Delbert Dean Heidemann, age 82, entered eternal life with Jesus on March 7, 2025 at his home in Plato, MN.
He was born on September 7, 1942 in Browerville, MN to Albert and Elva (Minke) Heidemann and he had two sisters and one brother. Delbert was baptized into God’s kingdom on September 27, 1942 in Browerville, MN, and later was confirmed in Christ on June 10, 1956 in Eagle Bend, MN.
Delbert grew up on a farm where he began his love of animals, nature and tractors. He enjoyed going to dance halls with his siblings as well as dancing and listening to polka music.
He graduated and received his diploma from Browerville High School in May, 1961. In April, 1962 he joined the Army National Guard and served 6 years dedicating his service to his country. He was a machinist, operated tanks, shot carbines, was a rifleman, became a sharp shooter/sniper and was grade Specialist E-5 when he was honorably discharged in December, 1968 earning many honorary medals.
Delbert was employed at Eaton Corporation, Hydraulics Division in Eden Prairie for 40 years as a machinist. After retiring, he continued working in his home shop on various projects for himself and others. He was an inventor, entrepreneur, sheet metal welder, and a machinist.
His hobbies were building and painting race cars, Allis Chalmers tractors, constructing engines, working on 1950 – 1970 sports cars; especially his 55 Chevrolet, watching old time westerns; with his favorite being John Wayne and enjoying car rides through the countryside to see all the farmhouses aside the corn and soy bean fields.
One of Delbert’s favorite passions was working with his car buddies and spending time “souping up” the engines until they were at top notch power capacity and running super smooth. His laughter of delight and excitement could be heard above the loudly purring engines.
Delbert was a genuine, kind hearted man that would be there for anyone who asked for help. He had a comforting way about him that was heartfelt by others. His laughter and humor were like no other; he had a special way of making others smile. He was a teacher to many and also an endearing friend. His love of strawberry rhubarb pie, Baby Ruth candy bars and his favorite Coca Cola Zero “CCO” will never be forgotten.
His endearing legacy will be long lived through his loving family. He was an amazing father and friend. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him and remembered by all the lives he touched during his lifetime.
Delbert is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, his parents and siblings: Jeanette (Roger) Drevlow and Norbert Heidemann.
Survived by his daughter, Holly (Joel) Windschitl, grandchildren: Megan (fiancé Don McKee) Windschitl and Dylan Windschitl; and his sister, Dorothy Kaminski.
Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 22, 2025 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELS) in Glencoe, MN with Pastor Mark Rauh presiding. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service.
“I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” John 11:25, 26