Joseph Reller, age 66 of Mahnomen, Minnesota, died Sunday, November 15, 2009 at his home, surrounded by loved ones, under care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Joseph Leo Reller was born on November 14, 1943 to Henry and Sophie (Kemper) Reller at St. Anthony's Hospital in Mahnomen. He attended the White Earth Mission School through the 8th grade and then worked for area farmers to help support his family. For many years, Joe lived with his cousin, Herbert Krantz, which was the start of a life-long friendship. Joe was drafted into the United States Army in April of 1965 and after an honorable discharge in 1967, he returned home and worked at the Barrel Factory in Mahnomen. On April 24, 1971 Joe was united in marriage to Nancy Bruggeman at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen. Soon after, he started working for Thorson Construction, Bemidji, Minnesota, where he worked until his retirement in 2003. Joe and Nancy had three children and have been blessed with one grandson, who was Grandpa Rainbow's pride and joy.

Joe enjoyed dancing and listening to old-time music, reading westerns, deer hunting, making sausage, cooking for others and loved spending time with little kids. He was an active member of his church and the Isaacson-Bjorge Post #31 of the American Legion. Joe always had time to spend a moment with his special dog, Herby.

Joe is survived by his wife, Nancy; a son, Tony (Dani Berg) Reller of Waubun, MN; two daughters, Pam (Jason) Velcheck and their son, Carson, of Eden Prairie, MN and Paula (Wes Horn) Reller of Fargo, ND; brother, Tom Reller of Winger, MN; sister, RoseMary Simon of Waubun.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Charles and Lawrence; and a sister, Susan Simon.

Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, November 20, 2009 at 2 pm at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Mahnomen with Father Mario Prada officiating. The music will be provided by the Cathy Erickson Band. Pallbearers will be Dan Jirik, Matt Kemper, Andy Kemper, Nick Kemper, Neil Toso and Arnie Stall. Honorary pallbearers will be Joe's God children and the Isaacson-Bjorge Post #31 of the American Legion. Military honors will be provided by Isaacson-Bjorge Post #31 of the American Legion. Visitation will be Thursday, November 19, 2009 from 5-7 pm with a 6 pm prayer service and rosary at Anderson~Mattson Funeral Home, Mahnomen. There will also be visitation one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Interment will be at St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery, Mahnomen.