Alvin Dietz, age 91, of New Prague, died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, October 26, 2017, at The Lutheran Home in Belle Plaine. Alvin was born on July 8, 1926, in Lanesburgh Township, Le Sueur County to Frank J. and Rose (Panek) Dietz. Alvin graduated from New Prague High School and enlisted in the US Navy following graduation, where he served in World War II. After completion of his service, he entered the University of Minnesota and completed his Bachelors Degree. He was a “Jack-of-all-trades”, holding many jobs but most importantly teaching agricultural school in Luverne, MN. He returned to the New Prague area to begin his passion for farming, a career he had until retirement. He married Ruth M. DeLisle in Minneapolis on May 14, 1960.
Alvin was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, the VFW, and New Prague Rotary. He was passionate about his service as a board member on the Le Sueur County Soil and Water Conservation Board, serving over 50 years. He also served on the Region 9 Board. In his leisure time, Alvin enjoyed woodworking and carpentry, a skill he learned in the Navy. He and Ruth enjoyed dancing in their earlier years and more recently, Alvin could be found playing cards and making wine. He was out-going and had friends wherever he went; he served as an inspiration and was well-known and loved at Snap Fitness and the library.
Alvin is survived by his wife, Ruth, of New Prague; son, Peter (Carol) Dietz of New Prague; daughter, Theresa McDaniel (Bruce Peltonen) of Belle Plaine; brother, Harry Dietz of New Prague; sister, Ella Jahn of New Prague; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Frank, Emil, & Edward Dietz; sister, Adeline Jahn.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, October 29, 2017, at 4:00 PM with Deacon Bob Wagner officiating at Bruzek Funeral Home. Visitation will take place from 2 – 4 PM. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery where military honors will be conducted, followed by lunch at the KC Hall.
