Richard Kersten

Richard Frederick Kersten, 95, a lifelong resident of Rochester, MN, died on July 24, 2021 at The Pillar's Hospice House. A private graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Rochester. Richard was born July 7, 1926 in Rochester to Charles and Bertha (Witt) Kersten. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1944. Richard proudly served in the Navy during World War II as a Signalman 3rd Class (USS John Land) from 1944-1946. After the war he spent some well-deserved and special time with his brothers at the family cabin on East Lost Lake in Ottertail County, a place he loved. He attended the University of Minnesota and graduated in 1951 with a BA in math and statistics. On Sept. 29, 1951, he married Carol Cray. Richard worked in the statistics department at the Mayo Clinic after college, then joined his father in their family business, Kersten's Furs, where he worked until his retirement. Richard was an active member of Kiwanis, an organization that was special to him, and a member of Zumbro Lutheran Church. Richard enjoyed the outdoors, camping, canoeing, biking and hiking with his children and grandchildren. He helped his children with numerous home projects and helped build the family cabin in Chippewa Falls, WI where he enjoyed spending time. He was also an avid gardener. Richard is survived by three children, Jane Kersten of New York, NY, Gretchen Kersten of Shoreview, MN, and Charles Kersten of Eau Claire, WI, four grandchildren, Ben, Elizabeth (Paul Strombom), and Paul Weidman and Andrew Kersten, and three great grandchildren, Olivia and Will Weidman and Caroline Strombom. He was preceded in death by his wife Carol, his parents, and his four brothers Robert, Donald, Edward and Gordon. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Kersten family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com