Funerals

Click here to learn what to expect at a funeral at SEAS during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Darrell Robert Mohrhauser, age 79, of Vermillion, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on October 10, 2020. He was the son of Joseph and Hazel Mohrhauser. Darrell married his college sweetheart, Pat Dunn on July 11, 1964. He graduated from the University St. Thomas, worked as an educator and counselor for the City of St. Paul for 35 years. He cherished his family, faith, sailing and life on the farm. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Darrell is survived by his loving wife, Pat; children, Cindy Manning and Jim McConnell, Jean Lindberg, Joe and Kim Mohrhauser, Mike and Brenda Mohrhauser, Paul and Sarah Mohrhauser, and Beth and Mike Isensee; grandchildren, Justin, Alexis, Andrew, James, Jennifer, Alex, Kathryn, Christopher, Nicholas, Sylvia, Matthew and Zae; great grandchildren, Chloe, Carter and Harrison.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2020 at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 W. 15th St., Hastings. The burial will take place at St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Vermillion following Mass.

Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Darrell R. Mohrhauser please visit the Starkson Tribute Store.
 

Rita L. Gelhar, age 88 of Hastings, died suddenly but peacefully on Saturday morning, October 10, 2020, at United Hospital in St. Paul following complications from a fall.

Rita Laura, the daughter of Michael and Amelia (Yetzer) Braun, was born on June 25, 1932, at home in rural Hampton Township, Dakota County. On April 27, 1957, Rita was united in marriage to Richard "Rich" Gelhar at St. Mary's Catholic Church in New Trier. They were blessed with five children, many memories, and were able to recently celebrate sixty-three years of marriage. Rita was a longtime member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church where she volunteered for many years, and also enjoyed volunteering at Regina in Hastings. She was a talented crocheter and enjoyed giving her final products to family and friends. Even though she never drove, Rita enjoyed going for rides and was always making sure whomever was driving was doing it correctly. Most of all, Rita was a dedicated homemaker, and would do anything for her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Junilla, Edward, Jeanne, Nora, John, Tom and Collette.

Rita is survived by her loving husband, Rich; children, Vernon (Kim) Gelhar, Donna (Nick) Fox, Julie (Will) Mann, Paul (Cathy) Gelhar, and John (Wanda Bennett) Gelhar; ten grandchildren and many great grandchildren; siblings, Bernice Klahr, Vince Braun, and Leo Braun; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Braun, Jerry Gelhar, Herman (Betty) Gelhar, and Irene Dalbotten; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2020, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Hastings, with Father David Hennen officiating. Private family interment will be held at the parish cemetery.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday morning at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Hastings Family Service, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, or to the donor's choice in memory of Rita.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita L. Gelhar please visit the Starkson Tribute Store.
 

Gordon A. Kummer, age 95 of Hastings, died peacefully on Tuesday evening, September 29, 2020, at United Hospital in St. Paul.

Gordon Arthur, the son of Reinold and Marie (Gerlach) Kummer, was born on November 4, 1924, in Hastings. Following his education, Gordon began his career at Hudson Mfg. in Hastings, and later retired as an Operator from 3M. Whether it was hunting pheasants, fishing, or walking, Gordon loved being outdoors. He was an avid reader, a member of the Knights of Columbus 1600 and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church where he spent many hours as the "Chief Vacuum Man" cleaning the church on Tuesday mornings.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, Roland and Jean Kummer; and by his niece & nephews, Mary Chandler, Reinold Judge and Gary Judge.

Gordon is survived by his siblings, Harriet Judge, James (Marjean) Kummer, and Bob (Deb) Kummer; many nieces and nephews, and close friends at Regina Senior Living.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m, Friday, October 2, 2020, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Hastings, with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the donor's choice in memory of Gordon.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.
 

Diane Marie Nolan, 62, passed away suddenly from a pulmonary embolism during the early hours of Sept. 1, 2020. Before taking our Heavenly Father’s hand and faithfully answering His call, she spent her final moments with her loving husband, hand in hand, heart to heart.

She was born to Clarence and Mary (Foley) Walsh on March 21, 1958 in Hastings, MN, where she remained a life-long resident of the community. She graduated from Hastings High School in 1976. After some college, she went on to have a 36 year-long career at 3M in accounting; retiring in 2014.

Diane (mama, Di, Didee) will be remembered for her abundant joy, deep care for others, great hugs, and her contagious smile and laughter. She always gave generously of herself. She faithfully served her church in many ways, served as the treasurer of the Hastings Basketball Boosters for many years, and diligently donated her platelets. Her greatest joys in life were spending time with her family and friends, gardening, playing bingo, being the #1 fan at sporting events, country music, attending the MN State Fair every year, stamping and card-making projects, and baking (truffles, caramel crack & baked beans were what made her famous). In her down time, she could often be found playing Sudoku, doing crosswords, listening to Christian radio, or watching murder mysteries and Bravo TV. She had a passion for travel; it took her around the US and the world. She was truly one-of-a-kind and extraordinary in every way.

She met the love of her life, Jim, while he was coaching her volleyball team. They married on Oct. 4, 1980 and would have celebrated 40 years of marriage this year on their granddaughter’s 2nd birthday. Their adored children, Nathan and Michelle, were born in 1983 and 1985. Michelle married Jake Hawkins in 2017, and gave them their first grandchild, Quinn Diane, in 2018. Diane was most in her element being wife, mom, and grammy. Diane was immensely proud of her family and loved them unconditionally; she leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories.

She is survived by her husband James (Jim) Nolan; son, Nathan Nolan; daughter, Michelle Hawkins; her son-in-law Jake Hawkins; granddaughter Quinn Diane Hawkins; mother Mary Walsh; sisters Fran (Delos Nokleby) Walsh, Teresa (Steve) Dropkin; brother John (Jacque) Walsh; brothers- and sisters-in-law Peter (Mary) Nolan, John (Vicky) Nolan, Steve (Deb) Nolan, Kathy (Richard) King, Margaret Nolan (Richard Shaw), Tom (Patty) Nolan, Dave (JoAnn) Nolan, Jeff (Lynn) Nolan; godchildren Brian Nolan, Laura Collins, Garrett Nolan, Rebecca Nolan; a host of nieces, nephews, other extended family; countless dear friends.

She is preceded in death and has been embraced by her father, Clarence Walsh; father- and mother-in-law, Philip and Lorraine Nolan; angel baby Hawkins.

For reasons still unknown, God wanted her now. He set her free.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September, 10 at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 W. 15th St., Hastings. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September, 9 from 4:00-7:00 pm at Starkson Family life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings and from 9:30-10:30 am on Thursday also at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation in her honor.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is serving the family. Visit hastingsmnfuneral.com to sign the online tribute page and view the memorial video.
 

Leona Ruth was born in Denmark Township on January 25, 1929, to Ferdinand (Fred) and Ruth Ann Pechacek. She was raised on the family farm with her 11 siblings, where her education started in a Denmark Township one room schoolhouse. Leona attended and graduated from Hastings High School in 1946, where she met her future husband, Eli J. Chilson, whom she wed on May 29, 1954.

Besides running a busy household and raising her 8 children, Leona enjoyed years of cabin life, family gatherings and holidays, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities. Leona was quite the card shark, playing in numerous card clubs her entire life. She always returned from bowling league with a smile on her face, proud of her scores. Leona was a thoughtful seamstress, creating graduation quilts, memorial bears and antique dolls as beautiful gifts. Leona was a loving Mother, Grandma, Grammy, GG, and good friend. She had a quick wit, a heart of gold, and a permanent twinkle in her eye. She will be missed by many.

Leona was an active member and volunteer for the Daughters of Isabella, Hastings Senior Center, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, Eli “Chub” Chilson; son, John Chilson; daughter-in-law, Lynette Chilson; sons-in-law Mike Warner and Gary Seibert; and siblings, Ella Hageman, Edward Pechacek, Earl Pechacek, Lawrence Pechacek, Lorraine Cater, Loretta Gorgus, and Walter Pechacek.

Leona is survived by her children, Lynne Seibert, Karen Warner, Roger (Judee) Chilson, Mary (Gary) Riveness, Cynthia (Matt) Finger, Donna Chilson, and Elaine (John) Klimek; daughter-in-law, Ann Chilson; 21 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; siblings, William (LuEtta) Pechacek, Josephine (Norm) George, Dorothy Meyer, and Helen (Vern) Rasmussen; and many nieces and nephews.

The Lord welcomed Leona with loving arms on August 20, 2020.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 31 at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 W. 15th St. Hastings. A visitation will be held on Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings. Interment, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Cemetery. Visit hastingsmnfuneral.com to view the memorial video and sign the online tribute page.
 

Clement "Clem" Meyers, age 76 of Hastings, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday afternoon, August 14, 2020. He bravely battled cancer and Parkinson's disease for ten years. Never once did he complain about the cards that were dealt to him because of his service in the Vietnam War. Clem always maintained his love for family, service, and his humor and smile during this difficult journey. 

Clement Fredrick, the son of Theodore and Margaret (Fox) Meyers, was born on May 21, 1944, in Hastings. Following his graduation from Hasting High School, Clem enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Vancouver. He was very proud of his service to this great nation prior to being Honorably Discharged. On March 15, 1969, Clem was united in marriage to Karen Lucker at Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Hastings. They were blessed with fifty-one years of marriage, two children, Scott and Stacy, and many wonderful memories along the way. After many years of dedication, Clem retired from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in 2005 as Maintenance Supervisor. Most of all, Clem loved his family unconditionally, and cherished every moment spent together. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law, Mihlon and Rose Lucker; and by his brother-in-law, Jerry McNamara. 

Clem is survived by his loving wife, Karen; children, Scott (Carolyn) Meyers and Stacy (Charlie) Fox; granddaughters, Taylor and Jenna whom he adored dearly and brought much joy to his life; grandson, Justin; step grandchildren, Jordan, Eric, and Ashley; siblings, Pat McNamara and Herm (Marlene) Meyers; and by many relatives and friends. 

A Celebration of Clem's Life will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings, with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment with Military Honors provided by VFW Lyle Russell Post 1210 will follow at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Cemetery. 

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., and to a light reception following the interment, all at the funeral home on Wednesday. 

A special thank you to Dr. Hurley at Regions, Dr. Kotiso and Holly at Allina Oncology, Dr. Verner at the VA Medical Centers, and also to Palliative Care and Hospice for all the care and support you gave Clem over the years. 

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings. 

We are glad to be able to have funeral liturgies once again at SEAS Church, but because of current precautions due to the coronavirus, a few things will look differently than before.

1. SEAS is not able to host any kind of visitation during this current stage of reopening. We are open for funeral liturgies only.
2. When you come to a funeral, you will be seated by a porter no earlier than 30 minutes before the funeral. The pews have been roped off throughout the church to ensure proper safe distance of six feet from other households while you are in the sanctuary.
3. Immediate family of the deceased will not walk in the entrance procession but will be seated in the front rows before the liturgy begins. The sprinkling rite, usually taking place in the baptistery, will occur right in front of the altar.
4. Communion will happen at the usual Communion time during Mass. Please maintain six feet of distance between households as you come forward. The priest or other Communion minister will distribute to you through a Plexiglas shield.
5. Please read the obituary before you come. It will give you a good idea of what parts of the funeral day are open to the public and which parts the family will keep private. Each family is different as they protect themselves from this virus and we ask you to be respectful of their wishes. Even if you are not able to attend, any small gesture of sympathy means a lot to the grieving family.
6. Listen to instructions from the porters, funeral directors, and other ministers throughout the liturgy. As at other places in public, we strongly advise you to wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, and maintain an adequate six feet of distance from others.