Harold Podolske, 79

Harold Lawrence Podolske, 79, died March 18, 2013 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND, having spent the last couple of years in ill health.

Harold was born October 27, 1933 in Rochester, the son of Frederick and Alma (Grutzmacher) Podolske. He graduated from Rochester High School in May of 1951. Harold was employed by the Department of Agriculture for two years prior to being drafted to serve his country. Harold spent two years in the U.S. Army based in Fort Hood, Texas as a radio operator.

After his service, he enrolled and graduated from Mankato State Teacher’s College in March of 1959. During this time he met and was married to Celesta Ewy on August 24, 1957. He taught Industrial Arts at Osakis for eight years.

Harold and Celesta moved to Alexandria in September of 1967. Harold joined American Family Insurance in June of 1967, where he was an agent for 27 years. While in Alexandria, the family was active in the First Congregational United Church of Christ, where Harold was a deacon and trustee. He also served on various other committees.

Harold is survived by his wife of 55 years, Celesta, of Alexandria; daughter, Lisa (Terry) Hill of Amery, WI, and son, Jon (Jennifer) of Monticello; grandchildren, Kashia and Kory Hill, and Emily Podolske; brothers, Richard Podolske and Charles Podolske; and sister, Margaret Nygaard.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Donald Podolske; and brother-in-law, Truman Nygaard.

A memorial service was held Friday, March 22 at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Alexandria with the Rev. Scott Keehn officiating. Diane Alveshere and Jennifer Podolske provided the music. The Dart Ball Team and The Tuesday Men’s Coffee Group served as honorary urn bearers. Military honors were performed by the Alexandria American Legion Post 87, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 936 and the Minnesota National Guard Honors. Inurnment will be held in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery Camp Ripley later this year.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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