Leo A. Stoltz, 99, of Caledonia, Minn., passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, July 16, 2023.
Leo was born on May 25, 1924, in Caledonia to Joseph and Dorothy Stoltz. He was the oldest of four children.
After graduating from Loretto High School, Leo began dairy farming in rural Caledonia where he raised award-winning Jersey cattle on the DoMorJersey farm.
In 1949, he made what he refers to as the best decision of his life, when he married Barbara (Betty) Romie. They were blessed with a large and loving family of 13 children. Leo was a wonderful, devoted father, husband, and mentor.
After Leo retired from farming, he became an exceptional woodworker, building hand-made furniture and items for his family. In true farmer’s fashion, he was always there to lend a helping hand, build a custom item and help with projects.
Leo is survived by his loving wife Betty of 74 years, children Gary (Linda) Stoltz, Rosie Stoltz (daughter in-law), Dianne (Mark) Gerard, Nancy Stoltz, Kenneth (Colleen) Stoltz, Shirley (Gary) Kruckow, Sandra (Gary) Klinski, James Stoltz (Nancy Steele), William Stoltz, Julie (Charles) Kruse, Barbara (Tony) Madden, Richard (Susan) Stoltz and Jane (Doug) Schmitz; 32 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren.
Leo is preceded in death by his parents, his son Thomas, great-granddaughter Leah, grandson Brett, and siblings Alma (Runingen), Rosine (Bauer), and Carol (Gavin).
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Monday, July 24 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia. Visitation will be from 9–10:45 a.m. prior to the church service at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall. Luncheon and time of fellowship will take place following the service.
A special thank you to the Gundersen Hospice team for their loving care and support during his final days.
McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family. Online condolences maybe given at mccormickfuneralhome.net.