Jerome kempenich

Jerome "Jerry" Kempenich, age 74, of Randall died Monday, September 18, 2006 at home, after a long battle with cancer, surrounded by his family. Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, September 21, 11:00 am, at St. James Catholic Church in Randall, with Reverend Fathers Al Quade and Leo Moenkedick concelebrating. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 20, from 5-8 pm, at the Randall Funeral Home, and at church during the hour prior to services. Interment will be at the St. James Parish Cemetery.
Jerome Nicholas Kempenich was born September 20, 1931 at home on the family farm in Parker Township, to Joseph and Francis (Simones) Kempenich. After finishing school he worked on the family farm. He was united in marriage to Cecilia Andres at St. James Catholic Church in Randall on May 5, 1953. Jerry served in the US Army from 1953-1955. Following his honorable discharge, he and Cecilia returned to the family farm, which they operated until his "retirement" three years ago. Jerry loved the farm and loved being outside, and enjoyed helping his son with farm work. He was a lifelong member of St. James Catholic Church, having been baptized, confirmed, married, and, now, buried there. He was a member of the Randall VFW, Post 9073. He loved to play cards, hunt, and spend time with his family.

Jerry will be deeply missed by Cecilia, his wife of 53 years; his children, Bob (Cheryl) Kempenich, New York Mills; Joe (Chris) Kempenich, Menaga; John (Bev) Kempenich, Randall; JoAnne (Dave) Rausch, Long Prairie; Mary (Perry) Dykes, Byron; Larry Kempenich, Hutchinson; Carol (Todd) Conrad, Maple Grove; and Joyce (Brian) Ringwelski, Des Moines, IA; 23 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; his sisters, Sr. Fran Kempenich, OFS, and Gert (George) Thesing; and his brother, Jim (Pat) Kempenich. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Francis; his daughter, Barb Kestner; his sisters, Marguerite Larson, and Sr. Veronica Kempenich, OFS; and brothers, Leroy, George, Joe, and Ray.