Florence Tvrdik

Florence Kathryn Koudela was born December 31, 1922 in Lake Mary Township, the daughter of Joseph and Rose (Benesh) Koudela. Florence was raised in Lake Mary Township where she attended country school. Following her schooling she began work at the Garden Center in Alexandria. On November 3, 1948 Florence was joined in marriage to Henry Tvrdik at St. Mary?s Church in Alexandria. The couple made their home in Alexandria. They were blessed with five children. In 1956 Florence and her family moved out of town to their house at Highway 27, slowly the town has been moving back toward them. The couple spent fifty-six wonderful years together until Henry?s death in 2005. Florence enjoyed her independence and continued living in her home until her death. Florence kept several large flower and vegetable gardens. She also raised chickens ands ducks. Florence was an excellent cook and baker. She loved cooking for her family. Her grandchildren loved her sour cream gravy & dumplings. Florence baked many desserts and pies. She was proud of her fine kolaches and her family loved them. Florence?s heritage was important to her. She was able to speak and understand the Bohemian language. Her parents were full-blooded Bohemian as was her husband. She has passed this proud heritage on to her children. Florence was a good bowler and enjoyed bowling in a mixed league. Florence and Henry liked to travel the United States, especially Florida, Arizona and Nevada. The couple were also in several card clubs and liked to play whist. Florence loved playing games and cards with her grandchildren and she loved to win those games. On Saturday, May 4, 2013 Florence died at the age of ninety years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Tvrdik; and two sisters, Clara Shermak and Rosie Koudela. Florence is survived by her children, Kenneth Tvrdik and wife, Gretchen, of Alexandria, Kathleen Baudrau and husband, Michael, of Alexandria, Keith Tvrdik of Alexandria Kevin Tvrdik and wife, Karen, of Alexandria and Karen Gajeski and husband, Dennis, of St. Paul, MN; eleven grandchildren, Bridget, Denise, David, Darla, Danielle, Diana, Jennifer, Jeremy, JoAnn, Andrew and Alexandra; and fifteen great grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, May 4, 2013 at the Church of St. Mary in Alexandria. Reverend Father Mark Ostendorf was the celebrant. Entombment followed in the church cemetery. Casket bearers included Jeremy Tvrdik, Jennifer Beran, David Hjelm, Denise Hjelm, Andrew Gajeski and Alexandra Gajeski. Bridget Tvrdik was an honorary casket bearer. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home.