Milbert W. Mehlhoff
Milbert Warren Mehlhoff, 95, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by loved ones. He began his eternal life with Christ June 11, 2024, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy that will continue to inspire.
Milbert was born October 4, 1928, in rural McPherson County (South Dakota) to Emmanuel and Magdelina (Heyne) Mehlhoff. He attended a one-room country school in the Leola area and worked on the family farm while at home. He was united in marriage to his beloved wife, Vivian Agnes Schell, on October 3, 1954. They were blessed with four children – Thomas, Nancy, Sharon, and Timothy.
Milbert was known as both a gifted musician and a successful businessman. In his younger years, he was employed at Taylor Music in Aberdeen where he was active in sales and music instruction. He enjoyed playing accordion in various bands and ensembles during that time. In 1965, he began his 50-year career in real estate. After less than one year in the real estate business, he ventured out and opened his own real estate agency – Mehlhoff Realty. He impacted thousands of clients by helping them find their perfect home. He was known for his professionalism, hard work ethic, and ability to close any deal. Milbert lived by a life motto that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well. He remained active in real estate into his 90s.
In addition to being successful in his career, Milbert was a husband, father, uncle, brother, and friend. He enjoyed spending summer weekends at the lake home with his family. His affinity for music never wavered. He was passionate about playing the accordion and played until his final days. He was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church as well as various community organizations in Aberdeen.
Throughout his life, he maintained a deep connection to his roots on the farm. He had a great appreciation for farmland and those who worked it. He was deeply committed to the stewardship of the land and the preservation of the rich soil of the Dakotas.
Milbert is survived by his children Thomas (Janet) Mehlhoff of Houston, TX and their children Eric, Grant (Stacy), and Jessie (Michael); Nancy (Craig) Gardner of Littleton, CO and their children Matthew (Cari) and Nathan (Katie); Sharon (James) Dunkel of Fargo, ND and their children Steven (Sarah) and Isaac; and Tim (Becky) Mehlhoff of Grand Forks, ND and their children Kelsey (Bryan) Scholler, Jacob, and Brooke in addition to ten great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Ramona Kellogg, brother Raymond (Karen) Mehlhoff, and multiple nieces/nephews.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Vivian, parents Emmanuel and Magdelina Mehlhoff, brothers Ronald, sister Claudia, two nephews, and countless friends and colleagues.