August 2024

Larry Ray Hoffmann, 76, of Litchfield, husband of Karen Hoffmann, passed away on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at his home due to heart complications, and was surrounded by his loving family. As a faithful Christian, Larry faithfully believed in the importance of love and forgiveness, living his life by the sentiment, “Always remember to forgive; it’s the greatest love you can give or receive”.

Francella “Fran” Schmitz, 81, of Kimball died Saturday, August 10, 2024, at home knowing she was deeply loved. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, August 16, 2024, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Kimball, with Fr. Donald Wagner as Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Anne Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m. on Thursday and 10 11 a.m. on Friday, both at the Church of St. Anne. A rosary will be said for Fran at 7 p.m. on Thursday at the church. Francella Lillian Rudolph was born on July 10, 1943, in St. Cloud to Steven and Gertrude (Weitzel) Rudolph. Fran grew up in St. Cloud and was a 1961 graduate of Cathedral High School. On October 2, 1965, Fran was united in marriage to Anthony Schmitz at St. Augustine Catholic Church in St. Cloud. She and Tony made their home in rural Kimball, along with their children. In addition to making their house a home, Fran also worked at Precision Components, later known as Tech Etch in Litchfield as an inspector. Fran found joy in sharing her passion for sewing, watching the Minnesota Twins, and giving big hugs. Her green thumb was evident in her beautiful garden, a reflection of her nurturing spirit. Whether socializing with loved ones or exploring the world through her travels to places such as Europe, Jamaica, Japan, and many U.S. states, Fran embraced life with a quiet, yet strong will. Her love for the lake, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities brought her immense joy, especially at the farm she adored. Despite being born in the city, Fran seamlessly transitioned to a life filled with nature, embracing country living with grace. Her Catholic faith was a cornerstone of life and strength. Fran’s unwavering love and dedication to her family shone brightly throughout her life’s journey. She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength to her beloved husband of 58 years, Anthony of Kimball; her children, Bruce (Samantha) of Watkins, Paul (Brenda) of Lavergne, Tenn., Sue (Matt) Cro

May 8, 1990 - August 3, 2024 Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley for Travis J. Wendroth, 34, of Eden Valley who died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 3, 2024. Pastor Al Wieling and Pastor Roger Fears will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home of Eden Valley. Travis was born May 8, 1990, in Litchfield to James and Roseann (Wimmer) Wendroth. He lived in the Eden Valley area most all of his life. Travis was a carpenter and also worked as a mechanic. He was a member of Free Grace Recovery Church in St. Cloud where he was active volunteering in the sober community and wherever help was needed. Travis enjoyed the outdoors and was a jack-of-all-trades. He was energetic, helpful, caring, generous and had a big heart. Travis loved spending time with his son, Lucas. Survivors include his parents, James and Roseann of Eden Valley; son, Lucas of Litchfield; sister, Sara Wendroth (Mike Haglund) of Eden Valley; brother, James “Jimbo” (Kim) of Eden Valley; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Obituary and guestbook available online: www. williamsdingmann.com.

Beatrice “Bea” Devereaux, 90, of Litchfield passed away at Lakeside Generations Nursing Home in Dassel on Thursday, August 8, 2024. A funeral service for Bea was held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 2 p.m.