Neil W. Rule, age 83, of Cloquet, passed away Saturday, December 5, 2020 at Inter-Faith Care Center in Carlton. He was born July 31, 1937 in Bear River, MN, the son of Charles and Thelma (Hagsten) Rule. Neil went to High School at Cherry High School where he met his wife of 60 years, Carol Lahti Rule. He was a member of the Army National Guard. An apprenticeship led to a 40-year career as a proud meat cutter- “not a butcher” as he would say.

Throughout his life he enjoyed hunting, camping, snowmobiling, 4 wheeling, family time and vacations. After retirement he and Carol enjoyed time at casinos. It was a great social place, always finding new people to tell his many repetitive stories to. He was a diehard Vikings fan, the roof rattled when he would watch a game and give the referees his advice especially when Vikings played the Packers. He also enjoyed the MN twins.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma Saukko and Charlie Rule; and a brother in law, Howard Lahti. He is survived by wife Carol, children Russ (Ann) Rule, Denise (Barry) Sartor, Dennis Rule; grandchildren, Tasheana, Jeremiah, Cole and Olivia; four great-grandchildren, Jolana, Jayden, Benson, and Luca; brothers. Clifford (Vira), Keith (Carla), Vernon (Candy); many cousins, nieces and nephews; a special uncle, Harry (Jean) Hagsten, and a sister-in-law, Jodie Lahti.

Neil spent the last 3 years at Inter-Faith Care Center. The family would like to thank the center for their care of Neil. He was loved and cared for by the amazing staff. There is a special place in the hearts of our family for our newest family member Patti. Chaplin John was a great comfort in the final days.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral home, funeral pending. Due to Covid and the restrictions, the family will postpone a celebration of Neil’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Interfaith Care Center or a charity of your choice.

We would love you to share a story about Neil, you can do so on this site or reach out to one of the family members.