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Conrad "Walt"
Wozniak
Dec 12, 1935 — Apr 22, 2025
Rosemount
Conrad Walter (Walt) Wozniak passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, with
his wife, Debbie, at his side. Walt was born on December 12, 1935, in Buffalo,
New York, where he and his brother Robert were lovingly raised by their Aunt
Fran after the early passing of their parents, Walter and Helen.
Walt served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957, stationed in Sault
Sainte Marie, Michigan, where he worked in the weather service. After
completing his service, he moved to Chicago, Illinois, and began his civilian
career with a trading company. Two years later, he accepted a position with a
fledgling startup called Knight Seed Company in Minneapolis, Minnesota — a
move that proved to be life-changing. It was there that he met the love of his life,
Debbie.
Their connection was immediate, and Debbie's beloved Aunt Ethel famously
remarked, "Hang onto this one, dear, he's a keeper!" They married soon after,
building a life rooted in unwavering love, mutual respect, and shared adventure.
Together, they raised a family, and Walt embraced his role as husband, father,
and eventually proud grandfather with quiet strength and unshakable dedication.
Walt and Debbie moved to Apple Valley, Minnesota, where they began their
family and became part of a growing suburban community. Walt was the proud
and devoted father of three sons: Jeff, Steve, and Patrick. He took great pride in
his boys and their accomplishments, was always a staunch ally, and gently
encouraged them to pursue their dreams – both in career and in life.
Walt was known for his warmth, quick wit, and remarkable gift for conversation.
A lifelong lover of music, especially traditional jazz, he had an enviable record
collection. Walt was also a snappy dresser with a deep passion for art and
design, and he and Debbie always enjoyed spending time together collaborating
on home projects. But more than anything, he loved his family with all his heart,
and was happiest when surrounded by those he cherished.
One of Walt's greatest joys was the Christmas season. He took meticulous care
in decorating, inside and out, transforming the family home into a warm and
welcoming winter wonderland that reflected his love for the holidays. His
attention to detail and festive spirit always made Christmas a magical time for
family and friends.
Walt's career flourished as he helped grow Knight Seed Company from a
modest one-person office into a thriving, highly regarded commodity trading
firm. Together with his business partner, Dave Dornacker, Walt built a team of
talented traders and support staff, expanding the company's reach across the
United States and internationally. His vision, leadership, and commitment to
fostering strong relationships earned him widespread admiration within the
agricultural industry.
After retiring in 2000, Walt and Debbie built a second home in Bradenton,
Florida, where they created countless cherished memories with visiting family
and friends. The warmth of their hospitality and the joy of their gatherings made
their Florida home a beloved destination. In 2016, they returned to Minnesota to
be closer to their growing family, settling in an idyllic lakeside community in
Rosemount.
Walt is survived by his wife of 55 years, Debbie; sons Jeff, Steve (Katie), and
Patrick; and granddaughter Lucy. He was preceded in death by his brother,
Robert.
Walt's legacy is one of love, laughter, devotion, and a foundational belief in the
importance of family traditions. He will be profoundly missed, but his memory
will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the wonderful
caregivers at Ebenezer Ridges Arbor Lane for the love and kindness they
showed Walt.
A Celebration of Life for Conrad Walter "Walt" Wozniak will be held on Saturday,
May 24, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Porter Creek Hardwood Grill,
located at 14201 Burngarten Drive, Burnsville, MN. Family and friends are
warmly invited to join in remembering and celebrating Walt's life, with a special program scheduled for 1:00 PM.
Memorials are preferred to:
Ebenezer Ridges Arbor Lane
13810 Community Dr.
Burnsville, MN 55337
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