Louis Leon Ignaszewski, age 89, of Easton, died Friday, Sept. 8, 2006, at the Good Samaritan Center in Albert Lea. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Easton. The Rev, Mark McNae will officiate. Visitation is Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bruss-Heitner Funeral Home in Wells and one hour prior to services at the church.

Louis L. Ignaszewski was born July 29, 1917, the son of Lawrence and Verona (Kulla) Ignaszewski in Stephan. His mother died when he was a young boy and he lived with his father and uncles in Easton. Louie was the first person drafted to the Army from Faribault County for World War II on June 19, 1941. Louie was a prisoner of war from May 16, 1942, to Aug. 18, 1945 serving the death march, hell ships and atomic bomb that led to the surrender of the Japanese and the end of World War II. Louie was fortunate to witness the signing of the surrender. Louie received the

American Defense Service Ribbon, Bronze Star, Bronze Battle Stars and a Purple Heart.

Louis returned to Easton and married Angeline Linder. They made their home there for many years. While in Easton, they owned a restaurant and bar, Ignaszewski Trucking, as well as a repair shop. Louis was mayor of Easton from 1972 to 1980. He was a member of the Easton American Legion Post 569 for over 60 years. He was also a life member of the VFW. Louie and Angeline had the honor of going to Australia to unveil the memorial plaque for General MacArthur. After Angeline’s death, Louie continued to run his repair shop until health forced him to retire and he made his home at The Shepherd’s Inn and most recently at Good Samaritan Center until his death.

He is survived by one brother, Martin and his wife Avis Ignaszewski of Blue Earth; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, along with special friend, Adrian (Bud) Herman of Good Samaritan Center in Albert Lea.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Angeline in 1999, and one sister Florence Hicks.

God be with you and bless you for what you have done for our country. Peace and love to Louie.