Blaine, MN - Wilfred (Will) Alden Bakke, age 87, of Blaine, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025. He was born on August 19, 1938, in rural Greenbush, Minnesota, where he grew up with his parents and seven siblings.

Will attended Karlstad High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1956. During those years, he was captain of the basketball team and was fondly remembered by classmates as someone both talented and kind. He was also voted the Valentine King, a reflection of his warm personality and the way people naturally gravitated toward him even at a young age.

Will proudly served in the United States Army and was stationed in Hawaii, a place he cherished throughout his life. After returning home, he graduated from St. Cloud State University with a degree in English.

While working as a manager at Red Owl Grocery, Will met Louise, the love of his life. They married and welcomed their daughter, Sara. Through his marriage to Louise, Will also became a loving stepfather to her children, Kirk and Kella. Will later became a General Manager at Byerly's, where he found joy and purpose in his work. He was known for his kindness, steady leadership, and the way he made employees feel valued and appreciated. His warm, genuine presence created lifelong friendships everywhere he went.

Will had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people. He loved bringing happiness to others, striking up conversations with anyone he met, and offering kindness freely. During his final years at Legends of Blaine, he became the community's beloved paper delivery person and delighted in greeting the neighborhood children each morning as they waited for their school busses.

Will´s faith in God was the foundation of his life. He treated others with compassion, humility, and had a strong desire to serve. He was a devoted and deeply loving grandfather and attended countless musical performances, sporting events, and special moments, always cheering his grandchildren on with pride. He cared for them tenderly when they were young and remained one of their greatest supporters throughout his life.

Will was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise, who passed away 21 years ago.

He is survived by his daughter Sara (son-in-law Josh, grandchildren Hana and Devan), Kella (son-in-law Paul, grandchildren Natalie (Austin) and Ben), and Kirk (daughter-in-law Wanda, grandchildren Nathan (Brianna) and David (Renee)).

Will's life was defined by love: love for his family, for people, and for service. He was known for his optimism and favorite sayings, often encouraging others to "keep looking up" and reminding them that he was "vertical and blessed." His gentle spirit, bright smile, and unwavering generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will take place in January, with details to follow.