David Newell Bestland

David Newell Bestland, age 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the Barrett Care Center in Barrett, MN.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 26, 2024 at Lind Family Funeral Home in Alexandria with military honors accorded by the Minnesota Honor Guard. Interment followed at East Yellow Medicine Lutheran Cemetery in Hanley Falls, MN.

A visitation took place one hour prior to the service at the funeral home from 10 – 11 a.m. 

David was born on January 2, 1934, near Granite Falls, MN, to Knute and Alma (Conner) Bestland, one of five siblings. He attended school near Hanley Falls and across western MN, ultimately completing his education in Detroit Lakes, MN. Following school, David enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served as an aircraft mechanic. One highlight of his service was working on the B-36 aircraft, which featured 10 engines—six propellers and four jets. After his honorable discharge, David married Darlene Agnes Holler on June 4, 1956. Together, they had eight children, including one set of twins: Anita, Annette, David Jr., Angela, Deana, Joanne, Jeffrey, and Susan. At the age of 40, David embraced the gospel and remained faithful until his passing. He enjoyed attending auctions and garage sales, and was an avid collector of antiques. In his younger years, he restored vintage cars to pristine condition. David was also a skilled carpenter, crafting beautiful wooden pieces using traditional techniques such as wooden pegs.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings; sons, David Jr. and Jeffrey; daughter, Anita; and grandchildren, Jeremy Bestland, Anna-Leigh Viebrock, and Curt Gabrielson.

David is survived by his daughters, Annette, Angela, Deanna, Joanne and Susan; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many relatives and a host of friends.

Serving as casket bearers will be Mike Anderson, Aaron Navratil, Doug Navratil, Randy Richards, Ryan Viebrock, and Evan Quick.

 The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Barrett Care Center and Knute Nelson Hospice for their care and comfort for David.