Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes

04/08/2026

Albino Almanza Aguirre

Albino Almanza Aguirre, age 91, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the Cedars of Austin. Albino was born on December 16, 1934, in Guanajuato, Mexico, to Alfonso Almanza and Aurelia Almanza de Aguirre. Albino lived in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, and Laredo, Texas, for many years before setting his family roots in Minnesota. Albino was united in marriage to Rosa Irma Camacho de Almanza in St. James, Minnesota. Albino was a man of many trades primarily working in the farming and agriculture industries. Albino enjoyed watching various sports, including boxing, baseball, and football. He loved playing softball for most of his adult life. Albino also loved running, which he enjoyed well into his 80’s. Albino instilled a love for sports in his family that will continue for generations to come. Most of all, Albino loved his family and the time he spent with them.

Albino is survived by his wife, Rosa Irma Camacho de Almanza; children, Maria Esther Martinez, Albino Almanza, Jr. (Linnea), Dora Alicia Guevara (Aliver), Alfonso Almanza (Maribel), Maria Elizabeth Flores (Ronald), Alvaro Antonio Almanza, and Alberto Andres Almanza; step-children, Maria De Jesus Navarro (Jose), Nora Irma Ambriz (Jonas), Rosa Isela Garcia (Juan), Elsa Nidia Escobedo (Mario); 41 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and brother, Juan Almanza of Mexico.

The funeral service for Albino will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Austin. Friends and family are invited from 4:00-8:00 p.m. to gather at Mariachi Restaurant. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.

Albino Almanza Aguirre, de 91 años, de Austin, Minnesota, falleció el domingo 5 de Abril de 2026 en Cedars of Austin. Albino nació el 16 de Diciembre de 1934 en Guanajuato, México, hijo de Alfonso Almanza y Aurelia Almanza de Aguirre. Albino vivió muchos años en Nuevo Laredo, México, y Laredo, Texas, antes de establecer las raíces de su familia en Minnesota. Albino contrajo matrimonio con Rosa Irma Camacho de Almanza en St. James, Minnesota. Albino fue un hombre de muchas habilidades, trabajando principalmente en la agricultura y la ganadería. Albino disfrutaba ver diversos deportes, incluyendo boxeo, béisbol y fútbol americano. Le encantaba jugar softbol durante la mayor parte de su vida adulta. Albino también amaba correr, actividad que disfrutó hasta bien entrada su octava década. Albino inculcó el amor por los deportes en su familia, un legado que continuará por generaciones. Sobre todo, Albino amaba a su familia y el tiempo que pasaba con ellos.

Albino deja en duelo a su esposa, Rosa Irma Camacho de Almanza; hijos, Maria Esther Martinez, Albino Almanza, Jr. (Linnea), Dora Alicia Guevara (Aliver), Alfonso Almanza (Maribel), Maria Elizabeth Flores (Ronald), Alvaro Antonio Almanza y Alberto Andres Almanza; hijastros, Maria De Jesus Navarro (Jose), Nora Irma Ambriz (Jonas), Rosa Isela Garcia (Juan), Elsa Nidia Escobedo (Mario); 41 nietos; 39 bisnietos; y su hermano, Juan Almanza de México.

El servicio funerario de Albino se llevará a cabo a las 2:00 p.m. el jueves 9 de Abril de 2026 en Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home en Austin, Minnesota. La visita se realizará una hora antes del servicio. El entierro será en Calvary Cemetery, Austin. Amigos y familiares están invitados de 4:00 a 8:00 p.m. a reunirse en Mariachi Restaurant. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes de Austin están asistiendo a la familia con los arreglos.

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04/07/2026

If you haven't already done your taxes, the deadline is coming up fast. Mark your calendars for April 15th!

04/07/2026

Steve Edward Stoltenberg

Steve Edward Stoltenberg, age 79, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Cedars of Austin. He was born April 26, 1946, in Fairmont, Minnesota, to Edwin and Adelia (Rave) Stoltenberg. Steve graduated from Welcome High School in 1964 and went on to earn an associate’s degree in accounting from Jackson Vo-Tech. He began his career at Hormel right after college and dedicated 43 years to the company before retiring in April of 2008. On May 12, 1979, Steve married Susan Ebeling in Fairmont, and together they raised their daughter, Sara. He previously served as a member of the Jaycees. Steve enjoyed bowling, golfing, fishing, and deer hunting. He was also an avid sports fan, especially of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins.

Survivors include his wife, Susan Stoltenberg of Austin, Minnesota, and daughter, Sara Sue Stoltenberg of Austin, Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Adelia Stoltenberg; an infant son; sister, Betty; and sister, Dixie.

A celebration of life for Steve will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. Interment will be in Welcome City Cemetery, Welcome, Minnesota, at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the Hormel Institute – Cancer Research or recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.

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04/07/2026

04/06/2026

Barbara Lee Finley-Shea

Barbara Lee Finley-Shea was born at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin, Minnesota, on September 19, 1955, just 15 minutes after her mother arrived in labor. At this very same hospital, 70 years, 6 months, and 2 days later, she passed away here, after a fall in her home the morning of March 21, 2026. The family really appreciates the kind ER staff who attended to her.

In the years between those dates, Barbara led a kind, consistent, faithful, loving life. She was even awarded the Citizenship Award upon high school graduation from Hayfield High School class of 1974. She was in the National Honor Society and served as editor of the school newspaper, writing many of the articles.

She attended Concordia College, in Moorhead, Minnesota class of 1978. She was an English major with concentration in religion and biology. She had expansive interests.

Upon graduation, she worked for a short time selling uniforms at Ina Mays in Rochester. She found work more in line with her education serving in Montevideo, Minnesota, in a work readiness program, helping people learn to write resumes and interview for work. In that community, she enjoyed teaching Sunday School.

That service work led her back to her true calling, and she enrolled in Luther Northwestern Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she obtained her Master of Divinity degree with the class of 1988. She pursued advanced training at Hennepin County Medical Center and became a certified hospital chaplain in 1989.

Once she finished her program, she accepted a call to serve in Lime Springs and Chester, Iowa as an ELCA pastor. During those years she first adopted a poodle named Benji. He soon had to make room for an Iowan farmer, Keith Shea, whom she married in 1994. With Keith came the addition of two great children, Lacy (12) and Cody Shea (6). Even with the addition of more humans, they were often outnumbered at home by Barbara's numerous cats and dogs.

In 1999, Barbara accepted a call to Lyle, Minnesota, where she served as pastor at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. While there, Barb volunteered countless hours with the Mower County Humane Society and helped place homeless animals. In addition to that volunteer work, Barbara had a passion for environmental issues and worked tirelessly to combat factory farms for the threat they posed to our environment. She worked to promote family farms as better for our environment. She was also a faithful blood donor.

After leaving Lyle, she and Keith bought their home on Highway 218. Being environmentalists, they installed energy efficient windows and solar panels.

One to enjoy staying busy and having purpose, she continued to serve others as a group home care giver through Independent Management Services. Additionally, she worked as a home health aide through Regency Services. After some years passed, she returned to ministries as a part-time pastor at St Michael's in Waltham.

She loved her husband of 31 years, Keith Shea, a former Hormel employee, who survives her. They shared a respectful love for one another and commitment to their family and their community.

Additionally, Barbara is survived by her daughter, Lacy Shea and the father of her children, Shawn Losee; son, Cody (Kelsey) Shea; four grandchildren, Fredrick, Bernadette, Frances, and Rory; siblings, Bernette Finley-Drawe and Bryan (Rebecca) Finley; brother-in-law, Patrick (Donna) Shea; sisters-in-law, Karen (Tom) Wencl and Rita Shea; nephews and nieces, Sam Drawe, Claire Drawe, Rev. Paul (Kerissa) Finley, Matthew Finley, Benjamin (Megan) Finley, Christine (Kevin) O’Brien, Laura Shea, Wayne (Linnea) Wencl, Chris Wencl, Jenny Wencl, Amanda (Jarrod) Tomlinson, and Tim Shea, Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dallas and Edith (Holtan) Finley; grandparents, Everett and Ruth Finley and Alfred and Minnie Holtan; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenny and Betty Shea; and brothers-in-law, Wayne and Tim Shea, Sr.

A Celebration of Life for Barbara will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin, Minnesota. The visitation will take place from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service. The family encourages you to come as you are, with no need to dress formally.

Memorials are preferred to mental health charities, The United Way, Autism Speaks, or the American Red Cross.

Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.

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04/06/2026

Allen "Butch" Anderson

Allen "Butch" Charles Anderson, a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loyal friend, skilled craftsman, and lifelong outdoorsman, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on April 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Butch was born on August 2, 1950, in Owatonna, MN, to Gerth "Bud" and Phyllis Anderson. He grew up in Blooming Prairie, MN, and graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1968. He answered the call to serve his country as a young man in the United States Army, where he carried himself with quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering commitment. His years of service shaped not only his life, but the lives of those who knew and admired him.

After returning home, Butch built a life centered on family, hard work, and simple joys. He worked as a carpenter and dedicated his time to raising and making memories with his four children, Jeff, Craig, Becky, and Todd. He married the love of his life, Diane, on August 4, 1990, and they have resided together in Blooming Prairie ever since. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring love. As a father, Butch led by example—teaching the value of honesty, resilience, and showing up when it mattered most. As a grandfather, he found his greatest joy, never missing an opportunity to lend a hand, attend an event, or share his love for woodworking and outdoor gaming activities.

Butch was a craftsman in the truest sense of the word. Whether working with wood, repairing what others thought was beyond saving, or creating something entirely new, his hands told the story of patience, precision, and pride. His work lives on in the homes and hearts of those he cared for. When Butch wasn't in his shop creating treasures, he could often be found outdoors. He shared his love and passion for hunting and fishing with his sons and grandchildren and created countless memories on his family's land sharing his gaming expertise. If Butch wasn't in his shop or outdoors, he could most likely be found at the campground. He found lifelong friends that became family each summer at the campground and he and Diane enjoyed sharing his passion for camping with their children and grandchildren. To his friends, Butch was steady and true--the kind of man you could rely on without question. He believed in showing up, lending a hand without being asked, and in sharing a laugh even in difficult times.

Butch is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his children, Jeff (Carrie) Anderson, Craig (Gail) Anderson, Becky (Zach) Peterson, and Todd (Amy Carlson) Anderson; his step-children, Jason (Shannon) Iacovino, Janelle (Chris) Stenzel, Phil Iacovino, and JoAuna (Mike) Gage; his grandchildren, Morgan (Zach) Elward, Elizabeth, Wyatt, Lauren, Madelyn, Leo, Chase, Fletcher, Annika, Meadow, Brianna, Mason, and Grayson; his siblings, Judy (Wayde) Bishop, Arden (Karla) Anderson, Debbie (Terry) Hoffman, Janine (Mick) Brooks, and LeAnn Repp (Rick Thornbloom); mother-in-law, Carol Holmes; sister-in-law, Jan Anderson; brother in-law, David (Judy) Thorn; sister-in-law, Sheryl (Chris) Mans; daughter-in-law, Jenn Iacovino; aunt, Donna Schieck; several cousins, nieces, and nephews, countless friends, and his beloved furry companion, Bella. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerth "Bud" and Phyllis (Anderson); siblings, Arlen Anderson and David Anderson; father-in-law, Charles "Chuck" Holmes; father and mother in-law, James and Lorine Thorn; and his granddaughter, Liliana Iacovino. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, and the deep, abiding love he had for his family and country. His legacy is not only in what he built, but in the lives he shaped and the values he instilled. A life well lived, a man deeply loved, and a legacy that will endure.

A memorial service for Butch will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, officiated by Pastor Heidi Heimgartner at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, with Butch's sons Craig and Todd serving as urn bearers and Butch's grandchildren Morgan, Elizabeth, Wyatt, Lauren, Madelyn, Leo, Chase, Fletcher, Annika, Meadow, Brianna, Mason, and Grayson serving as honorary urn bearers. The visitation will take place one hour prior. After the service, Butch will be honored with a Twenty-One Gun Salute at the Servicemen’s Club and a reception will immediately follow. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Coyotes Fur Cancer – Community Fund. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.

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04/04/2026

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult situations we face. But did you know that participating in rituals can help you move forward on your grief journey? Learn more about how establishing habits that include mourning rituals can bring peace, comfort, and healing in the midst of grief.

In our lives, we all participate in rituals. To learn more about the healing aspects of rituals, take a few moments to read this article.

03/31/2026

Earling Kenneth Opsahl

Earling Kenneth Opsahl, 97, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on March 30, 2026, at home with his family.

Earling was born on a farm near Mabel, Minnesota, on March 9, 1929, to Roy and Ida (Nelson) Opsahl. At the age of 12, his family moved to Austin. He attended Austin Central High School until the 8th grade, when he left school to help his family. He worked at Kinsman Nursery, Gildners, and was an over-the-road truck driver. In 1951, he was called to service in the Korean War. As a private, he trained as a mechanic at the Eta Jima Specialist School, completed his GED, and advanced to the rank of corporal in the Army’s 702nd Tank Battalion. After his return from service, he worked as a school bus driver for Pikes Bus Co. and as a machinist for the City of Austin. He retired from the city in 1982.

Earling met Martha Scofield through his sister, Gladys. They were married on November 6, 1955, and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. They were blessed with four daughters (Earl’s Girls), Marsha, Connie, Susan, and Roseanne; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Earling was an active member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church for many years, where he served as an usher, Sunday School teacher to over 200 eighth graders, and was a founding member of the weekly prayer group. His devotion to faith and service was observed in how he lived his life as an example to others. Throughout his life he shared the following blessing with family and friends, “The good Lord loves you all. Keep your hands in his hands when you walk every day because he loves you very much.”

Earling was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ida Opsahl; brothers, Raymond, Milford, and LeRoy; sisters, Rosie, Ethel, Verna Otterness, Norma Johnson, and Gladys Opsahl; and great-grandson, Henry Sammann.

He is survived by his wife, Martha; daughters, Marsha (Dan) Wilson, Connie (Freddy) Tsui, Susan (Todd) Peterson, Roseanne (Steve) Dahlgren; grandchildren, Rebecca Toov, Nathan Wilson, Katie Ferrell, Sonia Carver, Maria Ehlmquist-Tsui, Lydia Lindley, Aimee Renner, Hannah Sammann; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Elmer Opsahl; sister, Idella Bailey; and sister-in-law, Carol Opsahl.

The family would like to thank Earling’s many guardian angels, especially Yvette Guerra, who have supported him during this time.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Memorials are preferred to the Wee Learning Center, Salvation Army, or The Hormel Institute. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.

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03/31/2026

Zetta Marie Simpson

Zetta Marie Simpson, age 99, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Truman Senior Living in Truman, Minnesota. Zetta was born on April 15, 1926, to Leroy and Sarah (Knutson) Dixon in Lyle, Minnesota. Zetta attended high school in Austin before working for Hormel for three years. There, she met the love of her life, Robert Simpson, and the couple married on January 7, 1947, at the First United Methodist Church in Austin. Their union was blessed with three children. As a dedicated homemaker, Zetta contributed to the family farm and lovingly cared for animals. She was known for her nurturing spirit, often caring for her aunts and uncles, and she had a passion for bird and squirrel watching. Zetta also enjoyed gardening, collecting butterflies, and was an avid reader.

Survivors include her children, Dale (Barb) Simpson of Truman, Minnesota, Karen (John) Mentz of Owatonna, Minnesota, and Shirlee (Lon) Mast of Denison, Texas; grandchildren, Bruel (Mindy), Delight (Justin), Juel, Daniel, David (Sara), Christopher (Bevin O’Brien), and Robin; great-grandchildren, Dalton, Levi, Hailey, Hannah, Joslin, Michael, Foster, Alex, Zoe, and Sophie. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and her siblings.

A memorial service for Zetta will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.

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03/28/2026

Not sure where to start as you create a one-of-a-kind final tribute for a loved one? In this blog, you will read about 7 tried and true elements of the funeral and how you can personalize each one to craft a meaningful final goodbye for someone dearly loved.

When planning a funeral, consider including these 7 elements to create an experience that brings healing and meaningful significance.

03/24/2026

Jerome Max Jakobson

Jerome Max Jakobson, age 82, of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, passed away Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Mark’s Living in Austin, Minnesota. Jerome was born to Arlo and Marion (Christiansen) Jakobson on January 6, 1944, in Albert Lea, Minnesota. He graduated from Albert Lea High School and furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree in accounting from Mankato. He retired from his career in accounting at Fabricated Wood Products in Owatonna, where he dedicated many years. On February 6, 1965, Jerome married Linda Holmes at First Baptist Church in Blooming Prairie, and together they raised six children. Jerome was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church. Throughout his life he was very involved in ministry, he served as a deacon, taught Sunday School, and directed music. He also served on the board at Prairie Manor Care Center in Blooming Prairie. Jerome enjoyed attending auctions and was known for his passion for woodworking, as well as his impressive collection of tools from Sears.

Survivors include his children, Connie (Mike) Frazier, Jerry (Cassandra) Jakobson, Wendy (Darrick) Schewe, Scott Jakobson, Robyn (Kyle) Thompson, and Heidi (Shawn) Brown; 24 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arlo and Marion Jakobson; wife, Linda; and sisters, Sharon Bowen and Mary Kay Jakobson.

A funeral service for Jerome will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Blooming Prairie. The visitation will take place from 9:30-11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be in Blooming Prairie City Cemetery. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.

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