Dean Virgil Toelle

Dean Toelle passed away November 10, 2024, at Auburn Manor in Chaska, MN. His Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Vertin Munson Funeral Home in Wahpeton, ND at 11 AM. Family will receive the public beginning at 10 AM. Pastor Craig Palach will officiate the service. 

Dean Toelle was born on April 30, 1932, to Emil and Esther (Huse) Toelle in rural Nashua, MN. He graduated from a one-room schoolhouse after completing eight grades and then worked on the family farm. In 1949, he graduated from the West Central School of Agriculture in Morris. Afterward, he served two years in the Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1954. In 1955, Dean married Lavonne Willard, the love of his life. Together, they were blessed with six children.

Dean spent many years farming near Tintah, where he was actively involved in his community. He served on several boards, including those for the church, elevator, township, telephone, and ASC.

In 1983, Dean and Lavonne purchased a seasonal lake home near Underwood where they hosted many family gatherings over the years. Dean was an avid fisherman and there were always ample fish for a meal. Dean also became a skilled wood craftsman during retirement, creating many family treasures.

After the passing of his beloved wife Lavonne in 2015, Dean sold his farm and moved to Waconia in 2017 to be closer to his family. Although leaving the farm meant no longer having a billiard table in the basement, family gatherings continued with many opportunities for playing cards, playing pool, and to celebrate the wins (or commiserate on the losses) of the Vikings and Twins.

Dean is survived by his children: Kathryn (Warren) Grove of Rugby, ND; Linda (Ron) Klukken of Osakis, MN; Steven (Laura) Toelle of Minneapolis, MN; Laurie (Jack) Hanson of Brandon, SD; Wanda (Alan) Conley of Eden Prairie, MN; and Kevin Rosin, husband of the late Cynthia (Toelle) Rosin. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Esther; his wife, Lavonne; his daughter, Cynthia Rosin; four brothers, Donovan, Emil Jr., Lynn, and Allan; one sister, Carol; and an infant great-grandson.

Interment will be the same day at Riverside Cemetery north of Nashua.

 In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Chaska, MN.