Kenneth Andrew Branstad, 90, died March 27, 2011, in his home in Hayfield.

He was born Dec.14, 1920, in Clam Falls, Wis., to Gustav and Emma (Ingebretson) Branstad. He was baptized April 3, 1921, in Clam Falls Lutheran Church and was confirmed in Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield, June 1935. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army. He married Vernita (Patzer) Branstad April 17, 1948, at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin. They had five sons. He retired from Hormel Foods in Austin after 36 years of employment. Ken and Vernita were married almost 63 years.

Kenny was a pitcher in men’s fast pitch softball in his early years and he loved all sports. He was a lifetime fisherman, enjoyed playing cards and bowling, as well as an avid coin collector. He was a drummer in the Jamboree Band and enjoyed playing in area nursing homes.

He spent his retirement summers camping at Grave’s Lake Resort and Campground, Remer, Minn. Kenny was known as a jokester and always had a smile and laugh for everyone he encountered.

He was always involved in church, teaching Sunday school, church council and was president of the congregation at one point, and enjoyed Bible studies.

Kenny loved his church, family and friends dearly.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Vernita of Hayfield; sons, Robert of Hayfield, Marvin of Blaine; Ronald of Osage, Dennis (Cynthia) of Owatonna and Arlin of Rochester. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; his brother George (Veleria), Remer as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Alice Holton, Carmen Holton and brother Carl Branstad.

Visitation will be held at the Czaplewski Funeral Home, 501 2nd Street NW, Hayfield on Wednesday, March 30 from 4 to 7 p.m. The Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, March 31 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 104 1st Street SE, Hayfield, MN with Reverend Paul Hauschild officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery, Austin. Blessed be his memory. www.czaplewskifuneralhomes..com.