Robert Eugene Hyland died, Friday Aug.t 3, 2012, at Comforcare in Austin, Minn.

Robert was born on the family farm in Pleasant Valley Township, Mower County, Minn., on Sept. 17, 1931, to Emma (Lee) and Alfred Hyland. He was confirmed at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Minn.

Robert was one of seven siblings growing up on a farm in Grand Meadow, Minn. He graduated from Austin High School and was a member of the Austin High School wrestling team that won the 1948 State Wrestling Championship, and won the individual State Championship in the 95-pound weight class.

During the Korean War he served in the US Army from March 1952 to March 1954. He spent his entire career with Hormel Foods in numerous departments. In 1956 Robert married Sondra Mason. To this marriage two children were born: Elizabeth and Kristi. Robert and Sondra were later divorced.

Robert enjoyed golfing, fishing and going for walks. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Robert was a member of the American Legion and St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Robert is survived by his daughters: Elizabeth (Dennis) Martinson, Austin, Minn. and Kristi Hyland, Austin, Minn.; granddaughters: Allison Hyland and Nicole Smith; sisters: Shirley (Bill) Silver and Diana (Jim) Ludwig; brothers: Duane Hyland, and Lowell (Norma) Hyland sister-in-law: Patricia Hyland; brother-in-law: Robert Earl; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Darlene Earl and brother Loren Hyland.

The family would like to thank the all the staff at Comforcare, especially those in rehab, Healing Grace Wing, and Garden Wing for all there tenderhearted care and a special thank you to Dr. Kristin Kirsch for her professional and compassionate care.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2012, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Rev. Kristi Koppel officiating. Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery with Austin Post No. 91 American Legion in charge of military honors. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the St. Olaf Lutheran Church or the Austin Humane Society.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.