Lois Ileen Hermes

Lois I. Hermes, 81, of Breckenridge, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at St. Catherine’s Living Center in Wahpeton, North Dakota, under their compassionate care and with CHI Hospice.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 25th at 11am at Joseph Vertin & Sons Funeral Home in Breckenridge, Minnesota, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

A burial service will follow at Stiklestad Cemetery, located in Brandrup Township, Wilkin County, Minnesota.

Lois Ileen Johnson was born on December 27, 1944, to Earl and Lillian (Hazel) Johnson at St. Francis Hospital in Breckenridge, Minnesota. She grew up on a farm south of Doran and attended Doran School through the eighth grade before graduating from Breckenridge High School in 1962, where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Following high school, Lois worked at J.C. Penney before beginning a long and fulfilling career in food service at the North Dakota State College of Science. She dedicated 30½ years of service before retiring.

In 1986, after her marriage, Lois moved from Wahpeton to Breckenridge. She spent many cherished years with her companion, Richard “Dick” Gutzmer, until his passing in 2016. In later years, she enjoyed a special friendship with her former classmate, Gary Boutiette.

Lois was a cherished member of The Caregivers, a supportive group of men and women devoted to caring for loved ones at home. The group meets monthly to share experiences, offer encouragement, provide understanding, and celebrate one another's strength and dedication. As Lois's health declined, the members lovingly chose to spend their monthly gatherings with her, a testament to the deep bonds she had helped foster. Lois was a valued friend, a source of wisdom and compassion, and an irreplaceable part of the group. Her presence enriched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.

Lois found joy in gardening, spending time at the lake, and collecting owl figurines. She was a gifted and creative woman who enjoyed crafting, especially Norwegian Hardanger embroidery. She took pride in her work and generously shared her handmade ornaments and creations with family and friends.

She is survived by her two brothers: Lynn (Bonnie) Johnson of Moorhead, Minnesota, and Douglas (Donna) Johnson of Caledonia, Wisconsin; three nieces: Teresa (Todd) Murlin, Stacy (Jason) Gehrke, and Erin Smith; one nephew, Chris Johnson; as well as several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to CHI Hospice or Stiklestad Cemetery, Doran, Minnesota.