Curtis James Kalpin

Curtis James Kalpin, age 83, of Osakis, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with colon cancer, surrounded by the family he so deeply cherished. Diagnosed in December 2024, Curt faced his illness with remarkable strength and grace, even keeping up his sense of humor—reminding everyone to get your colonoscopies, people!

Curt was born on December 2, 1941, in Parkers Prairie, MN, to Henrick Frederick Gustav Kalpin and Marie Dorothy (Hink) Kalpin. The youngest of five—surrounded by four adoring older sisters who affectionately called him “Curtie”—his early life was shaped by hardship. He lost both parents by the time he was 17, and for a time, lived in his car. But Curt's grit, and the kindness of others, especially a custodian at Parkers Prairie High School who took him in, helped him finish school and graduate in 1960. After graduation his goal was to join the Army and be part of the Military Police but did not pass his physical due to a bad ankle. He was so disappointed that on the same day as this “rejection” from the Army, he walked home from Wadena to Parkers Prairie (26 miles) just to prove his ankle was fine.

He moved to Minneapolis shortly after and worked at an apron factory before beginning a long and varied career that reflected his strong work ethic and adaptability. From Honeywell to Bellanca to 3M to H. Boyd Nelson to Alex Beverage to Lindrite—culminating in his proud involvement with O-Town Tavern, which he cleaned every morning for almost 12 years. He was thrilled when his sons opened it in 2013, heartbroken when it was sold in 2019, and elated when his daughter reclaimed it with his full encouragement and support. But let’s be honest, Curt mostly loved to go to O-Town to socialize. Curt didn't just love his work—he loved helping people, whether that meant cleaning beer lines, bartending in a pinch, or washing dishes. He also volunteered to deliver Meals on Wheels for years, giving as much to the community as it gave to him. Curt was also a very active member in Ducks Unlimited for several years.

Curt married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Linda Lee Larson, on October 6, 1962. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, devotion, and three children, Laurie, Jeffrey and Patrick. Curt and Linda made the life-changing decision to move back to their roots and buy Mick’s Resort on Lake Osakis in 1972. For five years, they built community and memories on the lake.

In 2009, Curt was honored as one of the Honorary Captains for Parkers Prairie football, where he once played wide receiver, tight end, nose guard, and defensive end. In high school, he also played basketball and wrestled. In his early adult life, Curt enjoyed being on several broomball and softball teams.

Curt was a hardcore family man and home body. He would do anything for his family and loved to stay at home in Osakis. We tried a few family vacations, but he was ready to come home after 1-2 days. Curt never missed a sporting event for his children or grandchildren—until illness made it impossible. He was their loudest cheerleader, offering advice not only to them but often to the coaches, officials, and referees too. A natural storyteller with a vivid memory, Curt could captivate a room. Most of his favorite stories were centered around hunting and family. Many of his stories, he told many times—each with a little more flair.

Curt was a man of many hobbies—fishing, hunting (especially at “The Boar’s Nest”), golfing (until his family started beating him), and “making his rounds” in town, chatting up with just about everyone he encountered. He loved to dance, even winning a dance contest with his wife Linda “back in the day,” and his absence was deeply felt around Osakis when his daily social loops came to a halt because of his illness.

He was a faithful fan of the Minnesota Twins, the (sigh) Vikings, golf, and just about any basketball game. He may have seemed gruff at times but inside was a tender heart that beat strongest for his family. Curt would drop anything to help them, never hesitating to show up, fix something (even if he couldn’t fix it), lend advice, or simply listen.

Curt is survived by his beloved wife of 62½ years, Linda; his children Laurie (Tony) Garcia, Jeff (Merry) Kalpin, and Patrick (Erin) Kalpin, all of Osakis; 7 grandchildren: Raquel (Ryan) Jahnke of Willmar, Savannah (Jamie) McCann of Paynesville, Peyton Garcia (Alicia Way) of St. Paul, Joey Garcia of Elbow Lake, Laney, Henry, and Quinn Kalpin; 3 great-grandchildren: Jonah and Caleb Jahnke and Mylah McCann; in-laws Bob Simonson who was also like a brother and best buddy to Curt, Pauline Larson, and Patricia Larson; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, infant brother Mervin Kalpin, sisters Doris Ann Hauger, Iona Wunderlich, Verdeen (Engstrand) Huwe, LaVonne Cassell, and granddaughter Riley Elizabeth Garcia.

To know Curt was to know a man of resilience, humor, and deep, unwavering love. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, stories, and community spirit. His presence will be missed—but his stories, laughter, and lessons will live on in all who loved him.