Alton Arthur Cordes, 72, of Byron, Minnesota died just before midnight on Saturday, December 9, 2023. After a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , he died at home with his family present.

While he struggled with COPD, Alton had an opportunity to reflect on and write the following words:

"I was born to Vernoid and Lorraine Cordes (Ihrke) in Rochester on Tuesday, November 13, 1951. I attended Byron School and continued my education at the University of Minnesota starting in 1969. My mother sent me to the university with a little cookbook she had hand-written and compiled for me. This cookbook instilled within me a love and enjoyment of cooking and baking.

"I married Debra Moen, the love of my life, in 1973 and we operated the 'Third Generation Cordes Dairy Farm' until 1997. I finished my work career as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service.

"I served 18 years as a director for Rochester Farmers Mutual Insurance (presently Southeast Mutual Insurance). I served 12 years as a supervisor for the Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District. I received my Master Gardener Certification in 2011. I thoroughly enjoyed designing and planting the landscape around our newly remodeled farmhouse. I also enjoyed watching my children and grandchildren and their involvement in their many activities. Throughout life, I enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, playing cards, and socializing with friends and family."

Alton is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debra; daughter Tina Cordes (Sondra Howard) of Winona, MN; sons Lance (Jill) Cordes of Byron, Adam (Michelle) Cordes of Plymouth, MN, Luke (Alyssa) Cordes of Byron; grandchildren Alyssa Cordes, Josilyn Cordes, Brynna Cordes, Jackson Cordes, Kylie Cordes, and Keaton Cordes; and siblings Ronald Cordes of Bloomington, MN, Wayne (Judy) Cordes of Papillion, NE, Merlin (Carol) Cordes of Homer, AK, and Lynette (Mark) Johnson of Winona, MN.

He is predeceased by his parents Vernoid and Lorraine Cordes.

A Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Bearwood Event Barn, Byron, Minnesota, with a fellowship luncheon to follow. A private family burial will take place later.