Russell Owen Flaata

Russell Flaata, of Granite Falls, unexpectedly passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar at the age of 58.

Celebration of life services will be held Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 3:00 PM at Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home in Granite Falls with a visitation from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM.

Arrangements are with Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home of Granite Falls.  www.andersontebeest.com

Russell Owen Flaata was born March 31, 1964 in Granite Falls, MN to Owen and Carol (Haselwood) Flaata. Russell attended and graduated from Renville-Sacred Heart High School in 1982 and went on to attend Canby Vo-Tech, pursuing a degree as an auto mechanic.  Russell enlisted in the United States National Guard in 1981 and served his country until his honorable discharge in 2001.  He was united in marriage to Kimberly Barron on February 18, 1984 in Renville, MN. They were blessed with two beautiful daughters. They made their home in Granite Falls where Russell worked for Kollen Motors for many years.  He also worked for Adams Motors, Fagen and most recently Ziegler CAT.

Russell was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Gophers and Kansas City Chiefs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing golf and he enjoyed sharing his passions with his grandchildren. Russell loved spending time with his family the most. He took great pride in being a dance dad for his daughters and most recently showing support for his grandchildren’s activities. Russell wanted to retire in the beautiful Fort Myers, FL with his wife Kimberly. He will be remembered as the best father, grandfather and husband. Russell will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly; daughters, Jessica (Ryne) Paterson of Okoboji, IA and Kaitlyn Flaata (fiancé, Mike Swanson) of Jordan, MN; grandchildren, Ava, Tatum, Aubrey, Brantley, and Bristol; his beloved dog, Charlie; siblings, Margo (Keith) Holien, Denise Hammre, Ruth Goldenstein, and Bruce (Lynn) Flaata; brothers and sisters-in-law, Lisa Lawrence, Rick (Julie) Barron, Tracey (Al) Ceplecha; and several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law; sister, Jan Dahl; and brother-in-law, Don Hammre.