Victor Alan Lien, age 81, of Aitkin, MN, passed away March 2, 2026, after a short battle with high-grade B-cell lymphoma. 

He was born October 12, 1944, in Berkeley, CA to Bernard and Alpha Lien. At the end of the war, Vic’s family moved back to Minnesota and farmed in South Dakota. He attended Brookings County District 70, a one-room schoolhouse, from first through eighth grade, and later attended high school in Hendricks, Minnesota. As a young man, he worked on the family farm and, when he was old enough, helped his father drilling wells — work that helped shape his strong work ethic and practical skills. 

After high school, Victor joined the United States Army and was stationed at the Nike Missile Site base near St. Bonifacius, Minnesota. It was there that he met the love of his life, Janet. Following his service in the Army, he attended Dunwoody College of Technology, where he became a master electrician. He was a proud member of the IBEW Local 292 for over 55 years, dedicating his career to his trade and earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike. 

Victor and Janet married November 19, 1966, and began their life together in Minneapolis, then Maple Grove, MN. It was there that they adopted their son, Greg, in 1973, and their daughter, Jennifer, three years later. They later moved to the country in Mayer, MN, where they built their home to raise their children and enjoy country life. When Vic and Jan retired, they built their lake home in Aitkin and enjoyed 18 wonderful years of retirement together. Vic loved life on the lake — fishing in the summer and on the ice in the winter, boating, hunting with Greg, and simply sitting on the back porch watching the loons and sunsets. He enjoyed roaming around the property on his John Deere lawn mower, spending time in his workshop, and sharing mornings with Janet over coffee and a game of cards. He and Janet also loved traveling — taking road trips to the west coast in the winter, National Parks, camper trips on their own or with family, and visiting Las Vegas.  

Victor was a quiet man, so when he spoke, you stopped and listened. Greg and Jennifer had the best dad ever, receiving such great guidance and unconditional love from him. He will be remembered for his steady presence, strength of character, and unwavering devotion to his family, touching countless lives through his kindness and quiet generosity. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Gregory Lien; parents Bernard and Alpha Lien; his sisters Janet Leuning and Thelma Thoreson; his nephew Derek Lien; and his Goldendoodle buddy Zeke, who brought him joy with car rides and afternoon snacks. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Janet; his daughter Jennifer Preston (TJ); his granddaughters Taylor (Jake), Avery (Cameron), and Kira; his brother Kenneth (Kathryn) Lien, his sister Mary Lien; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; 34 nieces and nephews; 88 great-nieces and great-nephews; and many extended family members and dear friends. 

Victor’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion lives on in the family he cherished, the community he touched, and the countless memories shared during his 81 years. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 11-2pm, with a spiritual message at 11:30am at the Deerwood Auditorium, 23770 Forest Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444.