Darrel Vernon Cronquist, age 70, of Brainerd, passed away July 4, 2026.

Born on December 8, 1955, in Brainerd to Vernon and Marie (Stauffenecker) Cronquist, Darrel grew up in Hillman, Minnesota and settled back in Brainerd.

After graduating from Onamia High School, he spent 35 years with Coca-Cola before finishing his career with another 12 years at the Little Falls School District. Darrel was a certified boiler operator.

Darrel loved the outdoors. He has a vast collection of auction sale treasures. But above all else, his favorite place to be was behind the wheel of his side-by-side with his dog Chumley riding shotgun, and visiting with neighbors.

When he wasn't tinkering in the garage or out on an adventure, Darrel enjoyed watching old Westerns, spending time with family and friends, and sharing stories over a beer or two. He wasn't one for fancy things. His greatest treasures were the people around him, and nothing brought him more pride than being a husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.

Darrel is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sheryl; his children and their families, Chad (Christy), Logan and Ellie; Craig (Angela), Jessica (Taylor) Landon and Carson, Joshua (Kiley) Paisleigh, Abbagale (Mason), Maddie (Joe), Braedyn; Cory (Michaelle), Hailey and Carley (Sawyer); his sister, Sandy (David) Novak; brother-in-law, Randy Pulak; siblings-in-law, Sandra (James) Brisk, Susan (Stan) Kobiela, Brenda (David) Eschenbacher, and Daryl (Gina) Thesing; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Marie Cronquist; his sister, LeeAnn Pulak; and his in-laws, James and Bernadine Thesing.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Darrel's life at a reception at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Harding. Come ready to share stories and laughter. There will be a graveside service at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 10, 2026, with reception immediately following.

If you happen to see a side-by-side heading down a back road with a happy dog riding along, don't be surprised if it brings a smile.