Edward "Ed" Redalen

We joyfully remember and celebrate the life of Edward Redalen-a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, colleague, and friend. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness touched countless lives, and the stories he shared-always rich with warmth and wit-will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ed grew up in Lanesboro, Minnesota, one of six siblings-and perhaps the mischief-maker-in-chief. He loved to recount tales of childhood antics, pulling pranks on unsuspecting townsfolk and getting into just enough trouble. Those stories, told with a twinkle in his eye and wry little grin, were never just about the mischief-they were about the deep bonds he shared with his beloved siblings, the sweetness of growing up in a small town, and the lifelong love he carried for his family.

He served proudly in the United States Marine Corps, wearing that uniform and legacy with great pride. A graduate of Winona State University, Ed went on to earn a Master's degree in School Counseling from the University of Toledo. His career as a lifelong educator was marked by dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to the well-being of his students and colleagues.

Ed shared 49 years of marriage with his cherished wife Joan-a life filled with laughter, deep love, and treasured relationships with close friends and family that brought such meaning and happiness to their lives.

He is survived by four children: Krisha Clopton (John), Todd Redalen (Alice), Jennifer Lundberg (Tim), and Kirsten Schmit (Joe)-each of whom brought him deep joy and pride. He loved to share stories about his children, bragging on accomplishments both big and small, but most of all, the content of their character.

He delighted in his large family, beaming with pride over each grandchild and great-grandchild. Whether it was a new photo, a funny story, or a milestone moment, he soaked it all in-celebrating their adventures, accomplishments, and personalities with genuine joy. His grandchildren Andrew (Lauren), Alex (Rhiannon), Seth, Sam (Carmen), Ben (Jessica), Luke, Allie, Colin, Ryan, Maddy, Gwen, Nolan, and Morgan brought him endless pride, laughter, and love. His great-grandchildren Grace, William, Nicholas, Freya, Reese, Clara, Ruby, and Lily added such sparkle to his life and even more stories and photos to share.

He is also survived by his sister Diane Geha (Alex) and brother Richard Redalen (Sandy), along with many special nieces and nephews whom he cherished and who were touched by his warmth and steady presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Sr. and Christine; his sisters Jackie Friese (Donnie), Elaine Olson (Steve), and Beverly Hamblin (Jim); and his nephews Stuart Friese, Bryce Olson, and Mark Olson. We are filled with peace knowing he has been reunited with them and with the Lord in heaven, whom he humbly cherished.

Ed loved to see and share pictures of his family, and he lit up when hearing about their latest adventures. His foundation of faith and his love for God were the core of his character. He had a zest for life and a playful streak that stayed with him up through his very last days. He was spirited, warm-hearted, and delightfully silly, bringing laughter wherever he went. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to call him family, friend, mentor, or colleague.

A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Thursday, November 6th at 10:30 a.m. at Grandview Lutheran Church in Des Moines, Iowa, with interment to follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at the Kavanagh House for their gentle, compassionate care during Ed's final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Marshalltown YMCA in Marshalltown, Iowa, or to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lanesboro, Minnesota.