Herbst, Dennis Martin 78, of McGregor, MN, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 25, 2021 at his home. Dennis was born February 2, 1943, the son of Ervin and Eleanor Herbst. Dennis was united in marriage to Judy Voltin on February 10, 1964. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; daughters, Denise Herbst and Lynn Herbst; 2 grandsons, Alexander Bovitz and Victor Bovitz; siblings, Ervin (Caryll) Herbst Jr., Charles (Joyce) Herbst, Diane (Merl) Kittleson, Mary (Phil) Carlson, Russell (Diana) Herbst, Michael (Sue) Herbst, and Debra (Brian) Norman, brother-in-law, LeRoy Dahler; and many, many nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Dennis is preceded in death by his parents; and sister, JoAnn Dahler. His early years were spent helping on the family farm near Duelm, MN, hunting, and fishing with siblings and friends. His family moved to Mounds View, MN when Dennis was 13 years old. That year, with a jug of water and a bag of sandwiches, and by himself, he drove a farm tractor from Mounds View up old Highway 10 back to the family farm after tilling a large garden at their new home. Dennis worked with his father and brothers in the early 1960's installing water and sewer mains in cities in Minnesota and South Dakota. He then worked for Johnson Brothers Construction as a rubber tired loader operator and then as a foreman. He moved back to the family businesses when the family built and operated the Mermaid Supper Club in Mounds View. Some may remember him as the weekend bouncer. Dennis always remained a heavy equipment operator at heart. He was a long time member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49. Before retiring to his cabin on Big Sandy Lake, he was co-owner, heavy equipment operator and estimator of Herbst & Sons Demolition Inc. and Central Sand-blasting Inc. The demolition company demolished the Elk River Nuclear Power Plant, the first such operation in US history. In his youth, Dennis was known for his wild antics, sense of humor, yet loving and kind nature. Through the years he enjoyed motorcycles, fireworks, hunting, boating (full throttle), snowmobiling (also full throttle), walks in the woods, tinkering in his garage, old Western movies, his iPad, being a life time member of the SnoBaron's Snowmobile Club, reading his periodicals and books on his Kindle. He really loved fishing trips with family and friends to the Winoga Lodge island outpost cabin flying out in a bush plane from the main lodge in Sioux Lookout, Ontario, and especially enjoyed time spent with his family. Dennis also had an enduring love for animals. During his life he adopted numerous rescue dogs. He was preceded in death by his most recent beloved companion, Bingo, who was adopted from his local animal shelter. Dennis was a caring person who took gratitude in helping others he came in contact with. Known for his strength, sense of humor, kindness and compassion he will be dearly missed by many family and friends. To honor Dennis' wishes, no services will be held. Memorial donations can be made to your local animal shelter.

Published on May 2, 2021