Delbert Schlapkohl

Delbert Vernon Schlapkohl of Crookston, MN passed away on September 5th, 2025. He was born August 16th, 1947 in Luverne, MN to Vernon and Eunice (Brockberg) Schlapkohl the oldest of six siblings. He was baptized at Trosky Lutheran Church. Delbert grew up on the family farm and helped with the livestock, dairy cows and tending the crops. He also worked for many local farmers until he graduated from high school.

Delbert attended Verdi Public school and graduated in 1965. In high school he was active in football, basketball and choir. From there he went to Canby Vocational School for one year to study accounting. Delbert enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1966. He was stationed aboard the USS Hancock CVA19 as an RM3 off the coast of Japan. After four years of service in the Navy, Delbert returned home to Canby, MN where he began his career with local Cenex Cooperatives. He worked as an office credit manager at various Cenex locations throughout Minnesota until 1999. From there he managed the Northland Inn in Crookston, MN until he retired in 2009. During his retirement years he worked part time at a convenient store in Crookston for 14 years.

Delbert enjoyed many summers camping at Bagley Park Campground. He also enjoyed tinkering in his garage with woodworking projects making each of his grandchildren a toy box. Delbert also filled his time fishing, playing cards, watching the MN Vikings and Twins and he loved his morning coffee. His signature cowboy hat and boots made him unforgettable when you met him!

Delbert is survived by his children Brian Schlapkohl of Hendrum, MN and Dawn (Jeremy) Paulsrud of Hillsboro, ND; four grandchildren Laura, Emma, Jack and Allyson; three brothers Darwin Schlapkohl (and his friend Mary), Canby, MN, Daryl Schlapkohl, Lake Benton, MN and Daniel Schlapkohl (and his friend Dena), Bozeman, MT; one sister Carolyn Willert, Brookings, SD and several nieces and nephews. Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Duane, brother-in-law Robert Willert and sisters-in-law Diane Schlapkohl and Carol Schlapkohl.

Delbert's family will receive friends on Wednesday September 10, 2025 at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home from 5:00pm until 7:00pm. His family will hold an additional visitation on Friday September 12 at Hartquist Funeral Home (710 4th St SE, Pipestone, MN) from 1:00pm until 3:00pm with interment in St John Immanuel Cemetery in Verdi, MN.