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Vivian M. Westphal Obituary – 9/16/09


Vivian Mabel Westphal (Starke), age 75, of Howard Lake, died Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2009.

She was born Feb. 22, 1934, in Mankato, the daughter of Emil and Wilhelmenia Starke (Bublitz). Vivian was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nicollet, MN. She attended and graduated school in Nicollet.

Vivian married Donald H. Westphal Sept. 25, 1951, at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Nicollet. They moved to Howard Lake in 1954.

As a member of St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake, Vivian was very active as a Sunday school teacher for many years, and was also involved with the Ladies Aid, Evangelism Committee, Altar Committee and Bible studies.

Vivian worked as a teacher’s aide in the Howard Lake-Waverly Elementary Schools for 30 years, retiring in 1997. She enjoyed working with students.

Vivian suffered many health problems in recent years. She enjoyed when she could attend church, and also the many visits of family, friends and pastors. She remained gracious in her illnesses, and will be remembered by many for her smile.

Vivian is survived by her devoted husband, Donald, and would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary this month.

She is also survived by a daughter, Deborah (David) Entner of Moose Lake; sons Steven (Lynette) of Buffalo, and Robert (Kelly) of Savage; grandchildren Kristine, Paul, Philip, Clara, Trenton, Traci, Katie, Lauren and Mallory; great-grandchildren Noah, Lucy, Fraya and Aiden; and three sisters; one brother; sisters-in-law; brothers-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; one sister; and two brothers.

A celebration of Vivian’s life took place Saturday, Sept. 19 at the St. James Lutheran Church of Howard Lake with the Revs. Martin Schoenfeld and Michael Nirva presiding. Music was provided by Nancy Butterfass and the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. Interment was at the Howard Lake City Cemetery.

Arrangements were by the Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home in Howard Lake.

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