Russell Klint

Russell Klint, 82, of Willmar, died Friday, October 2 at his home. His memorial service will be 1:00 pm, Tuesday, October 6 at Tripolis Lutheran Church South of Kandiyohi. Visitation will be 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service, at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral in Willmar.  

Russell “Russ” Klint was born January 13, 1944, to Carlton and Sylvia (Helin) Klint in Willmar. He was baptized, confirmed, and was a lifelong member of Tripolis Lutheran Church, where he was proud to serve in many capacities. Russ grew up in the Willmar area, attending a country school near the Klint family farm in Fahlun Township. He later graduated from Willmar High School, in 1962. Following graduation, he attended Willmar Area Technical and Vocational School, where he met his future wife, Susan Wright. The couple was united in marriage on September 10, 1965, at Grace Lutheran Church in Lake Lillian. They were blessed with three children, Michelle, Shannon, and Karl, and made their home on the family farm, which had been farmed in continual succession since at least 1870. 

Russ began farming at a very young age, alongside his father and grandfather.  He took great pride in working the land throughout his life. He was particularly proud when the farm was recognized as a Century Farm, in 1976. During the 1980s, Russ also began driving truck over the road.  Making family time a priority, he would sometimes take Sue or the kids along with him, where they built lifelong memories -inspiring a love of travel in his family. He was proud of the fact that he was able to hold onto the farm to this day.  

Russ was passionate about farming, hunting, fishing, and cars. He made many elk hunting trips to Wyoming and Colorado.  His prize mount “Jake” is proudly displayed at the family cabin, near Pine River. He was especially proud of his deer mount, that when scored, qualified for and was recognized by the Boone and Crockett Club. In his younger years, he was a member of the Chauffeurs Car Club in Willmar, where they built cars, drag raced, and were active in town events. He was also a founding member of the senior service organization, Let’s Go Fishing. 

Above all, Russ cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He was happiest when spending time with family and loved supporting his grandchildren, attending their activities, and was proud of each and every one of their accomplishments. 

Russ went home to the Lord, on the family farm, looking out over the fields, (and his rebuilt ’73 Ford pickup), as the sun was rising over the farm site. He was fiercely independent, the life of any party, and lived fully until the very end. Russ is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sue; children Michelle (John) Beeman, Shannon (Tom Schmit) Klint, and Karl Klint; and grandchildren Dean, Skye, and Summer Schmit. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carlton and Sylvia; and his sister, Clarice Dahline. 

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