Jeffrey DeSmet
Jeffrey Howard DeSmet died on November 24, 2020 at the age of 62. Jeff was a son of William and Margaret (DeSutter) DeSmet, born on June 7, 1958; the youngest of 11 children. Jeff graduated from Minneota High School in 1977 and then attended Pipestone Vo-Tech. Jeff worked retail and even did some modeling.
Jeff lived in Marshall, Minnesota for many years, working as a dedicated employee of the Schwan’s Food Company for over 30 years and the Marshall Independent Newspaper.
He traveled to Belgium and loved learning about his heritage and the Native American culture.
Jeff was united in marriage to Jack Burk and the couple lived in Lake Benton, Minnesota. Jeff enjoyed working in the antique business.
After Jack passed, Jeff found enjoyment collecting items and completing his dream home.
Jeff was a very happy, energetic, and fun-loving guy. He enjoyed eating out, finding treasures, and visiting with people.
Jeff had many friends and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Jeff was dearly loved and he will be missed by many.
Jeff is survived by four brothers, Larry (Pam) of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Ben (Anne) of Blaine, Minnesota, Ron (Brenda) of Silver Springs, Nevada, and Jerry (Mary) of Lake Hendricks, South Dakota; three sisters, Susie Paul of St. Peter, Minnesota, Margie (Butch) Dahl of Marshall, Minnesota and Joan (Vincent) Hennen of Alexandria, Minnesota. He has three beloved Godchildren, Sara Larson of Balaton, Minnesota, Kayla Vichich of Alexandria and Aaron DeSmet of Long Beach, California; twenty-seven nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.
Jeff is preceded in death by his husband Jack Burk; his parents, William and Margaret DeSmet; three sisters, Juliana DeSmet, Deanna Archer, and Pauline “Sara” Winters; brother in-law Mike Paul; and two nieces, Licole Opdahl and Shannon DeSmet.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Hartquist Funeral Home – Lake Benton Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. To sign an online registry please visit www.hartquistfuneral.com.
Blessed be his memory.