Ervin Rocholl

Ervin Rocholl, 87, formerly of Maine Twp., died Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Hadley House in Perham, MN. 

Ervin Rocholl, a beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather and lifelong farmer, passed away peacefully on August 9th, 2024. Born March 20, 1937 at his country home near Heilberger Lake, the son of Henry and Irene (Kugler) Rocholl. Ervin dedicated his life to nurturing both his family and the land. His unwavering commitment to his loved ones and the farm he cultivated for over six decades leaves a legacy of hard work, kindness and devotion that will be cherished for generations to come.

 From an early age, Ervin developed a deep connection to farming, learning the ropes from his father of a profession that would become his life's work. He graduated from the West Central School of Agriculture in 1955. Leaving the farm for a brief stint, he worked in the taconite mines in Silver Bay, MN, then basic training at Ft Leonardwood, MO. In 1956 he rented land and began his farming career. He met and married the love of his life, Camilla Klinnert, in 1959. 

 In 1960, he purchased his first piece of ground. That year, the rains didn't come and though he had planted, there would be no crop to harvest. Taking it in stride, he believed the soil held more than just crops-it held the roots of his family's history and it's future. Through the years, Ervin transformed the farm into a thriving operation, embracing both traditional methods and modern techniques. His knowledge of the land and dedication to his craft earned him respect among his peers as evidenced by being selected as the West Otter Tail Farmer of the year in 2006. He loved the smell of freshly baled hay, a newly plowed field and the air after a welcomed summer rain. He took quiet pride in a newborn calf or piglet and did what he could to give them a great start at life. Ervin would celebrate the end of a planting season or harvest with a "bump" and chicken dinner at a local restaurant. 

Family was at the core of Ervin's life. With Camilla, they raised 3 children-Deb, Scott, and Tammy instilling in them the same values of hard work, honesty, and love that Ervin lived by every day. As a grandfather and great grandfather, he found great joy in teaching them about the farm and showing them the beauty of a life connected to the earth. His greatest pride was seeing his family grow and thrive, knowing that they carried forward values he held dear. 

 Ervin was not only a dedicated farmer and family man but also a pillar of the local community. He shared his knowledge of the agriculture industry on various boards and committees including the Underwood Co-op Creamery board, Sverdrup Mutual Insurance Company, the Fergus Falls Farmers Elevator Board and the FSA County Committee. He served on the Maine Township Board as Clerk and Supervisor and was a Trustee for the St. James Catholic Church. His quiet leadership in those organizations was appreciated by those who served with him. 

He is proceeded in death by Camilla, his wife of 61 years; parents Henry and Irene Rocholl; sisters,Marlene Wahlgren, Susan Neuleib, and other treasured family members. 

He is survived by his children, Debra (Larry) Stoa of Hawley, Scott (Leah) of Underwood, and Tamara (Jon) Holland of West Fargo; bonus son, Dennis (Jenny) Schmidt; grandchildren, Chelsey, Amy, and Logan Stoa, Hannah (Kevin) Reedstrom, Noah (Morgan) Rocholl, Katelyn (Jordan) Nelson, and Ben (Isabel) Holland; greatgrandchildren, Eli, Brooks, and Brynn Nelson, and Harper Reedstrom and numerous other family and friends. 

 Though Ervin is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the fields he tilled, the family he loved, and the community he served. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of family, and the enduring bond between people and the land. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation: 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at St. James Catholic Church, rural Underwood, with Parish Prayers starting at 5:00 p.m. and sharing starting at 6:30 p.m.; visitation will resume one-hour prior to the Mass at the church.

 Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at St. James Catholic Church, rural Underwood, MN.

 Clergy: Father George Michael

 Interment: St. James Catholic Cemetery, rural Underwood, Minnesota

 Arrangements are provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls. 

Online condolences may be sent www.olsonfuneralhome.com