Carolyn Marie Klegin
Age 75
Passed away on May 1st, 2025. Preceded in death by parents, James and Ruth (Cole) Gallagher; and brothers, Jimmy and Patrick. Survived by sister, Mary Ann (Larry) Palodichuk; brother, Tommy (Carla) Gallagher; sister-in-law, Julie Gallagher (Jimmy); daughters Tara (Randy) Klegin-Laska and Trica Bagwill; grandkids, Brennan, Lucas and Tessa Laska and Alyssa, Kayla and Nicholas Bagwill; along with other family members and friends.
Carolyn grew up in South St. Paul and moved to Cottage Grove to raise a family. After moving back to South St. Paul, she continued her gardening talents and won two beautification awards from the city with the help of her dad. Carolyn worked various jobs throughout her life and thoroughly enjoyed being a beautician. She always made sure her girl’s hair was perfect before leaving the house. She also served as a volunteer fire fighter for Cottage Grove. Carolyn loved cabin life on Pokegama Lake in Pine City where she enjoyed the company of her parents across the channel. Most importantly Carolyn enjoyed camping, traveling and spending time with her six grandchildren. She moved to Arizona and spent many wonderful years looking out her window at Superstition Mountain. She was at the very least a medical miracle, surviving a burst brain aneurysm in 2018. Carolyn moved back to South St. Paul, MN in 2022. Overcoming many different health complications, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in January 2025. After a short battle, Carolyn passed away peacefully, with no pain, in her sleep.
Her girls want you to know she was always able to brighten someone’s day. She was hilarious and witty! Every nurse and doctor would comment how funny she was and how they wished all patients were just like her. They would like to thank their Auntie Mary Ann and Auntie Julie for the amazing support they showed Carolyn (and them) right up until the very end. Without either of them, her days would not have been filled with the love and laughter they brought. Thank you to all the family and friends that supported all who were involved in the care and support of those who took care of and loved Carolyn. There were some very hard days since 2018 but the support is what got them through it. When Carolyn was asked what she wanted with her at the end, she said ice water, her wallet and cash. Classic! The care she received over the years was intense. On her behalf, the girls would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Barcelon (PCP), Dr. McHale (ENT) and every single nurse, CNA, staff member, and doctor at Regions Hospital! Carolyn and her daughters are so thankful for the genuine care and compassion they have shown.
No service decisions have been made yet. Carolyn will be laid to rest in Arizona, May 10th, 2025, surrounded by family.
Gregory Alan Bartels
Age 78 of Inver Grove Heights, MN
Passed away on April 29th, 2025.
Greg’s presence is deeply missed by his family including wife, Linda Bartels; Daughter, Alica Bartels; Daughter and Son in Law, Ella & Rhett Burmeister; Grand Children, Jacob, Payton, Lawson, Lila and Breanna. Now reunited with his son preceding him, Luke Bartels; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Greg was a cherished Military Veteran serving in the Marine Corps with two tours in Vietnam. He proudly and graciously attended 50 retreats at Demontriville. We will miss his storytelling, beautiful blue eyes, generous heart and strong will.
Private family service will be held.
Forever in our hearts.
Christian Jeffrey Baago
Age 31 of Eagan, Minnesota.
Passed away on April 23, 2025 in Hopkins, MN. Christian was loved by all who knew him. He loved all sports, and grew up playing any, and every sport he could try. High school varsity soccer, and nordic skiing he treasured, where he met so many of his dear friends. He accomplished the Twin City Marathon, and American Birkebeiner Cross – Country Ski Marathon, 3 times each.
The last 11 years he worked for a Hockey Distribution Company.
Private family service are being held.
He will be missed!
Robert “Bob” Frenger
Age 80 of Inver Grove Heights
Passed peacefully, on April 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Sandy; and his parents, Fredrick and Georgia Frenger; and son-in-law, Howard Barefoot.
Survived by his brother, Fred Frenger (Louise); and sister, Carol Frenger (Rafael); as well as children, Brian, Tammy (James) Sampson, Kimberly, and Todd (Kim); and grandchildren, Michael, Emily (Cole), Arianna (Ethan), Jayden and Tyler. Also survived by brother-in-law, Wayne McKay; also many other family and friends.
Bob loved his dogs, especially “his faithful companion”, Lady, who will miss the home cooked meals, and daily walks with Bob. Bob was born in New York City, and never lost his accent despite moving to Minnesota in 1965 after his Navy service aboard the USS Gyatt. Bob came to St. Paul after a yearlong courtship via letter with his soon to be wife, Sandy, and together they raised four children in South St. Paul, before moving to Inver Grove Heights. After raising their family, Sandy and Bob spent many years as caregivers for special needs children and adults, and were thankful for many wonderful memories, including Sunday morning brunches with Dahni Jo, Chad and others, who were an extended family for Sandy and Bob.
Bob worked 41 years for Northwest Airlines, and in retirement enjoyed fishing with his grandkids, coin collecting, trips up north to Breezy Point, and family cruises in the Caribbean. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Above all Bob cherished his moments with Sandy, whether biking, gardening, visiting the grandkids, or making Sunday morning crepes. Bob took loving care of Sandy in her final months with Alzheimer’s, and now they are reunited for the rest of eternity. Special thanks to the Dr. Lemma, and the entire staff of MN Oncology. Bob will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
Memorial Service 7:30 pm Tuesday, May 6th at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights. Visitation 6:00-7:30 pm prior to the service. Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Memorials preferred to the Down Syndrome Association.
Jerrilynn “Jerri” Eng

Irene Susan (Schmitz) Peterson
November 25th, 1935 ~ April 19th, 2025
From Lindstrom, previously Inver Grove Heights, MN
Irene passed away peacefully at the rightful old age of 89 at Parmly on the Lakes nursing home in Chisago City, MN.
She is survived by her children Terry, Tom (Julie), Tammi, Tim (Therese), Tony (Jen), 11 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, sister Myrtle Schmitz, cousins, in-laws, many nieces and nephews. She was a nurse for 45 years which was her trademark of being the consummate nurturer. Her hobbies included faith, family, dancing, playing cards, baking, making wedding cakes. In her later years, listening to old time music (KDHL radio), watching game shows, playing solitaire and continued her strong faith.
Irene grew up in rural Dundas, MN and attended Bethlehem Academy (class of ’53). After graduating, she attended nursing school at St. Kates. She met Harley and they did a lot of ballroom dancing together. Irene and Harley married in June of ’57 and eventually settled in Inver Grove Heights and raised a family. They resided in IGH for 46 years. In 2008, they moved to a quiet retirement community in Lindstrom, MN.
Irene was preceded in death by husband Harley, her brothers Ken Schmitz & Paul Schmitz and sister Marcella Burke.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am Monday, April 28th, at the Church of St. Patrick, 3535 72nd St., Inver Grove Heights. Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 pm Sunday, April 27th, at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Avenue, Inver Grove Heights. Also 1 hour prior to the Mass at church. A luncheon will follow the service. Interment, Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Thank you to the Parmly care providers during Irene’s stay and especially during her final weeks. Also, a wonderful thank you to St. Croix Hospice for their support during her final days.
Barbara R. Henke
Age 85 of Woodbury, MN
Passed away on April 13, 2025 under hospice care. Preceded in death by the love of her life for 56 years, John Henke and parents Ben and Tena Haney. Survived by her son Brian (Sarah) of Lake Elmo, MN and her daughter Janelle (Fraser) Walsh of Glastonbury, CT. She had four grandchildren, Bennett and Blake Henke and Jaelyn and Trey Walsh. The grandchildren were a constant source of joy and pride from their many accomplishments.
Barb was born in Winona, MN, graduated with the class of 1957 and received a bachelor’s degree in education from Macalester College in St Paul, MN in 1961. Throughout her life she maintained friendships with many of those from school. Barb spent over 30 years impacting the lives of students in South St. Paul schools as a teacher and administrator in both the junior and senior high school. Additionally, she was a founding and active member of Amazing Grace Lutheran Church in Inver Grove Heights, MN. She was an avid reader and word searcher, traveler and game player, especially bridge. Barb was generous with her time volunteering with the homeowner’s associations, school functions, the church and the local library. Possessing a great sense of humor, Barb was always willing to share a laugh, lend a sympathetic ear or deliver a much-needed hug. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00-5:00 pm on Saturday, May 31st at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights.
Memorials preferred to the South St. Paul Education Foundation, Hospice of the Midwest or the Ronald McDonald House – Midwest.
Tia Armstrong
Passed away on April 15, 2025 in Minneapolis, MN surrounded by his loving family.
Private family services were held.
Richard Dean Schneider
Beloved husband, passed away suddenly on April 12, 2025 at the age of 88. He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret (Micki) Schneider, with whom he shared a life full of love, laughter, and countless meaningful memories, each one a testament to their bond and the joy they found in each other.
Born in Wichita, Kansas, to Ollie and Harold Schneider, Richard carried the values of his upbringing with him throughout his life – principles of kindness, integrity and hard work that shaped not only his character but also the way he interacted with everyone he met. He graduated from Edina High School in 1955 and then attended the University of Minnesota on a ROTC scholarship. He proudly served his country as an officer in the U.S. Navy, where he held the role of Purser. Following his service, he pursued a successful career in banking, beginning at Norwest Bank and culminating as the President and owner of Dean Holding Company—a testament to his vision, leadership, and determination.
Richard made his home in Minnetonka, and then Woodbury Minnesota, and spent cherished winters in Indian Wells, California. He was an avid tennis player, loved his family pets and found peace and joy boating on Lake Minnetonka. He had a passion for traveling, and his journeys around the world brought him inspiration and a sense of wonder wherever he went.
Above all, Richard was a true gentleman. He treated those around him with kindness, respect, and quiet grace—especially his beloved Micki, whom he adored with steadfast care and devotion. His gentle nature and unwavering love left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held in Minnesota this summer, with details to be shared at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to your favorite charity in honor of Richard. It was his wish to continue spreading kindness and support to those in need, reflecting the generous spirit with which he lived.
Susan Jean Murr
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Jean Murr, age 73, on April 6, 2025. Susan was born on October 12, 1951, to James and Jean Murr. She was a loving mother, stepmother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Susan is survived by her daughter, Georgina (James), stepsons, Brant and Michael (Jessica) and her 8 grandchildren, Teddy, Paddy, Louie, Blake, Jayssa, Genevieve, Oliver, and George. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy (Frank) and her brother, James (Victoria). She was predeceased by her parents, James and Jean.
Susan was a passionate and adventurous soul. She embraced life fully, enjoying thrilling experiences such as skydiving and sailing. She had a deep affection for the north woods of Minnesota, where she found peace and joy in the quiet surroundings.
Professionally, Susan was a social worker for over 20 years, dedicating her life to helping others with compassion and care. She also proudly carried on her family’s legacy as a third-generation business owner.
Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will always be remembered. Susan had a remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel valued and cherished. Her spirit and presence will be profoundly missed.
A Service to honor Susan’s memory will be held on Friday, May 2nd, at 11:00 a.m. at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m and can be live streamed at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a25042463076537 .In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Neighbors Inc.