Bernard "Bennie" J. Ganje

Bernard “Bennie” John Ganje was born on October 2, 1930 to John and Margaretha (Reiger) Ganje in Eagle Butte, South Dakota. When he was six years old, his family moved to Villard, Minnesota. He graduated from Alexandria High School in 1948 and shortly after enlisted in the military. He was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, and was honorably discharged after serving two years. When the Korean Conflict escalated, he was recalled to serve as a training officer. He was honorably discharged in 1952. Bennie was united in marriage to Delores “Dice” Maloney on May 22, 1954 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria. To this union the couple was blessed with three children, Gregg, Lynn, and Gary. He started working in the meat department of SuperValu and then Pete’s County Market, early on assuming the role of meat department manager. A position he held for fifty-three years. He exchanged recipes with many of the housewives in the Alexandria area. Everyone admired him for his great knowledge of meat products and also for his great kindness and respect to his customers. Bennie and Dice were one of five couples who started the C.C.D program at St. Mary’s. He was active in the scouting program for many years, including teaching Ad Altari Dei Church Award. He was a volunteer fireman for twenty-four years, holding the position of chief engineer part of that time. He is a life member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Elks, Golden K’s, V.F.W, and the American Legion. Bennie enjoyed hunting, cooking, playing cards, and had a love for learning. He had a passion for old time music, playing the piano, and playing the accordion. Bennie enjoyed spending time at the family cabin on Lake Miltona. Most importantly he enjoyed being with his family, especially being present at his grandchildren’s activities. Bennie is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Dice (Delores Maloney); three children, Gregg (Toni) of Portland, OR, Lynn (Steve) Irons of Twin Falls, ID, and Gary (Janet) of St. Cloud, MN; five grandchildren, Ben Ganje of Portland, OR, Kellan Ganje of Portland, OR, Chelsea (Jameson) Spooner of Sandy, UT, Ashley Irons of Minneapolis, MN and Megan (Eddie) Rogosheske of Fairmont, MN; and sister, Mary Rajdl. Bennie is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Herman, Joseph, Anton and Albert; and sisters, Barbara, Victoria, and infant twin sisters. Bennie passed away at the St. Cloud Hospital on Saturday, June 13, 2015, at the age of 84. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Bernard "Bennie" J. Ganje

October 2, 1930 - June 13, 2015