Inez Rose Eklund

INEZ ROSE EKLUND October 12, 1928 - May 22, 2014 Inez Rose Eklund age 85, a long time Menahga, MN area resident, passed into eternity on Thursday, May 22, 2014 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Park Rapids. Inez was born on October 12, 1928 on her parent's farm near Hewitt, MN to Joseph and Elsie (Viergutz) Piehl. She attended country school near her parent's farm. As a young woman, Inez ventured to Menahga where she gained employment as a waitress. There she met Alvin R. Eklund and the two were married on March 4, 1951. This union was blessed with two children: Cheryl and Jerry. She devoted herself to making a loving home for her husband and children. She was a wonderful cook and baker who will be long remembered for her delicious homemade breads, rhubarb pies and tuna fish casseroles. In addition to caring for her family, Inez also helped with the farm work, assisting with the daily milking chores and looking after their flock of sheep. Later, Inez helped supplement her family's income by working at the Coop-Sampo store in Menahga in a career that spanned over 20 years. Inez loved the out doors especially when she could be working in her yard or garden. She also enjoyed sewing clothes and other items for her family. Inez also cherished traveling throughout the United States. She was a long time member of Bethany Lutheran Church and enjoyed being part of the church's quilting group. Above all, Inez dedicated her life to her family and especially enjoyed getting together with her family for picnics over the summer holidays. She will be lovingly remembered by her two children: Cheryl Brown of Kenosha, WI and Jerry Eklund of Virginia, MN; her three dearly loved grandsons: Bill (Nancy) Hagerman of Clearwater, FL, Kelly Hagerman of Kenosha, WI and Joshua Brown of Kenosha, WI; four great grandchildren; Ashley, Samantha, Jessa and Anthony as well as two nieces: Cindy and Sandy. Inez was preceded in death by her husband in 1987; her parents and three brothers: Bud, Joe and Max. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at the Bethany Lutheran Church west of Menahga, MN with Reverend James M. Hallaway officiating. Tributes will be read by Joshua Brown and Bill Hagerman. The casket bearers will be Grandsons: Joshua Brown and Bill Hagerman; and Nephews: Jeffrey Janke and Keith Janke. Interment will be held at the Bethany Lutheran Cemetery next to the church. Following the service, a luncheon will be hosted by the church. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. To view the video tribute or to leave on line condolences, please visit www.cardinipearson.com.