Harry M. Munson

Harry M. Munson, Jr., 93, of Red Wing, died Monday, January 29, 2024, at the Mayo Clinic Health System, Red Wing Campus.  He was born on June 14, 1930, in Red Wing to Harry and Harriett (Wilde) Munson.  He grew up in the Welch and Red Wing area and spent his entire life there.  He attended Burnside Elementary School and graduated from Red Wing Central High School in 1948.  After graduating he went to work for L.C. McGrew in Red Wing operating construction equipment and in 1950 bought his own dump truck and became self-employed.  He spent several years doing construction work all over the Midwest area.  In the late 1960’s he formed Munson Crane and Rental Company in Burnside, which he later turned over to his employee, Wayne Ripley and it became Ripley’s Rental and Sales.  In 1974, he and four partners formed Red Wing Developers Inc. and began the development of Clay City Industrial Park, which he also managed.  At that time, he also started Clay City Mini Storage in Clay City.  In the latter years he began collecting and restoring Red Wing Marine engines and showed them at many boat and engine shows all over the Midwest area.  He became know as the Red Wing Motor Guy.  He had collected at least one example of most all the models that Red Wing Motor Company built from the early 1900’s until they closed in the 1970’s.  He also enjoyed his many hunting and fishing trips.

Harry was a member of Cross of Christ Lutheran Church of Welch, Red Wing Elks BPOE #845, Red Wing Lodge #8 A.F.& A.M., Red Wing Commandry #10, Red Wing Chapter #4, Red Wing Wildlife League and many gas engine and antique boat and marine engines clubs in the US.

Harry is survived by his sister, Hope (John Lawrence) Wiech of Hastings; one niece, Sherri Wiech of Hastings and two nephews and Tim and David Wiech both of Iowa.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Per his wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Cross of Christ Lutheran Cemetery.  Memorials are preferred to Cross of Christ Lutheran Church.  Arrangements are by the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel.