Leonard "Lenny" Twete

Leonard Roy Twete, age 69, of Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

Leonard was born in 1956 to Louis and Frieda (Vatthauer) Twete. He spent his early childhood in Red Lake Falls, attending school there through the 5th grade before the family relocated to Glencoe, Minnesota. He graduated from Glencoe High School with the Class of 1975 and went on to attend Mankato State College, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Park and Recreation.

Following college, Leonard-known affectionately as Lenny-returned to Red Lake Falls, where he farmed alongside his uncles and cousins at Vatthauer Farms. He dedicated 47 years to the farm, working with pride, perseverance, and a deep respect for the land and his family's agricultural heritage.

Lenny was a passionate collector of Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings memorabilia, and he took great joy in attending the flea market in Detroit Lakes every Sunday. He also loved following professional sports and was an enthusiastic supporter of Minnesota teams. In addition, Lenny was a devoted fan of Red Lake Falls school athletics, especially basketball, football, and volleyball. His pride in local and state sports was a defining part of his life.

On July 9, 2005, Lenny met the love of his life, Laurie Stigen, through Laurie's daughter Emilie. Just over a year later, on July 14, 2006, they were married at the Pioneer Village Church in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Their union was filled with love, laughter, and shared passions that enriched both of their lives.

Lenny was a very hardworking man-dedicated, reliable, and never one to shy away from a challenge. He was caring and people-oriented, with a natural ability to strike up a conversation with anyone. His generosity touched many lives, and his meticulous nature showed in everything he did. And while he could be stubborn at times, it was always rooted in conviction and love.

Known for his warmth, strength, and unwavering spirit, Leonard was a beloved member of every community he was part of. His life was marked by kindness, hard work, and a deep love for family and friends. He touched many lives and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie of Red Lake Falls; sister, Ruth Twete of Minneapolis, MN; step-daughter, Emilie Fayette; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kathy Chapin of Grand Forks, ND, Jeff (LaVon) Lannoye of Thief River Falls; Cherie (Kurt) Leader of Holcomb, KS, Gwen Stigen of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Chloe (Kenny) Fayette & Skylar Abrahamsen; great-grandchildren, Connor, Jameson & Waylon; all of the Vatthauer Family; and many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; father & mother-in-law, Ernest and Cora Stigen; brothers & sisters-in-law, Nick Lannoye, Loren Stigen, Cliff Stigen, Greg Stigen, & Susan Stigen Axtel; step-daughter, Melonie Fayette.

A funeral service to honor Leonard's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 29, 2025 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Red Lake Falls, MN with Rev. Jonathan Dodson officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Leonard's memory. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.

Leonard will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, kindness, and hard work will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.