Charles Edward Kotten was called to eternal life peacefully in his sleep the morning of October 17, 2025. Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

He was born on January 8, 1956 in Sleepy Eye, MN. Charles is the son of Ivan and Florence (Schweiss) Kotten and the fifth born of their six children. Charles was united in marriage to Rachelle Marie Kotten (Treml) on June 12, 1980. They were blessed in their forty-five years of marriage with five children, Angela, John, Nicholas, Glen (Esther), and Tim as well as grandchildren Amber, Hope, Cheyenne, and David. Charles is predeceased by his parents, brother Steven, father-in-law Jerome, and brothers-in-law Ben and Gerald.

Charles knew his calling was to be a farmer since his childhood. In his youth it was normal for him to milk cows before school and do farm chores upon arriving home. In his twenties Charles purchased the family farm from his father which had been his grandfather’s farm. Charles got his sons involved in farming at a young age. Charles was exceptionally industrious, generous and sacrificial. He took his talents in earnest improving and expanding his farm operation, building homes and sheds, fixing and engineering machinery, researching with University of Minnesota professors to improve the habitat and environment, consulting other farmers and providing a high quality of life for his family. Charles was forward thinking in his farm operations by planting crops earlier than traditionally, practicing no-till, cover crops, and conservation reserve programs. Charles and his wife Rachelle had exceeding joy sharing their home with others, hosting holidays, birthday parties, and grill outs and bon-fires. Charles especially enjoyed family and friends using his machine shop and improving their engineering and mechanical skills. Charles liked coffee and discussions and was a lifelong learner regularly attending farm shows with his wife throughout the country.

Family had a private celebration of life October 25, 2025 at the family farm.

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