Laurald Joseph (Larry) Afseth Sr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, in the presence of his wife and family in Chatfield, Minn.
Laurald Joseph Afseth Sr. was born on September 15, 1937, to Julius and Beulah Afseth (Kemple) in Preston, Minn. Larry grew up on the family farm just west of Preston, Minn. He attended school in Preston, Minn., before leaving to work on the farm and haul canned milk. In 1957, Larry married the love of his life, Delores Alden. Larry and Delores had one beloved son, Joe, who was born in 1959. Larry worked the family farm and hauled milk through the late 1980s before becoming a full-time truck driver and milk hauler. Following his retirement, Larry spent time in Minnesota and Iowa, often providing rides to those in need transportation.
Larry was a well known member of his community. He seemingly knew everyone’s name and could tell you where everyone lived if you took a ride with him through Fillmore County or the surrounding areas. Always happy to start a conversation, Larry was often quick to humor or give a nickname. He loved his family and had great energy for his friends. Though frequently private with his emotions, Larry was a gentle and caring man underneath his tough exterior.
Larry is survived by his wife Delores (Alden) Afseth of Preston, Minn., his grandson Adam Afseth and wife Nancy Chu of Minneapolis, Minn., and his granddaughter Marli (Afseth) Hart and her husband Ian Hart and their two children Lillian and Mason Hart of Irvine, Calif. He is also survived by his sister Ruth (Afseth) Wendt and her husband John Wendt. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by his father and mother Julius and Beulah Afseth, his sister Evelyn Afseth, and his son Laurald Joseph (Joe) Afseth Jr.
Visitation and funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at the Preston United Methodist Church, 212 St. Anthony St. N, Preston, Minn. 55965. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. followed by the funeral at 12 p.m. A fellowship luncheon will follow at 1 p.m.