Donald A. Harstad

Donald Arland Harstad, 98, of Hoyt Lakes, passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at St Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth.

Don was born on January 30, 1927 to George and Alpha Harstad on a farm near Donnelly, Minnesota, where he was one of eleven children. He enlisted in the Army, and was part of the infantry occupying forces in Japan during World War II.

Don married Betty Boness in 1953, and they had one child together, Arlen. He worked for the Erie Mining Company as a shop mechanic and then a foreman, going on to drive school buses after his retirement. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting and fishing.

Don was a faithful husband and a good father. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his son, Arlen Harstad (Hoyt Lakes); sister Leona Carlson (Water Park, MN); and brother George Harstad (Herman, MN); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Betty.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Faith Lutheran Church in Hoyt Lakes, with Pastor Charles Barnes officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, with a luncheon following. Interment will be at a later date in Vinger Cemetery in Donnelly, MN.