RoseMary (Mechtel) Hartman, at the age of 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Jordan.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with a time of gathering from 9:00 – 10:45 AM, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (313 East Second Street) in Jordan. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Jordan. All donations made in memory of RoseMary will be directed to the Catholic Church.

Rose was born to Leonard and Regina (Theis) Mechtel on July 1, 1938. She was raised on the family farm in Marystown, Minnesota, alongside her seven brothers and sisters. As the youngest, she cherished tagging along with her older sister. Rose attended Marystown Catholic School in Marystown, Minnesota, through the 8th grade. She went on to work on the family farm. Along with helping on the farm, she was introduced to and enjoyed cooking and baking with her sisters.

Rose met the love of her life, Vernon Hartman, at her brother Jan’s raspberry patch in 1955 and married two years later in 1957 at St. Mary’s Church of Purification in Marystown. In 1958, they started their family which grew to six children, Don, Anna, Corinne, Donna, Kevin, and Keith. She held multiple jobs, RedOwl, St. John’s Catholic Church, the US Post Office, cleaning service, a Para at Chaska Schools, and MVEC, all while raising her family, doing day care, and managing to study for and receiving her GED.

Rose’s commitment to our Lord and her dedication to raise her children in the Christian faith, was primary in her life. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were above and beyond the most cherished, and her face would light up whenever she spent time with them.

She had many friends and family members who would stop by to visit, and they would ask for a tour of her flower gardens, which filled her backyard and would be in awe of the beauty of all the different varieties. Rose enjoyed spending time with her friends, playing cards (sheepshead & euchre), having coffee at McDonalds and participating in Women’s Catholic Aid events.

Rose had many passions including gardening, cooking / baking, and of course, spending time with her family.

She is survived by her loving children, Don (Nancy) Hartman, Anna Unger, Corinne Montgomery, Donna (fiancé, Mike Johnson) Hartman-Erickson, Kevin (Tammy) Hartman, Keith (Lynda) Hartman; grandchildren, Rachel (Joel) Myers, Meghann (Nate) Peterson, Lauren (Lucas) Beyer, David (Hannah) Hartman, Erica (fiancé, Rob Lee) Unger, Stephanie Unger, Greg (Mary) Montgomery, Rick Montgomery, Ashley (Josh) Malz, Brian (Courtney) Hartman, Josh Hartman, Jeffrey Hartman; great-grandchildren, Winnik and Emeric Montgomery, Luella Peterson, Aiden Malz, Levi Peterson, Lenora Hartman, Caleb Hartman, Cadance Myers, Addison Malz, Audrey Hartman, Rhema Myers, Leland Beyer, Lawson Beyer, Winona Hartman; sister-in-law, Carol Mechtel; other relatives and friends. 

RoseMary was preceded in death by her husband Vern, her parents, Leonard and Regina Mechtel; siblings, Arvilla (Harlan) Liebhard, Jan (Mary Ann) Mechtel, Richard "Chick" Mechtel, Myron (Beatrice) Mechtel; Joan (Paul) Plekkenpol, Myrtle (Marvin) Williams, and Verena (Dean) Smith. 

Judy (Sirek) Tuma, age 79, of Jordan, MN, passed away on December 22, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 - 6:00 PM on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 1st St W, Jordan, MN 55352. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM with additional visitation time from 10:00 - 11:00 AM on Friday, January 3, 2025 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 2nd St E, Jordan, MN 55352. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Urn bearer will be Rowan Sprecher. Interment Hazelwood Cemetery in Northfield, MN.

Judith Ann, the daughter of Robert and Elsie Sirek, was born on December 17th, 1945. Judy grew up on a farm in rural Webster and graduated from Northfield High School, class of 1963. Judy married James Tuma (she always called him Jimmy) on September 12, 1964. Judy worked different jobs in the clerical field. Judy loved to sew, knit, and crochet until they moved to Jordan, MN. Judy found hand quilting, which was her passion.

Judy is survived by her husband of 60 years, Jim; children, Diane (Mike) LaRoche, Lynda (Keith) Hartman, Daniel Tuma, and Monica (Jerry) Kornder; grandchildren, Stephanie (Andy) Staszewski, Katie and Hannah LaRoche, Josh and Jeff Hartman, Rowan Sprecher, Andy, Robert, and Ben Kornder; great granddaughters, Rory, Abbie, and Ellie; siblings, Ronald (Joan) Sirek and Loran (Rosewitha) Sirek; and other loving family and friends.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Elsie; brother, Gene Sirek; and sister, JoAnn Meinke.

On Friday, December 20, 2024, MaryAnn Elizabeth Klehr passed away peacefully at the age of 76, surrounded by her family. A dedicated and devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, godmother, friend, and most importantly, a child of God!

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 26, 2024, from 4-7 pm, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 West First Street West, Jordan, and on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 10-10:45 am, with a Mass of Christian Burial, at 11 am, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 Second Street East, Jordan. Fr. Neil Bakker will preside. MaryAnn will be laid to rest at St. John Calvary Cemetery.

MaryAnn was born on March 14, 1948, to Joseph and Louise Treml and grew up on a farm near Clements, Minnesota, where she developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for her family.

After graduating from high school, MaryAnn moved to Minneapolis and began working as a corporate secretary. She met her husband, Tom Klehr, at a dance at the Waconia Ballroom. They fell in love and were married two years later, on June 12, 1971.

Together, MaryAnn and Tom built a beautiful life, raising three children, Bruce, Denise, and Chad. She was a devoted stay-at-home mom, who poured her heart into creating a warm and loving home. MaryAnn also served as the bookkeeper for Klehr Construction, the family business her husband and his brother founded, for 23 years.

As her children grew older, MaryAnn began working as a librarian for St. John’s Catholic School and later as a media specialist at Shakopee Junior High, roles that reflected her passion for learning and her commitment to community. MaryAnn also worked for the Jordan Independent newspaper and briefly as a flight attendant, showcasing her versatility and adventurous spirit.

In addition to her career, MaryAnn had many hobbies, including baking, quilting, crocheting, and traveling. She was an active member of her church, St. John the Baptist. MaryAnn’s faith and love for Jesus were cornerstones of her life.

MaryAnn’s family was her greatest treasure. She adored her eight grandchildren and will be remembered for the love and joy she brought to everyone around her.

MaryAnn is survived by her husband of 53 years, Thomas Klehr; children, Bruce (Nicki) Klehr, Denise (Steve) Sachs, and Chad (Susie) Klehr; grandchildren, Kelly, Tristan, Audrey, Shawn, Jake, Adam, Noah, and Madelyn; sister, Elaine (Arlan) Williams; brother, Dennis (Barb) Treml; brother-in-law, Marc Frana; sister-in-law, Janice Treml; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

MaryAnn was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Louise Treml; her in-laws, Mathias and Josephine Klehr; sister, Monica Frana; brother, Ronald Treml; and godson, Monty Frana.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia “Pat” Ann Clayton, a devoted mother, grandmother and cherished friend, who passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024 at the age of 76.

Pat was born on July 24, 1948 in Shakopee, MN to Albert & Lucille Karl, and her life was a testament to love, resilience, and boundless generosity. She married Steve Clayton on June 18, 1966, and together they built a family rooted in warmth and unwavering support.

Pat was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Chris (Rick) Schroers, Stephanie (Duane) Ebert, Dave Clayton, and Dan Clayton; grandchildren, Brittney (Phil) Lafontaine, Emily Clayton, Parker Ebert, Olivia Carroll, Owen Clayton, and Wren Clayton; great-grandchildren, Evelyn and August Lafontaine, Cassian Carroll; sister, Joan (Ray) Busch; and many nieces & nephews. Her loving family now carries forward her legacy of kindness, humor, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. Whether she was baking, gardening or enjoying time at the cabin, Pat brought light and laughter to every room she entered.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Steve Clayton; parents, Albert & Lucille Karl; brother, James Karl.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with a time of gathering from 10-10:50 AM, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (313 East Second Street) in Jordan. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Pat will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to join us in honoring the remarkable life of a woman who loved unconditionally and gave selflessly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Pat, you will be forever missed but never forgotten. Your love and light will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.

Mary Kathryn Johnson of Jordan, passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer October 31, 2024, at the age of 77. Mary was as wonderful woman with a bright personality. She will be missed by her loving family, friends and all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday November 6, 2024 at 11:00 AM with time of gathering prior from 9:15 – 10:45 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic in Jordan. The praying of the Rosary will commence prior, at 9:00 am. A luncheon at the church will immediately start after mass, followed by 2:30 PM burial at Lakewood Cemetery (3600 Hennipen Ave) in Minneapolis. A social gathering, storytelling and pints will take place 5:30 pm Club New Yorker, Green Isle.

 Mary was born on May 8, 1947 in Glencoe, MN to Francis and Kathryn (Bailey) Bigaouette. She attended elementary school in Green Isle and graduated from Arlington-Green Isle High School. She worked at Marquette Bank in Minneapolis, Honeywell, Rosemount Engineering, Quantum Controls and Johnson Trucking. She married the love of her life, Robert Johnson in 1978 and eventually bought a hobby farm in Jordan, MN. Her interest and hobbies included spending time on her treadmill, shopping, carting around grandkids, researching conspiracy theories, and attending mass for all holy days of obligation.

Mary was extremely proud of her Irish heritage, known as the family historian, a Trump Supporter, and devoted Catholic. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Geralyn “Geri” (Kenny) Vanderlinde, Katie Bratz; son-in-law, Jamie Bratz; sister/cousin, Cheryl (Brent Johnson) Fritz; grandchildren, Ryan (Courtney) Vanderlinde, Melanie (Chris) Stifter, Morgan (Mitch Litzau) Vanderlinde, Tyler (Monica) Wasieleski, Carmen Bratz, Addie Bratz, Cody Bratz; great-grandchildren, Jackson and Max Vanderlinde, Evelyn Turbes, Levi and Lucas Stifter, Aurora Wasieleski; siblings, Dennis Bigaouette, Betty Pederson, Sharon (Gary) Lauwagie, Francis (Wendy) Bigaouette, Theresa (Joe) Young, sisters-in-law Beverly Johnson, Joan (John) Berthiaume, Barb (Gene) Mace, Nancy Johnson, Jennifer McLaughlin. Also survived by, Aunt JoDell Battcher, nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends. 

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert Johnson; parents, Francis and Kathryn Bigaouette; parents-in-law, Ellsworth and Lucille Johnson; step-brother, Bob Dahl; niece, Sarah Bigaouette; step-mother, Florence Dahl Bigaouette; brother-in-law, Gene Pedersen; sister-in-law Patrica Bigaouette.

A special to thank you Max Wrase, Mary Norwick, Laureen Picha, Cheryl Fritz, Holly Hanson, AccentCare, Legacy Homecare and many others everyone who in so many ways have remembered and helped us through this difficult time. 

Richard J. Von Bank, age 93, of New Prague, MN and formerly of Jordan, MN, entered eternal life on Sunday, October 27, 2024. 

A time of gathering will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 4-7 pm at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 West First Street, Jordan and on Thursday, October 31, from 10-10:45 am, followed by a Funeral Mass, at 11 am, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 East Second Street, Jordan. 

*Please note that daily Mass and confessions are cancelled, please attend the funeral Mass in lieu of daily Mass.

Joan Theresa Fuhrman, aged 92, of Jordan, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 2, 2024.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11AM on Friday, October 11, 2024 with a Time of Gathering from 9:30-10:45AM prior, all at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 2nd Street East, Jordan. Father Neil Bakker will preside with Father Kevin Clinton concelebrating.

Joan will be laid to rest next to her husband at Spirit Hill Cemetery.

Joan was born November 5, 1931, to Mathias and Anna Kraemer of Parkers Prairie, MN. Joan was a gentle soul whose close relationship with God guided her daily living. Her life was defined by love for all, especially her deep love for her family.

Joan attended Parkers Prairie High School where she graduated salutatorian. She then went on to attend St. Mary’s in Minneapolis where she graduated as a Registered Nurse. Her first assignment was to work at St. Mary’s Hospital in newborn care. As a lover of babies, she often said this was her all-time favorite assignment. Joan then went on to the VA Hospital in Minneapolis where she met the love of her life, Ray Fuhrman, through a mutual nurse friend. They were married in 1955 and had seven children.

Joan and Ray moved their growing family several times because of Ray’s sales occupation. They settled in Jordan, MN, Ray’s hometown, in 1972. Joan continued on as a Registered Nurse at Mala Strana nursing home in New Prague for 19 years. She had an innate ability and amazing energy to juggle the many demands of taking care of her family along with exhausting shifts at the nursing home. She was an active member of St. John’s parish in Jordan for 52 years. There she volunteered in many roles which in later years included the prayer line. Joan was always a prayer warrior for all who needed prayers.

Joan retired at the age of 60 and cherished time with her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joan and Ray spent 24 years as Texas snowbirds and enjoyed time with family and friends who joined them. While in Texas, Joan volunteered as a tutor to teach young immigrant children English. Joan and Ray also enjoyed many summers on Lake Ida where they had a mobile home. They also served Meals on Wheels, through their mid-80’s, to the homebound in the Jordan area.

Her special hugs and kisses, singing of “ditties”, family nicknames and apple-bitties will be forever missed.

Joan is forever remembered by her children, Mark (Jeanne) Fuhrman, Terri (Jim) Grider, Paul (Melissa) Fuhrman, David Fuhrman, Jean (Pete) Busch, Nancy (Kip) Kemper, Florence (Tom) Hansen; grandchildren, John, Angela (Cory), Dan (Cheryl), Rick (Stephanie), Meagan, William, Jacob, Sam, Joan, Stephen, Michael (Alexandra), Noah, Lauren (Brandon), Joe, Ben, Ryan, Grace, and Abbey; great-grandchildren, Hadley, Lucas, Noah, Landon, Mikala, Becca, Caleb, Vincent, Justin, Matthias, Eli, and Emma; and other loving family and friends.

Joan is preceded in death by her husband, Ray; parents Matt and Ann Kraemer; brothers, Ray (Ethel), George (Lois), Ralph (Audrie); sisters, Evelyn Kraemer, Ethel (Tony) Comas, Florence (Luther) Rodvik.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I have some news to share with you.  In consultation with the Saint John’s Parish Pastoral Council and Archbishop Hebda, we will be changing the weekly 5:00 pm Saturday evening anticipatory Mass to be versus populum.  The portable mensa will be used at this Mass.  This will begin on Sunday, December 1, 2024, the first Sunday of Advent.  The 8:00 am and 10:00 am Masses will not change and will remain ad orientem.

As we approach the ineffable Sacred Mysteries that have been handed down to us to be preserved and expressed with great care, we will continue to strive to adhere to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, endeavoring to fulfill the Council Father’s desire that “the use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin rites,” taking steps “so that the faithful may also be able to say or to sing together in Latin those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass which pertain to them.” (Second Vatican Council: Sacrosanctum Concilium 36, 54) Our use of Latin responses has been generally restricted to the Sanctus, Angus Dei, the distribution of Holy Communion, and on rare occasions, the Gloria when the missa de angelis mass setting is taken up on higher Solemnities.  In Ordinary Time since Pentecost this year, the only time you currently hear Latin at the Mass is at the distribution of Communion: the words Corpus Christi.  

We will also continue at all Masses to to hold the Pipe Organ in the highest esteem, “for it is the traditional musical instrument which adds a wonderful splendor to the Church’s ceremonies and powerfully lifts up man’s mind to God and to higher things.” (Second Vatican Council: Sacrosanctum Concilium 120)  The 5:00 pm Saturday evening anticipatory Mass will continue to have fewer chanted/sung parts (such as the Creed and the Our Father prayer).  As has been the practice for the past few years, the 8:00 am will have more chanted/sung parts, and the 10:00 am Mass will be almost entirely chanted/sung.

In addition, at all Masses, kneelers will remain in place at the front of the sanctuary to provide the option for those who wish to kneel to receive Holy Communion.  Be reassured that it is, and always has been an optional practice.  It is in no way obligatory to kneel when receiving Holy Communion, just as it is optional (and not obligatory) to receive communion in the hand rather than on the tongue.

Our collective hope is that we will grow in unity before the Lord Jesus Christ, who draws all things to Himself and desires us to find peace, mercy, and accord as His Body.

In Christ through Mary,

Father Neil

Samuel "Sam" Colling

Samuel "Sam" Colling, aged 71, of Jordan, passed away at his home on September 18, 2024.

A Time of Gathering will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 4-7PM, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 1st St. W, Jordan. A Funeral Mass will be on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 11AM, with a Time of Gathering from 9:30-11AM, all at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 Second Street E, Jordan. Father Neil Bakker Presiding. 

Sam will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery.

Sam was born on August 17, 1953. He was the youngest of nine children born to George and Genevieve. He grew up on the Colling family farm and was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. He graduated in 1971 from Jordan High School where he was involved in choir, class plays, student council, and was school president. After high school Sam attended Mankato State College where he graduated with a major in business and sociology. 

Sam spent his entire career working in the grocery industry, making connections wherever he went. He served as a volunteer firefighter on the Jordan Fire Department for 30 years from 1979-2009 and was Secretary/Treasurer for many of them. In retirement Sam enjoyed helping out at various grocery stores and driving his school bus route. 

Sam seemed to know everyone everywhere he went, in Jordan and beyond, and was a friend to all. His grandkids were his pride and joy and he attended every activity of theirs that he possibly could. Sam’s favorite places to visit were New York City and Lake Edwards. He enjoyed cooking and baking; especially hosting Sunday night dinners for his family. He loved carrying on Colling family traditions, following wrestling and baseball, watching Andy Griffith reruns, and polka music. He was even a local star on KCHK Radio singing his favorite German song, “Schnitzelback”!

Sam will be greatly missed by his wife of 47 years, Sandy; children, Rhianon (Casey), Rebecca, Matthew (Erica); grandchildren, Nikko, Amelia, Theo, Marlo; brothers, Al, George (Kathy), Jim (Cathy), Mike (Sheila), Paul (Donna); sister, Judy; brother-in-law, John; many nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends, and furry friends Lily and Lulah.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Genevieve; brother, Francis (Harriet); sister, Mary; and brother-in-law, Earl.

Judith "Judy" Menke

Judy Menke, age 83, of Jordan, passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 11, 2024. If there is one word to describe Judy, it would be love.

A Time of Gathering will be held from 4-6 PM on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 1st St. W, Jordan. Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM with a Time of Gathering from 10-10:45 AM, on Thursday, September 19, 2024, all at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 Second Street E, Jordan. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Judy will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Jordan. 

Judith Helen was born on August 21, 1941, to Alois and Helen (Malecha) Zelenka in New Prague, MN on a 110-acre family farm southeast of New Prague. She was the second oldest of four children; two sisters and one brother. Her mother unexpectedly passed away in 1962, and she was later blessed to gain a stepmother and stepsiblings after her father remarried.

Judy graduated from New Prague High School in 1959. She met the love of her life, Peter Menke, at a dance at the Park Ballroom. They were united in marriage on June 3, 1961, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague and started their family. Together, they were blessed with five children. Judy very quickly became an astute homemaker and took to baking, canning, cooking, and she always kept the laundry ironed and perfectly folded. She enjoyed various jobs throughout her life such as selling gloves, working in a dental office, housekeeping, and being the favorite lunch lady at an elementary school. However, her main occupation was always caring for her children and her home, and she did an outstanding job. Judy was well loved by everyone who knew her and her grandchildren are her biggest fans of all. Nobody could beat the love Judy provided those around her. She was always smiling and her fun humor was infectious to those who were fortunate enough to know her. 

Judy’s true passion in life was hosting and baking. She loved Christmas and having her entire family over for big gatherings. She always had extravagant holiday dishes ready to share, with rhubarb dessert, apple slices, sugar cookies, nut rolls, Hershey Kiss cookies, and an assortment of pies. Her amazing cooking often led to recipe requests, but the end results were difficult to duplicate since hers often contained an extra secret helping of butter or sugar. Her “healthy” snack she liked to provide was strawberries...with a bowl of sugar to dip them in. Judy’s way of showing her love was with food. Once a family member moved away, it wasn’t uncommon for them to receive a gift package from her with fresh baked treats and goodies. Later in life, Judy was blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she continued to do her best to spoil every one of them. She gave the best gift of all, the gift of time. Judy loved to garden and had a wealth of raspberries, tomatoes, and strawberries to can and put into her baking. She enjoyed being outdoors and always fed the barn cats the scraps that were left from dinner on cold winter days. 

Later in life, Judy and Pete enjoyed life together by traveling. They visited Las Vegas and liked making road trips down to Diamond Joe’s across the Minnesota border with friends. Judy was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles, wordfinders, and was diligent with her crosswords. She enjoyed them all and was known to wear out her dictionaries. Judy was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for over 60 years, and she held deep faith.

Judy was the ultimate caretaker and loved her family more than anything. She will be greatly missed by her children, Jeff (Dina) Menke, Sharon (Terry) Kraling, Steve (Nancy) Menke, and Kevin (Jane) Menke; grandchildren, Derek Menke, Lindsay (Jeff) Sweazey, Mackensie (Gordon) Kappers, Ali Berens, Abby (Jesse) Longley, Miranda (Johnny) Darling, Olivia Menke, Jack Menke, Brian Menke, and Grace Menke; great grandchildren, Lola, Stella, Noa, Addison, Henrik, and Isak; sisters, Jane Malecha, Eileen Glasspoole; step-siblings, Ronnie (Loretta) Tuma and Jeanie O'Neil; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Preceding Judy in death is with her husband, Pete; son, Larry; granddaughter, Audrey Menke; parents, Alois and Helen Zelenka; brother, Ronald Zelenka; brothers-in-law, Donald Malecha and David Glasspoole; and step-brother-in-law, Jerry O'Neil.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 - Rock the Lot Concert

Corner of Broadway & Second Street

Gates open: 6:00pm
Music: 7:30-10:30pm
Admission: Free

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2024 - Festival

Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: 313 2nd. Street E., Jordan MN 55352

Raffles, Pull Tabs, Food, and Beer!

JACKPOT RAFFLE PRIZES - Tickets are $100 each (Sponsored by the Jordan Knights of Columbus Council # 3759)

• Grand Prize - $5,000

• 2nd Prize - $3,000

• 3rd Prize - $2,000

50/50 RAFFLE

• Win half the pot!

• All Day 50/50 Raffle Tickets are $10 each.

• Hourly 50/50 Raffle Tickets will only be available at the festival, $2 each.

MEAT RAFFLE CHOICES

• There will be 3 different meat raffles valued at $100, tickets are $5 each!

• One meat raffle will be valued at $200, tickets are $10 each!

CART OF GOODIES RAFFLE - Tickets are only $2 each!

• Win a wheelbarrow full of Liquor! (must be 21 or older to win)

• Win a cart of Kid Toys and Treats! (must be 18 or older to win)

RAFFLE BOOK PRIZES - Tickets are $3 each - Around $3,000 in prizes!

• $100 (2 prizes) - donated by Elite Metal Works

• $100 (2 prizes) - donated by Kreuser Roofing, Inc.

• $100 Visa Gift Card - donated by Riverland Bank

• $100 MasterCard Gift Card - donated by Frandsen Bank & Trust

• $100 Gas Card - donated by Quatmann Auto

• $100 - donated by Joe & Sons Sheetmetal

• $100 - donated by Lawns Are Us

• $100 - donated by Wagner Funeral Home

• $100 - donated by Weber’s Landscaping, LLC

• Hydration Drip, LMNT Salts, T-Shirt - donated by Advantage Health Center

• $75 Gift Certificates (2 prizes) - donated by Jordan Super Club & Taproom

• $50 Gift Certificates (8 prizes) - donated by Siwek Lumber & Millwork, Inc.

• $50 Visa Gift Cards (3 prizes) - donated by HomeTown Bank

• $50 (2 prizes) - donated by Hennen Electric

• $50 (2 prizes) - donated by Butch and Gloria Mamer

• $50 - donated by Jackie Wolf Hairstylist

• $50 - donated by Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home

• $50 - donated by Dave Kreuser Construction, LLC

• $50 - donated by Jordan Carpet Care

• Gift Basket with Gift Card by The Vinery

• John Deere Merchandise - donated by Kibble Equipment

• Wolf Motors Oil & Filter Changes (5 prizes) - donated by Wolf Motors Ford

• Pet Gift Baskets (2 prizes) - donated by Jordan Veterinary Clinic

• $25 Gift Certificates (2 prizes) - donated by Radermacher’s Fresh Market

• $25 Gift Certificates (2 prizes) - donated by Ridges at Sand Creek

• $25 Gift Certificates (2 prizes) - donated by Linsey’s BBQ & Grill

• $25 (2 prizes) - donated by RES Realty, Duane Hennen

• $20 Gift Certificates (10 prizes) - donated by Jordan Ace Hardware

• $20 (5 prizes)- Donated by Delia’s All In One

• $15 Gift Certificates (3 prizes) - donated by Country Prime Time

• $10 Gift Certificates (5 prizes) - donated by Pekarna Meat Market

• $10 Gift Certificates (2 prizes) - donated by Clancy’s Bar & Pizza Parlor

Dear Saint John's Parish,

When we sat down this spring to plan out the parish and school schedule for the coming school year, we had to incorporate a change in Mass time to best accommodate our learning environment. Children learn best first thing in the morning and we deeply desired to make sure their first hours of the school day were spent in the classroom. For our elementary school-aged kids, this means a lot of reading and writing, and for middle school math. To accommodate this, we are moving our Daily Mass time for the parish & school to 10:00 am each day on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. These changes take effect on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

Please see the new schedule below. We will continue to reevaluate this new schedule as the year goes on and may adjust as needed. If further adjustments are needed, we will certainly let you all know. Thank you for your flexibility!

In Christ,

Father Neil

Pastor

Carol Segler, 82, of Jordan, passed away on July 31st, 2024. 

A Time of Gathering will be held on Monday, August 5th at Ballard Sunder Funeral Homes in Jordan (104 1st St. W) from 4-7pm. The Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 6th at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Jordan (313 2nd Street East) beginning at 11am. Prior to mass, there will be a time for visitation from 10-10:45am. 

Carol will be laid to rest at Saint Michael Catholic Cemetery in Prior Lake. Father Neil Bakker will be presiding over services. 

Carol Kroyer was born the first of three children on April 20, 1942 in New Prague, MN, to parents Raymond and Cleopha “Mootsie” (Klehr) Kroyer. She was baptized and confirmed at Saint Michael Catholic Church in Prior Lake. She completed her education at Prior Lake Public Schools and was a good student who enjoyed studying, especially anything involving numbers. She participated in choir and school plays as well as being a member of the homecoming and prom planning committees. She was friendly and followed the rules which led to her receiving the Citizenship Award her Senior year. She joined a bowling league and was a very good bowler.

After high school, she put her love of numbers to work at Richfield State Bank. During this time, her budding relationship with one of her best friend’s brothers turned into a hot and heavy romance. Harlan and Carol were married on May 22, 1965. The couple was blessed with son, Greg, November 1968 and three years later, their family was complete with the addition of daughter, Julie, in November 1971. Later her grandchildren, Cassie, Mickenzie, and Travis, brought joy and even more joy was found with great grandchildren, Hailee and Aiden.

Putting her career on hold to raise her children and assist with the hobby farm, Carol took great pride in her role as homemaker, keeping an impeccably clean, decorated and organized home inside and out. The lawn, flower beds and large gardens were always weed free and meticulously manicured. She enjoyed canning jams, jellys, tomatoes and pickles. She grew potatoes, onions, carrots, cucumbers, asparagus and dill in her gardens.

With a knack for spotting a deal, being a shrewd negotiator, and clipping her beloved coupons, it will remain a mystery if she ever did pay full price for anything. Her signature recipes were coleslaw, refrigerator pickles, hamburger gravy, potato salad and chocolate chip cookies were always made with love and perfection.

When the kids were a bit older, she worked at Raddison South and Embassy Suites as a banquet waitress and later as a teller for Prior Lake State Bank. 

She was very proud of her Depression Glass and antique collections and her Ford 801 Power master tractor. She could also tell you a bit about every tree in the yard and any bird that feasted at her many bird feeders and spent the night in the bird houses. She spent her downtime curled up with her Harlequin Romance books. 

She and Harlan enjoyed traveling, whether in the motorhome with her parents, Harlan, and the kids, family camping trips with Rook’s and Anderson’s, or various bus trips around the country and cruises. She loved exploring new places, and there is a cupboard full of pictures and postcards to prove it. Among her favorites was the recent “cousin” trip to Arizona.

Besides travel, Harlan and Carol shared many other interests including dancing, playing cards, gambling, garage sales, auctions, flea markets, church festivals, dining out and sharing time with friends and family.

When her dear Harlan passed, February 13, 2022, her life changed quite a bit. She was faced with life without her constant companion. Like any challenge she faced losing her beloved “Hon” head on, but deep down the sadness was lurking. No more greeting cards with his standard “From Your Lover” signature, no more pats on the tushie as she walked through the kitchen and no more sharing a dish at their favorite restaurants.

Carol is survived by her children, Greg Segler (Monica Hron), Julie Segler (Steve Fischer); grandchildren, Cassandra (Matthew Ullom) and Travis Jeurissen; great grandchildren, Hailee and Aidan Ullom; siblings, Ronald (Phyllis) Kroyer and LeRoy (Mary) Kroyer; and many dear friends and family.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Harlan; granddaughter, Mickenzy Segler; parents, Raymond and Mootsie, and daughter-in-law, Debra Segler.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carol Segler, please visit our flower store.

Viola A. Stemig, 98, of Jordan, passed away on July 9, 2024 at the Lutheran Home in Belle Plaine.

A Funeral Mass will be held for Viola on Friday, July 26, 2024 beginning at 11am at Saint John the Baptist Church in Jordan. Prior to Mass, there will be a visitation from 9:30-11am. Viola will be laid to rest at Calvary Catholic Cemetery immediately following the Mass. Father Neil Bakker will be presiding over the services.

Born on November 8, 1925 to parents Paul and Katie (Breeggemann) Klein, Viola started her life on the Klein’s family farm in Chanhassen. She was the middle of three children in the family’s home. She worked hard growing up and learned how important strong faith was, but there was always time for fun. With Lake Susan in her backyard, she enjoyed spending time with her brothers, cousins and close friends.

Viola attended Saint Hubert’s School in Chanhassen and graduated from Chaska High School in 1943. Following high school, Viola worked at Page & Hill, in Shakopee to help support the war effort. One weekend, Viola and her work friend Clare Stemig went to a local dance hall to have some fun. Clare’s brother had recently completed service in the Army Air Corp and was joining them for the night. As soon as Viola saw him, she wanted to get to know him. His name was Florenz and little did she know, they would be starting their life together. The pair were married on October 21, 1947. They were blessed with 5 children. They lived on the Stemig family farm near Saint Joe. Viola helped on the farm with the animals and her large garden. Her main priority was caring for the family. Her special talents were making bread, cookies and homemade pies. Viola and Florenz spent many hours visiting relatives on Sundays and playing cards, especially Sheepshead with the “Big Six”.

The family went on vacations in northern Minnesota. They enjoyed fishing and swimming at the resort. When the children were grown and gone, Florenz and Viola traveled all over the US, from walking on flowing glaciers in Alaska to the southern tip of Texas.

Viola lived her life with a strong religious faith. She felt praying the rosary was important. Viola was very active in the community through her volunteer work at Saint Joseph Church which was near the farm. The big event in the early years was a chicken dinner festival. Later she worked at banquet events in the kitchen of Saint John’s Catholic Church in Jordan. She volunteered making quilts with her friends at Saint John’s Church. For many years, Viola did volunteer work at the C.A.P. Agency of Scott County.

Viola will be missed by her children, Tom (Lorie), Steve (Linda), Joyce, Pete (Jane), and Dave (Cherie); 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; Sisters and Brother-in-Laws; Betty Klein, Kathy Stemig, Elwin Stemig and many other nieces, nephews, family and friends. Viola is proceeded in death by her loving husband, Florenz; parents, Paul and Katie Klein; Granddaughter Jennifer, and brothers, Edward (Aggie) Klein and Lawrence Klein. In-Laws Patti Stemig, Ralph Stemig, Walter & Clare Kuechle, and Mal & Lucille Hogan.

The Stemig Family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff at the Belle Plaine Lutheran Home!

Catherine L. Bendzick, age 97, of Jordan, MN, passed away, with her loving family surrounding her, on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Oak Terrace Senior Living, in Jordan.

Born on a farm near Marystown, MN, on March 17, 1927, Catherine Loretta was the youngest of 10 children of Mathias and Margaret (Menden) Sand. Throughout childhood, she helped her parents by milking cows and doing other chores on the family farm. Catherine also learned the craft of cooking, baking, and canning from her mother and sisters. She attended Saint Mary of the Purification Catholic School through the Eighth Grade.

As a teenager, Catherine loved to attend local dances with friends and her sisters, where in the Spring of 1943 she met the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Henry Bendzick. They courted while Jerry served in the Army, where he was stationed in Tokyo, Japan for several years. Catherine thought the day would never come that he would be discharged, but soon after he came home to her, Catherine and Jerry married on October 28, 1947. They settled on a farm north of Jordan adjacent to the Bendzick family farm where they raised six children, Dave, Gary, Paul, Pete, Pat, and Mary. However, they felt the sadness of losing their infant son John.

In 1976, Catherine and Jerry sold the farm and built a house on 10 acres of the farm property, where they lived until moving into Jordan and taking over Henry Bendzick’s bait business. In 1987, Catherine and Jerry fulfilled their lifelong dream of living on the lake and moved to Lake Volney near Le Center, MN where they enjoyed fishing, and became active with the Le Center community and church. After many years enjoying lake life, the two moved to the Plaza in Le Center, where Catherine and Jerry were the caretakers, before moving back to Jordan to Oak Terrace Assisted Living in 2011.

For Catherine, the best times were spent with family and friends playing countless games of Poker, Euchre, Phase 10, and shaking dice, especially with the “Card Group”, and she was never easy on you. The “Steak Fry” nights at the American Legion in Le Center were enjoyed monthly with family and friends. Catherine was an excellent cook and baker, and there was nothing better than the smell of her freshly baked bread, pies, cookies, and cinnamon rolls when you walked in the door. She was also famous for her canned dill pickles, pears, and cherries. Catherine enjoyed gardening, flowers, fishing, playing bingo, putting puzzles together, watching “Wheel of Fortune”, and doing word finds.

Faith being one of the most important things in Catherine’s life, she always put others before herself. She attended Sunday Mass, volunteered for the funeral lunch committee and church thrift store, delivered communion to the sick and elderly, and was known as the “Prayer Warrior” to family, friends, and residents at Oak Terrace. If someone needed prayers, it was Catherine they went to, and she would immediately begin to pray her rosary. She also assisted with weekly communion services at Oak Terrace. Even in Catherine’s final days, her lips were praying the words of the rosary as her loved ones surrounded her in prayer.

Forever loved, Catherine will be missed by her children, Dave (Norma) Bendzick, Gary (Lane) Bendzick, Pete (Cathy) Bendzick, Pat Bendzick, Mary (Paul) Johnson; grandchildren, Tim (Susie) Bendzick, Jennifer Johnson, Andrew Bendzick, Kate Bendzick, Molly Bendzick, Natalie (Jordan) O’Hotto, Dan Bendzick, , Matt (Samantha) Bendzick, Alex (Cortnie) Bendzick, Jeremy Johnson, Jacob (Rebecca) Johnson; 13 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Catherine is proceeded in death by her loving husband, Jerry; infant son, John; son, Paul; parents; siblings, Marie (Alphons) Stocker, Herb (Lucille) Sand, Clara (Louis) Engel, Theresa (Howard) Heller, Jerome (Bernice) Sand, Caroline (Clarence) Lenzmeier, Alvin Sand, Rita (Earl) Peters, and Joseph (Grace) Sand.

A special thank you to Oak Terrace Senior Living and Saint Croix Hospice for their excellent care, love, support, and kindness shown to Catherine and the Bendzick family. Thank you also to Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation who proudly served and cared for the Bendzick family.

A time of gathering will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, from 4-7 pm, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 West First Street, Jordan, with an additional gathering on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 10-10:45 am, with a Funeral Mass at 11 am, at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church, 313 East Second Street, Jordan. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Catherine will be laid to rest at Saint John Calvary Cemetery. The urn bearers will be her children, Pete, Pat and Mary.

Monday, July 15, 2024
Ridges at Sand Creek, Jordan
21775 Ridges Drive
Jordan, MN
952-492-2644

– A Truly Remarkable Golf Course & Experience –

Experience the beautiful winding Sand Creek, natural wetlands, rolling terrain, elevated tees, undulating greens, and numerous strategically-placed bunkers as you play on Midwest Owners Association “2010 Golf Course of the Year.”

https://www.ridgesatsandcreek.com/

Check-in
12:00pm (Noon)
Shotgun Start
1:00pm
Dinner
5:00pm
Ball Drop
6:00pm
Proceeds go to Saint John the Baptist Catholic School in Jordan.
A portion of your cost is tax deductible.

DINNER
Hamburgers and Brats fresh from the grill with all the fixins and sides.

ONSITE GAMES & EVENTS

Ball-Drop
$10 per ticket with a chance to win $1,000

Hole-in-One
Win a brand-new Wolf Motors Ford Vehicle!

On Course Contests
Closest to the Pin
Longest Putt
Longest Drive
And many more...

Cash Prizes for..
First Place Team
Second Place Team
And many more...

REGISTRATION DUE BY JULY 8, 2024.

Age 89, of Minneapolis, passed away April 15, 2024. Survived by wife, Mary (Stapenhorst) Javurek, children: Ann Javurek, Linda Javurek, Teresa Javurek (m. Benjamin Swift), John Javurek, Karen Javurek, and grandchildren: Katherine Javurek Myers, Jesse Dresselhaus, Nicole Johnson, Lilli Johnson, Lucy Javurek. Funeral Mass will be at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Jordan, MN on April 26 at 11 AM with private burial to follow. The family would like to thank Donald's medical providers and caregivers including, Dr. Karla Rosenman, Dr. Charles Stephens and the VA Medical Facility, Kenwood Assisted Living Facility, and Grace Hospice.

Agnes “Aggie” Pass, age 86, of Jordan, MN, passed away at her home surrounded by family on April 20, 2024. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM with visitation time from 9:00 – 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (313 2nd St. E) in Jordan, MN. Father Neil Bakker will preside. Aggie will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Agnes Louise was born on May 18, 1937 to Thomas and Florence (Buesgens) McGovern in Shakopee, MN. Aggie and her sister, Gerrie, grew up in town. They enjoyed playing and being outside and had a great childhood together. Aggie was involved in musicals and plays in high school and graduated from Shakopee High School as her class Salutatorian. Out of high school, she got a job at a local dental office and worked as a receptionist there for some time before taking a job with Guardian Angels in Chaska, where she worked 22 years from 1977 until 1999 as a school secretary.

In 1956, Aggie met William Pass at a dance at Spring Lake Park, shortly after he was honorably discharged from his service in 1956. Although she was initially wary of “service men”, she agreed to go out with him. Two years later, Aggie and William were married on May 17, 1958 at the Church of St. Mary in Shakopee. Together, they started a family and were blessed with six children. Aggie always made sure her kids visited for holidays, Christmas and the 4th of July in particular. Everyone always looked forward to her famous potato salad for the holidays! She kept up with all of the family birthdays and made sure everyone got their card in the mail, and even in her later years, she stayed organized and clean, making her bed every single day. Later in life, Aggie loved being a grandma and great-grandma.

Aggie was faithful and dedicated to the church and was very involved throughout her years. She was a choir member at St. Benedict and helped out in various other capacities wherever she attended. She was also a member of the “Red Hot” Red Hats Society. Aggie loved being outside gardening and feeding the birds. She was also a huge fan of the Minnesota Twins, Timberwolves, and Gopher basketball.

Aggie loved to laugh and giggle and will always be remembered for her great sense of humor.

Aggie is survived by her children, Terry Pass, Amy (Jim) Stepanek, Denise Pass, Peter (Kris) Pass, Scott (Terri) Pass, Lori (Shawn) Ryan; grandchildren, Tricia Pass, William Pass, Emily (Tim) Gleeson, Steven (Grace) Pass, Margaret Pass, Joseph Pass, Carson Pass, Mitch Pass, Carter Pass, Patrick Ryan, and Greta Ryan; great grandchildren, Dominic, Eleanor, and Isaac Gleeson, and Wilson Pass; and other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, William Pass; granddaughter, Mollie Ryan; parents; sister, Gerrie (Andy) Heiland; and daughter-in-law, Wanda Pass.

John F. Betchwars, age 75, of Jordan, MN passed away on February 17, 2024. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at Saint John the Baptist Church, 313 2nd St. E, Jordan, MN. Father Neil Bakker will preside. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:30 – 11AM at church prior to Mass. John will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Jordan.

John was born in Minneapolis on December 9, 1948 to parents Henry “Luke” and Luverne Betchwars, who lived in Hopkins at the time. Shortly after his brother Steve was born, the family moved to Jordan, back to where Luke and Luverne began their life’s journey. He attended both parochial and public schools in Jordan, playing football in high school.

After high school, he attended Winona State College for a year. Shortly thereafter, John purchased the Gold Spot Dairy in 1968, becoming one of the youngest business owners in Jordan at the time. Operating it with the help of his mother Luverne, the dairy store also served as a convenience store, offering limited grocery items along with a selection of dairy products. The Gold Spot also provided a place where kids, young and old, could drop their allowances on sodas, candy, and snacks, play pinball or a game of pool. It was during this same time that John became a volunteer member of the Jordan Fire Department. Having sold the store in 1977, he worked for a number of businesses, including Jordan Beverage as a delivery driver.

But his next stop would prove to be his passion, as he worked on the grounds crew at Hazeltine National Golf Course in Chaska. He was proud of his years at Hazeltine, including his involvement with the 1991 U.S. Open. Opportunity knocked in 1993 when he was hired as Superintendent for Creeks Bend Golf Course in New Prague. It was here where he helped the owners build the course, nurturing all 18 holes from start to finish. The man loved grass and he was proud of what had been accomplished. John retired in 2013.

John loved the game of golf and playing golf. He played countless rounds at a number of courses, none bigger than his rounds on the Monterey Peninsula including Pebble Beach. Another love of John’s was his 1969 Ford Grand Torino. Jet black with its gold c-stripes, many would agree that this car was indeed the love of his life. John also enjoyed traveling and camping. He, along with his brother Steve, traveled throughout the U.S. in his fifth wheel camper, along with campgrounds throughout Minnesota. Another interest of John’s was model railroading, in particular O-scale trains which Lionel made famous. He even went so far as to have a model railcar produced advertising Jordan Old Style Brew Beer. John was always a fan of the game of baseball, growing up a Yankees fan and later becoming a die-hard Cubs fan. But he truly enjoyed his days watching the Jordan Brewers town team play throughout his life.