On Monday, April 17, 2023, Earle Cameron Runquist, aged 79, passed away at his home in Grapeland, TX Earle was born on November 8, 1943 in Starbuck, MN to Freddie and Doris (Everson) Runquist. Earle went to technical college in Alexandria, MN where he received his Associate’s degree in engine repair and maintenance.
He was a United States Army veteran, having served at Fort Wainwright, Alaska as an engineer in the 71st Infantry Brigade. After the Army, Earle moved to Drayton, ND where he worked for a John Deere dealership as a tractor and combine mechanic. After Drayton, Earle moved back to his birthplace in Starbuck, MN and took over a neighbor’s farm. He farmed this land until his retirement in 2008, having gradually transitioned to logging and saw-milling, along with doing seasonal work for the Pope County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Earle had a passion for steam engines. For many years he owned a 1917 Minneapolis steam tractor, showing this engine at steam threshing shows throughout the area. He also loved motorcycles, owning a Harley-Davidson and two BMW motorcycles. Often times he would reminisce about his times on the road. Earle was known for his strong work ethic, his love of country music and woodworking, and a keen understanding of all things mechanical. He rebuilt and engineered systems whenever he had need.
On July 12, 1980 he married Riet (Maria) Unke. They had three children, Niels Unke, Hayley Unke-Moore (Tomas Moore), and Erik Runquist (Brenna Runquist). He was preceded in death by his parents and other aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife, their children and spouses, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, brother Donald Runquist, and nephew Steven Runquist.
A memorial service will be held at Walker and Walker Funeral Home in Grapeland, TX on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm.
A memorial service will be held at Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood, MN on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 2:00pm.
Memorial Service
Saturday, April 23, 2023
3:00 PM
Walker & Walker
Memorial Service
Saturday, April 29, 2023
2:00 PM
Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home
Glenwood, MN
Comments