Marjorie Markwardt
Marjorie “Marj” Markwardt, 94, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, at Edgewood Assisted Living in Virginia. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no funeral service. Many thanks to the staff at Edgewood and Caring Edge Hospice for the wonderful care she received.
Though her passing brings sorrow, the family is grateful for the precious time they shared. May her memory be a blessing, and may her spirit live on in all who knew and loved her. Family services were provided by Bauman-Cron, a Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia.
Marj was born on April 23, 1931, in Hibbing, to Maurice and Marie Bradt. She grew up in Hibbing and graduated from Hibbing High School. She attended Kansas State University, graduating with a teaching degree. Marj was a member of the Wildcat Fencing Club, winning the women’s division of the Mayor’s Cup tournament. After graduation, she taught English in Deer River, where she met her future husband, Don. After they were married, she taught school in Houghton, Mich., while Don attended school. In 1958 they moved to Hoyt Lakes, where they raised their family and lived for 65 years.
Music, reading, and spending time outdoors were Marj’s passions. She was an organist at Trinity United Methodist Church for over 60 years and participated in local music groups. She was a member of the Hoyt Lakes Library Board as well as a member of the American Association of University Women. Marj also relished the time she spent with Don at their cabin, enjoying the northwoods.
Marj is survived by her children, David (Nancy) of Ely, Susan (Mike) of Plymouth and Paul (Annie) of Farmington; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don; and sisters, Lorraine and Helen.

Gregory Antus
Gregory “Greg” Antus, 78, of Alango, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Funeral services were held on Saturday, Dec. 27. Military honors were accorded by the Cook VFW Post 1757 Honor Guard and the Orr American Legion Post 480 Honor Guard. Arrangements were with Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.
Greg was born on Nov. 7, 1947, in Cloquet, to Gerard “Jerry” and Carol Anderson Antus. He was a graduate of Virginia High School in Virginia.
From an early age, Greg developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a lifelong love of northern Minnesota. He treasured time spent at his Sundeen great-grandparents’ home in Silverdale, exploring the woods, as well as summers in Cook with his grandparents, Carl O. “Kelly” and Winnie Johnson. These early years shaped his enduring respect for nature, self-reliance, and simple joys. As a young man, he enjoyed riding bikes with friends to Peterson’s Landing for a swim and roaming the countryside, always happiest outdoors.
Hunting season was especially dear to Greg, particularly duck, grouse, and deer season. His many interests reflected his love of the land and adventure and included hunting, fishing, trapping, shooting, cross-country skiing, camping, canoe trips, and small airplanes. He held a special fondness for time spent at his cabin on Elephant Lake and deeply loved his home in Alango Township, where he shared countless meaningful moments with his family.
Greg was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He served as a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division and the 23rd Infantry Division (Americal Division), and was later assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 8th Artillery, where he worked with an eight -inch howitzer battalion. He was honorably discharged in July 1970, a service he carried with quiet pride throughout his life.
Greg and Arline Filbert were married 50 years ago, and recently celebrated their anniversary surrounded by family at a joyful gathering hosted by their children. Family was the center of Greg’s life. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather who cherished time with his children and grandchildren above all else. Together, Greg and Arline opened their hearts and home as foster parents for nearly 30 years, welcoming more than 100 children, from newborns to young adults, offering stability, care and love during critical moments in their lives.
A dedicated and hardworking provider, Greg spent many years employed as a machinist with the DWP Railroad and later worked as a machine operator for Potlatch/Ainsworth in Cook. He took pride in his work and in providing for those he loved.
Greg was a man of deep and steady faith. His church, personal faith, and nightly reading of scripture were central to his life. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 1757 in Cook and the Disabled American Veterans. Arline often affectionately teased Greg about being a “wanna-be Finn,” as he possessed a great deal of sisu - quiet strength, perseverance and resilience. Friends and family came to rely on his daily text messages, which offered encouragement and reassurance, especially during difficult times. Many remember Greg as someone who consistently lifted others up with kindness, faith, and quiet wisdom.
Greg will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his service to his country, his faith, and his steady, encouraging presence in the lives of all who knew him.
Greg is survived by his loving wife, Arline; children, Kurt (Jenny) Stromlund, Sarah (Henry Trivino) Antus, Rachel (George) Aurand, Josh (Candi) Antus and Chester Antus; grandchildren, Nicholas Stromlund, Gabe Trivino, Danika DuMarce, Kai DuMarce and Ilee Antus; sister, Geraldine (Jon) Pylka; brother, Carl Antus; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and a nephew.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerard Steven Antus and Carol Jean Antus; grandparents, Stephen and Roseanne Antus; grandparents, Carl O. “Kelly” and Winifred “Winnie” Johnson; parents-in-law, Art and Ille Filbert; brother and sister-in-law, Duane and Georgene Johnson.

John P. Rova
John Paul Rova, 85, originally of Ely, died on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025. A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at Our Saviour’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hastings at 1 p.m. with visitation at noon and a dessert reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be given to Essentia Hospice, Solvay House or Lutheran World Relief.
John was born on Aug. 20, 1940, in Ely, to Nestor and Julia Rova. He was raised within the Finnish community in Ely, graduating in 1958. After a year at Vermilion College, John entered the University of Minnesota’s School of Architecture. At the U of M, John met his life’s love, Marion Warner; they were married for 62 years. He followed his life’s calling of architecture until his 78th year.
John and Marion were true partners in life. Sharing a love for food, music, travel and most importantly their family. John was a caring father to his three sons, Timo, Joel and Jonathan. He was patient and kind, wise and loving. His seven grandchildren loved him and his caring ways. He loved spending time with his family at the cabin built by his father on Burntside Lake, where he taught them all the essence of sauna.
John’s architectural career spanned over fifty years. Notable projects include the St. Paul Civic Center, Giants Ridge, restoration and renovation at Notre Dame, West Point, Fort Snelling, the Governor’s mansion, the State Theater, the Brown County Museum and the Winona courthouses, as well as projects in California and Okinawa, Japan.
John was a singer and a watercolorist. He sang in many choirs, including the Plymouth Music Series and the Augsburg Centennial Singers. His sublime paintings captured the essence of his travels and the places he loved. They are treasured by his family. John was involved in the Finnish-American community in Minnesota and was very proud of that heritage. His deeply held faith in Jesus was the source of his loving and forgiving ways.
John is survived by his wife, Marion; sons, Timo (Nancy), Joel (Emily), Jonathan (Nancy); grandchildren, Annela and Reese (Ilmari and Berom), Leif (Brynn) and Suvi Rova, Nestor and Johan Rova-Hegener, Paavo and Tuuli Rova; sister, Judy (Arlen) Olson; sister-in-law, Jane Rova; numerous nieces and nephews; and those whom John loved as sons and daughters.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Nestor and Julia; brothers and sister-in-law, Bill and Bunny Rova and Broco Rova.

Lucia J. Snodgrass
Lucia “Lu” Jayne Zollar Johnson Snodgrass, 66, a cherished individual whose legacy is marked by her loving nature, generosity and selflessness, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, at her home in Eveleth due to medical reasons. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Babbitt. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Father Charles Friebohle is officiating. Arrangements are with Range Funeral Home of Virginia.
Born on July 3, 1959, in the quaint town of Soudan, Lucia, or “Lu” as she was affectionately known, embarked on a life journey that would touch the hearts of many. She was a beacon of unwavering strength and care, whose vibrant spirit and compassion knew no bounds. Lucia’s life was one of dedication and service, both to her family and her community.
A proud graduate of JFK High School in 1977, Lu continued her education and obtained an AA Degree in Business from Vermilion College. Her professional life was characterized by her exceptional clerical and secretarial skills, and she proudly concluded her career upon retiring from AEOA Arrowhead Transit on April 24, 2025.
Additionally, for 52 years, she served as the organ pianist at St. Pius X Catholic Church, starting from the age of 14. She later extended her talents and commitment to the Presbyterian church in Babbitt, where she also took on the roles of member, treasurer and piano player. Lu’s faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life’s challenges and joys.
Her interests were a reflection of the beauty and serenity she cultivated around her. Lu’s favorite color was blue, and she loved hummingbirds. Her hobbies consisted of gardening, crocheting/knitting, spending quality time with loved ones, and always lending a helping hand to anyone in need. She was one in a million with her strength, love, care and compassion. She made the room light up and, of course, always kept it tidy and clean. She always had one more thing to do and you couldn’t slow her down. She was everyone’s everything; she was the rock. In the words of her favorite band, Bon Jovi, she was always “Living on a Prayer.”
She leaves behind a legacy of love through her life partner, Howard Parkhurst; four children, Jeremiah (Lana-Jo) Johnson, Jessica Johnson (Chris), Joseph Johnson (Janelle) and Julia Johnson; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; four siblings; many nieces and nephews; and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Crescence (Pat Chiabotti) and Jack Zollar.

John K. Mausolf
John “Jack” K. Mausolf, 90, of Lake Vermilion-Tower, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, at the Mission Valley Nursing and Transitional Care Center in Mission, Texas. A celebration of life will be held in the spring. Arrangements are with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.
He is survived by his wife, Lois; children, Colleen (Mike) Sacchetti, Tom (Sherri) Mausolf, Brenda (Tom) Foosness, Laurie Olson, Gary (Cynde) Mausolf; Joe (Kerstin) Krause, Sue (Greg) Plagemann and Kathy (Brad) Bodie; 18 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jerome A. Klun
Jerome “Jerry” Anthony Klun, 86, of Clarksburg, Md., originally of Ely, passed away on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, in Silver Spring, Md. The family will announce memorial service arrangements at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Dementia Society of America.
He is survived by his sister, Geraldine Petrich; brothers, Robert T. Klun, Thomas P. Klun and David J. Klun, and their families; wife, Harriet; stepchildren, Dr. A. Gregory Rosenfeld (Priscilla B.) and Karen Rosenfeld-Dean; former wife, Phyllis R. Klun, the mother of his children; sons, Curt A. Klun (Amy E.) and Eric L. Klun (Aida M.); daughter, Toinette M. Culp (Elbert L.); six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; extended family; and dear friends.

Renee M. Powers
Renee Marie Johnson Roethler Powers, 62, formerly of Cook, peacefully passed away on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
She is survived by her husband, Jim Powers; daughters, Shannon (Justin) and Michelle; son, Derek; stepdaughter, Madeline (Zach); stepson, Niles; brothers, Pete Johnson (Penny) and Jeff Johnson (Nena); sister, Rhonda Taylor (Travis); grandchildren, Issac, Austin, Alexa, Jordan, Mahlia, Myles, Malachi, Tayler, Silus, Oliver, Oden and Eden; numerous nieces and nephews; and cat, Uno.

Scott D. Olson
Scott Douglas Olson, 50, of Ely, passed away at his residence on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Ely with visitation one hour prior. Lunch will be served after the service. Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home in Ely.
He is survived by his wife, Angela Johnson Olson; children, Luke (Jacy) and Lauren Olson; parents, Mark and Margie Olson; brother, Brian Olson; father-in-law, Curt Johnson; mother-in-law, Linda Johnson; brothers-in-law, Phil and Bryan (Marcella) Johnson; grandparents, Robert and Patricia Olson; godparents, Chris and Denise Norman; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Donald Fowler
Donald “Archie” Fowler, 74, of Lake Vermilion-Tower, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, at his home. Funeral arrangements are pending with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.

John S. Bergman
John S. Bergman, 87, of Cook, died on Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at his home. Funeral arrangements are pending with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.

Shelley M. Strong
Shelley Mae Strong, 63, of Nett Lake, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. A wake will be held on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, starting at 5 p.m. and funeral services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m., both at the Bois Forte Government and Services Center. Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.
She is survived by her parents, Eileen and Kenny Barney, and Father David (Guy) Connor; children, Brent (Danelle) Villebrun, Ashley Goodsky and Amanda Quoetone; brothers, Kenny Villebrun and Michael (Suzy) Villebrun; numerous grandchildren; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. 

Cheryl Stenvik
Cheryl Stenvik, 60, of Blaine, originally of Ely, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, following a courageous year-long battle with cancer. A memorial service was held on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at Washburn-McReavy Shoreview Chapel. Interment will take place at the Ely Cemetery, with a celebration of life in Spring 2026.
She is survived by her children, Jordan (Kelley) Grahek, Jake Grahek and Ryan Grahek, who were the pride and joy of her life; treasured grandsons, Henry, Jack and Luke Grahek; siblings, Owen Stenvik, Mark (David & AJ) Stenvik, Elissa (Amir Almog) Lindsoe and Ralph (Zena) Stenvik; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Irene McEntyre
Irene Flynn McEntyre, 93, of Ely, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at Boundary Waters Care Center. A celebration of life will be planned for Labor Day weekend in 2026. Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.
She is survived by her children, Laurie McEntyre, Ed McEntyre, Kathy (Brian) Kainz, Michelle McEntyre and Stu (Jeanne) McEntyre; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Cheryl A. Aho
Cheryl Arlene Pike Aho, 82, of Babbitt, passed away on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at her home. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at the Assembly of God Church in Babbitt, with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at a later date in Birch Lake Cemetery. Arrangements are with Landmark Funeral Home in Virginia.
She is survived by her husband, LeRoy; children, Pat (Jean) Tuomala, John (Gina) Tuomala, Dave (Lori) Tuomala and Matt (Carri) Tuomala; stepchildren, Todd (Becky) Aho, Tim (Charrise) Aho, Terry Aho and Jill Aho; 18 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.