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Rande Lee Nelson, beloved husband, father, son, and grandfather, passed away on January 15, 2024 at the age of 64 at his home in Albert Lea, MN. With heavy hearts, we reflect on the life of a man whose love, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and community touched the lives of many.
Born on September 5, 1959 to Melvin and Darlene (Hassing) Nelson, in Albert Lea, MN, Rande was raised in the Clarks Grove area. He attended Clarks Grove school and later graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1977. Even during his high school years, Rande displayed his passion for automobiles, taking automotive classes and working at Penney's in the automotive department. After graduating, he eagerly entered the workforce, working at the COOP in New Richland and Clarks Grove and also as a maintenance supervisor at Bridon. Eventually, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit and became the proud owner of his own Car Sales shop and Construction business. Rande's true passion lay in construction, and he would often be seen donning his signature brown jersey gloves and gathering drill bits in his pockets.
On May 10, 1980, Rande married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Jamie Jepson. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three wonderful children, Tina, Rachel, and Marc. Family was always Rande's top priority, and he went above and beyond to ensure their happiness and well-being. His selflessness was unmatched, always ready and willing to lend a helping hand, without even needing to be asked. Whether it was fixing cars, providing his carpentry expertise, or simply being there for his loved ones, Rande was a pillar of support and strength.
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MARJORIE LOU GORES, age 94 of Golden Valley, formerly of New Richland, died on Friday, January 12, 2024 at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale.
Born on March 4, 1929 in Waseca, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Frank and Ruth (Nelson) Swenson. Marjorie graduated from New Richland High School in 1946 and Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter. She was united in marriage to James J. Gores on June 25, 1955 at Vista Covenant Church in rural New Richland. Following their marriage, they moved to California where Marjorie taught English for a short time and was partner with her husband in the California Tank and Steel Co. Following her husband’s death in 1975, Marjorie returned to Minnesota. In her later years, Marjorie and her sister Virginnia created “The Vista Sisters” and sold homemade jams, jellies and baked goods to reach the community and support mission groups. They supported a specific group each summer for 15 years.
Marjorie had previously attended Christ Community Church in Waseca and was a former member of the Choral Society in Fresno, CA. She was a lifetime member of the Waseca Historical Society, Waseca Arts Council, ASI, and the U.S. Amateur Athletic Organization. Marjorie enjoyed reading, crafts, watercolors, and music, having directed choir at church for 35 years.
She is survived by her sister, Virginnia Swenson of Golden Valley and sister-in-law Loretta Gores of Security, CO; and many nieces and nephews. Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents and husband, James Gores.
No public services will be held. Burial will be in the White Deer Cemetery in White Deer, Texas.
Living for the Lord has been the most important thing in her life. Memorials may be directed to Bibles for the World.
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Jane Leigh Wagner gained her wings on December 31, 2023 with her loving family by her side at St Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. Heaven just got a little windier when the hurricane blew in.
Mama Jane, Hurricane Jane, or Mama Wags, no matter what you called her she was sure to be your friend through thick and thin and support you with no judgement. Jane lived life BIG, loved hard, and cared tremendously for those she surrounded herself with.
Born on September 18, 1966, in Albert Lea, MN, Jane was the daughter of John and Shirley (Trytten) Somage. She grew up in the tight-knit Hartland community, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished memories. Jane graduated from New Richland Hartland-High School, a place where her sparkling personality and vivacious spirit shone brightly. She spent her life caring for those around her and often saying “It’s just what I do.”; her caring heart for those around her was evident in everything that she did.
Jane found true love in Darren Wagner, and together they embarked on a beautiful journey of love and companionship, marrying on May 16, 1987 at Cross of Glory Church in Hartland, MN. Their union was blessed with five wonderful children, who were the center of her universe. Jane’s only aspiration in life was to be a mom and she protected her children like a mama bear with cubs. She created a warm and welcoming home, where the doors were always open and hearts were filled with laughter and love. Her children's friends were like extended family, and Jane's nurturing spirit embraced them all. Jane delighted in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones; whether it was a simple family dinner or a big gathering, no one left her table hungry. Jane's renowned homemade pizza was always a sought-after treat in the Wagner household and a delight for all who tasted it.
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Richard George Hankerson, age 87, Mesquite, NV, passed away unexpectedly on November 24, 2023 in Mesquite.
Richard was born to Dr. Robert and Mabel Hankerson on November 18, 1936 in Minnesota Lake, MN. He graduated from Minnesota Lake High School and the University of Minnesota School of Agriculture. He married Eileen Mericle, and three sons were born to this union. They raised their family in rural Waldorf, where he was a crop, hog, and sod farmer. Motorcycle racing was a family pastime. In 1975 they moved to New Richland and raised cattle. He was always fascinated with computers, having one of the first home computers, a Commodore Pet. In the late 80s, he left farming and started his own computer business in Albert Lea, selling and servicing software programs he designed. Later in life, he retired to New Bern, NC; Hill City, SD; and Mesquite, NV, to do the things he really enjoyed: golf, 4-wheeling, sailing, and tennis. His wishes were to have his ashes spread in the Black Hills of South Dakota which he loved so much.
Richard is survived by his partner Marie Moline; sons Doug (Sarah) Hankerson of Wells, MN, Darrel (Cindy) Hankerson of Auburn, AL, and Danny (Lynette) Hankerson of Black Hawk, SD; 3 grandchildren Brett (Sabrina) Hankerson, Jay (Sara) Hankerson, and Heidi (Tommy) Bindel; and two great-grandchildren Liam & Patricia Bindel; former wife Eileen Hankerson of Wells; nephews Kurt & Eric Frank; cousins and friends.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents and sister Alice (Jim) Frank.
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Winston Burnett Evenson, a loving father, grandfather, and proud member of his community, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving daughters, on December 22, 2023 at the New Richland Care Center. Born on June 28, 1927 in New Richland, Winston was the son of Arthur and Alice (Sunde) Evenson.
After graduating from New Richland High School in 1945, Winston answered the call of duty and joined the United States Army on September 5, 1946. Serving his country with honor and dedication, he was honorably discharged on January 22, 1948.
In June of 1951, Winston married the love of his life, Lorraine Wenzel, and together they built a beautiful life in New Richland. They were blessed with two daughters, Mary and LeAnn, who brought them immense joy and pride. He and Lorraine enjoyed their time together and with friends, spending time dancing at many different venues in the area.