Alfred Henry Dirschel

Alfred Henry Dirschel, 97, of Rochester, MN formerly of Robbinsdale, MN, passed away peacefully Monday, May 4, 2015 at Seasons Hospice in Rochester. Alfred was born May 23, 1917 in Meire Grove, MN to Adam and Mary (Kniese) Dirschel. On July 3, 1939, Alfred married Agnes Martin at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Robbinsdale, MN. Alfred worked for the Minnesota Gas Company, now known as CenterPoint Energy, retiring in 1979 after 34 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards and enjoyed woodworking making many crafts including his birdhouses. Alfred had a green thumb and loved working in his garden, especially tending to his famous tomato plants. He was a fix it man, able to fix anything and everything. Alfred was honorable, hardworking, loving, strong and a true gentleman. His motto in life was It's a great life, if you don't weaken. Above all, Alfred loved spending time making memories with his children and grandchildren. Alfred is survived by his children, Gerald (Luann) Dirschel of Rochester, MN, Diane (Greg) Rusinyak of Townsend, MT; grandchildren, Christine Dirschel, Steven Dirschel, Laurie (Leo) Shanks, Patrick Rusinyak, Michael (Lisa) Rusinyak and 12 great-grandchildren. Alfred was preceded in death by his wife, Agnes; granddaughter, Julie; his parents; 5 sisters and 2 brothers. A private family graveside will be held at Gethsemane Catholic Cemetery in New Hope, MN. Arrangements entrusted to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, Rochester, MN.To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com