To, Peter Pitou

In Loving Memory of Peter Pitou To

May 15, 1953 ~ April 10, 2023

Peter Pitou To transitioned peacefully and surrounded by loved ones at 8:25 am, Monday the 10th of April 2023 at his home in Eagan, Minnesota at the age of 69.

Pitou was preceded in death by both of his parents Phan To, and Chom Toun. Pitou is survived by Sopheap To (sister) and Sina To (brother), his 3 children Angel To (Jackson, Nori), Zachari To (Charlie), and Sarina To (Tiana, Zachari). He is also survived by many other close family members and loved ones including: Melina To, Theng Ku and family, Danny Ung, Sokhannara Ung, Leo Ung, Sarin and Phally Yos, Savann Sath, Patricia To, Aleena To, Angie Thithavong, Sunnary Chum and the Kong Family.

Pitou’s family wishes to express our most sincere gratitude and appreciation for the many prayers, well wishes, and acts of kindness shown during Peter’s journey in illness and final days of transition.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family of Pitou are preferred.

Visitation will be at Roberts Funeral Home in Inver Grove Heights (8108 Barbara Ave E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077, United States) on Sunday the 16th of April 2023 from 12-5 pm. Monks Ceremony will be held on Monday at 10 am at Roberts Funeral Home, followed by the burial service at Pleasant View Memorial Gardens (400 MN-13 S. Burnsville, MN 55337 United States).

Repast to follow both visitation as well as burial at Melina To’s house: 4906 Rusten Rd. Eagan, MN 55122.

Pallbearers

Zach To

Sina To

Jackson Morris

Danny Ung

Leo Ung

Andrew Ung

Cedric Ung

Savann Sath

Aaron Robinson

Riebhoff, John A.

Age 85 of Inver Grove Heights

John passed away peacefully at his home on April 8^that the age of 85. He was preceded in death by his son, Dennis; parents, John and Agnes Riebhoff, and two sisters, Janet Riebhoff and Judith Doll (Michael).

He is survived by his wife, Margie; daughter, Joanne Ohana (Moshe); grandchildren, Mario Borgerding (Anna) and Holly Balabanick (John); great-grandchildren, Joey, Charlize, Brady, and Miles; Sisters, Darlene Carlisle (Curt), Dianne “Buffy” Mobroten (Rich), and Rosemary Chavez (Frankie); many nieces and nephews; and his BEST friend, Kevin Boehmer.

John loved gardening, the outdoors and sunshine. He enjoyed collecting, playing cards, and visiting with friends over a cup of coffee. He will be dearly missed.

Friends and family are invited to gather on Saturday, April 22^nd, at 1:00 for the Internment at Prairie Oaks Memorial Eco Garden, located at 8225 Argenta Trail, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077.

Franzwa, Melvin Anthony

Age 91 of Inver Grove Heights

Passed from this life and into the loving hands of our Lord on April 6, 2023. He is survived by 8 children: Pam (Don) Blomquist, Laura (Peter) Colton, Jackie (Doug) Moe, Linda (Bill) Schoettle, Amy (Rob) Larsen, Richard Franzwa, Ken (Angela) Franzwa, and David (Jenny) Franzwa. He also leaves behind 20 grandchildren, his brother Gene, and many friends — especially those from St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Inver Grove Heights and the Inver Glen Senior Community, where he’s lived since 2017.

Mel was born on Valentine’s Day, 1932 in St. Paul. He graduated from St. Agnes High School and then served his country in the Korean War as a Sergeant First Class in the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division.

Following his military service, Mel attended the University of St. Thomas where he majored in chemistry. He then began a rewarding 34-year career at Economics Laboratories (EL) where he started as a chemist, worked in new product development, supported the sales team, and retired as Director of Marketing.

He met Audrey Hoople in December of 1959 at EL’s company Christmas party, where she worked as a secretary and typist. They were married on October 1, 1960. Together, they bought a house in Inver Grove Heights and raised their children. They were lifelong members of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Community where Mel served on the parish council and helped establish Neighbors, Inc. in 1972, a food shelf serving Dakota County. Mel continued to support Neighbors, Inc. throughout his career and retirement, volunteering with them for more than 40 years.

Mel loved music, especially patriotic tunes and polkas. He learned to play the accordion as a young man and often played at family gatherings where he also showcased his famous “Mel’s Chili.”

Mel will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and his loving caregivers at Inver Glen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Inver Grove Heights on Saturday, April 15 at noon with a visitation one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow. The family will then have a private burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Neighbors, Inc. or St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Lethert, David “Dave”

Age 89 of Inver Grove Heights

Passed away surrounded by family on April 7, 2023. Preceded in death by Margaret, his loving wife of 50 years. Survived by children, Patrick (Jennifer), William (Robyn), Mary “Molly”, Laurie (Tony) Kocanda; grandchildren, Caitriona, Cadence, Teige, Margaret, Sean & Wesley, many nieces, nephews and friends.

Dave was an avid fisherman, hunter, hobbyist and entrepreneur. He enjoyed his evening Manhattan and a good game of cribbage. He will be greatly missed.

Mass of Christian Burial 11am Thursday, April 13 at the Church of St. Peter, 1405 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota. Visitation 4-7pm Wednesday, April 12 at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights, also 1 hour prior to Mass at church. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials preferred to St. Thomas Academy/Lethert Family Scholarship Fund.

Kettles, Patricia Lynn “Patty”

Age 49 of Vadnais Heights

Of Vadnais Heights, MN passed away at the age of 49 on March 28, 2023 at United Hospital. She was preceded in death by father, William Rooney; sister, Nancy Rooney; father-in-law, William and brother-in-law, William Kettles III. Patty is survived by loving husband, Blake; mother, Lucy Rooney; sister, Cheryl (Greg Stoffel) Bonderson; brothers, Bob (Bernie), Brian (Betsy Day), and Mike (Teresa) Rooney; mother-in-law, Patricia L. Kettles, sister-in-law, Barbara Bates; and many nieces and nephews.

Patty was born on May 4, 1973 in St. Paul, MN. She graduated from Henry Sibley HS, University of Minnesota and also earned her MBA from St. Thomas University. She was a Director at Baker Tilly. She enjoyed traveling, golfing and spending time with her family, friends and coworkers. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Services at Church of St. Joseph, 1154 Seminole, W. St. Paul, on Friday, April 21. Visitation 11 AM – noon with Mass at 12 noon. Luncheon to follow. Private burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Animal Humane Society.

Larson, Joan A. (née McCluskey)

Age 91 of Inver Grove Heights

Joan was born on May 14,1931 to Earl L. McCluskey and Marion A. (Neal) McCluskey. She passed away April 4, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Joan grew up in St. Paul with her younger brother, Neal, graduated from Central High School and attended Macalister College. She met her husband Donald Larson at a college mixer and they were married May 18, 1951. They settled in Inver Grove Heights, MN where they raised their eight children. Joan was a loving wife and mom. She was a devoted Christian, was a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout Den mother known to the neighborhood as “Den Mother Joan” and she was loved by all who knew her. She was also a member of PEO for over 70 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, her daughters Diane Michels and Kristen Larson as well as her parents and brother, Neal. Joan is survived by and will be missed by her children: Debbie Niolu (Tony), Barbara Kight (Wes), Thomas, (aka Sharkey) Larson (Melissa), Karen Close (Dan), Bill Larson (Shannon) Dave Larson (Kelly). Also surviving her are 14 grandchildren and four great grandchildren along with six nieces and many great nieces and nephews

Memorial Service 11:00 am Monday, April 24^th, at First Presbyterian Church, 535 20^th Ave. N, South St. Paul. Visitation 9-11 am prior to the service. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

McDonald, Elaine Shirley (Brevik)

Age 87 of Rosemount

Passed away peacefully at home in Rosemount, MN at the age of 87.

Elaine is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, John, her parents and her sister.

Elaine is survived by her 12 children Steve, Diane, Chris, Dan, Bridget, Theresa, Jeanette, Irene, Martha, Kevin, Matt and Andy and their extended families. Fifty grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Elaine is also survived by her brother, Ron Brevik, and sister, Ginger Ziesmer.

Elaine was born on December 5, 1935 in Minneapolis, MN to Wilbur and Virginia Brevik. She married her high school sweetheart, John McDonald in July of 1955. She graduated from Minneapolis General Hospital School of Nursing in 1957.

Her loved ones remember her for her love of family, friends, neighbors and everyone she met. She loved to sew, knit and crochet.

Visitation 4-7 pm Monday, April 10 at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights. Mass of the Christian Burial 11:00am Tuesday, April 11 at St. Thomas Becket, 4455 So. Robert Trail, Eagan.

King, Diana Lee

Age 82

Passed away March 31^st in Inver Grove Heights, MN. Born in Elgin, IL in 1940 to Benjamin & Helen King. Diana graduated from Elgin High School in 1958 & Augustana College, Rock Island, IL in Medical Technology in 1962. She worked at Abbott and St. Joseph Hospitals in the Twin Cities. Diana is preceded in death by her parents and survived by her sister, Judith King Sorton (Alex) and brother, James King (Sherry).

Celebration of Life 11:00 am Thursday, April 27^th, at Augustana Lutheran Church, 1400 Robert St. S., West St. Paul. Visitation 10-11 am prior to the service. Luncheon to follow service at church. Interment at a later date in Illinois.

Bevins, Grace Delores (Roberts)

Grace Delores (Roberts) Bevins passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 19, 2023. She was born May 21, 1927, in St. Paul, MN as the third child of William Nicolo and Julia Frances (Pinelli) Roberts, Grace was the only girl of eight after the passing of infant sister.

Growing up in the Frog town area with her 6 brothers she attended St. Agnes School where she was involved in Choir, Drum Core, Newspaper, Basketball, and many other activities. During her Junior year in high school, Grace was voted Homecoming Queen. Following her graduation in 1945, Grace began her career in the field of business.

In 1962, she married Robert William Bevins. From this union, Grace brought three children to the marriage, Robert brought four children to the marriage, and together they had two sons. With her family, she moved from the St. Paul area to Oakdale. In 1972, she then moved to Mahtomedi where she and Robert developed Bevins Lane on 10 acres they purchased in 1965.

Grace enjoyed gardening, bowling, softball, playing cards with friends and family such as Rummy 500, canasta, and poker, gin, and many others. She loved to travel when she could. She was a Cub Scout den mother for a couple of years. Over the years she loved hosting parties at home or at events.

After Bob’s death in 1980, she remained in Mahtomedi for another 43 years spending the last 21 years as a resident of Briar Cliff Manor where it seemed to be the right fit for her. Besides being involved in many activities and committees, she developed many friendships which she cherished throughout her years there. During this time, she occasionally traveled with her sister-in-law, Bernice Roberts. She was an active member at St. Jude Church where she organized their card club as well as other activities.

Grace was preceded in death by one sister; Marianne Roberts who died in infancy, 1937. Parents: William Nicolo and Julia Frances Roberts; husband: Robert William Bevins; five brothers: William Michael, Bernard Joseph, Richard Francis, Anthony Kenneth, and Joseph Raymond Roberts.

Grace is survived by children; David Anger, Diane, Darlene Anger, William (Joni Marty) Bevins, Joseph (Karen) Bevins. Stepchildren: Jean Peterson (Gary), Robert (Jan) Bevins, Wanda Pederson, and James (Cheryl) Bevins. One brother; Thomas Ambrose (Betty) Roberts. Sisters-in-laws: Eileen (Barthel) Roberts, Lisa (Montecalvo) Roberts, Annette (Johnson) Roberts, Donna (Bevins) Eklund, and Doris (Bevins) Mercier. Fourteen grandchildren and step-grandchildren: Melissa (Robin Reed) Bevins, Joella (David) Brown, Mitchell Bevins, Mackenzie Bevins, Brandon (Dani) Bevins, Austin Bevins, Tony (Linda) Peterson, Mike (Stacey) Peterson, Tammy (Terry) Cuhel, Jeff Bevins, Adam (Tina) Bevins, Eric Pederson, Jamey (Stacey) Bevins, Nessa Bevins; twenty great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

October of 2022, she moved back into the family home which was designed by and built for her by her husband and family. This move allowed her to spend her final months in familiar surroundings. We have many memories of Grace; she will be greatly missed.

Visitation 4-7 pm Friday, April 14th, at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights. Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 am Saturday, April 15th, at St. Jude of the Lake, 700 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi, MN, With visitation 10:30-11:30 am prior to Mass. Private interment Ft. Snelling National Cemetery held at a later date. Memorials preferred to St. Jude of the Lake Church or St Jude’s Children’s Research.

Trucker, James Lyle

Age 87 of Inver Grove Heights, MN

Passed away on March 26, 2023.

Preceded in death by the mother of his children, Margaret Watson; parents, Lyle and Gladys Trucker. Survived by his 3 children, Robert Michael Trucker, Janet Marie Trucker-Miawotoe (Felix), and Daniel James Trucker (Penny); grandchildren, Alyssa Miawotoe, Margaret and Owen Trucker, Brady and Hayley Binnebose; sister, Donna (Trucker) Vasiliades (Demetri); niece, Anne Vasiliades-Endres (Scott and daughter Codie); nephew, Michael Vasiliades (Melissa and son Easton) and many other nieces and nephews on Margaret’s side of the family.

im was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Lyle and Gladys Trucker on September 3rd, 1935. He graduated from Southwest High School in 1953. Jim attended the University of Minnesota and graduated from Dunwoody Technical Institute in 1960.

James married Margaret Watson on July 25th, 1959, in Minneapolis, Minnesota and had three children, Robert, Janet and Daniel. Jim worked as an estimator and project manager for Axel Omen Concrete and Masonry after his studies at Dunwoody. He moved on and eventually worked for Sheehy Construction Company where he worked his way up from estimator/project manager to Vice President of Operations. He managed projects all over the country including the construction of the Federal Court House in Des Moines, IA and the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas, NV. In 1975, after 15 years working at Sheehy, Jim and Cy Sheehy formed the partnership of a new business venture, Trucker Sheehy Constructors, Inc. Trucker Sheehy was a very successful general contracting and real estate development firm and was at one time, considered one of the fastest growing firms of it’s type in Minnesota. There were offices in Minneapolis, MN, Denver, CO and Des Moines, IA and at its height, Trucker Sheehy employed over 600 office staff and trades people. Jim took tremendous pride in his business and his employees. In fact, Trucker Sheehy was the launching pad for a number of employees who eventually went on to own and operate their own successful General Contracting and Subcontracting firms in Minnesota. Jim took particular pride in the personal attention he paid to both clients and employees’ development. At its pinnacle, Jim personally reviewed and signed every employee’s paycheck, by hand, each week.

Jim served in the Air Force from 1953 to 1957 and was a veteran of the Korean War. He was stationed in Plattsburg, NY. and served as the Staff Sargent and a member of the ground crew on the B-47, Nuclear Bomber.

One of Jim’s greatest interests and joys included aviation where he earned his private pilots license in 1991. He enjoyed many solo flights and terrified his children on a few small group flights. From an early age, Jim took a great interest in travel, spending a summer in his late teens in Uppsala Sweden. In a student exchange program with his dear friend Bengt Mattsson, James worked on their family farm and enjoyed an amazing experience. The prior year, Bengt had visited Jim and his family in Minnesota for a summer to experience the American way of life. In later years, Jim and Bengt along with their wives and significant others continued their relationship with reciprocating visits with each other. He served as an early officer for MIDA, the Minnesota Industrial Development Association. But Jim took greatest pride in his family, and grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Margaret Watson and his parents, Lyle and Gladys Trucker.

James is survived by his 3 children, Robert Michael Trucker, Janet Marie Trucker-Miawotoe (Felix), and Daniel James Trucker (Penny), grandchildren, Alyssa Miawotoe, Margaret and Owen Trucker, Brady and Hayley Binnebose, his sister Donna (Trucker) Vasiliades (Demetri), niece Anne Vasiliades-Endres (Scott and daughter Codie) and nephew Michael Vasiliades (Melissa and son Easton) and many other loving nieces and nephews on Margaret’s side of the family.

Pallbearers will be Robert Trucker, Daniel Trucker, Darrell Dansvy, Felix Miawote, and David McGowan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Twin Cities PBS 172 East 4th Street St. Paul, MN 55101.

The Trucker Family wishes to extend our sincerest thanks and gratitude to all those who cared for our father over the years, especially those in the last months of his life.

Jim had a very special friend, Joan Madison, who we all grew to love and respect. Joanie and Jim enjoyed many years of close friendship together. Whether it was dancing together in the kitchen, traveling to Sweden and around the States or just going out for dinner, they truly enjoyed each other for many years! I am very grateful to Joanie for all she did to take such wonderful care of our father and can never show her enough how much we love her and appreciate her.

The Trucker Family wishes to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to all those who cared for our father over the years, especially those in the last months of his life. We would especially like to thank Dad’s companion and dear friend, Joan Madison for her ongoing love and care she gave Jim. For more details about Jim and his life, please visit Robert Trucker’s Facebook page!

Visitation (meet and greet) will be held at 9:00am on Friday, March 31, 2023, at The Church of the Assumption, 51 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10am led by Father Paul Treacy. The burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Twin Cities PBS 172 East 4^th Street St. Paul, MN 55101.