Kenneth R. Stodolka

Kenneth R. Stodolka, 93 year old resident of Foley, MN formerly of Bowlus, MN passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at The Gardens at Foley in Foley, MN. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Bowlus, MN with Father Greg Paffel officiating. Burial will take place in the St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish Cemetery in Bowlus, MN. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Bowlus, MN. Caring for Kenneth and his family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN. Kenneth was born on January 12, 1933, in Bowlus, Minnesota, to Michael and Pauline Stodolka. He was one of twelve children and was the last surviving sibling of his family. On August 12, 1967, Kenneth married Monica Wentland (Biniek), and together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and making lasting memories. Throughout his life, Ken was a dedicated farmer and school bus driver. He also proudly served his community as a member of the Bowlus City Council, always willing to lend a helping hand and contribute to the town he loved. Ken was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. He loved fishing, bowling, pitching horseshoes, and playing cards. A devoted Minnesota Vikings fan, he also enjoyed watching basketball and could often be found cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events. One of Ken's greatest joys was traveling. He took many memorable vacations throughout the United States and around the world. Yet no trip meant more to him than the annual family vacation at the lake, a tradition he and his family began in 1990 and continue to cherish to this day. These gatherings became a treasured time for laughter, stories, and making memories that will live on for generations. Ken had a playful spirit and was known as the family prankster. He especially enjoyed teasing his younger grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always finding a way to make them laugh with his mischievous sense of humor. His love for his family was evident in every stage of life, and he treasured each of his 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, with one more great-grandchild expected in September. He also enjoyed dancing to old-time music, singing old country and gospel songs, and never turned down a slice of pizza and a cold beer. Following health challenges, Ken spent the last three years in the Memory Care Unit at The Gardens at Foley Nursing Home. There, the staff quickly came to know and love him, nicknaming him "Zippy" because he was always on the move and rarely stayed in one place for long. His family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of The Gardens at Foley Memory Care Unit and to the caregivers of Moments Hospice for the exceptional kindness, care, and dignity they provided. Ken is survived by his children, Bernie Zwilling (Mark) of Champlin, Rose Popp (Russ) of Maple Grove, Kenneth "Kenny" Stodolka Jr. (Karri) of Nisswa, Nancy Danculovich (Scott) of St. Cloud, Ron Stodolka of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Amy Granholm (Brian) of Sturgeon Lake; 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, with one more expected in September; brothers-in-law Richard Biniek (Carol) and Walter Biniek (Julie); sisters-in-law Mary Ann Stodolka and Margaret Tomczik; and many cherished nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Monica; his parents, Michael and Pauline Stodolka; his eleven brothers and sisters; his brothers- and sisters-in-law; and other beloved relatives. Ken will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his generous heart, his playful sense of humor, and his love for his family. His legacy lives on in the traditions he created, the laughter he inspired, and the countless lives he touched.

Tributes

Kenneth R. Stodolka

January 12, 1933 - August 4, 2026