"I am grateful for the opportunity to express how blessed I felt to get the chance to work with Steve. I take kids from the St Charles senior class to Chicago each year. On the years when I was lucky enough to have Steve as my driver, I got a lesson in how to live life. Steve was always so gracious about everything. He appreciated the chance to talk with kids and he related well with them. He also took his role as a driver seriously, knowing that the safety of a lot of people depended on him. In that way he showed his servant's heart and his genuine concern for others. If I had an extra ticket Steve would sit by me at a game or a play and we would talk. He loved his kids and shared lots of stories about them, as well as his grandchildren. He wanted the next generation to love and appreciate this world in the way he did. After his wife died, the pain of loss was glaringly apparent. He wore it without apology, letting me see the depth of his love. I could have sat with Steve forever just listening to his wisdom. And he was always so complimentary to others when he saw the goodness in them. I would like to say to all of Steve's family, you had an amazing father, a man we should all try to emulate. I will miss my yearly visits with him, as I'm sure you do too. He was one of the finest people I have ever met. Sincerely, Mike Smith"
In loving memory of
Steven Redalen
January 22, 1951 - December 1, 2019
Steven Orley Redalen, age 68, passed away peacefully December 1, 2019. He was born January 22, 1951 to Elton and Joyce (Grindland) Redalen, the fourth of seven children, and grew up in Root Prairie in rural Lanesboro. Steve attended Wadden Valley School and Lanesboro High School and was exceedingly fond of both, often telling stories of his times there. If ever the opportunity arose, he was quite full of stories of the old days, particularly those of growing up with his siblings and cousins.
Steve was admittedly shy as a youngster, but in the summer of 1969 he met Peggi, who encouraged him not to make himself so scarce. After he received permission to drive her home from the fair, they began their two-year courtship and were soon married. By 1978, they had welcomed Aaron and Kirsten into the brood and a year later returned to the valley where Peggi had grown up to raise their family. The farm and kids were the catalyst for many adventures, some ridiculous and others we can't mention. Steve's greatest adventures through the years though, following the addition of daughter-in-law, Michele, and son-in-law Joel, were with his grandchildren Evin, Lauren, Emma, Alex, Logan, Charlie, Ada, Kathleen, and Emelia. Papa was full of snuggles, words of wisdom, endless fun, and never, ever said, "No." Being "Papa," he often said, was his greatest achievement.
A kinder, more compassionate man was never found. He loved unconditionally, frequently had deep conversations, and never refused anyone in need. He was generous and forgiving to a fault, and giving to others brought him joy. He was a faithful servant to his God and enjoyed the occasional two-mile walk home from church on Sunday, hand in hand, discussing the sermon when his daughter was young, and sharing life lessons with his son, drawing upon everything that resonated with him, from Zen Buddhism to Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure ("Be excellent to each other!" was a particular favorite). He was never one to complain, but would let you know if you were being ridiculous (though always gently, and with apology.)
Steve had a well-known smile that lit up a room. It was part Minnesotan Lutheran hospitality and part shenanigans. He was practical in every sense and had a method for everything from working in his woods to making sure the refuse bin was emptied in a proper and timely manner. He was easily caught up in helping others with projects or activities... until the era of the afternoon nap was ushered in. From that point, naps, pecan caramel clusters, and coffee were standard.
Steve is survived by son Aaron (Michele) Redalen, daughter Kirsten (Joel) Zoellner, many grandchildren, "German son" Paul Viehauser, brothers Gary (Beth) Redalen, Donald (Penny) Redalen), Jeff (Michelle) Redalen, sister Jane (Joe) O'Koren, and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and mother-in-law Margie Schueler. He was preceded in death by his wife, Peggi, mother, father, sister Sharon (Donald) Asleson, and brother Craig (Sue) Redalen.
A private family burial will be held next spring at Oakwood Sherwood Cemetery in Rushford. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Root River Community Church in Rushford, with a memorial service to follow.
Tributes
"Deepest sympathy to the Redalen family. Very sorry for your loss."
"What a Great guy that will be extremely missed. Got to know Steve when I worked at the bank. I enjoyed visiting with him. Had just seen him recently and had a nice talk. He will be missed. Robin Jandt"
"So very sorry to hear of Steve's passing. His laugh and the twinkle in his eye will always be remembered. His kindness and compassion as he helped people rebuild after the flood was a godsend. The family he and Peggi created are a lasting tribute to their lives. Thank you for sharing him with us for these brief moments. Peace and loving memories to you all. "
"Sorry to learn of Steve's passing. I remember Steve from the early 80's when Steve was an Agency Manager with Farm Bureau Insurance. I had the opportunity to work with Steve and his agents. He was well respected by his agents and the other managers from across the state of Minnesota. I enjoyed talking with Steve and had some serious discussions and had time for some laugh as well."
"I will miss our long conversations about our travels. What a great guy !!"
"To Steve's Family; What a great friend. I got to know Steve and Peggy best attending our Bible Study Cell meetings for several years. He was a very dedicated Christian. He not only" talked the talk but he really did walk the walk". Bettie Lou and I had our last visit with Steve at the Oakwood Sherwood Cemetery last Summer, while we stood looking at Peggy's grave. Yes, Steve will be missed . May the Good Lord help each of you cope with such a great loss. Rob & Bettie Lou Bunke"
"My sympathy to the family. Steve was a great guy/cousin. Good memories from growing up in the Root Prairie farm community."
"My sympathy to the Redalen family. Steve was such a blessing and miracle worker in the Rushford community after the flood in ?07. He helped so many people, saving many homes from tear-down. I remember he said he wanted to keep the older homes to keep Rushford?s character. He will be missed."
"Kirsten and family I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers be with you at this time."