Robert Hietala

Robert Hietala, 71, of Wadena, MN died Wednesday, November 18, 2015 at Lakewood Health System Hospital in Staples, MN. A Memorial Service for Robert will be held at 2:00PM, Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at Staples United Methodist Church in Staples, with Pastor Greg Ciesluk officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation one hour prior to services at the church.

Robert was born February 21, 1944 in Wadena, MN to Sylvester and Evelyn (Tolppi) Hietala. He graduated from Sebeka High School and then went on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the U of M. Robert married Phyllis Wittmayer in Bertha, MN in the mid 1960's, and they lived in the Chanhassen and Chaska area. He moved back to Sebeka after his father's death to take over the farm in the early 1970's. He farmed for 15 years, and then went back into Civil Engineering in the late 1980's, working in Park Rapids. Robert was united in marriage to Judith Schreiner in Wadena in the late 1990's. He retired at age 62. Robert enjoyed deer hunting, reading, and watching his grandkids playing in their sporting events at school.

Robert is survived by his wife, Judy of Wadena, MN; children, Sonja (Tony) Blinkhorn of Stillwater, MN, Dean (Marla) Hietala of Becker, MN; brother, John; sister, Geneva (Bob) Uttermark; grandchildren, Sierra, Sawyer, Carter and Wyatt. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Evelyn; sister in law, Pauline; and grandson, Noah. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.