Obituaries 11/02/23
Robert Bennett, 86
Robert C. Bennett passed away in the morning on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at the Champlin Shores Nursing home in Champlin, MN. He was 86 years old.
Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, October 30, 2023, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Kimball with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Maine Prairie Cemetery in Maine Prairie Township.
Robert died suddenly after health struggles starting on Monday, which were believed to be the result of his long-term struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was diagnosed about six years ago and had seen a steady decline in his mental and physical health over the past year.
Robert was an Air Force veteran, an avid sports fan, and he enjoyed gambling and playing checkers with friends and family.
He was born in Maine Prairie Township, in Stearns County, MN, near Kimball, on Sept. 12, 1937, to Alvin “Rusty” Bennett and Mildred (Brower) Bennett. His family were farmers, and they farmed areas in Stearns and Meeker Counties, near the cities of Kimball, Watkins, and Litchfield. His father died in a farm accident when Mr. Bennett was very young, and Robert and his six siblings were raised by their mother, Mildred - a teacher. Robert graduated from Grove City High School in 1955, where he played football and basketball. He enlisted in the Air Force shortly thereafter where he spent four years in military service stationed as an airplane mechanic, in Texas and South Dakota. He served on active duty, and in the reserves, from 1955 to 1963.
His career was spent as a heavy equipment operator and construction contractor, and he was a member of the Local #49 Union of Operating Engineers. He was known for being well-versed in a wide variety of construction trade skills - a self-proclaimed “Jack-of-All-Trades and master of none.” During his life he had built, or helped build, nearly a dozen houses in Minnesota, including two houses in rural Buffalo that he and his family lived in. He also helped his brothers, Jerald and Frank, with construction projects in California.
Robert lived, for most of his life, in or near Buffalo, MN. For most of the past several years, he resided in Las Vegas, NV.
Robert is survived by his sons, Ross Bennett, of Brooklyn Park, MN, 57, and Ryan Bennett, of Modesto, CA, 51; and his only living brother, Gary (Dorie) Bennett, of Wyoming, MN.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his sister, Betty Gross; and four of his brothers, Jerald Bennett, of Bellflower, CA, Glenn Bennett, of Kimball, MN, Gene Bennett, of St. Cloud, MN, and Frank Bennett, of Las Vegas, NV.
Obituary, Guestbook, and Video Tribute online at www.dingmannfuneral.com
Carol Broman, 76
Carol Ann Broman, age 76, peacefully passed away on October 28, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on April 28, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to George and Helen (Chastek) Good. Carol was raised in the Hopkins area and completed her education at Hopkins High School. Following her graduation, she pursued her passion for beauty and attended beauty school, eventually becoming the proud owner and operator of her own salon, which she operated out of her home.
On September 17, 1966, Carol embarked on a lifelong journey of love and partnership when she married the love of her life, Floyd Henry Broman, at John Hus Presbyterian Church in Minnetonka, MN. Their union was a testament to their unwavering commitment to each other and their family.
While Carol initially dedicated herself to her successful salon, she gradually transitioned into assisting her husband in building their greenhouse business and raising their family. Her dedication and hard work were evident in every aspect of her life, whether on the farm or in her role as a loving wife and mother.
Carol was deeply committed to her faith and her community. She was actively involved in volunteering at Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers, participating in women’s retreats and various church groups and organizations. Her selflessness and kind-hearted nature shone through in her willingness to support those around her.
She cherished the opportunity to socialize with her friends, whether it was over a lunch outing or playing cards. She found immense joy in being a grandmother and caring for those she loved. Her quiet, humble demeanor was a testament to her caring and nurturing spirit, which touched the lives of everyone she met.
Carol also had a love for travel to visit family members around the country and enjoyed going on cruises with Floyd.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Floyd; her parents, George and Helen Good; her brother, Gary Good; brothers-in-law, Bruce and Roy Broman; and sisters-in-law, Marcene Olson and Lucille Broman.
She is survived by her devoted sons, Kevin (Sara) and James (Kate); and her cherished grandchildren, Austin (24), Allie (21), and Cooper (14). Carol is also survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Ben (Ruth) Broman, Sylvia (Sheldon) Severson, Rita Kelly, David Broman, and Judy Good; as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. A memorial service to celebrate Carol’s life will be held Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation one hour prior at Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers, MN. Inurnment will take place at Word of Peace Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be directed to Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Floyd Broman, 81
Floyd Henry Broman, a dedicated Greenhouse Grower, loving husband, father, and faithful member of his community, passed away on October 1, 2023, at the age of 81. He was born on March 31, 1942, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Hugo and Clara (Hedlund) Broman.
Floyd’s early years were spent on a farm in Plymouth, Minnesota, where he cultivated a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the land. After graduating from high school in Wayzata, he made a commitment to his country by enlisting in the Army. Upon completing his service, Floyd returned to his family’s farm, where he continued the agricultural tradition that he held dear.
On September 17, 1966, Floyd embarked on a new chapter of his life when he married the love of his life, Carol Good, at John Hus Presbyterian Church in Minnetonka, MN. Their union was a testament to their unwavering love and partnership, spanning nearly six decades.
In 1965, Floyd embarked on a new chapter in his farming journey, starting his wholesale greenhouse business, which he then moved to Corcoran, MN, in 1978, primarily focusing on bedding plants and vegetable cultivation. His passion and dedication to his greenhouse were second to none, and it became the cornerstone of his life’s work. Over the years, Floyd’s commitment to the agricultural community was unwavering, and he served as a dedicated board member of the Central Minnesota Vegetable Growers Association. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Floyd was honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious University of Minnesota Family Farm of the Year in 2017.
Beyond the fields, Floyd was an active participant in the Minneapolis Farmer’s Market, where he shared his harvest and knowledge with the community. His involvement in Word of Peace Church in Rogers was equally important to him. Floyd was a member since 1978 and even served as president of the congregation for many years. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he volunteered tirelessly to support his church.
In addition to his farming and faith commitments, Floyd was a devoted Vikings fan. His charismatic personality and love for banter made him a joy to be around, and he was known for his unbiased and unwavering support for his loved ones. His loyalty, unmatched work ethic, and above all, his generosity, were his defining characteristics.
Floyd was preceded in death by his parents, Hugo and Clara; as well as his brothers, Bruce and Roy; and sisters, Marcene Olson and Lucille Broman.
He is survived by his wife, Carol; sons, Kevin (Sara) and James (Kate); his cherished grandchildren, Austin (24), Allie (21), and Cooper (14); and his siblings, Ben (Ruth), Sylvia (Sheldon) Severson, Rita Kelly, and David Broman. Floyd also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. A memorial service to celebrate Floyd’s life will be held Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation one hour prior at Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers, MN. Inurnment will take place at Word of Peace Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be directed to Word of Peace Lutheran Church in Rogers.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
Ruth Oestreich, 79
Ruth Ann Alvina Oestreich, 79, of Buffalo, Minnesota (formerly Howard Lake) was called to the Church Triumphant on October 22, 2023.
Ruth was born January 7, 1944, to Roy and Evelyn (née Brelje) Burau. She was baptized on January 30, 1944, confirmed on March 30, 1958, and married at St. James Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Howard Lake, MN. She married Harvey Jerome Oestreich on May 23, 1964. They were blessed with two children, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and she was expecting two more great-grandchildren.
Ruth spent her entire career at 3M in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Much of that time involved her taking additional training and in a leadership role with the 3M Club. In addition, she helped Harv farm. Her interests included gardening, canning, sewing, and fishing. She and Harv spent much time traveling, both with and without their RV. Ruth was active in St. James’ LWML, and she and Harv delivered meals on wheels. Ruth was also active in two different Red Hat Societies.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Harvey; her parents; and her niece, Tabitha Roepke.
She is survived by her 11 siblings, Gerald, DeLloyd, Roger, Janice, Coleen, Vivian, Dale, Una, Mavis, Dean and Mary Kay; children, Joanne Jarvis (Rob) and Philip Oestreich (Susan); grandchildren, Hannah Seek (Tim), Sarah deVall (Luke), Samuel Oestreich; two great-grandsons, Noah and Rowan Seek; five godchildren, Dawn Christodoulou, Mark Burau, Raquel Burau, Andrea Ellingson, Jeff Roepke; and many other relatives and friends.
A Service of Christian Burial and Interment is scheduled for November 10, 2023, at 2 p.m. Rev. Mark Loder of St. James Lutheran Church and Rev. Rob Jarvis will be officiating; Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements in Minnesota. Memorials may be given to either LWML at St. James, or St. James Lutheran Church.
Howard Schleif, 96
February 10, 1927 – October 28, 2023
Howard Willard Schleif, age 96, of Corcoran, was called home on October 28, 2023. He was born on February 10, 1927, in Greenfield Township to Richard and Katherine (Stassen) Schleif. Howard was baptized and confirmed at Salem Lutheran Church.
Howard grew up in Greenfield Township with his brothers, Gerald, Donald, Delmar, and Ralph. He attended school through 8th grade at the little white school in Burschville and graduated from Buffalo High School in 1945.
On October 1, 1950, Howard and Marlys were married and were blessed with 64 years of marriage and three sons. They spent many years living in Hopkins before moving back to the Corcoran area. Howard has missed Marlys tremendously since she passed away in 2015.
Howard honorably served in the US Army (WWII) and the Army Reserve for 37 years as a Sargent Major. He worked at Minneapolis Moline/White Farm Equipment for 42 years. He has been a life member of VFW Post 425 and the American Legion Post 567 in St. Michael.
He farmed for 37 years, loved hunting, gardening, and traveling with Marlys. Howard was also a Boy Scout Leader, served on the Corcoran Planning Commission and City Council, and has been a member of Salem Lutheran Church for many years.
Survived by sons, Terry (Robin), Kenneth (Susan), and Daryl; grandchildren, Nathan (Heather), Kelly, Matthew (Melissa), Jennie (Tim), Amy (Jon), Lisa (Tanner), and Rene (Dan); and 17 great-grandchildren, Austin, Braden, Haylee, Jax, Joss, Emersyn, Avyn, Dustin, Lillianna, Marlys, Asher, Bodyn, Coen, Colton, Ava, Nora, and one on the way. Also, survived by brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jack and Renata Russek, Duane Beise, and Verdell Schleif; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services for Howard Schleif will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11:00 A.M., at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Greenfield. Pastor David Russow will officiate.
Interment with military rites will follow at Salem Lutheran Cemetery.
A visitation will be held on Saturday morning, November 4, from 9:00 A.M., until time of services AT THE CHURCH.
Casket Bearers will be Matthew Schleif, Nathan Schleif, Tim Harding, Jon Lund, Paul Schleif, and Mark Tiemann.
The Peterson Chapel St. Michael-Albertville Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com.
