Norma A. Wrobleski
March 5, 1943-November 6, 2015
Funeral Notice
 
Benson-Norma A. Wrobleski, 72, died on Friday morning, November 6, 2015, at the Swift County Benson Hospital in Benson.  Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 13, 2015, at 11:00 a.m., at our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12, at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Roger Tollefson, 73, of Starbuck, died Friday, Nov. 6. Funeral serves are set for Friday, Nov. 13, at 10:30 a.m. at West Zion Lutheran Church in Starbuck.

Visitation is Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at the Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck and for one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Burial will be at the West Zion Lutheran Cemetery.

Survivors include: his wife: JoAnn Boorman of Starbuck; two daughters: Cheryl Stewart of Rockford, IL and Lynn Hermes of Plano, Texas; sister: Norma (LaMont) Jietz of Starbuck; two step-children: Russell (Debra) Bruyere of Grand Rapids and Rebecca Rafferty of Glenwood; three step-grandchildren: Derek Bruyere, Scheie and Devin Rafferty; nephew: Benjamin Jietz of Starbuck; and niece: Andrea (Michael) Zimmerman of Lake Elmo.

Obituary for Frances Moen

Memorial services for Frances Moen of Starbuck, MN were Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck.  Reverend Paul Johnson officiated.  Burial was at East Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Rural Starbuck.

Frances Victoria Larson, daughter of Henry and Alice (Pederson) Larson, was born Oct. 11, 1934 in Starbuck, Minnesota where she grew up and attended school.  She was baptized on Nov. 14, 1934 by Reverend Casper Johnshoy and confirmed on May 16, 1949 by Rev. Oscar Rem at the Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck.  During Franny’s teen years, she was employed at the Starbuck Theatre and the Variety Store. On July 18, 1954, she was united in marriage to Orvald Moen of Rural Starbuck at Fron Lutheran Church by Reverend Norman Dversdall.  They lived and farmed in Barsness Township in Pope County, MN from the time of their marriage until 1979 when they moved to Starbuck. During this time, Franny was also employed at the Minnewaska Lutheran Home. After moving to Starbuck, Orvald went into the pumping business and Franny held a position at the Minnewaska District Hospital for several years.  When Orvald passed away on November 4, 2006, Franny moved into the Minnewaska Apartments where she made many new friends.

Franny taught Sunday school and was a member of East Zion ladies’ aide and bible study groups when they were members of East Zion Lutheran Church in rural Starbuck.  She was a Sunday school teacher at Fron Lutheran Church before her marriage, and more recently was a member of the work unit groups there.

Franny loved to read, music of all kinds, puzzles, playing cards at the apartment with her friends, baking donuts, lefse, rosettes and other goodies for her family and others.  She loved nature, pets, bird watching and being with her family.    

Franny passed away on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015 at the Glenwood Retirement Home after a brief illness. She lived to reach the age of 81 years.

She is survived by two children: Laurie (Ron) Kent of Clontarf, MN and Bruce (LuAnn) Moen of Benson, MN; two granddaughters: Natasha Moen of St. Paul, MN and Kristin (Tony) Johnson of Zimmerman, MN; great-granddaughter: Jada Mae Johnson; two sisters: Marvel Hanse of Richfield, MN and Helen Hoverud of Starbuck, MN and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband: Orvald Moen; her parents; brother: Leland Larson; sister: Adeline Moe; one nephew: Lee Warfield; five brothers-in-law: Harold Hanse, Melvin Moe, Odell Hoverud, Clifford Warfield and Edner Danielson and sister-in-law: Lenora Danielson.

Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck, MN is in charge of the arrangements.  To send condolences to the family please visit www.starbuckfh.com

Leslie Rud, of Montevideo, died Sunday, November 15, 2015 at the Chippewa County - Montevideo Hospital at the age of 90.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 at 1:00 PM at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Montevideo with Rev. Marie Eckberg officiating.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5-7:00 PM at the Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home in Montevideo with a prayer service at 6:45 PM.  There will also be visitation at the church for one hour before services.

Leslie Milton Rud was born January 3, 1925 in Mandt Township, Chippewa County, MN the son of Lawrence and Minnie (Nokleby) Rud.  He was baptized January 25, 1925 and confirmed May 25, 1940 at Jevnaker Lutheran Church.  He attended rural school in District 31.  Leslie served in the US Army during WW II.  He was united in marriage with Irene Jolstad on June 15, 1947 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Montevideo.  They lived and farmed in Mandt Township until moving into Montevideo several years ago.  He was an active member of Jevnaker Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council, as Luther League advisors, and also as the janitor for 17 years.  He was a member of the Sons of Norway and active in the activities of the Minnesota Valley Antique Power group.  He also was a member of the VFW and the American Legion.  Leslie loved to restore and collect antique tractors and engines.

He is survived by three children: Galen (and Ruth) Rud and Janice Running of Montevideo and Delaine Rud of Bloomington, MN; four grandchildren: Darrin (Pam) Rud, Jeanna (Jeff) Loeschen, Philip (Jennifer) Rud, and Nathan (Sarah) Rud; eight great-grandchildren: Dana Rud, Andrea Rud, Alexandra Rud, Dylan Rud, Gabriella Rud, Grace Vierhuf, Jaden Loeschen, and Jerzie Loeschen; a sister, Ruby Olson of Montevideo; as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents: his wife, Irene on August 26, 2013; two brothers: Chester and Ole Rud; and a sister, Cora Thompson.

ORGANIST: Rita Knutson
SPECIAL MUSIC: Mary Gibson
Leslie’s Great-Grandchildren   “Jesus Loves Me”
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: “Let All Things Now Living” #881, “This Is My Father’s World”  #824, and “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” #619
MILITARY HONORS: Montevideo American Legion Honor Guard
CASKETBEARERS: {grandchildren} Darrin Rud; Philip Rud; Nathan Rud; Jeanna Loeschen

Barbara Loen
April 27, 1936-November 15, 2015
Obituary
 
Barbara Loen, 79, died on Sunday evening, Nov. 15, 2015, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Fergus Falls.  Funeral services are Friday, Nov.  20, 2015, at 10:30 a.m., at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Swift Falls. Visitation will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Swift Falls and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.
www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 
Barbara Ann Loen was born on April 27, 1936, in Benson, Minnesota, the daughter of Vernon and Ellen (Thone) Dokkebakken. She was baptized on June 21, 1936 and later confirmed at Swift Falls Lutheran Church, and she grew up on the family farm in Camp Lake Township. She attended grade school at District #13 and graduated from Benson High School.  On October 13, 1956 she was united in marriage to Arden Dale Loen, at Swift Falls Lutheran Church in Swift Falls. This union was blessed with over 58 years of marriage and sons Craig and Timothy. They operated a dairy farm in Camp Lake Township. She also worked at the bank, the Benson Creamery, and at Future Products in Benson from 1985 to 2006.
     Barbara served as a 4-H leader, a Sunday school teacher, as a council member and treasurer at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran church, and as a first responder. She was a member of Swift County Dairy Association, WELCA president, WELCA Synod officer, and circle at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.  She enjoyed entertaining guests, church softball, 4-H, being involved in her community, field work, cooking and baking, going to and watching sporting events, and supporting the red “Real” seal. She loved children, Christmas celebrations and family get togethers, especially spending time with her grandchildren. She spent the last four years living in the Glenwood Retirement Village and most recently the Minnesota Veteran’s Home in Fergus Falls. She was called from this life on Sunday evening, November 15, 2015, at the Minnesota Veteran’s Home in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. She attained the age of 79 years, 7 months, and 19 days.
     Barbara is survived by her sons, Craig (Janna) Loen of Cushing, Wisconsin, and Timothy (Connie) Loen of Harvey, North Dakota; six grandchildren Jacob (Abby) Loen, Brenna Loen, Jesse Loen, Brooke Loen, Abby Loen, and Daizee Loen; Brothers Winty (Diane) Dokkebakken of Fergus Falls and Bruce (Christina) Dokkebakken of Big Lake; a sister in law Mary Dokkebakken of Willmar; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Arden, her parents Vernon and Ellen Dokkebakken, a sister Judith Bowman and her husband Tom, and two brothers Lynn Dokkebakken and Dean Dokkebakken.

Virgil Ronholdt
Oct. 5, 1937—Nov. 12, 2015
 
          Virgil Ronholdt, age 78, of Benson, died peacefully Thursday evening, Nov. 12, at the Gabriel House in Murdock with his family by his side.
          Funeral services were at 11 AM, Wednesday, Nov. 18, at Hope Lutheran Church in Sunburg.  Interment was at Spring Creek Lutheran Cemetery in rural Murdock.   Arrangements were with Peterson Brothers Sunburg Funeral Home. (www.petersonbrothers.com)
          Virgil Thomas Ronholdt was born Oct.  5, 1937, on the family farm in Kerkhoven Township, near Murdock, Minnesota, the son of Bennie and Ruth (Gronseth) Ronholdt.  He grew up on the family farm and was baptized and confirmed at Spring Creek Lutheran Church and graduated from Kerkhoven High School in 1955.  After his father’s death in 1955, he took over the dairy farm. On June 18, 1965, he was married to Laurice “Laurie” C. Trapp in St. Paul, Minnesota.  They made their home back on the Ronholdt family farm near Murdock and continued with dairy cattle until he semi-retired in 2001.  Virgil and Laurie had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past June.  Even after retiring, Virgil helped on the farm until 2014.  Virgil and Laurie did some traveling after his retirement which he enjoyed, along with woodworking, fishing, caring for his apple trees, and gardening. Virgil looked forward to spending time with his six grandchildren.  He especially enjoyed the annual visit to the fishing resort in northern MN.  Virgil was active in his church, first at Spring Creek and then at Hope Lutheran.  He was on the building committee, on church council, and sang in the choir.  Virgil loved his family and they summed up his life as Faith, Family and Farming.
          He is survived by his wife, Laurie; three children, Loralyn (and Mark) Westergaard of Wakonda, SD, Sheryl (and Drew) Tinaglia of Faribault, and Brian (and Lora) Ronholdt of Murdock.  Also surviving are six grandchildren (Zechariah and Noah Westergaard, Tanner and Lilly Ronholdt, and Mae and Lane Tinaglia) and a sister, Loretta (and Alfred) Urke of Murdock, besides other relatives and friends.
          He was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant daughter, Lynnette.

Jon Donald Kloos died as a result of a canoe/hunting accident at home on the family farm near Starbuck, MN on Nov. 13, 2015.  A Mass of Christian burial for Jon was at 10:30 A.M. Thursday, Nov. 19, at Assumption Catholic Church in Morris, MN.  Celebrant was Father Todd Schneider.

Jon was born on Sept. 24, 1975 in Morris, MN to Donald and Helen (Kopel) Kloos.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson, MN.  He graduated from Minnewaska High School in 1994.

Jon worked for Bobcat in Gwinner, ND and then moved closer to home to work construction at Central Specialties in Alexandria, MN.  Jon had 2 sons, Tyler and Zachary with Julee McMahon of Glenwood, MN.  Following his position with Central Specialties, he worked as a heavy equipment operator in various locations including Minneapolis/St. Paul, Denver, CO, and Devils Lake, ND.

He graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Mechanical Drafting from Alexandria Technical College in 2004.  He started work with Brenton Engineering in Carlos, MN as a mechanical engineer shortly after graduation. He married Jessica Holmgren on June 4, 2004 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria, MN. They had a son, Hunter, and a daughter, Haylee (Daddy’s princess).

Jon lived for his family. He loved giving 4 wheeler rides, taking his kids fishing and being with his family. He also loved spending time at his childhood home, the family farm, where he enjoyed working on various projects. He spent numerous hours in the deer stand and loved to hunt and be outdoors.

Jon is survived by his wife, Jessica; his four children: Tyler Kloos of White Bear Lake, MN, Zachary Kloos of Roseville, MN, Hunter and Haylee Kloos of Glenwood, MN; two step-children: Paige Anderson of Grand Forks, ND and Shayne Babich of Glenwood, MN; mother: Helen Kloos of Starbuck, MN; four sisters: Dawn (Donald) Reeves, Diane (Rick) Hauer, and Deb (Lonnie) DeSmith of Starbuck, MN and Kayla (Andrew) Kottsick of West Fargo, ND, and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father: Donald Kloos and grandparents: Lawrence and Agnes Kopel, Dan and Freda Kloos.

The family of Jon Kloos would like to thank the Pope County Sheriff’s Department, Douglas County Search and Rescue, Glacial Ridge Ambulance and Dept. of Natural Resources for their time and service.

To send condolences to the family, visit our website at www.hoplinfuneralhome.com and click on obituaries.

Sherri Lynn (Mills) Middleton, 60, daughter of Orie and Marilyn Mills, died Nov. 18, at her home in Houston, Texas, with her husband Peter nearby. Her celebration of life will be at Trinity Lutheran Church in Benson, Monday, Nov. 30, at 11 a.m.. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Sherri was a 1973 graduate of Benson High School.

De Graff, Minnesota-Robert C. Grussing, of DeGraff, age 59, died on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident south of DeGraff.  Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Benson. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 20, 2015 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson. Burial will be in the Benson City Cemetery.  www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 
Robert Charles Grussing was born in Benson, Minnesota, on July 31, 1956, the son of Sylvia (Bentley) and Andy Grussing. He was baptized at First Baptist Church in Benson. He attended country school in Pope County and graduated from Benson Senior High School in 1974. On July 29, 1983, he was united in marriage to Debra Thompson. This union was blessed with over 32 years of marriage and three children, Amy, Terri, and Aaron. He worked for 41 years with Jennie-O in Swift Falls.
 
Robert enjoyed fishing, woodworking and hunting. He loved spending time with his family, especially waffles with the grandkids, and playing with his dog. Robert was called from this life on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 south of DeGraff, Minnesota as a result of injuries sustained from a motor vehicle accident. He is survived by his wife Debra; his children Amy (John) Geyer, Terri Grussing, and Aaron (Amanda) Grussing; his grandchildren Connor, Jada, and TaiAnna; his siblings Dennis (Glenda), Larry (Bonnie), Sharon (Dale), Susan (Stan), and many nieces and nephews.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents Andy and Sylvia; sisters Judy, Annette, and Becky; and a brother Richard.
 
Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .

Randy H. Wester

Randy Hilmer Wester was born on Sept. 19, 1962, in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Thelford and Mabel (Strom) Wester.  He was baptized at Lake Hazel Lutheran Church and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Benson. He attended Benson Schools, where he participated in wrestling and cross country. He graduated from Benson Senior High School with the class of 1981.   He then moved to Litchfield, Minnesota where he worked for Pamida for a short time before attending Hutchinson Vocational College. He then worked for 26 years with HTI in Hutchinson with the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Randy enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, science projects, fixing things, and living on the lake. The Minnesota Boundary Waters was special to him and he was able to canoe and enjoy nature there on many occasions. He relished his role as an uncle and great-uncle and loved spending time with his nieces and nephews as well as other children. Randy died at his home on Friday Nov. 20, 2015 near Darwin, Minnesota. He attained the age of 53 years, 1 month, and 1 day.

     He is survived by his brothers: Bradley Wester of Circle Pines, and Gary  (Lana) Wester of Ham Lake; sisters: Kathy Beckman of Coon Rapids, Janet (Terry) Neubauer of Wendall, Gail Noyes of Watkins, Carol Wester of Hutchinson, Betty (Patrick) Twitchell of Benson, and Cindy Wester (special friend Dave Krattenmaker) of Riverside, California; nieces and nephews: Mark (Megan) Neubauer, Ryan Guse, Scott Neubauer, Tonia (Eric) Cronen, Keith Neubauer, Simeon (Julie) Wester, Alex (Christal) Backman, Aaron (Jen) Flannigan, Lauren Wester, and Morgan Wester; fifteen great-nieces and nephews; a great-great-nephew; two uncles; and an aunt. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelford and Mabel Wester; two brothers, Larry and Robert Wester; and a brother-in-law, Charles Beckman.

     Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .

Norman Bosch, of Montevideo, died Friday, November 20, 2015 at his home in Montevideo at the age of 79.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 24 at 1:00 PM at the United Methodist Church in Montevideo with Rev. Gwen Bohlke officiating. Interment will be at Terrace Lawn Memory Gardens.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 5-8:00 PM at the Anderson - TeBeest Funeral Home in Montevideo with a prayer service at 7:45 PM. Visitation will continue at the church for one hour before the services on Tuesday.

Norman David Bosch was born on January 31, 1936 in Benson, Minnesota to Bernard “Bernie” and Ellen (Lee) Bosch. He graduated from Benson High School in 1954. While touring the University of Minnesota in the spring of 1954 he met his future wife, Wilma Deal. Norman and Wilma were married on August 4, 1957 at the Methodist Church in Tracy, Minnesota. Norman graduated with distinction from the University of Minnesota, College of Agriculture in 1958 with a B.S. degree in Animal Husbandry. Norman and Wilma returned to the home farm in Grace Township. He served in the US Army Reserve from January of 1958 through December 1962.  Norman farmed from 1958 to 2011. In 1993, Norman and Wilma moved to Montevideo.

Family, church, farming and community were all important aspects of Norman’s life. He was active in church, serving on numerous committees including building and merger committees at Rosewood United Methodist Church and Montevideo United Methodist Church.  Norman had been an active 4-H member and served as an adult 4-H leader for many years. He served on the First National Bank Board for over 28 years and the Chippewa County Fair Board for over 25 years where he was named 2009 Volunteer of the Year. His other professional involvement included: Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association, American Dairy Association, Dairy Herd Improvement Association and a charter member of both the Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative and the Minnesota Corn Processors. Because community was important to Norman he was a member of the Montevideo Chamber, the Kiwanis, Brookside Manor Board, Habitat for Humanity, Fiesta Floral Society and the Montevideo Foundation Board.

Norman was a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardner and loved to spend time in his greenhouse. He was interested in conservation and set aside land for this purpose early in his farming career. His devotion to farming  lead to him being named Outstanding Young Farmer and later Chippewa County Farm Family of the year in 1989 and 2001.

Wilma and his children were most important to Norman. His children remember that even though he worked long hours farming he attended every event they participated in. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. Norman was a humble, generous and faithful man who had a sense of humor and always found the good in people.

Norman is survived by his wife of 58 years, Wilma; his children: Bradley (Gail) of Woodridge, IL, Steven (Marcy) of Spirit Lake, IA, JoEllen Park of Anoka, MN, Kent (Janet) of Montevideo, MN and Julie Drechsler of Hamilton, Victoria, Australia; 13 grandchildren: Sara, Nathan, Carrie, Peyton, Matthew, Andrew, Taylor, Morghan, Alexandra, Anthony, William, Kate, and David; 2 great-grandchildren: Amelia and Rebecca; a brother Douglas Bosch of Montevideo, MN, and many other relatives and friends.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents: Bernie and Ellen Bosch; sister, Joyce Stevens; brother-in-law, Malcom Biggin; sister-in-law, Barb Bosch; nephew, David Deal; and niece, Janell (Stevens) Johnk.

Norman Bosch died Friday, November 20, 2015 at his home in Montevideo at the age of 79.  May his memory be blessed.

Memorials preferred to Minnesota 4-H Foundation, Montevideo United Methodist Church, Habitat for Humanity and American Cancer Society (designate Prostate Cancer Research).

    ORGANIST
    Barb Morseth
    SPECIAL  MUSIC
    Kate Drechsler and Alexandra Bosch     “You Are Love”
Tom Hook     “Because He Lives”
Don Garber     “The Lord’s Prayer”
CONGREGATIONAL  HYMNS
“For The Beauty Of The Earth”   
“In The Garden”   
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”   
    CASKETBEARERS
    Jay Stevens    Penny Larson    Marc Stevens    
    Susan Deal    Lee Bosch    Joy Kosak    
    Corey Bosch    Donna Strandlie    Douglas Biggin

Wayne ‘Bud’ Gensler

Dec. 8, 1929 • Nov. 23, 2015

Wayne “Bud” Gensler, 85, died at home November 23, 2015.

A Masonic Service and Memorial Service was scheduled for the Rosemount United Methodist Church, Sunday, Nov. 29 at 12 noon, 14770 Canada Ave W, (651) 423-2475 with interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Wayne was born Dec. 8, 1929 in Terrace, Minnesota to Walter and Ingrid Gensler.

Wayne graduated from Benson High School in 1947 and entered the United States Army, discharged in May 1949, and called back as reserve March 1950 to April 1953. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 1403 in Benson and the American Legion; he was a member of the Corinthian Masonic Lodge 67 and Rosemount United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gretchen; step-daughter, Susan (Brian) Mortenson and grandchildren, John (McKayla), Matthew (Katie) and Adam; step-son, Mark (Rita) Kruse and grandsons, Randy and Blake and great-grandson, Gavin; sister, Shirley (Pat) Maher and many nieces and nephews. Also survived by daughter, Kris (Larry) Jenc and grandsons, Brandon and Ryan and families; son, Peter and granddaughters, Jessica and Madison; daughter, Sarah (Mark) Drahos and granddaughters, Danielle, Katie and Lauren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by parents, Walter and Ingrid; sisters, Barbara Welker and Virginia Egerstrom.

Angeline Sukke
1925 ~ 2015
 
Angeline Sukke, age 90, of Benson, MN, died Sunday in Gabriel House in Murdock.  Funeral services will be Thursday, Dec. 3, at 11 a.m., at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson, officiated by the Rev. Gary Brandenburg.  Visitation will be Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. , at Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson.  Visitation will continue for one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday. Arrangements are with Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

The family prefers memorials to be sent to the donors’ favorite charity.
 

Dallas F. Knudson

Dallas Froholm (Wanberg) Knudson of West Fargo, ND and formerly from Towner, ND, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 6, surrounded by family, in the Sanford Palliative Care Unit in Fargo.  A celebration of her life will be held at Eventide Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo on Friday, Dec. 11, at 2:30 p.m.  A prayer service will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Towner on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2  p.m.

Dallas was born at home  Sept. 11, 1933, to Rev. R.T. and Olga (Moe) Wanberg in Towner, North Dakota.  She graduated from Towner High School in 1952 and graduated from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, with a BA majoring in English and Biology, in 1956. Dallas completed additional graduate studies at NDSU, UND, the University of Oslo, Norway, and a fellowship at the John E. Anderson Graduate School of Management, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA.

Dallas taught high school science in Westby, Wisconsin, from 1956 to 1960.  In 1960, she bought a one-way plane ticket to Norway to begin her Scandinavian adventure.  She taught and later became principal of The American Esso School in Stavanger, Norway, and Göteborg, Sweden.  A sense of adventure guided Dallas while overseas and included working at a ski resort, hitch hiking in England, Scotland and Wales, and touring Spain.

Upon receiving news that her mother was ill, Dallas returned to Towner in the fall of 1964 to care for her.  Dallas married Warner Knudson on June 18, 1965, and resided on the family farm near Berwick.  They celebrated their 50th anniversary with friends and family in June 2015. Dallas taught accelerated English at Minot High until the birth of their three children, Alana, Alyssa, and Chad.  In 1971, Dallas became a Head Start Project Director, serving nine counties, until her retirement in 1998.  She developed a home-based model for rural preschool children that became a national model for implementation. When Dallas retired from Head Start, she worked for the Minot School System as a grant writer until 2001. She devoted her life to supporting others in finding resources and opportunities to achieve personal and professional goals.

Dallas was active in numerous organizations throughout her life including:  national and regional Head Start boards; Sons of Norway; charter member of Daughters of Norway; Rugby Community Concert Board of Directors; Darners Club; Thrivent Board; Silver-Haired Congress (state and national); NW Area Girl Scout Council Board of Directors; Minot Commission on Aging; State Aging Commission; Tri County Nutrition Board of Directors; and was appointed to several state committees serving children, families and the elderly.  Dallas was also dedicated to church-related activities and served in leadership positions and as organist for many years.  She enjoyed documenting local and family histories as well as assisting others with their genealogies. It was particularly important to her to maintain her connection to her Norwegian heritage and relatives. Dallas and Warner volunteered for the U.S. Park Service and served as guides on Amtrak during the summers.  Traveling, seeing dear friends and family, and great adventures guided their fun together. 

Dallas is survived by her husband, Warner, West Fargo; children, Alana Knudson (Roland Gamache), Rockville, MD, Alyssa Knudson Arntsen (Erik), Duluth, MN, and Chad Knudson (Becky), West Fargo; grandchildren, Emma, Anna and Ella Arntsen, Duluth, MN, Ben and Rachel Knudson, West Fargo, Patrick, Brian and Colleen Gamache, Indianapolis, IN, and Jack and Emily Lin, West Fargo; brother, Larrie Wanberg, Solvang, CA; and sisters-in-law, Betty Peterson (Pete), Rochester, MN, and Jean Baglien (Terry), Placentia, CA.  She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant brother, sister, Nordis Wanberg, brother, Richard Wanberg, and a sister-in-law, Bjørg Wanberg.

James “Jim” Lysen

James “Jim” V. Lysen, age 69, of Glenwood, MN, was discovered to have died at his home, of natural causes, on Thursday, December 3, 2015.  A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, December 14^th, at the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood, with visitation beginning at 5:00 P.M. and running until the time of service.  Inurnment will be in Fron Cemetery, rural Starbuck.  Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood.

James Verne Lysen, the only child of Henning and Clara (Anderson) Lysen, was born on February 5, 1946, at the hospital in Glenwood, MN.  He was baptized at Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck and confirmed there on January 8, 1961, by Rev. Norman Dversdal. 

Jim attended schools at Starbuck, MN, and Corpus Christi, Texas before graduating from Glenwood High School in 1964.  He attended the University of Minnesota at Morris for a year, followed by a year at the Minneapolis Institute of Technology, before joining the U.S. Navy on March 10, 1968.  He trained at the San Diego Naval Base and was later transferred to Treasure Island Naval Base in San Francisco, where he was a basic electronic technician, able to repair and maintain complicated electronics throughout the Navy.  

Jim was honorably discharged after six years of military service and returned to Minnesota, settling in Waseca, where he worked repairing ham radio receivers.  After his parents died, he returned to the family farm in Reno Township, Pope County, where he resided until the time of his death.

Jim enjoyed visiting with friends all over the country on his ham radio station, WDOLA.  He had a special gift to repair machinery, computers, or any household problem.  His hobbies included motorcycles, hunting, fishing, and spending time on his computer.  He also enjoyed the companionship of his dog.

Jim is survived by his cousin, Helen Claire Anderson of Glenwood, and special friend, Marti Wivel of DuPont, Washington.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henning, in 1980, his mother, Clara (Anderson) Lysen in 1997, a maternal aunt, Belle Anderson, and five maternal uncles, Herman, Adolph, Edward, Harry, and Casper Anderson, one paternal aunt, Lily Lysen Tollefson, and two  paternal uncles, Elmer and Ernest Lysen.

Memorials may be directed to the Pope County Humane Society, 17584 195th Ave, Glenwood, MN 56334, or the Pope County Museum and Historical Society, 809 Highway 104 South, Glenwood, MN 56334.

LaVerne M. Skarsten
April 3, 1932-December 11, 2015
 LaVerne M. Skarsten, 83, died on Friday, Dec.11, at the Swift County-Benson Hospital. A memorial service is set for Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 11 am, at Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ in Benson. Visitation will be held from 5 pm to 7 pm, Monday, Dec. 14, at the Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ in Benson, and again Tuesday for one hour prior to the service at the church. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is in charge of the arrangements. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 

Ronald E. Swan

May 11, 1943 – December 17, 2015

 Funeral Services will be 1 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, with visitation from 11:30 AM – 1 PM at the Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson, MN.  Burial will be in the Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Kerkhoven Ambulance or Minneapolis VA Healthcare Systems “Fisher Fund”.  www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

Ronald Eugene Swan was born May 11, 1943, in Slayton Township, Murray County, Minnesota, to Gordon Earl and Ada Luella (Indall) Swan.  He grew up in Slayton, Minnesota; Canton, South Dakota; and Milbank, South Dakota, graduating from Milbank High School in 1961. 

He lived in San Diego, California and served in the United States Marine Corp from 1962 to 1971, during the Vietnam Era, with two deployments to Japan and Vietnam.  On Aug. 22, 1964, Ron was united in marriage to Geraldine Hamann in St. Paul, Minnesota.  They were blessed with more than 51 years of marriage.  On July 11, 1979 they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Angelyn Marie. 

From 1971 to 1997 they lived in rural Chippewa, Kandiyohi, and Swift counties where Ron worked as a welder and hobby farmer.  They moved to Kerkhoven in 1997 and Ron continued to work as a welder until his retirement in 2008, when he began helping babysit his grandkids until they started school.  He enjoyed hobby farming, hunting, traveling, target shooting, working outdoors, riding horse, Nascar, and spending time with his grandkids.

Ron passed away Thursday, Dec.17, 2015, at the Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar.  He attained 72 years, 7 months, and 6 days of age.

Ron is survived by his wife, Geraldine of Kerkhoven; daughter, Angelyn (Eric) Tolifson of Benson; grandchildren, Ashten and Elsie Tolifson; brother, Michael (Angelina) Swan of Lake Worth, FL; brothers-in-law: Ronald (Gen) Hamann of Isabella, MO, Donald (Mary) Hamann of Elizabeth, AR, and Dale Hamann of St. Paul, MN; sister-in-law, Donna (Earl) Longendyke of Butler, TN; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Ada Swan; brother, Leland Swan; and sister, Penny Nord.

Please sign the guestbook at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .

Donald Eldon Thompson, 84, of Murdock, died Thursday Dec. at Gabriel House in Murdock. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 21st at Kerkhoven Lutheran Church in Kerkhoven. Visitation will be from 4-6:00 p.m. on Sunday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Kerkhoven and continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Rolling Fork Cemetery in Swift Falls. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Kerkhoven. www.hafh.org

Donald was born on Dec.16, 1931 to Bernt and Ruby (Hanson) Thompson in Swift County. He was one of ten children who grew up on the family farm north of Murdock. He attended country school until graduating from Murdock High School in 1950. After his schooling, Don enlisted in the Army, where he served during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He was stationed on the Korean Peninsula.

On Jan. 24, 1957, Don married Lorraine Swenson. To this union six children were born. After marriage he worked on a farm in Swift County. After a few years, Don and his family moved to the Bloomington area where he worked as a skilled welder. In 1968, He and his family moved back to the Kerkhoven area, moving to a farm. Don continued to work as a welder, where he worked at Willmar Manufacturing for 26 years before retiring. Don enjoyed deer hunting, playing horseshoes, fishing and growing the most beautiful garden around. He was extremely handy, fixing minibikes, motorcycles or anything else his children would break. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Lorraine of Murdock, children: Vicki (Glenn) Otteson of Belgrade, Doug (Vicky) Thompson of Pennock, Daniel “Dano” Thompson of Kerkhoven, Brian (Stephanie) Thompson of Kerkhoven, Tim Thompson of Kerkhoven and Lori Thompson of Brooten; 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Thomas Thompson of Willmar, Betty Nordby of Spicer, and Bernice Rodi of Benson.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and six sisters.

Ward Fennell

November 28, 1926 – December 20, 2015

 Ward Fennell, age 89, formerly of Benson, died Sunday, December 20, 2015, at his home in New Ulm, Minnesota.  A Memorial Service will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are pending with the Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson, MN.  www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

Henry M. Walsh
October 10, 1929-December 25, 2015
Obituary
 
Benson, MN- Henry M. Walsh, 86, died on Friday, December 25, 2015, at the Swift County Benson Hospital. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 29, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson. Visitation will be held on Monday, December 28, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a 6:30 p.m. Parish Prayer Service, at St Francis Catholic Church in Benson. Visitation will also be held for one hour prior to the funeral on Tuesday.  Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is in charge of the arrangements. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com
 
Henry M. Walsh was born on October 10, 1929 in Murdock, Minnesota, the son of Henry Leo and Mary (Foley) Walsh. He was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Faith at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock. He grew up and attended school in Murdock and graduated from Murdock High School. He then attended Ag school in Morris. Henry served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.
    
On June 9, 1952, Henry was united in marriage to Albie Payne by Father Doerrer at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson. Together they were able to share in over 63 years of marriage. He farmed his entire life in the Murdock and Benson area. He was a member of the Benson VFW Post 1403, Foresters, and the Swift County ASC Board. He served St. Francis Catholic Church on the Parish Council, Catholic School Board, and on the Diocesan Education Board. He enjoyed monitoring the stock market, visiting the homebound, reading, gardening, duct tape innovations, wood working, and being active in his church.  Henry loved spending time with his family. He was called from this life on Friday, December 25, 2015 at the Swift County Benson Hospital.
 
He is survived by his wife Albie of Benson; his children Vicky (Tom) Traen of Benson, Tim (Cindy) Walsh of Glenwood, Robert (Mary) Walsh of Dawson, Anthony (Vickie) Walsh of Hudson, Wisconsin, Lisa (Eric) Peterson of Benson, and Dan Walsh of Rochester; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; a brother Walter Walsh of DeGraff; a sister Monica Osterbauer of Willmar; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Mary; stepmother Nora; a son Gregory Walsh; brothers Clarence and Jerome Walsh; and sisters Ann Scepniak and Mary Ellen Fennell.  Blessed be his memory.
 
Please sign the guest book at www.zniewskifuneralhome.com .