Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Elvin Franklin Sowada Sr. age 72 of St. Wendel will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 19, 2014 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Opole. Father Russell Scepaniak and Father David Grundman will officiate and burial will take place at a later date. Elvin died peacefully at his home early Sunday morning, surrounded by his family. Family and friends may gather from 4:00-8:00 PM Thursday, September 18, 2014 and again after 10:00 AM on Friday at the church in Opole. Parish prayers will be at 6:00 PM Thursday evening at the church. Arrangements are being made with Miller-Carlin Funeral Home in Holdingford.
Elvin was born December 25, 1941 to Frank T. and Sophia (Sobania) Sowada in St. Cloud. He grew up on the farm north of Opole with four brothers. Elvin married the love of his life Theresa Peternell May 2, 1962 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, St. Stephen. Elvin and Theresa lived in St. Stephen, and then took over the family farm in Opole, and later moved to their present home in St. Wendel. Elvin worked for Ferche Mill Work and Stearns Co. Highway Dept retiring in 2007. He was a humble man who liked to keep things simple. Elvin enjoyed helping others for the sake of being helpful, never wanting recognition for himself. He liked woodworking, was skilled at fixing things, and particularly fond of bird watching. Elvin also liked visiting Laughlin Casino, taking family trips, and spending time with his family. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Opole.
Elvin is survived by his wife Theresa, St. Wendel; children Frank, Royalton; Teri (Todd) Johnson, Andover; Deb (Jim) Boom, Avon; Elvin Jr. (Jodi), Avon; Joe (Kelly), Avon; brothers Jerome and Ernest; sisters-in-law Bea (Warren) Block, Donna Peternell, Karen Peternell; and brother-in-law Benny Peternell; 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; as well as many other family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents Frank T, and Sophia; brothers Elmer and Maurice; and in-laws Willie Peternell, George Peternell, Marlene Peternell, and Joe and Roska Peternell.
Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.
Schedule and Information
Visitation Details
Family and friends may gather from 4:00-8:00 PM Thursday, September 18, 2014 and again after 10:00 AM on Friday at the church in Opole. Parish prayers will be at 6:00 PM Thursday evening at the church.
Visitation Location
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Opole
Visitation Map
Memorials
Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.
2 Comments. Leave new
So sorry to hear of Elvin’s passing, thought he had a lot more years left! Miss seeing you all, Lowell and I will try to make it over to the wake. Lots of memories of Elvin and my dad cooking up all kinds of schemes, and working on cars and whatever other motorized items looked like they needed it. Take care, and know our thoughts any prayers are with you!
Love,
Cecil and Lowell Huston
Theresa, I am so sorry to hear about Elvin. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and God Bless. Love~Jody