Claire N. Ohnstad, 77, of Owatonna, died Thursday, February 26, 2009 at his home after a year long battle with cancer. He was born June 10, 1931 in Owatonna, the son of Nicolai and Mathilda (Olson) Ohnstad in Deerfield Township, Owatonna. There he was raised and attended school graduating from District 92 School. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Dusek on July 31, 1951 at Trinity Lutheran Church. They farmed in Deerfield Township. From 1952 until 1969, Claire hauled 'can' milk for several area dairies and operated the Deerfield road patrol for 26 years. Claire was always willing to give a helpful hand to his neighbors. Food and hospitality could always be found at Claire and Dorothy''s home. Claire marched with the Waseca VFW Post for 42 years. He was Past President of the Waseca Eagles and a 47-year member of the Owatonna Eagles. He also was a dual member of the Blue Earth Eagles. Claire was also a member of the Owatonna Elks and the Minnesota Farmer''s Union. He loved old time music and had a passion for Oliver tractors. He had a knack for fixing machinery and enjoyed farm machinery auctions. When his children were younger, he managed the 4-H softball teams. He is survived by his wife Dorothy of Owatonna, sons, Robert (and Chris) Ohnstad, of Owatonna, Daryl Ohnstad of Owatonna, Thomas (and Kerry) Ohnstad of Owatonna, Glenn (and Stacy) Ohnstad, of Owatonna, Craig (and Jody) Ohnstad of Faribault, and daughter Melanie (and Paul) Hoiland of Rockford. Claire is also survived by fourteen grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and two sisters, Merdis Dahle of Mankato, and Deanna (and Robert) Koch of Downey, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Claire Jr., daughter in law Beth Ohnstad, and five brothers, Neil, Glen, Louie, Mike, and Homer. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Sunday, March 1, 2009 from 4-8 PM and at Trinity Lutheran Church on Monday, March 2, 2009 from 12-1 PM. Funeral service will be 1 PM Monday, March 2, 2009 at Trinity Lutheran Church with The Reverend John Lestock officiating. Interment will be at St. John Cemetery in Owatonna. Visitation: 03/01/2009 16:00 03/01/2009 20:00 Service: and one hour prior to the service at the church. 03/02/2009 13:00