Phyllis M. Rydell, age 99, of Wayzata, passed away Oct. 4, 2025.
Rydell grew up in Minnetonka and spent the last 15 years of her life in Wayzata. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edmund W. F. Rydell; her parents, Oscar and Esther Lindblom; and her brother, Donald Lindblom.
She is survived by her children, Mark Rydell, Mary Christensen, Gregory Rydell and Lisa Rydell; grandchildren Allison Rydell, Eric Christensen and Jena Squires; and her brother, David Lindblom.
Memorial Service Scheduled for May 15
A memorial service will be held Friday, May 15, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2060 County Road 6 in Long Lake. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. Inurnment will take place at Crystal Lake Cemetery, according to her obituary from Washburn McReavy.
HAMEL – Thomas “Tommy” Taylor, affectionately known as “Grandpa Tommy” passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on July 22, 1943, in Minneapolis, growing up in Wayzata, MN.
Tommy lived life on his own terms, known for getting to the point with his trademark salty language, never worrying whether he might ruffle feathers. Yet somehow, his unfiltered approach gave him a charm that endeared him to everyone. People didn’t just tolerate Tommy’s directness-they treasured it, collecting and sharing “Grandpa Tommy” stories so widely that he became a legend even to those who had never met him.
He served our country in the Army in Vietnam. Most of his career he built houses, decks, and porches. He was a talented carpenter passing his skills onto his two sons who worked several years with him on various jobs. He spent winters snowplowing for Wayzata residents and The Wayzata American Legion.
Tommy approached life with his unique blend of conventional wisdom and unconventional methods. His signature look- a vest with no shirt, and pants if we were lucky-was as memorable as his personality. His favorite shoes were cowboy boots with spurs without a horse in sight.
In his retirement years he spent time on Grandpa Tom bus duty for his grandkids, causing several “Grandpa Tom” stories that may resemble Bad Grandpa. He loved playing cards, especially Saturday cribbage at the Legion and always provided a weekly update on whether he won or lost. He was a loyal fan at grandkid’s sporting events, often providing his off the cuff advice & humor in the stands. He liked his mobile home park referring to his neighbors as friends. He attended weekly donut day and was always available to help any person in need.
His battle with COPD and beating cancer showed his fighting spirit, approaching treatment with his no-nonsense attitude. A true medical anomaly, he survived countless health challenges while still bowling with the same 16-pound ball he’d found decades earlier as a garbage man. His caregiver team recognized him as a “special soul” who did things his way until the end.
Tommy was someone you could always count trustworthy, loyal, and kind beneath the gruff. He made this world better simply by being himself. His love for filterless cigarettes, cribbage games, hockey, and stirring up good-natured trouble will live on in the #GrandpaTommy stories still being shared.
Those who knew Tommy will remember him as someone who truly did it his own way-a colorful soul whose presence left an indelible mark on all those around him.
He is lovingly remembered by his children: Kurt (Cheryl) Jessica (Matt), Shane (Kim), and their Mother Mary. Grandchildren Jake, Addie, Tobin, Faith and Nevaeh; Sister Charlotte (Richard), Brother JD and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Lorraine Taylor, Mother of Kurt Barb Forrest and Daughter Julie Michele.
In Tommy’s honor, tell a story that makes someone laugh, speak your mind with kindness, and remember that life is too short to worry about being fully dressed.
A special thank you to St Croix Hospice that provided excellent care while giving support to the family. Thank you to Hope Center that looked after dad and helped navigate the last year.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 28, 2025, at 06:00 PM visitation (Remembrance Service 6:30pm) Wayzata American Legion, 949 Wayzata Blvd East, Wayzata, MN 55391 Join us after to share a drink and food while sharing a story. Memorials may be given to Mobile Hope; https://www.mobilehopemn.org/ Maple Hill Estates 7900 Maple Hill Road, Corcoran MN 55340 763-416-0945. Online Condolences may be expressed at http://www.swedberg-taylor.com.
Peggy Ann Douglas (nee Burgdorff), an influential Wayzata community leader and dedicated social worker, passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the age of 81.
Born on December 14, 1942, in Madison, Wisconsin, Peggy was the daughter of Harold and Dorothy (Cnare) Burgdorff.
She excelled academically, graduating from West High School in 1961 and earning a degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Peggy began her career as a social worker in Chicago, where she met her husband, John Douglas.
The couple moved to St. Louis for John’s career in the steel industry before settling in Orono, Minnesota, in 1972.
Peggy Douglas & Jim Ramstad. File photo.
Elizabeth Ann joined them in 1976 and Andrew in 1978 through the Children’s Home Society, where Peggy ultimately served as a Member of the Board for over 14 years.
That same year, she became the Executive Director of the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce, significantly impacting the local business community.
She retired briefly to work as a realtor but returned to lead the Chamber from 2006 to 2012.
Peggy was instrumental in the success of community events like the Chilly Open and James J. Hill Days and was named “Wayzata’s Person of the Year” in 2012.
A tireless community volunteer, Peggy was active in the Wayzata Planning Commission, the Rotary Club, and the Junior League.
She was a member of Wayzata Community Church for over 50 years, serving as Head Usher and participating in various committees.
Wayzata Mayor Johanna Mouton issued a statement at a recent City Council meeting, “Peggy was simply the best, aside from being a friendly, warm, and caring person, she was an exceptional leader who served our Planning Commission for the past 6 years, and various other boards, and as a dedicated Wayzata Rotarian. Most notably Peggy played a pivotal role in shaping the Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as president and executive director for many years.”
Peggy was known for her vibrant social life, participating in three book clubs, neighborhood gatherings, and regular walks along Lake Minnetonka.
She was a world traveler, often accompanied by her grandsons, Damion and Winter Douglas, whom she adored.
Peggy is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Douglas, her son, Andrew Douglas, and her grandsons. and was predeceased by her parents and her husband, John.
A Celebration of Life was held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Wayzata Community Church, followed by a reception at Wayzata Country Club.
George Everett Hehl, 72, of Motley, died Friday, September 12, 2014 at Lakewood Health System Care Center Hospice Suite in Staples. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, September 19, 2014 at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples with Father Joe Korf officiating.
George was born September 21, 1941, in Minneapolis, MN, the son of George H. and Alma E. (Balcome) Hehl. He grew up in Wayzata and graduated from Wayzata High School. He furthered his education by taking Architecture courses. For many years he worked in the automotive industry as well as owning and operating Rainbow Construction. He enjoyed working on building and remodeling projects. More recently, George sold RV’s for Hilmerson in Little Falls and Pleasureland in Baxter.
George was first married to Margaret Dunn on June 15, 1963 in Wayzata and they were blessed with two children, Anne and Stephen. Later George married Kathy O’Brien Krause on October 16, 2002 in Brainerd.
George had been a member of the Scandia Valley Lions Club for numerous years and a lifetime member of the Wayzata Historical Society. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, boating and snowmobiling.
He will be missed by his wife, Kathy; his daughter, Anne Hale, of Kirkwood, MO; step-children, Mitchell Kelly, of Santa Rosa, CA, Jesse Krause, of Duluth, and Katlin (Luke) Beckwith, of Sartell; grandchildren, Jessa (Kris) Schmitz, of St. Cloud and Christopher (Lisa) Hehl, of Princeton; and great-grandchildren, Ella Hehl, Matti Hehl, Becca Schmitz, and Kody Schmitz. He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen; parents; and sister Joan Hehl.
Phelps, Doris Marie (Maiser) Age 91 of Minnetonka, passed away November 25, 2011.
Preceded in death by parents, Frank and Flora Maiser and sister, Ethel Wilson (Maiser).
Survived by son, James (Nancy) Phelps; daughter, Peggy (Steve) Gonter; son, Edward (Josie) Phelps, and grandchildren, Carolyn Gonter and Annalise and Thomas Phelps. Doris was born and raised in Waconia. Her childhood love and enjoyment of Lake Waconia drew her to Lake Minnetonka where she was a long time resident.
She was a dedicated loving mother and friend. Doris loved all sports, was an avid golfer, swimmer and a tennis player and was a passionate and accomplished bridge player.
The family wants to thank Bev Miller and Susan Danzeisen for their dedicated and loving care of their mother.
Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Thursday, December 1, at the Church of St Therese, 18323 Minnetonka Blvd, Deephaven. Visitation one hour before Mass.
Interment St. Joseph Cemetery in Waconia.
Memorials preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society .
Graner, James Andreas age 36, of Minnetrista, passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 14, 2011.
James is survived by loving wife, Corinna and daughter Emma; parents, James and Judy of Minnetrista; and sister, Melissa (Rhys) of Minnetrista; along with many other family members and friends.
Funeral service to be held Tuesday October 18 2 PM with visitation starting a 1 PM, at Calvary Lutheran Church of Golden Valley, 7520 Golden Valley Road.
Visitation to be held Monday (TONIGHT), October 17 5 PM – 8 PM at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 E Wayzata Blvd in Wayzata. Private interment.
Anderson, Barbara J. Barbara has finished the final chapter of her life. She passed away on October 4th at the age of 72.
She was predeceased by her husband, Jerry and her son, Steven, her parents, Bill and Betty Meyer and very special twin sister, Beverley.
She is survived by her son, Jerry “Snoop” and Liz Anderson; her grandchildren, Jerry “the King” and Marin Anderson, Keri (Anderson) and Jeremy Pollock and Chase Anderson. She also had 5 great grandchildren, Cole, Sadie, Carter, Floyd and Leo; and many lifelong friends.
She touched many people’s lives and was blessed with an incredible circle of friends and family. Born and lived in Minnesota for much of her life. She graduated from Robbinsdale High School in 1957 and married Jerry in 1959. She raised 2 boys, worked full time and still made time for friends, functions with her husband at the Shrine Temple, the Ladies Auxilliary of the Courage Center plus the Guthrie Theater.
After the untimely passing of her husband and son in 1992 she started a new chapter in her life and moved to the Phoenix valley of Arizona. During that period in her life she enjoyed the warmth of the Arizona sun and the continual visits from family and friends. She had recently come home to see family and friends and finished the final chapter here in Minnesota.
A memorial service will be 4:00 PM, with visitation starting at 3:00 PM on Friday, October 7th at the David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 East Wayzata Blvd in Wayzata.
Memorials can be made to the Animal Humane Society, the Courage Center or donor’s choice.
Patricia A. (Crose) Anderson , age 80, of Pequot Lakes and Plymouth, MN, passed away peacefully Sept. 18.
Pat was born on 6/13/31, in St. Cloud, MN, to Lyle “Choppy” Crose and Fran Lucas Crose. She graduated from St. Cloud Tech in 1949, and went on to St. Cloud State where she met the love of her life, Curt Anderson.
She and Curt married in June, 1953, and moved to Hibbing, MN, where they both began their careers in public education.
After raising her children to school-age, Pat became a teacher for Wayzata Public Schools. She taught for 16 years as both a special education teacher and then a business teacher at Wayzata High School.
Pat’s life was centered on her husband, children and grandchildren, as she created happy, lasting memories for her family. Her hobby was publishing a class newsletter and distributing it to members of her high school class. At the time of her death she had published 39 issues. It was her wish to keep the 260 students from the Tech Class of ’49 together until the very end.
She was a charter member and elder of Plymouth Presbyterian Church. She spent time in her retirement years volunteering at Wayzata High School and Summerwood retirement center. Her favorite spot in the world was their home on Lake Bertha on the Whitefish Chain where many happy memories were made for family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband Curt and grandson Jason.
She is survived by children: Scott (Nancy) Anderson, Bruce (Becky) Anderson, Sue (Ken) Iverson. Grandchildren: Megan (Ed) Dohm, Zachary Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Julie (Peter) Eshenaur, Caitlin Iverson, KC Iverson, Sarah Iverson, Great Grandchildren Ashlyn Dohm and Ethan Eshenaur (due any day), brother Robert (Laverne) Crose and many special cousins, nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held at David Lee Funeral Home in Wayzata on Thursday, September 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. ¬ A private service will be held at the family’s lake home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Wayzata Public Schools Education Foundation or the North Memorial Hospice Residence.
of Maple Plain, passed away on September 16, 2011 at the age of 88.
Howard was born in his family home in Independence. Longtime resident of Maple Plain. Worked in the dairy business for 32 years. Served his country enlisting in the army in 1945, serving as staff sergeant. Member of the American Legion Post 514 for 64 years. Member of the Maple Plain Volunteer Fire Department for many years.
He is survived by; daughter, Katy; son, Brent (Jan); grandsons, Jeff and Jon; sisters, Madelyn Lebovsky of Delano and Carol Strassburg of Maple Plain; many loved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Marion; daughter, Sue; parents, Daniel and Grace; brothers, Loren and Irvin.
Family & friends may visit from 4-8pm Wednesday September 21, at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 East Wayzata Blvd in Wayzata. Private family service will be held.
Ritland, Gregory D. Age 63, of Plymouth, MN. Died September 12, 2011.
Preceded in death by father, Donald Ritland of Austin, MN. Survived by mother, Reva; wife, Linda; daughters, Nicole (Kyle) Kustermann, and Katharine Ritland; three grandchildren; sisters, Marcia, Jane and Janet; several nieces and nephews.
Visitation to be held Sunday Sept. 18 from 4:00-6:00 pm at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 East Wayzata Blvd in Wayzata.
Funeral Service celebrating Greg’s life at 11:00 am with visitation 1 hour prior on Monday Sept. 19, at St. Philip the Deacon Church, 17205 County Road 6 in Plymouth.
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