Loyal Younggren lived 100 incredible years—a century filled with laughter, love, and stories that will echo through generations. He passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to family and country.

Just months ago, Loyal celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends—a joyful milestone that perfectly reflected the life he lived: full of love, connection, and gratitude. Loyal had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. He loved people, and people loved him. His quick wit, warm smile, and endless stories will be cherished forever.

Born on Jesse Lake in Bowstring Township, Minnesota, Loyal was the second of five sons of Svea and Evald Younggren. At 17, Loyal answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Navy during World War II. His brilliance shone early—scoring 98% on the Eddy Test and training in radar technology, then a classified term. From boot camp in Idaho to Pearl Harbor, Guam, and Saipan, Loyal served with honor and pride.

After WWII, Loyal continued his education at Itasca Junior College and the University of Minnesota. When opportunity called, he rejoined the Navy full-time, serving in Korea and during Vietnam before retiring as a Master Chief in 1967. His military career spanned three wars and countless sacrifices, a testament to his courage and commitment.

Education was his next mission. Loyal earned his teaching certificate and master’s degree from the University of Minnesota and taught electronics, math, physics, and astronomy at Bloomington’s Lincoln and Jefferson High Schools. He also taught evening classes at Brown Institute and Northwest Electronics Institute, sharing his knowledge with countless students.

In 1950, Loyal married Mary “Eileen” Dahlke. Together they raised three children—Lynn, Mark, and Nancy—and built a life rich in love and adventure. They enjoyed camping trips and fishing adventures, road journeys in their motorhome, and gatherings at their Wisconsin lake home. They especially enjoyed time spent with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren! Loyal loved golf, ham radio, and winters in Arizona, where he taught computer science to fellow seniors. He enjoyed being part of the Dwan Men’s Golf League and giving back through roles like volunteering at the Armed Forces Center at MSP

Loyal was a man who never met a stranger—hugely social, full of wit and wisdom, and always ready with a story or a one-liner. His humor and warmth made every gathering brighter. Many of his sayings live on through his family, repeated with smiles and laughter.

Loyal was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years, Eileen; daughter Lynn Hinnenkamp; son Mark Younggren; son-in-law Ron Hinnenkamp; sister-in-law Alice Neubarth, his parents; and siblings. He is survived by daughter Nancy Younggren Kleve; grandsons Dan (Jess), Tom, Bobby (Sarah), and Josh (Krista); great-grandchildren Colin, Alivia, Emily, Hailey, and Kaden; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Steve and Bonnie Schmitz; brother-in-law Art Neubarth, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in May 2026. Loyal’s story is one of love, service, and joy—a life that touched everyone he met. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.