Harlan K. Saalsaa

DEFOREST - Harlan K. Saalsaa, age 51, of DeForest, WI, formerly of Argyle, WI, passed away at Agrace Hospice on October 22, 2026.

Born at Monroe Hospital on May 9, 1975, to Roger and Gayle (Schild) Saalsaa, Harlan attended Argyle schools before graduating from Montello High School. He worked at Avon (Milk-Rite USA) and Stoughton Trailers until his health began to decline, and later worked at Woodman’s Grocery Store for several years followed by Pick 'n Save.

An avid cook who was especially known for his chili, Harlan also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and taking car rides.

Harlan is survived by his partner, best friend and caregiver of 14 years, Lonnie Strait; his mother, Gayle Saalsaa; siblings, Raynold (Valerie), Curt (Jill) and Julie (Curt); brother-in-law, Greg; nieces and nephews, Amanda (Kyle), Taylor (Callie), Carson (Shawnna), Rachel (Mitch), Hannah (Woodrow), Kelsee (Trevor), Jadyn and Zander; great-nieces and great-nephews, Avery, Max, Raelyn, Nora and Thea; and special daughter, Raniyah, entrusted into Lonnie’s care.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roger; sister, Renee; brother, Tom; grandparents; uncle and aunt, Dean and Carolyn; and cousin, Aaron.

A Celebration of Life will be held at CORNERSTONE LUTHERAN CHURCH OF ARGYLE, 1540 Old Highway 81, Argyle, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2026, with a short service at 1:30 p.m.

Special thanks go to Lonnie, Waunakee Manor, UW Health Cardiovascular Staff and Agrace Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420