Paul W. Kerzman, 98, Eden Valley

May 14, 1918 - August 4, 2016

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 8, 2016 at Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley for Paul W. Kerzman, age 98, who passed away peacefully on Thursday at his home. Rev. Aaron Nett will officiate and burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Sunday evening at Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley and also one hour prior to services at the church on Monday morning. Parish prayers will be at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at the church.

Paul W. Kerzman was born May 14, 1918 in Garrison, ND to Peter & Magdalen (Rueter) Kerzman. He grew up on a farm near Emmett, ND west of Garrison, in Blackwater Township. Paul attended country school for eight years. He was born with musical talent. Paul played accordion for many years. He left home at age 21 and moved to Minnesota to begin his farming career. In Minnesota, he met Margie Theis and they married on Oct. 9, 1945 at Assumption Catholic Church in Eden Valley which remained their beloved parish for their entire lives. Together, they owned and operated Glenhurst Dairy farm for 53 years. Along with Margie, he raised 11 children on the farm.

In 1995, Paul retired from farming and moved to Eden Valley. He enjoyed spending time with his children and many grandchildren. He loved to play cards and had a standing Friday night game with his children. He picked up his harmonica and started playing again after 70 years. He was well known for how well he played and entertained many people at various events. He loved the applause!

Paul is survived by his 11 children, Janet (Jerry) Hettwer, Judy (Bob) Haag, Jeanie (Dave Baum) Kerzman, Larry (Pat) Kerzman, Alan (Darla) Kerzman, Kay (Ernie) Heinen, Bob (Sherrill) Kerzman, Mary (Randy) Haag, Carol Kuechle, Ann Mayers, and Lynn (Dan) McCann; sisters, Margaret Brigman of Kalamazoo, MI and Irene Wilcox of Garrison, ND; 63 grandchildren, 113 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild.

Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Margie; his parents, Peter & Magdalen; sons in law, Roger Kuechle, Rod Ophoven and Quentin Mayers; daughters in law, Darlene and Sandy; brothers, Francis, Jim and Ralph; and sisters, Grace Burk and Rita Vreeland.