Service Information
Kevin J. Hjerpe, age 55, of Hutchinson, Minnesota, passed away on Saturday, November 30th, 2019, at his home in Hutchinson.
Funeral Service will be held Saturday, December 7th, 2019, at 10:00 A.M. at Faith Lutheran Church in Hutchinson with interment in the Redwood Falls Cemetery in Redwood Falls, Minnesota.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 6th, 2019, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Dobratz-Hantge Chapel in Hutchinson. Visitation will continue from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M., one hour prior to the service, at the church on Saturday.
Please visit https://crowriverfloral.net/ to order floral arrangements.
Obituary
Kevin James Hjerpe was born on April 28, 1964, in Fergus Falls, MN. He was the son of Howard and Marilyn (Wareberg) Hjerpe. Kevin was baptized at First English Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, MN and was confirmed in his faith at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Redwood Falls, MN. He received his education in Redwood Falls and was a graduate of the Lincoln High School Class of 1982. Kevin went on to further his education at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, graduating in May of 1986 with his Bachelor of Arts degree in English.
After graduation, Kevin worked in heavy equipment construction with his father Howard at Hjerpe Corporation of Redwood Falls. In July 1988, he traveled to Tokyo, Japan to teach English grammar at Yasuda High School. While living in Japan, he also served as an English language tutor and editor. Throughout his life, Kevin worked for several companies in writing and editing, including Hjerpe Contracting of Hutchinson, MN; Augsburg Fortress Publishers of Minneapolis, MN; CSC Publishing of Richfield, MN; Norwest Bank (Wells Fargo) of St. Louis Park, MN; and Rickert Excavating, formerly of Brownton, MN. Kevin did not know a stranger and went out of his way to make guests feel welcome.
Kevin had a lively sense of humor, a sensitive heart, and a great affection for his nieces and nephews. He had a passion for collecting rare rocks and swords, playing piano, listening to music, watching horse races and movies, and throwing competitive darts. A life-changing car accident in 2003 did not dampen Kevin’s love for NASCAR Racing, and he went on to attend several speedway events over the years with his friends. Kevin always loved a good meal--especially spicy curry!--and he developed a love for making family recipes in his recent years. Kevin also invented a few of his own recipes, including his infamous “Apple Pie,” made from the fruit of his own apple tree.
Kevin passed away suddenly and too soon at his home in Hutchinson on Saturday, November 30, 2019. He was 55 years old, and he will be greatly missed by the family and friends who love him.
Blessed be the memory of Kevin James Hjerpe.
Kevin is survived by his:
Mother, Marilyn (Hjerpe) Fuhr and her husband, Darrell, of Hutchinson, MN;
Brothers, Kurt Hjerpe and his wife, Ramona, of Hutchinson, MN,
Kris Hjerpe and his wife, Jennifer of Tempe, AZ;
Nieces and Nephews, Kaitlin (Nikki) Spencer, Rev. Alexandra (Nash) Smith, Meghan Hjerpe,
Benjamin Hjerpe, Wyatt Hjerpe, Waylon Hjerpe, Wade Hjerpe, and Willow Hjerpe;
Aunt, Carol (Hjerpe) Klug;
Special Friend, Max Theroux;
And many other close friends, family, colleagues and classmates.
Kevin is preceded in death by his Father, Howard Hjerpe; Grandparents, Omar and Estella Wareberg and William and Fern Hjerpe; and Infant Niece, Rachel Jean Hjerpe.
The family invites everyone to the luncheon at the church immediately following the funeral service. For all who are able to travel, internment will follow at 1:30 pm at Redwood Falls Cemetery in Redwood Falls, MN.
Joan Woelfel & Kevin Sinclair says
Marilyn & family
You have our sympathy.
Hugs to all of you during this difficult time.
Jeff Hauswirth says
Thoughts and prayers for the Hjerpe family.
David LeBrun says
So sorry for your loss. Prayers to the entire Hjerpe family.
LuAnn Zellmann says
Marilyn & Family,
Kevin always walked into my music classroom with such a bright smile and charming personality. Marilyn, I know you have a strong faith (you were my excellent Bethel Bible Series teacher) and know God is taking care of Kevin, but the separation is so painful. I am so sorry you have to feel this deep loss.
Lots of love,
LuAnn Zellmann
Ron and Sylvia Rockvam says
Our sympathies to the entire Hjerpe family.
Dale Seime says
With deepest sympathy as you remember Kevin. Prayers for the Hjerpe family during this heartfelt time.
Amy, Jeff & Max says
Thinking of you all at this most difficult of times. Love to all.
Jody Becker says
Love and prayers to the Hjerpe family during this time of loss
Andrea Gerth says
Marilyn and Family,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Kevin’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts during this sad time.
Andrea and Randy Gerth
Amy Hertling-Johnson says
I’m shocked and saddened by this tragic news. My sincere condolences to the entire Hjerpe family. You’ll be close in my thoughts and prayers.
Renee Worringer says
To the Hjerpe family
I am so shocked and so sorry for your loss. I knew Kevin since St Olaf days but I think we became closer friends after that, when a few of us lived in Minneapolis around the same time. Kevin was always game for a get-together with lots of loud music! After I moved to Japan to work, Kevin came over and worked there at the same place with me and stayed on after I returned to the US. We had plenty of laughs in Tokyo. I remember when your family all came to visit Kevin – he being the short one in the family, it was a striking image to see you all on the Tokyo train surrounded by many surprised Japanese riders! He and another friend came to visit when I was in Chicago, and I think the last time I probably saw him was at a friend’s wedding. We exchanged a few emails over the years but didn’t live in the same area anymore. I will truly miss Kevin’s genuine and kind-hearted spirit, as well as his boisterous sense of humor. My deepest condolences on your loss.
the Hitchcocks’ says
Our condolences to the Hjerpe family. Kevin was a great guy; relish the great memories we all have of him.
Christopher Hopkins says
Kevin has and always will hold a special place in my heart.
Everybody admired Kevin. He was our class golden boy. He never went through an ugly stage, like the rest of us. He developed from the adorable bright light of a blue-eyed blonde, into perfectly proportioned man of beauty and grace. I’m pretty sure he never had a pimple.
He was a stellar athlete, a talented musician, a wordsmith, and a storyteller. From elementary vocal groups, through shared homerooms, into percussion, and moving pianos for the Music Store, I heard many Kevin Hjerpe stories. Whether the stories were the absolute truth, I was never sure but didn’t care. He made me laugh and made me feel better about myself.
We remained friends into St. Olaf and for several years as my client who loved his flat top!
In time, we lost touch, aside from sporadic emails. My last email from Kevin was in 2005. Though he kept his cards close to his chest, this time, he let his guard down. In it, he expressed his admiration… FOR ME!
I will savor that compliment always from the man that I grew up so much wanting to be.
He was a fine gentleman.
But I WAS a half-inch taller!
Rick and Janet Ellingworth says
Marilyn, Kurt, Kris and Family,
We were deeply saddened to learn of your tragic news. Kevin was such a wonderful person and so easy to love. An exemplary person in every way and a joy to have in class and to work with in athletics. He was a gifted athlete and as others have said, such a big part of all that was good. Please know all of you are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Most kindly and respectfully,
Rick and Janet Ellingworth
Marilyn Bernhardson says
Marilyn and family:
I am so sorry for your loss! Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers! When the Lord called Kevin home, he left a gift of memories for you! I still remember when my beloved Wally passed away you passed on Jeremiah 29:11&12. May you also find comfort in these verses at this time.
Love, Marilyn
Vijay Mehrotra says
I am shocked and saddened to hear this news. Kevin was a college friend from St. Olaf who generously allowed me to share the house on Irving St. with him (and Lindsay and Paul) during the summer of 1987, just before I moved to California. I will be forever grateful for his kindness and his friendship. Condolences to the whole family.
Jan & Loren says
You have our sincere sympathy in your loss. We will remember you in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Rolloff says
My deepest sympathy Marilyn, to you and your family.
Karen Rolloff
Scott and Kim Olafson says
Thoughts and Prayers to the Hjerpe family during this difficult time.
Lindsey Ramey says
Dear Marilyn, Kurt and Kris, and family,
My heart goes out to all of you. I was shocked and saddened to hear the news. Kevin was one of my favorite classmates at St. Olaf College. He was funny, talented, handsome, and kind. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs to you all.
Much Love,
Lindsey (Larsen) Ramey
Jody Dingmann Foust says
Hjerpe Family
I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Kevin. He was such a kind soul who always had a smile on his face. My deepest condolences go out to your family. You are in my prayers.
Pastor Bill Klavetter says
Our sympathy to you Marilyn and your family. As you are surrounded by the love and support of family and friends may God’s promises and love hold each of you close. You are in our prayers.
Pastor Bill & Arli Klavetter
Dolly and Bill Niemann says
Dear Marilyn, Kris, Kurt and entire Hjerpe family-
Our deepest sympathy to you all at this time of immeasurable sadness and loss.
With love- The Niemann Family
Bob and Barb Johnson says
We have fond memories of watching Kevin play high school basketball with Bob’s brother, Tim. Know that we are thinking of your family during this difficult time.
With sincere sympathy,
Bob and Barb Johnson
Julie says
Dear Marilyn, Kris, Kurt and family,
My heart goes out to you as you mourn the shocking loss of Kevin. He was always quick with a smile, a good story and of course a listening ear. May the memories of his love for family help you through this difficult time.
Thinking of you,
Julie Gordon
Sue Moline says
Sending prayers to the entire Hjerpe family during this difficult time. What a loss! May you gather together to share fond memories & stories of his life!
Audrey Williams says
I am sending prayers to everyone!
Kevin was a big part of my life as we used to talk and laugh just about everyday. He is so missed.
Audrey
Mark Trefry says
We all send many thoughts and prayers to Kevin’s family, relatives, friends, classmates, and teammates. God bless you all in this time of grief.
When the best athlete on your team is making everyone feel welcome you have teamwork. When the most talented player is making sure all are having fun you have unity. When your MVP is motivating all to play their best you have championships. And when your award winning teammate is also showing real sportsmanship you have lasting leadership.
Thank you Kevin for all the above and the fellowship you shared with your Cardinal teammates and coaches. Rest in peace.
Cathy Zander says
I have thought of Kevin so much this week.. he was a kind hearted classmate who treated everyone the same. All my thoughts and prayers to your family. Cathy “Pullen” Zander
Maurice Newman says
Deeply shocked and saddened by the death of a dear, good friend. Much missed already and never to be forgotten by Maurice, Anne and their boys in Dublin.
Jerome Vikse says
May my sympathies go out to the families close to Kevin Hjerpe. What a shock
Mark & Lee Ann Erie says
Marylin and Family,
We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Kevin. All of my memories of him are positive. His personality and his sense of humor were unique to Kevin. I will remember him always as a fun loving kind and humorous individual.
You and the whole family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob Young says
Marilyn, Kurt, Kris and family. Know this About Kevin. He was the guy we all aspired to be. His smile lit up the room. He was humorous and had an infectious laugh. He was kind and a friend to all. My only regret with Kevin is that I didn’t get to spend more time around him. I moved away in 8th grade. Rest in peace my friend.
My deepest sympathy
Bob Young
Rick Farmer says
So sorry and sad to hear about the loss of Kevin. As a kid growing up in the “Sunnyside” of town and seeing him walk by the house and always saying Hi or waving hello. I’ll never forget him pretending to take off a hat rolling it down to his foot and kicking it in my direction. Thoughts and prayers are with the Hjerpe family.
Doug & Carol Ward says
Marilyn, Kurt &Kris family
I am really sorry to hear about Kevin.
Kevin was so kind hearted and a top notch athelete. I really enjoyed coaching Kurt and Kevin, and I just can not believe he has left us. I was really proud of both boys and the state track championship Kevin and team mates obtained in 1981.
We are praying for you all during this difficult time.
Doug & Carol Ward
Andy Mason & Julie Risser says
If we’re judged by the smiles we leave behind, Kevin would be the champ! He was so good at sparking a lively conversation filled with observation, debate, and richly detailed stories.
Andy met Kevin in his first job in the Twin Cities – Augsburg Fortress – around 1989 when crosswords needed solving. Julie met Kevin when she met Andy. We’ve played darts, played Whist and War (learned about the barking under the table tradition), and toasted many a happy occasion. We have so many great memories of times at the house on Irving, the house in Richfield, and his digs in Hutch. Good times all around. We miss him so much – his wit, his way with words, and his big heart. Next time we play cards, we will think of Kevin, leaning back in his chair, looking around, observing, “hmm … somebody’s lying!”
Here’s to you Special K!
Garrett Krueger says
I was very sorry to read this sad and truly unexpected news! Kevin was certainly a fascinating guy to know! My thoughts are with the family though this difficult time.
Garrett Krueger
David and Jan Madson says
Our thoughts and prayers go to the Hjerpe family as Kevin will be missed by everyone that knew him.
Kevin always held a special place in our hearts, as he was a frequent guest in our home during his 20s.
I will cherish the memories of teaching and coaching Kevin, a young man with talent in so many areas. Part of Kevin’s charm was that he was cool, and he didn’t know it.
He was extremely humble, respectful, and exemplary as a student athlete and as an adult. Kevin was always quick to praise others, never drawing attention to himself. We will miss our friend Kevin.
Blessings to your family.
David and Jan Madson
Marilyn Fuhr says
Our sincere and grateful thanks to all of you for your kind and meaningful expressions of sympathy. VERY much appreciated,
Marilyn and family
David LeBrun says
So very sorry for your loss.
Based on all the wonderful replies he hadn’t changed a bit. My fondest memory of Kevin was the fact that we grew up on “different sides of the track” but he never treated me any different. He was very encouraging when I was trying to get my life together, join track and football and stay out of trouble. He made me feel comfortable in that transition on the track and on the football field. He was a natural leader.(Mark Trefry said it very well with his kind words). He was to me, one of those people that you thought, couldn’t have everything AND be so kind. But he most definitely was. Peace in heaven Kevin.