Ardella Malwitz

Ardella Mae Malwitz, 74, of Luverne, MN, passed away on February 14, 2026, at Ava’s Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls, SD.

Ardella was born on August 30, 1951, in Sioux Falls SD to Robert and Marlene (Wessel) Uthe. She graduated from Madison High School in 1969 and later earned her associate degree in Criminal Justice from Colorado Tech. She went on to have a long and successful career in customer service, including many years with both Campbell Supply Co. and Kum & Go.

Ardella was known for having the biggest heart and for making everyone who came into her life feel welcome. Christmas was her favorite holiday—she always made sure the decorations were up and that everyone had a gift. She also had a deep love of sports, from her days playing softball as a young adult to cheering on her children and grandchildren at their games throughout the years. Sports were always a huge part of her life, and you could often find her at the ball fields during the summer.

She loved attending music concerts, especially country music, and one of her favorite places was WE Fest. Another favorite destination was Sturgis, where she met many lifelong friends during her numerous trips there for the many motorcycle rallies that she attended. However, her most cherished time of year was her annual trip to Mexico, where she could often be found sitting on the beach, soaking up the sun, enjoying a cold beer.

Ardella is survived by her husband, Antonino Gonzalez; her sister, Sheryl Uthe; her children, Chad (Stephanie) Malwitz, Richard (Ashley) Gonzalez, and Ryan (Morgan) Gonzalez; her grandchildren, Jessica Williams, Brianna (Kyle) Malwitz, Brittney (William) Malwitz, Kevin (Brittney) White-Mountain, Braden Malwitz, Brock Malwitz, Jordin Gonzalez, Kingston Gonzalez, and Orlando Gonzalez; many great-grandchildren; and her two nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marlene Uthe, and her daughter, Danielle Malwitz White-Mountain.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Active Generations – Luverne, located at 105 S. Estey St., Luverne, MN 56156.