Allan D Jirele

Allan D. Jirele, known as Big Al, passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Twin Town Villa in Breckenridge, MN. Al was born on July 29, 1935, in Austin, MN to Edward and Rita Jirele.

Al attended St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, and was proud to play football for the Johnnies. On November 16, 1957, Al married the love of his life, Mary, in St. Paul, MN. Together they nurtured a family filled with love and cherished memories. Al is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, and children: Sons John, Joe (Jasmine) and Jim (Teri), and daughters Jenifer Jirele (Mike Fratto), and Jane (Scott) Johnson. He was a proud grandfather to 19 grandchildren and adored great-grandfather to 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his in-laws: Tom Grebin, Peter Powell, Susan and Stan Rydell, Jane and George Vasiliou, Peggy and Dan Betlock, Greg Powell, Jim and Pam Powell, and Ted Powell, as well as many dear nieces and nephews.

Al devoted 32 years of his professional life to Minnesota Mutual Life Insurance in St. Paul, MN where his work was marked by diligence and integrity. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a Christmas wreath business, flourishing for an admirable 35 years. He was also an inventor and author of his own book, and enjoyed many spirited games of cribbage. Al was a passionate outdoorsman with a love for both hunting and fishing, and was a longtime member of Duck’s Unlimited and supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project. He was known for his outgoing and fun-loving nature, his love of sports, and his advice and encouragement to many.

In addition to his remarkable career and family life, Al would most like to be remembered for his faith in Jesus. He was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for 20 years, and a longtime member of the Cursillo Movement, and shared his faith with countless individuals over his lifetime. 

Al was preceded in death by his loving parents, Ed and Rita Jirele, brothers Ed Jirele and his wife Shirley, Neil Jirele and his wife Marge, and Orrie Jirele and his wife Marie, sister Cleo Grebin, and sisters-in-law Marian Kliger (Powell) and Eileen Powell.

On September 11, 2024, a Rosary is scheduled to begin at 8:45 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Wahpeton, ND. This will be followed by a visitation period from 9:00-11:00 a.m., then a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery in Wahpeton, ND and all are then welcome for a luncheon at St. John’s.

Allan’s memory will be treasured always, for he lived with purpose, humor and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.