Blanche Havel Zellmer, 99-3/4

Blanche Havel Zellmer, age 99-3/4, passed away Thursday, November 11, 2021, at The Emeralds of Faribault. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montgomery with Father George Grafsky officiating.

Celebration of Life will follow from noon to 3 p.m. at the American Legion Club in Montgomery. Private family burial will be held in the St. John Catholic Cemetery in Montgomery. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to St. John’s Cemetery.

Blanche was born to John and Anna (Prchal) Havel on February 23, 1922, at their home in Montgomery. She went to Sherman Catholic School and graduated from Montgomery High School. Blanche was united in marriage to Louis E. Zellmer in 1944 at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montgomery and later divorced.

She worked at various places throughout her life including Lakeside Toy, Plastic factory, McQuay's, as a bus driver, and a musician.

Blanche was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Le Sueur County Historical Society, The Czech Singers, MN Sokol Organization, St. John’s Cemetery Genealogy Association, Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church Choir, and was the first female to join the Over 60’s Band.

She enjoyed playing and writing music, genealogy, reading, translating Czech letters into English, gardening, building furniture, and farming.

Blanche is survived by her children, Joan Ruhland of Montgomery, Linda Karels of Montgomery, and Becky (Jim) Korbel of Montgomery; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Blanche is preceded in death by her parents; former husband, Louis in 1987; siblings, John, Stanley, and Agnes; sons-in-law, John Ruhland, Jack Terrio, and Jack Karels.

Arrangements are with Schoenbauer Funeral Home in Montgomery. 507-357-6116. On-line condolences may be left at www.schoenbauerfuneralhome.com.