Affordable Cremation & Burial - Obituaries

Todd C Olson

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:41:26

Duluth lost a kind soul to cancer and radiation complications on Friday, August 14, 2026 at Essentia St. Mary’s Hospital, Duluth. Todd was born June 15, 1979 at Spooner, WI. His formal education began at Ondossagon School. When the Ondossagon School District closed, Todd transferred to Drummond School District where he graduated high school. He continued his education at UW-Stout in Menomonie, WI; receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation in May 2003. His concentration in Independent Living - was a skill set he would come to rely on as his years passed. Todd found health adversity early, when diagnosed with brain cancer at age 10. The cancer proved life altering as it took away most of his vision, before being stopped by radiation treatments. A Japanese foreign exchange student sent Todd 1000 paper cranes, as a get-well gift — becoming Todd’s inspiration to learn origami. This origami learning process (mostly by feel) became a healing experience for Todd. Origami carried him through many more medical treatments throughout his life. In Todd’s own words: “How do you feel about life as a whole? Do you cherish each and every moment in life? Most people don’t ever think that they could lose it all. Events in my life took my eyesight but opened my eyes and makes me cherish each moment of my life”. Todd viewed his life’s origami journey in this way:

More than a piece of paper,

The Origami Crane is the coming together

Of small folds to create a beautiful end result

A simple act that yields great impact

The same can be said for the act of giving

The end result is powerful

A symbol of hope

A celebration of life

A wish for grace and peace

A chance for dreams to take flight

Hopes to rise

Communities to soar more than ever

Todd posessed the rare talent of bringing out the better side of all he met. Todd’s origami folding, his secret weapon, was the ice breaker which elicited a quick smile. His friends knew this well. Todd pushed beyond friends, focusing on disadvantaged folks, who could gain a much needed boost to a place where hope and a chance for dreams could begin. Duluth, Todd’s adopted home, needs more Todds. Connecting with Todd was a pause to reflect that we can do better; we can be better — it was Todd’s hidden power. A more personal insight into Todd’s story can be found in Blindfold, a short 2020 documentary about Todd, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vssB54GaUKA Todd’s special awards include: American Cancer Society Scholarship Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence The 2003 Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Award The Northeast Entrepreneur Fund CREATE Program Todd’s workplaces include: Camp Courage North; Wisconsin Lion’s Camp for the Blind; Advanced Practicum at The Center for Independent Living for Western Wisconsin; Special Education Aide - Drummond School District. Todd provided volunteer work at: Harbor City School; Lester School; Superior School District; Arrowhead Juvenile Center; UDAC Art Junction; Children’s Oncology Center at St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth. Todd was preceded in death by his grandparents, Esther and Leonard Olson, Frederick Dobbs and a special Aunt Cathy Walz. Todd is survived by his parents Chuck and Cindy Olson, sister Jessica (Matt) Hirsch, niece Kianna Hirsch, and nephew Skyler Hirsch. Todd has many special family members; Uncles, Aunts, Cousins. He has many Duluth friends that loved him, especially his friend Terri Spencer and his cat, Jack. A private family Celebration of Life, will be held at a later date.

William S Thompson

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 20:27:34

William Scott Thompson passed away Sunday, August 2, 2026, in Hospice, after a very long illness. Scott, who most knew him by, was born in Superior, WI, in 1961. He spent 2 years in the Army as a tanker. After the two years he worked at numerous jobs. He was good in sales & worked for a well known music recording company mostly in New York, working with musical groups such as "Bon Jovi". Later on he came back to MN & WI working in construction, eventually starting his own company. He also worked in sales & was a manager at Home Depot before becoming ill. Scott married Corrine Anderson and was blessed with a beautiful baby girl who they named Erica Rae. Corrine passed in 2011. Scott later married again with joy at having 3 step children ages from 1 to 7 years old. Lisa, Matt & Oliver. Scott loved to be in the outdoors and hoped some day to build a cabin to hunt & fish from. Scott is preceeded in death by both grandparents, George & Ruby Ranthum and Edward and Verna Thompson. He is survived by his mother, Judy Thompson, Aunt Dolly Ranthum (Dave); Brother, Rev. Michael Thompson (Dawn); children Erica Thompson, step children: Lisa Robinson (Edmond), Matt Master (Lindsey), Oliver Master (Ashlee); Mike's children, Natalie Thompson and Schneider Thompson, Lisa's son David, Matt's children: Kolton, Jennifer, Marshall and Lorelei. Scott's Memorial Service will be Sat., August 15, 2026 & held at Bethany Community Church, 6700 Grand Ave., Duluth, MN. Judy's quote from Scott: He said, "I know where I'm going. I'll be with God."

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.

Eileen M Erickson

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:09:26

Eileen Mae Erickson passed away July 23^rd. Eileen was born in Sawyer, MN on May 20^th, 1938 to Arne and Mamie Jokinen. Eileen was raised in Sawyer and graduated in 1956 at Carlton high school, married her first husband Ron Langevin and started a family. In 1956 Eileen followed her husband, who was enlisted in the Air Force, to Biloxi Mississippi to start her working career. In the following years the Airforce required Eileen and Ron to relocate to several different states and cities, which included Cheyenne Wyoming where she worked as a bookkeeper at Land Air inc., Urbana Illinois where she worked at an insurance company, Duluth Minnesota where she worked as a payroll supervisor at Target department store. The family moved to Fargo North Dakota where she was a self-employed accordion teacher and at Nodak supply and Crystal Sugar where she worked in accounts receivable, keypuncher, and payroll. In 1976 Eileen moved back to Duluth and worked for Duluth Lumber in accounts receivable and payroll. In 1977 Eileen re-married to Tom Erickson and lived in the Morgan Park neighborhood. In 1984 they moved to a lake home they built near Carlton. She worked for Park Properties, a company they owned as a bookkeeper and accounts receivable. In the mid-eighties Tom and Eileen sold various products at flea markets. This second career for both of them lasted for many years. In 1998 Tom and Eileen became snowbirds and bought a home in Apache Junction Arizona. They lived there in the winters and at the lake home in Carlton in the summers where they were close to family. In 2019 they sold the Arizona home and moved back to Carlton. Eileen enjoyed playing accordion, fishing for crappies at their lake home, working in her garden, cooking, baking cookies, and visiting her family nearby. Eileen was preceded in death by her parents Arne and Mamie Jokinen, husband Tom Erickson, stepson Paul Erickson, son Philip Langevin, son Gene Langevin, brother Lyle Jokinen, and son in-law Vern Rominger. She survived by son Mickey (Cindy) Langevin, step sons Keith (Jeri) Erickson and Mark (Kelly) Erickson, step daughter Linda Rominger, daughter in law Mary Langevin, brothers and sisters, 11 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. There will be a celebration of life for family and friends’ next spring.

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.

Brian P Root

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:05:48

Brian (Bidy) Root, 68, Saginaw, Minnesota - born August 18, 1957 and died July 21, 2026.

Brian was a US Navy Veteran, a fabulous guitar player, a ringer in horseshoes, a pretty good gin player, a diehard Vikings fan and loved the music of John Prine.

He was preceded in death by his parents - Foster “Buster” and Deloris “Swede”, his partner Rachel Smith, his favorite guitar buddy Dave Eliason and his beloved dogs Pearl, Lucy and Sabu. He is survived by siblings Danny (Nancy), Barbie (Kenny) and Anita (Ken), two nephews - Jamie and John, his aunt Betty, numerous cousins, guitar buddies Pat, Mike, Doyle, Randy, Josh, the Aultman’s and many friends.

Brian graduated from Grand Rapids Senior High in 1975. He spent 6 years in the Navy with time spent in South Carolina, Guam and Panama. After returning to Minnesota, he met his partner Rachel (who he affectionately called “Rage”) and they spent many years enjoying their peaceful life together in Saginaw. His favorite days were spent jamming with his buddies, listening to music and watching Vikings football.

Although he would have hated it, a celebration of life with family and friends will be held on Saturday, September 26 from 1-5pm at the Eagles in Grand Rapids.

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.

Patsy A. Pasten (Oehlerking)

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:27:02

Patsy Ann (Oehlerking) Pasten, 79 years young, passed peacefully at home on July 14, 2026. Patsy was born in Mitchell South Dakota on February 14, 1947. Patsy married Larry Cook on October 17, 1964. Patsy led a busy life. She was the bookkeeper for Larry’s logging business. She owned and operated the Corner Bar in Big Falls. She loved bough cutting, hunting and fishing. Later she worked as a waitress and pull tab operator before retiring. Patsy was a wonderful cook and baker with everything made from scratch. Patsy was also known for her ability as a seamstress making cowboy shirts for Larry and clothes for her boys. Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Lloyd Oehlerking, and an infant daughter Karla. She is survived by her long time partner Ed Olson, her 5 boys: Stacy, Colin, Kevin, Scott and Dustin; and her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

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.