Ronald “Kopee" R. Kopet , age 82, of New Prague, passed away on March 30, 2026.

Elko New Market held its annual Egg Hunt Saturday, March 28, at the Eagle View Elementary School. It was estimated that approximately 300 children participated in the Egg Hunt. Children, from toddlers up to fifth-grade could hunt for plastic eggs on the school’s playground and then turn them in for a bag of candy and small prizes. There were also golden eggs each child could take and turn in for a toy or book. There were also treats such as cookies and popcorn.

If the early results are a reliable sign, New Prague High School’s track teams are looking at a strong showing this spring.

Thursday, the Trojans competed at a non-conference indoor meet at Minnesota State University, Mankato. The NP boys finished ahead of Mankato East and Blue Earth Area. The New Prague girls finished second to Mankato East and ahead of BEA.

Orville R. Aman, age 94, of New Prague, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 26, 2026.

Orville was born on November 24, 1931, in Eureka, South Dakota, to Reinholt and Alma Aman. He grew up in Eureka and worked in the dairy industry before being drafted into the United States Army. He served during the Korean War and rose to the rank of sergeant, a role he took great pride in.

A law that was on the books in Minnesota since 1942 was repealed by the Minnesota State Legislature for 2026.

Minnesota Statute 97B.318, which stated “During the regular firearms season in the shotgun use area, only legal shotguns loaded with single-slug shotgun shells, legal muzzle-loading long guns, and legal handguns may be used for taking deer. Legal shotguns include those with rifled barrels,” was effectively repealed as of Jan. 1, 2026.

    A law that was on the books in Minnesota since 1942 was repealed by the Minnesota State Legislature for 2026. 
    Minnesota Statute 97B.318, which stated “During the regular firearms season in the shotgun use area, only legal shotguns loaded with single-slug shotgun shells, legal muzzle-loading long guns, and legal handguns may be used for taking deer. Legal shotguns include those with rifled barrels,” was effectively repealed as of Jan. 1, 2026. 

Anna Mae Witt, age 95, of New Prague, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on March 22, 2026.

Anna Mae was born on September 4, 1930, to Thomas and Evelyn Shaughnessy on her family’s farm in St. Thomas, Minnesota. She grew up on the farm and graduated from Le Sueur High School. After earning her teacher training certificate, she began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in St. Thomas.

Gene Howard Sanford, age 75, of Faribault, passed away March 18, 2026, at the Mayo Clinic Health System, New Prague.  

Funeral services will be held on April 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at First English Lutheran Church, Faribault.  Interment will be at Forest Cemetery, rural Rice County.

Brianna Kiefert, age 38, of New Prague, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 19, 2026.

Brianna was born April 18, 1987, in Shakopee, Minnesota, to Randy and Teresa (Nordrum) Kes. She grew up in New Prague and graduated from New Prague High School in 2005. After graduation, she followed her love for children by working in childcare. She met her husband, Tim, in 2012, and they were married in 2014.

Members of New Prague city staff, the city council and Greystone Construction held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday afternoon, March 12, for the city’s newest energy generation facility. Gathering at 507 Sixth Ave. NW, the group broke ground in a brief ceremony.

The family and friends of Dr. Kurtis Malecha, Ph.D., are deeply saddened to announce his passing on March 10, 2026. He was born on October 1, 1990 in Lonsdale, MN, to Tim and Sue Malecha. Prior to attending college, he worked at his parent's shop learning the values of hardwork and problem-solving. He obtained a Bachelor's in Chemistry from Minnesota State University, Mankato, followed by a Master's and Doctorate in Atmospheric Chemistry from University of California, Irvine.

The New Prague Area Figure Skating Club held its 27th annual spring show, Sunshine, Summer, Spirals & Spins, Saturday, March 14, at the New Prague Community Center. The show featured music from spring, summer and warm places such as Hawaii. There were classic songs such as “Surfin’ USA” to Disney songs like “You’re Welcome” from “Moana.” The performances featured solos, duets, trios and large groups. There were...

To see more on this story pick up the March 19, 2026 print edition of The New Prague Times. 

Tupy thrilled for chance to student teach in New Prague

There are plenty of places Hallie Tupy could earn a living after she graduates from college this spring. Her first choice is a classroom, preferably in her hometown.

Larry Marvin Schanus, age 75, of Medina, Minnesota, was born on December 20, 1950, to Edward and Irene (Frank) Schanus in New Prague, Minnesota, and passed away on January 29, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. 

Larry was united in marriage to Laura Jeanne Courteau in 1969. Together they raised five children: Daniel, Christopher, Amanda, Stacie, and Sandra. Family was the center of Larry’s life and he was proud to be a father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

"Happy Holidays!" That was John's signature greeting, and whenever he spoke it, he instantly filled the room with warmth and cheer. His presence made everyone feel welcome, a true reflection of the joy and kindness he shared with all who knew him.

John Joseph Radermacher, age 72, of Le Center, MN, passed away on March 13, 2026, at his home.

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