Weigel Funeral and Cremation Service, 309 4th Avenue NW, Mandan, ND (2026)

06/05/2026

Maggie Schlosser

Maggie Schlosser, 77, Mandan, passed away Friday, June 5, 2026 at Edgewood in Mandan. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, June 11 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Mandan with Fr. Josh Waltz presiding. Burial will follow at the North Dakota Veteran’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM with a Parish Rosary/Vigil at 7 PM on Wednesday, June 10 at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan. Visitation will continue one hour prior to Mass on Thursday.

Full obituary to come….

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06/04/2026

Roger Vetter

Roger "Rog" Vetter, 80, passed away peacefully at his home at "The Ranch" in Mandan, North Dakota, on June 2, 2026, surrounded by the place and people he loved most.

A memorial service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Weigel Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery. A celebration of Roger's life will continue later that day beginning at 4:00 p.m. at "The Ranch," where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories.

Roger was born on July 29, 1945, to John and Maggie Vetter. He married the love of his life, Sandy Loeb, daughter of Emily and Ed Loeb, on June 29, 1968. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and lasting friendships. Roger and Sandy shared nearly 58 years of marriage and were just 27 days shy of celebrating their 58th wedding anniversary.

In January 1964, Roger joined the United States Navy and served as an Electrical Repairman. Following his military service, he operated Roger's TV Service for many years, becoming a familiar and trusted face in the community. Later, he joined Bismarck Hospital as a Biomedical Technician, where he worked until his retirement in 2012. Roger was a talented musician who played in bands throughout his high school years. Roger and Sandy were frequently requested to sing 'The Ceremony' at countless weddings and anniversaries.

In 1994, Roger and Sandy moved to "The Ranch" south of Mandan, where he fulfilled his dream of country living. He took great pride in being a hobby rancher, raising cattle, cutting hay, tending large gardens, and caring for the land. Roger especially enjoyed fishing on the river, playing horseshoes, Friday night bowling, and countless games of pinochle with family and friends. He cherished time spent outdoors and the many memories made with those he loved.

Roger's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose steady presence, quiet strength, and generous spirit will be deeply missed. His love and guidance extended beyond his immediate family, and he became a second father to three of his children's closest friends-Jay, Mark, and Julio-who always knew they were welcome in the Vetter home and at the Ranch.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy Vetter; his children, Steve Vetter (Danielle Holland), Ryan Vetter (Leisa), and Elysia Bauer (Josh); grandchildren, Caitlyn (Logan) Kalenze, Greyson Vetter, Makenah (Sean) Pennington, Aspen Vetter, Joshua Vetter, and Nash Bauer; and great-grandchildren, Silas and Reighlynn Pennington.

He is also survived by his brothers, Gene (Nancy) Vetter, Joe (Kathy) Vetter, Ed Vetter, and Shermie (Julie) Vetter; his sisters, Diane Vetter, Tootsie (Butch) Bjerklie, and Debbie Vetter; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, John and Maggie Vetter; his sister, LaVonne Perdue; and his brothers, Ray Vetter, Stanley Vetter, and Urbie Vetter.

Roger's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, hard work, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Whether family by birth or family by choice, Roger made people feel valued, welcomed, and loved. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

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06/02/2026

Waldo Zahn

Waldo William Zahn Jr., "Akicita Najin" (Standing Soldier), age 67, passed away on May 31, 2026, in Mandan, surrounded by the love of his children. His passing leaves a quiet ache, yet his memory remains a gentle, steady light for everyone who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10 AM on Friday June 5, 2026, at the AJ Agard Multi Cultural Center in Fort Yates. Burial will follow at the Kidder Family Cemetery in rural Fort Yates.

The family procession from Mandan to Fort Yates will begin at 4:30 PM on Thursday, June 4, from Weigel Funeral Home to the AJ Agard Multi Cultural Center. A wake service will begin at 7 PM followed by an all-night vigil.

Waldo was born in Fort Yates, ND, to Helen Felix and Waldo Zahn Sr. He spent his childhood in Fort Yates, White Shield, and Jamestown, each community shaping him in meaningful ways. He attended Wahpeton Boarding School for most of his early years, where he learned resilience, independence, and the importance of family. He later graduated from Kicking Horse Job Corps with his GED and training as a diesel mechanic, a trade he was proud to master.

After completing his education, Waldo returned home and began working for the Fort Yates Public School as a bus driver, a role he held for 30 years. It was more than a job; it was a place where he found purpose. He cared deeply for the students he transported, offering them safety, consistency, and kindness every day.

Following his retirement from the school, Waldo began a new chapter at Prairie Knights Casino, where he worked in Maintenance, Security, and eventually as a Slot Technician. His coworkers respected him, and many became lifelong friends. No matter the role, Waldo brought dedication, humor, and a steady presence that people relied on.

Waldo was also an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved the outdoors, and he loved the stories that came with it - the hunting adventures, the tall tales, and the legendary buck that always managed to get away. He was fortunate to hunt alongside his children, brothers, nephews, friends, and later his grandchildren, as soon as they were old enough to join him. These moments became treasured memories for everyone who shared them with him.

He also enjoyed visiting casinos whenever he could, traveling to Grand River, Four Bears, and Dakota Magic, which were among his favorites. And above all, his greatest joy was simply spending time with his family and grandchildren - visiting, laughing, and cheering on his favorite NFL team, the Denver Broncos. He truly was one of their biggest fans.

Waldo made his home in Fort Yates, ND, where he lived until he suffered a stroke. The land, the river, and the community were woven into the fabric of his life. Even as his health changed, the spirit of Fort Yates - and the life he built there - remained close to him and to those who loved him.

Throughout his 67 years, Waldo lived with sincerity and purpose. He carried himself with a humble strength, offering support in ways that were thoughtful, dependable, and caring. Whether through a warm smile, unwavering humor, a listening ear, or the simple comfort of his presence, he made the world softer for the people around him.

Waldo is survived by his five daughters who were the pride of his life: Wynette (Joseph) Snider, LeeDawn (Shane) Ramsey, Amy (Landin) Carry Moccasin, Courtney (Noah) Kills Pretty Enemy, and Blossom (Layne) Cadotte. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Alexandria, Kaleb, Joey, Lincoln, Allister, Everly, Kenzington, Dillon and Marceline.

He is further survived by his siblings: Valerie (John) Eagle Shield, Theresa (David) Holter, and Melvin Martinez; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren that he cherished and adored, who will remember him with love and gratitude for the bond they shared

Waldo was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Waldo Sr; brother, Nick; sister, Twyla; his son, Carl Kidder; the mother of his children, Carla Kidder; nephews, Erick Three Legs, Nevada and Jay Twinn, Larry Jr., and Justin Fox; niece, Catherine Fox; and grandson, Erick Three Legs. Their memories now join his, carried together in the hearts of those who remain.

Those who knew him will definitely remember his humor, his resilience, and the way he could brighten a room without ever trying. Though his absence leaves a space that words cannot fill, his spirit remains woven into the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

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06/01/2026

https://www.weigelfuneral.com/obituaries/patrick-hammerel

View Patrick Hammerel's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/01/2026

Ronald Speirs

Ronald A. Speirs passed away May 30, 2026 with his wife Mary by his side, after a 11-year battle with Alzheimer's.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at the Church of St. Joseph, Mandan, with Fr. Josh Waltz presiding. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at Weigel Funeral Home from 5pm – 7pm, with a rosary and parish vigil beginning at 7pm.

Ron was born in Fairbury, NE on December 3, 1950, to Vernon and Freda (DeVries) Speirs. In 1953 the family moved to Libby, MT. Ron attended school in Libby, graduating in 1969. He enlisted in the US Navy the same year and completed basic training in San Diego, CA. He was trained at the Naval Communications Station in Cheltenham, MD as a radiomen and served on the US Franklin Delano Roosevelt Aircraft Carrier touring the Mediterranean Sea for 301 days with ports at Spain, Mallorca, Italy, Rhodes, Greece and Malta.

Ron was honorably discharged in 1973 and returned to Libby where he met Mary Stoller. Ron and Mary were married on July 12, 1974, at St. Joseph’s Catholic church in Libby. They moved to Kalispell the same year. Ron earned his Associates of Applied Science from Flathead Valley Community College. He worked for Doyle Enterprises as a land surveyor and Clyde Smith Logging as a skidder operator. Ron and Mary’s daughter, Becca, was born in 1980 in Kalispell, MT.

In 1982, the family moved to Stanton, ND. Ron worked for Basin Electric at the Leland Olds Stations as a laborer. In 1983, their son Ryan, was born. In 1986, the family moved to Hazen, ND and Ron transferred over to the Basin Electric Antelope Valley station as part of the startup crew for the plant. A few years later, Ron completed the courses to join the Instrument and Control Shop and worked there until his retirement in 2010. Ron was a member of the IBEW Local #1593. Ron and Mary began wintering in Arizona in 2011. There they enjoyed golfing and Ron played shuffle board and volunteered as a Ranger. In 2021, Ron and Mary moved from Hazen to Mandan, ND.

Ron was received in the Catholic Church at St. Martins in Hazen, ND in 1986. He served on the St. Martins Parish and Finance councils for many years. In their years of raising children, many weekends were spent camping with friends, golfing and of course doing home projects. Ron could build and fix just about anything and instilled in his family an incredible work ethic.

Like so many married couples, Ron and Mary developed a love for each other’s hobbies over the years. Ron loved building things, Mary loved finding things for Ron to build. Mary loved quilting and flower beds, Ron counted and laid out squares and dug holes upon request. They were a great team, especially when it came to being Nana and Poppa.

Ron enjoyed spending time with his family and loved babies. His grandchildren will remember him for his smile, silliness, cuddles and hard work. Ron famously said on many occasions, “If Mary and I had known how much fun grandchildren were, we would have had them first.” He was the most fun Poppa.

In the last years, Mary heroically cared for Ron as life became more difficult due to the progression of his Alzheimer's. She spent countless hours sitting by his side and was by his side when he took his last breath. For better or worse, her love and care for him never faltered. Mary treasured Ron's smiles of recognition and said they were such a consolation in the midst of their joint suffering.

Ron is survived by his wife Mary of 52 years; children Becca (Nate) Swenson Mandan, and Ryan (Priscilla) Bismarck; grandchildren, Andrew, Lainey, Levi, Nora, John and Luke Swenson, Kandrian, Zoey, and Nash Speirs; sister Donna (Dan) Cook Washington; brother, Jeff, Indiana; brothers-in-law, John, and Bill (Carol) Stoller, Montana; niece Kaycee (Brad) Johnson, Washington; nephews, Dale Stoller, Idaho, Edward Stoller, Montana, Jesse Speirs, Montana; aunts Ellen DeVries, Nebraska, Joann DeVries, Washington and numerous cousins.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents Freda and Ernie Eggert and Vernon Speirs; his very special mother-in-law, Mary Stoller; father-in-law, Fred Stoller; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family would like to thank all of Ron’s caregivers and the staff at Baptist Health. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in Ron’s memory.

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06/01/2026

Greg Westberg

Our beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, Gregory John Westberg, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, with his wife and children by his side following complications from cancer therapy.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mandan, with Fr. Josh Waltz celebrating. Burial will follow at the St. Anthony Cemetery in St. Anthony, ND.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Thursday, June 4, at Weigel Funeral Home, Mandan, with a St. Anthony Verein Rosary at 7 PM followed by a Parish Vigil. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Gregory John Westberg was born April 14, 1958, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to Julius and Clarice (Raiter) Westberg. Two years later, his sister, Linda joined the family, and the two shared a special bond throughout their lives.

Greg often spoke of the wonderful childhood he enjoyed. Surrounded by friends and a loving family, some of his fondest memories were spent fishing and enjoying summers at Lake Henry with his cousins, aunts, uncles, and extended family. He often said he could not have asked for a better childhood and credited his parents for providing a life filled with love, adventure, and happy memories. He remained especially close to his father, Julius, and grandfather, John, throughout his life.

He graduated from Henry Sibley High School in 1976, and worked at Perkins before answering the call to serve his country. In 1978, Greg joined the United States Army and proudly served for 22 years, retiring honorably in 2000 with the rank of Sergeant First Class. While in the army, he achieved his Associates degree in history from the University of Kansas. His military career took him many places and provided countless experiences, but he remained deeply patriotic and proud of his service to the country he loved.

Greg was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan Schreiber, in 1987. She was his soulmate in every way possible. Together they built a life centered around faith, family, and community and were blessed with eight children: Anna 1988, Elizabeth 1990, Josephine 1993, William, 1995, James 1997, Mary 1999, Teresa 2002, and Patricia 2004. Their home was always filled with activity, laughter, and love.

Above all else, Greg was devoted to his family. He had a remarkable gift for making each of his children feel special. Whether it was taking one child at a time into town for McDonald's ice cream, a favorite treat, a toy, going on long walks, sharing conversations about anything and everything, or creating family traditions that lasted a lifetime, Greg made sure his children knew they were loved. Annual fishing trips to Lake Metigoshe, trick-or-treating adventures, family gatherings, and countless outdoor excursions became treasured memories because he was at the center of them.

An avid hunter and outdoorsman, Greg eagerly anticipated opening day each fall and carried on hunting traditions that became a cornerstone of family life. Susan often joked that she was a "hunting widow" from September through January. His freezer was always full, and he took great pride in passing his love of hunting, fishing, and the outdoors on to his children and grandchildren, especially his sons.

Greg was also passionate for history, particularly United States military history. He enjoyed collecting fi****ms, target shooting, and sharing his knowledge with family and friends. Saturday nights often found him sitting in his favorite chair surrounded by his children, watching the classic horror movies he had loved since childhood while sharing popcorn and ice cream. He also enjoyed spending time watching shows such as Mountain Monsters, Forgotten Weapons, and Forged in Fire.

Those who knew Greg will remember his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and ability to make people laugh. He was a proud smartass in the best possible way always ready with a joke, a story, or a perfectly timed comment. He could spot nonsense from a mile away and never hesitated to say so. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained humble and grounded. His humor, kindness, and authenticity drew people to him, and he never met a stranger whose name he wouldn't remember.

Greg was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. He cherished his grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. Like his father before him who had a deep appreciation for those who married his children, Greg held a special place in his heart for his daughter-in-law, Kaitlyn, whom he loved as family. He thought highly of his future daughter-in-law, Michaela Granger, and was looking forward to celebrating her marriage to his son, James. He also greatly admired and appreciated his son-in-law, Travis, and the love and support he brought to the family. He had respect for his son-in-law, Peyton, who looked up to him and he welcomed Peyton to the family as his own son. He adored his daughters companion, Caleb, and was deeply proud of the man he became.

His daughter, Anna, often affectionately referred to him as her "Teddy Roosevelt," admiring not only their similar appearance but also his love of hunting, fi****ms, the outdoors, and his unwavering confidence. Like Roosevelt, Greg was strong-willed, independent, and never one to tolerate nonsense.

Greg was a devout man of faith who lived his life rooted in the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church. His commitment to the traditional Catholic faith was evident in his daily life, guiding his values, decisions, and relationships. He found strength and peace in prayer and the sacraments, and he took great comfort in his spiritual devotion throughout his life.

Greg's family will forever cherish the memories. Most of all, they will remember a man who gave them an extraordinary childhood, taught them by example, loved them unconditionally, and made every member of his family feel valued.

Greg's greatest legacy is not found in his military service, hunting trophies, or accomplishments, but in the family, he loved so deeply. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a loyal friend, will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Greg’s dream was to live in a small farm town in North Dakota and to quote Greg, “And by God, I got that dream.”

Greg was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, father-in-law, and many beloved aunts and uncles.

He leaves behind his wife of nearly 39 years, Susan; his children, Anna Westberg of Fargo, Elizabeth (Travis) Wettlaufer of West Fargo, Josephine Westberg of Bismarck, William (Kaitlyn) Westberg of Castorland, New York, James Westberg and his fiancée, Michaela Granger of St. Anthony, Mary Westberg (Caleb Moore) of Bismarck, Teresa (Peyton) Headley of Aviano, Italy, and Patricia Westberg of Mandan; his grandchildren, Scarlett, William Jr., Eleanor, and Ava; his sister, Linda (Jim) Zawacki of Woodbury, Minnesota; mother-in-law, Nona Ann Schreiber of Mandan; sister-in-law, Nina Hohnstein of El Cajon, California; nieces and nephew, Kari, Eric, and Maria; and his beloved hunting dogs, Raina, Bonnie, and Addie.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials for the upkeep of St. Clement Oratory of Haymarsh, or charity of your choice.

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05/29/2026

Sharon K***z

Sharon Ann K***z, 81, of Mandan, passed away with her family by her side on May 28, 2026, at Missouri Slope Lutheran Care Center after a long battle of FTD Dementia.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mandan. Burial will follow at Mandan Union Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5-6 PM on Monday, June 1, at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan with a Parish Rosary and Vigil at 6 PM. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.

Sharon was born December 27, 1944, in Bismarck, to Frank and Ann (Leingang) Gangl. In January 1963, she married the love of her life, Frank K***z. They lived in Virginia and California before moving back to Mandan in 1969, where they settled and raised their children, Mike and Bonnie. Sharon worked at Ben’s Fairway and Dan’s Supermarket. She retired as a meat wrapper after many years at Dan’s. Sharon enjoyed fishing, shopping, cooking, and spending time with family and friends, but her greatest joy of all was her grandchildren. If you knew Sharon, you know she loved to entertain for the holidays and you never went hungry.

Sharon will be deeply missed by her family including her children, Mike (Karen), Nocona, TX and Bonnie K***z, Mandan; 5 grandchildren, Michael (Kari) K***z, Cassey (Tanner) Henry, Shelby (Juan) Herrera, Jacob (Shannon) Willer, and Amanda (Jason) Lantz; 12 great grandchildren, MJ, Dylan, Suri, Makenna, Saddey, Gunner, Emrynne, Jax, Gabe, Annabel, Jameson, and Evelyn; siblings, Kenny (Linda) Gangl and Jeanette Pohlman (Norman Fisher); and sister-in-law, Sue Gangl.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Frank K***z in 2024; her parents, Frank and Ann Gangl; brother, Jim Gangl; brother-in-law, Bernie Pohlman; and son-in-law, Wes Vietz.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Missouri Slope for taking such good care of our Mom.

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05/27/2026

Clara Schaaf

Clara (Zander) Schaaf passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, at Marian Manor Nursing Home in Glen Ullin, ND. She was 100 years old.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM CST on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glen Ullin, ND, with Fr. Gary Benz celebrating. Burial will follow at 3 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, 4606 Highway 1806, Mandan.

Visitation will be from 5-6 PM Sunday, May 31, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Glen Ullin, with Rosary service at 6 PM.

Clara was born March 11, 1926, at the family home near Crown Butte, ND, the ninth of twelve children born to George and Marian “Mary” (Schmidt) Zander. Family meant everything to Clara. She especially enjoyed spending time with her brothers and sisters, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Teaching her grandchildren how to play cards was her specialty. Clara had a green thumb; everything she planted thrived. She taught her children, and later her grandchildren, the art of baking, gardening, and canning.

After retiring to town, Clara enjoyed daily coffee dates with her friends and was a member of several card clubs. She was a master at crocheting and made a blanket for all of her grandchildren. Clara was a lifetime member of the Christian Mothers and Lioness groups.

Clara is survived by her children, David (Alvira) Schaaf, Rick Schaaf, Mary (Dan) Herold, Brenda (Bill) Duppong, Michael (Valerie) Schaaf, Anne (Rick) Covey, and son-in-law, Steve Hamar; as well as a legacy that lives on through her 35 grandchildren and many cherished great and great-great-grandchildren. Clara is also survived by her sister, Irene (Ralph) Kautzman and sisters-in-law, Mary Zander and Jeannine Simon.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mary Zander; husband, Michael V. Schaaf; daughter, Donna Hamar; sons-in-law, Allan Duppong and Joseph Vogel; daughter-in-law, Nora Schaaf; grandson, Jacob Schaaf; brothers and sisters, Ralph Zander, Joseph Zander, Elizabeth Fichter Miller, Veronica Miller, Monica McDonald, Harry Zander, Helen Ivester, Rose Erhardt, Nick Zander, and Marcus Zander.

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05/26/2026

Marna Held

Marna Louise (Ott) Held, 83, New Salem, died on May 19th, 2026 at Elm Crest Manor surrounded by her husband and family. Funeral services for Marna will be held on Saturday, June 6th at 1:00 PM at Salem UCC in New Salem, ND.

Marna was born on November 1, 1942 in Fairmont, Minnesota to Rev. Harold and Beatrice (Teason) Ott. Although Marna started school in Fairmont, her family moved to the Chicago area while she was still young so her father could serve churches in Naperville and Evanston. Marna graduated from Evanston High School in 1960 and shortly after this the family moved to Bensenville, Illinois.

After high school Marna took night classes at Elmhurst College while working at a few different jobs, including Paraplegic Manufacturing and U.S. Plywood. Marna also worked at a veterinary clinic and as a switchboard operator.

In March of 1969, Marna was visiting family friends Rev. Harold and Erma Jane Willman in New Salem. While she was there, they went out to the farm of Carl and Evelyn Held to get some eggs. This was the first time Marna and Donald met. Donald sent a Christmas card to Marna that year, and they continued to get to know each other through all the letters they sent. Over Memorial Day weekend in 1970 Donald visited Marna in Bensenville and proposed. Marna said yes. They were married at Peace UCC in Bensenville on October 10, 1970, and the couple made their home on the family farm southeast of New Salem.

Even though Marna grew up in the city, she loved living on the farm. Marna loved animals and was very fond of the animals on the farm, especially the pigs. She loved gardening and planted vegetables and flowers every year and then spent time canning and freezing as the summer drew to a close. Marna even learned how to butcher chickens, even though that was not her favorite task. Marna also helped out with fieldwork when she had time and loved taking evening drives with Donald around the farm.

Even though Marna kept busy with raising her children and all the work on the farm, she was still employed outside the home. Marna started selling Avon in 1980 and did that for 10 years. She later worked as a CNA at Elm Crest, followed by her time as the secretary at the Northern Plains Conference Office. Marna’s last job before retirement was at the Certified Nurses’ Education Network, where she worked until 2007.

Marna was a very creative woman and loved all kinds of arts and crafts. She took classes to learn how to decorate cakes, and the kids all loved her fun and clever birthday cakes. Marna learned how to sew, and made lots of outfits for her kids, especially when they were younger. She also learned how to crochet and cross stitch. Marna also wrote poetry and short stories even though many of them were never shared beyond the family.

Marna did not necessarily have a host of cooking or baking skills when she got married, even though she could make a mean pie crust, but she quickly learned many skills in the kitchen. She became a very good cook and a great baker. Marna was known for many special dishes and desserts, and her kids remember many of these tasty dishes with great fondness. What Marna’s kids remember the most was her homemade bread. Marna’s mother-in-law, Evelyn Held, taught her to bake bread, and from that time on she baked bread for her family every week. Marna even did presentations at the elementary school on how to bake bread.

Marna was also a talented musician. She was well known for her beautiful voice, but she also played the piano and accordion. Donald and Marna were known for the beautiful duets they sang in choir, and as the kids grew older singing in church became a family affair.

As a “Theologian’s Offspring”, it is probably not a surprise that Marna was a person of deep faith. She lived out her faith at home and at church. As a member at Peace Church Marna sang in the choir and played in the handbell choir. She taught Sunday school for many years, and she was part of the Women’s Guild before joining Koinonia. After joining Salem UCC, Marna continued to attend church every week, she taught Sunday school, and she still sang in the choir. It was also well known in the family that Marna spent time every morning in prayer. While she was working, Marna prayed on her way to work. After retiring, she still spent time every morning in prayer.

Marna loved being Grandma to her grandchildren, and in later years she loved being Oma to her great grandchildren. She loved watching her grandchildren as they played sports or played music in the band or orchestra. Marna loved spending time with her grandchildren and spoiling them with their favorite foods or fun sleepovers. Always a singer, Marna loved singing to her grandchildren and great grandchildren; they truly brought her great joy.

Marna is survived by her husband of 55 years, Donald Held; her children Margaret (Mark) Johnston, Carolyn (Darcy) Held, Deborah Held, and David (Jen) Held. She is also survived by her grandchildren Joshua (special friend Macayla) Tatum, Jacob (Lexie) Tatum, and Kylie Held; and her great grandchildren Oakleigh, Malakai, Evelyn, Kathryn and Ethan. Marna is also survived by one sister, Edith Diel. Marna was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Harold and Beatrice Ott; her daughter, Jennifer Held; and her sister, Emilie Ott.

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