Orval Merlin Underdahl

Please click this link to view the live stream of his service: https://vimeo.com/event/5755156/4ec0cf2797

Orval M. Underdahl Age 94, of New Hope MN passed away peacefully on Saturday February 21, 2026 at Boden Senior Living. Orval was born June 27, 1931 to Orlin and Mae Underdahl in Minneapolis Minnesota. He grew up on a farm in Maple Plain along with his 3 sisters and 2 brothers. He attended school through 8th grade, when he quit to go to work. He met Violet Erickson after moving to Minneapolis and they were married November 10, 1950. A son Randy Lee was born in 1951, but sadly he became extremely ill when he was 5 months old and went to heaven shortly after.

Orval was drafted into the Army in 1952 and was sent to fight in the Korean War until returning home in September of 1954. Once home, 3 sons were born in succession Steve (1955), Rick (1956), and Jim (1958). Their only daughter Lori followed in 1961 completing the family. The family resided in Minneapolis, then Crystal, settling in New Hope where Orval remained until recently. The family faithfully attended Crystal Evangelical Free Church which became New Hope Church, where many lifelong friendships were formed.

Orval worked for Columbus Manufacturing as a welder, then becoming a mechanic at MTC until his retirement in 1996. Sadly on March 26, 2007 Orval lost the love of his life Violet. As devastating as this was, his love of classic country music eventually led to a passion for singing Karaoke (sometimes as many as 3 times a week). Orval became a regular Karaoke participant at the Brooklyn Park Legion where he was known for his favorite drink "Coke on the rocks". His genuine smile, his wonderful personality and kindness were shared with everyone he met.

Orval is survived by his sons Steven (Beverly), Richard (Toni), James (Barbara), daughter Lori, sisters Hazel Enga and Carol Baack, 7 grand children, 6 great grand children, and 1 great great grand child. He was preceded in death by son Randy, wife Violet, sister Ellen, brothers Arnold and Robert. Review will be held Sunday March 1 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Washburn- McReavy Glen Haven Funeral Chapel, 5125 W Broadway, Crystal. A celebration of life is planned for Monday March 2 at 11:00am at New Hope Church, 4225 Gettysburg Ave N, New Hope. Visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Luncheon to follow service. Burial at Fort Snelling. Memorials to New Hope Church.

Please click this link to view the live stream of his service: https://vimeo.com/event/5755156/4ec0cf2797