In Loving Memory of Our Classmates
We want to take a moment to express our deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers for all the classmates we have lost over time. Whether we knew them closely or only in passing, each person was an important part of our shared journey at Alexander Ramsey. Every classmate helped shape our experiences, our memories, and even who we are today. Their influence, whether through a kind word, a shared laugh, or simply their presence in the halls, left a lasting mark on many of us.
We want to honor every member of our class who is no longer with us. If you have information about a classmate who has passed but has not yet been added to our Memorial Page, please reach out and let us know. It is very important to us that every life is remembered and celebrated with the respect and love they deserve.
Thank you to all our alumni for everything you continue to do — for staying connected, for sharing memories, and for helping keep the spirit of the Class of '79 strong and alive. Your care and involvement mean more than words can express.
Unfotunately It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our classmate.
Timothy James Yapel, age 63, of Munson Twp. passed away suddenly at home, on April 19, 2025. Tim was born on April 29, 1961, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Anthony and Agnes Yapel.
Tim earned his degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and later was a certified radio broadcaster. For over 30 years Tim was the owner of Merchant Connection, serving the retail industry.
On June 29, 2002, Tim married the love of his life, Carol Farley. Together, Carol and Tim owned the Farley’s Country store, where they shared a true partnership in business and in life. Carol and Tim were in the process of rebuilding the store and planning the store’s 100-year anniversary for 2025.
Tim found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid bowler, he enjoyed boating and fishing, he played tennis and in his younger years played hockey. In the land of 10,000 lakes, the Yapel family enjoyed the peace and rest at Lake Vermilion, the ideal place for summer vacations.
Tim’s devotional readings and his morning walks at the Rookery with coffee and banana in hand grounded his day. Music was a lifelong passion of Tim's, he especially loved playing rock n roll on his guitar, and it would “gently weep”.
Tim is survived by the love of his life Carol, his sister, Terese (Lawrence) Ricci; his brother, Robert (Theresa) Yapel; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony Francis Yapel Jr. PhD. and Agnes Elizabeth (née Pavlich) Yapel.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Thursday, May 8, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Burr Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 9, at 10:00 a.m., also at Burr Funeral Home, followed by a procession to Maple Hill Cemetery for interment.
Tim will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, and his presence will be greatly missed. He will also be remembered for his giant smile, contagious laugh and his love for almost everyone.
Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
arrangements have been entrusted to the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon, Ohio.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com
https://www.burrservice.com/obituaries/Timothy-At-Farley-S-Store-James-Yapel?obId=42314321
Ramsey Class of '79.
In Loving Memory of Mary Jo Pollard Mills
Alexander Ramsey Class of 1979
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our dear classmate and friend, Mary Jo Pollard Mills.
Mary Jo was a cherished member of the Alexander Ramsey Class of ’79, and her warmth, kindness, and spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her. As we remember her, we are reminded of the special bond we share as classmates — one that time and distance can never erase.
We extend our deepest condolences to Mary Jo’s family and loved ones. Please keep them in your thoughts during this difficult time.
Further details and any service information will be shared here as they become available.
MARY JO POLLARD MILLS
MARCH 26, 1961 - MAY 7, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Mills, who left us peacefully on May 7tIt is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Mills who left us peacefully on Mat 7th, 2025 at the age of 64. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, friend, and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Mary Jo was born March 26, 1961 to Gordon and Martha (Santine) Pollard in Saint Paul. She grew up in Saint Anthony Park, Mahtomedi, and Falcon Heights, where she developed a love for track, volleyball, skiing, the state fair, and being with friends. She attended St. Paul Murray, Mahtomedi, and graduated from Alexander Ramsey where she lettered in track and volleyball. She continued her education at 916 Community College where she received her dental assistant certification.
Over the years, she became known for her kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering support for those around her. Mary Jo touched many lives with her strength, grace, and compassion. She enjoyed all her coworkers in her different roles through her almost 45 years at IC System. She also worked part time at the Target Deli in Lino Lakes. Outside of work she volunteered for the Lions Club in Wyoming MN and when the children were younger as a Sunday School/Confirmation Leader at Faith Lutheran Church in Forest Lake. She was very passionate and involved in her children and grandchildren's sports and hobbies. She lived her life with purpose and gave tirelessly to others. She was particularly known for her love for her dogs, disco bingo, and going out with her friends and family. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on through children, grandchildren, siblings, friends, and pets who cherished her deeply.
Mary Jo is survived by her husband Mark Mills of Wyoming; children Ryan (Laura) Mills of Stacy, Adam Mills of Hinckley, Sean (Afton) Mills of Florida, Megan Mills of Wyoming; grandchildren Sawyer Mills, Marshall Mills; siblings Bo Pollard of Circle Pines, Jeff (Rita) Pollard of Oakdale, Tim Pollard; many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents Gordon and Martha Pollard.
Reverend John Klawiter will officiate services for Mary Jo: 2:30 PM Wednesday (May 14) at Faith Lutheran Church in Forest Lake. A time of visitation for friends and family is planned for one-hour prior to the service at the church.
Funeral arrangements for Mary Jo Mills are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City ~ Swanson Chapel
www.FuneralAndCremationService.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mary Jo Mills, please visit our flower store.
