Sanford Robert Lien

Funeral services for Sanford R. Lien age 87 of Albert Lea will be held on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church.  Pastor Joel Vano will officiate.  Private burial will be at a later date.  Military Honors will be accorded by the Freeborn County Servicemen’s Organization.  Friends may greet the family one hour prior to the services at the church.  To sign the guest book  go to:  www.bayviewfuneral.com

Sanford died on Friday, March 25, 2011 surrounded by his family at the Albert Lea Medical Center.

Sanford Robert Lien was born on May 13, 1923 in Montrose, MN. , the son of Sebert and Elizabeth (Mielke) Lien.  At an early age the family moved to Freeborn County where he attended Maple Island grade school.  Sanford served his country in the US Army from Jan. 1943 until his discharge in Nov. 1945.  He was involved in the Invasion of France, the liberation of Paris and the Battle of the Bulge.  After his discharge he returned to Freeborn County.  On Oct. 26, 1946 Sanford was united in marriage to Neva Hovland at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Sanford worked as a carpenter for Diekema Construction all of his working years.  He enjoyed woodworking, reading, sports of all kinds and traveling.  Sanford was honored to have been able to attend the Honor Flight last May.  Spending time with his family and friends were very important to him.  He was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church and the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Neva Lien, daughters  Diane (Lanny) Butler of Charlottesville, VA and Debra (Arlin) Thompson of Sisseton, SD; grandchildren Elisabeth Butler of Roanoke, VA and Andrew Butler of Washington DC; and several nieces and nephews.

Sanford was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Eleanor Fuller and Charlotte Brouwers, and brothers Herman, Verdon, Oliver, Lawrence, and Marvin.

Memorials preferred to the Zion Lutheran Church Organ Fund or the donor's choice.