Florian Joseph Sterner

Florian Joseph Sterner, age 99, of Richfield, MN, went to be with our Lord on November 4, 2025. The gates of Heaven opened wide, and a choir of angels sang to welcome his arrival.
Born on February 26, 1926, in Winsted, MN, Florian was one of fourteen children to Edward and Anna (Fiecke) Sterner. Growing up on the family farm during the Great Depression, he learned early the values of hard work, humility, and faith that guided him throughout his life.
Florian served in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. He worked for Archer Daniels Midland for over 40 years.
He married Mary Jo Kort, on May 6, 1961, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis. Their 43 years of marriage blessed them with three children.
As a proud member of Annunciation, Florian served his church community as an usher, and a member of the Twelve Apostles. He found joy in woodworking, fishing, and volunteering, but above all, serving others.
Florian will always be remembered for his quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering faith. His life was a testament to love rooted in the Lord. We will miss his twinkling eyes and warm smile, and we will strive to live in a way that reflects the light of Christ, just as he did.
Survived by his loving children, Cheryl (Curt) Carlson, Carol (Chris) High, and Steven Sterner; grandchildren, Linnea (Bradley), Hannah, Jacob, Eric, Kiele, and Kaela, great-grandchildren, Ashton, Connor, and Benjamin.
Preceded in death by his wife Mary Jo (Kort), his parents, and siblings.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 13, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Richard Catholic Church in Richfield, MN, 7540 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55423; Mass at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow at 12:00 p.m.