Lyland Edward-Otto Reich, 97, Benson
Lyland Edward-Otto Reich was born May 13, 1916, the son of William and Amanda (Boese) Reich. He was born and raised on the family farm in Marysland Township, Swift County.
Lyland was baptized June 16, 1916 and was confirmed July 13, 1930, both at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Moyer Township. In 1930 he graduated from country school in the eighth grade. Lyland farmed his entire life and was still driving tractor when he was 93 years old.
April 16, 1950, Lyland was united in marriage to Margaret Grothe at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Danvers. This union was blessed with seven children: Carol, Clarice, Violet, Vivian, Milton, Marvin, and Mary. He was very active in church as choir director, Sunday School teacher, Luther League, and Christmas Program Director. Lyland began a 63 year tenure as the church organist in 1941. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. His favorite pastime was to sing with his family and watch them play games. Lyland’s faith was very important to him and he wanted everyone to know Jesus as their Savior.
Lyland was called home to the Lord December 13, 2013 at Appleton Area Health Services - Nursing Home. He had attained 97 years and seven months of age.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret of Benson; children: Carol (Dave) Runke of Willmar, Clarice (Randy) Novak of Willmar, Violet (Robin) Baerwaldt of Big Stone City, SD, Vivian (Doug) Clark of Benson, Milton Reich of Holloway, Marvin Reich of Willmar, and Mary (Greg) Tensen of Brooten; grandchildren: Matthew (Alicia) Runke, Doug (Margaret) Runke, Nathan and Alissa Runke, Amanda (Nathan) Hansen, Beth Novak, Marissa and Megan Baerwaldt, Chad and Josh Clark, Ben, Jacob, and Cassandra Tensen; step-grandchild, Les (Rosie) Baerwaldt; great-grandchildren: Madison and Ellie Runke, Nolan and Avery Runke, Morgan and baby-to-be Hansen; step-great-grandchildren: Amberlee and Evan Baerwaldt; sisters: Herlanda Koosmann of Owatonna, Ruby (Merlin) Schulz of Holloway; nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Lyland is preceded in death by his parents, William and Amanda Reich; brother-in-law, Christ Koosmann.
Blessed be the memory of Lyland Edward-Otto Reich.
Arrangements were with Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson.
