Alan A. Salmela

Alan Anthony Salmela, 78, of Osceola, WI passed away peacefully at home on October 18, 2026, following a brief and sudden battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Alan was a devoted family man who took pride in his work, enjoyed pursuing his many interests, and treasured the time he spent with those he loved.

Alan proudly served in the United States Army as a Military Police Sergeant from 1970 to 1972. Following his military service, he built a career as a fearless businessman, working across multiple companies throughout his life. He brought that same passion and dedication to the things he loved outside of work, including football, music, and spending time with family.

A die-hard Minnesota Vikings fan, Alan devoted 42 years to serving as an AFFL commissioner, combining his love of football with a longstanding commitment to the league and its community.

Music was another lifelong passion. Alan sang in multiple choirs and was a member of the Indianhead Barbershop Chorus for many years, continuing to share his love of singing for as long as he was able.

Above all, Alan treasured the time he was able to spend with his family and friends, making memories together that they will carry with them for years to come.

Alan is survived by his wife, Kimberly (Ecklund) Salmela; his son, Matt (Rebecca) Salmela; his daughter, Erin Salmela; and his stepchildren, Jesse (Camille) Lappe and Jen (Mitch) Mackey. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Ellie, Autumn, and Colton Mansavage; Breanna and Tyler Lappe; and Haylee Mackey.

Alan is also survived by his siblings, Mark Salmela; Vince (Nancy) Salmela; Kelly Adams; Doug Salmela and his partner, Susan; Pam (Mark) Phillippi; and Donald (Lisa) Salmela II. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Kent (Yvonne) Ecklund, many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends and former colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Mary Salmela and Ruth Salmela; his infant brother, Donald Salmela Jr., who passed away at 10 months old; and his brothers-in-law, Clifford Adams and John Muldoon.

Alan’s life was filled with family, faith, music, football, and years of service and involvement in the communities he was part of. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the music programs of the School District of Osceola, WI in Alan’s memory. Contributions will support music education and opportunities for local students, honoring Alan’s lifelong love of musical arts.

Memorial contributions may be sent to:

School District of Osceola

ATTN: Music Programs.

331 Middle School Drive

Osceola, WI 54020

Or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 23, 2026 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025. The family will greet friends beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home.