Russell D Hornke

Russell Duane was born March 18, 1929 to Frank and Bertha (Weise) Hornke at the family farm near Blue Earth. He enjoyed growing up and working on his parent’s farm before joining the Army in 1954. After serving his country proudly for two years, he returned to marry the love of his life, Lois Stensland. Together they raised three children and farmed outside of Blue Earth. Lois passed away in 2008.

Russ was a kind, generous and outgoing man. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, fishing trips up North, and doing just about anything outdoors. He could often be found at the fence line chatting it up with a neighbor. While he appreciated the simpler things in life, he was always there to lend a hand, whether it was helping Lois put her cakes together or helping with the Trinity food stand at the county fair. He was also employed at Arends sale yard for many years as well as being a long-time member of the American Legion.

Left to cherish his memory are his children; Deb (Jeff) Germer of Rochester, Kayla (Michael Brooks) Erdmann of Kasson and Ray Hornke of Blue Earth; grandchildren, Ryan Erdmann, Brady (fiancé Jessica Kelley) Erdmann and Sarah Germer; sister Irene (Skip) Meyers and sisters-in-law Dorothy Stensland and Marilyn Stensland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lois, sister Delores Farrow, brother Donald Hornke, sisters-in-law Marvis and Jean Stensland, and brothers-in-law Dave Farrow, Orville, George, Donald and Ronald Stensland.