Earl J. “Bud” Stukel
OWATONNA, Minn. —Earl J. “Bud” Stukel passed away May 8, 2008. He was born April 29, 1932.
Bud would tell you he did not lose a hard-fought battle with his disease. He saw it as a challenge and a valuable part of his life. He would say he fought many tougher battles in his 76 years.
As a boy growing up during the Depression years, his love for the outdoors was established and grew deeper into his adult years.
He was known as “Joe” Stukel to most of his Calumet High School classmates.
Bud would say his high school years were very rich, rich in memories but especially rich in long lasting relationships with that core of individuals that grew up together and continued their closeness throughout their lives. Under the senior picture of “Joseph E. Stukel” reads: Academic, Booster Club, Tennis Club, R.O.T.C., R.O.T.C. Rifle Team and Football.
Following high school, Bud joined the Air Force in the winter of 1952. With the Korean Conflict still a factor, he found himself atop a mountain in Korea with ground-radio communication duties. This field of duty ultimately led to his career in electrical engineering.
In September 1956, Bud enrolled at Michigan Technological University and began a journey that led to his ubiquitous career as an electrical engineer. That career began with the White Pine Copper Company in 1960.
It was while working at White Pine that he met and married Patricia Louise Peters. They were married on December 12, 1964 in White Pine. During the 14 years of Bud’s career with White Pine, he and Pat were blessed with five wonderful children. He will be forever honored by James R. (Carol) Stukel, Valerie A. (Kristopher) King, Christina L. (Michael) Sheppard, Patricia (Tosha) A. (Shawn) McMahon, and Katherine R. Stukel.
In the summer of 1978, the family moved to Forest Lake, Minn. and Bud’s career went from copper mining to paper production at Hoerner Waldorf Corp. in St. Paul, Minn. He had no regrets in his career choice and he dedicated his time and knowledge to that end.
When he retired from his career in the spring of 1996, he packed up those 18 years of challenges, rewards, trips to Europe and travels to states and cities around the country.
From his love for the outdoors sprang new hobbies and interests, such as photography and traveling around the country. His love of family, both past and present, was utmost in his heart and mind.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Anna L. Kochevar and father, John J. Stukel; and his only brother, Francis J. Stukel.
He leaves behind his adored wife, Patricia; five children; and six grandchildren. Alex, Brody, Sophie, Olivia, Teagan and Gaven will remember Grandpa with hearts full of love. One sister, Betty, in Ohio; and many nieces and nephews will celebrate his life.
Visitation will be held on May 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home, 1930 Austin Rd. in Owatonna, Minn.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna on May 13 at 11 a.m., preceded by a one hour visitation. He will return to his beloved Calumet where his remains will be interred in the family lot at Lake View Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to The Salvation Army or donor’s choice.
