Muril E Pederson

Longtime Wayzata teacher and coach Muril E. Pederson, age 83, of Wayzata, MN passed away peacefully on October 27, 2020, surrounded by family. Preceded in death by parents, Clarence and Florence (nee Nugent), brothers Theodore and Claire, sisters Vivian and Lois, and infant daughter Jennifer. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 59 years, Betty, and a loving parent and grandparent who always put his family first. He will be remembered for his patience, gentle nature, kindness and generosity to all. 

Muril was born December 14, 1936, in Orr, ND, and grew up in neighboring Inkster. He served briefly in the Army National Guard and later in the Army Reserves. He attended Mayville State University and spent his early years teaching and coaching in St. Thomas, ND, Hallock, MN and Mountain Lake, MN. He and Betty moved to Plymouth in 1969 where Muril taught business education and coached boys’ basketball and girls’ softball at Wayzata High School for 26 years. He made time for all his students and athletes and took great pride in helping them develop to their fullest. He was genuine, supportive and caring, and always strived to do his best.

Muril loved spending summers with his family working at Many Point Boy Scout Camp where he was a mentor to many, a friend to all, and a trusted colleague. He retired from teaching in 1995 and he and Betty enjoyed traveling to Florida, Arizona, California and Europe. Muril had many interests, but his true passion was spending time with his family and friends, especially enjoying games, biking and playing ball with his seven grandchildren. He loved music and sports, home projects, enjoyed volunteering in his community and was a proud member of Peace Lutheran Church of Plymouth for many years. He had the gift of being able to talk with anyone, and his children and grandchildren always had a friend and a mentor.  

Survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Betty; sons, Michael (Maureen) and Tim (Kim); daughter, Kelley Reed (Kevin); grandchildren: Conall Pederson; Kailyn, Kacey and Keaton Reed; Nick, Sam and Katie Pederson; and brothers, Orville and Curt Pederson. 

A private memorial service was held for the family. A public memorial will be held at a later date in 2021. Please sign the online guest book to share any memories through the Star Tribune website or David Lee Funeral Home. Memorials preferred to: Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners (https://www.iocp.org), Mayville State University Foundation (https://www.mayvillestate.edu/alumni-friends/msu-foundation), Wayzata Education Fund (https://wayzataedfund.org) or charity of your choice.

Rest in Peace Cha-Cha, you are loved and will be missed. Well done, good and faithful servant.

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