Leo John Kunkel

Leo Kunkel, age 54, of Milaca, passed away Saturday, August 27, 2022.  A memorial visitation will be from 4 - 5:30 PM on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at Peterson-Johnson Funeral Home, followed by a  prayer service and time of sharing memories at 5:30 PM.  Lunch will follow the service at the Longsiding Station.

Leo John Kunkel was born May 4, 1968 in Buffalo, MN to Leo “Tony” and Aggie (Flaschenriem) Kunkel.  He grew up on the family hobby farm outside of Rockford, MN.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Delano, MN and graduated from Rockford High School in 1986.  Growing up he enjoyed camping trips with his family, which stared his love of the outdoors and fishing.  In 2004, he moved to a hobby farm near Milaca, MN.  Leo was a craftsman at welding and he welded a beautiful staircase at his home. 

In 2017, he bought a home in Milaca with Martha Elizabeth Hansen and they enjoyed spending time by the river.  They were married in August 2022.  Leo spent his final days at home in the care of hospice, his wife, friends and family.  He was very loved.

He is survived by his wife, Martha;  children, Allie (Adam) Mueller and Wyatt (Naomi) Kunkel;  stepson, Michael Hansen;  grandchildren, Wesley and Finnley;  siblings, Rick (Julie) Flashenriem, Peter (Kathy) Kunkel, Mary (Todd) Schulze, Tim (Cindy) Kunkel, Ken (Monica) Kunkel;  godparents, David and Agnes Hennen;  also by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Anthony and Agatha Kunkel;  brother-in-law, David James Larsen and niece, Alanna Christine Manke.