George “Smokey” Randall Nelson was born in Minneapolis on February 25, 1934, to George F. and Dorothy E. Nelson. George served in the U.S. Army. He was happily married to Donna Marie Gort in 1957. Smokey taught physical education and coached football, swimming, and diving for over 30 years. Smokey taught for ISD 181 from 1966 until his retirement in 1996. 

Ellen Johanna Yde Marlow Simi, 101, was led to heaven by angels on Thursday, August 4, 2011 with her daughters by her side. She was a long-time Sylvan Township and Brainerd resident. Ellen was born on November 9, 1909, to Peter and Ellen (Henrickson) Yde in Sylvan, Minn.

PINE RIVER — Altheda Davidson, 91, of Pine River, went to be with her Lord on Aug. 3, 2011, surrounded by her family. Altheda was born to Abbey and Fredrick Perry on April 12, 1920, in Alberta, Minn. She was married to Melvin Davidson on Aug. 25, 1938, in Princeton, Minn., and they enjoyed 60 years together. Their first home was in Chokio, Minn., and three years later they purchased a small farm west of Pine River where they raised their family of five girls.

Pauline S. Bottemiller, age 77, of Brainerd, passed away Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011, at Almond House after a lengthy illness. She was born Dec. 30, 1933, in Moorhead, Minn., to Peter and Hazel (Johnson) Jesten. Pauline was married to Floyd Motschenbacher June 5, 1951, and they had four beautiful children. Floyd passed away March 14, 1981. She was then married to Galen Bottemiller June 30, 1989, who lovingly cared for her until her death.