Herbert "Herb" Cornwell

Herbert "Herb" Cornwell
March 1, 1941 – May 3, 2025

Herbert Orville Cornwell, age 84, of Ely, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, in Duluth, Minnesota, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 1, 1941, on his family’s farm in Stanley, Wisconsin, Herb was a proud Midwesterner whose life was rooted in hard work and a love for the land.

Herb grew up in Wisconsin and completed his education through the eighth grade before joining the United States Army, where he served with honor from 1958 to 1961. During his service, he cared for the grounds at Arlington National Cemetery. He later served in Hawaii, stationed near the historic site of Pearl Harbor.

After his military service, Herb returned to Minnesota, married the love of his life, Deb, and founded Cornwell Forest Products. For many years, he built a respected business in trucking and logging. He valued honest labor and had great pride in operating heavy machinery and working outdoors. 

Herb was happiest under open skies. Whether hunting in the woods, casting a line in quiet waters, or simply sitting on his patio with a cold Miller Genuine Draft in hand, he was at peace in nature. He had a gift for storytelling and could turn any moment into a conversation, often beginning with tales from “back when.”

Above all, Herb cherished his family. He was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a playful, devoted Grandpa and Great-Grandpa. His spirit was youthful & his laughter contagious. His family was his greatest joy and legacy.

Herb is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 55 years, Deb Cornwell; daughters Pamela Berens (Paul) and Kristy Johnson (Chad); and daughters from a previous marriage, Rebecca Kitzler and Roxanne Tulla (Bill). He was the grandfather to Fawna Berger (Sam), Deven Tulla, Desiree Brink (Travis), Rachael Thom (Nate), Lucas Eggebraaten (Amanda), Austin Berens (Jolee), Kelsey Johnson, Madelene Larson (Josh), and Savannah Tyndall (Preston). His great-grandchildren include Emma and Ian Berger; Arowynn and Gwendolynn Brink; Kashtin, Kolt, Lucille, and Ayla Thom; Laura Eggebraaten; Shainah, Raelynn, and Hazelmae Berens; and Cooper Larson. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Lucille Scott, brother-in-law, Richard Havercamp (Kay), and siblings, Leland Cornwell (Ruth), Phyllis Mabie, and Lois Hartshorn, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Herb was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Meta Cornwell, and siblings Amelia, Calvin, David, Frieda, Eva, Earl, Gladys, Meta, Vera, and Vernon, as well as many other beloved family members and friends.

Herb lived a life full of purpose and heart, and in his own words, it was “good enough.” And for those who loved him, it was more than enough.

A celebration of Herb’s life will be held June 22, from 2-5 pm at the Winton Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to raise a beer in his honor, share a story, and enjoy the simple pleasures, just as he would have wanted.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Herbert "Herb" Cornwell, please visit our floral store.