Obituary of Russell Robert Vogt

Russell (Russ) Robert Vogt passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at the age of 79.

Russ was born on October 27, 1944, in Albert Lea, MN to Carl and Geneva (Klatt) Vogt. He was the fifth of seven children. He graduated from Owatonna High School in 1963. After High School, he voluntarily enlisted into the US Army and started his service on September 6, 1963. Russ was stationed at Birkenfeld Air Base in Germany as a Colonel driver and courier. He was Honorably discharged on September 1, 1965.

Russell’s occupation was building/construction. When asked what he did, Russ would reply ‘I’m a Wood Butcher.’ He began his career working on home remodels and new building construction, but later settled into making cabinets and finish carpentry because Russ said, ‘you had to be precise with your measurements and cuts.’

In August of 1967, Russ married Mary Carol Jensen in Geneva, MN and they had 2 sons – Jason Carl in 1970 and Brian Dale in 1973. They divorced in 1984 and following work opportunities, Russ relocated to central Minnesota in Milaca, MN. On March 22, 1987, Russ married Arlene Robak. Their union expanded Russ’ family to a total of 8 with the addition of stepchildren - Lottie, James (Jim), Christine (Chris) and Amy. Russ and Arlene moved to Foreston, MN and remodeled a LOVING home. Russ and Arlene always welcomed friends and family into their home for a beverage and delicious food that Arlene always had prepared – and MANY MANY laughs! They would enjoy weekends with friends on their ATV’s in Northern MN. In the Fall, Russ would enjoy deer hunting with friends and sons. Russ also enjoyed ice fishing during the winter months in retirement. In recent years, Russ would enjoy time in his Gazebo with friends and/or quietly observing the wildlife that kept busy gathering food that he would provide them in the many nearby feeders.

Preceded in death by parents Carl and Geneva Vogt, loving wife Arlene, stepchildren Christine Reed, James Robak, sister Deloris Nygaard, and nephew Rodney Vogt.

Survived by his sons, Jason (Sandra) Vogt, Sartell, MN, Brian (Amy) Vogt, Alden, MN, stepchildren Lottie (Richard) Lindberg of Princeton, MN, Amy (Michael) Leonard of Hastings, MN, and Greg Reed of Bradford, NH. Grandchildren Megan Vogt, Marissa Vogt, Conner Vogt, Tia Vogt, Amanda (John) Pratka, Ryan (Stephanie) Lindberg, Richelle Lindberg, Kyle (Katie) Reed, Jacob Reed, Lauren Reed, Jarritt (Julia) Leonard, and Jaxson Leonard. Great-Grandchildren Alexis Schubert, Trent Pratka, Owen Lindberg, and Michael Reed. Great-great-grandchild Maverik Greenwood. In addition, Russ is survived by his siblings, DeWayne (Norma) Vogt, Donald (Rita) Vogt, Roger (Jean) Vogt, LaVae (Arvin) Ringen and Larry (DeAnne) Vogt, along with many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life will take place at the Milaca American Legion on Sunday, September 15, 2024 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Military Honors at 3:00pm with a Family Burial Service at Foreston Cemetery in Foreston, MN to follow.

Special THANK YOU to the many nurses, doctors, social workers and aides at CentraCare Hospital in St. Cloud, MN and The Gardens at Foley in Foley, MN. The care and compassion that you provided Russ will always be cherished. Your interactions may have been brief, but your impact will be forever! Thank You All So Very Much!