Kevin David Vrieze, age 53, passed away peacefully at his home on June 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Kevin was born on June 27, 1972, in Rochester to Kenneth and Joanne (Gilbertson) Vrieze. He was raised on the family farm, where he developed a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for the land, and a lifelong commitment to family and tradition.
Kevin graduated from Spring Valley High School before pursuing higher education. He earned a degree in accounting and later completed the Building Utilities Maintenance (BUM) program. After his studies, Kevin returned to his roots and entered into partnership with his dad on the family farm, K&K Farms of Racine, LLC. Farming became his life’s work and a source of great pride as he helped continue the family legacy.
Kevin was baptized, confirmed, and attended Sunday school at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
On November 25, 2000, Kevin married Carley Cotten at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Together they built a life centered on family and hard work and were blessed with three children: Johanna Debra, Logan Randy, and William Kenneth.
Kevin loved spending time outdoors and with family and friends. He enjoyed water skiing, kneeboarding, and tubing, and looked forward to four-wheeling trips up north with friends. He especially loved time on the lake boating, family trips to cabins up north, and had recently found a strong enjoyment of fishing. Some of his favorite moments were spent on Ranger rides with Carley and their children, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
After he was no longer able to work, Kevin found joy in simple daily moments, often sitting in his rocking chair on the front porch, waving to friends as they drove by and honked – small gestures that reflected the many friends and connections he valued most.
Kevin will be remembered for his quiet strength, dedication to his family, strong work ethic, and kind heart.
Kevin is survived by his wife Carley Vrieze; his children Johanna Debra, Logan Randy, and William Kenneth; his mother Joanne Vrieze, his sisters Brenda (Patrick) Arndorfer and Debra (Leroy Harty) Vrieze, his mother-in-law Deb Cotten, his brother-in-law Earl (Jenni) Cotten, his nephews Trenton, Justin, Kolton, and Brendon Arndorfer, and Mark Cotten; his nieces Skylar (Will) Carlson and Sydney Cotten, many friends, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Vrieze, his father-in-law Randy Cotten, his paternal grandparents Harry and Winnie Vrieze, and his maternal grandparents Clarence and Lillian Gilbertson.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Mayo Clinic Hospice team, Nicole S., Anna, Miranda, Karen, Renee, Nicole G., Betsy, and Louisa, as well as Kevin’s provider, Dr. Nathan Young, for their compassionate care and support for Kevin and our family.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 12, from 4-7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, Minnesota. Burial will follow at Hamilton Cemetery, next to the family farm in Racine.
Kevin’s family will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories he shared with them. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In honor of Kevin, please feel free to wear his favorite color – red – to the celebration of life.
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