Darrel Allen Thomford

Darrel “Bucky” Thomford, 87, of Zumbrota, died Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the Zumbrota Care Center with his family by his side.

He was born May 29, 1938 in Red Wing to Anard “Jeff” and Hazel (Aase) Thomford. He grew up on the family farm and graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1956. After high school he served in the National Guard. On February 1, 1959 he married Rochelle Kozlowski at Elstad Lutheran in Lanesboro. After they were married, Bucky took over the family dairy farm where he and Rochelle raised their three children.

Bucky also operated a bottled water distribution business for many years, along with being deeply passionate about conservation. Throughout his entire life, stewardship and land management was paramount.

Bucky was a life-long member of United Redeemer Lutheran in Zumbrota where he served on the church council. His speech on “Giving” is spoken about at church. Always a wizard with words, he was a Toastmaster. He was a member of the Farmer’s Union, the Lion’s Club, served on the AMPI board, was a charter member of Zumbrota Samaritan’s Society, and participated in taking the 2000 Census.

Rochelle and Bucky also enjoyed their trips together to many parts of the country.

His diverse interests and hunger for knowledge made friends come easy not only in Zumbrota, but in other local communities where he enjoyed spending his time.

He will be missed by many, including his wife of 67 years, Rochelle; three children, Patti (Mike) Budensiek of Zumbrota, Andrew Thomford of Zumbrota and his friend Carolyn, Martha Thomford of Rochester; 3 grandchildren, Riley Budensiek of Zumbrota, Taylor (Dre) Berrios of San Francisco, California, and Connor Budensiek of Zumbrota; one great-grandson who is still on the way, as well as his nephews and many extended family members and dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and 3 siblings, James (Arlene), Don, and William (Barb) Thomford.

A memorial service will be 11 a.m., Monday, February 23, 2026 at United Redeemer Lutheran Church in Zumbrota with Rev. Jessie Bakken Busch officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church. Burial will be at the Zumbrota Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com