Durene "Tootsie" Mies

Durene “Tootsie” Mies, age 83, of Randolph, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Christmas Day, December 25th, 2025.

She was born on March 6th, 1942, on the family farm in Welch, Minnesota, and resided most of her life in Randolph. Tootsie was a fun, spunky, breath of fresh air. She was kind, down to earth and went out of her way to help people.

She was a hard worker. She started working at 14 years old at a White Castle Car Hop. She tried many jobs including factory work and real estate, but the job that stole her heart was driving bus. She was a dedicated school bus driver at Randolph Public Schools for over 55 years, driving multiple generations of children safely to school, extra curricular activities and sporting events. Tootsie was known for her ability to skillfully navigate the bus through inclement road conditions.

She had a deep love for her family. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren; she loved camping, sleep overs, taking them on trips, dining out, shopping, and visiting water parks. She loved going to dinners and shows at the casino. She also took great pride in her flower gardens and enjoyed hunting for a good bargain.

Tootsie was preceded in death by her parents, Douglas and Irene Anderson; her sister, Verone Mortenson; her brother, Gary Anderson; and her children’s fathers: David Haro and William Mies.

She is survived by her brother Larry Anderson; children, Todd (Mary) Haro & Troy (Lori) Haro, Will (Jody) Mies, and Autumn (Derrick) Lehrke; grandchildren, Heather (Eric) Otto, Josh Haro, Lacy, Cole (Katlyn) & Emily Haro, Kylie & Nora Mies, Silas & Priscilla Lehrke; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Her daughter Nicole Anderson remains missing.

Visitation will be held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church: 28595 Randolph Blvd, Randolph, MN 55065 on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. The service will be live-streamed and available to watch below. Lunch and burial will follow the service.

Tootsie will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her dedication to her community, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of many.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in Tootsie’s service via livestream, you can watch the service on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 2:00 pm. It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click PLAY to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.