Lucille Dahlheimer

Lucille Dahlheimer (nee Mathena), age 80, of Alexandria, originally from Osseo, Minnesota passed away on January 27 in her home in Alexandria Township. Lucille was born in Elk River on October 30, 1932 to parents Melvin and Dorothy (Moos) Mathena, the second of seven children, the oldest sister. She grew up on Central Avenue in Osseo, and met her future husband Harvey Dahlheimer there when she was 16. She married Harvey on November 5, 1949, and they began their future together on a farm on the west side of French Lake east of Rogers. The family relocated to Gene?s Barn Road, near Nelson in the spring of 1974, and continued a tradition of dairy farming. Lucille was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, first at St. Vincent de Paul in Osseo, then St. Martin?s in Rogers, and finally at St. Mary?s in Alexandria for the last 40 years of her life. She was a member of Christian Mothers for many years. Lucille traveled when she could, taking many trips with her husband, mother, sisters, and friends; she managed visits to 49 states, the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico, and to Europe. She and Harvey continued to enjoy numerous cruises, bus and car trips throughout the country after their children were grown. Work and family were the core of Lucille and Harvey?s life. She was a super hostess, managed a large garden, canned and froze foods for use during the year; supported her husband in all that he did in the fields and the community; and enjoyed and cared for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. To the end, the little ones energized and cheered her. Lucille is survived by her loving children Debra Haessly of Minneapolis, Jean (Steve) Milostan of Champlin, Jeff (Dana) of Champlin, Joel (Kim) of Alexandria, Dan (Angelina) of Ankeny IA, and Jerry (Lynne) of Alexandria; 17 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; and 4 siblings, Earl, Bill, Ruth and Kathy. Lucille was preceded in death by her dear love and companion, Harvey, earlier in the year; siblings David Mathena and Marie Lutgen; a son Michael; and a grandson Michael. She will be loved and remembered forever, as a loving and supportive wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. The family expresses heartfelt gratefulness to Hospice of Douglas County for their knowledge, attentive care, and many kindnesses throughout her illness. Memorial gifts to Douglas County Hospice are preferred.