Sherry Jakel, 77, of New Prague, formerly Buffalo and Granite Falls, passed away on January 21, 2023, at Mala Strana Assisted Living in New Prague. Sherry Lee Jakel was born in Crookston on December 3, 1945, to Jackson and Shirley (Anderson) Granger.
Darius “Beaner” Zieske of Granite Falls passed away Monday, January 23, 2023, at St. Cloud Hospital at the age of 79. Visitation will be held Friday, February 3, 2023, from 2 - 5 p.m. at Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home in Granite Falls. Darius “Beaner” Gene Zieske was born on June 24, 1943, in Redwood Falls to Calvin and Rose (Bernardy) Zieske. He grew up on a farm near Seaforth and his family moved to rural Granite Falls later in his childhood. Beaner was united in marriage to Ellen Hagen on April 4, 1964, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Granite Falls. They made their home in Granite Falls where Beaner worked for Martin Marietta for over 40 years. Beaner had a great love for the outdoors with hunting and fishing and took pride in teaching his grandchildren his secrets. Over the years Beaner taught snowmobile lessons and even coached summer league softball. He enjoyed going to races at local dirt tracks, going to the casino, playing bingo and going to his campsite in Villard. One special person that has taken care of Beaner is Teri Schlemmer who always made Beaner laugh and smile, especially when she would pick him up for Thursday Night Bingo. Beaner had a great love for his prized 1972 orange Chevy truck, which he took to many car shows and won many awards. What Darius loved the most was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and sharing his passions with them. Beaner was so proud of being able to meet his first great-grandchild and cherished every moment with Bryson. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; daughters, Lisa (Scott) Zweibohmer of Dassel and Marcy Anderson of Rogers; and grandchildren: Tyler (significant other, Stef) and her daughter, Taylor, Austin (significant other, Kelsey) and their son, Bryson, Nicole, and Peyton; brothers: Darrell (Lynnae) Zieske, Perry (Joan) Zieske, and Kevin (Laurie) Zieske; sisters, LeNae
There are countless ways the United Way of Southwest Minnesota (UWSWMN) impacts our communities. The program that has made a difference in my family’s life is the Imagination Library program. My two children, Georgia (6) and Boden (3), have been enjoying the program since they were born. Georgia has graduated from the program; however, she still enjoys seeing Boden’s book come in the mail monthly.
A Royal Summary Before I start, I want to clarify that I have no interest in royals. I do not read about royals in the newspapers or books.
There’s nothing quite as exciting to a nerd like me as the annual Minnesota Newspaper Association Convention. Each year’s convention is an opportunity to take courses throughout the two days that are led by long-time pros in their field. This year, I was only able to stay for one full day, as I had so many things happening all at once, that I would need to miss day two.
The Clarkfield American Legion & Auxiliary will meet at 3 pm on Wed. Feb.
With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching it is important to discuss what healthy and unhealthy relationships look like. Oftentimes, things that may initially be seen as “cute” or “romantic” can lead to unhealthy behaviors in relationships.
The Minnesota Legislature is back in session and moving quickly on a number of initiatives. As usual, we are watching the Legislature’s work very closely to see what the impact of their actions will be on our community. A good part of that effort is with, and through, the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC), of which Granite Falls has been member for about 25 years.
I have always enjoyed receiving Christmas letters and “catching up” with people. Sometimes I learn things about someone that I never knew before.
OF THE WEEK Submitted by Myrna Stölen A note from Myrna: Quick as a mix bar recipe - I used to make these years ago. So simple, just throw everything in a bowl, mix and bake - easy! Lemon Cake Bars 2 cup flour 1 and 1/4 cup sugar 1 package instant lemon pudding 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup shortening 1/4 cup soft butter 1/2 cup currants (if wanted) 3 eggs 1 cup milk Put all in a bowl and beat on medium speed for two minutes.