Arlan Matthew Scharberg

“Well, Jeanne girl and William, looks like I didn’t quite make it to 100—but I sure gave it a good run. My first goal was to live to 90, and that one, I nailed. If you’re reading this, it means my time here is done—but don’t worry, I made sure to plant plenty of good memories along the way.

Life, much like farming, is about patience, hard work, and knowing when to let things grow. I was lucky enough to spend my days with my hands in the dirt, my heart in the water, and my family by my side. Whether I was tending the land or casting a line, I always believed the best things in life take time and care. If you knew me, you know I wasn’t one for fuss, so I’ll keep this simple: I was blessed with a wonderful family, great friends, and a life well-lived. What more could a man ask for?”

Arlan was born November 2, 1934, to Carl and Ruth Scharberg in Sargeant Minnesota, passed on February 16, 2025. Dad often shared stories from his younger years, painting pictures of simpler times filled with hard work and joy. His happiest days were spent helping his dad on the farm, where he learned that the richest rewards come from care and dedication. Weekends meant fishing trips with his dad—quiet moments on the water, broken only by laughter and the tug of a line. Sometimes, his mom and sister Karen would join, turning the outing into a family picnic with sandwiches, sunshine, and a little sibling mischief.

Arlan grew up in the Hayfield area knowing that family wasn’t just important—it was everything. Holidays, weekends, and even those unplanned, knock-on-the-door visits were spent with aunts, uncles, and cousins. With so many relatives nearby, family gatherings weren’t just occasions—they were a way of life. Laughter, stories, and a strong sense of togetherness filled those days, leaving Arlan with a lifelong belief: the best things in life are grown with love and shared with those we hold dear.

After high school, Arlan proudly served his country in the Army, spending his military tour of duty stationed in Korea. Upon returning home, he met his first wife, Doris Marie Nash. The two married in 1958 and briefly made their home in Poughkeepsie, New York, before settling into a new house in Byron. In 1966, they settled on a small acreage near his parents in Hayfield, where Arlan fully embraced the joys of family life and country living. He became a member of the Hayfield American Legion, where he served for over 50 years. During his time there, he held several positions, including Commander, Vice Commander, Chaplain, as well as various offices at the district level. Through his years of service, he built lasting friendships with fellow veterans and took great pride in honoring their sacrifices and contributions to the community.

Arlan worked for IBM for 37 years. He retired in 1994. Even after retiring from his first career, Arlan continued to share his talents, working at Celestica, where he enjoyed new challenges and friendships in the evolving technology field. After moving to the country Arlan was able to help his dad with farming in the evenings and weekends. This was work he really enjoyed.

Arlan was a devoted husband to Doris for 21 years. Though their marriage ended in 1979, they shared the priceless bond of raising their children together. In 1987, Arlan found love again and married Sharon Olsen, with whom he shared many happy years. He was a proud and loving father to Jean Voxland (Andrew Voxland) and William Carl Scharberg.

He was a proud grandfather to Terra Haugen (Aaron Haugen), Laura Walter (Joe Walter), and Hanna Voxland, who all brought him endless joy. Great-grandchildren bring such joy to life, and Arlan was truly blessed with five fantastic ones: Audrey Haugen, Stella Haugen, Gretta Haugen, Jack Walter, and Maggie Walter. He is also survived by his dear sibling, Karen Vincent (Joe Vincent), and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who became family. He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Ruth Scharberg and his sister who passed in infancy Arline Scharberg. He was also preceded in death by both wives, and his father-in-law Sig Olsen, mother-in-law Mavis Olsen who he was devoted to. Also preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law’s, Everett Nash and Alma Nash, 2 brother-in-laws: Bruce Skow (husband to Karen Skow Vincent) and Steve Olsen (brother to Sharon Scharberg). His unwavering love, wisdom, positivity, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, especially in the lessons he imparted and the memories he created with those closest to him.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 104 1st St SE in Hayfield, MN with Pastor Kristen Anderson officiating. A visitation will be from 5:00-7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd St NW in Hayfield, MN, and one hour prior to his service at the church.

To share a special memory or condolence please, visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd Street NW, Hayfield, Minnesota, 507-477-2259. Blessed be his memory.