DelRoy Kowalzek

DelRoy "Barney" Kowalzek, age 67, a resident of Lastrup, MN, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2013 at the Pierz Villa. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 21, 2013 at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church in Lastrup with Rev. David Maciej officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at Emblom-Brenny Funeral Service in Pierz, MN. Visitation will continue on Thursday from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. DelRoy (Barney) Matthew Kowalzek was born in Little Falls, Minnesota on April 2, 1945 to the late Felix & Erma (Voelker) Kowalzek. Barney was united in marriage to Shirley Tretter on July 16, 1966 at Holy Cross Church in Onamia. The couple lived in the Lastrup area for over 30 years while raising three children. Barney and Shirley owned and operated Barney's Place in Lastrup for 17 years. Barney took pride in sponsoring many local sports teams, but the most enjoyment came from being a part of the Barney's Bulldogs baseball team. There were not too many things that kept him from being at the ball games. He is well known for his storytelling, singing and "blue bloomers". He liked raising chickens and taking care of his companion, "Little Hoss". His stories and sense of humor will be greatly missed, may he rest in peace. Survivors include sons, Doug of Harding; Kenny (Kris) Kowalzek of Pierz; and daughter Paula (Gary) Jutz of Buckman; grandsons, Robby and Ryan Kowalzek and Jeremy Jutz; granddaughter KayLee Jutz; siblings, Jerome (Erna) Kowalzek of Lino Lakes, MN, Larry (Iris) Kowalzek of Pierz, MN, David (Nancy) Kowalzek of Fort Ripley, MN, Gary (Brenda) Kowalzek of Coon Rapids, MN, and Lois (John) Hoheisel of Pierz, MN; sister-in-law, Sylvia Kowalzek of Lastrup, MN. Preceded in death by his wife, Shirley (November 12, 1997); parents, Felix and Erma Kowalzek; sister, Irene Schwartz; brothers, Alwin and Roger Kowalzek.