Winston B. Evenson

Winston Burnett Evenson, a loving father, grandfather, and proud member of his community, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving daughters, on December 22, 2023, at the New Richland Care Center. Born on June 28, 1927, in New Richland, Winston was the son of Arthur and Alice (Sunde) Evenson.

After graduating from New Richland High School in 1945, Winston answered the call of duty and joined the United States Army on September 5, 1946. Serving his country with honor and dedication, he was honorably discharged on January 22, 1948.

In June of 1951, Winston married the love of his life, Lorraine Wenzel, and together they built a beautiful life in New Richland. They were blessed with two daughters, Mary and LeAnn, who brought them immense joy and pride.   He and Lorraine enjoyed their time together and with friends, spending time dancing at many different venues in the area.

Throughout his life, Winston worked as a dedicated truck driver for Shurson Trucking and also assisted in digging basements in the area.  He later enjoyed working at WFS with area farmers.  Winston's commitment to serving others extended beyond his work, as he devoted his time to the New Richland Fire Department and proudly served as chaplain for the American Legion Post 75.  In 2010 he had the honor of joining local veterans on an honor flight to Washington DC; the first and only flight Winston took in his lifetime. Winston's sense of duty and love for his country were evident in his service, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the values he held dear.  An active member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, Winston served as Sunday School superintendent, council member, and usher, embodying his strong Christian faith.

Known for his warm and friendly demeanor, Winston was cherished by all who knew him. He had a genuine passion for his country, frequently expressing his belief that it was the best place to live. A lover of sports, he enjoyed watching games and supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their various activities. Winston had an incredible memory and held a wealth of knowledge, earning him the reputation of being a great historian within the community and his family.

In his leisure time, Winston could often be found cruising around town in his golf cart, taking the opportunity to visit friends and have a friendly chat. His presence at the local elevator, sipping coffee with his companions, will be dearly missed. Winston had an unwavering love for his family, finding great joy in spending time with them or hearing their voices over the phone.

As we bid farewell to Winston, we remember his compassionate spirit, his dedication to his community, and his profound love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and genuine friendship that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Winston will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Mary Routh and LeAnn (Curt) Fuchs; grandchildren, Alison (Jesse) Nelson, Rusty (Kalisha Atkins) Routh, Adam (Missy) Routh, Barry (Emily) Fuchs, Ross (Megan) Fuchs, and Cole Fuchs; great-grandchildren, Axel, Rex, Magnus, Eero, Lila, Lucy, Leni, Leia, Elle, Jude, Ava, Eli, Rhett, Esme, Emma, Vivian, Owen, and Lila; siblings, Joanne (Roger) Cherrington, Kathryn Parriott, and Charles (Karee) Evenson, sisters-in-law, Ann Wenzel, Arlene (Rod) Johnson, and Karen Evenson; along with many nieces and nephews. 

Winston was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lorraine in 2019; son-in-law, Dean Routh; siblings, Roger (Yvonne) Evenson, Eilene (Maynard) Johnson, and Ellsworth Evenson; brothers-in-law, Earl Parriott, Lester (Marian) Wenzel, and Billy Wenzel; and niece, Ruth Ann Hager.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Peter Lutheran Church, New Richland, MN; Pastor Scott Williams will officiate.  Winston’s family will greet guests at a visitation two hours prior to the service at the church.  Interment will be at St Peter Cemetery in New Richland, MN. 

Winston will be forever remembered in our hearts as someone who loved his life, had pride in his country and community, and truly enjoyed being in the company of friends and family.  May his legacy serve as a reminder to live each day to the fullest, to cherish our loved ones, and to approach life's challenges with the same steadfast determination that defined Winston's remarkable journey.