Service Information
Pearl A. Seale, age 97, of Hutchinson, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Harmony River Living Center in Hutchinson.
Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 31, 2024, 10:00 A.M., at Hunter’s Ridge Community Church in Hutchinson, with interment in Oakland Cemetery in Hutchinson.
Visitation will be Friday, August 30, 2024, 4:00-7:00 P.M., at Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson, and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.
Funeral Service will be livestreamed via the church's YouTube page at https://youtube.com/live/tvSuTgw0_ps?feature=share
Memorials preferred to Common Cup, DAV, or the Ronald McDonald House in Pearl’s memory.
Obituary
Pearl Seale loved family, community, country, kolaches, polka music, dancing, sweets…and she loved God. And for the majority of her 97 years of life on this earth, she was blessed with good health and enjoyed her life to the fullest.
Pearl Ann (Stritesky) Seale was born on her family’s farm in Hutchinson Township, Minnesota, on July 15, 1927, to Louis and Agnes (Totushek) Stritesky. She was baptized and confirmed at the Silver Lake Congregational Church (now Grace Bible Church) in Silver Lake, Minnesota. Pearl received her 1st-8th grade education at the Bear Lake School, District 47 in McLeod County. She attended Hutchinson High School grades 9-12 and graduated from HHS in 1945. Pearl kept in touch with her classmates through the years, organizing many of their class reunions.
Pearl married Ed Seale on May 3, 1947, at the Silver Lake Congregational Church. They enjoyed 25 years of marriage before Ed passed away in November of 1971, from a heart attack. Pearl and Ed had no children.
Pearl worked at various stores in the Hutchinson area – Lowry’s SuperValu, Gilbert’s SuperValu, JC Penney, and Ostrom’s Hardware Store. In August of 1957, she began her long career as a secretary at Hutchinson High School and Middle School, working for Ralph Bergstrom and Bill Snyder. Because of the nature of her job, Pearl had the privilege to know many people in the Hutchinson community. She retired in June of 1987. Many classes invited Pearl to their class reunions and there were very few she didn’t attend. In her retirement years, she filled in at various schools and Ridgewater College when there was a need. She was also active in the American Legion Post 96, Kiwanis, the Hutchinson Safety Council, and Eastern Star organizations. Helping each summer at the McLeod County Fair was a highlight for her. She also found great joy in playing organ for church services at a number of churches in Hutchinson, Litchfield, and Stewart, and also played at area nursing homes when needed. The years she lived at the Prince of Peace apartments, she loved the weekly Bible studies there. Music and people brought her the most joy in life and that’s where she invested her time in her retirement years.
Pearl was chosen as the Woman of the Year for Hutchinson in 1996. That was an honor that truly humbled and pleased her. There was also a lovely article in the Hutchinson Leader highlighting the many activities she participated in as a retiree in the community. That article titled Pearl as “A Real Gem.” That she was. She was so proud of her Hutchinson community.
If there’s one thing Pearl loved, it was a good party with family and friends. A testament to that was when almost 500 people came to her 90th birthday party open house. She was overwhelmed with all who came to celebrate with her and it was a day she talked about for years to come.
The last few months of her life became a challenge physically for Pearl. She had lived the past 3 years at The Pines and enjoyed the good care and companionship she found there. She and another resident at the The Pines started a weekly choir for the residents to come and enjoy singing, whether you could carry a tune or not. She spent her final days at Harmony River Living Center under their tender care after she became too weak to care for herself. On Sunday, August 25, 2024, Pearl peacefully passed away at the age of 97.
Those left behind to mourn her loss are her nieces, Suzi (Doug) Swarthout and Annie (Tim) Watts, and nephew Lee (Jane) Stritesky. She also leaves behind 3 great-nieces Andi Swarthout, Ali (Jon) Feldman, Sarah (Matt) Gunderson, and 3 great-nephews Chris (Rachel) Swarthout, Sam (Britt) Watts and Ben (Jessica) Stritesky, as well as 17 great-great nieces and nephews, 2 great-great-great nieces, and very special friends Tom and Lori Kennedy.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Seale; parents Louis and Agnes Stritesky; brother and sister-in-law Allen and Mary Stritesky; great-niece Elana Swarthout, and great-great niece and nephews Emmalee, Owen, Cooper and Oliver Feldman. There are a number of relatives on Ed’s side that also mourn her loss.
Pearl’s favorite Bible passage was from Ecclesiastes 3:1-15. A portion of that reads, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. There’s a time to be born and a time to die; a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” God bless the memory of Pearl Ann Stritesky Seale.
Cindy Karg says
With sincere sympathy! Pearl was such a kind, caring and classy Lady!! She always had a “Hello” Rest in peace Pearl!!
Jerry and Michele Ebert says
Pearl was a great lady. Rest in peace.
Tom Nielsen says
There was only one Pearl!!
She was wonderful as the high school secretary and the best to all of us kid’s, way back in 1961. Ed was her husband and just as good a guy. She still came to our class reunions, as recently as 2023 for our 62nd. Rest in peace Pearl
Tom Nielsen
Mark L Santelman says
In some ways, Pearl may have had as much influence on our maturing as any teacher or principal. I loved seeing Pearl every day at school in my junior high years.
Blessed be her memory.
Mark Santelman
Class of ’76
Joel Baumgarten says
Pearl was such a kind and great person as a representative of our school. Rest In Peace to a true Angel!
Fern Hoff says
Oh, my! Pearl and I shared a birthday. And when I worked in school payroll, I actually got inter-school mail addressed to “Pearl”. We weren’t sure why people got us mixed up, but I thought it was an honor. She was one of a kind and we all loved her! ???
Lisa Ishihara says
Pearl was very special indeed. I loved her spunk and the twinkle in her eye. The purple highlight in her hair was a fantastic testament to that fun personality. She gave me quite a chuckle when she told me her tried and true method for dealing with scam callers…” I answer in Bohemian!” Now I do the same, only it is in Japanese. I think of sweet, spunky Pearl each time. It was a privilege to have known Pearl. Bless her memory.
Sue Forcier says
Pearl was an absolute treasure!
A good life lived and now may she rest in peace.
Sandy Christensen Johnson says
One of a kind. Auntie Pearl you will be missed! Love and prayers to all of the family.
Wanda Siewert says
Pearl was the best. Memories are so fun when it came from her. The home made popcorn balls the chat I had with her in front of her house
at the playing piano at the Christmas parties. Rest in peace Pearl. You will sadly missed and know you were the best.
Nancy (Straub) French says
My siblings and I grew up just a couple of houses down from Pearl. During that time it was Pearl and Ed. What a wonderful couple they were. We were so blessed to have known and loved her. Even after all of us moved out, my parents and her stayed on Miller Ave. Rest in Heavenly peace, Pearl. You are now joined with your beloved Ed.
Donna M Johnson says
Judt a wonderful lady. I spent “alittle” time with her. She was great to all students and caref alot for everybody.
Donna M Johnson says
Pearl was a wonderful lady. I spent alittle time with her. She was great to all students and really cared for everyone
Rachel and Roger Stearns says
Pearl was a colorful lady….from her hair to her stories. She was a school secretary who knew when kids were telling tales and called them out. She played organ with gusto. What a beloved lady.
Blessings to all who loved Pearl…
Gregory W. Micka says
Pearl,
From the Micka’s to your family, our deepest sympathies.
Pearl was never not, a part of our growing up, a family friend, an Angel on one shoulder, and a Dickens on the other. She was a school monitor, a music maven! From MY first meeting in Junior High, to Friday Drinks at the VFW, the days of her news will now have to suffice. Peace be yours, and Thank You.
Greg Micka
(others of the family may yet follow me!)
Rod Huls says
Always a kind hearted person, rest in peace Pearl
ROD HULS
Corinne Johnson says
Pearle was such an important part of my HHS experience. She was warm, caring and had a great sense of humor. I know my parents, both teachers at the school, loved her too. What a wonderful contribution she made to so many.
Mary Brink Sayne says
Pearl was a terrific lady. She knew everyone and everything. Always kind.
Sincere condolences to her family on this great loss. She will surely be remembered.
Mary Sommerness says
What a gal! Not only was she a supportive friend to all in high school, but she regularly showed up at class reunions, usually remembering each of us by name. And when I occasionally returned to Hutch for a classmate’s funeral, Pearl was there. ??
Jeanne Ray says
Prayers for the family. Pearl always devoted her time playing the piano at Unit meetings, District, and Department Legion Auxiliary meetings. She played at Harmony River, VFW functions, and had fun on Poppy Days as a volunteer .
Mary Hoffman says
So sorry to hear of Pearl’s passing. Such a sweet lady. Our deepest sympathy
Judy Sladek says
What a Gem, there has to be a special place in Heaven for Pearl. Everyone loved her.
Gene & Grace Chrast says
Pearl was a special lady who was a great “motherly” figure for all the students at HHS. She was the best and is certainly a beautiful addition to heaven. Our deepest sympathies to her family.
David Dobratz says
Remembering a dear friend and one my dad’s (Dick Dobratz) last classmates from Hutchinson High School class of 1945.
Susie (Welch)Samuelson says
My Sweet Pearl.. You were an amazing gal. As a little girl living next door to you I have great memories from piano and organ music I could always hear, your famous popcorn balls to you not telling my parents when I had a party! You were a mentor, a confidant and I loved you dearly. Rest now my sweet “old bag”. ?
Walt & Lynne Clay says
Pearl was a real class act and loved by all. So many good memories of her at Hutchinson High always willing to talk to everyone and knowing everyone. So bless to have know her for so many year. Rest In Peace Pearl.
Walt and Lynne Clay
Montecito, CA
Sharae ( Mrs Michael) Hogan says
Blessings for Pearl. I only knew her through the police ties and as a classy lady.
LaVonne Putney Daak says
My parents Norm and Marge Putney were good friends with Pearl. My dad was a great story teller and I think he and Pearl would exchange stories down at the VFW, This is his story about Pearl ” A kid was sent to the office and I think he was being suspended for whatever reason The dad comes into the office and he is cussing and ranting and raving and How dare they do this to his kid. Pearl listened to the tirade for just a short time and then calmly says” The reason he is here is because he is an even bigger a##ho## then you were in highschool. Get out of my office” That is the Pearl they knew. She was one of a kind. RIP Pearl
Matt Gustafson says
Your sister tells the story of being sent to the principal’s office and Pearl saying “what are you doing here?” since your sister wasn’t the type to get in trouble. Pearl used to be a sub in the office when I was in high school I always liked her. I think I learned later that she was friends with my grandparents and I remember her being at Grandma’s funeral. She always stood out in a crowd.
Shirley Fuchs says
Pearl was just a jem. A BEAUTIFUL lady with a Heart of gold. Rest in Peace.
John Brink says
Condolences to Pearl’s family. She saved me many times, when I surely did not deserve it.
John Brink
Chuck & Beth Morrissette & Halva Familys says
Our Sympathy’s to Pearl’s Family
She was the kind of Person who treated everyone as family! My parents Emil & Ange Halva told stories of Pearl & Ed in Silver Lake
back in the day ?? Blessings
Kathy Berghuis says
We always enjoyed Pearle!she was a breath of fresh air. She lived a long beautiful life. Sympathies to you all.
Diane Christensen says
Pearl was a very Sweet woman, as I knew her in school, relation, plus, Church her knowledge. Bless her soul.
Bonnie Karl says
Condolences to Pearls family,
Pearl was such a joy to be around. I met her when I was her office helper in Junior High, loved helping her. I also had the privilege of working with her when she subbed for Lori at the Middle School. She was “one of a kind” and such a dear to know! Rest in peace dearest Pearl. Bonnie Karl
Bob Fimon says
I love you Pearl and i will never forget you!
Bob Fimon
Elmer vorlicek says
I was and still blessed to know her and she has a kind heart and caring person and I will pray for the family and I am sorry for your loss
Sandy Lundeen Meyer says
Pearl was quite a gal! She seemed to be involved in everything! When I went to the Congregational church, she would be playing the organ. She would be at our HHS class of 61 reunions. When we moved back to Hutchinson, I would see her at the beauty parlor with the purple streak in her hair. When I was a member of the Bear Lake Sunshine Society, she was too. When they had their Christmas parties at my place, she would bring kolaches. I went to country grade school at Bear Lake, District 47, and so did Pearl years before me. Her sister in law Mary June was my favorite teacher. Pearl registered former students at our district 47 reunion.
Cheryl Kochie says
Class Act Pearl…Rest in peace!
Ronda Herbolsheimer says
Sorry for your loss. Pearl was one special lady..and you could never pull the wool over her eyes! She left quite an impact on people’s lives that’s for sure! RIP Pearl – you earned those wings!
Ronda (Fausch) Herbolsheimer
Porky and Pat Buske says
Pearl was a real jewel. She will be missed by so many. Rest in peace , dear lady.
Sandra Muske says
We loved chatting with Pearl at church and enjoyed her kolaches at coffee time there on a couple of occasions. She could make your day seem brighter just with her greetings!
Vange Anderson says
I have many great memories of Pearl over the years. We all figured she must be related directly to us Christensens cause she was at all the family gatherings. I will be forever grateful for her teaching me how to make “egg” coffee. I have made it dozens of times since for friends & elderly residents where I worked as Activities Director. I remember seeing Pearl on Pioneer Public TV on Polkatime. She sure knew how how to “cut a rug”. All my prayers and hugs to your family. I am sure it’s like losing another parent.
Jan Klabunde says
My Sympathy to Pearls family and friends, God will give you strength during this sad time. Sending prayers to all
Judy Gelderman says
Pearl was most definitely one of a kind. Love & prayers to her family.
Carla Reinowski says
What a special lady!!!! She was an organizer and always made you feel special.
God Bless You, Pearl!
Shelley (Dobratz) Carter says
So many fond memories of working in the office for Pearl at HHS. Rest in peace!
Jerome and Carol Rannow-Wendorff,Motley,mn says
We are very sorry for your loss. I was class of 61 and Carol was class of 63. I enjoyed “getting sent to the office” with Pearl and I think Mary Lepel. She was a class act!!