Thief River Falls - Arthur Mortensen, 82 of Thief River Falls passed away peacefully on Friday, June 2, 2017 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.
    Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 9, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt,  with Reverend Cathie Rhodes officiating. Burial will be held at the Holt Cemetery, Holt.
    Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2017 from 5-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls and also one hour prior to the service on Friday.
    Arthur Louis Mortensen was born on February 3, 1935 at Argyle, son of Carl and Elizabeth (Betts) Mortensen. He was raised in the Argyle area and moved to the Holt area where he attended rural school. He was baptized February of 1935 and confirmed May 1, 1955.
    Arthur worked in St. Paul for the Pearson Candy Company for several years. He moved back to the Holt area where he worked for several area farmers.
    Following his retirement, Arthur moved into the Skylite apartments in Thief River Falls and lived the last three months at Valley Home.
    Arthur enjoyed watching sports, especially baseball and wrestling. He liked bowling and curling. He enjoyed listening to country music especially Terri Clark. He loved to visit family and friends.
    Arthur was survived by his siblings Orville (Jane) Mortensen of Montrose, and Karen (Kenny) Peterson of New Brighton; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
    He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Andy Mortensen, Myrtle Holmstrom, Johnny Mortensen, Melvin Mortensen, Blanche Waterworth, Jerry Mortensen, Dale Mortensen, Allen Mortensen several nieces, nephews and extended family.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Thief River Falls - Leslie Walters, 40 of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at her residence.
    A funeral service was held on Sunday, June 4, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls. Burial will be held at Lower Cemetery Tule River Indian Reservation at Porterville, CA.
    Leslie Ann Walters was born January 3, 1977 at Tulare, CA daughter of Loren and Janice (Grissom) Fredricks. She was raised and attended school in Porterville, CA. Growing up she competed in dancing and was crowned a three time Pow Wow Princess in various dance competitions in the Western US. She moved with her family to Minden, NV in 1992 where she graduated from Douglas County High School in 1995.
    On May 22, 1999 she was united in marriage to Jerry Walters at Bently Science Park in Minden, NV. Leslie had a successful career in manufacturing and product distribution which brought her to her Digi Key Family in 2004.
    Leslie is survived by her husband Jerry of Thief River Falls; daughter Diana (Bryan) Barberena of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren Deagan, Chael and Tevia; mother Janice Fredricks of Thief River Falls; brother Loren (Sarah) Lenares and their three children of Porterville, CA; along with many cousins and extended family.
    She is preceded in death by her father Loren Fredricks.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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H. Willis “Butch” Jadeke, 88    
    Thief River Falls -  H. Willis “Butch” Jadeke, age 88 of Thief River Falls, formerly of Warren, passed away June 1, 2017, at Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls where he had lived for the past 2 years.
    A funeral service was held on Monday, June 5, 2017 at Grace United Methodist Church  in Warren. Interment was held at Greenwood Cemetery in Warren.
    Online register book is available at www.duborefuneralhome.com. Arrangements with DuBore Funeral Home of Warren.

Blackduck & Little Falls - Allen "Zeno" Casavan, 62, of Blackduck, formerly of Little Falls, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2017, in Williston, ND. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Camp Ripley Chapel inside the main gates of Camp Ripley, north of Little Falls, (all attendants must have a photo ID to enter).
    Burial will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery north of Little Falls. A visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, 2017 at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, and from 10-11 a.m. on Friday at the Camp Ripley Chapel.
    Allen "Zeno" Casavan was born on January 11, 1955 in Red Lake Falls, to Zeno Casavan and Margaret (Ford) Casavan. He grew up on the family farm.
    On August 26, 2005, Allen married Joyce Tretter. He served many years with the United States National Guard, from which he recently retired in 2012. He then went to work at Mastics and was currently employed at Tjader & Highstrom Utility Services based in New Richmond, WI. for the past 7 years. He enjoyed working around the house, using his carpentry skills to do many projects on his own.
    Allen enjoyed the outdoors, playing cards and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was always known to be a hard worker and dedicated employee. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
    Allen is survived by his loving wife; Joyce; mother; Margaret Fournier; children, Lisa (Kal) Desrosier, Lonnie (Marisa Ramirez) Casavan, Zeno (fiancé Yesenia Marquetti), Audrey (Michael) Compton and Daniel Casavan; siblings, Varuna (Bill) Boutain, Diane (Mike) Renner, Tina (William) MacKellar, Rose (Sonny) Saice, Judy (John) Mackowick, Art (Mary) Casavan, Sandra (Gary) Corbin, Sharon (Mylo) Lilke, Pauline (Tony) Newquist, and Barb (Gene) Johnson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Karen (David) Dickmann, Dicky (Doreen) Tretter, Bonnie Snyder, Sandy (Rick) Bleeker, Eugene (Sandra) Tretter, Jodell (David) Tretter, Lynette Grzybek (Mike Dingmann), G.G. Tretter (Henery “Chico” Abusta) and Becky Tretter; many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.
    Allen is preceded in death by his father, Zeno Casavan; sister, Jane Cargill; nephews, David Boutain and Brad Casavan and his step-father, Louis Fournier.
     Arrangements are with the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, (320)632-5242. www.shelleyfuneralchapels.com
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Fosston - Cary Berberich, age 42, of Fosston, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2017, as a result of a motorcycle accident.
    Funeral services were held on Monday, June 12, 2017, at Bethel Assembly Church in Fosston. Interment was in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Brooks.
    Cary Robert Berberich was born on August 24, 1974 in Red Lake Falls, to parents Robert and Eleanor Kostrzewski Berberich. He grew up in Brooks,  and graduated from Oklee High School in 1993.
    Cary furthered his education at the Technical College in Wadena, graduating with a degree in telephone repair and telecommunications. He then worked for a short time in Lake Mills, IA before moving back to the area, eventually settling in Fosston. Cary has been a dedicated employee for Garden Valley Telephone Company since February 3, 1997.
    In his spare time, Cary liked fishing, riding motorcycle, dirt-biking with his son, the outdoors, working on home improvement projects, and Menards dates with his fiancé. Most of all, he loved his children and his fiancé dearly. They were excited about planning their wedding day for December 20th of this year.
    Cary was currently Assistant Fire Chief with Fosston Fire and Rescue.
    Survivors include his fiancé, Jennifer Fletcher- Nelson of Thief River Falls,  and her children, Haley, Mariah and Katie; Cary’s daughters, Tashia, Isabelle and son, Isaiha; his parents, Robert and Eleanor Berberich of West Fargo, ND; siblings, Kristi (Mark) Brockberg of Onalaska, WI, Jason (Casey) Berberich of Grand Forks, ND, and Tera (Bob) Christianson of West Fargo, ND. Nieces and nephews, Matt, Josh, Asa, Kael, Jonas, Kellen, Kiley, Brynlee, Hadley and Joely and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
    Also surviving are Jennifer’s parents, Ken and Joanne Fletcher of Thief River Falls; and her siblings, Michele (Randy) Audette of Viking, and Tony Fletcher of Thief River Falls; her nieces and nephews, Shelby, Abigail, Austin, Trey and Khloe.
    Cary was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frederic and Delores Berberich, and Roman and Helen Kostrzewski; godfather, Roger Berberich; and other aunts, uncles and cousins.
    Arrangements were with the Carlin Funeral Home of Fosston and messages of condolence may be sent at www.carlinfuneral.com.
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Tony A. Baker    
    Thief River Falls -  A grave-side service will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at Folden Cemetery in rural Newfolden.

Thorndale, TX & Thief River Falls - Joan (Wilson) Weir, formerly of Thief River Falls, now residing in Thorndale, Texas, died peacefully surrounded by loving family on Friday, June 2, 2017.
    The family had a wake on Saturday, June l0, 2017, at her home in the country, with family, friends, and her beloved donkeys.
    Joan was born to the late Clarence and Anne Olson on April 10, 1945 in Owatonna. She had a boisterous laugh that could fill a room. She was the ultimate entertainer, whipping together a party with ease, her yellow notepad companion never too far.
    Joanie made you feel welcome, valued, and loved with a hot meal and her full attention. Tom and Joan shared a beautiful marriage and partnership. You could tell as she barked at him for always cheating at Spinner, the daily nap shared after watching Bold & Beautiful, or often heard "For God's sake, Tom!" Their love for each other was incredible.
    Joan never liked taking pictures, but throw in a grandkid and she would oblige. We will always remember her Christmas sweatshirt, sense of humor, her brownies, her talks in the sunroom, and knowing how proud she was of each of us.
    Joan is survived by her beloved husband Tom Weir; children: Stan Wilson and wife Christina, Natalie Obee; step-children: Dan Weir and wife Melody, Ashlee Jolly and husband Patrick, and Jennifer Jorrie; grandchildren: Paulina, Colt, Mia, Lily, Vivien, Jack, Ethan, Justin, Garrett, Gaylen, and Kyle.
    She requested any memorial be donated to your local Catholic Community Services.
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Wagoner, OK & Thief River Falls - Mae VonWald of Wagoner, Oklahoma, formerly of Thief River Falls, went home to be with the Lord, on Friday, May 26, 2017, at 88 years of age.
    Funeral services were hold on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at the Church of God in Wadoner, OK, with Pastors Bruce, Matthew, and T.K. VonWald officiating.
    Mae was born in Grand Forks, ND, to William and Rose Fluke on May 27, 1928; she was one of eight children. She began her early education in Holt.
    Mae married Duane C. VonWald on August 1, 1953 in Thief River Falls, to this union two children were born. In her earlier years, she worked as a waitress  as well as at the T.B. Sanatorium in Thief River Falls, and also spent  time working in the potato fields in North Dakota.  
    After the children were older, Mae worked  at the Arctic Cat Snowmobile Factory; she was a assembly line worker. She also worked in the clerical department for a bank in California.
    Mae was always a homemaker and a working mother, to help raise her family. She enjoyed working with ceramics and was a great cook. She was a proud member of the Church Of God in Wagoner, OK.
    Mae leaves behind her loving husband, Duane, one son, Bruce VonWald and his wife Virginia and one daughter Debbie A. VonWald, all of Wagoner; one brother, Don Fluke of Idaho Falls, ID and two sisters, Janice Hanson and husband Earl of Thief River Falls, and DeEtta Hanson and husband Floyd of Newfolden; three grandchildren: T.J. VonWald and wife Cameron, Matthew VonWald and wife Samantha and Sarah Vallejos; and six great-grandchildren: Jaylin, Kaileigh, Jayce, Kamden, Piper and Joelle; nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
    Mae was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Lorene and Luella, along with two brothers, Willis and Walter.
    Arrangements and cremation were under the care of Shipman Funeral Home & Crematory, Wagoner, OK.
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Thief River Falls - Kathleen “Kathy” Hume, 74, of Thief River Falls, passed away on Thursday June 15, 2017 at Thief River Care Center, Thief River Falls, with her loving family by her side.
    Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 19, 2017 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Thief River Falls with Father Rick Lambert presiding. Burial followed at St. Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery, Thief River Falls.
    Kathleen Joy Kelly was born February 18, 1943 at Thief River Falls, the daughter of James E. and Dorothy (Webskowski) Kelly. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church.
    Kathy attended Northrup Elementary and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1961. Following school, she worked at Ben Franklin in Thief River Falls and moved to Crookston, in 1964, where she worked for Cox Bakery and where she met her future husband, Bill. She also worked for Dow Key.
    On September 19, 1964, Kathy was united in marriage to William Robert Hume at St. Bernard’s Church, Thief River Falls where the couple made their home and raised three daughters, Connie, Shawn and Billie Jo. She stayed home to raise the children and when they were older Kathy went to work at Northland Foods and later as a maid at Best Western.
    Kathy was a member of St. Bernard’s Church, Thief River Falls.  She enjoyed making afghan’s, working with ceramics and playing Bingo.  Most especially she loved spending time at home with her children and grandchildren.  
    She is survived by husband Bill, Thief River Falls; children: Connie (John) Salstrand, Hermantown, Shawn (Coby) Aase, Babbitt, and Billie Jo Garry, Thief River Falls; eight grandchildren: Zachary (Leah), Nicholas and Jacob Salstrand, Chloe and Kenneth Aase and Gabrielle, Sydnie and Molly Garry; one brother: James (Janice) Kelly, Crookston, and sister: Pat Huttleston, Sacramento, CA; and several nieces and nephews.
    She is preceded in death by parents, sisters: Madonna Molstad and Marlene Backlund.
    Family condolences may be sent to www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Holt - Clifford Nils Reierson, 82 of Holt, died peacefully on Saturday, June 17, 2017 at the Thief River Care Center with his family by his side. May he be united with his family who have gone before him and his Lord in Heaven.
    Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 23, 2017 at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt with Rev. Cathie Rhodes officiating. Burial will follow at the Holt Cemetery.  
    Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, and one hour prior to the funeral.
    Clifford Nils Reierson was born during a snowstorm on November 16, 1934 at the home of his grandparents Ole and Allette Reierson on the family farm in Excel Township, the son of Oscar and Clara (Ness) Reierson. He was baptized and confirmed at Nazareth Lutheran Church where he was a lifetime member. 
    Cliff’s grandparents immigrated from Norway and his parents raised him with good values and a strong pride for his Norwegian heritage.  
    Cliff’s early years were spent working and playing on the farm and attending Holt Elementary School. At the age of 10, Cliff began his work career doing farm chores for their neighbor, Elmer Ode. He attended Newfolden High School, graduating in 1952. After high school, Cliff worked for the Great Northern Railroad.
    On September 29, 1956 Cliff was united in marriage to Jeanette Eva Grabanski at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt. During the next forty years, he worked in Thief River Falls and continued farming. First at Western Oil, then Sjoberg’s, Land o’ Lakes, and finally Cenex, where he retired in 1996.
    With Jeanette’s help, along with their three children: Marty, Marcy and Mark, Cliff continued to farm. His work was his greatest interest and he was known for being practical, honest and dependable. For the past 7 years, Cliff has resided at the Thief River Care Center. His bright blue eyes and smile brought happiness to those around him.
    Cliff had many lifelong friends and enjoyed hunting, fishing, drinking coffee, driving around the countryside and watching old westerns.  He also liked to dance, play cards and go to auction sales. He was happiest when working with friends or family on the farm.
    He was a member of the Nazareth Church Council and Holt Cemetery Board, Eagles, served on the Marshall County Thrivent  Board, and was a Marshall County Social Services Driver. After his retirement, Cliff enjoyed driving truck during the sugar beet harvest.
    Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Jeanette of Holt; daughter Marcy (Dr. Craig) Mickelson, Thief River Falls; son Mark (Jody) Reierson, Holt; and daughter-in-law Gloria Reierson, Thief River Falls. Five grandchildren: Paul Reierson, Amy Reierson, Andrea Reierson, Adam Reierson, all of Thief River Falls; and Brady (Katy) Reierson of Holt. Two great-grandchildren: Elena Staite and Addalynn Reierson of Thief River Falls. Sister-in-laws: Phyllis Martin, Shoreview; Rose Eichorn, Andover; brother-in-law: James Martin, Shoreview; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.
    Cliff is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Clara Reierson, son Marty Reierson (1957-2016) and infant grandson Luke Reierson (1974); brother and sister-in-law Vernon and Maxine Reierson; sister-in-law: Audrey Rude, brother-in-laws Ernest Rude and Bruce Eichorn and niece Jill Rude.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Doreen E. Nord, 94    
    Red Lake Falls -  Doreen E. Nord, age 94 of Red Lake Falls, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2017 at Villa St. Vincent in Crookston.
    Memorial Services will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church in Red Lake Falls,  on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Gary Graff Officiating. Burial will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Red Lake Falls.
    Visitation will be held on Friday 5-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Bethany Lutheran Church in Red Lake Falls and also one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
    Condolences may be sent to www.johnsonfuneralservice.com

Frank A. Schmidt, Jr., 78    
    Red Lake Falls -  Frank Arthur Schmidt, Jr. passed away at home on Monday, June 19, 2017 at the age of 78.
    A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls at 1:30 p.m. with Father Bob Schreiner officiating. Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.
    Visition will be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Orville A. Botner, 85    
    Alexandria -  Orville Arnold Botner, age 85, of the Garfield/Alexandria area, formerly of Thief River Falls, passed away on Monday, June 19, 2017 at the St. Cloud Hospital.
    A memorial service was held on Friday, June 23, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria.
    Arrangements were with Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net

Alexandria - Orville Arnold Botner passed away on Monday, June 19, 2017 at the St. Cloud Hospital at the age of eighty-five.
     A memorial service was held on Friday, June 23, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria.
    Orville Arnold Botner was born on January 19, 1932 in Garfield, one of four children of Robert and Anna (Severson) Botner. He attended grade school at District 8 School and graduated from Central High School in 1949.
    Orville worked at a local restaurant for a year after graduating from high school before enlisting in the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1951 to 1955. After being honorably discharged from the military he attended Minneapolis Business College.
    A mutual friend introduced Orville to Ardis Wig and the two were united in marriage on August 2, 1958. The union was blessed with two children, Susan and Rick.
    Orville worked for the First Bank Corporation for several years in Alexandria, Cloquet and Wheaton. He then took a job at Northern State Bank in Thief River Falls from 1968 and retired as Vice President in 1994.  
    Orville and Ardis purchased a lake lot in the early 1970’s near Alexandria and built a cabin for summer weekends. They later built a retirement home and moved to the lake permanently in 2004.
    They also traveled across the United States in a camper, often touring any and every antique dealership along the way. They started to buy and sell antiques themselves later in life in Alexandria. In his spare time when not with his family or working, he enjoyed bowling and working with stained glass.
    Orville was part of a foursome that golfed together for twenty-five years playing, visiting and making memories. He could also be found cheering on Minnesota sports teams or tapping his toe to country music.
    Orville served and supported his church in many roles, both as a member, treasurer and council member. He often accepted things as they came; he was a kind hearted man who supported and loved his family. He enjoyed the Christmas season and took special care in selecting thoughtful and generous gifts.
    Orville is survived by his wife, Ardis; children,  Susan Botner, and husband, Michael Gonshorowski, son, Rick Botner; granddaughter, Laura Gonshorowski; and many nieces and nephews.
    He is preceded in death by his sister, Clarice Vee; and brothers, Bernie and Archie Botner.
    Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net
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Thief River Falls - Betty Wold of Thief River Falls,  passed away on June 21, 2017 at the Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls. 
    Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017 at the Johnson Funeral Chapel in Thief River Falls with Kent Hudson officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.  Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls following a time of lunch and fellowship.
    Betty Jane McEnelly was born and raised in Goodridge, the daughter of Guy and Selma (Hanson) McEnelly. She was a highly intelligent person and skipped a grade, allowing her to graduate from high school a year early.
    After graduation, Betty moved to Thief River Falls where she met and married her beloved husband, Ralph Wold. They moved to Tacoma, WA for a brief time, but did return to Thief River Falls to start a family. They were blessed with four children, Sheila, Renae, Dave and Denise. Ralph passed away on July 12, 1982.
    From 1972-1976, Betty fulfilled her lifelong dream of going to college. She graduated from Northland Community College in 1974 and Bemidji State University in 1976 where she graduated with honors.  Graduating from college was one of her proudest achievements.
    Betty worked hard all of her life. When her children were small, she sewed most of their clothing.  She also loved baking, and most days when the kids came home from school, she served them freshly baked goodies. 
    Betty was also very good at decorating, and she kept a beautiful home. She loved going to auction and estate sales and refinishing her treasures. She was also an avid reader, and loved doing crossword puzzles, word jumbles and word searches.  She enjoyed working in her flower garden and visiting with family and friends.
    The family is thankful to Tom and Lois Wang for being such caring neighbors and good friends through the years, and the family is also thankful to the staff at the Thief River Care Center who befriended her and cared for her during her stay there.
    Betty is survived by her children, Sheila Duvall (widow of George Duvall) of Virginia Beach, VA; Renae Coddington (Ali Hassan), Eden Prairie; Dave (Tracy) Wold, Maplewood; and Denise (Steve) Nordhagen of Thief River Falls.
    She is also survived by her grandchildren, David Duvall, Jennifer Duvall, Marissa Wold, Kalli Wold, Anna Nordhagen and Maria Nordhagen, and step-grandchildren, Jim (Melissa) Coddington, Sarah (Jeff) MacPhail, and Jessika (Nate) Evans, as well as step great-grandchildren Megan, Jimmy and Matthew Coddington and Uma MacPhail.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com

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Arlington Heights, IL - Cory Thane Nelson, age 50, died Friday, June 2, 2017, after a battle with esophageal cancer, in Arlington Heights, IL where he lived with his son, JT.
    A private family service will be held in July at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
    Cory was born August 9, 1966 in Thief River Falls. He lived in Grand Forks, ND, Aurora, Co, and St. Charles, IL. He graduated from High school in St. Charles, IL, attended Purdue University, Elmhurst College, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.  He earned an Architectural/Drafting Certificate from the Minnesota College of Art & Design.
    Cory held several positions in architectural drafting, audio-cad, and other designs. He designed neon signs, while working in Milwaukee, WI.
    Cory is survived by his son, John Terry Nelson, of Arlington Heights, IL, father and stepmother, Terry and Judy Nelson, of Thief River Falls, mother, Dianne Bedenbough, brothers, Brandon and Lisa Nelson, children, Sophia, Mina, and Everett, of Sawyer, MI, Joshua and fiancée, Amelia Nelson, of Portland, OR, Jason and Stacey Sauve, children, Bennett and Taylor, of Thief River Falls, Caleb Nelson (Chelsey), children, Elijah and Atlas, of Thief River Falls, Micah Nelson, of Roseville, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
    Cory was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vernon and Bernice Nelson, Juliet Johnson, Garland and Hazel Stromsmoe, all of Thief River Falls.
    Cory was a loving and devoted father, son, brother, and friend. His passion in life was his care and love for his son, JT.
    May God Bless Cory’s memory.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Middle River - Olga Elizabeth Hamberg  passed away at the Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls, on Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at the age of 99 years, 6 months and 22 days.
    Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 6, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Middle River with Pastor Mark Mathews officiating.  Visitation will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2017, with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Collins Funeral Chapel in Middle River, as well as one hour prior to services on Thursday at the church. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery at Strathcona.
    Olga Elizabeth Hamberg, the daughter of the late Peter and Agda (Wicklund) Lorenson, was born on Dec. 5, 1917, on a farm near Strathcona. She attended the former Sunnyside School near her home through the 8th grade.
    Olga was baptized in the Lutheran faith. She married Nels Hamberg in 1934 and in 1936, they went to Montana in a 1936 Model T to look for work. They returned to Strathcona and bought a farm where they raised their three children, Duane, Janyce and Judy.
    In 1955, the family moved to the Iron Range and in 1959 moved to Arizona. Nels passed away in 1990 and Olga then made her home in Middle River with her daughter, Janyce. She was a loving, sweet lady who enjoyed cooking and baking for family and friends. Her cookie jar was always full.  She enjoyed her family and watching cooking shows on TV.
    Olga is survived by her son, Duane and friend, Bertha, of Elk, WA, and two daughters: Janyce of Middle River and Judy (Sam) Darby, of Cottonwood, AZ; 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren; stepdaughter: Louise Knutson, of Greenbush;  in addition to numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
    Olga was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, daughter-in-law: Karen Hamberg; son-in-law: Larry Peterson; step-mother: Bessie Lorenson; brother: John Lorenson; sisters: Agnes (Oscar) Olson, Gladys (Ishmeal) Rynning, Bernice (Clayton) Christopher, Alice (Lloyd) Anderson, Mildred (Larry) Sumner and Ardyce (Orphie) Dahl;  brothers-in-law: Zak, Alfred, John and Bill Hamberg; sisters-in-law: Ann Grindlund, Mae Maidment and Erma Hoglund; and step-brothers-in-law: Berdean Knutson and Ralph and Elmer Martini.
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Robbinsdale - Beatrice Wick of Robbinsdale, passed away on Monday, June 26, 2017 at North Memorial in Robbinsdale, with her loving family at her side at the age of 94 years, 11 months and 12 days.
    Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service with Reverend John Voelker officiating. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Thief River Falls.
    Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
    Beatrice “Betty” Adella Thompson was born on July 14, 1922 in Grygla, to Randolph and Sophia (Hilton) Thompson. She was baptized and confirmed in Grygla. She attended and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.
    On February 28, 1942 Betty was married to Elmer Martin Wick in Grygla. The couple made their home in Michigan, where their children Brian, Sharon and Kathy were born. They moved back to Minneapolis in 1960. She worked for many years at Dayton’s Department Store in Downtown Minneapolis, and retired in 1987.  
    Betty enjoyed reading the newspaper, watching TV (mostly game shows), family outings, vacations and was an avid Twins fan. Betty was also a two time breast cancer survivor.
    She is survived by her children Sharon Keller and Kathy Lindgren; grandchildren Kim (Jason) Hazard, Brent Wick, Amy Lindgren, Sarah (Matt) Berkowitz; Great-Grandchildren Bret (Robin) Keller, Nick (Andrea)  Ketola, Kyrstyn Ketola, Kalee Hazard, Zoe Lindgren, Ethan Lindgren-Geigel; Great-Great-Grandchild Marissa Keller Desselier, along with many nieces and nephews.
    Betty is preceded in death by her husband Elmer Wick; Son Brian Wick; Parents Randolph and Sophia Thompson; Brothers Richard Thompson and Clifford (Margaret) Thompson; Sisters Mildred (Matt) Wick, Corinne (Conrad) Haugen, Eleanor Thompson, and Marion (Charles) Rustvold.
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Holt - Larry Inman of Holt, passed away at the age of 75 on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at his residence.
    Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 6, 2017 at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt, with Rev. Cathie Rhodes officiating.  Interment will follow at the Holt Cemetery, Holt.
    Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls. Visitation will also take place one hour prior to the funeral service on Thursday at the church.
    Larry Alonzo Inman was born on January 25, 1942 in Thief River Falls, the son of Alonzo Inman and Lida (Monson) Inman. He was baptized and confirmed at Nazareth Lutheran Church in Holt. Larry attended elementary school in Holt and graduated in 1960 from Newfolden High School in Newfolden.
    Following high school Larry proudly served in the Minnesota National Guard from 1960 until 1966.
    On July 3, 1966 Larry was united in marriage to Shirley Fuller at Silver Creek Church, rural Thief River Falls. Together they made their home and raised their children on the farm that he bought from his grandparents.
    Larry worked for the USDA as a poultry inspector/grader for Northern Pride in Thief River Falls.  He retired in 2003. Larry also farmed small grains and raised beef and dairy cattle.
    Larry enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren. Larry was an avid basketball fan – never missing a game. He always had a team of horses on the farm for work and play. He enjoyed coffee in the morning at the Newfolden Café and the Co-op. For many years Larry played cards on Wednesday nights with the guys.
    Larry was a lifetime member of Nazareth Lutheran Church, serving on the church council.  He also served on the school board in Newfolden. He delivered Meals on Wheels in the Holt and Newfolden areas.
    Larry is survived by his wife, Shirley of Holt; children, Tami Inman of Thief River Falls, Ronald (Paula) Inman of Brooklyn Park, Wendy (Aaron) Baldwin of Holt, Kim (Kyle) Nelson of Oklee; grandchildren, Owen and Halle Baldwin, Rylee and Reagan Inman, and Madelynn and Malaya Nelson; brothers and sisters, Richard Inman, David (Peggy) Inman, Christie (Stuart) Anton, Lana Inman, and Joy Inman; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Herb (Judy) Fuller, Ray (Mary) Fuller, Donna (Richard) Parnow, Gail Holmes, and James Fuller; many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.
    He is preceded in death by his infant son; his parents; and brother-in-law, Steve Holmes.
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Greenbush - Avamay Wyone (Kopecky) Bakken, aged 63, known as Ava to most and May to a special few, went home to God on Monday, June 19, 2017 after a struggle with cancer. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her children.
    There will be a visitation on Thursday, July 6, 2017 from 2-4 p.m. with a service from 4-5 p.m. at Rochester Cremation Services in Rochester.
    Ava was born in Greenbush in 1953 to Adolph and Eva (Staie) Kopecky. She graduated from Park High School in Racine, WI in 1971. In December of that same year, she married her soul-mate, Michael Perry Bakken. Together they had seven children for whom they provided a home full of faith, love, and laughter.
    Ava was a warm, gifted, and witty woman who was the heart of her family. Her comforting presence, many talents in cooking, baking and crafting, and her great love of music, dancing, and laughter turned any of their many dwellings over the years into a real home.
    Ava could make a meal of even modest ingredients seem like a feast, and transformed even the most frugal Christmas her family spent into a favorite, cherished holiday and memory. She welcomed everyone at her table, and, over the years, shared her home with various family members, friends, and even some strangers who became family in short time.
    Ava was a gifted writer and wonderful storyteller whose frequent letters to friends and family kept them in absolute stitches. Even amid her long struggles with mental illness which began in her late 30s, she maintained her particular sense of humor, which often surfaced suddenly and was a great comfort to those who knew her.
    Avamay is preceded in death by her father, Adolph, and her son, David. She is survived by her love, Michael Bakken; her mother, Eva Miller; five siblings: Calvin Kopecky, DeAnne Hanson, Beverly Kopecky, Michelle Harmoning, and Debbie Kopecky; six children: Sherilee Bakken, Melanie (Michael) McCarty, Natalie Bohrer, Katrina Bakken, Amanda (Adam) Potter, and Michael Bakken Jr.; and her 10 grandchildren, who were among the greatest joys of her life.
    To share condolences and especially memories and stories about Ava which are of great comfort to her family, please visit her memorial page on Facebook.
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Betty J. Wold    
    Thief River Falls -  Betty Wold of Thief River Falls, passed away on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at the Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls.
    Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017 at the Johnson Funeral Chapel in Thief River Falls with Kent Hudson officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.  Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls following a time of lunch and fellowship.