Lawrence P. Kimpell, 81, of Austin, Minn., and formerly of Fort Dodge, Iowa, died Dec. 26, 2012, at St. Johns Lutheran Home.

Lawrence grew up in Austin and served in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War. Afterwards, he was united in marriage to Marjorie Klaus of Fort Dodge and was employed with Hormel. He is survived by his sister, Delores Murphey of Austin. He was the father of eight children: Rochelle Martin of Otho, Iowa; Richard Kimpell of Taylor, Ariz.; Lori Corriea of Austin; Jackie Stauffer of Fort Dodge; David Kimpell of Bonita Springs, Fla.; Jim Kimpell of Fort Dodge; Diane Eli of Safford, Ariz.; and Marti Donaire of Castle Rock, Colo.

His 16 grandchildren were the love of his life, along with sports, especially football and the Minnesota Vikings. Lawrence also loved gardening tomatoes and was celebrated as Tomato King in Albert Lea, Minn., for many years.

A service will be held at a later date.