Eugene John Prechel

Eugene John Prechel passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, June 26th, at the age of 91. He was born on August 19, 1933, in Springfield, MN. He lived a good, long life, beloved by many for his ability to remember names, make someone feel like a good friend within minutes, and his wacky sense of humor.

Born in the middle of 12 siblings, he grew up working on the family farm. Eugene graduated from Springfield High School and then moved to Redwood Falls. On June 1, 1957, at 24 years of age, he married Margaret (Marge) Krause of Comfrey. In Redwood Falls, he used his initiative and outgoing, friendly personality to sell fuel to farmers for Midland Oil. Gene bought a trucking transfer depot, named Gene’s Transfer. In 1976, they bought Hoot Owl Resort ten miles west of Itasca Park. Eugene was always active in his local church, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Redwood Falls, Lake Grove Lutheran Church and Trinity Lutheran in Waubun, and finally at First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes. Gene participated in many civic organizations, including Jaycees in Redwood Falls and launching the local volunteer fire department in Elbow Lake. He was respected as a generous man, always willing to help a neighbor or lost snowmobiler.

Gene is survived by his wife of 68 years, Marge, and his children: Jan of Detroit Lakes (Joe), Lynda of Hudson, WI (Jim), and Steve/Woody of Eagan, and his five grandchildren: Jeremy Coudron (wife Dawn, children Piper and Lincoln), Kari Schultz (husband Lance, children Leona and Emerson), Chris Coudron (husband Ben), Jake Anderson (wife Janna, children Hunter and Jamison), and TJ Albanese (fiancé Lauriane). He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jolene Monforte.

Gene lived a long and fulfilling life, surrounded by many friends who never felt like strangers.

A Celebration of Life will be held later. In the comments below, please include your text phone number or email address so that we can notify you.

Donations may be made to https://www.alz.org/mnnd in memory of Gene Prechel.