Elmer “Al” Ganz, age 93, of Hudson, passed away May 25th at The Deerfield in New Richmond.  He was born on November 27, 1924 to Max and Ernestine (Beseman) Ganz in Swanville, MN.  On October 14, 1950, he was united in marriage to Catherine Peterson.

During World War II he served in the U.S. Army on the European front.  After returning to the states he worked for Donovan Construction and NSP.  He retired from NSP after more than 30 years of service. 

Family was of utmost importance to Al, especially time spent playing, caring for and imparting gems of wisdom on his grandchildren.  He was an avid homesteader whose sizable gardens were admired and enjoyed by many!  When he wasn’t tending to his gardens, he was often in his shop woodworking and dreaming up new inventions to enhance and simplify his work.

Al is survived by his wife Catherine, daughter Lynne (John) Skram and son Steven (Betsy) Ganz; grandchildren Kelli Skram (Jeff Schacht), Kerri (Dan) Mikeska, Brian Skram, Kyle Ganz and Stephanie Ganz; great grandchildren Natalie and Matthew Schacht, brothers William and Dale Ganz, and sister Carol Walter.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Irvin, Edward, Jorgen, Max, jr., Roy, Donald and Robert; and sisters Hilda, Mildred, Esther, Betty, Ellen and Annette.

Private services officiated by granddaughter Reverand Kelli Skram.