Kelly Etzler
Kelly Dean Etzler, “Tater,” 58, of Menahga, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack February 24, 2026.
A service and celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Kelly was born March 6, 1967 to Adolph (Bud) and June (Stroman) Etzler in Little Falls. He grew up on the family farm in Lincoln. Alongside his dad and 11 siblings, Kelly helped run the family sawmill and planer. He developed skills in welding, mechanic work and excavating. Kelly’s spare time was spent building and racing demolition derby cars.
Kelly married Jamie Delores Haataja Juntti on September 20, 2003. Together, they made their home in Menahga where they were blessed with six children and started their own family farm.
Kelly enjoyed spending time hunting and teaching his children the skill and traditions. He was a talented craftsman who enjoyed blacksmith, crafting knives, woodworking and tending bees. He cherished being surrounded by those he loved.
He worked for several years at Renneberg Hardwoods, at Arvig and recently began his own excavating business, Northland Clearing. He served on the Runeberg Township, Park Rapids Fair and the Relayt Church boards.
Kelly is survived by his wife of 22 years, Jamie; six children, Ava, Malina, William, Ana, Charlie and Alise; nine siblings, Donald Etzler, Roger (Teresa) Etzler, Mike Etzler, Phyllis Plattner, Lois (Dwayne) Walters, Mark (Sheila) Etzler, Tom (Jeanine Johnson) Etzler, Nancy (Scott) Purington and Tony (Niki Carlson) Etzler and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Paul Etzler; one brother-in-law, Thomas Carlson; grandparents and several aunts and uncles.
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