Alvin Gritzmacher

Alvin G. Gritzmacher, age 93 of Sauk Centre, died Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at the St. Michael's Nursing Home in Sauk Centre.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 11 at Zion Lutheran Church in Sauk Centre. Pastor Marty Porter will officiate with interment following in Greenwood Cemetery.

Friends may call 1 hour prior to the service at church.

Alvin George Gritzmacher was born to William and Katherine (Ripka) Gritzmacher on December 28, 1914 on the family farm in Getty Township, Stearns County, Minnesota near Sauk Centre. He was baptized at St. John's Church in Unity Township. As a young man, he was confirmed and the family became members at Zion Lutheran Church, where he remained a life-long member. He attended country school near the farm and graduated in 1932 from the West Central School of Agriculture in Morris, Minnesota.

Al began farming with his family and continued to farm with his brother Merlyn for 50 years. He saw many changes, as he began farming with horses and milking by hand and was proud to buy his first combine in 1954. Al continued to work and live on the farm with his brother until this past April. As a young man he was an avid bowler, enjoyed playing pool, hunting, fishing, and playing cards. In later years he continued to fish and spent many hours playing cards at John's Place and the Senior Center.

Most of all, he loved sporting events, especially baseball. He played with the Sunny Southside team and enjoyed playing with many local teams. He kept a close watch on the Twins as well as the Vikings and many college teams.

Alvin is survived by his brother, Merlyn Gritzmacher of Sauk Centre; nephew, William Berg; nieces, Elaine (Leon) Oman and Catherine (Paul) Michaelson; great-nephews, Anthony Michaelson and Jeffrey Oman; great-nieces, Katherine Michaelson and Kristin (Tomy) Lokvicic.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Gritzmacher; sister, Malvina (Sylvester) Berg; and niece, Malvina Berg.Serving as urn bearers will be Jeff Oman, Tony, Michaelson, Katie Michaelson, and Kristin Lokvicic. Honorary bearers will be Clarence Ripka and Don Ripka.