Sanford Carroll "Buck" Broadbent

Age 90, of Linwood Township, loving husband, dad, grandpa and brother passed away suddenly on December 30, 2025.

Preceded in death by parents, Carroll and Lilly Belle Broadbent; sister Betty Mae Webb.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Yvonne Broadbent; his children, Kevin Broadbent (Tufia) and Shelley Broadbent; grandchildren, Jack, Luke, and Beau; sister, Barb (Bill) Ulvin; brother-in-law, Duane (Sue) Gustafson; sister-in-law LuAnn (Curt) Pressler; sister-in-law Diana (Kevin) Dolan; brother-in-law David (Becki) Gustafson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

Buck was born and raised on the family dairy farm where generations of Broadbents lived and worked since the 1870s. The Broadbents were among the early settlers of the area, and Buck proudly carried forward a legacy grounded in faith, service, and community. He will be remembered for his belief in quiet, consistent service and for doing what needed to be done without fanfare. A lifelong farmer, he viewed farming as stewardship of the land and a responsibility to his community.

At just 20 years old, Buck received national recognition through the Future Farmers of America, earning the organization’s highest honor – the prestigious American Farmer Gold Key at the 1956 National Convention, a rare achievement that reflected his dedication, character, and promise as a young leader. He and his wife, Yvonne, started the first Minnesota Farmstead Gouda Cheese business in 1976. Buck was a founding member and on the board of directors of On-Land Environmental Opportunities (OLEO) and was involved in many other organizations over the years. The Broadbent family farm was later recognized as the Broadbent Century Farm (1893–1997).

Buck leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and love for his family and community. A true pillar of the Linwood community, his commitment to service knew no bounds. Buck’s dedication to service extended far beyond the farm.

Buck was a member of the Linwood Township Volunteer Fire Department, serving for 46 years, including as Assistant Fire Chief. His fire service reflected his steady courage, sense of duty, and willingness to answer the call whenever help was needed. He was Chairman of the first Linwood Township Planning Commission. He also served 26 years on the Farm Credit Board, offering leadership and sound judgment in support of fellow farmers and the agricultural community. In addition, Buck served on the First State Bank of Wyoming Board of Directors beginning in 1992, continuing faithfully in that role until his passing.

A man of deep faith, Buck was a devoted member of Wyoming United Methodist Church for more than 60 years. He lived his faith through action, volunteering in many roles including trustee, usher, and helping with the annual fall church supper.

In his later years, Buck found joy in the simple pleasures of life: reading the newspaper, feeding the birds, watching the wildlife around him, and enjoying good conversation enriched with his “Buck-ism” sayings and dry sense of humor that were second to none.

Family was the heart of Buck’s life. To his family, Buck was a steady presence – dependable, supportive, and deeply proud of those he loved. Buck will be remembered for his selflessness, dedication to helping others, and unwavering devotion to his family. A proud “super fan,” he faithfully supported the activities of his children and grandchildren right up to the end. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Visitation 4-7 PM Friday, January 16^th at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Memorial service 11 AM Saturday, January 17^th with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Wyoming United Methodist Church.