4119 N. Oxford St Shoreview, MN 55126 us
In Loving Memory of Our Classmates
The Alexander Ramsey Class of 1979 Reunion Committee extends our deepest sympathies and prayers to the families and friends of our classmates who are no longer with us. Whether we knew them well or only in passing, each person was an important part of our shared journey. Every classmate left their own mark — through a kind word, a laugh, a lasting friendship, or a quiet influence that helped shape who we are today.
We honor their memory not just as fellow students, but as individuals who were part of the fabric of our lives. Their presence during those formative years meant something, and their absence is felt. It’s important to us that we remember and celebrate each of them with the care and respect they deserve.
If you have any information about classmates who have passed away and are not yet listed on our memorial page, please reach out to us. Your help allows us to ensure that no one is forgotten, and that we continue to honor the full story of our class.
Thank you to all our alumni for the care, time, and support you give. It’s because of you that our class community continues to thrive with meaning and connection.
Bill Heiple
William Earl Heiple
September, 1961 - May, 2025
Although many of you may have already heard, we are saddened to share that our Class of ’79 has lost another valued member. Bill Heiple passed away due to complications of dementia.
Billy was a kind soul, a loyal friend, and someone who left a lasting impression on many of us during our years at Ramsey. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
We hope you’ll keep Billy, his wife Judy, and all of his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
At this moment, little information regarding services or visitations has been located. If any further details become available, we will be sure to share them with the alumni community.
May he rest in peace.
Mary Jo Pollard
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.
Tim Yapel
Timothy James Yapel
April, 1961 - April, 2025
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.
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.