May 13, 1929 – January 30, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Jonker who peacefully left us at the age of 95 on January 30, 2025. Betty was born in Hull, Iowa on May 13, 1929. Betty lived a full and vibrant life dedicated to her family, her passion for music, and her community. She graduated high school in Bellflower, California in 1946. She then moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, with her parents. Soon after that she attended Calvin College and then also attended Central College in Pella, Iowa. She also taught 5th grade at Roseland Christian School in Chicago, Illinois. During that time, she met Leo and they were married in 1949 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Shortly after that, they moved to Minnesota and made that their home. As a beloved piano instructor, Betty inspired countless students over her many years of teaching, instilling a love for music that resonated throughout her community. In addition to her work as a piano instructor, she dedicated many years to playing organ and piano for her church, where her musical contributions enriched the worship experience and brought joy to the congregation. She played for Grace Christian Reformed Church in Inver Grove Heights for over 25 years. In 1978, she attended the University of Minnesota and received her degree in Piano Performance. She also taught piano, played organ and accompanied the church choir at New Life Church, and New Life Baptist Academy in Woodbury, Minnesota for 20 years. Betty was also involved in various activities, including selling real estate, where she fostered connections among those in her community.

Betty was the proud mother to five children, Loren, (Julie), Leanne, Karen, Kurtis, (JuliAnne), Brad, (Paula), and a cherished grandmother of 15 and great-grandmother of 30. Her family was her greatest joy and she cherished very moment spent with them, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. Betty will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering support, and her infectious love for music. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Throughout her life, she demonstrated an unwavering faith in God, sharing her love for the Lord with everyone around her.  She is now at peace in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Leo James Jonker, and her parents, Peter and Helen Bouma. Also preceded in death by her sister’s Judy and Jackie, granddaughter Laura, and son-in-law Bill.

Funeral service June 28th, 2025 at 1:00 at New Life Church of Woodbury, 6758 Bailey Rd. Woodbury, Minnesota. 55129.

In lieu of flowers— memorials preferred to: New Life Church, with designation to the Betty Jonker Memorial, checks should be payable to New Life Church.

March 31, 1934 ~ February 2, 2025

Arlette ‘Lee’ Eckman, born March 31, 1934, in Bangor, WI, peacefully passed away on February 2, 2025, at the age of 90, at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids.

‘Lee’ was the fourth daughter of Emmett Frank Meyer and Ella Serena Neperud. After her father’s passing when she was only 13, her mother, Ella, worked as a seamstress to support her four daughters, instilling in them a deep sense of strength, resilience, and compassion—values that Lee carried throughout her life. Inspired by her older sister, Donna, Lee pursued a career in nursing, earning her degree from the Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester, MN, before furthering her education at the University of Minnesota. There, she met her first husband and would later move to Inver Grove Heights and raise their 5 children.

Lee enjoyed an impressive and varied career in nursing. She worked in the ER, delivered 32 babies, and served as an industrial nurse at the Post Office and Toro, where she earned her OSHA certification. As she neared retirement, Lee embraced adventure as a cruise ship nurse and doctor’s assistant, later returning to Minnesota to work in home health care. She also spent many summers volunteering as a camp nurse alongside her children and grandchildren.

Lee’s faith was unwavering—she loved the Lord with all her heart and devoted her life to sharing the Gospel. Her enthusiasm for Christ touched the lives of many, leading them to follow Him as she did. For over 16 years, she gave heartfelt sermons at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home and made annual trips to Bible Camp with her sister. They also walked the Holy Lands together. A lifelong traveler, Lee’s love for adventure took her around the world as the beloved “traveling Grandma,” often visiting family by plane, train, bus, or her trusty smart car.

A fiercely independent woman, Lee lived in her Inver Grove Heights home for over 50 years, a place she cherished. Known for her vibrant spirit, Lee was an entertainer at heart—sharing stories, telling jokes, and even performing with puppets. Her creativity knew no bounds—whether crafting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, cross-stitching, painting, or rosemaling, she always had a project in the works. She filled her cherished home with books, tapes, and cassettes, ever eager to learn something new. Lee was also known for her baking, especially her famous “million-dollar” fudge, which she shared generously with loved ones.

Above all, Lee treasured her family. Affectionately called “Grandma Lee” by her 30 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and many more, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love for her family extended beyond bloodlines, as she deeply connected with her church family, her sisters’ families, and her many close friends. She was known for never forgetting birthdays or special events, always arriving with thoughtful gifts—her love language.

She had two happy places in life: her church and the hospital. She spent countless hours there, both as a dedicated nurse and a patient herself, undergoing 39 operations over the years. It is only fitting that she passed away peacefully, with a nurse holding her hand, in the very place she had so often found comfort.

Lee was preceded in death by her parents, Emmett and Ella Meyer, and her three sisters: Virginia Twite, Donna Wussow, and Marlene Lake. She is survived by her children, Debra (Michael) Hansen, James (Rene) Schwartz, Judith (Jeb) Clarin, Thomas Schwartz, and Andrea Gunderman, along with over 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Lee’s legacy of love, laughter, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Funeral Service 11:00AM Saturday, February 15th, at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights, MN. Visitation 10:00AM – 11:00AM prior to the service. 1:00PM Interment at Acacia Park Cemetery, Mendota Heights, MN. Luncheon to follow. 

October 8, 1933 ~ January 30, 2025

Thomas Frank Richardson, born October 8, 1933, in Duluth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, in West St. Paul at the age of 91. He was the son of Frederick Richardson and Sylvia (Hill) Grothe. Tom faced the loss of his father at a very young age and was lovingly raised by his mother in Gilbert, MN, who instilled strength and compassion in her three sons—values he carried throughout his life.

A proud alumnus of Gilbert High School, Tom was a member of the school’s 1951 basketball team that achieved the remarkable feat of winning the state championship his senior year. Cheering from the sidelines was his high school sweetheart, Donna Aho, a spirited basketball cheerleader who would later become his wife and lifelong partner. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in teaching from the University of Minnesota – Duluth, where he laid the groundwork for a life devoted to learning and hard work. Tom dedicated the early years of his career to teaching high school social studies and history, while also coaching baseball and basketball and serving as a driver’s education instructor, sharing his passion for knowledge and shaping the minds of countless students.

Moving his family down to the Twin Cities in 1968, he later transitioned to sales in the cement trade for Sheily Concrete.  He excelled in the industry and rose to become General Manager for the LaFarge Corporation, while continuing to educate and mentor many in the business. A visionary in his field, Tom founded the Minnesota Masonry Institute and the Iowa Masonry Institute in the early 70s. Though he officially retired in the mid-90s, he continued consulting until fully retiring in 2010.

Tom was married to Donna (Aho) Richardson for 69 cherished years until her passing in 2024. He was also preceded in death by their daughter Jill, and his brothers William “Bill” and Patrick “PJ” Richardson.

He is survived by his children: Michael (Sue), Steven, Laurie (Robert) Wing, and Scott (Beth   Anne), nieces and nephews, as well as his many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

A devoted husband, loving father & grandfather, cherished son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend to many, Tom leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and dedication. May his memory bring comfort to all who were lucky enough to know him.

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 am Friday, April 4^th, at Church of St. Patrick, 3535 72^nd St. E., Inver Grove Heights, MN with visitation 1-hour prior at church.  Luncheon to follow.  Private interment.

Age 89

Roger went into the presence of his Heavenly Father on January 28th, 2025.  Preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Barbara; parents Lester and Mildred Jentink, and brother Warren.

Survived by his sons Craig (Kim), Glen, and Jay (Donna); grandchildren Nathanael, Karis, Jack, Jessica, and Jamie; great grandchildren Parker, Noelle, Greyson, and Hollis.

Roger and Barbara were married at Hayden Heights Baptist Church in November of 1957.

After graduating from Harding High School in St. Paul, Roger was a 42-year employee of 3M Company as a technical service specialist.  Roger was also an excellent picture framer and operated a picture framing business out of his home.

Roger was a veteran having served in the Army Reserves.  He did much of his training at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin.

Roger loved barbershop music and sang bass in a quartet with his three sons, as well as being a member of the Celebration Barbershop Chorus in Florida, where Barbara and he were snowbirds for 13 years.  He also sang in the church choir for many years.  Music was a big part of his life.

Roger had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and friends. He especially enjoyed making many trips to one of his favorite places, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

Roger was an avid reader and enjoyed playing tennis, watching Laurel and Hardy films, and playing with dogs.

Roger was a faithful husband, committed father, and a man who loved people.  Most importantly, he loved his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Visitation at Riverview Baptist Church 14 Moreland Ave. E., West St. Paul, MN, on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 9:30 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM.

Age 70 of Inver Grove Heights

Passed away surrounded by loving family on February 5, 2025.

Survived by his Wife of 51 years, Debbie; Daughter, Amy (Rich) McDonald; Son, Jeff; Daughter, Kelly (Brent) Wasieleski; Grandchildren, Asher & Fiona McDonald, Brandon Watson & Rowan Wasieleski; Sister, Linda (Ron) Dawson; Brother, Cedric (Kim) Watson; other relatives & friends.

Let’s gather to honor and remember Wally, a remarkable man whose life was a testament to hard work, selflessness, and unwavering love for his family. As the eldest of three children, Wally took on the mantle of responsibility early in life, dedicating countless years to growing the family business. His tireless efforts not only ensured the success of the business but also served as a living legacy for his children, whom he trained with the same dedication and passion.

Wally was a man of many talents and a generous heart. Over the years, he became a trusted friend to many, always ready to lend a hand with appliance repairs or offer financial support to those in need. His selflessness knew no bounds, and his acts of kindness left an indelible mark on the lives of countless friends and acquaintances.

As a father, Wally was unparalleled. He instilled in his children the values of generosity, wise decision-making, and the importance of family. His guidance and love shaped them into the remarkable individuals they are today. Summers were a special time for Wally and his family, filled with camping, traveling, fishing, and boating adventures that created cherished memories and strengthened their bond.

Wally’s love story with Debbie, his high school sweetheart, is one for the ages. They celebrated 51 wonderful years of marriage, standing by each other’s side as friends, lovers, and business partners. Their enduring love and partnership were an inspiration to all who knew them.

Wally’s legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered as a hardworking business owner, a selfless friend, a devoted father, and a loving husband. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.

Gathering of Family and Friends 3:00 – 5:00 pm on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights. Reception immediately following at Moose Lodge, 5927 Concord Blvd, South St. Paul, MN.

Age 95

Longtime Worthington, Minnesota resident.  Naomi passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025 in Inver Grove Heights.

Naomi was born to Wallace and Helen (Madson) Hutton, on February 4, 1929 in Harmony, MN. She and her siblings lived on a beautiful family farm along the Partridge Creek where the fields, hills and valleys inspired activities such as the ‘Bird and Bridge Club’ in search of the chosen bird of the day or just a day to fish.

Early in her life, Naomi found the joy of music – an accomplished pianist, vocalist, flutist and accompanist in her family’s home, church, school and community activities.

As a graduate of Harmony High School in 1947, she attended St. Olaf College and transferred to Luther College in Decorah, IA, where she remained active in the music program and completed her Bachelor of Arts-Education Degree in 1951. Shared love of music brought Naomi and Glenn K. together. The couple exchanged vows in the Ylvisaker Hall Chapel on the Luther College campus, August 3,1951.

Glenn and Naomi accepted teaching positions in Wadena, Minnesota where they started their family of four. In 1962, Glenn accepted the HS Band Director position in Worthington where Naomi’s love for family, friends, faith and music continued to grow.

Naomi resumed her teaching career and accepted a position in District #518 at Central Elementary School where she helped hundreds of students become better readers and mathematicians. She loved teaching with all the dedicated teachers and staff to promote learning.

Naomi was preceded in death by her husband Glenn, parents Helen and Wallace, along with family members: Peter, Barbara, Patricia, Harvey, Becky, Lyle, Ross, Richard, and grandson Jason.

Survived by Siblings: Donis McCallum, Dan (Arla) Hutton, Robert (Lynn) Hutton; Children Stuart (Young) Evensen, Mark Evensen, Randy (Paula) Evensen, Patti (Jerry) Goettsch; Grandchildren Kelley (Claire) Evensen, Paul Evensen, Matthew (Toni) Evensen, Hans (Merrisa) Evensen, Sam Evensen (Chloe Robinson), Rose Evensen (Denzell Oats), Peter Goettsch and Christian Goettsch; Great-grandchildren River, Soren, Tyrese, Charlotte, Skylar Jean, and Harmony.

Celebration of Naomi Jean Hutton Evensen will be in the spring.

Age 95

Passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025. Born September 16, 1929 in St. Paul, MN, he attended Saint Agnes Grade and High Schools in St. Paul, and the Minneapolis School of Arts.  He served in a US Army anti-aircraft artillery unit from 1951-53 in occupied Germany post WW 2. He retired from the Burlington Northern Railway, and traveled extensively throughout the U. S., Canada, Europe, Asia, Mexico, and Africa. Also of note, was time spent in Hollywood where he assisted in a documentary film for the King of Siam (Thailand); escorted Audrey Hepburn at an Awards Ceremony; and visited with stars of the time like Liz Taylor and Ann Margret.

Preceded in death by his parents, Alphonse and Irene (Labelle) Thill and beloved dog, Puppy. He is survived by his loving brother, Richard (Judy) Thill; nephews, Steve (Deb) Thill, Jeff (Laura) Thill, Brian (Van) Thill; great-niece, Ashley (Joe) Armor; great-nephews, Tyler Thill, Scott Thill; and many wonderful friends. Many thanks to the caring staff at both Inver Glen Senior Living and St. Croix Hospice.

Visitation 11:00 AM – 12:00 Noon Wednesday, February 12^th at Roberts Funeral and Cremation Chapel, 8108 Barbara Avenue, Inver Grove Heights. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Born December 9, 1943 and passed away on February 4, 2025 at Woodlyn Heights in Inver Grove Heights.  Preceded in death by parents, Landon C. Fuller, Donna W. Fuller and brother, Paul Jay Haugen. Survived by brother, Landon (Lynn) Fuller, nephew and nieces.  Private interment.

March 24, 1937 ~ January 30, 2025

Kenneth Joseph McNamara of Rosemount and formerly of Inver Grove Heights passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on March 24, 1937, in South Saint Paul, MN, Ken was the beloved son of Aloysius and Edith McNamara.

Ken shared a beautiful life with his loving wife, Alice Walsh McNamara, whom he married on January 18, 1958. Together, they built a family, raising four children: Randy (Debbie Ludwig) McNamara, Bruce (Joan) McNamara, Tammy (Mark) Greenlee, and Tonya (Craig) Dolezal. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Nick (Sarah) McNamara, Josh McNamara, Matt McNamara, Zach (Madeline) McNamara, Anna (Brian) Kowalzek, Colin (Brittany) Pampuch, Courtney (Shaine) Alexander, Kinsey Greenlee, Grant Greenlee, Cormac Dolezal, Regan Dolezal and Finnegan Dolezal, and was blessed with many great-grandchildren.

Ken proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957 before dedicating 30 years to his businesses, McNamara Carpet Cleaning and McNamara Janitorial Service. His strong work ethic and commitment to serving his community were evident in all that he did.

A true Irishman at heart, he epitomized the merry and the melancholy of Ireland. Always quick with a joke and a hearty laugh, he was also known to tear up at Hallmark movies or any mention of struggle or sadness.  A die-hard Vikings fan, he spent countless Sundays coaching the team from his favorite chair. He made a great Grasshopper, was an infamously poor sport at board games, and had an unmatched ability to make those around him feel deeply loved.

Ken is survived by his loving sisters, Theresa (Herman) Todd, Beverly (Jack) White, Jean (Frank) Stickler, Margaret (Arthur) Roarke, and Donna (Loren) Flynn, Sister-in-Law Jeanne McNamara, along with many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aloysius and Edith, his brother Richard, and his sister Mary (Jim) LeMay.

Ken will be fondly remembered for his kindness, dedication to his family, and unwavering sense of humor. His presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, at the Church of the Assumption (51 7th Street West, St. Paul, MN 55102). Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 13, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Roberts Funeral Home (8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights, MN) and one hour prior to Mass at the church.  A private interment will follow.  Memorials are preferred to the family.