Ronald Fay "Ron" Behrends

In Loving Memory of

Ronald "Ron" Fay Behrends

Ronald "Ron" Fay Behrends (1947 - 2025) passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, surrounded by his family in Slayton, MN. He was born on August 9, 1947, in Slayton, Minnesota to John and Evelyn Nord Behrends. Ron grew up on the family farm in Fenton Township and graduated from Chandler High School in 1965. Following graduation, Ron continued his education at Jackson Vo-Tech where he graduated from the Automotive Specialists Program in 1967. After college he went to work in Truman, MN for Truman Equipment. It was in Truman that Ron met and married Sandy Delk. They had one daughter, Kim Nelson. In 1974, Ron moved to Slayton, MN and began working for Slayton International in the parts department. He eventually took the opportunity to purchase the business in 1985 from Roger Jensen and Eddie Kreig, alongside partners Dave Meinerts and Earl Arfsten. Ron became sole proprietor of the business in 2001 and continued to own and operate the business until 2012, when he sold the business to Miller Sellner. Ron was an exceptional parts specialist. When it came to identifying, finding, and knowing part numbers, he was the best at what he did. His knowledge, alongside of a photographic memory for part numbers, was greatly admired and appreciated by many farmers throughout the area. He loved his work, and even more he loved his employees and gave them the credit for the success of Slayton International. Ron married Kathleen Nepp on October 4, 1980, at the Iona Presbyterian Church in Iona, MN. Together they raised two sons, Ross, and Brett Behrends. Ron was a loving father and grandpa to his family. His incredible faith and courage were admired and appreciated. He lived a simple life, full of joy and understanding. He was his grandkids biggest fan and could always be found in the stands cheering them on. Ron spent his retirement on his hunting property with his beloved dog "Prairie," spending his time gardening, morning walks, enjoying nature, and celebrating life with his family and friends. Ron was an active and dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church of Slayton, where he devoted his time as Elder, Trustee, and Sunday School Teacher. He loved the Lord above all.

Ron's survivors include his three children, Ross (Melanie) Behrends of Slayton MN, Brett Behrends of Brookings, SD, Kim Nelson of Robbinsdale, MN, one brother, Rodney (Eunice) Behrends of Worthington, MN, and three grandchildren, Tristan and Caden Behrends, and Max Nemesi, and Special Friend, Kathy Behrends. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Behrends, two sisters, Gloria (John) Pelligrino, and Linda (Kevin) Beers.

Funeral Services

Christ Lutheran Church in Slayton, MN on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Aaron Punt officiating. The organist is Sherri Isder with special music by Tony Moger. The pallbearers are Russ Winter, Troy Winter, Jim Voges, Clayton Gehl, Bill Baune, and Leon Kruse. Honorary pallbearers are Curt Behrends, Jim Hoekman, Denny Beers, Randy Beers, and Keith Doeden. Interment is at Slayton Memorial Gardens in Slayton, MN.

Visitation will be on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Christ Lutheran Church in Slayton from 3-6 p.m. and one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday. Memorials may be directed to Murray County Hospice. Totzke Funeral Home of Slayton is entrusted with arrangement. To view online obituary and send condolences visit totzkefuneralhome.com