Cleon Michael Lange age 63 of Willow Lake Township passed away Sunday, September 9, 2012 peacefully in his sleep at home.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 12 at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Wabasso.

Visitation is 9:00-11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the church.  Private family burial will be held.  Memorials are preferred to Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, or the Redwood Animal Shelter.  Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Cleon Michael Lange was born August 24, 1949 in Redwood Falls, MN to Oskar and Bonnie (Fruge) Lange.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church where he has been a lifelong member.  Cleon graduated from Wabasso High School in 1967.  He married his high school sweetheart, Diane Hoffman, on August 12, 1972 at St. Matthew’s.  They made their home on the family farm and ran a diversified livestock and grain farming operation.  They were blessed with two daughters, Shari and Kristi.  Cleon wore several hats: a farmer, seed corn dealer, ambulance and school bus driver, auctioneer, and truck driver.  He was so thankful to those around him for the opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.  Cleon loved farming and took pride in his fields.  He was always interested in the latest machinery and often visited dealerships to learn more.  Occasionally he would offer suggestions to the company in designing implements.  Cleon was interested in replica models of tractors and farm machinery and enjoyed visiting with others who shared his interest at trade shows.  Cleon loved animals and critters enjoyed a mutual affection for him.  He rode motorcycle, hunted and fished, and always had a lively story to share about his adventures.  Cleon looked forward to spending time with his family and visiting with his Louisiana cousins, friends, and neighbors.  He relaxed by playing computer games, doing word puzzles, and watching movies.  Cleon and Diane celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary and his 63rd birthday in August.

Cleon is survived by his wife Diane; daughters Shari and Kristi; sister Lonnie (Larry) Leske; brother Larry (Vickie) Lange; mother-in-law Elvera Hoffman; nephews and nieces.  He is preceded in death by his parents Oskar and Bonnie Lange and father-in-law Elmer Hoffman.