Thief River Falls: Remembering Alan Keith Hyland, 82

Thief River Falls: Remembering Alan Keith Hyland, 82

Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Alan Keith Hyland, age 82, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, North Dakota, surrounded by his loving family.

Alan was born in Marysville, California, on September 29, 1943, while his father, Alvin Hyland, was stationed there with the U.S. Army. During Alvin’s overseas service, Alan and his mother, Arlyne (Uglem) Hyland, returned to Goodridge, Minnesota, to live with Alan’s grandparents—a home and community that would always hold a special place in his heart.

He was baptized at Rosendal Lutheran Church and confirmed at Ekelund Lutheran Church in rural Goodridge. A proud graduate of Goodridge High School’s Class of 1961, Alan went on to serve his country in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge in Washington, he began working at Boeing, where he earned a reputation for dependability—never missing a single day of work.

Returning home to Minnesota, Alan attended Northland Community College in Thief River Falls, where he later shared his skills as a carpentry instructor. His dedication to craftsmanship led him to found and operate Ram Construction, leaving a lasting impact on the local building industry and helping shape the community he loved.

Alan was first married to Carol Sorg, with whom he shared two children, Wendy and Keith. While working in Montana, he met the love of his life, Mary Louise Warring. They were married on June 29, 1972, and together built a warm and welcoming home in Thief River Falls, where they shared 53 wonderful years together.

Alan’s life was filled with passions—hunting, fishing, gardening, camping, woodworking, and spending time outdoors. He also loved playing cards and spending winters in Yuma, Arizona, alongside Mary, where they made countless cherished memories. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 117, the Eagle’s Club, and 40/8 in Thief River Falls.

Alan is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; children Wendy (Pete Manning) Hyland, Keith Hyland, and Bret (Debbie) Hyland; grandchildren Peter (Adrienne), Shannon (Cristan), Bryce (Sara), Anthony, Nathaniel (Mary), Stacy (Chris), and Danielle (Vinnie); and great-grandchildren Jasmyne, Selena, Kendal, Taylor, and Yelena. He is also survived by siblings Arlette Defreece, Aldon (Trudy) Hyland, and Arden (Shelly) Hyland; cousin and best friend Lynn Anderson; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Arlyne Hyland; sister Audrey (Gary) Bruggeman; brother-in-law Virgil Defreece; son Justin Brierly; and several other dear relatives and friends.

Alan will be remembered for his craftsmanship, devotion to family, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on through the homes he built, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared with everyone around him.

A Celebration of Life for Alan will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, with Steven Dahlen officiating. Visitation will take place one hour before the service. Burial will follow at Ekelund Lutheran Cemetery in rural Goodridge, Minnesota.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Thief River Falls: Remembering Alan Keith Hyland, 82