Warren - Mary Pederson, 61, of Warren, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017, in Thief River Care Center, Thief River Falls.
    Memorial Service will be held Friday, January 27, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Warren. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Warren.
    Mary Maurstad was born on October 11, 1955, in Karlstad, to Maurice D. and Irene B. (Swanson) Maurstad. She was raised in Warren, where she attended Warren High School.
    On March 16, 1974, she was united in marriage to Mark L. Pederson. The couple made their home in Warren. Early in life Mary worked at the local nursing home as a CNA and also as a Bookkeeper. In her earlier years she loved to dance, fish, and go camping.
    Mary’s calling in life was caring for others. She was very passionate about this aspect of her life. In Mary’s mid-30’s she encountered numerous medical challenges, despite this, Mary’s spirit rarely faltered. Although Mary faced many medical challenges throughout her life, her determination to care for her children was exceptional. She could always be counted on to show the motherly affection that came so naturally to her. Often phone calls and visits from one of her family was centered on their concerns and not her own. Mary truly was thankful for all she had and always did her best to put family first.
    Mary was never kept from enjoying her life. She enjoyed listening to music, the beauty of flowers, bird watching, and playing cards with family and friends.
    In her final years at the Care Center, Mary was able to return to her true calling in life, caring for others. She would often make the “rounds” in her scooter, checking on her fellow residents and making sure their needs were being met. Mary was well known at the Care Center for notifying staff if any of her fellow residents required assistance. Mary truly enjoyed being able to serve others in whatever way she was able.
    Mary was very proud of her children and grandchildren. When given the opportunity, she would often share the stories of their accomplishments with others.
    Mary is survived by her children, Joey (Julie) Pederson of East Grand Forks, Jenny (Chris) Schulz of Euclid, and Cassie (Jorge) Maurstad of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Kelsi, Tucker, Aaden, and Jessica; great-grandchildren, Allize and Otto; siblings, Herb (Jackie) Maurstad, David (Annette) Maurstad, Bev Niedzielski, and Betty Johnson; and former spouse, Mark L. Pederson.
    She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Bernice Peters Kostrzewski, Berdell Dunworth; and niece, Sara Maurstad.

Thief River Falls - Mary Bernadette “Bernie” Swedenburg Swanson died peacefully at her home on Saturday January 21, 2017 with her husband, and family by her side.
    Celebration of Life for Bernie Swanson will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 26, 2017 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Thief River Falls, with Father Rick Lambert presiding. Burial will be held at St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Thief River Falls.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls.
    Bernie was born on August 10, 1947 in Kenmare North Dakota, to her loving parents Donald and Dorothy “Dottie” (Rowe) Swedenburg. This is where her story begins.
    At the age of nine, Bernie and her family moved to Thief River Falls where she attended elementary School at St. Bernards and later graduated from Lincoln High School.
    On November 1, 1963, at the young age of 16, Bernie married the love of her life Leslie “Les” Swanson. Les and Bernie had four children: Tim Swanson of Thief River Falls, Antoinette “Tonie” (Mike) Scheef of Warroad, Travis (Kirsten) Swanson of Gwinner, ND and Stef (Dennis) Youngberg of Askov.  Bernie loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. The best gift for Bernie was to have her family at home, laughing and telling stories.
    Bernie had several jobs including working at Arctic Cat, Corner Drug and Amoco.  She was often found at Amoco having a cigarette with her customers and while at Corner Drug.  She enjoyed the company of long time friend Laurel Swanson.
    When the kids were young, much family time was spent at the Buzzle cabin. Mom would always say she didn’t like Buzzle too much, but the pictures and memories of her children would contradict that statement. She loved to talk about the mice playing at the end of the bed!
    Bernie loved to spend the summers at Lake of the Woods and did so for many years. She was an avid fisher, but would never touch her catch, eat her catch or bait her own hook! She loved spending time in the boat, occasionally at the wheel giving Les a chance to catch a few. She also enjoyed swimming, cross-stitching, reading and playing electronic Yahtzee and playing on Facebook.
    Bernie is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 52 years, Leslie; her four children, Tim, Tonie, Travis and Stef; grandchildren Zachary (Travis) Swanson of Kansas City, Alicia Dykes of Overland Park, KS, Devin, Danica, and Danae Scheef all of the Fargo/Moorhead area,  Dylan, Aydan and Keagan Swanson of Gwinner, ND and Reace and Shaw Youngberg of Askov; one great grandson, Collin Dykes of Overland Park, KS. Bernie is also survived by her sisters Denise (Gubby) Lane, Patty (David) Carlson and Jackie Hamre, all of Thief River Falls, along with many nieces, nephews, brothers- and sisters- in-law.
    Bernie is preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Dorothy Swedenburg; her infant sister, Donna Swedenburg; and her brother, Spec. 4 Robert “Bobby” Swedenburg.
    A special thank you to her sister, Denise, for coming to see her every day.  Some may think that this is the end of her story, however it is not.  Bernie’s  story will continue in the stories and memories shared by all who loved her and by the way her children and grandchildren continue her legacy.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
 

Helen F. Manning, 84
    Fergus Falls - Mrs. Eugene (Helen) Manning, 84, of Fergus Falls, died Saturday, January 21, 2017, at PioneerCare in Fergus Falls.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 30, 2017, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls, with Reverends Tom Peterson and Jake Anderson officiating.
    Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 29, 2017, at Olson Funeral Home, with a public prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will resume one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.
    Interment will be held at  Bethlehem Cemetery, Fergus Falls.
    
Frances Parsley, 95   
    Thief River Falls - Frances Parsley of Thief River Falls, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2017 at the Thief River Care Center at the age of 95.
    Memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Thief River Falls, with Larry Mogen officiating.  A luncheon will follow at Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls.

Kermit L. Magnuson, 90    
    Foley - Kermit Leon Magnuson, 90, of Foley, and formerly of the Middle River and Newfolden communities, passed away Friday afternoon, January 20, 2017, at Heritage of Foley Nursing Home, Foley.  Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. Friday, January 27, at First Lutheran Church in Middle River with Pastor Robert Dahlen officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the Middle River American Legion Post #444 and the Minnesota National Guard Honor Guard. Visitation will be from noon on Friday at the church until the time of services. Interment will be in Brandstrom Cemetery near Middle River in the Spring.

Norman Adams, 74
     Goodridge - Norman Adams, 74, Goodridge,  lost his battle with lung cancer on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017 at Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls, with his family at his side.
     Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Goodridge, with Father Rick Lambert presiding.  Burial will follow at the Bohemian Cemetery, Star Township, Pennington County.
 

Goodridge -Norman Adams, 74, of Goodridge lost his battle with lung cancer on January 22, 2017 at Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls, MN with his family at his side.
    Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Goodridge with Father Rick Lambert presiding.  Burial will follow at the Bohemian Cemetery, Star Township, Pennington County. Visitation will be held from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service led by Father Adam Hamness, on Friday, January 27, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN. Visitation will also be held from 9:30 -10:30 a.m. on Saturday at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.
    Norman Elroy Adams was born in Reynolds, ND on August 7, 1942, the oldest child of James Arthur and Margaret (Elaine) (Bronken) Adams. He grew up in that area, working on the family farm, and he graduated from Reynolds Public School in 1960.
    After school, he moved to East Grand Forks and worked for Minnesota Dairy and McKinnon Distributing.  He met Marie Kotrba there, and they were married October 16, 1965. Daughter Jodi was born in 1968. In 1972, they bought Marie’s aunt Tillie Eliason’s farm in Goodridge, and moved there in April.  Daughter Jami was born in August the same year.  Son Darin was born in 1974. Norm lived at the farm until his death.  
    Norm was known for his joking personality, his love of western novels and movies, and his passion for farming.  He broke ground for fields on his entire farm, and he always focused on being a good steward of the land.  He loved old-time farm equipment, but especially John Deere tractors. Over many years he amassed a collection of 23 working tractors.  He frequently attended the Steam Thresher’s Reunion in Rollag, and was a collector of all things John Deere.  Ironically, his favorite color was red, which is shown on all outbuildings on the farm, often as a red diamond on a white background, or vice versa.
    For decades, to supplement his farm income, he worked as a seasonal truck driver for grain and sugar beets or spraying, with employers to include Horachek Brothers Trucking, RTD Spraying, and Hammerlin Farms. He worked at Arctic Cat, Cenex Fertilizer Plant and Kelly DeWulf Farms. He also owned his own semi-tractor/trailer rig, trucking small grains and sunflowers through the winter months.  He had a soft spot for horses, cats and dogs, and “fussed” with them often. He was a long time member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Goodridge and had served on the Star Township Board.
    Norman is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Marie; children Jodi (husband Jim Bolen), Jami (husband Dave Krick); grandson Samuel (Jami), and his son Darin (significant other Rose Przybylski).  He is also survived by his siblings Margaret (husband Eugene Beitz; children Daniel, Kathleen, Thomas, James, Kristy, Dennis, Kari and their families), Lyle (wife Linda; children Renae, Steven and Dawn and their families), Karen (husband Steve Schumacher, son David), and William “Bill”(wife Holly, daughter Kayla, and son Trace).  
    He is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.  
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
 

Washougal, Wash. - Adeline H. Beaucage, age 83, Washougal Washington passed away peacefully on January 8, 2017, with her sons by her side.
    A memorial service was held Friday, January 20 at Zion Lutheran Church in Camas, WA, with Paster Tom Tweed officiating. Burial services will be held June 17 at 2:00 p.m. at LOM Lutheran Cemetery South of Petersburg, ND, with a Norwegian “little lunch” to follow. Burial services will be officiated by Paster Valerie Teppo.
    Adeline is survived by her three loving sons Jesse, Tim and Chris; her two brothers Gerald and Carl; her grandchildren Catlin, Kiah, Mackenzie, Tristen, Joshua, Mikayla, Taylor, Isabella and her great-grandchild Kingston.
    Daughter of Carl and Nora Morkrid, Adeline was born on November 15, 1933 in Larimore, ND.
    Adeline attended public school in Petersburg, ND and later attended Business college in Grand Forks, ND. Adeline was employed by Boeing Aircraft Company as a stenographer and clerical assistant while living in Seattle near her Aunt Liz. Living in Seattle was a magical time in Adeline's life, she was always very close to her Aunt Liz.
    Adeline later married David Beaucage and eventually moved to Thief River Falls, to be closer to her then retired farming family. Adeline was a devoted mother who gave all she could to her children. Years later Adeline lived in Ohio, closer to her eldest son (Jesse) and lived very well for several years. She then moved to the Pacific Northwest for the last 13 years of her life.
    Mom’s time in the Pacific Northwest was arguably the best years of her life. “Addy” as she came to be known in her assisted living, loved visiting friends, her church, Zion Lutheran and always enjoyed wine and coffee with friends. Addy’s family was always the most important part of her life. Mom will always be missed by those who knew her.
    She was a genuine lady with patience and caring that was as steady as a warm breeze in July. She loved and acted bravely all through her life. She passed with dignity of a life that was well lived.
    We will all miss her so very much. Goodbye Mom….. see you again someday…..
 

Thief River Falls - Ronald L. Ellingson 86, of Thief River Falls, passed away at his rural Thief River Falls home on Friday, January 27, 2017.
    Memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 31, 2017  at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls with Reverend John Voelker officiating.
    Ronald Leland Ellingson was born November 29, 1930 at Edinburg, ND son of Willis and Blenda (Junggren) Ellingson. Blenda passed away when Ronald was 2 and Willis remarried Ida Frovarp.  He was raised and attended school in Edinburg, ND graduating in 1948.
    He entered the US Air force in 1949 and served until his honorable discharge as a Staff Sargent in 1953. On September 2, 1956 he was united in marriage to J. Darlene Gudmundson in Grand Forks, ND.
    To this union two daughters were born, Kim and Ronda. They lived in Grand Forks at the UND Student Housing while Ron was attending Engineering school at UND. He graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1961.
    Ron was employed by the US Army Corp of Engineers, they lived in various parts of Iowa and South Dakota. In 1964 he went to work for Sorenson Construction Company in Fargo, ND. In 1969 they moved to Grand Forks where Ron was employed at Swingen Construction until retiring in 1998.
    In July of 1988 Darlene passed away, Ron continued to live in their home in Grand Forks until 1998 when he moved to be near family in Thief River Falls.
    Ron became an accomplished cabinet maker in his retirement, he enjoyed golfing and working in the yard. He was past member of the Optimist Club, Eagles Club, DAV, past officer of the Valley Golf Club, was an avid member of the Thief River Falls Golf Club and a member of the Thief River Falls American Legion.
    He is survived by his daughters Kim (Scott) Philipp of Yucca, AZ and Ronda (Special Friend Mark Sullivan) Sangrait of Thief River Falls; grandchildren Barret (Kendrah) Germundson, Dallas (Briana) Germundson, Chasity Sangrait, Pepper (Chris) Moen, Sara (Kyle) Beger, Beth (Fiance Jared Peterick) Philipp; great-grandchildren Hope, Abbi Jo, Kyleigh, Jesse, Gracie, Luca, Glorie, Zack, Lily, Logan, Bjorn, and Knox. Brother Clyde (Roselea) Ellingson of Park River, ND, several nieces and nephews and his four legged companions Jazz and Autumn.
    Ron is preceded in death by his wife, parents, and his brother Boyd.

Thief River Falls - Helen Margaret Kalinoski passed away peacefully January 26, 2017, at the age of 91, after a brief illness at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks with her family at her side.
    Mass of Christian Burial  was held Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenbush, with Father Lou Buiton officiating. Interment was at St. Aloysius Church Cemetery in Leo.
    Helen, the daughter of the late Harry and Angela (Pawlisak) Kulchyski, was born on Oct. 23, 1925, in Woodmore, Manitoba, Canada.  She attended a one room school house and completed high school at St. Mary’s Academy in Winnipeg, Manitoba. 
    Following graduation  in 1943, she was employed in Winnipeg.  It was at this time she was persuaded to attend teachers training to get her certificate to teach as there was a teacher shortage during wartime.  She taught in a one room school in rural Dauphin, Manitoba, for two years. 
    Helen was united in marriage to Clem Kalinoski on Oct. 26, 1948 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Leo.  They farmed and raised their family in Polonia Twp. in the Leo community.  She was active in church activities, serving on parish council and president and secretary of the Holy Rosary Society for many years.  She was currently a member of Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenbush. 
    Helen was a very active member for over sixty years in the American Legion Auxiliary serving in many leadership positions.  Following her husband’s death in 2000, Helen continued to live on the farm till 2015 and them became a resident of Valley Home Assisted Living in Thief River Falls.  She had a wide variety of interest in her life as well as enjoying nature’s beauty. 
    Helen baked and decorated cakes for weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions.  She enjoyed card playing, gardening, and scrapbooking and had one for each of her grandchildren.  She and Clem made a trip to the Holy Land and Rome in 1975 and in 2013 Helen made a trip to Poland.  She was very proud of her Polish heritage and could speak Polish very fluently.
    She is survived by her daughter: Kathleen (Harry) Sierota, of Scottsdale, AZ;  son: Greg (Barb), of Thief River Falls, David (Peggy), Michigan, ND, and Wayne, of Stephen;  brother: Ed (Margaret), of St. Malo, Manitoba;  grandchildren: Jessie Kalinoski, Cory Kalinoski, Ryan Wagner, Rachel (Cody) Metcalf, Ryan Kalinoski, Stacia Kalinoski, Sara Kalinoski, Michael Kalinoski, MD, Thomas Kalinoski, MD, and great-grandson: Jaxon Kalinoski. 
    She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister: Victoria.
    In lieu of flowers, Helen’s family prefers memorials to  the St. Aloysius Church Cemetery fund. Arrangements with Collins Funeral Homes of Greenbush, Karlstad & Middle River. Online guest book is available at www.collinsfunerals.com
 

Thief River Falls - Mathilda Sund, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday January 14, 2017 at Valley Elder Care Center in Grand Forks, ND with her loving grand-daughter, Andrea Dahlen and her husband, Tanner Dahlen at her side.
    Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Wes Langaas officiating.  Interment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Thief River Falls.
    Mathilda Sund was born at home on the family farm in Highlanding Township, Pennington County, on August 6, 1929 to Evan J and Marie Christine (Sedig) Sund. She was baptized into the Lutheran Faith and attended school in Highlanding.
    Mathilda lived in Thief River Falls, then moved to Akron, OH and lived there several years. She returned to Thief River Falls in 1972 and lived there until the last six years. From then on she moved into her daughter Linda's family home. She lived there until she moved to a memory care facility, then she transitioned to a nursing home.
    Mathilda was employed as a waitress and cook for many years. She was a dedicated employee at Northwestern Medical Center in Thief River Falls for 15 plus years. Mathilda loved working in her garden and working around her flower beds. She loved cooking and baking and having coffee and sweets with family and friends.
    She enjoyed making quilts for her grandkids and she always loved to take pictures to capture memories of her loved ones. But most of all she loved her pride and joy - her daughter, Linda and her two grand-daughters, Angela and Andrea. In recent years she became a very proud great-grandma to Talon and Brynden.
    Mathilda was a strong, independent, loving, caring, and generous woman who loved to laugh, smile, and take care of people.
    She is survived by her daughter, Linda Sund of Grand Forks, ND; two grandchildren, Angela (Travis) Carpenter of Oxnard, CA, and Andrea (Tanner) Dahlen of East Grand Forks; two great-grandchildren, Talon and Brynden Carpenter; two brothers, Orvin Sund and Martin Sund of Thief River Falls, and many other relatives and friends.
    She is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Gladys Olson, Sophie Rambeck, and Mable Hayes; brothers, Evan Floyd, James Sund, and baby brother, Barent Sund; and a great- grandchild, baby Dahlen.
    Family condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
 

Thief River Falls - Troy Timchuk of Thief River Falls passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND.
    Visitation will be held on Monday, January 30, 2017 from 1 - 3 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls and a graveside service at 3:15 p.m. will be  held at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls. Please join the family for lunch and fellowship at the funeral home following the graveside service.
    Troy Douglas Timchuk was born September 13, 1979 at Thief River Falls, son of Bruce and Linda (Carlson) Timchuk. Troy lived in Thief River Falls until the age of 10, in California until the age of 16, then moved back to Thief River Falls.
    Troy was in a snowmobile accident at the age of 18 and suffered a traumatic brain injury. He moved to Duluth where he lived in a group home and received his High School Diploma. Troy had various jobs while living in Duluth and returned to Thief River Falls in his late 20s. He worked at Custom Products until his ill health forced him to retire.
    Troy enjoyed his family and visiting with friends. As a young boy he enjoyed fishing, camping, playing cards, drawing, road trips, watching Price is Right with his mother and sporting events.
    Troy is survived by his mother Linda Timchuk of Thief River Falls; father Bruce (Joanie) Timchuk of Web City, MO; grandmother
Eleanore (Jimmy) Halvorson of Karlstad, siblings Missy (Bryan) Swart of Williams, Kristie (special friend Byron Kelly) Hermanson of Thief River Falls, Jessica (special friend Keith Moen) Houle of Thief River Falls; nieces and nephews Kelsey, Toni, Brandon, Tyler and Savanna along with many cousins, aunts and uncles.
    He is preceded in death by his grandparents Mike and Mary Timchuk and Bruce Carlson, and girlfriend Jillian Pless.
 

Brooks - Patricia Ann Johnson, 79, of Brooks, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at her rural Brooks, Residence.
    Memorial service will be held Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Oklee, with Reverend Margaret Jacobus officiating.  Burial will be at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery, Oklee. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
 

Melvin Hagen, 95    
    Thief River Falls - Melvin Hagen, formerly of Grygla, age 95, died Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Thief River Care Center, Thief River Falls. Funeral service pending with Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls.

David Miller, 69   
    Viking - David Miller, 69, of Viking, died on Friday, February 3, 2017 at his residence with his loving family.
    The funeral to celebrate his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 10, 2017 at New Hope Lutheran Church in Newfolden, with Pastor Ollie Urdahl officiating. Burial will be at the Viking Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral.

Phyllis Wickland, 96    
    Phyllis Wickland passed away Monday, February 6, 2017. Funeral services will be held Friday, February 10, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with visitation one hour prior to the funeral.

Myrtle Stromberg, 97    
    Erskine - Synneva Myrtle (Furuseth) Stromberg, 97, died Thursday, February 2, 2017 at Pioneer Memorial Care Center, Erskine.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.

Archie Schneider, 75    
    McIntosh - Archie Schneider, 74, of McIntosh, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, February 5, 2017 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND.

Gail W. Boice, 72
    
    Thief River Falls - Gail Boice, 72, of Thief River Falls, died suddenly on Friday, February 10, 2017 at Sanford Hospital in Thief River Falls.
    Memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Thief River Falls, with Father Rick Lambert presiding. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service led by Rev. Sheila Michaels, on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls.  
    Gail William Boice was born on November 28, 1944 in Milbank, SD the son of Burdette and Gladys (Hills) Boice. He was baptized at the Marvin Baptist Church.  He graduated from South Shore High School in South Shore, SD. Following high school, Gail entered into service with the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Grand Forks, ND, Tucson, AZ, Denver, CO and did two tours in Vietnam.  Gail was Honorably Discharged.
    On June 5, 1966, Gail was united in marriage to Sandra Nord at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Plummer. To this union came eight children, Martin, George, Sheila, Dawn, Teresa, LeRoy, Della, and Jason. The family made their home in Red Lake Falls where Gail was very active in church and community.
    Gail was a mechanic at Falls Equipment in Red Lake Falls where he later owned and operated the business. It was later known as RLF Equipment Inc.  Following the closing of the business, Gail attended UND Aviation where he became an Instrumental Flight Instructor. After UND he taught aviation at the Thief River Falls Airport.  From 1989-1994, Gail worked as an airline pilot for TWA in St. Louis, MO.  Gail then went to work as the general manager at Falls Diesel.  Gail was a Technical Writer at Arctic Cat for ten years and then retired for a short time before returning in a part time capacity. Gail’s love for people brought him back to work.
    On December 28, 2013, Gail was united in marriage to Patricia Jordan in East Grand Forks. The couple resided in Thief River Falls.
    Gail had a tremendous sense of humor, had the gift of gab, was known to elaborate on one or two stories and knew how to spin a tale.  He was a beloved friend who had a huge heart and loved people.  He was an extremely hard worker and also liked to play. He was passionate about cooking, spending time outdoors, riding his Harleys, being at the hunting cabin, feeding the birds, camping, traveling, fishing on Lake Of The Woods. Gail loved his country and loved to honor fellow veterans by serving on the Minnesota Patriot Guard.  
    Survivors include his loving wife Tricia of Thief River Falls; children, Martin (Terri) Boice of Clinton, UT, George (Blanca) Boice of Warroad, Sheila Michaels of Thief River Falls, Dawn (Paul) Nelson of Dalton, Teresa (David) Haugen of Plummer, LeRoy (Roxanne Iverson) Boice of Thief River Falls, Della Boice of Grand Forks, ND, and Jason Boice of Red Lake Falls; mother of his children, Sandra Boice of Crookston; grandchildren, Jeromy, Amber, Josh, Jordan, Scott, Jordan, Sarah, Mariah, Paige, Shania, Shelby, Lora, Zach, Amy, Amber, Tyler, Wyatt, Logan, Dawson and Tucker; great-grandchildren, Payten, Billy, and one on the way in April; brothers, David (Marjorie) Boice, Clarence (Shirley) Boice and Duane (Lois) Boice; and many other relatives and friends.
    He is preceded in death by his parents.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
    Military honors will be provided by the Ecklund-Holmstrom American Legion Post 117, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2793, Minnesota National Guard Honor Guard & the Minnesota Patriot Guard
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Archie Schneider, 75
    
    McIntosh - Archie Schneider, 75, of McIntosh, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, February 5, 2017 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks.
    Archie was born on December 31, 1941 in Thief River Falls, to Joe and Helen Schneider. Archie was a 1960 Lincoln High School graduate and all-star hockey player for the Prowlers. He was married to Marcia Houfek from 1961 to 1978, and together they had one daughter and four sons.
    Archie was currently married to Judy Owen, and they were best friends in love since 1981.
    He worked as a licensed Journeyman Plumber in Rochester for several years before pursuing a long-time career in car sales.
    Archie is survived by his wife, Judy Schneider; sons, Scott (Cathy), Eric (Emily), Shawn (Megan), Chad (Lisa); daughters, Kim (Brian) Gerardy, Jill (Corey) Perryman; grandchildren Rory, Tyler, Dylan, Cole, Camden, Calleigh, Kyla, Hudson, Cassidy, Connor, Samantha, Amber (Kelcie), Zach (Haeli), Breanne (Chris), Dillon, and Tanner; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Dave (Veronica) Schneider; and one niece and four nephews.
    He is preceded in death by his daughter, Kristin; father, Joe Schneider; mother, Helen Forsberg; and brother, Les.
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Myrtle Stromberg, 97
    
    Erskine - Synneva Myrtle (Furuseth) Stromberg, 97, died Thursday, February 2, 2017 at Pioneer Memorial Care Center, Erskine. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at 2 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Service, 420 LaBree Ave, in Thief River Falls. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
    Myrtle was born December 7, 1919 in Gully, the daughter of Peder Furuseth and Johanna (Fladeland) Furuseth.
    She was baptized and confirmed at Gully Lutheran Church. In 1933 the family moved to Thief River Falls where there was more opportunity. She later graduated from Lincoln High School in 1937. She then attended and graduated from Interstate Business School in Fargo, ND.
    Myrtle met Willard Stromberg and they were married on February 11, 1943. They resided in Thief River Falls. Willard worked on the Soo Line Railroad.
    Myrtle is remembered as a witty, caring, funny, creative, and intelligent person. She was fun to be around. Her storytelling, the skits she wrote, and her many jokes are treasured memories for the family. She enjoyed handicrafts including, upholstering, sewing, knitting, and crocheting. She was fearless in applying her talents. The family traveled with a camp trailer every summer and especially enjoyed Glacier National Park and British Columbia. Myrtle and Willard also traveled to Taiwan, Norway, and Mexico.
    Survivors include daughter, Barbara (David) Klopp and their children, Ingrid (Anthony) Mello, Evan Klopp, and Kirsten (Clint) Berglof; son, Mark (Gale) Stromberg and their children, Kajsa (David) Van de Riet, Bjorn (Yoshiko) Stromberg, and Carl Stromberg; and son Lynn (Nora) Stromberg and their daughter, Isabella Stromberg; great-grandchildren, Anna Mello, Joe Mello and Kajsa Berglof.  Also surviving her is her sister, Ethel Walker, sisters-in-law Millie Furuseth, Marlis Furuseth, Cleo Furuseth, and Vivian Gable and many nieces and nephews.
    She is preceded in death by her parents, Peder & Johanna; husband Willard, and sisters Pearl Helgenset, Evelyn Walsh, Nobelle Garr and brothers Paul Furuseth, Leonard Furuseth, Norman Furuseth and Jerry Furuseth, sisters-in-law Wylma Radniecki and Iris Furuseth; brothers-in-law Casmier “Cobb” Radniecki and Joe Gable, Ernest Helgenset, Richard Walsh and Marcel Garr.
    Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Phyllis Wicklund, 96
    
    Thief River Falls - Phyllis Wicklund of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 6, 2017 at Sanford Hospital in Thief River Falls, with her loving family at her side, at the age of 96.
    Funeral services were held Friday, February 10, 2017 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Ale Tulu officiating. Interment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Thief River Falls.
    Phyllis Zona Scott was born on October 15, 1920 in East Lake Lillian Township, Kandiyohi County, Minnesota. She was the fourth of nine children born to Mearl Scott and Helga (Lundbom) Scott.
    She grew up on the farm and attended Riverside School, District #89 in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota. She graduated from high school in Atwater.
    As a child she enjoyed drawing pictures, reading, and writing poetry. She started sewing doll clothes on her mother’s old treadle sewing machine when she was eight years old. When she got older she sewed dresses, blouses, skirts, and pajamas for herself and her sisters.
    Phyllis was married to Gene Wicklund on April 30, 1941. Gene was an engineer for Great Northern Railroad. They were divorced in 1968.
    During her married life Phyllis, with her husband and children, traveled in all but two states west of the Mississippi River plus Wisconsin and Michigan.
    Phyllis was active in the Auxiliary of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.  She served as president and as treasurer of the organization.
    Phyllis worked at bakeries in Fairmont, MN. For twenty years, Phyllis was the head cook at Valley Home in Thief River Falls.
    Phyllis started painting as a hobby in her late sixties.  At the county fair in Thief River Falls, Phyllis won many ribbons for her fine paintings. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, cooking holiday meals, sewing, and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
    Phyllis is survived by her children, Judy (John) Tesch of New Lisbon, WI, Zona (Neil) Brang of Thief River Falls, Denton (Judy) Wicklund of Delano, Kevin Wicklund of Thief River Falls, Weston Wicklund of Minnetonka, and Denise Wicklund of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Suzanne Tesch, Nicole (Mark) Antonenko, and Ryan (Penny) Brang, Eric Wicklund, Kyle (Julie Leffler) Wicklund, and Brandon (Brenda) Wicklund; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Billie (Donna Mae) Scott of Lake Lillian; many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
    She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Cameron Scott (infant) and Wayne (Lois) Scott; sisters, Muriel Scott (child), Dolores (Urban) Sester, Betty Lou (Eugene) Olson, Mavis Scott, and Sharon (Tom) Kostka.
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Melvin E. Hagen, 95
    
    Grygla - Melvin Edmund Hagen, 95, of Grygla, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2017 at the Thief River Care Center.
    Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2017 at Grace Lutheran Church, Grygla with Pastor Vicki Saude-Worthington officiating.
    Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 19, 2017 at Grace Lutheran Church, Grygla. Military honors provided by Thief River Falls Veteran of Foreign Wars Post #2793.
    Burial will be in the spring at Northwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the VFW or Northwood Cemetery.
    Melvin Edmund Hagen was born March 23, 1921 to Arne and Kornelia (Ostrem) Hagen at home in Northwood Township rural Grygla. He was baptized and confirmed at Northwood Church. He attended Hanson Grade School through eighth grade.  
    Melvin was a happy and wiry kid with a quick wit who liked playing pranks on his friends and neighbors. He enjoyed using a “speed bag” and playing catch with his brothers. He worked on the family farm leaving in 1938 to work with the Civilian Conservation Corps in the Cass Lake area. He enlisted in the Navy in 1941 and was part of the Normandy Invasion during WWII.  After being honorably discharged on January 23, 1946 he returned to the family farm.  
    Several years later, Melvin began work as a dragline and crane operator. He was employed by Industrial Builders of Fargo and Herb Holthusen Construction of Grygla. In July of 1958 while working on the Garrison Dam Project of ND, he contracted encephalitis which required several lengthy stays in area hospitals. The damaging effects of the illness made him less independent.  
    In 2013, Melvin was admitted to the Thief River Care Center. He received excellent care and enjoyed the good meals and frequent visits from family and friends.  
    Melvin is survived by two brothers Otto Hagen and Norris Hagen both of rural Grygla; one sister Miranda Skaaren of Bemidji; special friend Harriet Kiesow of Thief River Falls; numerous nieces and nephews.  
    Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Oscar Hagen; five sisters Inga Ulla, Clara Boe, Alma Svenpladsen, Benora Falk, and Lila Holthusen; nieces Elaine, Donna, Lillian, Marion; nephews Noralf, Odvin, Milo, and Paul; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
    Family condolences may be sent to www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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Thief River Falls - Orvin Sund, 80, of Thief River Falls, passed away on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at his home in Thief River Falls.
    Funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at 2 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Reverend Wesley Langaas officiating. Burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
    Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 from 5 - 8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Johnson Funeral Service and also one hour prior to the service on Thursday.
    Orvin Richard Sund was born August 19, 1936, son of Evan J and Marie Christine (Sedig) Sund at Highlanding. He attended rural school at Highlanding.
    On October 3, 1959 he was united in marriage to Patricia D.I. Granberg in Thief River Falls. The couple made their home in Thief River Falls where they raised their four children. Orvin was employed at Bridgeman’s Creamery in Thief River Falls until his retirement in 1997.
    Orvin enjoyed walking, hunting, fishing, camping, long road trips, and visiting his kids and grandkids.
    He is survived by his children Timothy Sund of Thief River Falls, Jeff Sund of Florida, Scot Sund of California and Dena (Ayron) Bell of Colorado; grandchildren Jordan Hasbrouck of Erskine, Cody Wendell of Thief River Falls, Ashley Rehder of Washington, Aaron Sund of Colorado, Samantha Sund of Hawaii, Stephanie (Adam) Smith of North Dakota, Rhys, Brady (Laura) and Emily Bell of Colorado. He is also survived by his brother Martin Sund of Thief River Falls, along with several nieces and nephews.
    He is preceded in death by his wife Patricia on August 30, 1997; parents; sisters, Gladys Olson, Sophie Rambeck, Mable Hayes and Mathilda Sund; brothers, Evan Floyd, James Sund, and baby brother, Barent Sund.
    Casketbearers are all of Orvin’s grandchildren.
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Thief River Falls - Orin Hunt passed away at Sanford Medical Center on February 11, 2017, at the age of 87 years, 11 months and 11 days.
    Funeral services were  held on Friday, February 17, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Middle River. Interment was  held at First Lutheran Cemetery in Middle River with military honors accorded by the Middle River American Legion Post #444 and the Minnesota National Guard Honor Guard.
    Orin Russell Hunt, the son of the late Harvey and Florence (Hoyme) Hunt, was born February 17, 1929, in rural Rock Lake, ND.  He was raised in and attended Virginal Country School.  He helped at home on the family farm until he was drafted into military service, entering the 375th Military Mounted Patrol on Jan. 21, 1951, and honorably discharged on January 22, 1953. 
    Orin was a lifetime member of the Middle River  American Legion Club.  Orin married Jean Lucille Ralph on April 1, 1955, at Salt Lake City, UT.  They moved to Anaconda, MT, and it is there Orin was employed in the Smelter Mines.  Orin and Jean  then moved to Chinook, MT, where Orin started his career working with GTA elevators. 
    In 1966, Orin was transferred to Middle River to become manager of the GTA elevator.  He managed this elevator for 16 1/2 years.  In 1983, Orin was given the opportunity to work with Wilber, Rocky and Nathan McFarlane to reopen the elevator in Lake Bronson. 
    Orin and Jean sold their home in Middle River and moved to Lake Bronson in 1984 and resided there until his retirement in 1991.  Working for GTA elevators provided Orin and Jean the chance to travel to conventions in Hawaii, Texas, Florida and Mexico City.  They found their retirement home in Newfolden; a small home along the river with plenty of lawn to mow, room for his birdfeeders and gardens and a single car garage to make his wood working shop. 
    Orin was not as totally ready for retirement as he thought, so he started driving tractor part-time for the peat farm on the outside of Newfolden.  He was very happy when he was humming along in his tractor, being early to rise to be sure his tractor was ready to roll for the day. 
    Jean passed away July 8, 2011, and Orin resided at Valley Home in Thief River Falls for the past 14 months.
    Orin is survived by three daughters: Emma (Dale) Brown and Florence (Jay) Nelson, both of Thief River Falls and Rhonda Gram, of Middle River;  grandchildren: Heather (Wayne) Garthus and their children, Cole, Jalen, Junior and Summer, of Holt,   Jessica Jarmin and daughter: Eden Rose, of Fargo, ND, Daniel and Cheryl Nelson, both of Thief River Falls, Cody Gram (Paige) and son Maverick, of Middle River;             sister-in-law: Anna Hunt, of Rock Lake, ND; in addition to several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
    He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, one son: Russell Wayne and one daughter: Rose Mary, both in infancy; son-in-law: Donn Harstad of Newfolden;      brothers: Bud, Pete, Jack, Swede, Jerry and Dick;  sisters: NonaBelle, Evelyn and     Myrna; and several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
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