Ethel Steinle

Ethel Steinle was born September 11, 1916, in Nelson Township, Watonwan County, the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Reimer) Sawatzky. She was united in marriage to Reinhart Steinle on November 22, 1934, at her home north of St. James. The couple farmed on Reinhart's family farm until retiring and moving to Butterfield in 1978. Ethel was a lifelong member of First Mennonite Church where she faithfully worshipped each week and served for many years as pianist and as an active member of the Ladies Mission Circle. She enjoyed crocheting, quilting, gardening, reading, and crossword puzzles. Ethel was known for her baking skills, particularly zweibach and New Year's Cookies. She was an ardent NASCAR fan. She especially loved spending time with her family and grandchildren. Ethel Steinle died Friday, July 9, 2010, at the Pleasant View Good Samaritan Center in St. James at the age of 93 years. She is survived by children- R.J. and wife Audrey Steinle of Butterfield, Marilyn Stoesz of Butterfield, Larry and wife Treva Steinle of St. James, Dan Steinle of Butterfield, Lauren and wife Lynette Steinle of Butterfield, and Tim Steinle of Butterfield; 18 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; sister Catherine Olson of St. James; brother Jake and wife Wanda Sawatzky of Bondurant, IA; and sisters-in-law- Marie Sawatzky of St. James and Lorraine Sawatzky of Madelia. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Reinhart in 2006; granddaughter Cynthia Steinle; great-grandson Gabriel Madson; brothers- Erwin, Harry and Donald Sawatzky; and infant brothers- Albert and Samuel Sawatzky.