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Vincent Leroy Azure, age 78, of Chisago City, MN passed away peacefully at his home in Chisago City on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Vincent was born in Veblen, SD to August and Ida (Longie) Azure. He spent his early childhood on a small family farm before the family moved to Sisseton, SD, and then later relocated to St. Paul, MN, when Vince was around 10 years old.

Vince graduated from Murray High School in St. Paul in 1965. During his school years, he was active in many activities, including playing on the baseball and basketball teams. It was near the end of his senior year that he met his future wife, Joyce.

In 1966, Vince was drafted into the United States Army and he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he married Joyce in October 1968. They made their home in St. Paul, where they raised their three children, and later moved to Chisago City, MN, where they permanently settled.

Vince was an avid Minnesota sports fan and a talented athlete himself. Over the years, he played in numerous softball, bowling, and horseshoe leagues. He also enjoyed collecting rare coins and sports memorabilia. Above all, Vince cherished time spent with family and friends. He especially looked forward to his monthly card nights with his nephews and the many cherished family gatherings and traditions.

Vince was preceded in death by his parents, August and Ida; his brother, Tony Azure; brothers-in-law, Ray Kaltveit and Harley Christopherson; and nephew, Donnie Christopherson.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 57 years, Joyce; his children, Vicki Azure Schroeder (Rich Bjorgan), Valeri (Eric) Hellmich, and Greg (Kim) Azure; his grandchildren, Kaylee (Chris), Nicole (Spencer), Aziz, Dillon, and Chase; and his great-grandchildren, Cash and Penelope. He is also survived by his sisters, Theresa Kaltveit and Betty Christopherson; his sister-in-law, Edith Azure; and many other family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Vince will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of sports, and the warmth and kindness he shared with all who knew him.

Memorial service for Vince will be held 6 PM Friday, January 2, 2025 at Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, Minnesota. Visitation two hours prior. Burial at a later date at South Green Lake Cemetery in Chisago City, MN.

Arrangements with Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, MN. Condolences may be expressed at www.grandstrandfh.com.

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