Hugh E. Walstad

Hugh E. Walstad, age 82, of Hastings, passed peacefully on October 17, 2024.

Born in Benson, MN and raised in Willmar, MN as the eldest of 7 children, he developed a passion for music, guitar and singing. He played football for Willmar Senior High School and after graduating in 1960 joined the Army and served as an MP in Korea for 13 months.

He married the love of his life Sherry in 1968. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota Morris, worked for the State of MN Job Service until retirement and resided in Hastings the last 16 years.

Throughout his life he loved to perform at gatherings and events, sharing his strong faith, lighthearted sense of humor and talent for singing and guitar playing.

He is preceded in death by his son, Dion Walstad; parents, Clarence and Catherine (O’Brien) Walstad; brother, Loren Walstad; sister, Mary Walstad; brother-in-law, Russel Knudson; and by his mother-in-law, Myrnetta Knudson.

Hugh is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sherry Walstad; children, Tracy (Isabel) Walstad, Jason (Jeri) Walstad; 8 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; siblings, Kaye (Wally) Hames, Steve (Carolyn) Walstad, Brian Walstad, Grace Castleberry; and by many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Hastings with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment with Military Honors provided by the Fort Snelling Honor Guard at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Due to construction at church, please use the West entrance near Mother Seton Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.