherings, or enjoying the simple pleasures of lake life.
Willie enjoyed being part of a bowling league for many years, playing cards with close friends, grilling outdoors, and relaxing with a cold beer. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Willie is survived by his wife, Barb; their three children, Kelli, Jodi (Steven), and Angi; four grandchildren, Zach (Kelsey), Jordyn, Mason, and Brooklynn; brother, David (Robin); and sister, Diane (Mike).
Preceded in death by his parents, Norman (Jim), and Eleanor; brothers, Dale, Ron, and Jim; sisters, Jean, Luanna, Vyonne, and Marlene.
A celebration of Willie’s life will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 1 p.m. at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Buffalo, MN. Visitation AT THE CHURCH, two hours prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo, MN.
He will be greatly missed by all!
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Mary Nagengast, 70
Mary M. Nagengast, age 70, of Buffalo, died Saturday, September 20, 2025, with family at her side at the Sleepy Eye Nursing home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Annandale. Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Annandale and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Fr. Kevin Magner will be the Celebrant. Burial will be held at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls at 2:00 p.m.
Mary Margaret Domeier was born to Kurt and Evelyn (Guggisberg) Domeier on August 15, 1955, in New Ulm. Mary was a proud 1974 graduate of Cathedral of the Holy Trinity High School in New Ulm. On June 24, 1977, she married her soulmate, Raymond P. Nagengast, and together, they built a life marked by unwavering support and affection. The couple were longtime residents of Maple Lake before making their home in Buffalo. Mary was a dedicated home health aide with Guardian Angels, embodying her compassionate spirit as she cared for those in need.
A lover of nature and the simple joys of life, Mary found great happiness in bird watching, spending time with her beloved dogs, and tackling jigsaw puzzles. She also cherished quiet moments spent with a good book. Her greatest joy came from her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, whose laughter and love filled her heart.
Mary is survived her husband, Raymond; children, Amy (Greg) Spude, Maple Lake, and Ryan (Brenda) Nagengast, of Maple Lake; grandchildren, Caden Ernest Carl and Addison Brea Joan; siblings, Ann Tucker, Cate (Tim) Macho, Lisa Langer (Brad Altman), Joe Domeier, and Tony (Laurie) Domeier; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kurt and Evelyn Domeier; and daughter, Brea Nagengast.
Todd Nagengast, Caden Blow, Abby Lindmeier, Jack Langer, Kurt Domeier, and Emily Tucker will serve as Casket Bearers. Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.
Sharon Spoors, 85
Sharon Ruth (Eng) Spoors, age 85, of Buffalo, MN, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025.
She was born on December 27, 1939, in Buffalo, MN, to Albin and Ruth (Bergstrom) Eng. Sharon grew up on the family farm in Buffalo—land that later became part of Zion Lutheran Church. She graduated from Buffalo High School with the Class of 1958 and went on to attend Augsburg College for a short time. During college, she worked part-time at Lindskoog Florist in Minneapolis, where she continued her employment until marrying Wyman Spoors on October 27, 1967. The two had met while attending evening school.
Sharon and Wyman made their first home in Brooklyn Center, living there for three years before building their family home in Buffalo in 1971, where they settled and raised their family. Over the years, Sharon worked at several part-time jobs, including the Village Peddler in Buffalo, Carlson Wagonlit Travel in Monticello, and as a wedding coordinator at Buffalo Covenant Church. She also faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, on the Pioneer Girl’s Decorating Committee, and in many other church roles.
Raised in a Christian home, Sharon’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She accepted Christ as her personal Savior at Bible camp as a young girl and lived her life as a devoted servant of God. Her kindness, quiet strength, and deep love for her family and church community will be remembered always.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Wyman; son, Douglas; daughter, Christine Lee; and brother-in-law, Leon Maksoudian.
Survived by her daughter, Amy (Jon) Makovsky; grandchildren, Katie (Alejandro), Becca (Joe), and Markus (Abigael); great-grandchildren, June, Anna Ruth, Bodin, and James; brothers, Al (Vernette) Eng and Cliff (Bonnie) Eng; sister-in-law, Lorraine Maksoudian; and many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation one hour prior at Buffalo Covenant Church, Buffalo, MN. Interment followed at Swedish Mission Cemetery in Buffalo.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
