William “Bill” Grunklee, 92, Owatonna
William “Bill” Grunklee, 92, of Owatonna, died Wednesday, June 26, 2024 in his home at Timberdale Trace Assisted Living surrounded by his loving family.
He was born June 29, 1931 in Aurora Township the son of William and Amelia (Kruckeberg) Grunklee. He was raised on the family farm, attended country school and graduated from Blooming Prairie High School. Bill was united in marriage to Marcella "Marcy" Blazek on November 25, 1954 at Associated Church in Owatonna. The couple made their home in Aurora Township where they farmed and raised four children.
Bill was passionate about farming. He ran a dairy operation, raised hogs, corn, beans and made hay. He always made time to play cards, go to dances and celebrate special occasions. Bill also enjoyed watching birds, taking day trips, an occasional trip to the casino and spending time at the Steele County Free Fair.
Bill moved to Owatonna in 2018 to Timberdale Trace which became his home for six years. he staff and residents became family to him over the years. He never wanted to burden the staff but was very appreciative when he needed their help. Bill was quick to smile, had a wonderful sense of humor and could start a conversation with anyone he met. Bill had an incredible memory of people, family history, and birthdays and anniversaries.
Bill was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Claremont. Bill helped at many church functions including ice cream socials, pancake suppers and funeral lunches. Bill especially enjoyed working hard to clear the church grounds of weeds, brush and tree branches in the spring. Bill had a strong faith in Christ which he passed along to his children.
He is survived by daughter, Deb (and Mike) Schiller of Owatonna, Bob (and Dawn) Grunklee of Claremont, Brian (and Patty) Grunklee of Rosemount, Diane (and Curt) Edel of Owatonna; grandchildren, Lisa (and Nathan) Simon, Andrea Schiller, Kristen (and Benjamin) Hager, Ryan (and Mandy) Grunklee, Trent (and Jennifer) Grunklee, Jacob Grunklee, Tess Grunklee, George Grunklee, Patrick Grunklee, Emmi Edel, Addison Edel, Missy (and Adam) Inzerillo, Becca Banks, Shawn Banks; 18 great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Marcella Grunklee; great grandson, Owen Hager; brother, Donald Grunklee; sister, Marene Christianson.
Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Sunday, June 30 from 4pm to 7pm and at St. John's Lutheran Church, Claremont on Monday from 10am to 11am. Funeral services will be held Monday, July 1, 2024 at 11am at St. John's Lutheran Church, Claremont with The Reverend Alan Broadwell officiating. Interment will be in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Claremont.