Obituaries 02/26/26
Clarine Elliott, 92
July 3, 1933 - January 23, 2026
Clarine “Clare” Agnes Elliott (Barthel) originally from Buffalo, MN, passed away peacefully January 23, 2026, at the age of 92, at Taylor Care Center in Jacksonville, FL, surrounded by her daughter, Terri Nordeen and husband, David.
Clare was born on July 3, 1933, in Buffalo, Minnesota. She was the youngest daughter of Mathew and Emma Barthel who had five children, Ronald Barthel (Rose), Rita Soltau (Cliff), Harvey Barthel (Bev), and Harriet Carlson (Woody), and Clare.
Clare is also preceded in death by her parents and four siblings.
Clare is survived by her daughter, Brenda Williams, daughter, Terri Nordeen (David); grandsons, Maclain Williams (Steffi), Riley Williams (Maddie), Noah Nordeen; and great-grandchildren, Mardy and Nellie Jo Williams; many nieces and nephews.
Clare graduated from Buffalo High School and married Duane “Porky” Elliott in 1959. Clare was a lifelong resident of Buffalo, MN, until her last two years when she resided in Jacksonville, FL, near her daughter, Terri and family. Clare worked at Northwestern National Bank in downtown Minneapolis, Holmquist’s grocery store in Buffalo, and eventually retired from Lake Ridge Nursing Home in Buffalo after 22 years of service.
Clare was a faithful member of St. Francis Catholic Church and loved volunteering at the King’s House with friends. She enjoyed playing bingo, dancing, shopping, but especially spending time with her family. Clare will be remembered for her humor, her love of cooking, and her unconditional love of her family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be on April 23, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 300 1st Avenue NW, Buffalo, MN. Visitation at 10:00 a.m. and funeral at 11:00 a.m. There will be a luncheon following the funeral on the lower level of the church. The burial will follow at the St. Francis Cemetery. Clare loved the color red, and wearing red celebrates her joyful spirit. If you wish, please respectfully wear red in honor of Clare.
Arrangements by Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Gene Persian, 84
Gene Archie Persian was born on February 5, 1942, and welcomed into the arms of Jesus on February 13, 2026.
Gene was born in Buffalo to Arvid A. Persian and Doris L. (Nord) Persian. He graduated from Buffalo High School in 1960 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Minnesota in 1964. He met the love of his life, Rosalynn “Rosie” Libra, at a Valentine’s Day dance in 1959. They were married on June 20, 1964, and welcomed four children into their family. Their union spanned over 61 years and served as a testament to true devotion and true love with a lifetime of shared memories.
Gene spent his adult life dedicated to the family business, Persian Business Equipment, begun in 1932 by his father. A man who truly loved his work and serving his customers, Gene planned to never fully retire. He lived that promise, serving his loyal customers with the same passion and integrity right up until this past Christmas.
Beyond his professional life, Gene loved the outdoors. Early on, he enjoyed hunting trips out West and fishing in Canada and the Great Lakes. He looked forward to the annual deer opener trip “up north,” a streak spanning 70 years, where he eventually taught all four grandsons his passion for hunting. Some of his other favorite moments were those spent sitting in a boat with his children and grandchildren passing on his love of nature.
Second only to his love for Jesus, Gene’s family was his everything. He loved his children unconditionally and cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a constant fixture at hockey rinks, baseball fields, the basketball court, cross-country and track meets, and lacrosse fields. Watching his grandchildren play filled him with immense joy, and he relished every second spent cheering them on. Just as he had lived, surrounded by love for his grandchildren, the day before he passed, Gene welcomed his newest great-grandson into the world, Theodore Gene Persian.
Gene’s love for Jesus and strong faith were a beacon to many, including his family. He guided countless individuals toward a new beginning, helping them recognize their worth and embrace the acceptance offered by their Savior, Jesus Christ. A faithful servant to the Lord, Gene spent 25 plus years in jail ministry, touching an immeasurable number of lives with his kindness and message of hope.
Gene was surrounded by family upon his passing and is dearly missed. His family takes great comfort in knowing he entered heaven hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Arvid and Doris Persian; and brother, Jon Persian.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Rosie; children, Douglas (Ann) Persian, of Milaca, MN, Lisa (Gary) Wolf, of Roseville, MN, Tiffany (Howard) Reinhard, of Watertown, MN, and Kristi (Dan) Ross, of Watertown, MN; grandchildren, Eli Wolf, Zachary (Kelsey) Persian, Kiera Reinhard, Chloe (Diego) Garcia, Evan and Camden Ross, and 11 new step-grandchildren; great-grandchildren, Audrey, Avery, and Theodore Gene Persian, and many new step-great grandchildren; siblings, Yvonne (Russ) Barto and Jim Persian; many nieces, nephews and friends.
A celebration of life will be held in early summer.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Phyllis Pollock, 92
June 11, 1933 - February 16, 2026
Phyllis Joy (Housman) Pollock, age 92, of Saint Michael, Minnesota, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026. Phyllis was born on June 11, 1933, to John (Harold Earl) and Violia Mae (Peifer) Housman at their home in Litchfield, Minnesota. She was raised on the family farm with her five siblings and attended country school District 15. Later, she transferred to Litchfield High School where she graduated in 1951.
During her school years, she was part of 4H. At one of those meetings, she met the love of her life, Lyle Allen Pollock. They would drive around with their siblings and friends in a 1941 Jeep, sometimes skating or swimming, going to the movies and dances. Lyle and Phyllis’ relationship stayed strong while Lyle joined the National Guard and was deployed to Korea in 1951. Upon his return from the Korean War, they married at St. Phillips Catholic Church in Litchfield on April 25, 1953.
Phyllis and Lyle lived in Gaylord, Minnesota, for a few years where they had their daughter, Terrae, and son, David. They moved back to Litchfield, where they had the rest of their children. Eventually, due to Lyle’s long commute to the cities for work, they moved to St. Michael, Minnesota, which became their home for the rest of their lives.
Phyllis loved to travel, often camping with her family and traveling the United States in their motorhome. She had a passion for family history and spent years of her life researching and traveling to uncover the secrets of her family’s past. All she learned, she later passed to her children and grandchildren in books she made for them.
She loved education and enjoyed her time in college where she earned her certificate to be a legal assistant. Her love of writing was revived through those classes.
Phyllis was incredibly talented on a sewing machine. She made quilts, rugs, costumes, and dresses for her children and grandchildren. If there was a need, she was always happy to help. Even if it meant she had to figure out what a Teletubby was. After she lost Lyle, she turned her attention to making rosaries by the thousands up until her passing. She donated them all, and they brought her great joy.
She is survived by her children, Daniel (Renae) Pollock, Douglas (Cindy) Pollock, Greg (Karen) Pollock, Beverly (Brian) Schwandt; her twelve grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Joyce Housman; and many nieces and nephews.
Phyllis is preceded in death by her husband, Lyle; parents, John and Violia; stepmother, Florance (Hughes) Housman; son, David Pollock; daughter, Terrae (Pollock) Hudek; grandson, Nichola Pollock; siblings, Jeraldine (Herbie) Johnson, Donna Housman, Bud (Milton) Housman, Kathleen Housman, Barbara (John) Chmilek; stepbrothers, Peter Hughes and Tom Hughes.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Phyllis Joy Pollock will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., at The St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael.
Inurnment will follow at The St. Michael Cemetery.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26, beginning at 9:00 A.M. until time of Mass AT THE CHURCH.
Urn Bearer will be April Schwandt.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
James Schermer, Sr., 84
James “Jim” Schermer, Sr.,
age 84, of Becker, formerly of Monticello, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Shepherd of Grace in Becker. Jim’s health had been declining in recent months. His wife, Marlys, lovingly cared for him at home until additional support became necessary. Hospice care began on February 11, providing comfort during his final days.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Silver Creek Community Church, Silver Creek, with Pastor Dave Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Silver Creek Township. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Friday at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Annandale and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.
James Dale Schermer was born on May 2, 1941, in Silver Creek, Minnesota, to Tunis and Jennie (Hofman) Schermer. He grew up on the family farm near Silver Creek and later answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force in December 1960. On June 3, 1961, Jim married Marlys Elaine Ordorff at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo. Their marriage spanned more than six decades with three children, seven grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.
Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force from December 1960 until December 1968. He was stationed at Edwards Air Force Base in California and later at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, where he worked as a Flight Line Engineer and Crew Chief. He especially loved flying and took great pride in being part of the historic X-15 flight testing program-an accomplishment he often spoke of with pride.
Following his military service, Jim returned with his family to Silver Creek. He worked for UPS for 26 years, retiring in 1995. After retirement, Jim and Marlys spent 24 years wintering in Arizona, fully enjoying the snowbird lifestyle. Jim had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting deer, antelope, and elk in Minnesota, Montana, and Colorado, as well as fishing, traveling, camping, watching and reading westerns, building bird houses, and spending time outside. He became a honeybee keeper and also tapped many Maple trees for syrup. They both became side businesses for him.
After suffering a massive stroke in 2020 while in Arizona, Jim and Marlys moved back to Minnesota and into Shepherd of Grace Assisted Living. There, Jim found joy in playing cards-especially 500-along with bingo and other games, and he greatly treasured the friendships he formed.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Marlys; his children, Teresa (Garret) Goorhouse, Michelle (John) McKusick, and Jimmy (Eileen) Schermer Jr.; brother, Keith (Sally) Schermer; sister, Ora Mae Wiedema; sister-in-law, Darla Schermer; grandchildren, Kyle, Kayla, and Katelyn Goorhouse, Stuart Long and Milissa Holland (fiancé, Jonathan Westberg), Isabella, and Alexander Schermer; great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tunis and Jennie Schermer; brothers, Norman and Larry; sister, Kathy Schermer; sister-in-law, Bernice; and brother-in-law, Tom Wiedema.
Stuart Long, Alexander Schermer, Isabella Schermer, Jordan Thibadeau, Jon Westberg, Adam Soare will serve as casket bearers for the service.
Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale. Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Service Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.
Geraldine Smith, 92
Geraldine Mae (Meehan) Smith, 92, died Feb. 16, 2026, at her home in Waverly, MN.
Gerry was born Sept. 10, 1933, in Marysville Township to Mike and Della Meehan. She joined her sisters, Lois and Jeanne, on the farm outside of Waverly.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Don.
She is survived by her children, Brad (Pam), of Howard Lake, Eileen, of Minneapolis, Laurie, of Waverly; grandchildren, Nick (Sarena) Sopkowiak, of Northfield, Anna Smith, of Howard Lake; and great-grandchildren, Liliana, Elowyn, and Oliver Sopkowiak; nieces and nephews, godchildren, and many friends.
Mass of Christian burial was held on Saturday, February 21, at 11 a.m. at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Waverly. Visitation was held from 9 to 10:45 a.m., Saturday morning at the church.
The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com.
Cynthia Wright, 75
Cynthia “Cindy” Lucille (Zumbrunnen) Wright, age 75, of Buffalo, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Cindy was born to Robert and Wanda (King) Zumbrunnen in Manhattan Beach, Minnesota. She lived a life rooted in family, laughter, and connection. She was a devoted wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who will be fondly remembered for her sharp poker skills, love of travel, famous Christmas goodie trays, deep passion for genealogy, and the joy she found in spending time with family and friends. Her quick wit and warm sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her children, Shannon Wright, of Kempton, Indiana, and Faith (Gordon) Sage, of Buffalo, Minnesota.
She was a proud grandmother to Catherine “Paige” Wright, of Indianapolis, Indiana; Shannon Wright II, of Bloomington, Indiana; Cody Ruby (Lora Jefferson), of Montrose, Minnesota; Derrick Sage (Liz Tinnel), of Buffalo, Minnesota; Corbin (Isabella) Ruby, of Montrose, Minnesota; Kassondra Sage, of Albert Lea, Minnesota; and Chainey Sage, of Monticello, Minnesota.
Cindy was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Zylee, Adalynn, Kinlee, Peyton Ruby, Millie, Brayden, Owen, Bellamie, Peyton Vokel, Bennett, and Ryker, each of whom brought her tremendous joy.
She is further survived by her siblings, Stanley (Louise) Zumbrunnen, of Big Lake, Minnesota, and Wendy (Roger) Hoplin, of Pine River, Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Juanita (Donald) Zumbrunnen and Kris (Milton) Zumbrunnen; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 34 years, Roger Wright; her parents, Robert and Wanda; her siblings, Donald, Larry, Milton, Steven, and Kathy; her beloved granddaughter, Kassondra; and her great-granddaughter, Peyton Ruby.
A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28, 2026, at The Peterson Chapel, 300 Main Street, St. Michael, Minnesota 55376 with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the service at 11:00 a.m., luncheon to follow at the chapel.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the friends, family members, nurses, doctors, and support staff who provided care, comfort, and compassion.
In lieu of fresh flowers, the family kindly asks that trees, bushes, or plants (zone 3) be given to help create a memorial garden in honor of Cindy’s love of the outdoors.
