Bruce Donald McKinnon

1949 - 2025

Northfield - Bruce Donald McKinnon, age 76 of Northfield, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025 at the Northfield Retirement Community as a result of his battle with a rare, neurological disease. Bruce was born on February 10, 1949 in Saint Cloud, MN, the son of Royce and Betty (Willard) McKinnon. He attended school in the Burnsville and Shakopee area before eventually graduating from Northfield High School. Bruce was drafted into the United States Army in 1969; his distinct and dedicated service to his country in the Vietnam War resulted in an Honorable Discharge in 1971 and the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal for his meritorious service in combat. Bruce was united in marriage to Linda Bestul on September 19, 1970 and the couple lived in the Northfield area where Bruce held a few jobs before working at Malt-o-Meal for 20 years leading to his retirement. Bruce was content with the simple things in life; he and Linda enjoyed their slice of heaven in the country together for many years. He was a very traditional Minnesota sports fan when he loved to watch (and complain about) the Vikings and Twins. Bruce is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Linda; sisters-in-law, Karen Nord, Victoria (Stephen) Gergen, Kimberly (Scott Mortensen) Sydnes; brothers-in-law, Terry (Jenny) Bestul, Todd (Lisa) Bestul; children of his sister, Gayle, including his niece, Kristin Bjorkley; nephew, Michael (Christina) Bjorkley; as well as his other nieces, nephews, other extended family and many friends including his brothers in arms. He is preceded in death by his parents, Royce and Betty; sister, Gayle; his parents in-law, Carroll and Phyllis Bestul; niece, Thea Bestul; and sister-in-law, Lana Good and husband Dr. Roy Good. Bruce will be laid to rest with military honors at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 19th at Prairie Creek Cemetery of Northfield with a reception for family and friends to follow. Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield. www.northfieldfuneral.com