Waiting Child

Dennis,16, is a polite and soft-spoken young man. Many people describe him as cooperative, helpful, and kind. Dennis makes it point to go out of his way to do a random act of kindness for a friend or stranger every day – whether it’s lending someone a pen or pencil in class or helping a stranger while out and about. Dennis excels in school and would like to be a meteorologist and storm chaser in the future. In his free time, he likes to play Magic: The Gathering and basketball with his peers. Dennis loves food and is always down for a trip to a buffet (Pizza Ranch is his favorite!).

CONTRIBUTED

Washington Square Grill has expanded its patio area for dining “We added the extended patio to allow more guests to enjoy the patio without a wait,” said owner Shawn Skrip. Skrip encourages customers to “look for great specials, great new drinks, and great food to enjoy on the patio.”

Makaila,12, is outgoing with a big personality! Makaila enjoys making friends and having conversations with peers and adults. She has a huge heart and is very artistic and creative. Makaila enjoys being helpful around the home, especially when it comes to caring for animals, as she dreams of becoming a vet someday. She likes to stay active and loves to spend hours at the local park. In her free time, you will find Makaila working on arts and craft projects, playing with her Pop-Its collection, completing word search puzzles, or learning a new board game. She also enjoys reading, and proudly reports that she was able to read 50 books over summer break last year. Dennis and Makaila prefer a home with pets. They will do best with caregivers who can provide structure and routine. Following adoption, Dennis and Makaila need to maintain contact with their older sibling.

Submitted

John David Brainard

Age 74, resident of White Bear Lake, passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2023. John is survived by his son, Michael; daughter, Jennifer; granddaughters, Alexis, Paige and Mya. Also survived by his brother, Paul (Ceil); sister, Mary (Jim) Hessler; nieces Kellie (Scott), Lori, and Carrie; nephews, Dan and Ross. He will be missed by all, especially those that enjoyed playing golf with him, or just having a chat in any place he went.

Brian Lee Preisler

a loving husband, dad and papa, age 66, of Centerville, formerly of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a courageous 3-year battle with pancreatic cancer on July 27, 2023. Brian was the former 4th generation owner of Preisler Company in White Bear Lake. He enjoyed time working on his classic cars, traveling, and spending time with family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lois Preisler and father-in-law, Harold C. Deutsch Jr. Survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Holly; daughters, Jaime (Mike) Smith, Becky (Shane) Hillestead and Jackie (Ross) Bercier; grandchildren, Connor and Grace Smith, Calvin and Leah Hillestead, Alaina and Donovan Bercier; siblings, Chuck Preisler, Dan (Pam) Preisler, Brenda (Jack) Selbitschka; mother-in-law, Georjann Deutsch; many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Brian’s life will be celebrated with a SendOff 4-8 PM, Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 at Hugo American Legion, 5383 140th St N, Hugo. Arrangements by SendOff - Funerals Reimagined.

Mark Owen Jensen

Mark Owen Jensen of Bloomington and White Bear Lake died peacefully July 23, 2023, at his home with family by his side. He is survived by his wife Julie Anne Jensen and sister Jo Ann (Jensen) Nelson. Services were provided by the Cremation Society of Edina.

Community Brief

YMCA hosts back to school event

The White Bear Area YMCA is holding a “Back to School with the Y” event on Thursday Aug. 17 from 4 to 8 p.m. The public is invited to attend this free event. The event will include kids’ activities and a bounce house, food, school supply giveaways, and local vendors.

Local businesses and organizations who would like to reserve a spot as a vendor can contact Chris. Kost@ymcanorth.org.