Leslie R. Cobian

Our father, Leslie R. Cobian, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the age of 96.

Leslie was born on May 1, 1927 to Frank and Regina Cobian in Ellsworth, Wisconsin and grew up on the family farm. Upon completing daily chores he found enjoyment in hunting and fishing.

After graduating from Ellsworth High School, Les’ first job was as an electrician apprentice doing electrical wiring in the Dakota’s. It was during this time that he met Joanne Penor, who would become the love of his life. Les and Joanne married in 1953 and went on to have four children.

Les enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1950. During that time he attended twelve months of electronic schooling in Mississippi and was then assigned to the strategic air command in Rapid City, South Dakota. He attended additional schooling in Illinois to become efficient with B52 and B47 jet aircrafts. In 1955 he was discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. This brought him back to Minnesota where he had employment at 3M company, whereby he fulfilled a 36 year career, retiring at the age of 58.

Les, along with his wife, Joanne, enjoyed traveling, card playing, and spending their winters in Arizona. He truly enjoyed retirement making memories with family and friends.

Preceding Les in death were his parents, Frank and Regina Cobian, two sisters, Leona and Lenore, and two brothers, Lawrence and LaVerne, mother and father - in - law, Harry and Margaret Penor, son, Rick Cobian, and wife, Joanne Cobian.

Les is survived by his children, Randy (Susan) Cobian, Ron (Terri) Cobian, Renee (Tom) Lucking, and daughter - in - law, Jaci Cobian. He was a beloved grandpa to eight grandchildren, Vanessa (Jason), Shelby (Michael), Ryan (Kate), Rachel (Ethan), Garrett (Kayla), Natalie (Tyler), Leslie, and Jacob and two step - grandchildren, Mallory (Mark) and Stephen. His legacy also included 11 great - grandchildren, Zachary, Elaina, Davis, Joey, Nathan, Brooks, Ricki, Thomas, Piper, Banks, and Drew. In addition, he will be missed by his sister, Shirley Hei, brother - in - law, Dr. Robert Penor M.D., as well as close cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends from far and near.

Memories of Les will remain strong in the hearts of those he loved. His thoughtfulness, kindness, and witty sense of humor, along with his genuine connection and interest in the lives of his family and friends, was evident as he lived a life of true integrity.

Memorial Service will be 2:00 pm Sunday, June 25 at the Starkson Family life Celebration Chapel in Hastings with visitation two hours prior. A reception will follow the service and interment will be in the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery in Hastings.