Obituary of Loren Russel (Rusty) Irvine

Loren Russel (Rusty) Irvine passed away on August 2, 2024, at the age of 83. He is survived by his beloved wife Gretchen Kranz Irvine, daughters Sue and Peggy Irvine, stepchildren Adam (Karla) Colwell and Amy (Rob) Kranz, and grandchildren Kieran, Ananda, Lulu, Saoirse Bluhm, and Emma and Henry Colwell. Rusty was preceded in death by his first wife Joanne, parents John and Sarah Irvine, brother Duane Irvine and nephews James and Thomas Irvine.

Born in Breckenridge Minnesota, Rusty attended school in a one-room schoolhouse and graduated from Tintah High School. From a young age, he worked on the family farm, driving the tractor from age 9 and assisting his father in acquiring and managing livestock. Rusty graduated from University of Minnesota and was a lifelong entrepreneur, always seeking new ventures and opportunities, including developing land in Eden Prairie as well as serving as president of the Eden Prairie School Board.

Rusty served as a loadmaster in the Air Force Reserve, where he had a memorable moment during the Cuban Missile Crisis, being en route to Cuba when President Kennedy called off the attack.

Rusty will be remembered for his wonderful analytical mind and his kind heart. He loved to travel and, with his wife, traveled to every continent save Antarctica. He was an avid sports fan, and was especially loyal to the Minnesota Vikings and UM Gophers. His family and friends will cherish the memories of his dedication, hard work, and the love he shared with those around him.

On March 16, 2022 Rusty moved to White Pine Senior Living, Mendota Heights for care. Thank you to his caregivers.

A Celebration of his life will be held at Minnesota Cremation Society,St. Paul 1979 Old Hudson Road, 55119on Saturday, August 17 at 11am

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project