Darvin Rocholl

As the sun set on August 2, 2026, while resting in the comfort of his favorite recliner at the home he loved on the family farmstead, surrounded by his beloved wife, Betty and his children, Darvin David Donald Rocholl peacefully took his final walk home to be with our Lord and Savior, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. He fought with unwavering strength until the very end. Wrapped in the love of his family, he left this world knowing he was deeply cherished and entered into eternal peace.

Darvin was born on August 20, 1942, to Henry and Irene (Kugler) Rocholl. He was the middle child of five siblings, a place in the family that suited him well. From the very beginning he was blessed with the values of faith, family, and hard work that would guide him throughout his life and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. He attended country school and then attended Morris Ag School.

He proudly enlisted in the Army National Guard and served at Fort Ord, California where he was awarded his Sharpshooter certification badge. Upon return and through his continued service, he met and married Betty Umlauf on July 11, 1964, the woman who would share every season of his life. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. Their family grew with the arrival of their three children, Brenda, Kimberley, and Travis. They brought immeasurable joy and purpose to their lives. They purchased the family farm from his uncle Carl Rocholl where they worked side by side for decades, creating not only a home filled with love, faith and cherished memories but also preserved a family legacy. In 2016, the family farm was proudly recognized as a Century Farm, a milestone that was celebrated with friends and family who traveled from miles around to honor the generations of dedication, hard work, and stewardship which made the achievement possible. The farm stands as a testament to their perseverance and dedication and was more than their livelihood, it was the heart of their family. Through the year of continued service in the Army National Guard, the family farm became a training ground for military exercises, with soldiers, tanks, and military equipment crossing the land. It was an experience he enjoyed sharing through stories, adding yet another unique chapter to the life defined by service, hard work, and unwavering commitment.

Building a life on the farm required long days and even longer nights. In addition to farming, Darvin hauled milk for Mid-America Dairymen and later worked overnight as a licensed boiler operator. Whether in the fields, on the road, or at work through the night, he never hesitated to do whatever was needed to provide for his family and preserve the farm he loved.

Anyone who knew Darvin, knew he loved a good joke and never passed up the opportunity to tease someone with a playful prank. His infectious laugh was one of his greatest gifts, so genuine and hearty that it was impossible not to laugh right along with him. He found joy in making others smile, and his laughter will forever echo in hearts of those who knew him. He also enjoyed relaxing with a Windsor/Coke - what he affectionately called a "bump" - often shared in the company of family and friends around the kitchen table enjoying a good laugh. He treasured the moments spent with the people he loved the most.

One of his greatest joys in life was country music and dancing. Whether a favorite song was playing on the radio or a live band was on stage, he could always be found tapping his feet or taking to the dance floor with a smile. His love of music wasn't something he simply enjoyed; it was something he shared.

Believing in the power of music to bring people together, he made sure each of his three children had the opportunity to learn an instrument. That gift became a lasting legacy, as all three went on to perform in bands throughout their lives. Through their music, his passion continues to echo in every performance and every song.

He will be remembered not only for the music he loved and the dances he shared, but for the inspiration, encouragement, and joy he passed on to his family. His rhythm lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the music that continues to bring his family together. Darvin also enjoyed life's simpler pleasures. He looked forward to trips to the casino, watching football, hunting and fishing, and his love of racing both NASCAR and dirt track.

After retirement from Mid-America Dairymen, Darvin returned to the life he loved most - Farming full-time alongside Betty and their son, Travis. Working land together wasn't just a livelihood, it was a way of life. He found great joy in caring for the farm, sharing his knowledge, and continuing the legacy he and Betty had worked so hard to build and grow. A legacy that lives on through his five beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Henry and Irene Rocholl; siblings, Ervin (Camilla) Rocholl, Marlene (Clifton) Wahlgren, Susan Neuleib, and other treasured family members.

Darvin is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty and children, Brenda (Dave) Schmidt, Kimberley (Michael) Hutton, Travis (Jenny) Rocholl all of whom reside on a piece of the family farm. He is also survived by his brother, Gary (Susan) Rocholl; grandchildren, Alisha (Chris) Ball, Mariah (Daiton) Carpenter, Shaynah Smith, Brodey Rocholl, and Kayla Rocholl; step-grandchildren, Chris and Ryan Schmidt, Michael Jr. and Robert (Nadine) Hutton; great-grandchildren, Kara, Jaylen, and Georgia Ball, Aurelia and Cecelia Carpenter; step-great-grandchildren, Briggs and Blake Hutton, and numerous other family and friends.

A special thank you to Aveana, New Dimensions, and Moments Hospice. The kindness, care, and compassion shown by friends and family during this time is deeply appreciated.

Blessed be the memory of Darvin David Donald Rocholl.

Service: 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 14, 2026 at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service.

Clergy: Officiant Lorene Hasbargen

Interment: Tonseth Lutheran Cemetery, rural Erhard, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com