Edward Henry Willert

EDWARD HENRY WILLERT, age 91, of New Richland, died on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Home in Albert Lea. 

Born on October 10, 1933, in rural Ellendale, he was the son of Edward and Ida (Rubenow) Willert. Ed received his education in a schoolhouse in rural Steele County before being called home to help his dad farm. He continued to farm for many years alongside his father and eventually retired from farming. Ed then spent many years selling cars in southern Minnesota with several business partners. Then he ventured into selling hog equipment before he began working at the canning factory in Faribault. He enjoyed going to auctions, gambling, and buying and selling miscellaneous items. After going blind, Ed had a set routine he watched on TV: Wheel of Fortune, Price is Right, Jeopardy and Deal or No Deal. He passed time watching John Wayne movies and other shows, especially The Curse of Oak Island. He also enjoyed the news and was a lifelong fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins.

Although he could be stubborn at times, Ed had a heart of gold, opening his doors to give others a safe space. Ed took Christine Lamaack in as a teenager. He was there to help when Christine’s son, Calvin was born. Edward was a father figure in both their lives until his passing. His neighbors and many others in the community referred to him fondly as “Uncle Eddy”. He will be dearly missed. 

Ed is survived by his small community, including Charles Hedderich (formerly Christine Lamaack) and Tayla Kelly (formerly Calvin Lamaack); their beloved family cat, Elsa, grand-cat Callie and grand-dog Risa, and other friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and all of his near family members. Edward was the end of his family line.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM on Monday, November 18, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church in rural Ellendale with Pastor Billie Jo Wicks officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.