Leland “Lee” Norris Sundet was called home to his heavenly father at the age of 98 on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Lee was born March 14, 1928, in Spring Grove, Minnesota to Leander and Nora Sundet. He was raised by his mother on a farm south of Spring Grove with his two siblings after his father passed away. He grew up speaking Norwegian until attending a one-room country school, and later graduating from Spring Grove High School. He then attended the University of Minnesota, and graduated from the School of Agriculture. He started working during college for Century Manufacturing, and continued working there throughout his career.
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, Lee met Louise at the Spring Grove Homecoming. He knew instantly she was the one, so he asked her for three dates, until Louise finally agreed saying, “We’ll try one date.” The rest was history. They were married on August 26, 1951.
Throughout his life, he lived with the belief that “whatever we have, is a gift from God, and we are to do the best with what God has given us.” Lee lived and practiced the beliefs that he preached. He was a philanthropist and active in numerous organizations and ministries, impacting many lives and communities. He is remembered for his faith and love of his family and his devotion to his wife of 74 years.
Lee is survived by his wife Louise, their four children: Mary Belford, David (Barbara) Sundet, Scott Sundet, and Carol (Hugh) Sundet-Meeker; eight grandchildren: Alison Belford, Aaron Belford, Kate (Jason) Karja, Andrew (Elizabeth) Sundet, Michael (Kaylee) Sundet, Kristin (Casey) Pavek, Johnny (Hannah) Meeker, and Molly (Phil) White; and 20 beloved great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his sister DeLoris (Sundet) Besse, brother Harold Sundet, and daughter-in-law Cindy Trosen Sundet.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Lee’s name to Giants of the Earth Heritage Center, Norway House or Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 26 from 1-4 p.m. at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel located 5000 W 50th Street, Edina, MN 55436. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 27 at 11 a.m. at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, 5025 Knox Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55419. A live webcast or recorded service may be viewed at www.Washburn-McReavy.com. A short visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on July 27 at 10 a.m. The family invites you to join a luncheon following.
Leave a Reply