Jeffrey R. Sorlien

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Ray Sorlien, who left us on January 16, 2026, at the age of 73. Jeff was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit.

Jeff was born on November 24, 1952, in Cooperstown, North Dakota, the youngest of three children born to Deloris Kathleen (Nelson) Sorlien and Nordeen Goodwin Sorlien. He grew up on a farm near Finley, North Dakota. Following his parents’ divorce, Jeff moved to Vancouver, Washington, and later to Culpeper, Virginia, where he graduated from high school and attended vocational-technical school.

After graduation, Jeff returned to Finley, where he worked for the City of Finley before later moving to Detroit Lakes and then Frazee, Minnesota.

Jeff enlisted in the National Guard, serving for seven years. He worked as a carpenter at Dynamic Homes, eventually becoming plant foreman. He later drove his own semi-truck before founding Jeff Sorlien Construction in 1990. His business specialized in building turkey barns, pole buildings, shops, and homes. Jeff took great pride in his work and was fortunate to work alongside his son, Mark. He continued working until his retirement in 2021 due to illness.

Jeff was an active member of the Wolf Lake Snowmobile Club beginning in 2000 and served as president for nine years. He was proud to be part of the team that maintained the snowmobile trails, brushing and grooming them every winter, and he drove the groomer during the first year the club purchased it.

Jeff had a passion for old tractors, just like his dad, and loved buying and fixing them. He also enjoyed many outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, side-by-side rides, and camping. Jeff spent many cherished hours in the hunting stand with his grandchildren, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Jeff and his wife Bonnie spent many weekends camping and enjoyed traveling together to Texas and Arizona. They especially loved riding side by side with friends throughout the countryside.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife Bonnie, with whom he shared nearly 40 years of marriage and would have celebrated their 40th anniversary on February 15, 2026; his children Michelle Makela (Kevin) of Chisholm, MN, Mark Sorlien (Tammy) of Frazee, MN, Marty Sorlien (Kristin) of Audubon, MN, and Melissa Mickelson (Alex) of Frazee, MN; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, with one more expected in June; his sister Diane Rutherford of Vancouver, WA; along with many aunts, uncles, extended family members, and friends.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents Nordeen (Judy) Sorlien and Deloris (Jerry) Bjerke; his brother Terry Sorlien; his nephew Brian Lewis; and his great-nephew Christopher Lewis.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 4, 2026. Burial will take place at Spruce Grove Cemetery, followed by lunch and fellowship at the Frazee Event Center.