Anthony James Pfahl

Anthony James Pfahl, 28 of Duluth, died unexpectedly on Aug. 10th at Essentia St. Mary’s from natural causes.

Born in Boca Raton, Florida, Anthony was adopted by Patrick Pfahl and Susan McClernon. The family relocated to Duluth in 2004, where Anthony attended Holy Rosary and Marshall schools, graduated from Harbor City International High School, and earned his CNA certificate from Hibbing Community College. He continued his education at Lake Superior College, where he completed his associates degree, and was preparing to further his studies at The College of St. Scholastica this fall.

Anthony was known for his kindness, gentle spirit, and deep compassion for both people and animals. His diverse interests included voracious reading, culinary arts, a passion for tea and swimming in Lake Superior. He was an enthusiastic fan of Anime and gaming. His extensive knowledge made him an invaluable member of any trivia team. Anthony achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 43 and earned a Black Belt in Taekwondo. His dedication extended to volunteering at Gabrielle’s Books, Animal Allies, and the Duluth Zoo. His commitment to excellence was recognized with multiple Employee of the Month awards. Anthony was always willing to help, arriving early and covering shifts for his colleagues without hesitation. A thoughtful philosophical soul, he loved exploring and discussing life’s big questions. His imaginative nature and wise spirit made him a unique and cherished individual. This world just won’t be the same without him. 

He was preceded in death by his birth mom, Jessica Limin, grandparents, MaryAnn and Arlo Pfahl; cousin, Sean McClernon; uncles, Michael Pfahl, Jim McClernon and Chad Braafladt.

Anthony is survived by his parents, Patrick Pfahl and Susan McClernon; siblings, Mikala and Brendan Pfahl, Cameron Cohen; grandparents, Richard and Dolores McClernon, 15 aunts and uncles, 31 cousins and many friends. 

Visitation will begin Friday Aug. 16th at 5:00 pm with a Rosary Recitation at 6:30 pm in the Dougherty Funeral Home at 600 E 2nd St, Duluth, MN. Visitation will continue Saturday, Aug 17th from 12 noon with a 1:00 pm Catholic Funeral Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, 2801 E 4th St. Duluth, MN. Burial will be later that afternoon at St. Francis Cemetery, Carlton, MN. 

Memorials are preferred and may be directed to: Star of the North Maternity Home, 11 E Superior St., Executive Suites 273, Duluth, MN 55802 or Masses can be donated through the Cathedral of Our Lady. Sign the online register book at, www.dfhduluth.com. Arrangements by the Dougherty Funeral Home, Duluth, MN.

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