Leroy F. von Berge

Obituary

Leroy Fred von Berge was born on October 23, 1929, to Herbert and Malinda (Hoernemann) von Berge, at their farm in rural Plato, McLeod County. Leroy was baptized as an infant in October of 1929 and later confirmed in his faith as a youth in April of 1943, both at Friedens United Church of Christ (County Line) in rural Norwood Young America, Minnesota.  He attended Plato Public School from 1935 to 1943, completing eighth grade, and went on to finish high school at Glencoe (1943–1947). After graduation, Leroy farmed with his father and local neighbors.

Leroy served two years in the army, including a year stationed in Korea, from September 1951 to August 1953. He was stationed at Camp Gordon, Georgia, and Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. He received the Korean Service Medal. Upon returning, he purchased his own farm close to Plato. He met Joyce at the Marigold Ballroom in Minneapolis, and they were married by Reverend Iseli on October 12, 1957, at Friedens County Line Church, making their home on Leroy’s farm. The couple had three children: Diane Leonard, Barbara Kiel, and Steven. Tragically, Steven passed away in a bike accident in July 1970.

Leroy operated a dairy farm, milking cows for over 32 years. He sold the herd in 1986 and then rented out the land. He managed all aspects of dairy farming from 1954 to 1986 until retiring. Leroy was an active member of Frieden’s United Church of Christ, serving several times on the church council. He was also affiliated with the American Legion.

Leroy loved collecting and restoring vintage Ford tractors from the 1950s and enjoyed group travel tours to places such as Germany and Alaska. In winter, he liked doing puzzles and meeting fellow retired farmers for coffee and conversation. Leroy enjoyed playing cards, especially 500 and sheepshead.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Peace Village Assisted Senior Living—the Haven—and Allina Hospice staff for their compassionate care. They thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and kindness during this difficult time. The family hopes you will share the love, joy, and happiness Leroy brought into your life with others. God bless.

Leroy is survived by
Daughters, Diane Leonard and her husband, Kevin, Barbara Kiel and her husband, Don;
Grandchildren, Matthew Leonard and his significant other, Darbi Berkman, Michael Leonard, Laura Leonard and her husband, Logan Salner, Brandon Kiel and his wife, Emerald, Nicole Kiel;
Great-Grandchildren, Shane Leonard and Haley Leonard;
Siblings, Harold Von Berge, Vernon Von Berge, Marlene Kroells;
Numerous nieces and nephews.

Leroy was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce von Berge; son, Steven von Berge; parents, Herbert and Malinda von Berge; and sisters-in-law, Muriel Von Berge, Marlys Von Berge; brother-in-law, Wallace Kroells.