Albin "Cougar" Chaplinski

Our darling "Cougar", Albin Chaplinski, 83, of Middle River, MN passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at Sanford Medical Center in Thief River Falls, MN surrounded by his loving family.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a 6:30 PM Prayer Service on Thursday, January 19, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Middle River.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM on Friday, January 20, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Middle River, MN with Father George Noel presiding. The visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Military honors will be provided by Middle River American Legion Post 444 and Minnesota Army National Guard Honor Guard. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery following the service.
Albin Julius Chaplinski was born May 26, 1939 in Thief River Falls, MN the son of Albin and Julia (Stanina) Chaplinski. Growing up on the farm he knew exactly what his life's calling would be. Although he was pulled away for a period of time to serve in the United States Army and National Guard.
Albin was united in marriage to Mary Eggert in 1965 which produced five children, Janie, John, Jodi, Joe and Jason. His life was filled with the love of farming and family. Always available to give advice of his hits and misses if asked for. Always said "it always looks better from the road."
In 1994 he married his "City Girl" and turned her into a farmer. Albin and Johnnie enjoyed some wonderful trips together and with neighbors. Goose hunting was his favorite fall activity other than harvest. He was always willing to share his passion with others.
Albin was a long-term member of Whiteford Township Board and American Legion Post 444 in Middle River.
Albin is survived and will be forever missed by his adoring wife Johnnie; children, Janie (Brian Bolduc) Chaplinski Brandon, Middle River, John (Michelle) Chaplinski, Middle River, Joe (Brenda) Chaplinski, Middle River, Jodi (Chris) Beeson, Scottsdale, AZ, Jason Chaplinski, Gilbert, AZ, and step-daughter, Thene (George) Martin Mernick, Sandy Spring, MD; brother, Chuck (LuAnn) Chaplinski, Middle River; sister-in-law, Glenda Chaplinski, Middle River; grandchildren, Kelsey, Jordan, Payton, Annabelle, Michael; step-grandson, Michael; nieces, Katie (Jeremy) Jensen & Stacie (Aaron) Nelson; grandniece, Gracie Nelson & grandnephew Eli Nelson; sister in law and brother in law, Mary and Mike Sloper, Alexandria VA; and many wonderful friends and neighbors.
He is preceded in death by father, Albin; mother, Julia; step-father, Swede Johnson; and brothers, Michael and Wally Chaplinski.