Leslie John Rosecke

Leslie John Rosecke, age 74, passed away at his home in Richfield, Minnesota on Sunday, March 8, 2026. 

Leslie John Rosecke was born May 29, 1951 to Johnny and Katherine Rosecke. Les graduated from Kasson-Mantorville High School in 1969. During high school summer breaks he worked at Casey’s Drive-In in Kasson. He graduated from Waldorf College in 1971 then attended the University of Minnesota majoring in Mortuary Science. After graduating with a Mortuary Science Degree in 1975 he later earned his Masters in Business Administration from DeVry University. 

Les interned and worked for Albin Chapel in Minneapolis for over 30 years. Then he worked for Thomson-Dougherty Funeral Home in Minneapolis and Johnson-Peterson Funeral Home in St. Paul until retirement in February, 2025. Les was proud of achieving and being recognized as a 50-year licensed funeral director serving others. 

He was a long time active member of Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis serving on the Columbarium committee, the Church Board and many other committees. Les joined and participated in the Minnesota Men’s Compline Choir for over 20 years. The Choir traveled for performances nationwide plus one special performance in Paris, France. Attending the Augsburg Advent Vespers held at Central Lutheran Church was a highlight of his holidays.

There were many things over the years Les enjoyed. Many vacation getaways to Buena Vista Colorado, often taking friends and family in September to enjoy the Aspen fall colors and mountain scenery. Shopping estate and garage rummage sales looking for a good bargain. Trying new recipes, critiquing, reporting the results, reading and collecting cook books. Dining with family and friends was always special. Gardening in his hosta bed and peonies, playing organ in his home, hanging wall paper for friends, quilting and trying hardanger embroidery each took a special skill. Les loved his family and stayed in touch with neighbors and special friends regularly. 

He was a man of great integrity. 

Survivors include two sisters and their families: Joan Dotzenrod of Racine, Mn and Judy (Lonnie) Zelinske of Owatonna, Mn and many nieces and nephew. 

Leslie was predeceased by his parents, Johnny and Katherine Rosecke, brother Jerald Rosecke, niece Jenny (Rosecke) Nguyen, nephew Ben Zelinske, brother-in-law Curtiss Dotzenrod. 

Visitation will be one hour before the 1:00 pm service on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE, Kasson, Minnesota with Pastor Melissa Pohlman of Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in South Zumbro Lutheran Cemetery in Kasson, MN. 

Entrusted in care with Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes. Blessed be his memory.