Obituaries: March 27, 2026

Patricia Koski
Patricia J. Koski, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Carefree Living in Ely. Visitation is at 10 a.m. followed by Memorial Mass at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Ely with the Pastor Charles Friebohle as celebrant. Luncheon to follow in the church hall after the inurnment. Services by Kerntz Funeral Home.
Pat was born in Ely on June 11, 1935, the daughter of John (Howie) and Julia (Lil) Sayovitz. She was a graduate of Ely Memorial High School. Her first job was at Zup’s store.  She worked for many years at the clinic(s) in Ely. Pat and Harold Koski were married on June 14, 1958. Pat and Harold were the first couple married in the current St. Anthony’s Church, and very proud of that fact.  
Pat was respected and involved in the community. She served on the school board, where she became the board chairperson. Pat is a past president of the Ely-Winton Historical Society and the Slovenian Union of America. She served as an election judge and was involved in many other Ely organizations.
As a lifelong member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Pat sang in the choir, served on the parish council and was a trustee for many years. She taught religious education, served as a cantor, lector, and Eucharistic minister. In addition to the church choir, she sang with the Ely Slovenian Chorus.
Pat loved to cook. She was a frequent guest cook on Juli Kellner’s WDSE Cooks. She made sure that she had an extra pan or two to share with the staff and film crew. Pat made everything from scratch, including her own noodles. She enjoyed sharing her cooking and baking with family and friends.
Pat is survived by her son Michael (Judy) of Golden Valley; daughter Sally (David Kess) of Ely, sister-in-law Nancy (John) Sayovitz of Marietta, GA; grandchildren Phil (Laura) Koski, Erin (Will) Schlotz, and Paul (Sarah Eiesland) Koski. Pat is survived by five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her son John on Sept. 27, 2002, husband Harold on Jan. 16, 2006, brother John on March 14, 2016, and her parents.

Joan Larson
Joan Baxter Larson, 94, of Burntside Lake-Ely, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026. There will be a celebration of life at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 11 at LedgeRock Community Church in Ely. Refreshments and a time of visiting will follow the service. Memorials can be directed to LedgeRock Community Church, Rock Ridge Christian Camp, or the Ely Music and Drama Club.
She is survived by her sons, Jonathan (Suzanne), Richard (Carol) and Steven (Sara); grandchildren, Jennie (Josh) Dahl, James (Brittany) Larson, Matthew (Paula) Larson, Peter (Whitney) Larson, Michael (Corissa) Larson, Emily (James) Caro, Elliotte (Daniel) Walter, Danielle (Christopher) Baillargeon and granddaughter-in-law, Elizabeth Larson; 26 great-grandchildren; brother, Richard (Carolee) Baxter; and many nieces and nephews.

Verne L. Olson
Verne L. Olson, 93, of Bearville Township, and a lifelong resident of the Cook area, passed away at his home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Per his wishes, cremation has taken place at Andrews-Libbey Funeral Home in Grand Rapids. His ashes will be interred at the Bearville Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be sent to Tracy Olson, 668 Forest Road, Big Lake, MN 55309.
He is survived by his son, Gerry; daughter, Tracy; grandchildren, Leeanna Olson, Kimberly Anderson and Nichole Heino; great-grandchildren, Soren Flynn Heino and Felix Thomas Heino; sister, Lynda; and several nieces and nephews.