Stanley Alfred Stelter

Stanley Alfred Stelter, age 70, of Lynd, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 23, 2025. While his departure came far too soon for those who loved him, his life was full of joy, generosity, and laughter — just as he would have wanted it.

A celebration of Stanley’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Marshall, Minnesota. After a warm reception at the church, he will be laid to rest at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery in Island Lake Township. Visitation will be Sunday, April 27, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Hamilton Funeral Home in Marshall, with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. followed by a time to share memories. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Monday, at the church.

Stanley was born July 20, 1954, in Marshall, and grew up on the family farm in Island Lake Township. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church and graduated from Lynd High School in 1972. After earning a degree in computer science and electronics from Willmar Vocational College, Stanley served proudly in the United States Air Force.

On August 2, 1975, Stanley married the love of his life, Robin Groff, and they embarked on an adventurous start to their marriage, living in Idaho during his military service. When the call came to return home and care for the family farm, Stanley didn’t hesitate. He farmed with pride for many years, cared for cattle with quiet dedication, and was still doing both until the day he died. Stanley also worked for ADM in Marshall and retired in 2021.

Stanley was a dedicated community member — active in his church, serving on the council and cemetery board, a proud member of the Russell American Legion, and a frequent blood donor with the Red Cross. But if you knew Stanley, you knew it was his heart that truly stood out.

He loved chatting with anyone and everyone. His motto was “A stranger is just a friend I haven’t met yet.” Whether at a grandkid’s ballgame, a local auction, or just out and about, Stanley’s kindness and humor lit up the room. He had a passion for collecting clocks, pinball machines, Jägermeister memorabilia, and of course, anything featuring Joe Cool.

More than anything, Stanley loved his family. He and Robin shared nearly 50 years of marriage and raised four wonderful children. His grandkids were the light of his life, and cheering them on from the sidelines was one of his greatest joys. Stanley also had a soft spot for his four-legged sidekick, Max, who was always by his side or posted up as the unofficial farm supervisor.

Stanley’s absence leaves a big hole in many hearts, but the love, laughter, and lessons he shared will carry on for generations.

He is survived by his loving wife, Robin; 4 children and 12 grandchildren: Richard (Lisa) Stelter of Hartford, SD, with Mausten and Elle; Geoffrey (Tricia) Stelter of Marshall, with Lukas, Andrew, and Leah; Kristi (Jared) Steen of Orion, IL, with Wyatt, Bryce, Britton, and Jette; and Colin (Holly) Stelter of Lynd, with Brynn, Adilynn, and Maisie; his sister Sylvia (Julian “JD”) Drelich of Norwich, NY; as well as nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Stanley was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Ettie Stelter.

Stanley’s life was one well lived and well loved. May his memory be as bright and welcoming as the man himself. Blessed be his memory.