Obituary of Agnes Alice Drutschmann

In Loving Memory of Agnes (Manka) Drutschmann

Agnes Drutschmann, aged 84, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024. She departed this world with grace and dignity, leaving behind a legacy of supporting families, helping neighbors/friends, and perfecting her hobbies of cake decorating, gardening, canning, and baking.

Aggie was born on February 26, 1940, in Holdingford, Minnesota to parents Edward and Claudia Manka. Aggie grew up on her Uncle Rupert and Aunt Helen’s family farm. She, her siblings, and cousins learned the value of family and hard work there. 

In 1964, Aggie married her husband Joe. They raised their three children, Michelle, Diane, and Joseph in St. Paul, Minnesota before settling in Lindstrom, MN in 1976. 

Aggie touched many lives in her jobs at St. Paul Fire and Marine, Brinks Grocery Store, Plastic Products, and Hazelden Drug Treatment Center. In addition to her work, Aggie volunteered at St. Francis Church where she taught religious education classes, and coached softball. Aggie was also a 4H leader.  

Aggie’s kindness and generosity touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving an unforgettable mark on the world. She is survived by her loving children Michelle (Doug) Stanford, Joseph (Liz) Drutschmann, son-in-law Todd Elkerton; her caring siblings John (Sharon) Manka, William (Crystal) Manka, Anthony (Carolann) Manka, and Doris Meller;  her cherished grandchildren Andy Drutschmann Johnson, Joseph V. Drutschmann, Zep Elkerton, Elijah Elkerton, Emma Stanford, Lacey Stanford; many nieces and nephews, her spunky Boston Terrier Franz; and many others considered part of Aggie and Joe's extended family as they opened their house and hearts to countless individuals treating them as one of their children or grandchildren. 

Aggie was preceded in death by her parents,  Edward and Claudia Manka, her husband Joseph Drutschmann, her daughter Diane Elkerton (Todd), and her sister Eva Manka.  Aggie was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend to many. 

A celebration of Aggie's life will be held on October 26th at 1:00 p.m., St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 26267 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN 55074.  A luncheon will follow.  A burial service will take place on October 28th at Fort Snelling.   We would like to extend a special thank you to the St. Croix Hospice team for the care and love they gave to Aggie.