Willie Minkel

Willie Minkel was one of those guys ready to greet you with a warm hug, a strong handshake, and most certainly with a broad smile. Always willing to see the best in people, his generous spirit will be missed by many. Willie died peacefully at his home on May 18, 2022 at age 91.  

Willie was born and raised in Pemberton, MN and spent most of his adult life in Mankato, MN. Married to Phyllis Nelson on December 15, 1949, they raised two children, Brad Minkel (Rockford, IL) and Barb Minkel-Dusek (Apple Valley, MN). Willie and Phyllis were married for 68 years prior to her death in February of 2018.

Long-time member and active volunteer with the Mankato Moose Lodge Willie and Phyllis enjoyed socializing and traveling to sister lodges across Minnesota where you’d often find them gliding across the dance floor. When not volunteering or dancing, you might find them tossing a bowling ball or playing several hands of Pinochle or Buck Uker. Willie was a life-long member at First Presbyterian Church in Mankato and he worked for many years at Midwest Frozen Food Distributors.

Willie is survived by his two children, Brad (Deb) Minkel and Barb (John) Dusek, grandchildren Nadene (Nick) Weil and Brian Minkel, Shannon Sowl and Jeremy (Nikki) Sowl, Tabitha Lunning, and Amanda Suter. Great grandchildren Zoe, Reid, Eve, Aubrey, Riley, Devin, Savannah, Oliver, Ella, and Weston. And great-great granddaughter Astraea. His sister Elverna Tuenge, many beloved nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, June 17, 2022 at 2:00 PM at White Funeral Home in Apple Valley, MN with a visitation happening one hour prior to service at 1:00 PM. Memorials are preferred to one of Willie’s favorite charities, the MOMS Program of Burnsville MN. 

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