Allan R. Bakken

Allan “Al” R. Bakken, age 70, of Cottage Grove, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at home unexpectedly. He was born on August 23, 1954 in Stoughton, Wisconsin the son of Richard and Ruth (Lengel) Bakken. He married Debra Vejvoda on May 19, 1979 in Stoughton.

In 1994 Al and Debra made Cottage Grove their home. He worked in Stoughton until 1978 then went to work at S & S meats in Stoughton until 1992, then opened Batlar Enterprises with his longtime and best friend Tom Bates in Sun Prairie. He worked at TTJ in cottage Grove until retirement in August of 2020.

He loved going ice fishing couldn't wait to get his shack out, sadly he did but didn't get to use it. loved riding his four wheeler around. Debbie and Al loved camping, they would go every August for a week to Tomahawk, take their boat and rent a cabin. Last of all he loved his corvettes he and Debbie would go to a lot of car show.

He is survived by his wife Debbie of 48 years; brother, Tom (Carol) Bakken; brother in-laws, Bob (Julie) Vejvoda, Alan (Patti) Vejvoda; 8 nieces and nephews and 15 great nieces and nephews.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; and his in-laws Bob and Jackie Vejvoda.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday January 22, 2025 at Cress Funeral Home, 206 W. Prospect St., Stoughton, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m..

Please make donations to the American Lung Association or American Heart Association.

“Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God Laid for me. My life’s been full, I’ve savored much, good friends, great times, a loved one’s touch. Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me, God wanted me now. He set me free.