Obituaries: March 14, 2025

Anthony J. Brandenburg
Anthony “Tony” James Brandenburg, 54, of Minneapolis, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. A celebration of life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Brandenburg Prairie Foundation, an organization that was close to Anthony’s heart. Touch the Sky Prairie in Luverne was a very spiritual place for him, where he loved to wander and reflect. Donations may be sent to Brandenburg Prairie Foundation, c/o Brandenburg Gallery, 11 E Sheridan St., Ely, MN 55731. Please state Anthony Brandenburg Memorial on your donation. Memorials may also be directed to The Retreat, an organization that is committed to helping people who suffer from substance abuse. Checks can be sent to Charles Vaubel, Financial Manager, The Retreat, 1221 Wayzata Blvd. E, Wayzata, MN 55391. Arrangements are with David Lee Funeral Home in Wayzata.
Born on Nov. 7, 1970, in Duluth, Anthony attended elementary school in Worthington, junior high school in Two Harbors, and high school in Wayzata. He started his professional photography career early. At age 11, he realized that lemonade stands would not be a viable career choice and published his first story, which he wrote and photographed, in National Geographic World magazine. He attended Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) while juggling an illustrious photo career working with magazines such as Time, Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, Glamour, Self and many others. He was co-creator/developer of “365 Things to Avoid in the Twin Cities” and designed over 50 album covers. His designs and campaigns won multiple awards and honors. One of his websites was prominently featured in Graphis magazine as one of the 10 best interactive sites for 2005.
In 2001, he co-founded a full-service communication design firm, BNDH, while continuing to assist his father on various projects including designing books, making movies, web development, and printing fine-art prints for the Brandenburg Gallery. He was a talented musician and was very well-known in the Minneapolis music scene.
Anthony lit up every room with his smile and always knew how to make people laugh. He loved to be reminded that he “looked better with shorter, thinning hair.” We know that he touched many lives, was well-loved, and will be missed by many. Thank you to everyone who was a good friend to Anthony. We are forever grateful for the impact you made on his life.
Anthony is survived by his son, Lindsey Brandenburg of St. Paul; parents, Jim and Judy Brandenburg of Ely and Medina; sister, Heidi Brandenburg (Nels Pierson) of Ely; niece, Olivia Ross; and nephew, Liam Ross.
He was preceded in death by his loving grandparents; and uncle, John Deitering.

Deidra M. Mankus
Deidra Margaret “Deeds” Mankus, 27, of Orr, died on Monday, March 10, 2025, in Hibbing. Deidra would want anyone seeing someone struggling with addiction to please reach out. She craved to be free but lost her battle way too young. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
She is survived by her mother, Gina Mankus of Chisholm and her father, Mark Mankus of Orr; grandfather, Leonard (Lucy) Mankus; sister, Danielle (Dallas) Johnson; brother, Dylan (Kathryn) Mankus; nephews and nieces, Carson, Cyrus, Ava, Layne, Waylon and Blake (mother Katie); the Family Beach Crew; and numerous friends.

Gary A. Novak Sr.
Gary Allen Novak Sr., 82, of Greaney, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, surrounded by family. Per his wishes there will be no services. Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.
He is survived by his brothers, Keith and Beryl; children, Debbie, Lisa, Wade (Lorrie), Clint (Janelle), Gary and Terry (Chris); and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Michele R. Meier
Michele Rena Meier, 62, of Cook, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2025.
There will be a private graveside service held in the spring or summer of 2025. Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook.

Lawrence J. A. Kupka
Lawrence “Larry” James Addison Kupka, 83, of Embarrass, passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at New Perspective Senior Living in Barnum with his family by his side. Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 20 at Argo Cemetery in Babbitt. Pastor Christine Forsythe will officiate. Arrangements are with Range Funeral Home in Hibbing.
He is survived by his daughter, Chris (Scott) Hautala of Hibbing; son, Lance (Katherine) of Hibbing; daughter, Heather (Joe) Tomczak of Eveleth; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Linda (Gary) Typpo and Margaret (Harold) Janke; sister-in-law, Bonnie Olson and her daughters Connie Olson and Shanon (Keith) Urbanski; nieces, Sharon (Gary) Libal and Sandy (Gary) Lemke; sister-in-law, Beverly (Jonathan) Hill; and many other extended family members.

Robert T. Colombo
Robert “Bob” Thomas Colombo, 78, of Brazil, formerly of Ely, passed suddenly on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. Funeral and burial services were held in Brazil. His family is planning a celebration of life to be held this summer in Ely.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Rosalia of Brazil; daughters, Melissa Colombo of Wisconsin and Brittney (Red) Corbin of Colorado; sister, Carolyn (Kent) Halberg of Wisconsin; three grandchildren; two great-grandsons; former spouse, Kathy Grivette; and many wonderful friends.