Nathan J. America, age 33 of Chaska, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, December 10, 2019. 
The youngest of three boys, Nate was born on January 1, 1986 in St Paul, MN, the son of Martin and Louise (Rieck) America. A graduate of New Prague High School, Nate loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hiking, fishing and archery.

Patricia Rose Ploumen, age 79, of Shakopee, MN, passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at All Saints Senior Living in Shakopee.
Pat was born in New Prague, MN, on June 4, 1940, the daughter of Martin and Emma (Pavek) Donnelly. She grew up on the family farm in Cedar Lake Township, Scott County, MN. For over 35 years, Pat was employed as a social worker for Scott County and then the State of MN.

Milton F. Holetz, age 89, of Montgomery passed away suddenly but peacefully Monday, December 9, 2019, at his home on the farm where he lived for 53 years.

Bessie Mae Kohout Janousek was born on February 17, 1938 in Jordan, Minnesota to Emil and Helen (Dubbe) Kohout.  She grew up on the family farm in Minnesota where she attended school.  Being part of a farm family, Bessie spent much of her time cooking, cleaning and caring for her siblings. 

Richard L. Rybak, age 57 of Savage, passed away on December 4, 2019. Rich was born on January 30th, 1962 in New Prague to Myles and Jean Rybak. Rich attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, and graduated from New Prague High School.
Rich developed a deep love for sports at an early age. He enjoyed playing basketball and baseball throughout most of his life. This love for sports was passed along to his daughter, Hannah. Rich was a proud father, Hannah’s biggest cheerleader, and a wonderful brother, uncle, friend to many.

Roman F. Stepka, age 90, of New Prague, died peacefully but suddenly with his family at his side on Friday, December 6, 2019 at St. Francis Regional Medical Center in Shakopee.  Roman was born on January 25, 1929 in New Prague to John F. and Barbara P. (Hanzal) Stepka.  He grew up in the St. Patrick area and attended country school.  He married the love of his life, Rita M. Tupy on September 3, 1966 in New Prague.  Farming was ingrained in Roman’s blood so raising his family on a dairy farm in the St.

Claude G. Witt, age 77, of Prior Lake, formerly of Belle Plaine, died suddenly on Thursday December 5, 2019 at his home in Prior Lake.  Claude was born on June 17, 1942 in New Prague, Minnesota to Cletus C. and Bertha A.

Drew Novak, age 38, passed away due to a snowmobile accident on November 30, 2019 near Pequot Lakes, MN. Preceded in death by grandparents, Lando and Angie Busch and Emil and Elsie Novak; uncle, Glenn Busch and aunt Nancy Vescio. 

RYAN TROY CUNNINGHAM, age 22 of Waterville, passed away at his apartment in Maple Grove on Wednesday, November 27, 2019.