Frank E. Diekmann

Frank E. Diekmann, 88, Beardsley, MN, died Thursday, November 26, 2009, at the Holy Trinity Hospital in Graceville, MN.         Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, November 30, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Beardsley with Father David Breu officiating. Music was provided by organist Janet Kellen and vocalists Sue Sykora and Stacey Borgheiinck.         Burial was in the St. Mary's Cemetery, Beardsley. Military honors were provided by the August Altheide American Legion Post 302 of Beardsley. Honorary pallbearers were Frank's grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Active pallbearers were Gordon DeSpiegler, Al Retka, Joe Reinart, Greg Reinart, Dale Sykora, and Bill Gibson.         Visitation was Sunday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. followed by a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Beardsley.        Frank Edwin Diekmann was born July 17, 1921, in Arthur Township, Traverse County, MN, to Joseph and Helena (Leisdon) Diekmann. He attended Traverse County Country School District 31 through the eighth grade.         Frank served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1944 to 1946. He earned the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Occupation Medal – Japan, the Victory Medal, two Overseas Service Bars and the Good Conduct Medal. After returning to the States, he farmed with his folks and brothers. In 1957, Frank went to Two Harbors and worked for one year on the railroad.         On December 30, 1958, Frank married Amelia Dietz in Dickinson, ND. He also gained three stepdaughters, Marlene, Elaine and Antonia. They lived near Beardsley where they continued to farm. In 1981, they retired and moved into Beardsley. Amelia passed away January 16, 2005.         Frank served as a director of the Buffalo Ridge Bank, a director of the Beardsley Farmers Elevator, and a clerk for the District 31 school board. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, August Altheide American Legion Post 302 of Beardsley, a life member of the Fort Sisseton VFW Post 3342, and the Town and Country Club.         Frank enjoyed playing cards, fishing, visiting and spending time with his family. He also loved playing Santa Claus in the Beardsley area for many years.         Survivors include three stepdaughters, Marlene Deutsch of Beardsley, Elaine (Wilbur) Lemmon and Antonia (Michael) Hoffman of Becker, MN, sister-in-law, Connie Diekmann of Beardsley; 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.        Frank was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Amelia Diekmann; son-in-law, Alois Deutsch, Jr.; granddaughters, Jolene and Arlene Lemmon; brothers and sisters, Bernard Diekmann, Theresa Sykora, Katherine Gibson, Conrad Diekmann, Joseph Diekmann, Philomena Reinart, and Helen Berning.