Arlen Dale Strate, age 61 of Roberts, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on February 13, 2017.  Arlen was born December 15, 1955 in St. Paul, MN, the son of Russel Clarence and Marjorie LaVerne (Krueger) Strate.  He graduated from St. Croix Central High School, the Class of 1974.  Arlen was united in marriage on October 8, 1977 at the United Methodist Church in New Richmond to Laurie Marie Hanson.  Their marriage was blessed with two children, Tawnya and Jonathan.  

Arlen devoted his life to farming.  His heart belonged on his farm; milking his cows, planting the crops in the verdant soil, and working the fall harvest of his fields.  Arlen enjoyed getting his hands in the soil and making plentiful the beauty of a flower and vegetable garden.  In his younger years, Arlen was fond of woodworking.  Arlen carried a positive attitude with life, and had a wonderful sense of humor, which brought great joy and laughs to those around him.  Not only was Arlen a hard worker, but he had a tremendous heart for others, always lending a hand to those that needed it.  He adored his children and grandsons and made sure to always provide them with unconditional love and care. 

Arlen will remain in the hearts of his daughter, Tawnya (Bradley) Cran of New Richmond; son, Jonathan (Whitney) Strate of Roberts; four grandsons:  Jamison, Evan, Oliver and Riley; mother, Marge Strate of Roberts; brother, Joe Strate of Roberts; sister, Lynn Strate of Apple Valley, MN; best friend, Karen Garden of Roberts; mother-in-law, Marlene Hanson; brother-in-law, Dan (Karen) Hanson; sister-in-law, Cindy (Mark) Hansen; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Laurie; father, Russel Strate; brother, Danny Strate; and father-in-law, Donald Hanson. 

Visitation will be held 5:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday, February 16th at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson, as well as one hour prior to the service on Friday at church.  Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, February 17th at Cross Lutheran Church, 1246 County TK TT, Roberts, with Rev. Durk Peterson officiating.  Interment will take place at the New Richmond Cemetery.  Pallbearers assisting with the services will be:  Jonathan Strate, Bradley Cran, Joe Strate, Tom Sullwold, David Krueger, and Jacob Pavlo.  Honorary pallbearers will be his grandsons:  Jamison, Evan, Oliver and Riley.  Memorials are preferred to the charity of donors choice.