Affordable Cremation & Burial - Obituaries

Cindy L Koch

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 11:40:47

Cindy Lee Koch, 69, of Superior, WI, died on July 23, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family, after a courageous but completely unfair battle with liver cancer.

She was born on January 18, 1957, to Raymond "Jack" and Betty (Jinkins) Koch in Fort Wayne, Indiana, but spent the majority of her life in the Twin Ports area. She found her greatest joy and purpose in being a mother to her two children and, later, becoming a grandmother. Cindy also took her role as a pet owner very seriously and loved her four-legged "children" as if she had birthed them herself. Friends and family joked that she was Snow White and had a superpower for attracting nearly any animal.

Cindy is survived by her partner, Tyrone Lloyd; son, Nathaniel (Katherine) Koch; daughter, Akela Lloyd; grandchildren, Carson, Anna, and Benjamin; sister, Paula "Kim" Scott; brothers, Raymond "Allen" Koch and Robert "David" (Jean) Koch; several beloved nieces and nephews; and many friends. She also leaves behind her dear cat, Precious.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Timothy Koch; and her very special grand-dog, Lily. Cindy was a firm believer that all dogs go to heaven, and we know their reunion is full of happy squeals, contagious laughter, and plenty of cuddles.

A small celebration of Cindy's life may be held at a later date.

Cindy was big-hearted and advocated for those who could not speak for themselves. To honor her generous spirit, memorials to PJ's Rescue, Animal Allies, or the Douglas County Humane Society are preferred in lieu of flowers.

The family would like to thank Cindy's RN, Brandon, and the rest of her care team from Essentia Health's hospice program for not only their medical care but also the compassion they showed throughout this difficult time.

Bruce R. Backen

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:57:46

Bruce Richard Backen Passed away peacefully on July 22 2026 at the Bendictine Health Center. He sailed the Great Lakes on an Ore Boat at 17, and the Oceans on a Naval Ship. He Loved the outdoors, wildlife, motorcycles, his best friends, the love of his life Annie, his pets, all pets, and his brothers Dan Backen and Bud Backen , His sisters Jean Hanson, Susan Bourgoyne, his sister in-law Cindy Backen, brother-in-laws Will Hanson and Mike Bourgoyne and his friend Kathy J. Brantner. He is also loved and survived by and many nieces and two nephews. He was a blessing to many more. He took care of his neighbors, family and friends and he will forever be missed and cherish in all of our hearts.

Timothy L Hart

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:33:57

Timothy Lyle Hart born on July 12, 1951 in Cloquet, MN to Lyle and Nina Hart. He passed away unexpectedly just a few short days after his 75^th birthday in July of 2026. Tim was raised in Wright, MN and spent his time farming, haying and helping out whomever needed help. He enjoyed playing sports, in high school he played basketball and football.

Tim graduated from Cromwell High School in 1969. He married the love of his life Gail Wilson on November 13, 1971 and they moved to Gowan where they raised their three sons Jason, Derek and Luke.

After graduation Tim worked at the Wright Creamery, then after a brief stint of working at Conwed (USG), he took a job with Burlington Northern Railroad (date) until he retired in July 2011. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for the city of Floodwood for 25 years.

Tim enjoyed spending time with his wife of 50 years, especially in the summers doing tug of war events, where he was seldom seen without his signature cowboy hat. He also enjoyed hunting, ice fishing, and watching his boys play sports, rarely missing a game. He ran the score clock for Floodwood football and volleyball games, which also allowed him to watch his grandkids play sports. Tim could also be found out at the local golf course, almost any day of the week.

Tim was proceeded in death by his wife Gail, brother Wes and parents Lyle and Nina.

He is survived by his sons Jason (Carrie), Derek (Teresa) and Luke (Marsha) and grandchildren Josie, Kylie, Logan, Wesley, Brynn, Anthony and Kaleb. Sisters Vicky Addision, Wanda (Danny) Karppinen and Pam (Bob) Rahja.

A celebration of life will be held Friday August 7th from 2:00-5:30pm at the Event Center in Floodwood.

Please send all flowers the day of the celebration to the Event Center 201 W 7^th Ave Floodwood, MN 55736.

Richard D. Carlson

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:46:22

Richard Douglas Carlson, 74, was born on October 16, 1951 and passed away on July 18, 2026. We are thankful that he is now pain free and at peace with his savior. Richard attended technical school in Duluth and spent his career as an electrician with IW Local 242 for many years. He will be remembered for his kindness, caring, sense of humor, fun loving disposition, and the love of his children, grandchildren, siblings, and his favorite kitty Ninja. He loved watching the MN Twins, MN Wild games, and other sports as well as old western shows and movies. He was a proud Veteran and served four years with U.S. Air Force packing parachutes in Germany where many men thanked him for saving their lives. Rich will live in our hearts forever, and we carry many memories with us. Rich is preceded in death by his parents Milton and Margaret Carlson, and niece Lauri Stroot. He is survived by his daughters Julie Brun (Derek), Elizabeth Williams (Justin) Granddaughters, Calista and Briella Williams, Siblings Robert Carlson (Linda), Roger Carlson (Eileen), Janet Doherty, Carol Gaskill, Peggy Billings (Mike), James Carlson (Sandy), and Susan Quam (David), many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family wishes to thank Aftenro Nursing Home and Hospice Care for their support and care provided to Rich during this difficult time. Special thanks to our sister Peg for her years of continuous love and support with Rich's health and well being.

Craig Iverson

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:48:46

Craig "Arne" Arnold Iverson, 72, passed away on July 12, 2026 at Solvay Hospice House in Duluth, MN. Born on August 18, 1953 to Clifford and Bonnie (Boman) Iverson. He graduated from Denfeld High School (Class of '72) and worked throughout the Duluth area; the past 26 years at Dey Distributing. Arne was a proud west-ender and the beloved brother to Clifford, Chris, and Cheryl. He treasured his family and was the devoted "Uncle Arne" to his nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He could be counted on for help, advice, a good laugh and a reality check whenever one was needed. He was a lover of all animals and had many dogs throughout the years that brought him joy. Arne had many close friends and family that shared hunting shack weekends, BWCA canoe adventures, family gatherings, cabin time, company picnics, and countless visits over bottomless cups of coffee. Arne was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Bonnie and his nephew Jason Iverson. He is survived by his three siblings, Clifford (Nancy), Chris (Theresa), and Cheryl (Paul) Poppenberg; nieces Kristina, Amelia (Brandon) , Hilja (Shawn), Cassie, Amanda, Kaja (Derek), and nephew Andrew; his great nieces and nephews Kaleb, Kyle and Kennedy; Alex, Lucas and Gabriel; Clayton, Hattie and Boman; Riley; Micah and Iven; and Bella. The family is grateful to the staff at Solvay Hospice House for their compassionate care of Arne. Memorials can be directed to the Animal Allies Humane Society or Solvay Hospice House. A gathering to celebrate Arne's life will be held on August 18, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Proctor Moose Lodge

Kelly J Heffern

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:19:53

Kelly Heffern, 62 of Duluth, passed away Thursday July 9, 2026 with her husband by her side after a 19 month battle with ALS. She was born in Duluth, MN on March 14, 1964 to Myrna and James McGinty. She grew up with sisters Rene and Wendy, and graduated from Morgan Park High School in 1982. Kelly made a career of helping others through work in the hospitality industry and most recently in guest services at Essentia Health. She loved bragging about her kids and grandkids, spending time with family and friends at the campground, regular visits to see her sister in Florida, and caring for her pets and any critters she came in contact with. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, positivity, strength, and selfless love. Kelly is survived by her husband, John Heffern, children Daniel (Allie) Klaas, McKenzie (Kara Warren) Klaas, grandchildren Sophia, Sebastian, and Rylee, sister Rene (Tim) Raymond, nephew Joel (Nikki) Raymond, nieces Gina (Eric) Holmes and Kara (Jenni) Raymond, beloved pets Angel and K.C., and numerous extended family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents Myrna and James, and sister Wendy Mitchell. Kelly and her family would like to thank Bayliegh, Lindsey, and the entire team that helped with her care as her disease progressed. Your patient, dignified, and compassionate care is greatly appreciated. Kelly’s family asks that memorials in Kelly’s name be directed to Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth or The ALS Association. A celebration of life may take place at a later date

Richard Lee Hoch

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:33:15

Richard (Rick) Hoch, 73, passed away July 4, 2026 at his home. Rick’s favorite place was his cottage in Solon Springs, WI on Lake St.Croix. There he loved to fish, boat, garden and visit with friends around the campfire in the summer and in the winter there was ice fishing and snowmobiling. Rick was an accomplished trap shooter, who received numerous awards. He also enjoyed flying remote controlled planes, golfing and playing cards with family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Rita Hoch, stepfather, Thomas Dunleavy, brothers Bob, Dana and Jim. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon of 25 years, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and good friends. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral service at Cathedral of Christ the King, Superior, WI.

Keith R Carter

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:31:25

Keith Raymond Carter Keith Raymond Carter, age 74, passed away in his home on July 3, 2026, leaving behind his wife Susie, twin brother Kenneth (Patti), 23 nieces and nephews, 46 great nieces and nephews, and 20 great-great nieces and nephews, and too many friends to count. A tribute to the man that could fix anything. Keith grew up in Morgan Park with his three siblings. Raised to work hard and respect others. He landed a job at Barko Hydraulics at the age of 18, and stayed there for 30 years, running the burning machine and cutting steel parts to build logging equipment. He was always striving to find a better way to do things to save the company money. In 2001, he started his own business at home in the shop he had built, doing the same things, but now as his own boss. For seventeen years we worked side by side, making it a big success. We were known for getting it done in a pinch. One job stands out as an example to his dedication. A machine shop needed a part for a breakdown on the Hoover Dam. They contacted Keith and we were able to work late to get the job done and were able to get it delivered early the next morning. He was always proud of the fact that one of his parts is part of the Hoover Dam. We call him the metal man, because he could build and fix anything. He had an incredible talent for designing and fixing things that no one thought was possible. He didn't know the term "can't be done", he would just scoff and say hold my beer. I would sit back and watch the magic. It was awesome! Keith had a gruff exterior and could really piss people off, mostly because he was usually right. But inside he was a big teddy bear with a kind heart. If you were lucky emough to be in his circle, you know what I mean. Having no kids of our own by choice, it did not stop him from getting involved with several young kids/teens. He mentored them and showed them they could do anything they set their mind to. Be confident and don't take crap from anyone, don't be afraid to try new things, and that there is no such thing as failure, its just a learning experience. You know who you are and you need to know he was so very proud of each and every one of you for the strong successful adults you have become. Know that he loved you like you were his own flesh and blood and was so happy to be part of your lives. Keith will be missed by family and friends, too many to list, but he touched a lot of lives. Mostly he will be missed by me. 48 years together and we were quite the team. From working side by side building our home, landscaping, fencing, cutting trees, more landscaping, it never ended, but it was fun working together. And again when we were running the business, working long hours to make it successful. And it was all worth it, because we had eight years of retirement together, and oh the fun we had. One adventure after another, traveling in our motor home from park to park.Riding our e-bikes, sitting around the fire and watching the sun go down. Making friends along the way and just enjoying life. I will miss our time in the evening, when the day was done, sitting on our deck overlooking the pond, chatting about what our next adventure would be. And the one liners! I will so miss his dry sense of humor. He would get a mischievous look and his blue eyes would twinkle, and boom, he would fire off something totally unexpected and I would laugh all day each time I thought about it. He made me a better person, confident and strong. I will be okay because of him, but will truly miss our life together. Keith has seen his last sunset, but I will continue to see him in each new sunset until the day I die. Per his request there will be no service, a promise I made and will keep. So gather with friends and tell stories, and just remember the good times you have had with your friend. Forever in my heart and never forgotten.

Joseph C Witte

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:44:53

Joseph Charles Witte (“Joe” or “Chuck”) Joseph Charles Witte, affectionately known as “Joe” or “Chuck,” passed away peacefully with his family by his side on June 28, 2026, at the age of 92. Joe graduated from St. Jean’s Catholic High School in 1953, where he developed a lifelong love of sports and excelled in basketball. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956 as a survey specialist with Battalion Battery C, spending much of his service in Europe. After returning home, Joe attended Duluth Business University before beginning a 19-year career with the DM&IR Railroad. During this time, he met the love of his life, Carol Suech. Together they recently celebrated 67 wonderful years of marriage. In 1972, Joe founded Joe Witte Sanitation Service. Through hard work and dedication, he built and operated the business until retiring in 1990 at the age of 56. Joe treasured spending time with family, friends, and neighbors at their summer home on Eagle Lake in Cromwell. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins. Above all, Joe was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith, which guided him throughout his life. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his children, Chris (Lynn), Todd (Beth), and Kirk (Tammy); his grandchildren, Derek, Chantalle (Mike Palke), Tyler (Maryssa), Emily, Alec, and Colton; and his great-grandchildren, Kaden, Bristol, Lilly, Lainey, and Everleigh. A visitation will be held at St. James Church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. A luncheon will follow the service at St. James. Joe will be remembered for his strong work ethic, unwavering faith, love for his family, and the many friendships he cherished throughout his life. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and generosity will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Ruth A Madson

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:16:42

In Loving Memory of Ruth “Ruthie” Adaline Madson (Krakora) January 31, 1935 – June 26, 2026

Ruth “Ruthie” Adaline Madson (Krakora), 91, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026. Born in Cromwell, Minnesota, on January 31, 1935, to Joseph and Esther (Richard) Krakora, Ruthie was a woman of strong faith, a joyful heart, and an unmatched love for her family. Most importantly in her life, she loved the Lord. Ruthie was deeply passionate about her Christianity, which stood firmly as the number one thing in her life. Her profound relationship with God was evident to all who knew her; she accumulated a cherished collection of many Bibles and lived a life rooted in constant prayer. Whether she was praying out loud, writing her prayers down on paper, or speaking quietly to herself, her devotion was an unceasing source of comfort and strength.

Ruthie was happiest in the great outdoors and thoroughly embraced country life. Her absolute favorite job of all time was working on a roofing crew because it allowed her to do what she loved most—work outside. In her younger years, she brought that same high energy to ice skating and skiing. She also filled her days with singing, reading, solving crossword puzzles, and listening to country music. Her love for nature extended to all animals and wildlife, and she found great joy in keeping the local wildlife well-fed. While she loved all creatures, dogs always held the number one spot in her heart. Indoors, Ruthie was a formidable opponent at the game table. She loved board games and cards, and her family will always laugh remembering how she played a mean game of Demon.

Above all, Ruthie loved her family deeply. She was an amazing mom and a truly wonderful grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother to a massive, loving family spanning five generations. Ruthie was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Joseph and Esther; her siblings, Bonnie Retzer, Richard Krakora, and Albert Krakora; and her beloved son, Jody Miller.

Her beautiful legacy lives on through her surviving children: daughter Michelle Madson, and sons David Madson and Robert Miller. She is also deeply missed by her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who loved her dearly.

Our family is incredibly grateful to Essentia Hospice. Thank you for your wonderful care, your guidance, and for always being by our side when we needed you most. To honor Ruthie's independent spirit and personal wishes, no formal services will be held.

Harold “Butch” C. Nordin

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 14:39:49

Harold “Butch” Carl Nordin, 80, of Duluth, died on June 23, 2026, from heart complications, surrounded by his children. He spent his life giving his heart to others, and in the end, it was his heart that guided him home. Born on June 14, 1946, in Hibbing, Minnesota, Harold grew up in a close-knit neighborhood filled with friends, laughter, and the love of his parents, Mary and Carl Harold. In 1972, Harold enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam era. After returning home, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and later his master’s degree from the College of St. Scholastica. In 1979, he began his career at Minnesota Power, where he worked as a computer analyst for more than 25 years until he retired. Known for his reliability and integrity, he rarely missed a day of school or work. Harold married the love of his life, Patricia Ann (Horkey) Nordin, and together they shared 41 years of marriage filled with devotion, humor, and adventure. They raised their family in Duluth, spending countless days camping, picking blueberries, birdwatching, and exploring the Boundary Waters. A lifelong outdoorsman, Harold was endlessly curious and in awe of the natural world. He was a Master Naturalist, served on the Audubon Society board for over twenty years, and volunteered with Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Hawk Ridge, Hartley Nature Center, and many other conservation groups. He cared for every creature he encountered, from injured birds to the many beloved dogs he adopted. He was an avid birdwatcher. His family likes to think that every time you see or hear a special bird, that’ll be Harold. Harold was known for his warm humor and jolly laugh, telling jokes to friends, neighbors, and even nurses on his final day. He was gentle, loyal, hardworking, and kind. He cared for his chronically ill wife with unwavering devotion, helped neighbors without expecting anything in return, and adored his grandson, Stone. He had countless friends and a gift for building community by checking in, staying connected, and making everyone feel welcome. His friendships were deep, long?lasting, and woven into every chapter of his life. His church family at Kenwood Lutheran was an important part of his life, and he volunteered there often. He is survived by his son Greg Nordin; his daughter Kim Nordin (Zach Schul), his grandson Stone Schul, and his dog, Yuki. He is preceded in death by his wife Patricia; his parents, Mary and Carl Harold; his sister Marylee; and his beloved dogs Red, Norman, Graham, Trixie, Ripley, and Hondo. Those who knew Harold will remember his humor, his gentleness, his intelligence, and his deep respect for the natural world. His legacy lives on in the forests and lakes he loved, the people he cared for, his humor and positivity, and the countless quiet acts of kindness he offered throughout his life. A celebration of his life will be held at Kenwood Lutheran Church on August 4, from 1–4. Wearing something with a bird or plant is encouraged as a tribute to Harold’s deep love of nature and the creatures he spent his life protecting. In keeping with his simple, generous spirit, no flowers or donations are requested.

Elaine K Pohto

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:34:55

Elaine Karen Pohto, 81, passed on from this earth peacefully to the afterlife at Golden Horizons of Sandstone on June 18, 2026. Elaine was born to Esther Laila Ojanen and Einar Oiva Pohto on July 12, 1944 in Cook Minnesota. Survived by her two sons Zachary James Vincent Ziesing and Isaiah Thomas Vincent Ziesing and two grand children Isaiah Thomas Vincent Ziesing II and Sophie Ann Ziesing. Elaine grew up in the sticks of the Northwoods on the Iron Range with her two brothers Davy and Jimmy Pohto along with many Finnish relatives and being one of forty two cousins. Later to join the U.S. Navy also attending the Minnesota State University of Moorhead and graduating from St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing to become a lifelong registered nurse. She reached high levels in her many years of a nursing career, in intensive care and neuroscience achieving many awards and mentoring. She was a highly respected preceptor of novice students and peers among her field. In many cases, outstanding beyond doctorate knowledge because of her long time experience. She was quite achieved and regarded so. During her time at Windham Hospital in Connecticut and Saint Mary’s Hospital in Duluth Minnesota. She was a fully fledged member of the United Steelworkers Union as well. An avid reader, she digested multiple books at a time with a particular love of nature and the universe, still being a learned student. She enjoyed golf, bowling, travel, a plethora of classes and adventures throughout her life. Along with her early husband and father of children living in Key West Florida, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. And then late husband throughout Connecticut and New England until returning to her midwestern roots of Minnesota and Wisconsin. She was a beloved nurturing mother to her sons and grandchildren, as well as many members of her family and friends. A matriarch, she will be remembered greatly upon all she’s touched throughout her years of life.