Wilmar Aschnewitz

Wilmar J. Aschnewitz, age 85, resident of Evergreen, MN, died peacefully in his sleep on Friday, March 1, 2019, at his residence in Evergreen.

Wilmar James Aschnewitz was born September 27, 1933, in Perham, MN, to Herman Sr. and Emilie (Marx) Aschnewitz.  He was baptized October 15, 1933, at what is now called St. John's Lutheran Church-Dora in Dent. His family resided in Dent, MN for five years before moving to Clearbrook, MN.  Wilmar was confirmed May 18, 1947, at Emmanuel Congregation in Dent, MN.  In March of 1948, they moved to the family farm in Evergreen.  In 1957, Wilmar was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country overseas during the Korean War.  While he was serving, he received his high school diploma. Following his honorable discharge, Wilmar returned home to Evergreen and took over the family farm.

On May 8, 1976, Wilmar was united in marriage to Marion Lucille Weidemann.  They resided on the family farm and started their family.  Wilmar and Marion welcomed seven children: Jeridan, Justin, Jerlyn, Jerron, Jamie, Josie, and Joslyn; known as the “J team”.  Throughout life, Wilmar instilled in his children a love for family, a strong work ethic and a life centered on Christ.  The entire family knew if you were not working on Sunday, you must be ready for church.  Wilmar rarely missed a Sunday service with his family and was currently serving as an elder at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  He enjoyed the day to day activities on the farm and continued doing so until his passing.

Wilmar was a soft spoken and humble man.  He would listen patiently in any situation but when he had something to say everyone would listen. His wisdom came from his love of reading and experiences throughout life.  Wilmar was a man of true integrity and believed in doing things right the first time.  His time between chores on the farm and spending time with his family were enjoyed by taking a good nap.  Sometimes a search to try and find him would end in the hayloft or in the basement after firing up the wood stove.  When asked if he was sleeping, a soft reply of “I’m just resting my eyes” would be common.  He was also never in a hurry.  He enjoyed a long drive throughout the countryside, which equated to his love of nature and the woods.  His “shortcuts” often meant walking through several sections of township before finding his way home.  His kind heart was demonstrated with his love for animals, especially the ones on the farm.  All his cows had names; at the time of his passing, Wilmar had three cows and a three-legged dog named “Louie”.

Wilmar was a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather.  The family will miss his soft smile, warm hugs and kisses on the cheek.  He was longtime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Evergreen and proud member of the Wolf Lake VFW Post #8165.

Wilmar will be remembered and missed by his wife, Marion and their seven children: Jeridan (Annette) along with their children, Sarah, Jesse and Emily; Justin (Sheila) and their children: Westin, Addison and Kaija; Jerlyn (Jonathon) Hensel and their children: Seth and Andrea; Jerron (Amanda) and their children:  MaKayla, Chandler, Ella, Parker and baby “A” due in July; Jamie (Gary) Leach and their children: Hunter and Kaylee; Josie (Matthew) Johnson and their children: Kailei, Clayton, William and Mya; Joslyn (Kyle) Keskitalo and their children: Ariana, Britta, Gunther and Freja.  In addition, he is survived by four siblings: Alice, Elaine, Jeannette and Herman “Butch” Jr.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and five siblings: Delores, Evelyn, Dorothy, Edna and Raymond.

Wilmar was a simple and practical man. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be set up in his memory.

Funeral Services for Wilmar will be held Saturday, March 9, 2019, at 11am at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Evergreen, MN. Visitation will be held Friday, March 8, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Evergreen from 4-7pm with Prayer Service at 6:30pm. Visitation will also continue Saturday one hour prior to the service. Burial with Military Honors will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery in May.