Leslie “Bud” Wohlert died on November 1, 2026, at Perham Health in Perham.

He was born on March 20, 1934, to Alfred and Laura (Hammer) Wohlert on the family farm in Otto Township, rural New York Mills. He attended school through the eighth grade at District #179 north of New York Mills.

Les worked in Minneapolis at Swift & Co. before returning home. He later worked as a mechanic at Vaughn Chevrolet and then spent 26 years at Lund Boats in the prototype department. He retired in 1996 after many years of steady and skilled work.

Throughout his life, Les devoted himself to practical craftsmanship and the outdoors. He enjoyed woodworking and built a wooden speed boat among other projects. He also designed a 12-foot fishing boat that could fit in the back of his truck, reflecting both his creativity and mechanical ability. His interests included boating, water skiing, fishing, hunting, riding and racing snowmobiles.

Les’s life was closely tied to the place where he was born and to the work and pursuits he valued most. Whether in the shop, on the water, or outdoors, he was engaged in the kinds of activities that shaped his days and reflected his experience and skill. He also studied his Bible, his faith being an important part of his life.

Les is preceded in death by his parents; sister Marlene Hass; sister-in-law Jean Wohlert; and niece Kristine (Hass) Borene.

Les will be remembered by his siblings: Harold “Otto” Wohlert, Carol (Jim) Christopherson; brother-in-law Duane Hass; nephews and nieces: Paul, David (Terri), and Deb Wohlert, Derek (Keely) Hass, Jay (Lynette) and Mike (Daisy) Christopherson; and a host of friends. 

He will be remembered for a lifetime of work, ingenuity, and dedication to the interests that meant the most to him.

Arrangements provided for by Karvonen and Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services of New York Mills.