Obituaries 03/26/26
Gina Barthel, 50
Gina Barthel, age 50, of Elk River, passed into eternal life March 17, 2026.
She is preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Barthel.
Survived by mother, Cathy (Beaudry) Barthel; siblings, Kevin (Heidi) Barthel, Sharon (Dan) Berning, Dan (Kathy) Barthel, Tony (Kris) Barthel, Michelle (Dave) Steele, Angela (Brian) Lenneman; many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Gina was born on January 25, 1976, into a family filled with a lot of fun adventures and competitive spirit. Working as a youth minister and later at Franciscan University, she developed a deep faith. This led to her joining the Sisters of Life in New York City. Though she left after one year, the sisters have continued to enjoy her yearly retreats with them. Mother Mary Concepta was one of Gina’s closest friends.
After the convent, she became a nurse and found her life’s work in providing hospice care. Gina always knew how to bring laughter and understanding to each family, in addition to her incredible knowledge of how to ease the dying process.
As an adult, she was a victim of clergy abuse. This terrible betrayal left her gravely wounded and feeling angry at the church. But her heart always longed to be reunited with Jesus in the Eucharist. Through the support of many counselors and friends, she not only found healing but a renewed joy in being Catholic. Her no-nonsense approach made her an advocate for other victims. Gina instructed seminarians on how to deal with victims of abuse and how to set appropriate boundaries in their ministry. Bishop Andrew Cozzens journeyed with Gina for over a decade of spiritual guidance and encouragement that restored her hope for the Church and trust in God.
All who knew Gina “the great” were in love with her hilarious wit. She loved practical jokes and game nights. Because of her amazing love, she found family in many places. Special family/friends include the Brandon and Maria Wulf family, Matt and Mary Paquette family, Steve and Katie Mize family, John and Laurie O’Sullivan family, Laura Brekke, Betty Benson, and many more.
But the most attractive thing about Gina was her love. She had a way of letting you know you were loved and accepted just as you are. As she was dying of recurrent ovarian cancer, Grace Hospice provided amazing care. They kept commenting on how she knew so many amazing people and how unusual it was to have such a vast and dedicated team of friends and family. Each of these caregivers had been changed by their relationship with Gina and wanted to return the favor.
On her last retreat this January, she experienced such a deep understanding of the Lord’s profound love and mercy that she lived her last weeks with uncommon grace, forgiveness, and love. Her dying wish was for a holy death. Indeed, her last days were a time of many rosaries, Divine Mercy chaplets, stories shared between friends and family, and an overarching sense of being in the presence of something sacred. Her parting wish is that whenever you miss Gina, seek her with Jesus in the tabernacle.
Visitation was Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at The Church of St. Albert - Albertville, MN.
Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, March 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Catholic Church of Saint Paul - 1740 Bunker Lake Blvd. NE - Ham Lake, MN. Visitation one hour prior to the Mass (10:30 a.m. Eulogies). Funeral Mass was live streamed on the Church of St. Paul website.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Grace Hospice, Sisters of Life (sistersoflife.org), and The Church of Saint Paul/Ham Lake would be appreciated. In lieu of sending Thank you’s, the family will be making a donation to Gina’s favorite charities.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Christian Coolen, 85
Christian C. Coolen, age 85, of Buffalo, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, March 15, 2026. He was born in Buffalo on January 31, 1941, the son of Lawrence A. and Sabina M. (Flynn) Coolen. On September 11, 1972, Christian C. Coolen was joined in holy marriage to Katherine J. Dvorak at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo.
We remember Christian as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and great-grandfather whose gentle heart, faith, and humor touched everyone around him. A gifted craftsman, handyman, and engineer who could build and fix anything. He loved the beauty of nature, birds, and to garden – a true “servant of the land.”
He cherished his family, building special memories with those he loved, sharing laughter, stories, and a love of music. His home was always open, his spirit generous, and his humor infectious.
Though we will miss him deeply, we give thanks for his life, his love, and the joy he brought to all of us. May we carry his faith, kindness, and laughter in our hearts always.
Christian is survived by his daughter, Christine (Mark) Strehlow, of St. Michael; granddaughters, Elizabeth Strehlow and Jessica (Justin) Barnett; great-grandson, Brady; and great-granddaughter, Eden; brothers, William and Joe Coolen; sister, Margaret (Fred) Bunting; many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by wife, Katherine; his parents; brothers, James and Mark Coolen; and sister, Marian Coolen.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Christian C. Coolen was held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at The St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael. Father Alex Rasset was the Celebrant.
Interment followed at St. Mark’s Cemetery-Pelican Lake.
A visitation was held on Tuesday, March 24, from 5-7 P.M. at The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home. A Prayer service was held at 7:00 P.M.
Casket Bearers were Williiam “Will” Coolen, Joe Coolen, John Coolen, Fredrick Bunting, Mark Strehlow, Jason Weber, and Brady Bollmann.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home served the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Kristin Hausladen, 49
Kristin Marie Hausladen, age 49, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Lake Ridge Oasis in Buffalo, MN. She was born in Fargo, ND, on April 3, 1976; she was the daughter of Dean L. & Sandra F. (Jerebek) Olson.
She and her family moved to Bismarck, ND, early in her life, and she spent most of her childhood years growing up there. She was active in church and school activities including choir, volleyball, and basketball, as well as helping her grandparents with their farm south of Mandan, ND.
She graduated high school in 1994 from Century High with academic and athletic honors and went on to attend a local community college. Kristin followed in her father’s footsteps and had a long career working in Telecommunications for Lumen Communications in an agent sales and support role.
Kristin had many passions in her life, including her family and friends, in which she had an abundance of time for, and was always attentive to. She also never met an animal she didn’t like as evidenced by her many animals she cared for, including chickens, cats, and her beloved dogs.
Kristin stayed active later in her life with volleyball and bowling, participating in several local leagues. She also enjoyed the occasional game of chance, whether through a local meat raffle or a trip to the local casino.
Kristin is survived by her soul mate and husband, Mat Hausladen; a daughter, Hunter Alinder and her daughters, Danielle and Leah; two sons, Chance Alinder and Brock Meyer; a brother, Craig Olson; and other relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
A Memorial Service will be held at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation starting at 1:00 pm. There will be a celebration of life directly following the memorial at Hollywood Sports Complex in Watertown, MN.
The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Gary Lindenfelser, 70
Gary J. Lindenfelser, age 70, of Litchfield, formerly of Maple Lake, died Monday, March 16, 2026, at the St. Cloud Hospital after a long and tough battle with cancer.
Memorial Services were held 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Maple Lake with Pastor Dan Courtney officiating. Burial followed at Maple Lake Community Cemetery. Visitation was held from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Sunday and one hour prior to the service on Monday, both at the funeral home.
Gary Joseph Lindenfelser was born on March 4, 1956, in Buffalo, Minnesota, to Francis “Pete” and Rita (Zahler) Lindenfelser. He grew up in St. Michael, where he was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael Catholic Church. He was a 1974 graduate of St. Michael-Albertville High School.
Gary was united in marriage to Diane Bromeling on August 23, 1975, in Big Lake. Their journey began in St. Michael, moving to Clarissa, where they worked the land alongside Diane’s family, nurturing both crops and the roots of their own family. Later, in Otsego, they took a bold step, starting a sanitation business, G. Lindenfelser Garbage Service. After selling the garbage service, Gary worked as a heavy equipment operator at several landfills. Gary’s unwavering commitment to his family led them to Maple Lake, where they lovingly raised their children and cared for their hobby farm.
Gary enjoyed giving rides to his grandkids, whether in tractors or anything that had wheels. His passion for farming and threshing shows was matched only by his fondness for auctions, woodworking, campfires, and the warmth of a wood stove, a must have in any home they resided in. His love of old things was reflected in his full garage and countless antiques. An avid fisherman and card player, Gary cherished the moments spent with family and friends, whether they were gathered around a crackling fire or enjoying the tranquility of nature, especially in Duluth.
Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Diane; children, Mike (Shelley), of Waverly, William (Cathy), of Eden Valley, and Kristy, of Litchfield; grandchildren, Matthew, Thomas, Laura, Adam, Jenny, Joseph, and Kenna; mother, Rita, of Hanover; siblings, Wayne (Louella), of Rathdrum, ID, Debby (Randy) Carron, of Otsego, Rollie (Marcia), of Aitkin, Denice (Russell) Heins, of Buffalo, and Sue (Joe) Hagerty, of St. Michael; and many nieces, nephews, other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Francis “Pete.”
Gary’s grandchildren served as urn bearers. Arrangements were entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial Services of Maple Lake.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute and Service Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.
Andra Olson, 60
Andra Michelle Olson, 60, of Monticello, MN, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, surrounded by family.
Andra was born on November 17, 1965, to Tony and Sharon Iano. She spent her early years growing up in Des Moines, IA, and Lebanon, NJ, before her family settled in Monticello during her middle school years. She graduated from Monticello High School and went on to attend and graduate from Concordia University, St. Paul.
On September 5, 1987, Andra married the love of her life, Dan Olson. Together, they built a life and started their family in Monticello, where they created a home full of love, energy, and lasting memories.
Andra began her career at State Farm, where she built a strong professional foundation. It was through her growing passion and natural talent in mounted shooting that she found her true calling, eventually leading her to transition into entrepreneurship. Along the way, she co-founded AJ Horses, further deepening her involvement in the equestrian world. Andra went on to become a nationally recognized spokesperson for Colt Firearms, specializing in horse training, and developing a variety of sport-specific equestrian products manufactured out of her home. Through her drive and talent, Andra earned sponsorship from Colt Firearms, achieved the remarkable distinction of being a three-time world champion competitive mounted shooter, and was inducted into the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA) Hall of Fame in 2018.
Andra lived out her Christian faith quietly, but powerfully—through the way she loved, welcomed, and showed up for others each day. Her magnetic spirit resulted in a home always full of kids, noise, and laughter, with doors that were never closed to anyone. She had a mischievous sense of humor and was always ready with a well-timed prank. Between pots of cowboy coffee and slices of pie at the kitchen table, she created a place where everyone felt like they belonged.
In 2014, on the way home from an equestrian event, Andra was hit by a drunk driver just one mile from her home—an event that changed her life forever. Through it all, she faced challenges with resilience and determination, continuing to inspire those around her with her strength.
Her spirit continued to shine brightly after her accident. With unwavering determination, she returned to the things she loved most. She rode horses with True Strides, embraced the thrill of downhill skiing through Courage Kenny, and spent time water skiing on Lake Pulaski.
Andra is survived by her loving husband, Dan Olson; her son, Michael (Gayle) Olson, and their children, Gordie and Marin; her daughter, Allie (Sam) Johnson, and their children, Stevie and Cam; her parents, Tony and Sharon Iano; her brother, Rick (Jan) Iano; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, from 4–7 p.m., with a prayer service to conclude, at Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Home in Monticello. A second visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 27, at Buffalo Covenant Church.
Services will be livestreamed at: buffalocov.org/live/
In honor of Andra, donations may be made to True Friends (designate “True Strides”), Courage Kenny (designate “Adaptive ski program”) or Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Chapel of Monticello, MN, 763-295-2918, www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com.
DeLoris Rohlin, 95
DeLoris “Dee” Theresa Rohlin, age 95, of Buffalo, MN, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, surrounded by her family.
Dee was born the daughter of John and Katherine (Cordell) Geyen on September 30, 1930, in Corinna Township and was a graduate of Annandale High School. She attended Minneapolis School of Business and spent her early career working in a dental clinic in Minneapolis until she achieved her dream “job” as a full-time mother and grandmother.
Dee cherished the time spent with her family and created countless cherished memories through many shared adventures and traditions. Dee and Bob enjoyed traveling adventures, relaxing days at the family cabin in Breezy Point, participating in lively Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, and celebrating the children’s birthday parties. Dee remained deeply involved in many volunteer activities.
Dee will be deeply missed by all who knew her warm spirit, dedication to family, and joyful presence in their lives.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Rohlin; her parents, John and Katherine (Cordell) Geyen; parents-in-law, George and Elsie Rohlin; sisters, Evelyn, Helen, Lenora, Melvina, and Katherine; brothers, Lloyd, Norman, Mike, Donald and Jack; brother-in-law, Roy Rohlin; sister-in-law, Dorothy Letcher; and several nieces and nephews.
Dee is survived by her loving daughters, Cathy (Richard) Johnson and Kristin (Dan) Kuhlmann; her loving sons, Robb (Jory) Rohlin, Peter Rohlin, Jamie (Amy) Rohlin; grandchildren, Rochelle (Bill) Wyers, Zachary (Julie) Clifton, Mackenzie (Taylor) Clifton, Tori Clifton, Lauren (Raymen) Rice, Robbie Rohlin, Jacob (Courtney) Rohlin, Dakota Bruns, Dylan (Kate) Rohlin, Hayley Rohlin, Madison (Carlo Pauldine) Kuhlmann, Connor (Morgan) Kuhlmann; step-granddaughters, Jessica Eull and Heather (Kyle) Anderson; great-grandchildren, Owen and Ayla Wyers, Mavrick Clifton, Avery Anderson, Bailey Eull, Nathan Eull, Dakota, Payton and Kamryn Rice, Noah, Adalynn and Brooklyn Rohlin; also many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorials are preferred to MCCL (Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life), 4249 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55409.
Mass of Christian Burial for Dee will be held Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo, MN.
Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Buffalo, MN
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
Dennis Thingvold, 82
Dennis Bruce Thingvold, age 82, of Buffalo, MN, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Dennis was born on September 22, 1943, in Minneapolis, the son of John and Selma “Sally” (Ishaug) Thingvold. He was raised in Rockford, Minnesota, where he spent his early years working on a nearby family farm, and graduated from Rockford High School in 1961.
He proudly served in the United States Army through the Minnesota National Guard, where he contributed to his community and country with dedication and honor.
In 1969, he married Mary Lou Viola Vergin and had three children, Steve, Lisa, and Jason. Dennis was a compassionate caregiver for Mary throughout her long battle with cancer and subsequent illness, until her passing in 2002.
In 1989, Dennis earned his private pilot’s license, fulfilling a dream of taking to the skies. Flying became a cherished passion that he enjoyed sharing with family and friends.
Dennis transitioned into real estate investing, where his sharp mind and entrepreneurial spirit allowed him to build a successful career. Remarkably, he could recall events from decades past with perfect clarity—yet birthdays of immediate family members often slipped his mind, a quirk that family teased him about fondly and that became part of his endearing character.
Dennis found great joy in snowmobiling during his younger years with his good friend, Lyle Wagner. As time went on, his adventures shifted to the open road; he enjoyed road trips with his wife and children, and later with his grandchildren, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.
Above all, Dennis cherished family. He enjoyed family gatherings where laughter filled the air and stories were shared. He also loved spending time in his woods and at family land in northern MN—surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Dennis is survived by his children, Steve (Jenny Lloyd) Thingvold, Lisa (Amos) Root, and Jason Thingvold; grandchildren, Gavin Pfeffer, Brienn Thingvold, Emily Root, and Evan Root; siblings, Shirley Jacobs, Daryle (Suzette) Thingvold, and Doug (Carole) Thingvold; also, many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Selma “Sally” Thingvold; his wife, Mary Thingvold; siblings, John Wallace “Wally” (Lois) Thingvold, Frances (Reider) Hansen, Lyle (Shirley) Thingvold, and Richard “Dickie” Thingvold.
A celebration of Dennis’ life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared by the family.
Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo, MN.
