SVNews2009

Norma Bernice Hillstead, 74
    Norma Bernice Hillstead, age 74, formerly of Wilson, WI, died Thursday, November 19, 2009, at Luther    Hospital, Eau Claire, WI.
    Norma was born on April 4, 1935, at Mondovi, WI, in Buffalo Twp., the daughter of Clarence and Clara (Hoff) Rognholt. She was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith and was presently a member of Christ the King, Lutheran Church, Wilson.
    Norma attended school in Boyceville, graduating from Spring Valley High in School in 1953. She worked at the Emporium in the Twin Cities. On February 11, 1956, Norma married Walter Hillstead at the Wilson Lutheran Church. She worked 35 years at Beatrice Hunt Wesson in Menomonie.
    Norma loved quilt making and collecting chickens. She also traveled in recent years to Alaska 3 times, Virginia Beach and Door County. She was an excellent cook, always putting on a feast. Norma wielded a nasty cane, being quite feisty at times and she was an avid bargain hunter.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband Walter; infant daughter Cindy Sue, who died in 1956; infant son Glenn, who died in 1960; 3 sisters: Harriette Mueller; Lucille LeBarne; Mildred Martell; and 3 brothers: Harold, Harland, and Conrad Rognholt.
    Survivors include 4 sons and 1 daughter: Gregory (Christine) Hillstead of Wilson; Cynthia (Tim) Stewart of Durand, Larry (Julie) Hillstead of Wilson, Robert Hillstead of Reeve, and Marcus Hillstead of Juneau, Alaska; 18 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren; 2 sisters: Lyla (Myron) Marlet, Knapp; Joanne PIttman, Reeve; 2 brothers: Lyman (Rose) Rognholt, Coon RapIds, MN; Rodney (Bonnie) Rognholt, Phoenix, Arizona; brothers-in-law: Albert Hillstead of Clear Lake and Ted Hillstead of Woodville; sister-in-law: Dorothy Froeschle of Wilson and Donna Rognholt of Boyceville; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
    Visitation was held from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, November 22 at Keehr Funeral Home. Funeral Services were Monday, November 23, 2009 at Christ the King Church, Wilson, WI with Rev. Leslie Johnson officiating. Music was provided by organist Nola Johnson. Burial was in Lone Pine Cemetery, Woodville, WI.
Honorary Bearers were Mary Hanson, Deborah Zoellner, Ruth Darling, Sherry Stafford, Lasey Rands, Jeremy Hilistead, James Hillstead, Eric Hillstead, Codie Jean Hillstead, Jamie Anderson, Rachel Albrecht, Jarred Hillstead, Aaron Hillstead.
    Bearers were Coy Hillstead, Travis Hillstead, Luke Hillstead, Brandon Hillstead, Steven Anderson, Daniel Hillstead.
Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.
Published in the Spring Valley Sun Argus

Jim Shafer, 62

James "Jim" Shafer, 62, Woodbury, died Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, at Augustana Health Care Center in Hastings, Minn.

Jim was born June 1, 1947, the son of Carl and Marie (Weber) Shafer in Spring Lake Township, St. Croix County, Wis. He was a graduate of Spring Valley High School, class of 1965. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1972.

Jim had an avid love for sports of all kinds, especially the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Wisconsin Badgers. Attending their games was one of his passions.

His love of the countryside was evidenced in his enjoyments of hunting and fishing. He was affectionately known as Jim "Bowie" to his hunting crew and El Paso friends.

He also enjoyed traveling, with Hawaii his favorite destination. His family and friends were of great importance. Jim's son, Sam, was the greatest joy of his life.

Jim had worked at 3M in St. Paul. He owned and operated The Levee Café for many years and also owned and operated Prime Cut Lawn Care Service in Woodbury.

Jim is survived by his son, Samuel, and ex-wife, Valerie Current, both of Cottage Grove, Minn.; one brother, Ron (Gladys) Shafer of Ellsworth; seven sisters, JoAnn Brenner of Hastings, Jean Nelson of Hastings, Judy (Doug) Harer of Cottage Grove, Mary (Mike) Casey of Ottertail, Minn., Lana (Richard) Anderson of Elm Grove, Wis., Bonnie (Ron) Drabowicz of Wauwatosa, Wis., and Kathleen (Terry) Shinn of Sarasota, Fla.; sister-in-law, Jean Shafer of Shorewood, Ill.; special friend Jim "Bowie" (Belinda) Foley; many other relatives and friends.

Honorary bearers were Joe Moore, Tom Elbert, Scott Brenner, Jerry Schurhammer, and Ross Keehr. Bearers were Jim Foley, Larry Brenner, Kevin Pechacek, Gary Bayer, Justin Drabowicz, Aric Carpenter.

Visitation was on Monday from 3-8 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley. Funeral service was at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Spring Valley, with Fr. Varkey Velickakathu and Br. Michael Mandernach officiating. Organist was Ellen Rominski and vocalists were the Sacred Heart Church Choir. Burial of cremated remains was in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery on Wednesday, Nov. 18.

Memorials are preferred for a scholarship fund for his son, Sam.

Published in the Pierce County Herald, Ellsworth, WI

Julie Seeley, 56, October 14, 2009
Julie was born on Oct. 2, 1953, in Baldwin, WI, to Harold and Dorothy (Aamodt) Olson. Julie was baptized

in Spring Valley and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church. She grew up in Eau Claire and graduated in 1972 from Eau Claire North High School and earned a Bachelor's degree in Business from UWEC in 1976.

Julie's passion was her family and especially her grandchildren. She spent many happy years in her daycare business and was an award-winning salesperson. Her time spent with her grandchildren was precious to her and a constant source of pride and joy. She also loved spending time with the family at the lake, where she will be remembered for her ready smile and sense of humor.

Julie was an accomplished doll maker, seamstress, and bowler and was a lifelong fan of "All My Children". She loved to play games. Her compassionate and loving nature was demonstrated through the extra care and support she provided to her beloved Mom and Dad.

She will be sadly missed by her dear children, Erica (Shawn) O'Gorman, Rebecca Seeley and Ryan Seeley; three grandchildren, Dylan, Olivia and Brooklyn; her parents, Harold and Dorothy Olson; brothers and sister, Steve (Debbie) Olson, Karen (Tom) Buelow, Chris (Diane) Olson and David (Robin) Olson; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many other family and friends.

Services for Julie were at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 1804 Highland Avenue, Eau Claire with Pastor Nate Aaseng officiating.

Visitation for family and friends was from 4-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, at Fuller-Speckien-Hulke Funeral Home, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, Wis. Visitation continued Tuesday morning at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of services. Committal services were to be at 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, Oct. 21, at the Gilman Lutheran Church Cemetery in Pierce County.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Friends may offer condolences online at www.fullerspeckien.com.

Julie was the "heart" of our family in many ways and we will cherish our many happy years with her. We move forward together knowing she is still with us in spirit through the grace of Jesus Christ.

Fuller Speckien Hulke Funeral Home, (715) 832-5002, assisted the family with the arrangements.

Published in the Pierce County Herald, Ellsworth, WI

Margaret Edith Hendrickson, 91 -October 1, 2009

Margaret Hendrickson passed away at home Thursday morning, October 1, 2009 surrounded by loving family members. She was born in Cady Township on November 15, 1917, to Norwegian immigrant parents Ole and Inga (Boe) Oare. She attended Cady Creek School. On May 30, 1940, Margaret married Olaf Hendrickson. They were married on the Oare home farm in Cady Township.

Together with Olaf, she farmed in the Town of Spring Lake. Margaret custom papered and painted for many people. For a number of years, she was a nursing assistant at the Spring Valley Nursing Home. Margaret served her community as a 4-H Leader, homemaker's club member, and Sunday School teacher. Her passion was knitting, quilting, and rug making. Over the years, she donated many of these items both locally and internationally. She wanted everyone to be warm. She enjoyed her Neighborhood Birthday Club for over 30 years. Margaret was a caring and nurturing Mother, Grandmother, neighbor and friend to many. She was baptized and confirmed at Wilson Lutheran Church and after marriage, Margaret became a faithful member of St. John's Lutheran Church. She was active in Ladies Aid, Circle, and Bible studies, quilting, greeting, altar guild and initiated the homemade baptismal candle program. She was a member of Valkyrien Lodge Sons of Norway and past member of Spring Valley Eastern Star.

She is survived by her seven children: Wayne (Ann) Hendrickson of New York City, NY; Janet Lomoljo of Reno, Nevada; Mary (Douglas) Thompson of River Falls, WI; Gordon (Barbara) Hendrickson of Clive, Iowa; Jerry (Bonnie) Hendrickson of Crivitz, WI; Thomas (Janet) Hendrickson of Hager City, WI; and Karen (Leroy) Esanbock of Baldwin, WI; twenty grandchildren: Kyrsten (James Phernetton) Thompson, Helen (Seth Hoffman) Hendrickson, Lisa (Charles) Dailey, Donald (Karina) Lomoljo, Inga (Dennis Jasso) Hendrickson, Eric Hendrickson, Anders (Marie) Hendrickson, Michael Lomoljo, Brian (Vivian) Hendrickson, Kaarin Thompson, Rosina Hendrickson, Adam (Becky) Esanbock, Karl Hendrickson, Amanda. Hendrickson, Amy (Josh) LaPointe, Luke Esanbock, Jacob Esanbock, Anna Esanbock, Aaron Esanbock, and Rachel Hendrickson; and seven greatgrandchildren: Daniel Lomoljo, Samantha Lomoljo, Ethan Hendrickson and Megan Hendrickson, Arol Thompson, Maria Hendrickson, and Alycin LaPointe; many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. She is also survived by her three sisters: Pearl Reed of Hudson, WI, Frances Gunderson of Spring Valley, WI, and Gladys Halderson of Montrose, MN.; sister-in-law: Betty Oare of Wayzata, MN.; and brother-in-law: Rev. Kenneth Helgesen of Aurora, CO. She was preceded in death by her husband Olaf Hendrickson, her parents, two sisters: Anna Koehler and Ethel Zimmer; and five brothers; Arthur, Clifford, Carl, Otto, and Gordon Oare.

Services were at St. John's Lutheran Church, Spring Valley on Monday, October 5, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. with visitation at the church on Sunday evening from 4-7 p.m., October 4. Rev. John Helgesen officiated and music was provided by organist Linda Anderson and vocalist Leroy Esanbock. Interment was in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley.

Margaret's grandchildren served as pallbearers.

Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled the arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun/Argus

Dr. Kenneth A. Ames, 77 - June 7, 1932 - Sept. 24, 2009
    Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at First United Methodist Church in St. Cloud for Kenneth Ames, who died on Thursday, September 24, 2009 at the St. Cloud Hospital. Visitation will be held one hour before the service. Arrangements were made by Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids.
    Ken was born June 7, 1932 to Kenneth E. and Dorothy (Chinnock) Ames. Most schooling through junior high was in country schools. He graduated from River Falls High School in 1949 and received his B.S. in English and History from UW-River Falls. He continued his education and received his Ed. D. in Counselor Education in 1965 from the University of Wyoming. His 32 year career in education encompassed public schools, University of Wyoming, Gonzaga University, and St. Cloud State University. After 13 years (1974-1987) as Dean, College of Education, SCSU, Ken suffered a severe stroke necessitating early retirement. He was honored as an educational leader at the Centennial of the UWRF on April 4, 1975.
    During college, Ken married Marilyn Stone. They became the proud parents of Carolyn and Glen. Their long marriage was an especially close partnership after his stroke in 1987. During that time, they served as co-presidents of St. Cloud Hospital’s Stroke Support Group, authored articles, and otherwise provided encouragement, inspiration and guidance for others. He continued to live life as fully as possible with Marilyn’s constant support, as well as family and friends.
    His lifelong interests included music, reading, horses, sports, writing poetry, and later years, leather carving. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was so proud of their children, Glen and Carolyn.
    Ken is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn of St. Cloud; son, Glen of Pullman, WA; and daughter, Carolyn (Bruce, daughters Heidi and Alyssa) Wolfe of Oregon City, OR. He is also survived by Candy Ames, Jan Ames, Rodney (Jane) Stone, Susan Erzen, Becky Staiger, Cindy (Kenny) Richards, and many other family members and friends.
    He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Robert and Roger; and his sister, Bonny Peskar. In Ken’s honor, memorials are preferred to SCSU Foundation.

Obituary and Guest Book available online at:
www.williamsdingmann.com

Williams Dingmann Funeral Homes

Logan Michael Jacobson
Logan Michael Jacobson, age, 19, of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died unexpectedly in a motor vehicle accident on Thursday, August 27, 2009, in Spring Lake township.

Logan was born on October 28, 1989, in Hudson, Wisconsin, to Michael and Heidi (Penman) Jacobson. He grew up on the Jacobson Family Farm in Spring Lake Township and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 2008. Logan was employed by Weiser Concrete.

   Logan's love of life was evident by the sparkle in his beautiful blue eyes and his quick grIn. He had a gift to make people laugh. He had a huge heart and was always there to lend a helping hand to any who needed it. Logan was at his happiest when he was getting his hands dirty, whether it was working or playing. He was able to find joy in the everyday things in life and was truly at home outside. Logan was an avid outdoorsman who loved deer hunting, fishing, farming, four-wheeling, snowmobiling and working on his many trucks. He spent most of his life working various farm jobs and loving every minute of it. Whatever Logan did, he did it "all the way" and with no regrets - it was all or nothing, for this bright young man who charmed and chatted his way into the hearts of all who knew him. He was well-loved and will never be forgotten.
    He was preceded In death by his Grandmother Delores Penman, Grandfather Gordon Penman, and 3 uncles: Jeffrey, Tommy and Gary Penman
    He is survived by his parents: Mike and Heidi (Penman) Jacobson of Spring Valley; 1 sister Jennie of Madison; 1 brother Austin of Spring Valley; his fiance' Ashley Langiewicz of Fridley, Minnesota; his grandparents: Bob and Lori Jacobson of Hudson; aunts and uncles: Deb (Jack) Marshall of Omaha, Nebraska; BrIan Jacobson of Spring Valley; Dennis Penman of St. Paul Park, Minnesota; LInda (DennIs) Smith of Cedarburg; JulIe (Jeff Bentoff) Penman of Milwukee; Mary (Roman) Tuler of Black River Falls; Robin Rose of Hudson; Tim (Jolene) Penman of Hudson; Terry Penman of Seeley; Cindy (Jeff) Jahnke of Minneapolis; Mark Penman of Seeley; Kim Penman of' Hudson; and Holly (Brian) Marrs of Hudson; Chiyoko Penman; Cindy Ferraro; many cousins, other relatives and great friends
    Memorial visitation was on Saturday from 4-8 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley. A memorial service was on Sunday, August 30, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Andrew Hinwood and Rev. D. Peter Friberg officiating. Private burial will be at a later date in Spring Lake Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley.
    Honorary bearers were: Austin Jacobson-brother, Jacob Marshall-cousin, friends-Levi Alton, Mitchell Anderson, Colin Kerr, Easten Larson, Jim Ottman, Scott Wood, Ryan Yonke.
    Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

Donna Mae Alms

Donna Mae Alms, age 79, of Spring Valley, WI died Friday, June 12, 2009 at the Heritage of Elmwood Nursing Home, Elmwood, WI.

Donna was born January 30, 1930, the daughter of Christian and Leona (Miller) Alms in Cady Township, WI. She attended Plainview Rural School in Cady Township and graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1948. After high school she attended the University of Wisconsin River Falls, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.

She taught in rural schools before teaching in the Spring Valley school system. Her teaching career lasted 40 years, which was followed by 7 years of tutoring in her home.

She was active in her community and church. Donna was baptized, confirmed and a life long member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church. She was also a member of the Wisconsin Education Association, Ladies Aid Altar Guild, Elmwood Senior Citizens, a 4-H leader and a Sunday school Teacher. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, collecting clocks and dolls, and she also loved to travel visiting all parts of the world such as Canada, Mexico, Australia, Europe, Hawaii and Alaska.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her Sister Elizabeth 'Liz' Lee her brother Robert Alms, and brothers-in-law Ervin Podoll and Donald Lee.

Donna is survived by 2 sisters: Carmen Podoll of Menomonie, WI; Mary (Patrick) Duarisakis of Ballantine, MT;; 1 brother: Joseph (Carol) Alms of Hudson WI; 1 sister-in-law Naoma Alms of Brea, CA; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral service was on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthews's Lutheran Church, Spring Valley with Rev. Martin Wegner officiating. Organist was Kathie Brown. Burial was in St. Michael's Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley.

Pallbearers were Jeff Lee, Brian Lee, Kevin Lee, Chris Lee, Dan Alms, Bill Alms, and David Podoll. Honorary bearers were Randy Lee, Doug Alms, Larry Alms, Brad Alms, Tony Alms, Jon Alms.

Keer Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

Eddie Jahr
    Eddie M. Jahr, age 67, of Wild Rose, formerly of Oshkosh, passed away Thursday morning, June 11, 2009, at his home.
    He was born Aug. 11, 1941, in the town of El Paso, Pierce County, Wisconsin, the son of Marvin and Gladys (Johnson) Jahr. Eddie served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Mr. Jahr was later employed as a mail carrier for the United States Post Service in Oshkosh for many years. Eddie moved from the Oshkosh area to his home in Wild Rose in 1990, and retired shortly after. Eddie had a love for the outdoors, especially tending to the wildlife around his home.
    He is survived by his four children, Eddie (Julie) Jahr of Omro, Jeff (Cheryl) Jahr of Ely, Minn., Robin (Vince) Raya of Mesa, Ariz., Ryan (Hillary) Jahr of Phoenix, Ariz.; four grandchildren, Adam, Autumn, Courtney and Amber; one brother, Marvin (Barb) Jahr of Downsville; four sisters, Vickie (Rich) Asher of Downsville, Carla (Ken) Link of Elmwood, Marie Crump of Freeport, Texas, Carol (Dave) Johnson of Hammond; other relatives and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Inga and Margaret.
    Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at Lake View Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Oshkosh. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of services.

Assisting the family is Leikness Funeral Home in Wautoma, 920-787-3746, www.wautomafuneralhome.com.

Note: the above information is posted on the above-mentioned Leikness Funeral Home web site.

Published in the Eau Claire Leader.

Marie Rose (Miller) Hulverson

Marie Rose (Miller) Hulverson, age 98, of Woodville, Wisconsin died Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at the Parkview Home in Woodville.

Marie was born February 19, 1911, the daughter of George and Louisa (Baumgartner) Miller in West Union Township, Fayette, Iowa. She attended Morgan School in Maiden Rock and was baptized at the Maiden Rock Methodist Church. She was united in marriage on September 24, 1932 to Clemens Hulverson, at Maiden Rock Methodist Church, Maiden Rock, Wisconsin. They were blessed with 3 children, Carole, Donna, and David.

Marie stayed busy with her many different roles and hobbies. She was a homemaker, Postal Clerk, bookkeeper, and worked for Home Care for St. Croix County. She was a Charter member of the Wilson Mother's Club, active in the Wilson Homemakers, the United Methodist Church Women, and volunteered at the Office of Aging. She was an active volunteer in the Wilson Community and Woodville and Wilson Senior Ciizens groups. She was a 'personal seamstress' to her children and grandchildren having made clothes for them all. She picked apples for Connel's Apple Orchard in Hatchvile, cleaned at the Pleasant View and the Wilson Night Club. Marie had many hobbies including crocheting, baking, sewing, playing bingo, and cards. She made hundreds of rosettes every year for family and friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents; 5 brothers: Louis (Vera) Miller, Leonard (Eleanor) Miller, Raymond (Lucille) MIller, Wesley (Lucille) Miller, John (Virginia) Miller; 4 sisters: Celia (Clarence) Hager, Edith (Ralph) Collett, Louisa (Marlin) Fayerweather, Beatrice (LaVern) Elberg; and grandson Benjamin Lynum.

She is survived by her 2 daughters and 1 son: Carole (Palmer) Lynum of Woodville, WI, Donna (Don) Blegen of Spring Valley, WI, David (Leona) Hulverson of Brooklyn Park, MN; 10 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

Visitation was on Friday from 4 - 7:00 p.m. at Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley. Funeral service was Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Knapp United Methodist with Rev. James Harrington officiating. Organist was Melissa Bolden. Burial was at Teegarden Cemetery, Knapp, Wisconsin.

Pallbearers were Scott Lynum, Bradley Lynum, Bryce Blegen, Eric Blegen, John Hulverson, and Grayson Lynum.

Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

Marvel Mae Strom Larson

These hands belong to Marvel Larsen, who was born to Marvin and Bertha Strom in Spring Valley, WI on April 24, 1933. She grew up with three sisters, Francis (Class of '56), Rita (Class of '59), and Betty (Class of '49 - Deceased).

She graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1951, and worked at Honeywell, the Overalls, and Smeads companies. These hands later joined those of Ronald Larsen in marriage in 1953. These hands raised three sons: Terry, Randy, and Timmy. The family laid roots in Florida in 1962.

These hands worked hard through difficult times. These hands created a wonderful yard full of palm trees, beautiful plants and flowers, of which roses were her favorite. Her gardening brought her many joys.

These hands held her only granddaughter Alyssa, with love. There are many fond memories of love and laughter shared at family gatherings throughout the years.

We will forever remember the love felt from the hands of Marvel Mae Larsen.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

Louise Sophia Jesse (Omann) Olson
    Louise Sophia Jesse (Omann) Olson, age 93, of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died January 20, 2009, at the Kinnic Long Term Care Center in River Falls.
    Sophia was born February 20, 1915 in St. Paul, MN to Frank Dietrich and Elizabeth (Lulleman) Omann. She graduated from the 8th grade on June 9, 1928, her certificate was signed by teacher Anne Hawkins and County Superintendent, Mr. Goodell.
    She married John Phillip Olson on June 30, 1938 in Glenwood City, Wisconsin. The couple lived in Spring Valley most of their married life.
    Sophia was an avid gardener, growing and canning many fruits, vegetables, jams and jellies. Her produce was so good that she was able to grow, pick and sell cases of flats (16 quarts to a case) of hulled strawberries. She also canned meats, such as beef, that were fork-tender and tasted far better than fresh roast beef. Sophia was one of the few women who knew what to do with wild game, such as venison, turkey, squirrel, even raccoon, beef and whole hogs. She was also an excellent seamstress, making and remodeling many of the garments for her family.
    She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John Phillip; brothers: Lester, Frank, George, and John; and sisters: Elizabeth and Helen.
    Survivors include 3 children: Carol Mishler, Roberts, WI; Janet (Lawrence) Linkert, Eagan, MN; and Roger (Anne) Olson, New York, NY. Three grandchildren: Lori (Sheldon) Schwinden of Roberts; Victoria (James) Munoz of Coppell, TX; and Rebecca (Robert) Yurkovich of St Paul, MN; 4 great grandchildren: Rachel Schwinden, Dorian Munoz, and Ashley and Devin Yurkovich; and 1 sister-in-law, Minnie Omann of Baldwin, WI.
    A Celebration of Life was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, WI, with Pastor Andrew Hinwood officiating. Visitation was one and one-half hours prior to the service at church. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Emerald, Wisconsin. Pallbearers were James Munoz, Robert Yurkovich, Mark Omann, Rich Hurtgen, Frank ‘Skip’ Omann.

Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

FriedaViola Myrtle Jorgenson

Frieda Jorgenson, age 95, of Anoka, MN, formerly of Spring Valley, WI died Saturday, February 28, 2009, at the Anoka Care Center.

Frieda was born January 12, 1914, the daugher of Frank and Myrtle (Stevens) Wilson in Terre Haute, Indiana, one of 14 children. She lived a difficult childhood having suurvived the Great Depression. Frieda attended school in Terre Haute, but had to quit to help take care of her grandmother. She moved to Michigan and lived with a cousin for several years. This is where she met her future husband, Peter Jorgenson. They were married on July 3, 1933 at Angola, Indiana. Frieda and Peter moved to Wisconsin and farmed in Wilson, Spring Valley and Gilman. In 1949 they bought their farm in Gilman Township. In the mid 1970's they sold the farm to their son Lee. They continued to help on the farm until 1983 when they moved to Arizona for a short time before moving back to Spring Valley.

Frieda was an excellent cook and her grandchildren remember her great fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and doughnuts. She amazed many by how quickly she could prepare a meal. If you visited their home, you were always welcomed with food and coffee, and she could 'make a meal from nothing'.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Peter, who died in December 1993; 10 siblings; and granddaughter Pamela Britton.

Survivors include two daughters and two sons: Georgia (Lester) Britton, Chapel, South Carolina; Richard (Shirley) Jorgenson, Coolidge, AZ; Darlene (Tim) Schmaltz, Andover, MN; and Lee (Karen) Jorgenson, Spring Valley, WI; twelve grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; many great great grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters: LeRoy (Mary) Wilson; Archie (Doris) Wilson; Frances Slaven; and Catherine St. Clair, all of Terre Haute, Indiana; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were on Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Gilman Lutheran Church, Spring Valley, with Rev. D. Peter Friberg officiating. Visitation was from 9:30 until 11:00 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Organist was Carole Lynum. Burial was in Gilman Lutheran Cemetery, Spring Valley.

Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley handled arrangements.

Published in the Spring Valley Sun-Argus.

Norris Larson

Norris “Norry” Larson, 79, of River Falls, died on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2009, at his home.

Norry was born in Spring Valley on Feb. 4, 1929, to Bennie and Katherine Larson. After graduating from Spring Valley High School in 1948, he attended Barber School at the Eau Claire Vocational School.

He was drafted into the Army in 1951. After he was discharged, he returned to barbering in Spring Valley, Menomonie and River Falls, where he worked until cancer forced him to retire.

Norry was a longtime member of Ezekiel Lutheran Church, serving on the Church Council. He was a former City Council member and mayor of River Falls and was of member of the Governor’s League of Municipality and the American Legion Post 121 in River Falls.

Norry is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lois (Bjornson) Larson; daughter, Charlotte (Steve) Risvold; sons: Gregory Larson, Mark (Bernice) Larson, Scott (Susie) Larson, and Daniel Larson; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Thank you to all customers and Main Street friends.

Memorial visitation was held on Monday, Feb. 2, at Ezekiel Lutheran Church.

A private memorial service with interment in the Ft. Snelling National Cemetery was also held.

Arrangements were with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services of River Falls.

Historical Photos

Spring Valley Baseball Team - 1949

Kneeling Down: Dick Kannel and Duane Olson

Front Row: Gene Cardinal, Al Wetterlin, Harry Duffy, John Boller, Al Ducklow, Bill Rudesill, ?

Back Row: Tom Hughes, Lyle Hageman, Ernie Klecker, Kent Rudesill, Dale Kannel and Ron Bailey

Thanks to Dale Kannel for identifying the people in this photo!

Historical View of Spring Valley - year unknown

Spring Valley Flood

submitted by Dick Lowater, Class of '53

Some Interesting Historical Flood Information

Note: You will need to use your Browser "back" button

to return to the SVHS Web Page.

Historical Articles by Don Blegen

These have been published in the Spring Valley Sun/Argus

Glen Park Pool, River Falls, Summer of 1946

Back: Ron Budd, Ed Meier, Dick Adank, Ruth Thompson, Kathryn Thompson, Ruth Davis, Patsy Peterson, Donna Jean Lowater, Mary Wood, Eleanor Gail Davis, Myron Olson, Bertel Budd, unknown swimming instructor.

Front: Ruth Meier, Bob Meier, unknown, Dick Ottman, unknown, Carl "Peewee" Wentland, Dick Wood, Duane Olson, Joe Fujko, unknown, unknown swimming instructor.

Sixty-two years ago this summer, with World War II ended and the country still struggling back from the effects of the Great Depressiob, about two dozen Spring Valley and Elmwood young people and their instructors pose at the edge of the swimming pool in River Falls Glen Park.

School buses transported them there to participate in what has to be one of the most successful educational projects ever conducted. The American Red Cross gave these youths swimming and lifesaving lessons virtually free. Beginner, Intermediate, Lifesaving -- no matter the skill level, they all learned and progressed, gaining skills and confidence in the water. Their parents' income and social class didn't matter. If they were willing to learn and improve, that was enough. And improve they did!

The American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton and others in 1881, modeled on a Swiss organization (the red cross on a white field is the exact reverse of the Swiss flag) that was started after a Swiss businessman watched 40,000 wounded soldiers die from lack of medical attention after a single battle in one of the many European wars of the time. But that is another story.

The idea for swimming and lifesaviing lessons began here in the U.S. in 1914, partly because of all the lives lost in the Johnstown Flood and Galveston Hurricane. It was obvious that hundreds of people might have survived those disasters if only they had known how to swim. By the Forties, the swimming lesson program extended (thanks to a lot of selfless people!) even into little towns like Elmwood and Spring Valley that cound not afford their own swimming pools.

The final result was a cadre of excellent swimmers all across America with lifesaving and rescue skills. There is no telling how many lives have been saved by this training, and no telling how much it contributed to the many water sports that so many of us now enjoy and take for granted. Hats off to the Red Cross and the people who helped in an endeavor that continues to this day!

Thanks to Dick and Don Adank, Helen Sandve, Bob Meier, Jack Weghorn, Bob Brooke, Ellis Poquette, Dick Ottman, and others for help in identifying people in this photo.

Don Blegen

From time to time, there will be little tidbits of history here, taken from the Doug Blegen Historical Display in the Municipal Building in Spring Valley. Please come and visit the display during office hours on weekdays or Saturday morning from 9-12.

The above article was printed in the June 18, 2008 issue of the Spring Valley Sun-Argus, Spring Valley, Wisconsin.

BROOKSIDE SCHOOL-Photo by Henry E. Fairchild

The students of Brookside School pose with their teacher in front of the school about 1920.

Front: Irene Hanson, Ava and Blanch Schutz, Cora Jacobson, Edith and Fern Hanson. Second Row: Lenora Jacobson, Viola Jacobson, Hazel Barnes, Myrtle Harris, Alice Schutz, Frances Schultz, Nora Schultz. Third Row: Charles Schutz, Conrad Jacobson, Alf Stein, Ernest Jacobson. Back: Clarence Schultz, Simon Stein, Teacher Alma Condit, Philip Jacobson, Harvey Hanson, ? Moen.

This school was located on the present Spring Lake Town Hall site, across from the Spring Lake Lutheran Church. Like all the other area country schools, it was eventually consolidated into the Spring Valley School system. Brookside was absorbed in 1948, and East Hill, the other Spring Lake country school a few years later. The dividing line between the two Spring Lake schools was approximately where the new County Concrete quarry is now located.

The Hanson children lived next to the school at the present Tim Anderson site. Their father, Peter, was the long-time (25 years) constable of Spring Valley. Harvey became Spring Valley’s baker. Irene married Harry Duffy, proprietor of Duffy’s Cleaners and manager of Spring Valley’s famous baseball team, Duffy’s Darlings.

-Don Blegen

Thanks to the Bill Stein Estate for the photo, and to Glenn Nelson, Jerry Larson, Nancy Ellefson, and Lorraine Jacobson for information used in this piece.

SPONSORED BY MATT AND MARY HUEPFEL PROPRIETORS SPRING VALLEY

Note: Several people from the '50's have relatives in this picture. Those identified:

-Irene, Edith and Fern Hanson (front row) are Nancy Hanson Ellefson's aunts. Harvey Hanson (back row) is Nancy's father.

-Lenora Jacobson (second row) is Lorraine Jacobson's (class of '56) mother, and next to her is Viola Jacobson, her dad's sister. Philip Jacobson (back row) is Lenora's brother and Bob Jacobson's (class of '56) father. Conrad, Ernest, and Cora Jacobson are first cousins of Lorraine's father. Conrad was Steve Hanson's (class of '56) stepfather. Ernest Jacobson is John Jacobson's (former SVHS student) father.