Hilarius Haala

Hilarius Larry John Haala was born December 11, 1927 in Stark Township, the son of John and Mini (Seidl) Haala. He attended St. Mary's School Catholic School in Sleepy Eye, MN. Larry was united in marriage to Elaine Windschitl on April 17, 1950 in Leavenworth. The couple farmed in Stark Township for 40 years and moved into Sleepy Eye in 1990. The couple celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this past year. Larry worked at Kraft Foods for 10 years, Gedney for several years, the Herald Dispatch, and was the grounds keeper at Schoenstatt Sisters of St. Mary. Larry was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Sleepy Eye, 3rd and 4th degree Knights of Columbus, and a member of the Eagles Club, serving as president. Larry enjoyed woodworking as Haala Hobby Farm, bowling league, hunting, fishing, the Minnesota Twins Vikings, his dog Tina and horses. Most of all, Larry loved to be with his family. Larry died on Friday, September 9, 2005 at his home in Sleepy Eye at the age of 77 years. He is survived by his wife - Elaine Haala of Sleepy Eye; children - Sandy Langbehn and special friend - Dale Bergstrom of Annandale, Charles Haala and wife Lorrie of Mankato, JoAnn Woessner and husband Mark of Eden Prairie, and Jon Haala and wife Sue of Manitowoc, WI; 10 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; sisters - Frieda Sellner of Sleepy Eye, Eleanor Kretsch of New Ulm, and Lillian Stimpert and husband Merton of Sleepy Eye. He is preceded in death by his parents - John and Mini Haala; daughter - Mary Beth; son-in-law - John Langbehn; brother - Leo; and sister - Adeline Tauer.