Earl J. Habben

Earl J. Habben, 94, of Willmar, died Monday, October 13th at Bethesda Grand in Willmar. His funeral will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, October 22nd at United Methodist Church in Willmar with interment in Ebenezer Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Renville. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 pm, Tuesday, October 21st at Harvey Anderson-Johnson Funeral Home in Willmar and continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.   Military Honors will be provided by American Legion Post #167.  www.hafh.org

Earl was born December 20, 1930, on a farm near Renville, the son of Henry and Christine (Bakker) Habben. He grew up on the farm and graduated from Renville High School in 1948. While in high school, Earl was a three-sport athlete and was given the nickname, “Cobb.” He enlisted in the United States Navy and served stateside for four years.  Following his discharge, he returned to Minnesota.  He attended the University of Minnesota for ½ year before going to St. Cloud Teacher’s College where he eventually earned his degree.

He was introduced to Marlyce Wolff in January of 1955, proposed to her in July and on October 16, 1955, they were united in marriage at Bird Island Methodist Church. They moved to Willmar and were blessed with three children, Melany, Jon and Robbie.  Earl taught 6th grade for Willmar Public Schools, eventually retiring in 1990. Earl said, “There are three reasons to be a teacher, June, July and August!”  During that time, you could find him at the Tribune, manning Miller Park, or teaching summer school.

Earl was known for pulling a few pranks, telling a joke or two, giving people nicknames that lasted a lifetime. Earl cherished the time spent with his coffee buddies. He and Marlyce were able to enjoy almost 30 years wintering in Fort Myers where they enjoyed the MN Twins spring training and Robbie’s family and their activities.  They also were fortunate enough to be able to travel extensively following retirement.

Surviving are his children, Melany Souther of Willmar; Jon (Lori) Habben of Avon, and Robbie Habben of Homestead, FL; grandchildren: Lydia (Jason) Kelly, Emily Souther, Rachel (Kyle) Burg, Drew Habben, Cohen Habben, Tiffany Shiro, and Nyrobie Habben; great-grandchildren: Addie, Taiton (Karli), Ciera (Rylee), Willow, Jett, Ryder, Piper, Olive, Camden, Lila, and Navy. Also surviving are his great great grandson, Brooks and one on the way in January.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Marlyce on February 25, 2024; brother and sister-in-law, Lyle (Barbara), and great-great grandson, Dechlan.

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