Rachael N. Hofstad

Rachael N. Hofstad, 99, of Rochester, passed away on Sunday, March 27, 2016 at Samaritan Bethany Home in Rochester. Rachael was born April 10, 1916 in Viola Township, MN to Jo and Evelyn (Lufkin) Richardson. She graduated from Elgin High School in 1933 and Winona State Teachers College in 1935. She married Harvey Stellmaker in 1939 and later divorced. She remarried in 1969 to Clayton Hofstad who passed away in 1996. During WWII Rachael worked as a welder on Ships in Seattle, WA. She taught for 23 years as a classroom teacher and 9 years as Assistant County Superintendent in the Olmsted County School district. After her retirement she worked for the state as a daycare inspector. Rachael was also a mentor for many kids at different schools in Olmsted County. She enjoyed traveling, fishing, crocheting, reading and playing cards. She especially loved to spend time with her family. She was a member of the Eastern Star and the Congregational Church in Rochester. Rachael is survived by her sons, Steven (Alice) Stellmaker, Zumbro Falls, Alan (Patti) Stellmaker, La Crosse, WI, 9 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Clayton, her son Joe Stellmaker, her parents, 2 brothers, 3 sisters. A memorial service will be held Friday, April 1, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Congregational Church in Rochester with Reverend Dr. Teresa Roberts officiating.Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.Burial will take place in the memorial garden at church. Memorials preferred to the youth and confirmation program of the Congregational Church in Rochester.