Harlan “Har” Lindgren, age 86 of Shakopee, passed away on July 11, 2022. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022 from 1:30-3PM with a Celebration of Life Service beginning at 3PM at Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home, 833 S. Marschall Rd., Shakopee. Pastor Ken Krause will preside, and Harlan’s grandchildren will act as urn bearers.
On September 10, 1935 in Grafton, ND parents Philip and Esther (Larson) Lindgren celebrated the birth of their son, Harlan Dean Lindgren. He was the middle of their five children to be raised on the family farm in Park River, ND. From a young age, Harlan had a teasing sense of humor and hardworking attitude. While he often teased his sisters and caused mischief with his Shetland pony whenever his parents were out, Harlan dedicated himself to helping on the farm. When he was only 16 years old, his father died unexpectedly. This was a difficult, yet formative time for Harlan—it reinforced his love of family and taught him responsibility.
While singing at a wedding, Harlan was introduced to the bride’s sister, Beverly Johnson. They began a long-distance relationship. On October 21, 1955 Harlan and Bev were united in marriage in Clearbrook, MN. Blessed with three children and 66 years together, Harlan was a dedicated family man. As a family, they enjoyed camping, eating out, and spending Sunday afternoons together. Harlan especially loved his grandchildren and cultivated meaningful relationships with each. On birthdays, Harlan would take them out to their restaurant of choice.
Along with his brother, Harlan worked on the family farm until 1968. Around this time, he completed his education by attending North Dakota State College of Science. He earned a degree as a diesel mechanic, leading to a new lifelong career. In the early 70’s Harlan’s family moved to Shakopee where he worked for Ziegler Heavy Equipment in Bloomington and later General Tractor of Shakopee. In his retirement, Harlan continued to work by helping his family with remodeling projects, car repairs, and often returning to North Dakota to assist his brother-in-law on the farm. Harlan also volunteered and served on the board of directors for STEER Inc., a missionary organization focused on agricultural and livestock programs to help spread the gospel.
Throughout his life, Harlan was never afraid to try new things! He taught himself to swim, golf, and downhill ski in his middle age. Despite health setbacks, Harlan endured and never complained. Rather, he remained focused on his family and his faith by reading the bible daily.
A determined and loving man, Harlan is deeply missed by his wife, Bev Lindgren; children, Melody (Dale) Mathison, Garth (Kristen) Lindgren, Phil Lindgren; grandchildren, Tyler Mathison, Rachel Mathison; Katie (Jon) Anderson, Kari (Ryan) Roukert, Marie (Stephen) Davitt, Jonah (Lyndsey Selisky) Lindgren and Andy (Katey) Lindgren; great-grandchildren, Bryn, Zane, and Adrianna; sisters, Lynn Karges, Arlyss Eby; other loving relatives and friends.
Harlan is greeted in Heaven by his parents; siblings, Allston (Dorothy) Lindgren, Marilyn (Ralph) Korn; infant sister, Doreen; brothers-in-law, Dean Karges, and Dave Eby.
