Roland Eugene Dobberstein

About Roland

Roland Eugene Dobberstein was born on February 28, 1932, in Whapatonn, ND, to Roy and Rhoda (Cummings) Dobberstein. He grew up in New Effington, SD. After graduation, Roland attended the Aberdeen Teacher’s College. He taught in country schools while obtaining his degree.

Roland served in the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge, he was united in marriage to Caroline Laun on March 9, 1958. Roland later obtained his Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from South Dakota State University. He taught in Clark, SD, and Appleton, MN, before moving to Balaton where he was the Elementary Principal for many years.

Roland had a passion for education and helping children. He never lost his love of the profession and even took a few jobs as Principal at Milroy, Lake Benton and Lynd after his retirement.

Roland also had a passion for his community. He lived his philosophy of service above self. He was active with the Balaton American Legion, Volunteer Fire Department, Volunteer Ambulance Association and served as Mayor. He was the first recipient of Balaton’s Citizen of the Year.

Roland also enjoyed sports and activities. He enjoyed bowling, throwing horse shoes, playing cards and dancing. He was a loving and generous husband, father and gradfather with a great sense of humor.

After dealing with memory decline for several years, Roland died unexpectedly and peacefully on Friday, March 18, 2022, at his residence in Balaton. He is survived by his wife, Caroline, of Balaton, daughter Julie (and Greg) Erickson of Balaton, son Wesley of Balaton, daughter Ronda (and Curt) Martin of Homer, AK; grandchildren Erin Erickson, Lindsay (and Alex) Ourada, Shane (and Lexi) Erickson and Cody Martin; great-grandchildren Mayumi, Elijah, Max, Emersyn, Maverick, Eden, Hattie and Leo, sister Lois Ruediger of Breckenridge, MN, brother-in-law Jerald Laun and many relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Myron and Lee.

memorial service

Funeral Services for Roland

March 23, 2022

Trinity Lutheran Church ELCA 500 Summit Ave, Balaton, MN 56115, USA

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 22, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. at the Horvath Remembrance Center in Balaton. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, one hour prior to the service, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church. Interment will follow the service at Lakeside Cemetery in Balaton.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Horvath Funeral Service