Kent Vnuk

Kent Michael Vnuk

Kent Michael Vnuk passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 22nd, 2021 while playing with his best bud Yeager at his sister’s cabin.

Kent was born in St. Paul, MN on December 15, 1968.  He was a dare-devil as a youth who loved all things outdoors (climbing trees, swimming/skiing at Balsam Lake, playing kick the can) and wasn’t afraid to try anything.

His love of outdoors grew over the years.  Many vacations were spent camping in the boundary waters, on houseboat trips in northern MN, sailing, snorkeling and relaxing in St. John, at his sister’s cabin (or any cabin really).  His love of outdoors wasn’t just for vacations!  He also loved to work outdoors, sleep in his hammock under the stars, go for long walks with Yeager.  He had dreams of owning acreage up north and a catamaran in St. John in the near future.

Kent had a thirst for knowledge, was extremely caring, compassionate, kind, generous, tender and fun-loving.  Some of his many passions and loves were spending time with family and friends, cooking for others (he was an amazing cook!), reading, researching, spoiling Yeager, deep & heartfelt discussions about all things, adding a bit of silliness to family events, his stepson Reese, and too many other things to list.

In his twenties, Kent joined the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office where he remained throughout his career.  He worked in water patrol where he spent about 12 of his 24 years and achieved the ranking of Master Scuba Diver.  He also worked in many areas including courts, undercover, patrol, range, ESU, and jail.  He rose through the ranks to become Lieutenant Kent Vnuk.  In addition, he had the honor of being invited to the FBI academy in Quantico, VA where he spent 3-4 months of intense training (he deeply enjoyed the experience and knowledge he took away from it).  He had an amazing work ethic and served the county with professionalism, integrity, and high, unwavering, moral standards.

Kent is preceded in death by his mom Carol (Lother) Vnuk, dad Donald Vnuk and many beloved Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

He is survived by his sisters Karen Vnuk (Denny Baker) and Karla Vnuk-Vogel (Wayne Vogel), his brother Kevin Vnuk (Kerry), his stepson Reese Vanderwilt, and his loving dog Yeager.

He is deeply missed by his family and many friends but, most of all, his best bud Yeager.  Rest in peace sweet brother.