Allyn Wachholz

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Allyn Wachholz, who left us peacefully on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on November 8, 1936, in Warren Township to Arthur and Jenny Wachholz, Allyn lived a life filled with hard work, love, and devotion to his family and community.

Growing up, Allyn attended Immanuel Lutheran School in Silo until the eighth grade and briefly continued his education at Lewiston-Altura High School. However, his true calling soon led him back to the farm, where he began working alongside his father in Lewiston.

On September 10, 1960, Allyn married Delores Waby, and together they embarked on a journey in farming that would define Allyn's life. They moved to Chatfield to take over the Waby family farm, where Allyn became a dedicated dairy farmer. He was known for his love of animals, his self-sufficient spirit, and his commitment to quality, earning the title of a Grade A dairy farmer. His hard work paid off with numerous awards for milk production from Plainview Milk Products, showcasing his dedication to excellence.

In addition to farming, Allyn was an active member of the Elmira Township Board, contributing to the local community he cherished. He was also very involved with St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chatfield, often times being seen as an usher, and other times behind the scenes on the finance committee. After the loss of Delores in 1996, Allyn remarried Sharon "Kay" Nickelsen, whom he married on December 14, 1997. Together, they shared a passion for dancing and traveling to polka festivals, bringing joy and vibrancy to each other's lives.

Allyn is remembered not just as a farmer, but as a loving husband, a devoted family man, and a friend to many. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love for the land, and a deep connection to his community.

He is survived by his daughter, Ann (Steve) Hershey of Rochester; granddaughter, Deborah Hershey of Grand Forks and Elizabeth Hershey of Rochester; step-daughters, Wendy Crawford, Jody Leise; step-grandchildren, Riley, Ellie, Josiah, Jackson, Jedrek; sister, Janice Jacobson of La Crosse, WI; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Wachholz of Lewiston.

Allyn is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Jenny; wives, Delores and Sharon "Kay"; 4 infant daughters; grandson, Peter; brother, Wayne; and sister, Marion Schwantz.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, February, 18, 2025 at 11am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles, MN. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service.

Allyn will be laid to rest at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Chatfield, MN.