Donate
The Wadena Cemetery Association and the Calvary Cemetery are both 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping the cemetery well-maintained. The cemetery receives no financial aid from city, county, state, or federal tax dollars. The sources of income for operation of the cemetery are obtained from the sale of lots, memorial contributions, and donations.
Join the 1877 Society!
During the smallpox epidemic of 1877, Wadena townsfolk realized the bodies of those who died of smallpox could never be moved. The cemetery grounds were chosen for their elevation and many spruce trees. The first grave is that of Emma Knight, who died of smallpox on July 16, 1877. Her gravestone can be found in Original Block 3, Lot 24.
If you would like to make a donation or memorial contribution of any kind, please contact:
Wadena Cemetery Association
Karen Priebe
218-631-2080
Calvary Cemetery
Deacon Randy Altstadt
218-632-7315
Join the 1877 Society
Thanks to generous contributions, the Wadena Cemetery Association and Calvary Cemetery are able to not only keep the cemetery well-maintained, but are also able to make improvements and carry out special projects.
Your tax-deductible gift supports everything we do to make our cemetery a beautiful and peaceful space for those who rest here and those who visit, now and for eternity.
We gratefully acknowledge the members of our 1877 Society for their support.
1877 Society Members
As of February 1, 2024 (* denotes deceased)
Golden Eagles: $5,000 +
Family of Howard and Helen McIntire
Silver Songbirds: $1,000 - $4,999
Lamson Family Trust
St. Ann's Catholic Church
Allan Lynk and Karen Johnson
Sandra Hendrickson
Saints: $500 - $999
Karvonen Funeral & Cremation Service
Schuller Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services
Lois E. Hallermann in memory of her husband, Joseph Hallermann*
Supporters: $100 - $499
The Fleer Family In memory of their mom, Marlyn Fleer*
Friends: up to $99
In memory of Bethel Erickson*
Special Projects
Wadena & Calvary Cemeteries Burial Locator Project
In 2022 and 2023, substantial improvements were made with the installation of professional roadsigns, maps, and a cemetery website. There are further projects in the works to improve the cemetery.
