Kenneth W. Brouwer

Kenneth W. Brouwer, age 89, of Renville and formerly of Prinsburg, passed away Monday evening, May 11, at the Ren Villa Nursing Home.

A private family graveside service will be held at  Bunde Christian Reformed Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Memorials to honor Ken’s life may be directed to Central Minnesota Christian School in Prinsburg. Arrangements are with the Tri-County Funeral Home in Prinsburg.  www.tricountyfuneral.com

Kenneth Willard Brouwer was born on June 15, 1930, on the family farm near Prinsburg, the son of George and Marie (Taatjes) Brouwer. He grew up in the Prinsburg community and received his education at CMCS. Ken served in the Army from 1953 to August 1955, and was stationed for the majority of his service in Korea. On June 5, 1957, Ken was united in marriage to Marlys A. Peterson and they lived and farmed in Holland Township.  

Ken was a life-long member of Bunde Christian Reformed Church and served as a deacon and usher. He was a member of the Cattlemen’s Association and served on the CMCS school board. Ken loved farming and was an avid reader and learner about agriculture, business, and mechanics. In addition to his farming work, Ken established a side business doing custom corn shelling, silage chopping, field tiling, and mechanical work for other farmers. Ken loved building and fixing equipment in the shop. He was known for his hard work, but also for his friendly manner, taking time to visit with any and all who stopped by “for coffee” at the farm.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marlys of Renville; four children, Becky (and Bryan) Bandstra of Pella, IA., Rev. Thomas (and Wendy) Brouwer of Point Blank, TX., Scott (and Peggy) Brouwer of Cottage Grove and Rev. Mark (and Charlene) Brouwer of Princeton; thirteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Also surviving is one sister, Gladys Alsum of Willmar, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Wally.