Burle Alden Force was born September 19, 1925 in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of Dewey George and Janice Naomi (Eakins) Force. He was baptized in September of 1927 and confirmed in 1940 at the First Methodist Church in Willmar. He grew up in Willmar and graduated from Willmar High School, furthering his education at Hamline University, receiving his BA, and the University of Minnesota, receiving his MA. Burle served his country during World War II, along with his three brothers, each serving a different branch of the military. Burle served in the United States Marine Corps from September of 1943 to March of 1946 stationed in the South Pacific. On June 15, 1946, Burle was united in marriage to Donna Marie Nelson at First Methodist Church in Willmar by Rev. Russell Huffman. This union was blessed with three children and 64 years of marriage. Burle taught junior high boys Physical Education in Motley, Winnebago and Benson, totaling 33 years. He was a member of the Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ, where he was active on church boards and teaching Sunday School. He was a member of the Minnesota Jaycees, serving on local, state and national committees; the American Legion, a member for over 50 years; the State MGA Board of Directors for 12 years; and the Benson Golf Club. Golf was his lifetime love, coaching more than 25 years. In 2004, Burle was selected to the Hamline University Hall of Fame for the 1948 MIAC Golf Championship team. Among other things he enjoyed were hunting, fishing, traveling, and refinishing furniture. Burle was called from this life on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at the Swift County Benson Hospital. He attained the age of 84 years, and 11 months. Burle is survived by his wife Donna of Benson; his children: Cheryl (Dennis) Cleland of Littleton, CO, Patricia (Doug) Bangsund of Benson and Bradley (Lorene) Force of Cokato; five grandchildren: Chad Cleland, Aaron Bangsund, Alison Turner, Shauna Fidler, and Ashley Force; ten great-grandchildren: Sam, Natalie, Sophia, Joey, Katie, Sydney, Reese, Carson, Avery, and Aidan; sisters-in-law, Paula Force of Omaha, NE and Jackie Stanley of Orange, CA; many nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, and his brothers Dewey Jr., Keith and Duane Force.
