Earl was born 81 years ago to Anton and Ethel Hunstad in Marshall County near Argyle, MN. He was the second born of eight children - two girls and six boys.

 

Earl served in the Army as a linesman in Germany during WW II and returned to Argyle at the end of his tour. He worked on the family farm until he met Joyce Olson on the ice skating rink. He was so smitten that he bought a pair of ice skates and tried to keep up with her. They married in 1950 and traveled from town to town as he worked for Woodridge Construction.

 

In 1955 Earl and Joyce settled in New Brighton where their four children - Darlene, Jerry, Wayne and Dean - would grow up. Earl switched careers to work in air conditioning, refrigeration and heating. Although this was his full time occupation he was also a part time volunteer for the New Brighton police, fire and rescue.

 

Earl's life was his family and his church. They enjoyed many camping and fishing trips. He was active with his children and their interests. He was a scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts and helped with 4H projects. He also liked to bowl and go hunting.

 

As Earl's kids grew up he had a special spot in his heart for his grandchildren and his great granddaughter. He developed other interests that included Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES), Sons of Norway and VFW. Any chance he could get Earl would play cards. He especially loved cribbage.

 

He was a hard working, caring and giving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Earl has left a legacy of caring, compassion, and a love for the outdoors.