Vaughn Stengl

Aug. 5, 1930-Aug. 3, 2009

Vaughn F. “Casey” Stengl, 78, of Detroit Lakes, died Monday, August 3, 2009 at Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes.

Vaughn “Casey” Stengl was born to Joseph and Anna K. (Damschen) Stengl on Aug. 5, 1930 in Ray, N.D. He was raised and educated in Pelican Rapids, along with Detroit Lakes. After school, he enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served his country during the Korean War with the Signal Corps.

After his honorable discharge, Casey returned home and started working for Swift and Company. On Feb. 14, 1955 he married Gwen Conger in Pelican Rapids. He moved on to work with Detroit Lakes Granite Works for a few years before taking a job with Madison Silo. Casey later took a job with Pipeline Construction, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator. He and his family lived in various states and cities while Casey was with Pipeline Construction.

A construction accident in 1983 forced him to retire early, but Casey stayed active, working on his many projects along with keeping up on his yard and garden. Casey was well known for his outdoor Christmas decorations. On April 25, 1974, Casey celebrated his spiritual birthday.

Casey enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, dancing with his wife Gwen, playing scrabble, and gardening where he raised his tomatoes and raspberries. He also enjoyed carpentry, and was always willing to help his children with remodeling projects.

Casey was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa, and cherished every moment spent with his family.

Casey will be remembered and missed by his wife, Gwen Stengl of Detroit Lakes; daughters, Sheryl (Lloyd) Knowles of Detroit Lakes and Rhonda (David) Motteberg of Richwood. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren, along with one sister, Joyce Bakke of Detroit Lakes; one brother, Jack Stengl of Norman, Okla.; and one son-in-law, Robert Anderson of Callaway.

Preceding Casey in death were his parents; daughter, Jacki Anderson; three brothers, Howard, Herbert and Wencil; and one sister, Audrey Robley.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, with a 7 p.m. Prayer Service, at the Christian Fellowship Church of Detroit Lakes, continuing for one hour prior to services on Saturday.

Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at Christian Fellowship Church in Detroit Lakes.

The David-Donehower Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes is serving the family. Memories of Casey may be shared online at www.daviddonehower.com.