Willard L. Dehn, age 87 of Dayton, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, October 1, 2020 at home.

Will was born on June 15, 1933 in Anoka to Leo and Florence (Scherber) Dehn.  He attended school in a one room schoolhouse located on French Lake in Dayton.  After graduating from Anoka Senior High, Will attended college at St. Thomas, and returned to help his father on the family farm.  He was drafted in December of 1955, and served in the Army for two years.  After receiving his Honorable Discharge, he and his brother Allen, purchased a farm and riding academy in Dayton.  They began farming and converted the academy into what is now "Dehn's Country Manor".

Will was a life-long farmer and passed his love of farming on to his sons, who continue the family farm tradition.  He had a strong faith and was a parishioner at St. Stephen's Catholic Church for over 60 years.  Will was a Charter Member of the Dayton Lions Club and remained a member until his death.

In addition to his parents, Will was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Mary; brothers, Earl and Gerald Dehn.  He is survived by his children, Joy (Tim) Murphy, Brad (Kari) Dehn, Mary Kay (Tim) Jensen, Bob (Carrie) Dehn, and Sue (Jeff) Johnson; grandchildren, Tom, Dan, Joe, Becky, Megan, Sam, Will, Emily, Grace and Matt; great-grandchildren, Amelia, Charlotte, Matthew and Paige; brother, Allen; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private service will be held.

Memorials are preferred to the Multiple Myeloma Foundation ( www.myeloma.org ) or St. Stephen's Catholic Church ( www.ststephenchurch.org )

Arrangements entrusted to Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home of Anoka (763) 421-0220