Garvin Friese

Garvin Albert Friese, age 92, died September 25, 2025 at Cannon Rivers in Cannon Falls, Minn. where he was residing. Garvin was born to Albert and Genevieve (Ottun) Friese on March 24, 1933 on the family farm in rural Wanamingo. Garvin was baptized and confirmed (1946) at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Minneola Township, MN. He graduated from Wanamingo High School on May 31, 1951. In December of that year, he enlisted in the US Navy and graduated from the Naval Air Technical Training (Airman School) in Jacksonville, FL on May 29, 1952. While based in San Diego, CA, in March of 1954 Garvin was recognized in a team of four by the Pacific Southwest Airlines for their success in decreasing the number of days from fourteen to ten needed to install wiring and communication systems in planes. After his time in the service, he attended the University of Minnesota for 1½ years.

 Most of Garvin's vocational career involved construction of many homes and farm buildings in the Goodhue County, Minn. area. In the early 1970s, Garvin purchased land west of Wanamingo. He built a shed with a bunkhouse where he lived during construction of his home, which later housed his many Western and wildlife themed collectibles. He enjoyed the hobby of woodworking. He continued flying throughout his adult life, owning and operating two small Cessna planes. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoying trips and also flights to many Canadian fishing spots with friends and his brother Roger.

 Garvin moved to Cannon Rivers in Cannon Falls, MN earlier this year when he became unable to care for himself at his farm home. 

 Garvin is survived by his brother Roger (Shirley) Friese, of Wanamingo, Minn. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Russell (Catherine), Donald (Jackie) and infant Gerald; also four sisters, Lorraine (Arlin) Munson, LouBelle (Norbert) Sieben, Avis (Ed) Ordalen, and Shirley (Earl) Strand. 

 The memorial service will take place at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, October 11th, 2025 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Minneola Township, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place in the Church Cemetery, with coffee fellowship to follow.