Stanley "Junior" Panek

Stanley Panek Jr., a dedicated father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on February 16, 2026, at his home where he lived for 85 years, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 28, 1939, in Thief River Falls, MN, Stanley lived a life marked by hard work and deep familial bonds.

Stanley spent his career farming alongside his brothers, Walter and Henry, where they raised livestock and grains together until his retirement in 2002. Even after retirement, Stanley remained devoted to the family farm, continuing to lend a hand and maintain the legacy of their agricultural endeavors. He and his wife, Arlene Siebert, who he married on July 1, 1961, in Grygla, MN, received the Farm Beautification Award in 2011 for their incredible dedication to maintaining the beauty and integrity of their land.

Beyond farming, Stanley was known for his quiet, soft-spoken nature and his willingness to lend a helping hand to all of his neighbors. He touched the lives of many, not only through his community involvement but through his personal interests as well. Stanley enjoyed crosswords, game shows, and particularly had a fondness for Wheel of Fortune. His love for gardening was evident as he continued to plant beautiful flowers and feed the birds, an activity he cherished until the fall of the previous year.

The couple's celebration of Christmas became a beloved yearly project, during which Arlene and Stanley transformed their property into a vast holiday attraction, delighting their family and area residents for many years.

Stanley is survived by his children: Jeff (Belinda) of Tea, SD, Jimmy of West Fargo, ND, Kathy (Kirby) Hamre of Reiles Acres, ND, and Scott (Trisha) of Oklee, MN. He will also be missed by his eleven grandchildren: Jason (Sara) Panek, Tyler (Audra) Panek, Kassie Lindemoen, Kyle Panek, Zach Panek, Jacob Panek, Katie Panek, Samantha (Jeff) Westberg, Duncan Kippen, Kristopher Kvick, and Alex Hamre; along with twelve great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his brother, Robert of Apache Junction, AZ, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his dear wife, Arlene; his parents, Stanley and Frances (Kolski) Panek; daughter-in-law, Tanya Kippen; and siblings: George (Pat) Panek, Walter (Sharon) Panek, Deloris (Henry) Bendickson, Norman (Evelyn) Panek, and Henry (Marge) Panek; as well as sister-in-law, Doris Panek.

Stanley's legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew him, cherished as a gentle soul who found joy in nurturing both his garden and his family.

A funeral service for Stanley will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with Rev. Kristin Ostercamp officiating. Burial will be held at Silverton Lutheran Cemetery, rural Thief River Falls, MN.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM with a 5:00 PM prayer service at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the funeral on Monday.

Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com