Louis Carl Petsolt

Louis Petsolt lived his life with purpose, generosity, and an enduring sense of adventure for ninety years. Born in Minneapolis, MN, in 1934, his journey took him across the world, shaping a career, a family, and a legacy defined by kindness, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. From a young age, Lou took on the role of caregiver, helping support his family and learning early on the value of responsibility and compassion. That deep sense of devotion stayed with him throughout his life, shaping the way he cared for those around him. He met his childhood sweetheart, Adelle (Holmquist) Petsolt, in middle school, and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and a shared spirit of exploration. She was spontaneous; he was a planner. They complemented each other in every way. After her passing in 2012, he carried her memory forward while still embracing life's next chapter, sharing companionship and meaningful years with Carolyn Buchanan, whose presence brought him comfort and joy. Lou was the foundation of his family-its steady center, its quiet strength. His greatest pride was in the people he raised, guided, and loved. He instilled in his children the values that defined him: compassion, education, hard work, and the courage to embrace adventure. But above all, he taught by example that learning never stops. Whether through books, travel, or conversation, he was always seeking knowledge and encouraging those around him to do the same. He believed that curiosity was a lifelong gift-one he passed down to his children and grandchildren, urging them to ask questions, explore the world, and never be afraid to try something new. Whether gathered at the family cabin, playing cribbage, or simply sharing stories, his presence was a constant, shaping the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The sight of him at the helm of the pontoon boat, a grandchild on his lap, was a fixture of summer-one of the many ways he ensured his family would always have a place to come together. His career took him across the world, leading sales and marketing teams in China and India at a time when few Americans had worked in those regions. He won numerous awards, but what mattered most to him was the impact he had on others-the advice he shared, the mentorship he offered, the opportunities he helped create. Adventure wasn't just something Lou pursued-it was something he encouraged in everyone around him. He saw the world not as a place to settle but as something to experience fully. Christmases were spent as Santa, ensuring magic for every child. Conversations were meaningful with a well-placed bit of wisdom and humor. Faith and friendship were constants, and his lifelong friends, including the best man and maid of honor from his wedding, remained by his side. Even in his final years, through illness, he spoke not of endings but of falling forward-a reminder that life is always moving, always worth embracing. Though his absence leaves an undeniable void, he has done what he always intended: set his family up for success. He leaves behind not just memories but a legacy-one of love, adventure, and an unshakable foundation for the generations to come. Lou is reunited with Adelle and leaves behind a family who will continue his legacy: daughters Vicki Jefferis (Jim), Kathy Berglund (John), Susan Baldelli, and Jan Petsolt, son David Petsolt (Kate), seventeen grandchildren, an ever-expanding crew of great-grandchildren, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. A celebration of his life will be held at Shepherd of the Valley Church in Afton, MN, on Thursday, March 27th, at 10 AM (14107 Hudson Rd S, Afton, MN 55001). In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those who knew Lou to honor his memory by mentoring someone, as he did throughout his life-offering guidance, wisdom, and support to those who need it most. Most of all, they ask that you honor him by seeking out something new-an experience, a story, a challenge-and meeting it with the same curiosity and courage that defined his life.

Tributes

Louis Carl Petsolt

June 14, 1934 - February 22, 2025

Tributes

Louis Carl Petsolt

June 14, 1934 - February 22, 2025

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