Earl Mathew Traufler passed away at Southview Care Center on Wedenday, Oct. 13, 2004.

Earl was born on Oct. 31, 1920, in Caledonia, Minn., the son of Peter and Katherine (Maas) Traufler. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peters Catholic Church in Caledonia.

Earl joined the Army in 1942 and fought in the Battle of Normandy with the 313th Infantry Regiment. He was honorably discharged in November 1945. He was a long time member of the VFW, and although he struggled with flashbacks from his war experiences, he was very proud of his service to his country.

Earl is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Pearl (Nelson); two children from his first marriage: Jean (Jon) Amlaw of LaCrescent, Minn., and Thomas (Karen) of LaCrosse, Wis.; five stepchildren: Diane (Michael) Calderon, Gary (Judy) Nelson, Gene (Maureen) Nelson, Dennis (Theresa) Nelson, and Cliff (Kathy) Michaelis; and numerous grandchilldren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Lillian.

A memorial service will be held at the Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home, Hastings,

on Saturday, Oct. 16, at 10:30 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. at Graceland Cemetery in Albert Lea.

The family wishes to express their thanks to the staff of the Southview Care Center, especially the nurses of the Third Floor for the care given Earl.