Think about where you carry a backpack, hoist a child, or shoulder a heavy load. Our backs and shoulders are remarkably well designed for carrying—and when life feels heavy, many of us brace in those same places. Sometimes the load is quite literal. Forty hours leaning toward a computer can strain a body that wasn’t designed to work that way. Better ergonomics, movement, or … [Read more...]
I decided to preplan for my funeral. What’s the best way to get started?
You did the hardest thing already: You have made the decision to pre-plan. Believe it or not, that really is the biggest decision. I would tell you to start by gathering information. Whether you visit our Planning Ahead page on our website, or another funeral homes, you should be able to find checklists or articles that can help. We actually have a free preplanning checklist … [Read more...]
Should I buy a warranty (Vehicle service contract)?
When I first got into the car business 12 years ago, I would have told you, “Don’t buy a VSC. I think it’s a waste of money.” But after 12 years in this business, I’ve changed my mind. I’ve seen repair costs and shop labor rates increase dramatically. When something major goes wrong with a vehicle, especially an engine or transmission, it doesn’t take long to have a … [Read more...]
Get Your Plumbing Ready for Cold Weather
September is a great time to start getting your plumbing ready for colder weather. Taking care of a few things now can help prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs later. Disconnect garden hoses and check outside faucets for leaks or damage. If you have water lines in a garage, crawl space, or other unheated area, make sure they are properly insulated and protected from … [Read more...]
Why should I have someone deliver salt for my water softener?
I hear this question a lot. Most people assume salt delivery is simply about not having to pick up and carry those heavy bags of salt. While that’s definitely a nice benefit, I think the real value goes beyond convenience. Whenever we deliver salt, we also take a few minutes to check over your water softener. We’ll make sure the clock is set correctly, look for any leaks, … [Read more...]
Should I advertise on the radio?
Nearly everyone listens to music or podcasts at work, at home or during their commute. The challenge with advertising on radio is that there are so many options to choose from. For myself, I listen to Pandora at home and at the office. While driving, I often listen to one of three FM radio stations depending on my mood that day. Radio and streaming services like … [Read more...]
Roger Rasmussen
Roger Rasmussen, age 83, of Wykoff, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Gundersen Harmony Care Center in Harmony, Minnesota. Roger Keith Rasmussen was born on April 28, 1943, in Otranto, Iowa, to Alvin and Edith (Klusmeier) Rasmussen. Roger graduated from Grand Meadow High School in 1961. He worked for Bicknese Elevator in Wykoff for 42 years, then he worked … [Read more...]
Betty Lou Schmidt
Funeral service for Betty Lou Schmidt will be held 11 A.M. Monday, October 12, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wykoff, with Rev. Kay Wold officiating. Burial will take place in the Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church and will continue for one hour prior to the service on Monday. Betty Lou (Lenz) … [Read more...]
Ardell Stanley Johnson
Ardell Stanley Johnson, 88, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 2, 2026. Ardell was born to Sidney and Alma Johnson in Whalan, Minnesota, on August 30, 1938. Ardell had one sister, Alice Cavanaugh. Ardell grew up in Whalan and graduated from Lanesboro High School in 1956. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on September 5, 1957. He received an … [Read more...]
Larry V. Laugen
September 4, 1935 - September 5, 2026 Larry V. Laugen was born to Edwin C. and Clara J. Laugen (Foss) on September 4, 1935, in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He grew up in Harmony, Minnesota, and graduated from Harmony High School in 1953. After a semester at Luther College, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He spent two of his three years in the army, serving in Germany. After release … [Read more...]