Roger Duwayne Holty

Roger Duwayne Holty, 88, passed away on January 28, 2026, due to complications of leukemia at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, MN.

Born on January 2, 1938, in the small town of Shelly, MN, Roger was the son of Howard and Rose (Opskar) Holty. In 1950, at the age of 12, Roger's family relocated to Albert Lea, where he would build his life. Following his high school graduation, Roger enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Upon returning home, he married Suzanne Jensen at Salem Lutheran Church in Albert Lea on September 5, 1959, marking the beginning of a loving partnership that spanned 66 years. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and support.

Roger had a varied and fruitful working life, holding positions at Universal Milking Machine Company, as well as working for a local farmer, working as a glass glazer for Smitty Glass, managing then owning a Shell gas station, and driving semi for Becker Freight and Ace Lines Co. Roger embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm. In 1965, Sue and Roger lived in rural Albert Lea before moving into the city of Albert Lea in 1977. His passion for work and adventure led him to serve as a volunteer firefighter for the Freeborn County Volunteer Fire Department for several years, and an owner-operator semi truck driver for many years. After selling his truck, he worked for Streater's, driving cross-country and later shuttling in-plant. Even in retirement, Roger found joy in purpose; committing to driving school bus for a decade, forming cherished bonds with the children who appreciated and respected him. As he began to slow down he drove only on special occasions, and after retiring a second time, still found the energy to drive seasonally for his daughter and son-in-law's business.

In his off time, Roger maintained a strong connection to family. He frequently embarked on fishing trips up north and to Pierre, SD with his son, Randy. Horses held a special place in Roger’s heart, a passion passed down from his uncle Merl. He cherished rodeos and delighted in taking on the role of BBQ master during family gatherings. He was always willing to help the next person, and wouldn't hesitate to make anyone feel welcome and appreciated.

Roger's memory is carried on by his loving wife, Suzanne Holty; children Mardell (Ordean) Oyer, Cheryl (Jeff) Erickson, Randall (Lori) Holty, and Patricia (Marc) Loge, as well as Sue's daughter: Becky (Scott) Ferch and their family. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Raechel (the late Mark) Raverty, Stacia (Tyler) Krell, Tabetha (Luke) Andersen, Lacey (Ryan) Kiger, Travis (special friend Baillie Klingfus) Oyer, Vanessa (Charles) Strother, and Trevor Loge. His legacy extended further with twelve great-grandchildren: Kira Young, Emma, Lane & Lila Krell, Marshall Bartelt, Maddux & Mikko Andersen, Adeline, Erinna & Henley Kiger, and Keegan & Kayleigh Strother. Roger will also be remembered by his brothers Harold (Eileen) Holty, Jerry (Linda) Holty, Richard (Maxine) Holty and Glen Holty, alongside many cherished nieces and nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Randall Holty; brother, Harold Holty; parents Howard and Rose (Opskar) Holty; grandparents Knute & Johannah (Mooran) Opskar, Gullick & Jeannette (Hanson) Holty; mother and father-in-law Curtis & Marie (Brewer) Jensen; as well as niece Holly (Holty) Caroon; nephews Jason Baas, Josh Wagner; and grandson-in-law Mark Raverty.

Roger Duwayne Holty leaves a profound legacy of kindness, hard work, and love. To honor his memory, a funeral service will take place at Salem Lutheran Church, 115 N Washington Ave, Albert Lea, MN 56007, beginning at 2 PM on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026. An hour of visitation will proceed services, beginning at 1 PM. Interment will take place following services at Hillcrest Cemetery.

The livestream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services. 

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