Wayne O. Netland

Wayne Netland, a lifelong resident of the Sunburg area, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the age of 77, at his home, on March 19, 2026.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 27 at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church in Spicer.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, March 26 and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Burial will take place in Our Lady of the Lakes Cemetery.

A recording of the service is available for viewing below.

Wayne was born on June 27, 1948, to Lloyd and Vernita (Wrigg) Netland. Wayne was baptized and confirmed at the East Norway Lake Lutheran Church. In 1968, Wayne was confirmed into the Catholic faith. He graduated from Kerkhoven High School in 1966 and went on to attend Willmar Technical College for Ag Production, graduating in 1967. In 1968, Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Denise Krattenmaker. They were blessed with 58 years of marriage and two children Christopher and Tracey.

Wayne dedicated his life to farming starting at a young age when his father passed away.   He took great pride and value in working the land. He enjoyed taking a drive to check on the freshly planted fields often saying, “isn’t it beautiful, can you smell the dirt”. Farming was always on his mind, and he loved talking about it. He led an exemplary life of hard work, strong dedication to family, and integrity.  His children and grandchildren will forever be grateful for the guidance and the example he set.

Wayne served on the Belgrade Co-op Board of Directors for six years and enjoyed this time with other locals farmers and businessmen.

Wayne faced a heart attack at a young age, but his determination to work the land never wavered. He poured his passion, drive, and stubbornness into every spring planting and fall harvest. His “never give up” attitude defined him, no matter the challenge.

Everything changed after a tragic mishap with a tractor, but even then, Wayne’s willpower was remarkable. From enduring surgeries to pushing through physical therapy, he was determined to walk out of that rehabilitation center—and he did. Though he could no longer truly farm, Wayne stayed involved in every way he could. His strength, resilience, and tenacious spirit inspired everyone around him and drove him to live life fully, right to the end.

Wayne had the very best “Minnesota goodbye.” Whether he was walking a guest out to their car, lingering by his truck after a visit, or stretching out a phone call just a little longer, his goodbyes were never rushed. Each one was simply another chance to connect, to share a few more words, and to enjoy the moment. Wayne truly valued time with others, and he cherished every visit with family and friends.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Denise; son, Christopher (Teresa) Netland; daughter, Tracey (Craig) Swanson; grandchildren, Abigail (Eann) Johnson, Hunter (fiancé, Bailey) Swanson, Chloe Swanson, Nathaniel Netland and Ava Netland; brothers, Arlen (Michelle) Netland and Galen (Martina) Netland; sisters-in-law, Darlene (John) Loven and Diane (Gary) Gronseth; along with nieces, nephews, and many special friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Netland and Vernita Olson; stepfather, Kermit Olson; brothers, Bruce (Merry) Netland and Larry (Louise) Netland; and father and mother-in-law Harlen and Delores Krattenmaker.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne O. Netland, please visit our floral store.