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Reply from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
Hey Dick,
I really like that idea even better…just keeping it small and simple,and fun! If we already have that “Hwy 43 Bunch” locked down for entertainment,were half way there already in completing the plans…In all fairness to you,and Brenda,and Ron,with you offering to do the entertainment,it would be with the understanding that you play as much,or as little as you guys want to…Wow that would be Great! I know it’s a ways off, but anyone who thinks you might be interested in doing this please contact me,by e-mail or phone. Does anyone out there have any idea about a location we could do this? I already got one e-mail with someone expressing interest in doing this,so as we get closer to May,I’ll maybe hear from more people. So far there’s 4 of us…Good Start! If anyones wondering about why May? I guess for me that’s the only time I’ll be home,cuz I’ll be coming home for like 10 days for my nephews graduation in Rolette. So anyway were all opened to suggestions.Thanks for the input Dick!… Ms. Aggie
Reply from Paula Fassett (71): North Branch, MN
Hi.
I’d like to enter my ‘yea’ vote to Aggie’s suggestion of another, more low-key, reunion in Dunseith. I would gladly drive up for it and I’m sure there are others who don’t live in the immediate area who would attend, also. Dunseith Days is a scheduled yearly event – maybe it could be arranged to have the reunion at the same time as Dunseith Days? Paula Fassett-Pfuhl
Reply from Verena (Pete 65) Gillis: Dunseith, ND. > For the mini event-we have the commons area and the library at the Verena
Reply from Diana Honsey Fiebiger: Seattle, WA. Doris & Faye are my aunts. I so well know the picture on the map Gary is talking about. I have a flower bed with wagon wheel running gear and a rose bush growing around it. Whenever working around the spot I think of Doris. Of course I am just a little prejudice-yes they are beautiful woman. Doris lives in Hastings Mn. Faye lives in Palm Desert, CA. Harvey & Leonard are still living in Seattle , WA.
Reply from Trish Larson (73): Estes Park, CO
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10/07/2009
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Folks, at the moment there is another storm passing through the PI. They are predicting Typhoon level. So far the only affects that we have had of this storm here in Cebu are dark cloudy sky’s with a few light sprinkles of rain with about 20 MPH winds. The brunt of most of these storms pass to the north of us and hammer Manila. Gary
Reply from Margaret Seim Lawston (54) Citrus Heights, CA
Hi Gary. I’m reading the blogs every day. About Doris Honsey, She
and I were in the first grade together at Hilltop school.My folks lived on the Micklemyer place for one year . My Grandfather John died and my Dad went back to the farm to farm for Grandma Ingrid. So only one year at Hilltop. I recall Doris was burned very badly and her Mom was gone with the car and her brothers got her to my Dad’s and he drove her to Bottineau to the hospital. Dad said the trip was terrible because she was in great pain. Yes she was beautiful and had no scares on her face. We were the only first graders and Mrs Perry was our teacher. The communication with all of you N.D. people is truly a treasure. Thanks all. Margaret Seim Lawstoon {maybe it wasn’t the MIcklemyer place . It s the place where Carmen Myer lives now. I’ve been gone 49 years so I may have things mixed up!!!!! Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
Mel– On Thursday, Ron was having trouble with hearing in his right Aggie and Gary–I would think it would be fun to have a ‘low key’ Neola–Where in the world did you find that clipping? Gary said you Dick Reply from Rita Anderson (Former Gamble store owner): Fargo, ND
Henry Sunderland was responsible for getting Heston to the Peace Garden. Heston flew from Minot to Dunseith, and Edger Anderson picked him up. Heston changed clothes at the Gamble store then he and Sunderland drove him to the Peace Garden. Upon their return, they had coffee at the cafe next door, then Edger drove him back to his plane to return to Minot. I don’t remember of any band being there. This was in 1957.
Rita Anderson Reply from Don Lamoureux (75): Bethel, MN
Regarding Charleton Heston’s visit, I always remember being told the Crystal Cafe’s claim to fame was “Heston ate here”.
Don Lamoureux (75) Reply From Evon Lagerquist (77): Dunseith, ND
Hi Gary,
Besides Faye and Doris, Arla had 3 sons: Glen, Harvey, and Leonard. Glen passed away a few years ago, Leonard lives in Seattle, WA., and I’m not sure if Harvey is still living or not. The last I heard(at Glen’s funeral), he was not very well. He also lived in Seattle, I think.. Hope this is helpful.
Evon
Message from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
I hate to lose the old stories I heard from my dad every time one of his brothers came to the house. Art Sime was a good one, he went back a couple years further and all the defectors that came back from Seattle and talked old times.
Stories like the Swede Boys. They were guys that could grab a 180 lbs. hog by one ear and swing him up into a triple wagon box. They had the corner on putting one foot on the ceiling, at their house parties. Granted, some of those houses had low ceilings in those days. Old George Gottbrecht pulling a chamber pot across the stage with the help of a long piece of piano wire in one of his plays at City Hall. Emil Morin was another one, close that one eye and laugh until the tears came. Maybe we had a weird sense of humor, but I don’t see too many people these days reminiscing like that and I miss it.
One thing future generations might be interested in is how we took for granted six full meals a day during haying time, which was from 4th of July to freeze up. Thrashing required eight to ten men. Meal schedule was before daylight breakfast; mid morning lunch in the field; noon back at the house for dinner (as we called it); afternoon lunch in the field; dark was suppertime and I don’t know about others, but we had a quart of peaches or pears plus more before “hitting the hay” as my dad called it.
Those old team of horses would stick their noses in the water tank half way to their eyes and drink in the evening before going to the barn for oats.
We all drank from the same long handled metal dipper. Water never tasted that good since. No refrigerator or electric lights either. Remember when we had to go pick juneberries for tomorrow’s meal, Olinda Eurich?
With the blog, some little piece of information that I did not know keeps coming up and I will take a new look at why they did what they did. Yes, the blog should be enjoyable for future generations. I think everyone has at least one hero that we may not be hearing about…..but you are not done yet Stokes!!! You ROCK.
Gary Metcalfe
July 12, 2007 – Garden Gate Golf coarse, Dunseith, ND.
Esther Murray Fleming (65) – Flint, MI
Karen (68), Gary (66), Arnold & Arlene Wenstad
Trish Larson Clayburgh (73) in the Colorado Rocky Mountains
This is a beautiful picture taken in the Turtle Mountains that I believe Kenny Nerpel provided.
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10/06/2009
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Reply from Larry Liere (55):Devils Lake, ND.
Hi Gary
A little more history about the 10 commandments monument. I was at the event and I think the dedication of the monument was about 1956 because the Devils Lake Band which was the Governor’s Band for North Dakota was invited to play for the dedication. Bob Leonard is correct Charleton Heston was asked to come because he was the star of the Ten Commandments movie. It was a very big event with people coming from all over to see Mr Heston. Dignitaries from the state were there and Mr Heston gave a very nice talk. It may have been one of the bigger events ever held at the Peace Gardens.
LARRY
Reunion suggestion from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
Hi Gary,
Everyone must be getting the fall blues,with no news…or I missed my morning Dunseith “Whats Happening News” on the blog. I can’t thank Neola enough for the picture of the Hwy 43 Band,AKA, Dick Brenda&Ron…. Can never get enough pictures!
I was just thinking, It would be fun to plan a mini-“BLOG REUNION” for the people who live in the general area of Dunseith ,Rolette, Bottineau, area around the time of the High School Graduations, when people from far away,just might be in the area. Nothing fancy…just a gathering at an agreed location to hang out for the evening and visit. Like a steak house, or pot luck at someones cabin at the lake, or farm yard, or town yard…just anywhere(except “Beer Can Alley…LOL) just to hang out and visit.
If anyone would be interested in doing this give me a “holla” at 803-389-1315 or by e-mail…Maybe we could get those “Highway 43 People” play us a couple songs…
Thanks Gary….Ms.Aggie
Reply from Mel Kuhn (70): Saint John, ND.
Howdy Gary,
I have a question for Dick Johnson. Did the picture of you guys at the Hotfest get put in backwards or when you got down there amongst all the rest of dem Norveegins did you forget where you usually stand?
Mel Kuhn
From Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
There has been some mention about the pretty girls in Dunseith, and I agree. I just wanted to see how many remember or knew a gal by the name of Doris Honsey. Minnie Flynn remembered the ND state map with Doris on the front cover, standing by a wild rose bush, possibily at the Peace Garden, maybe 12 or 14 years old. Blonde and beautiful. I know Willard Lamb knew Doris and her sister Faye very well.
Talk about talent, they put on a performance, musical and dance at that boring old Hilltop School during recesses until they backed into the poison ivy. Faye and Doris rode Dusty and Bernice Jasper’s horse was Fanny. Bernice had two miles home, Faye and Doris had three miles. My brother and I rode old Dewey double and kept up pretty well that first mile north. We had three and half miles and old Dewey was not a fast horse. Anyway, Doris, Faye and Bernice had fast horses and rode like the wind. bareback as we did.
She lost her dad, Sam Honsey, at maybe two years old in the thirties out on his trap line. Her mom and older brothers did a great job on those two girls and Dunseith lost them to Rolla partly because of the roads at that time. Gary Metcalfe
HEY AGGIE, you did it again splendid real life experience. You could have used big john wayne along to crack a couple skulls. WE LIVE IN AN AREA in missouri when they use the n word i just say id rather be black on the outside than on the inside. Then its time to move along. Gary Metcalfe
June 5, 1971 – Dick and Brenda exchange Vows:
Posted by Neol Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Cropped picture:
Twins, Greg & Gwen Grimme
Cropped picture:
Greg, Gwen & Conley Grimme
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10/05/2009
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Reply from Bob Leonard (51): Dunseith, ND.
A little history about the 10 commandment monument. I am not sure who decided to place this monument where it is, must have been the Peace Garden Board of Directors.
The impressive thing about this was the fact they had Charleton Heston dedicate the monument when it was completed. Am sure he was invited because of his actor role in the movie, The Ten Commandements. He flew into Minot, was picked up by Henry Sunderland, my father in law, was driven to the Peace Garden for the event.
It was a big day for everyone involved. Henry was a director and promotor of the Peace Garden for many years, starting with the dedication in 1932.
Bob
Picture provided by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Saturday October 3, 2009 – Highway 43 at the Hostfest in Minot
L to R: Ron Hett, Dick Johnson and Brenda Johnson.
 Request from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Hi Gary,
Wally/I visited with Myron/Rhonda Eman Langehaug at the Hostfest last night; their seats were next to ours for the Ray Steven’s show. I had also visited with them at Highway 43’s performance. I was telling them about your newsletter (I knew Myron would be familiar with many of the names.) and asked if he would like to receive your newsletter–he would. Here is his email address:
Myron delivers mail in the Turtle Mts. From our visit, it appears he probably has Ole Dyrstad’s (married to Clara Kofoid) old route. I do mean OLD! I remember staying at Gramp’s in the forties and going to the mailbox to go the mail. Ole was the mail carrier at that time. He didn’t like all the curves in the road and would honk his horn so other vehicles would hear him coming. More good memories.
 Neola
P.S. Myron’s wife, Rhonda, was my student when she was in the third and fourth grade in Kramer (combination room). More good memories.
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Martin Rude Family:
Folks, this is a picture that Wally Garbe, Neola’s husband sent to me. Martin Rude is the guy that was the collector of all the old machinery that we mentioned with yesterdays message. Leroy is married to Roberta Lemike (69) lrrude@srt.com . Martin Rude was also an uncle to Virgil Rude who lives in Minot. He is also an uncle to LaVerne Rude who is married to Carrole Fuaske (66). As I mentioned in yesterday’s message, all 40 of Martin’s old Threshing Machines are lined up and displayed, with some other old machinery, along the road near Kenny’s place east of Long Lake up in the hills. I listed the general directions in yesterday’s message.
Speaking of collecting old machinery, Virgil Rude has a collection of old tractors too. Virgil and I could never get coordinated for him to show me his collection when we were back there in 2007. Gary
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10/04/2009
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Folks, I got mixed up with my numbering of these daily messages yesterday. Yesterday’s should have been 574, not 581. I am just continuing from 581 now though. Gary
Reply from Florence Hiatt Dahl (50): Anchorage, AK
Reading Erling Landsverk’s memory of working with black people brought back the memory of beling sent to Cook County Hospital in Chicago as student nurses from Trinity Hospital back in the early fifty.s. A black nurses aide took us North Dakotans as her personal friends. She was wonderful—we absolutely loved her. She took us to zoo.s, parks, museums and old churches and down ”town”. Places we would never have found on our own. Just a couple weeks before we finished the Psych,Neuro and Contage part of our training, we were called in for a lecture………………and informed that ”this” relationship had to stop or she would be fired. Erling you are right.
Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin (71): BEDFORD, TX
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10/03/2009
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Reply from Erling Landsverk (44): Portage, WI
Hi Gary and Everyone:
After reading your last message today, I couldn’t get Aggie Cassavants letter out of my mind, where she described the reception she and her colleagues received in Dunlap, Tennessee. I grew up in the turtle Mountains, and of course we were not exposed to other races very much, but I know both Mother and Dad were color blind when it came to race or religion. I am very grateful to them for their tolerance for everyone, and I am sure it made an impression on me that has made it much easier for me to make friends, and communicate with people of every race or creed. A case in point; the V A sent me to Hines, Ill. to the V A Hospital for the blind to receive training to help me deal with the disability. I met many African American veterans, and during my stay i got to know them well and became friends, and some of them still had the old slave dialect that we come to recognize them. . Some were very articulate, but I wouldn’t be able to tell whether they were black or caucasion. My wife and oldest son came to visit me one day and I had extolled to them about how much i enjoyed working with a particular instructor, who also happened to be my coordinator. He knew they were coming and I asked him to stop by my room so I could introduce him to them. Sure enough, he came to my room and i introduced him and we enjoyed a short but informative conversation. After he left, my wife turned to me and said, you never told me he was black. I told her truthfully that i didn;t know, but that the thought had not entered my mind. I think if more people who have racist notions would simply put on a blindfold before they meet someone of a different race, that they may put aside foolish notions about superiority and other foolish thoughts. His name was Emery, and He was an outstanding instructor. I went back for some additional training 2 years later. When he met me in the hall he called me by name , came over, shook my hand and renewed our relationship with some cheery remarks. I feel truly sorry that Aggie had to witness the type of ignorant racism that must have terrified the little girls with her. It is my hope that people like that will eventually discover the error of their way, but unfortunately this type of mentality will more than likely crop up again. There is good and bad in every race or religion, and it is our duty to separate the good from the bad, and teach our children the right way. Sorry for the long sermon, It is one of my pet peeves.
Erling Landsverk
Message that Neola Kofoid Garbe sent out to her folks
neola@min.midco.net Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Hi Bottineau Bunch/Brudwick’s,
Many of you know Virgil Rude, son of Alfred/Viola Bjornseth Rude. Virgil suffered a stroke on September 18. The enclosed email came from his wife, Gerry.
Neola
Neola,
Sorry I haven’t got back to you sooner. Virgil has no problem with you sharing information about him. His right side is weaker than the left, and his speech was affected some. He can walk, but we stay close by so he doesn’t fall. He can also talk and we have no problem understanding him, but certain sounds have to be worked on. His stroke was on the 18th. He noticed he couldn’t make certain sounds and asked me to take him to the emergency room. He has therapy 2-3 hours every other day and is already making progress. Gerry
Reply from Louise Pigeon Horsman (43): Bothell, WA
I was reading the message from Bill Hosmer about the Tennancour girls. I will be seeing Eileen within the next month. Harold passed away and she is living in a retirement home in Bothell. Louise Pigeon Horsman
Lorette Berube Leonard & Bernadette Stokes
Leo (Phyllis McKay’s special friend) with Marvin & Marie Iverson Staub (60)
This is a birthday party that we celebrated at Shakey’s in the mall for Bernadette’s Great Niece in yellow on the right. With exception of our two helpers and the little boy in front on the end, these are a few of Bernadette’s relatives. Bernadette’s sister, Berlinda, is on the right in blue. As you can tell, I’m the minority in this group. I don’t speak their language, but they can speak mine, so that’s OK.
The lady of the house, Benadette, with her helpers below.
Sisters – Our helpers Gaga and Tata. Tata’s husband, Aldren, works for us too. He takes care of the outside.
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10/02/2009
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Reply from Gary Fulsebakke (71): Devils Lake, ND
To Sharon Zorn Gerdes
The 10 Commandment monument that Arnold and Lorna are standing next to is in front of the Lodge on the American side of the Peace Garden. One of the most impressive displays of the Commandments that I have seen is on a large billboard as you enter the town of Alexander in western ND. Gary Fulsebakke Reply from Bill Hosmer (48): Tucson, AZ & Lake Metigoshe, ND
Gary and Friends, Erling, in his interesting “Thank You” mailing mentioned the Tennancour girls on the west side of Dunseith School. They are on page 125 of the Dunseith Centennial Book. I remember Lila and Eileen, and had the typical school boy crush on them as well as several other beauties our town was famous for. Eileen married a guy named Harold Korbel. When Harold was in the Air Corps during WW ll he came to our house to visit with my parents, Jack and Inez. Eileen and he were, I believe just married or about to be. She was there with him. Harold used to work for Steve and Jennie Cook at Kelvin, and was a very handsome man. Later while I was in the Air Force in the fifties, he came to the same base I was stationed and we had a cup of coffee before he had to take off again. Lila used to pal with another young woman, whose family was mentioned in Erling’s mail. John Myhre’s daughter, Muggs (a nick name). Another beauty from the old
days, class of ’42 was Beaulah (Polly) Peloquin, daughter of Joe and Ada and sister of Doreen. Then, of course as time marched on, other women closer to my age started to get my attention. The Sunderland girls, Patty McCatee, Bernice Olson, and almost everyone you could see at the drug store and at the dances in the old city hall. Sometimes there is an explosive reaction to a contribution like Erlling’s resulting in a shower of memories coming out of the shadows. Thanks to you, Gary and you other historical characters of value. Bill Hosmer
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Gary, Erling Landsverk and friends, (Family Stories from our Dad)
When our father, Clifford Metcalfe reminisced about school days, he’d speak highly of the two teachers who were positive influences in his life. He referred to them as; Miss Olson (Potratz) and Mr. Larson. Even as an adult he held utmost respect and fondness for Miss Laura Olson (Mrs. Potratz) and Mr. Harry Larson.
“There was a school function to be held. Our dad, was asked if his mom, was coming?(Rose Metcalfe, at that time, was a HUGE robust woman later was diagnosed with diabetes) He said, “Yes.” His class mate Agnes said, “Can she get through the door?” Our father said, “I grabbed her by the hair and the next thing I knew Harry Larson had me by the hair pulling me off….. His mother, asked dad why he was in a fight & he wouldn’t tell her.”
--
Vickie L. Metcalfe
Reply/Story from Aggie Cassavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
To Dick&Brenda, Oh Wow, what I wouldn’t have given to go see you guys play at Hostfest. I still have your C.D. in my player in my van.Listen to it still to and from work.Gotta love the Pauncho & Lefty song,and Rebel Soldier,my two favorite. I love the history of the South,and beleive me when I say South Carolina is full of history…there are some pockets here and there,that I swear don’t realize the Civil War is over…that can really get crazy sometimes.
In 1990 I was traveling by mule and covered wagon,with a wilderness program for troubled teens by the name of “Vision Quest, based out of Franklin Pennsylvania.The kids on the wagon train were inner city kids from New York, Philadelphia’and Pittsburg.We had 13 wagons pulled by mules. We started out in Franklin PA,and our destination was Kissimee Florida. We would go 20 miles a day,set up camp.(Which was real tepees that held 16 kids each) We had like 92 kids on our train both boys and girls,with 98% of the kids being African American. Everything went smooth til we got to Dunlap Tennessee. We had a point scout who would ride way ahead of the wagon train,and ask farmers if we could set up camp overnite on their property,and be gone by sun up. It was so funny,cuz I have no idea what the point scout was telling the farmers,but I think they thought it was a bunch of boy scouts,with pup tents. When we would come rolling through there yard with 13 covered wagons pulled by mules,with the point scout,and rear scout,and a Wagon Master looking like “Bat Masterson” and started setting up our 7 life sized teepees,with ninety-something wilding out inner-city kids…you should of seen the look on some of these farmers faces…sheer terror you could tell,cuz they were chasing there kids into the house,just scootin them along.
Well everyone along the way welcomed us for the most part,the news media would chase us down in some parts…But…….Now we get to Dunlap Tennessee……Oh Wow. Well to set the stage of what I’m fixin to tell you…I was told that Dunlap,Tennessee is where the KKK was founded….So needless to say it explains,all the ignorance showed to us,that eventually got down right dangerous. The point scout went a couple hours ahead of us,and asked the sherriff in town if we could set up camp on the fair grounds for the weekend…The sherriff agreed. By the time we pulled into town,the towns people were waiting on the side of the road to greet us til they saw that most of the kids were African American. We proceeded thru town got down to the fair grounds and started setting up camp. I was down where we were feeding the horses,and mules,I had 5 kids with me closest to the road. Pretty soon I saw these 4 guys coming down the hill,hollering and waving. Well we were told,that when the public comes down to see us when we go thru these towns,that no matter how tired we are that we were suppose to take the time,be friendly,and show them around. So I started walking towards the road with 3 of the kids(girls) waved and hollered hi. When they got closer I could see one of the 4 guys had something in his hand. As they got closer I could hear them yelling,get out of their town with these “n—er kids”blah blah blah. When they got right up to me I saw what the guy had in his hand was a 5th of Whiskey…finally I told them flat out the Civil War is over,and i didn’t have time to listen to their ignorance and asked them to leave. As i turned to walk away with my kids,the guy with the whiskey bottle, spit at me and called me a ni–er lover,and yelled,”If your not out of here by dark were gonna come back and grind all those little ni–ers up and feed them to our cattle. Well by then I had 3 girls hanging onto me digging their nails into my arms.I went and told the Wagon Master,so he went into town to talk to the sherriff. The sherriff said’,You should of known better than to bring all them n—ers into our town. Later that night,which was a Friday night at about 11pm. all the town outlaws came out in force driving up and dowm the road,honking horns ,yelling hate talk,and shooting in the air above our teepee’s. Some of the male staff said they could hear the bullets whizzing thru the air.It was my night to sleep in the tac trailer that night,but Heather,came and got me.She said the girls were scared,and they said,”Go get Miss Aggie to come and sleep in our teepee,she isn’t scared of those guys,she told them they were stupid today”. Well I went and slept in the teepee but it had nothing to do with not being scared earlier that evening,it was a case of my mouth getting ahead of my brain.The next day,about 8 of us had the day off,so we walked into town to have something to do. When we went into this little cafe to get something to eat,we all had our red Rough Rider tee shirts on. Everyone was staring at us,and whispering…no one would wait on us… The sherriff was sitting up at the counter,just like in the movies,with that brim hat on,big cigar in his mouth,round dark sunglasses,and kept turning around and looking at us.Finally he said”You can sit there til hell freezes over,but we don’t serve ni–er lovers here”and started chuckling.As we got up to leave,he yelled after us”There’s only one way out of this town and it’s thru our main street,and you better have a shovel with you to pick up your mule s–t,or will pick it up for you,and chase down your wagon train and throw it in your covered wagons on your “little n—–s.As everyone from my group kept moving,towards the door I just stood there staring at this sherriff dumbfounded,pretty soon,Brian grabbed my arm,and said,”Don’t say nothing,lets go…He kinda jerked me back to reality…As we walked back to camp,no one said a word…I think we were all lost in our own thoughts…Who would of ever thought this kind of craziness still existed…So anyway Dick and Brenda, Like the song goes…”Then the rebel soldier dies”… Those of you who have the opportunity to go listen to Dick, Brenda,& Ron perform…I know you won’t be disappointed….thank you all for everything!
Ms.Aggie
Reply to picture posted yesterday
From Glen Williams (52): Missoula, MT
Good grief…Those guys have really aged…..
Previously posted with message 180 on 8/3/08
Message/Picture from Gary Morgan (54):
Gary & All,
Attached is a snapshot of the entire 1950 football team that my mother took after we had beaten Belcourt in our first game of the season. We had previously thumped Towner in a practice scrimmage so we were on a roll. Back row: Billy Leonard, Marshall Awalt, Clayton McKay, Bob Leonard, Jerry Blake, Don Hiatt & Stephen Renault. Front row: Gary Morgan, Eddie Leonard, Dick Morgan, Jerry Williams, Glen Williams & Don Hosmer. White jersey: Barry Shelver. We only had 12 game uniforms so Barry, being only a lowly 8th grader didn’t get one. However, in the next game, against Leeds, Stephen got his nose broken, a not uncommon occurrence in those days, and was out for the season. This was a good thing for Barry cuz now he got a game uniform. I don’t know why Bill missed the team picture. This was the first football team Dunseith fielded since before the war and we took our lumps. We played Belcourt twice so got two wins but were humiliated by Leeds 60-13 and also beaten by Rolla, Towner and Bisbee twice for a record of 2-5. We were competitive in all but the Leeds game. The next year, we won our first two games but in the second one, against Rolette, Don Hosmer’s head met Eddie Leonard’s knee and they were both knocked out of action. Since we only had three subs to start with, including 90 lb. Barry Shelver and 75 lb. Gary Woodford, we had to cancel the rest of the season. Janice is right. Old school friends are special. Gary Morgan 1950 DHS football team:
Back row L to R: Billy Leonard, Marshall Awalt, Clayton McKay, Bob Leonard, Jerry Blake, Don Hiatt & Stephen Renault.
White jersey: Barry Shelver
Front row L to R: Gary Morgan, Eddie Leonard, Dick Morgan, Jerry Williams, Glen Williams & Don Hosmer
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10/01/2009
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Reply from Sharon Zorn Gerdes (62): Windsor, CO
I just want to note that I am so impressed with the Zeilers and their ten commandments. It was nice to see a photo of them anyhow, but I wondered where that marker stands. I would love to put something like that in my front yard, can you imagine what a commotion it would cause in this mixed up world we live in. It just made me proud for whoever put that up. Thanks, Sharon Zorn Gerdes, 62
Reply from Erling Landsverk (44): Portage, WI
Hi Gary and all My North Dakota Friends!
I want to SHOUT A BIG THANK YOU! TO ALL OF YOU THAT LEAPED INTO MY REQUEST FOR HELP IN MY SEARCH OF INFORMATION ABOUT HARRY LARSON. Your help has made it possible to contact members of his extended family and by this week end perhaps his daughter Janice. Talk about results
I called the number out in spokane washing for Janice Myhre and got their voice mail. Found out later that they are on a short vacation to the coast. I called Jeanie Schneibel at Dick Johnson’s suggestion, she pointed me to Mary Ann Larson, in Hamilton, Montana, and Mary Ann filled me in on a lot of questions that I had. She apparently never married, but sounds very happy where she lives, and is in contact with her niece Janice quite often. Thank you Gary Metcalfe for getting the ball rolling, Thank you Lloyd Awalt for your report on where the family moved to etc, Thank you to Jan Evans for your accurate information and a special Thank you to you Gary Stokes for your diligent pursuit of finding the family. If i have missed someone who helped Iam sincerely sorry and again I can only repeat what I said previously, “the folks from the turtle mountains,Dunseith and Bottineau and the surrounding area are the greatest. I will follow up with a report after I contact Janice. Incidentally, you younger folks may not know that John Myhre owned and operated Myhre’s Dept store, right next to the Red Owl Store. My Uncle Thobve Landsverk built and operated that store untill he died suddenly during surgery at a Bottineau hospital. I am sure Lloyd Awalt remembers Myhre’s Dept Store. Gary Metcalfe mentioned my uncle Halvor a few days earlier, about his poetry and journalistic skills, all i can say is that uncle Halvor had an aversion to heavy physical work and only did so when there were no other options. Yes he did write poetry, and a kind of column in the Dunseith Journal, but he did have a lot of talent for music, and he was keenly interested in politics, which he expounded whenebver the opportunity presented itself. Yes, I did forget to thank you Dick Johnson, your information was most helpful, sorry I missed you the first time.
I do remember a couple of attractive girls whose name wasTennanccour and they lived just across the street from the old school, on the west side that is
Erling Landsverk
Reply from Sybil Johnson: Cheyenne
Dick,
If I could, I would most definitely join you and Brenda at the Hostfest in Minot. But, you and Brenda have a wonderful time there and please, dont eat (1) Bob Leonard, (2) Don Hiatt, (4) Gary Morgan, (5) Dick Morgan, (6) Glen Williams, (7) Kick McKay, (3) Ed Leonard
(12 Marshall Awalt, (10) Clark Crum, (8) Don Hosmer, (11) Jerry Williams, (9) Barry Shelver
Note: These 4 guys are in the football picture above.
Picture L to R:
Barry Shelver, Gary Morgan, Clark Crum, Jerry Williams
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09/30/2009
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Highway 43 with Dick & Brenda Johnson will be performing at the Hostfest daily:
Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Gary Metcalfe–Sorry I misunderstood the Harry-Harold Larson We have gotten many requests for the CD of our live performance, Dick Reply from Jan Bergan Evans (66): MONTICELLO, MN
Hi Gary The Harry Larson that you are referring to is the Larson that was married to Alice Evans Berube’s sister Esther Tennancour. They had 2 children George and Jani Larson Myhre Janie is in Spokane and George is in Pittsburgh, He died 1986 and Esther died 1-15-1991,
Arnold & Lorna Zeiler – July 2008
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09/29/2009
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Reply from Llyod Awalt (44): Bottineau, ND
Erling, Harry Larson was my teacher when I was in the 7 & 8 grade in 1938 & 39 . he was there from 1937 to 40 or 41 then went to Montana. I’m not sure how many were in that family. Swead lived north of overly. Charles lived north east of overly. I’m not sure if he was the father of the Larson or just a brother . That’s the only ones that lived around here that I know of. I was in the same grade as you was in high school with urban &yedola I quit school when I was a sophomore then went in the navy. Lloyd Awalt
Request from Verena (Pete) Gillis (65): Dunseith, ND.
Gary,
I received a call requesting a picture of Wilbur “Billy” McKay-born October 1907 and died Sept. 16, 1924. Could you post this and if anyone has any pictures of Wilbur to please send a copy to: Arla Linford- Street-Renton, Washington 98059. Her telephone number is (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Thank you.
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Thanks Lloyd for the information on Clint Anderson’s cream station. It To Erling Landsverk– Yesterday Gary Metcalfe mentioned that Harold Gary Morgan’s story about his dad and Rene Bedard and hunting ducks Dick From Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Hello everyone, There seems to be some confusion on Harold and Harry Larson. Harold was Harry’s baby brother.
To Larry Hackman: Within the next few weeks we intend to go up to New Haven, Gerald and Hermann, Missouri. I thought some of your relatives were from Hermann, but I am not sure. With the Dietrick’s and Hackman’s and the church location, we should be able to find some relatives, after all your grandfather Hackman had lots of brothers and sisters that may have stayed in that area. We love Missouri with it’s 6,000 caves and clear water rivers and streams, so we camp often and look for out of the way adventures. Looking up some of your family will give us a reason to go that way. If you have any information about any of them, please let us know. Gary Metcalfe Previously post with message 171 on 7/25/08
Irene Pigion’s Obituary provided by Vickie Metcalfe (70):
Gary, I copied the following for your information;
Irene Pigeon is dear Lise’ ( Rousseau) (DHS Class of 64) Metcalfe’s mom. Vickie
Lise/Larry Rousseau-Metcalfe
Fargo, ND 58104
No email address
 Irene Pigeon, 88, of Fargo, died July 22, 2008, at Elim Care Center in Fargo, ND. The daughter of Jeffrey and Marie Pronovost, Irene was born December 19, 1919, at Lac a la Tortue, Quebec, Canada where she grew up and attended school. On July 8, 1944, she married Roland Coutou at Grandmere, Quebec, Canada. He died June 8, 1946, of a work-related accident. She remained in Canada until 1950 at which time she married Joe Rousseau on November 25, and they moved to North Dakota where Joe farmed. In 1956 they moved to Dunseith where she worked at San Haven Sanitarum for fifteen years. Joe died November 12, 1969. Irene then married Romulus Pigeon on June 15, 1972. They lived in Dunseith until his death in 1979. She then moved to Carrinton, ND. In 2003 she entered Elim Care Center where she remained until her death. She is survived by: her daughter, Lise Metcalfe (Larry) Fargo, ND; grandsons, Brian (Kiki) Columbia, CA, and Christopher (Kristina) Fargo, ND; brother, Clement Pronovost, and sister, Liette Boulet (Aime) both of Montreal, Canada. Memorial service: Saturday, July 26, 2008, at 2 p.m. at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, Fargo, ND
With all the questions about the latest storm that hit the PI, I thought I’d include this map that Bill Grimme provided several years ago. We are located in Cebu, where the red star is on this map. We are 380 miles south, southeast of Manila. We are located about 500 miles north of the equator. The latest storm that came though causing all the flooding was in the Manila area.Gary
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09/28/2009
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Five Samski family members will be visiting the Dunseith area. It’s been decades since they were in the area.
Rod Samski’s (65) Reply to a Personal message from Gary.
STOCKTON, CA
 A special Hello to you Gary, it’s always good to hear from you. I have been following the daily Dunseith news. Some of the news is good and some not so good. The last time I talked to you I had decided not to attend the reunion because I really did want to remember all the wonderful memory’s the way I remembered them.
When my dad Gene said he wanted to go back there and see the land and the people, he’s 90 and still drives and lives independent, gets around like a 60 year old. I thought lets make some new memories. Now there will be 3 sisters Carol and Marlys who were born there and Karen who was born in Lodi Calif. We will be having a reunion with the Eurich’s, Jean,Sharon,Dorthy,Eileen and Floyd Pritchard who was a great childhood friend. There are so many wonderful people we hope to see. One of our disappointments we will not be seeing Dwight Lang who no longer stays in Lake Metigoshe it has been good talking by phone with Dwight. We also will be looking at the old Stokes farm, Boguslawski, Hill’s, Houles, Johnson,the list goes on.
Rod…
If you think our trip is worth putting in the blog it is fine with me, who knows we might here from others while back there.
Reply from Lloyd Awalt (44): Bottineau, ND.
The picture of the Anderson’s cream station ( he was my uncle ) was located north of the Dakota hotel where Flynn’s gas station was the big building attached is the city hall which burned down on new years eve 1931. Just south of the cream station later years the cabins of the hotel were built . The cabin facing the street was the border station there was no station at the peace garden at this time. The cream that was bought was put in 10 gal cream cans and shipped to larger creameries by rail. charley Wright had a cream station where Maries beauty shop is . These creameries bought cream for other big creameries. Lloyd Awalt.
From Gary Morgan (54): GARRISON, ND
Gary & All,
The waterfowl season opened in North Dakota this weekend which reminds me of one of my dad’s favorite stories: It seems Rene Bedard asked my dad if he wanted to go duck hunting with him. My dad declined, saying that he didn’t particularly like the taste of duck, he hated cleaning them and most of all he never had any luck shooting ducks. He had never gained the knack for leading them. Either he led them too far or not enough. To which Rene responded, “Hmph, it just depends on how fast they’re swimming! Thank you, Gary. You give a lot of people something to look forward to every day. Gary Morgan From Blanche Wicks Schley (42): Grand Forks, ND
Question from Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI
Is Harry Larson the Harold Larson that taught for a number of years at Russell School?
Allen Richard
Reposted from yesterday’s message:
From Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Reply to Erling Landsverk
I think there were 11 kids in that Larson family. The only ones I knew were Swede, who was married to Clara Hagen and Harold. Everyone knew Harold from Dunseith Baseball Days. Harold was a good baseball player and vocal as well. He and his wife taught at Russell School for many years. My grandmother, Randina Evans, babysat for their three children.
My mother knew Harry Larson. Harry married Ernest Tennancour’s daughter, Esther. They had two children George and Janice. They moved to Montana where Harry taught, then he went to work for an oil company until he retired. Then moved to Yakima, Wa. His son George is a teacher in Pa., Janice a teacher in Spokane.
I might add, Harold Larson gave up teaching to sell insurance. Harold has two daughters living in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. We knew Harold from Metigoshe Ministries Church.
I have been meaning to ask why we have not heard about a famous Landsverk…..Halvor, a poet and reporter.
for Willow Lake Community
Gary Metcalfe
Name: Harry Larson
Birth Date: 27 March 1909 Death Date: June 1986 Residence at Death: Yakima,Yakima,Washington 98902 SSN: 720-18-0516 |
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09/27/2009
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From Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Reply to Erling Landsverk
I think there were 11 kids in that Larson family. The only ones I knew were Swede, who was married to Clara Hagen and Harold. Everyone knew Harold from Dunseith Baseball Days. Harold was a good baseball player and vocal as well. He and his wife taught at Russell School for many years. My grandmother, Randina Evans, babysat for their three children.
My mother knew Harry Larson. Harry married Ernest Tennancour’s daughter, Esther. They had two children George and Janice. They moved to Montana where Harry taught, then he went to work for an oil company until he retired. Then moved to Yakima, Wa. His son George is a teacher in Pa., Janice a teacher in Spokane.
I might add, Harold Larson gave up teaching to sell insurance. Harold has two daughters living in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. We knew Harold from Metigoshe Ministries Church.
I have been meaning to ask why we have not heard about a famous Landsverk…..Halvor, a poet and reporter.
for Willow Lake Community
Gary Metcalfe
Clara Hagen Larson’s (38) Obituary:
OVERLY Clara Larson, 89, Bottineau, died Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009, in a Bottineau nursing home. She was born Jan. 4, 1920, to John and Agnes Hagen north of Bottineau. She married Clarence Larson in 1938 at Rolla. Survivors: daughters, Peggy Culhane, Columbia, Mo., Barbara Evanger, Mandan; son, Ronald, Overly; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Ina Anderson, Mondovi, Wis., Florence Marten, Modena, Wis.; brothers, Raymond, Kennewick, Wash., Oscar, LaCrosse, Wis. Funeral: Tuesday, 10 a.m., Willow Creek Church, Overly. Burial: Willow Creek Cemetery, rural Overly. Prayer service: Monday, 7 p.m., Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau. Visitation: Monday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., in the funeral home. Message/Pictures from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
Hi Gary,
There should be plenty of time to pack suitcases later today so I give you my first minutes. Many of your readers will find the 1938 list of teachers for Rolette County of interest. My cousin Mildred Gottbreht Solomon taught summers in the rural schools near St John at this time – she married in ’39. The picture of Ernest Boucher, Ronnald Tennancour, George Gottbreht and Sharron Shen was taken at Bob’s Cafe near the Missouri River front Sept 23. We then adjourned to Uncle’s apartment to enjoy a very delicious birthday cake. George was on the road to pick up Ronnie in Bottineau when he remembered CAKE! He called Wayne Barbot who arranged a beautiful cake with a baker he knew in Williston. It was all ready when Geo and Ron arrived – George keeps the controls at 2mph over speed limit, always! Uncle regaled us with several stories that evening. This is one I should tell before I loose it. North Dakota voted Dry when she entered the Union. Back in the early 30’s when Ernie delivered beer in East Grand Forks, it was always draft beer sold in kegs. The only bottled beer sold was to the bootleggers. Special boxes were built to fit under the car seats which held one layer of large bottles side by side. No one local in the industry thought bottled beer and cash and carry sales would be a success. But when prohibition and state law changed a Jewish gentleman opened a market in GF selling bottled beer take away. His huge success made the local retailers take notice and the rest is history. Uncle certainly enjoyed the visit. He teased Ronnie about the “strong” language he probably had learnt in the plumbing business and poked a bit of fun at the Mayor of Dunseith. Every niece and nephew was recalled and inquired about. Amazing man. Must run but wish to bring this visit to everyone at least one more time. Sharron
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09/26/2009
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From LeaRae Parrill Espe (67): Bottineau, ND.
SAMSKI VISIT
My mother received a letter from Carol Samski, daughter of Gene and Marion Samski. Carol and Gene will be in the Dunseith area for a nine day visit ending October 9th. They lived on the farm next to us in the foothills where Bonner & Carol Law, Jim & Marty Wheeler, Garret and Debbie Myer, & Charlene Woods later lived. They had five children when they moved to Lodi, California in Jan or Feb 1957-Douglas, Rodney, Diane, Carol and Maryls. Diane was in my grade and one of the 37 first graders mom had her first year of teaching in town 1955-56. Diane and I were best of friends. Mom and dad became good friends with the Samski’s even though we only lived neighbors for two years before they moved. Diane and I were pen pals for years. Our parents exchanged Christmas letters most every year since. Marion ended up with some type of dementia and passed away December 2007. The Samski’s had two or three more daughters after they moved.
I am thinking Rod or Douglas contributed to this blog quite awhile back.
Anyway, I just wanted to let people know that Gene is planning this visit. I called Carol last night to get more details, but could only leave a message. She lives in Hawaii and I believe it is five hours behind Central. I called at 10:30 PM our time.
From LeaRae
PARRILL BARN- More questions than answers
The picture Dick Johnson posted of the Parrill barn is a mystery to me. Dad told me that our Grandfather owned land in the Turtle Mt. that was sold to put a down payment on the land that his step father , Joe Cox, bought in the Red River Valley near Mountain (Cavalier), ND. This land was sold some time in the 1930s. Our grandfather, Cecil Day Parrill, came from Illinois and taught school (in Russell township ?) and then was Supt of Dunseith Public School at the time of his death in December 1918. He was a victim of the Flu Epidemic of 1918. My uncle Thurman was one year old and my dad (Dean Parrill) was born four months after his death. Cecil married Laura Melhus at John’s(?) Lutheran. This church later merged with Little Prairie.
I am wondering if this barn was North of Dunseith or North of Bottineau. I was always under the impression the land was North of Bottineau but it would actually make more sense that it was N of Dunseith, except I thought dad said it was over by Bottineau.
We have family history stating that the Parrills came to America from Scotland between 1660-1690. Hugh Parrill (9 generations back from me) settled in Virginia and was a neighbor of George Washington. (Some legal papers of Washington mention dealings with the Parrills).
Parrills fought on both sides in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. During the Civil War, some moved to West Virginia as they were against slavery and some stayed on the Virginia side as they were in favor of slavery. Three or four Parrills married Calverts, relations of Lord Baltimore (so it is written). Anne Calvert married Hugh Parrill. Later, some Parrills moved to Ohio and Illinois. Our grandfather came alone to ND to teach school after graduating (?)from Valparaiso University in Illinois. Dad attended a Parrill reunion in Illinois when he was about 20. We had Christmas cards from his uncle and cousins in Farina, ill, but otherwise we kids have never met any of our Parrill relatives. My brother Clark had a letter and emails from Michael Parrill of West Virginia. If anyone on the blog knows any Parrills, they are probably related. Some spellings are slightly different, but could still be related. (Actually, I think my cousin Myron met a Parrill in Grand Forks-think he worked at Menards. This was probably 20 years ago.)
Reply to Erling Lansverks question about finding an old teacher From Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
Good morning Gary, There must be over 250 listings on Footnote for the family name Larson in the Turtle Mt Star. I have read about 40 items so far and found Harry Larson listed as school staff for the year 1938 at Dunseith No I. A Mrs. Harry Larson was hostess to the teachers’ sewing club mid April 1939. Victor and I leave for a week with Ivan and Nora in New Jersey this Sunday. I may have several idle hours to explore Larson entries then. George mentioned the passing of Greg Grimme to me at our visit in Fort Benton, MT. This birthday event quite by chance coincided with the funeral services of Greg. Marc Gottbreht and George were shocked and saddened by the loss of Greg and offer their condolences. Sharron
Reply to Dick Johnson (68) form Sybil Johnson: Cheyenne, WY.
Thanks Dick! I never heard the description of the house. Beckie will appreciate the article, for she also gets these blogs everyday. I don’t ever remember Uncle Raymond (Red) being called “Hobo” Red; even though it truly describes him very well. The stories that old man use tell were very entertaining. Like the one, about him and others being chased out of Mexico; or the one about him and others being called “soldiers of misfortune” instead of the usual “soldiers of fortune”. Thanks again, Dick. Sybil Johnson
Message / Picture from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends, Someone sent in a picture of Clint Anderson’s Cream Station quite a
Lutheran Picture L to R:
Back row
Clarence Bye, Clarence Christianson , Coonie McKay, Erling Berg, Stan Salmonson, Cliff Salmonson, Art Henning, Ingolf Medlang 3rd row 2nd row Front row  |
09/25/2009
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Thank you from Bill Grimme (65):
First of all, I thank you all for the condolences you sent by email and in the blog. I hope I responded to everyone. If not, know that I appreciate all the kind words, thoughts, and prayers.
I feel it is necessary to file a small report on Greg’s funeral to this audience, because it feels to me that all were there in spirit.
The funeral was very well attended, I thought. It was wonderful to see friends of the Grimme family there. Pastor John Hesford delivered a fitting memorial – it almost seemed that he had known Greg all his life. Pastor Hesford has a true talent and he is a comforting presence.
And then there was the music. Joan Richards was great as the piano accompanist. She opened and closed the service with “Amazing Grace” and “Morning Has Broken”. Well done and thank you, Joan. Dick Johnson, Brenda Johnson, and Ron Hett did two pieces “Wayfaring Stranger” and “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”. I know I have never before experienced such fine talent a funeral service. And, I was not alone in my evaluation. EVERYONE I talked to after the service volunteered that it was the finest music selection and presentation that they had ever heard. Thank you, Joan, Dick, Brenda, and Ron.
We can be proud of our family in Dunseith and the area. They don’t forget their own and they welcome them home with conviction.
Thank you, everyone.
Bill Grimme
Reply from Mel Kuhn (70: St. John, ND.
Howdy Gary,
In response to your query in #564 of Jerome Allard. His mother was one of the 5 Cote sisters and he is double cousins with Carol, Mary and Larry.
Mel Kuhn [70]
Reply / Pictures from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Sybil Johnson’s request about pictures of Axel and Bernice’s homes is Dick
News paper articles posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: neolag@min.midco.net Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Tim Greb is married to Trish Pladson, Daughter of Floyd & Patricia Pladson. Floyd’s parents were Eldon & Ella Pladson. The Pladson family lived right below the Ackworth Cemetery. Floyd’s brother Dan now owns the land and has a house directly behind the Cemetery. Gary
Reply from Ron Longie (65) when I asked him if he was ralated to Cote and his dad Dan. Gary
Gary, Dan is my Uncle Verlin and Aunt Stella’s son I believe he lives in Bottineau. Ron
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09/23/2009
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Folks, I sent the last group message about 12 hours ago. With the daily limits set by the email providers I may not be able get this sent to everybody now, but I’ll give it try. Gary
Request from Erling Landsverk (44): Portage, WI
Hi Gary and All;
I am writing a story about my first grade teacher, Harry Larson. I remember him very well but I did lose touch after Iwas about 10 yrs. My sister Borg Filas saw him at an all school reunion at Dunseith in the seventies. He taught at the following school
Loon Lake School #2 District 15
Bottineau county schools
Inga B. Olson, County School Superintendent
He taught there in 1933. He was an unusual and gifted teacher, and I had hoped that perhaps someone on your mailing list might have some knowledge of him and his family. And if he has decendants I wanted to let them know how greatly he was admired by everyone at our little school. I will list most of the families that attended at the time he taught if that would help. He also taught in Dunseith Elementary in 37-38 school
Here is a list of the Families
Hagen Family
Torgeson family
Amsbough Family
Helgeson Family
Fulsebakke Family
Lund Family
My sister tells me he had moved west, and I really don’t know if he has family or not, but i presume he does. So all you good people from the turtle Mountains, Please! give me a hand getting in touch with his decendants.
Erling Landsverk
Reply from Trish Larson Clayburgh (73): FORT COLLINS
From Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
Cousin Geri Metcalfe Munro sent me some photos and my response.
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09/22/2009
Folks, Bernadette and I got back today, Wednesday, from our trip to Boracay, Philippines. We had a wonderful trip. Boracay is for sure a paradise vacation resort island. The Boracay Regency Beach resort where we stayed is a fabulous place spread out over about 7 Acres with over 500′ of ocean front beach. They do not have a parking lot, because POV’s are not allowed on the island. The Boracay beaches have some of the finest sands with the clearest, warmest and shallowest waters anywhere in the world. After swimming in the ocean, it was refreshing to take a dip in one of the Regency’s pools. I have attached several pictures at the bottom of this message.
Since I have this ready, I will send it out tonight rather than in the morning Filipino time. Gary
Email address change for Marvel Hill Thompson (69): Bottineau, ND.
Gary,
It is great all you do, but for some odd reason I quit getting your emails. Could you please put my address back on. I did change emails August 1 but have been getting them until last week.
Thanks.
Marvel (Hill) Thompson
Class of 1969
My new address is:
Request from Randy Hiatt: North Bend, WA.
Gary, when you get back from your very interesting sounding trip please add Delmar Fugere (my first cousin, Lois (Hiatt) and Orelle Fugere’s son to the blog. Lois was my mothers (Delores Hiatt) sister.
Thanks,
Randy Hiatt
Delmar, with all the wonderful things folks have had to say about your mother with previous postings, it is my pleasure to add you to our distribution list. You certainly have a whole lot of relatives included with the distribution of these daily messages too. I found a listing for you living at Bonney Lake, WA. Would that be correct? I believe your dad is living up in Mason county west of Bremerton, WA. I lived in Bremerton for over 35 years. Gary
Jerome Allard’s picture
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Hi,
Gary, I think Jerome Allard was mentioned in one of your emails awhile ago. I think Jerome is Arlene Allard’s brother. She is my classmate. The dad passed away within the last year, I think. Jerome’s mother was, I think, one of the four/five sisters who lived at Good Sam within the last year, or so.
Neola
Neola, Jerome Allard graduated with the DHS class of 1958. Arlene is his sister. Without doing some research, I don’t remember if their mother was one of the 5 cote sisters. If she was that would, I think, make her a double cousin to Carol, Mary & Larry Allard. I may be all hosed up with what I remember. Mel Kuhn and some of you others, please verify all this. I do know for a fact though that Jerome is married to Donna LaCroix (64). I remember his sister Corliss Allard (66) very well too. Gary
Cruise pictures from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59): Fargo, ND.
Nancy Hosmer Baldwin (62) with her fiancé Keith Kontzie
Cousins: Ardis, daughter of Lucky and Jennie (Nelson) Metcalfe;
Dianne, daughter of Jean (Metcalfe) Maki; Geri; Ken, son of Leona (Metcalfe) Oswell;
and brother, Gary Metcalfe.
Phyllis McKay (65), Bill (Willie 60) & Al-lyn Longie
Cheryl Haagenson (71) with the judges after winning the singing contest on the cruise
Gary’s note/question
This sure looks like Mike and Sandra Zeiler (62) Vandal?
Message/Picture from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
I ran across a picture that is obviously very old. It was actually a
postcard, which was common in the early to mid ’20s. People could have
their pictures printed in postcard form and then mail them to friends
easily. This was in with my grandparent’s pictures and several others
are postcards and are dated in this same time period. With the recent
loss of our friend Thurman Parrill, and LeaRae Parrill Espe’s many
contributions to this blog, this old picture might be of special
interest to her family. The hand written inscription on the back
says–‘Parrill’s barn in the Turtle Mountains’. Actually it
says–‘Parels barn in the Turtal Mountains’, but then some of my
ancestors weren’t the best at grammar and phonics! I can only assume it
is LeaRae’s grandparent’s barn, and before the death of her grandfather
when the family moved to Mountain, ND. I don’t know the exact dates but
I assume it was in the ’20s. Can you fill in the blanks LeaRae? Thanks Gary!Dick
Made out of sand on the beach – Boracay Island, Philippines
Dinner buffet at one of the Boracay Regency restaurants on the beach.
This buffet only cost $12.00 net with taxes and gratuities. The Breakfast
Buffet was free. Restaurant food is cheap on Boracay.
Bernadette in the seating area of the Buffet pictured above.
Bernadette at the Boracay Regency. The beach is to the left behind the trees.
Me (Gary) on the Beach. Later on I did go swimming
Bernadette on the Beach. That water is as warm as heated bath tub water.
One of the 3 pools at the Boracay Regency. That is a bar in the lower right
of the picture with bar stools about 6″ under the water in the pool.
later on in the
afternoon all the stools were taken.
09/21/2009
Folks,
I’m making this a fast one today. Bernadette and I are leaving shortly this morning for Boracay, Philippines. We are going on a 3 day 2 night excursion, so we’ll be back Wednesday evening. Boracay is a little Island located about 200 miles NW of us. The island is only about 4 miles long and about 3/4 of a mile wide. We’ll be flying to a near by island and then taking a boat (2 miles) over to Boracay. Boracay’s beaches with the fine white sands are ranked #6 in the world with some of the literature I’ve read. Boracay is a well known tourist resort. We have always talked about going there, but never have.
With us being gone, I will not be sending out a blog for the next 2 days. Please keep your messages coming though. I’ll catch up when I get back.
Gary
Boracay Regency beach resort
From Vickie Metcalfe (70): Dunseith, ND.
Gary thanks for your response, below in the Peterson information recently sent by way of Dick Johnson,
#4, Emma Peterson m. Bill Childs children Billy and Donny…….They attended country school Seim School land owner unknown which was known previously as Oakes School located on the Metcalfe Farm SW corner of Holmes Township. All connected to the Lude Peterson Family
also please note #5 Vida Peterson m Jess Wilson……. Arla (Wilson) Hall long time former teacher at Bottineau school and many country schools is I believe a Wilson. I see Arla Hall out with other retired teachers, former country schools and Dunseith School ie. Millie and Marie Parrill their sister Jeannie Walker
.
Vickie,
In Gary’s message he sent me it shows a Billy Dean Childs born in Bismarck and Died in Dunseith in 1942. I think this could be the boy. I should have read his message first. Does this sound right? I remember Mom talking about this little boy being killed but never the year–just that he was 8 years old. His mother was Emma Peterson Childs, according to Gary’s Peterson family history. I’ll forward the page from Gary–actually from Vance Bailey. Thanks.
Dick
Yes, you are correct about Billy Dean Child’s. I’ll fwd these to Nancy…..since she does recall alot of stuff. I remember, the Child’s had another younger child too. I wonder if they came back once or not…I think Jim and Ella Metcalfe, while Jim was in partnership with Berg construction out of Seattle lived for a time in Spokane during the war, visited with the Peterson clan often, Jimmy or Gary Metcafe would recall this.
Vickie
Descendants of Ludrick “Lude” F. Peterson
Generation No. 1
1. LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2 PETERSON (ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 20 November 1865 in Hjorted, Sweden, and died 1959 in Spokane, Wa.. He married LILLY MAE OAKS. She was born 1880 in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada, and died 1964 in Spokane, Wa..
More About LUDRICK “LUDE” F. PETERSON:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
More About LILLY MAE OAKS:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
Children of LUDRICK PETERSON and LILLY OAKS are:
2. i. MAX LEROY3 PETERSON, b. 1897, Battle Lake, Otter Tail Co., Minnesota; d. 1963, Renton, King Co. , Wa..
3. ii. MAUDE PETERSON, b. 1899, Dunseith, Rolette Co., N.D..
4. iii. EMMA PETERSON, b. 1903, Rolette Co., N.D.; d. 1994, Spokane, Wa..
5. iv. VIDA LILLIAN PETERSON, b. 1905, Dunseith, Rolette Co., N.D.; d. 1990, Spokane, Wa..
6. v. MINNIE PETERSON, b. 19 March 1915, Rolette Co., N.D..
Generation No. 2
2. MAX LEROY3 PETERSON (LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2, ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 1897 in Battle Lake, Otter Tail Co., Minnesota, and died 1963 in Renton, King Co. , Wa.. He married MARY LEAH AWALT 29 August 1920 in Dunseith, Rolette Co. ND, daughter of WILLIAM AWALT and MARY KNIGHT. She was born 14 December 1896 in Plano, Appanoose Co, Ia, and died 20 August 1977 in Bottineau, Bottineau Co, ND.
More About MAX LEROY PETERSON:
Burial: Oak Creek Cem., Bottineau, Bottineau Co., ND
Fact 1: Buried at Oak Creek Cem., Bottineau, N.D.
Children of MAX PETERSON and MARY AWALT are:
i. LUCILLE4 PETERSON, b. 02 October 1920, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; d. 15 July 2003, Washington State; m. LOUIS HOVELAND, 02 October 1940, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; b. 17 September 1915, Perth, Towner Co., ND; d. 18 November 1999, Renton, King Co., WA.
More About LUCILLE PETERSON:
Burial: Greenwood Cem., Renton, King Co. WA
ii. MARION PETERSON, b. 01 April 1922, Rolette Co., ND; m. CARL FEUTCHER.
iii. MAYNARD (BILL) PETERSON, b. 24 March 1923, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; d. 31 August 2004, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. JOY STICKLAND, 20 October 1944, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; b. 12 February 1927, Rolette Co., ND.
More About MAYNARD (BILL) PETERSON:
Burial: Little Prairie Cemetery
iv. DUANE LEROY PETERSON, b. 14 May 1924, Rolette Co., ND; m. LORRAINE EVA DUE, 1953, Willow City, Bottineau Co., ND; b. 26 March 1935, Bottineau, Bottineau Co., ND.
Notes for DUANE LEROY PETERSON:
The Courant, Bottineau, ND, Tuesday September 30, 2003
PETERSONS CELEBRATE 50th ANNIVERSARY.
Approximately 200 friends and relatives gathered at the Lodge at the Peace Garden, Sunday, Sept. 14, to help Duane and Lorraine Peterson celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary.
At the punch bowl was Tami and Frank Gladue. Serving coffee was Gail Lagerquist. Cutting and serving the Weddidng Anniversary cake was Renee and Holly Lagerquist. All are their grandchildren. The cake was baked by their daughter-in-law Sheri, and granddaughter Heather Peterson.
The Kelvin Homemakers provided and served the delicious lunch.
All four of the Peterson childrn were in attendance. They are Connie and Karen Lagerquist, (Mike) and Sheri Peterson of Dunseith, and (Kim) and Miles Brown of Colorado Springs, CO. All nine of their grandchildren were here for the event. They are (Russell) and Holly Lagerquist of Butte, Montana, and their grandaughter, McKenzie of Bismark. Renee and and Gail Lagerquist and Tami and Frank Gladue, and Danny and Heather Peterson of Dunseith and Alecia Brown of Colorado Springs, CO.
Duane’s brother (Bill) and Joy Peterson of Dunseith and sisters, (Vida) and Howard Hiatt and Doris Williams of Bottineau; Shirley Lagerquist of Rugby; Lois Peterson of Spokane, WA.; and Mary Artzer of Algona, WA were all in attendance.
Lorraine’s family were also all present.Dolly Schoonover of Rolette; (Joann) and Emery Vigness of Alexander, ND; (Helen) and Wesley Satron of Minot, ND; Marta of Fort Collins, CO; and Morris’ twin sister (Marion) and Mike Nerple of Dunseith, ND.
(then follows a description of the program)
Fifty years ago, Max Peterson’s Model A Ford truck was in Willow City to escort the bride and groom around town after the wedding. On their 25th anniversary, that same Model A truck was at the Peace Garden for a ride around the Garden driven by Jack Peterso. Would you believe, that same Model A was waiting at the Peace Garden on their 50th anniversary, driven by Martin Peterson for another ride around the Garden?
Approwimately 50 friends and relatives enjoyed supper after the open house at the Peace Garden, visiting and reminiscing. Relatives and freinds came from North Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, Colorado, and Canada.
v. VIDA PETERSON, b. 16 February 1926, Rolette Co., ND; m. HOWARD HIATT, 27 April 1944, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; b. 22 September 1924, Bottineau, Bottineau Co., ND; d. April 1977.
vi. LOIS PETERSON, b. 08 March 1927; m. (1) LEONARD HONSEY; m. (2) ROBERT RUDE.
vii. SHIRLEY MAY PETERSON, b. 26 August 1929, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. RALPH BENJAMIN LAGERQUIST, 03 December 1947, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; b. 22 April 1921, Kelvin, Rolette Co., ND; d. 10 December 1998, Rugby, Pierce Co., ND..
viii. DARREL (JACK) PETERSON, b. 19 February 1931, Bottineau, Bottineau Co., ND; d. 14 June 1989, Minot, Ward Co. ND; m. NETTIE Z. HIATT, 11 April 1951, Rolla, Rolette Co., ND; b. 08 March 1930, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND.
ix. MARY PETERSON, b. 24 April 1933, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. (1) MARTIN EVANS, 08 June 1957; b. Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; d. 20 April 1970; m. (2) ERWIN “BUD” HOERLE, 09 March 1972; d. 28 September 1984; m. (3) JOHN “JIM” ARTZER, 11 July 1986, Renton, King Co., WA; b. 08 March 1930, Longmont, Boulder Co., CO; d. 13 January 1995, Renton, King Co., WA.
x. DORIS PETERSON, b. 04 November 1934, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. MARLIN B. WILLIAMS, 27 August 1955, Rolette Co., ND; b. 10 July 1935, Rolette Co., ND.
3. MAUDE3 PETERSON (LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2, ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 1899 in Dunseith, Rolette Co., N.D.. She married (1) A. M. (ABIE) ROTHWELL. She married (2) FRANK WOLVERTON. She married (3) HENRY J. MORLAN 01 December 1917 in Dunseith, Rolette Co., N.D., son of WILLIAM MORLAN and EVELINE AWALT. He was born 30 August 1879, and died 27 September 1944.
Children of MAUDE PETERSON and HENRY MORLAN are:
i. EVYLEN4 MORLAN, b. 18 December 1919, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. MEYER QUAM.
ii. PHYLLIS MORLAN, b. 02 February 1925, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND; m. ALVIN MARTIN.
4. EMMA3 PETERSON (LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2, ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 1903 in Rolette Co., N.D., and died 1994 in Spokane, Wa.. She married BILL CHILDS. He died 1958 in Spokane, Spokane Co., WA.
More About EMMA PETERSON:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
More About BILL CHILDS:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
Children of EMMA PETERSON and BILL CHILDS are:
i. BILLY DEAN4 CHILDS, b. Bismark, Burleigh Co., ND; d. 1942, Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND.
ii. DON CHILDS, m. PAT [–?–] CHILDS.
5. VIDA LILLIAN3 PETERSON (LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2, ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 1905 in Dunseith, Rolette Co., N.D., and died 1990 in Spokane, Wa.. She married JESSE C WILSON 10 June 1924 in Dunseith, Rolette Co., ND, son of SOLOMAN WILSON and EDITH ANDERSON. He was born 06 January 1897 in Mo., and died 13 December 1971 in Spokane, Spokane Co., Wa.
More About VIDA LILLIAN PETERSON:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
More About JESSE C WILSON:
Burial: Fairmont Memorial Park, Spokane, WA
Children of VIDA PETERSON and JESSE WILSON are:
i. LUDRIC CALVIN4 WILSON, b. 01 August 1925, Gary, In.; d. May 1982, Spokane, Wa.; m. SHIRLEY ANN BERNICE STEINER; b. 13 May 1932.
ii. JESS CLEO WILSON, b. 14 September 1927, Eureka, Ca.; d. 31 May 2003, Spokane, WA.
iii. MARGARET CORINNE “CONNIE” WILSON, b. 04 December 1929, Minot, Ward Co., N.D.; m. MERRILL ALAN READ, 06 February 1957, Spokane, Wa.; b. 23 January 1920, The Dalles, Or.; d. 15 October 1967, Spokane, WA.
6. MINNIE3 PETERSON (LUDRICK “LUDE” F.2, ANDERS WHILHM1) was born 19 March 1915 in Rolette Co., N.D.. She married (1) LESTER PINE 11 March 1937. She married (2) EUGENE HARRY PATTERSON 03 June 1975.
Children of MINNIE PETERSON and LESTER PINE are:
i. LARRY4 PINE, b. 21 February 1940.
ii. MIKE PINE, b. 27 December 1943; m. ARLENE CHILDS.
iii. LESLIE ANN PINE, b. 09 March 1951; m. (1) DALE LEE MILLER; b. abt 1950; m. (2) TIMOTHY PETE
09/20/2009
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Condolence to the Poitra family from Marge Longie Wilcox (56):Vancouver, WA.
Gary,
I would like to send my prayers and condolences to the Poitra family for their recent lost.
Marge Wilcox
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70):Dunseith, ND
THANK YOU. Dick and Gary for the information on our neighbors, the
Peterson’s of Holmes Township. My dad was between Bill and Duane in age. When dad lived with the Seim’s, Duane lived with the Carlson’s. Dad was there from the time he was 14 to 17. He left the Seim farm to join his older brothers in Seattle along with Bill Peterson. Dad and Bill ” bached” together at Meyers rooming house for a year until he joined the navy. Dad recalled many other hired folks a the Seims. Some were were Jennie Nelson, & Louis DuBois. All the hired help that ever worked at the Seim farm carved or wrote their in names in to the wood close to the milk house in the barn. Dad or Art showed me the many names that continued to withstand the test of time. I recall mom and dad taking Nancy and I across the road to the north to Lude and Lillies, where they would visit and would play cards under the light of a kerosene lamp. The article also made the connection as dad recalled it with the Oakes family. While riding one of my trusty steeds ….(Byrd the barn horse, Scout the Tennessee Walker…or Smokey…..the killer.) I often rode over or around the original foundation of Oakes school. Thanks Gary & Dicki — Vickie L. Metcalfe
Reply from Carmen Leonard Richard: Rolette, ND.
I printed out the picture of Little Prairie Ladies Aid for Marie(Eurich) Beachler and she was able to identify almost everyone.
Back row:-Hannah Kirkwold, Ella Metcalfe, Arla Millang, Joy Peterson, Jesse Millang, Kenrose Medlang, Bertha Meyer, Agnes Solmonson ? Elenore Fauske, Velma Millang.
Front row: -Christine Carlson, Annie Nicholson, Hilda Strong, Martha Handeland, Clara (Seim) Anderson, Francis Espe, Ingrid Seim.
Reply from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59): Fargo, ND.
Hi Gary,
I will list the ladies on this picture beginning with the back row (including some that were standing a little forward): Hannah (Tom) Kirkwold), Ella (Jim) Metcalfe, Arla (Art) Millang to the rt of Ella, Joy (Bill) Peterson, Jessie (Carl) Millang, Kenrose (Odin) Medlang, Bertha (Earl) Myer behind Agnes (Cliff) Salmonson) , Pat (Johnnie) Myer, then to the right in front of Pat, are Dorothy (Leonard) Millang and Velma (Cliff)Millang. Front row is Christine (Pete) Carlson, Mrs. Fred Nicolson, Hilda (LeRoy) Strong, Martha (Oliver) Handeland, Clara (Leslie) Sime, Frances (Elmer) Espe and Ingrid (John) Seim. I think Dick Johnson’s guess of 1948 was probably closer than my guess of 1951–my family moved to the farm from Seattle by the time
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
In the picture of the Ladies Aid, they should be as follows:
Back row–L-R Arla Millang, Jessie Millang, Bertha Myer, and Pat Myer
Middle row–Hannah Kirkwold, Ella Metcafe, Joy Peterson, Kenrose
Medlang, Agnes Millang, Dorothy Millang, and Velma Millang. Front row–Christine Carlson, Annie Nicholson, Hilda Strong, Martha Handeland, Clara Sime, Frances Espe, and Ingrid Seim. Gary—I’m sure the Metcalfe girls will know all these ladies and respond too. After reading the story, it appears the picture was actually taken in 1954. The roster with the picture shows another date. Stan Salmonson found the picture in the Dunseith history book on page 318, for those who want to read the story. Thanks Gary! Dick
These are some pictures that we took on the cruise. The flash was not set to go off on our camera when these were taken so they are not the best pictures. Gary
Cheryl Haagenson (71)
Geri Metcalfe (59) and Chuck Munro
Gary Stokes (65) Lorette Berube Leonard and Bernadette Stokes
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09/19/2009
Harry Poitra, 71, Dunseith, died Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009, in a Minot hospital.
He was born Sept. 23, 1937, to Robert and Eva Poitra in Belcourt. He married Leona Delorme on Aug. 6, 1957, near Dunseith
Survivors: sons, Richard, Dunseith, Larry, Rapid City, S.D., Douglas, Grand Forks, Randy, Bottineau, Kevin and Michael, both Belcourt, Sandy, Park River; daughters, Donna Fredericksen, Grafton, Cheryl Trottier, Williston, Peggy Parisien, Dunseith, Diana Poitra, St. John; 36 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sisters: Theresa Manson, Rolla, Helen Sunblad of Minnesota, Amanda Poitra, Grand Forks; brother, Virgil, Dunseith.
Funeral: Saturday, 10 a.m., in Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau.
Burial: St. Louis Cemetery, rural Dunseith.
Visitation: Today, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., in the funeral home.
Marlin (Virgil 64), you are the only one of your brothers family members I recognize. I am sure many of our readers know many of your family members. Our condolences are with you and your family with the passing Harry. Gary
Request from Lyle (61) and Sharon Pearson Zeiler (62): Rugby, ND
Hi Gary,
We would like to be included in the Dunseith Blog.
We moved to Rugby in Jan.2008 and just got hooked up
to the internet again. Our e-mail address is
Our address is 410 -7th st sw
Rugby,ND 58368.
Thank-YOU,
LYLE & SHARON (PEARSON) ZEILER
Copy of message sent to Janice Leonard Workman (56): Auburn, WA, From
Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Hi Janice, Good to see you in Seattle. Sure did enjoy your brother Bill on the cruise. We really had a lot to talk about.
Though I know you did not work full time for Judge Ray Wilson, I thought you might have been there the day Tony Christianson paid his fine for whatever. He gave the Judge and extra $20 and said, “I am gonna feed you so well that I hope your short leg grows out to match the other one.”
Tony wasn’t in Dunseith that long, I think he was Danish and some kind of a character. They all had a sense of humor those days. Tony was married to Velva House.
Hope you had a good time in S.D. for the reunion and that you found Bonnie and Keith doing well!!
Thanks Janice. Gary Metcalfe
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Marshall Awalt’s latest picture of the Ladies Aid was at one time in
the papers with the caption ‘Fried Chicken Experts’. The ladies served
the Peace Garden board of director’s annual meetings at the old lodge.
They did this for many years and used the proceeds for the church. My
guess on the date is ’46 or ’48, by looking at the bottom part of the
numbers. They continued the serving tradition for probably close to 30
years. After looking, I believe only four of the ladies in this picture
are still living today. One is Joy Peterson who was in the kitchen today
helping with the lunch at Greg Grimme’s funeral. She is going strong!
When Vickie Hiatt LaFountaine mentioned the cream cans, I thought of a
neat thing that happened just a couple years ago. I’ve been known to
take an early morning drive over to St. John to have coffee with the
guys. One morning Doug Stewart came in after I did and told me he put a
‘present’ in the back of my pickup. When I left I noticed this old rusty
smashed cream can in my pickup box and thought it was a joke of some
kind, probably just something that was laying in the street and needed
to go to the junk. We pull tricks on each other too, so it could be
something like that. I went to throw it in my scrap iron pile and then
noticed the brass name tag on the can—Paul Strietzel-St. John, ND–my
great grandfather! I took it to the shop and heated the tag to loosen
the solder and now I have the tag as a keepsake. Doug had also noticed
the name and thought I might like to have it–he was sure right!
Greg Grimme’s funeral today was well attended and even though it was
sad to have lost our friend at such a young age, folks came together to
support the family and to remember all the good times we had. Several
classmates of Greg and Gwen came to pay their respects and visit with
Gwen and Bill. Greg was buried at Riverside Cemetery in the Grimme
family plot by his parents and brother, Conley. The Grimme family was an
integral part of our community and I think that was reflected by those
in attendance. My sympathy sure goes out to Gwen and Bill in this time
of sorrow.
Dick
Reply from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59): Fargo, ND
THANK YOU , Marshall Awalt and Gary Stokes for the precious picture of the Little Prairie Lutheran Ladies Aid group. My mom had it framed and on a wall at the farm, but I lost track of it, so I was DELIGHTED to get this back, and it prints so well. I am thinking the picture was taken in about 1951. Joy Peterson would probably remember the year. I was just about to write and ask her if they still have the picture. I remember these ladies so well from my childhood–good friends and neighbors all. They made money to support the church by serving chicken dinner to the Kiwanis and other organizations; it was the best in the world!
Many thanks and Marshall, I’ll bet you have other great pictures, too.
Many thanks and Marshall, I’ll bet you have other great pictures, too.
Geri (Metcalfe) Munro
Replies from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
Gary I try to inform my cousins (Kith and Kin) of family news It is so great to tell them to log onto your blog.. Always great when a special treat appears. Thanks Gary.
Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:12:28 -0500
To: Kith and Kin,
From: “Vickie L. Metcalfe”
Subject: Fried Chicken Experts
On today’s Gary Stokes #560 web site, there is a photo of the Little Prairie Ladies Aide. I’m sure you will recognize many familiar names. Each a wonderful rolemodel. These farm women served meals at the Peace Garden during the summer to earn monies for the ladies Aide.I think this group was called “The Fried Chicken Experts”. I hope Geri Munro writes in on Gary’s blog to tell him about her mom, Ella and others’ frying the chicken’s at home and how we all have Ella’s coleslaw recipe. When,after the big serving day,they would bring home roaster scraps to feed the family. ….What about it Geri?… I recall most of these ladies in the congregation at Little Prairie and also at Peace Lutheran.
Little Prairie merged with Dunseith Lutheran and Rendahl Lutheran, the ladies aide from all of those congregations grouped together and continued to serve at the Peace Garden for special meals. However, as time moves on and congregation grew smaller that doesn’t happen any more.
Tall evergreens now stand stately in place of the old church over the final resting place of many of these fine women. Clean up day at Little Prairie Cemetery is the first Saturday in May. After cleaning up, Little Prairie folks gather around, under the trees for….coffee, sandwiches, bars and commune.
Love, Vickie
http://garystokes.net/message5609.aspx
Vickie L. Metcalfe
Geri You’d remember more than I. I think you are right about the cooking at the Peace Garden because of the big ovens. Our mom wasn’t part of that earlier group, she did help in later years.
I know for the 1980 Metcalfe family reunion that’s what we did, led by Lorraine Somer’s and Cousin Barbara Straub cooked the in the day’s before.
Vickie.
Help Geri out here.
Please correct me if I’m wrong about the ladies frying chicken at the Lodge. They used to serve 150-250, I think–not sure of the #’s–it would have made sense for the ladies to fry at home–since they served so many…let’s hear from you guys out there!
Love,
Geri
From: chuckgerimunro
To: vickie.metcalfeSubject: RE: Fried Chicken Experts
Date: Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:15:27 -0500Hi Vickie–You know, I remember that the ladies aid fried all the chicken at the Lodge at the Peace Garden, not at home–maybe they browned it the day before and went back–it was a long day and I know Mom was tired by the end of it, but it was so enjoyable for her. All she brought home was the scraps in the bottom of her roaster (my mouth waters just to think of what a wonderful flavor that chicken had–of course, they did not spare the butter, cream or browning) –the folks that were served always rushed to purchase the chicken that was left and it always sold out, no matter how much chicken there was.
Mom used to say that she didn’t know what they would do once Christine Carlson and Ingrid Seim were no longer available, so I guess that she decided to learn to be one of those in charge, which she often was after they were gone.
Love, GeriThis is the Little Prairie Lutheran Ladies Aid picture. We know the names of who all is in this picture but we do not know who is who. Geri, Vickie, Dick & others; can you guys help us out? Thanks, Gary
Reply from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59): Fargo, ND
Hi Gary and Marshall Awalt,
My cousin, Vickie Metcalfe and I were talking this week about old pictures and she suggested I send this picture to the Dunseith blog.
Gertrude Awalt had given Lottie and Vickie the picture, and they had it copied and gave copies to relatives. The kids are left to right: Jim Metcalfe (my dad), Uncle Lucky Metcalfe, friend and neighbor, Charles Anderson, (uncle of the Awalt kids)and Uncle Archie Metcalfe in front. We are not sure of the date but maybe 1924 (?)
Thanks, Gary
My cousin, Vickie Metcalfe and I were talking this week about old pictures and she suggested I send this picture to the Dunseith blog.
Gertrude Awalt had given Lottie and Vickie the picture, and they had it copied and gave copies to relatives. The kids are left to right: Jim Metcalfe (my dad), Uncle Lucky Metcalfe, friend and neighbor, Charles Anderson, (uncle of the Awalt kids)and Uncle Archie Metcalfe in front. We are not sure of the date but maybe 1924 (?)
Thanks, Gary
Geri (Metcalfe) Munro
Back L to R:Jim Metcalfe, Lucky Metcalfe, Charles AndersonFront: Archie Metcalfe
09/18/2009
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09/17/2009
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Sympathy to Gwen & Bill Grimme
From Toni Morinville Gredesky (68): Farimount, ND
Gwen and Bill–
Please consider this my deepest sympathy on the loss of your brother Greg. His death brought back many memories of our childhood. There were so many kids in the neighborhood. Remember how we spent summer days outside all day? Greg was so incredibly intelligent and unique. He represents one of the reasons I am proud to be part of the class of 68.
Toni Morinville Gredesky
Sympathy to Gwen/Bill Grimme from Phyllis McKay (65): Auburn, WA.
To Gwen and Bill Grimme, I am so sorry to hear of Greg ‘s passing. Words of sympathy can never capture the pain of losing a loved one. After losing my parents and little niece, I can only look forward to the day we will be reunited. You are in my thoughts and prays. Phyllis McKay Message from Pam Wenstad Lane (78): Dunseith, ND.
Reply from Nathan Richard (2000): Fairbanks, AK
In regards to the picture of C. Emerson Murry. Wow it is really cool to put a face with the name of the ND National Guard Fire Center (South Camp Grafton). Before moving up here to Alaska I have spent many days on that range qualifying. We are enjoying summer still up here. Last week it was still reaching around 70 which is great!
Nathan A. Richard
1LT, AD Bravo Crew Sensor Operator HHB, 49th MD BN Unsecure: (907) 873-2222 Home: (907) 869-3563 Cell: (701) 330-6563
Reply from Larry Liere (55): Devils Lake, ND.
Gary
One more thing of interest about the Turtle Mountain Creamery. During WWII that little creamery had a contract with the Army and shipped a railroad box car load of butter I think every week. At that time just about every farmer milked and they would bring in cream to sell in 3 to 20 gallon cream cans. It is hard to believe that those farmers, that little creamery, with one churn could produce that much butter. Emerson and I were talking about this subject at the reunion. I remember they would box the butter in boxes about 2 foot square maybe a little smaller. Emerson thought the weight of the box was about 60 lbs. If anyone out there knows the size and weight of butter to make 60 lbs. you can prove us right or wrong. Even after shipping to the Army they still had enough butter to supply Dunseith, and the San Haven.
LARRY
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Gary and friends;
Responding to blog# 556, Albert Peterson and the Lude Peterson’s were not related. Lude and Lillie Peterson lived across the road to the north from my parents when they first purchased their primary farm site from Bill Child’s. The Child’s were related to the Lude Peterson’s as were the Oakes who had moved on to Spokane,Washington. Cliff Metcalfe, (Dad) waded in snow waist high walking down from Bob Lambs (Grandpa’s) to purchase the Child’s place in May 1950. My parents, lived for a couple months with Nancy behind Kelvin. Around that time Bertha (Metcalfe) House was the Central telephone operator at Kelvin, then Kathy Gregory, Eleanor (Metcalfe) Nerpel was the operator as late as fall 1961. I answered the crank telephone the one August day she called ,she said, “Tell your dad to call Eleanor Nerpel”…I didn’t Which.. I still feel guilty because as a 2nd grader I forgot to tell Dad to return the call…Eleanor was calling to notify him of his mother’s (Grandma Rose’s) death in Seattle. > Previous to Carl Nelson,Albert Peterson owned the land to the >north of “the flat” ,which is now owned by Mike Peterson. Various >folks lived in the Albert Peterson shack, for short periods of time, >Among them, Elmer and Sylvia Rush(mom’s first cousin), and later,Ed >and Celia Walter and their new baby Erna. > Albert Peterson, a bachelor,was brother to Christina Medlang, also owned the land across the road to the south of the Seim meadow. Odin Medlang sold that portion of Albert Peterson land to my parents, it was their second land purchase… Dad and mom called it, both “the flat” or “The Homestead”. > My sister, Nancy,commented to me about the questions Gary >Metcalfe wrote in your blog. “Re. Gary’s email about Albert >Peterson. Does he realize it was “out on the flat”. That’s who our >dad bought “the flat” from in the 1950’s, just after we moved in to >the Child’s house.. There was a shack in the trees at the end of the >field where we used to pick rocks . (The row of trees between the >flat & the rock field.) every spring. He was Odin Medlang’s mom’s >brother. I don’t think he was related to Lude. But I’m not sure. >When we were in Seattle, remember the story Aunt Leona told about >him when he came to see Grandpa Metcalfe. He rode a old fat nag. >When it was time to go he kept trying to jump up on the back of the >horse but couldn’t make it. The boys were all standing around >watching. She was exasperated they did not help him. When he tried >the last time, Aunt Leona ran around and gave his foot a boost up, >he made it. She was pleased he was smiling and was exasperated at >her brothers.” Later, Vickie Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Hello All, I do watch the news everyday and see the world changing drastically and I don’t know how long it will last, but we can still go back in time and will continue too. My wife and I drove to Mt. View, Arkansas the other evening. There were six or eight groups of 5 to 10 fiddle players, guitars and other instruments. I can always find someone to sing, “All Around the Water Tank” for me, an old Jimmie Rogers yodeling tune. Then to Kingston, Arkansas the next week, they were singing on the square and toward the end had an open mic time. So our six year old granddaughter, Angelina, sang without music and I did one too. She said that I did good, that was the best part of that endeavor. Anyway, the people, the setting, no cop in the town, we camped on the square that night and when we woke in the morning they were singing for a different benefit, some thing for a motorcycle group.
We can go to Alaska and watch a mother bear catch a salmon from that clear, cold creek; hear the bones crack in that big fish and take it up to the tree where her spoiled cubs were hanging out. That was at Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier. We saw Alaska at its best, clear skies. No one seems to be able to convey the true beauty very well. She’s a 10 for sure!
I won’t say too much about that beautiful place called Seattle, other than that I love every bit of the area. The place where I saw two generations of N.D. people fulfill their life dreams. I surely noticed a change in scene from the earlier days with the gorilla family at Woodland Park Zoo. Now they have a more natural surroundings. It seems to me that they enjoyed putting on a show, especially the one that was a baby. If I were to guess I would say that that big, magnificent guy weighed about twelve hundred pounds, I could be off by 300 pounds or so. The big guy sat where he could keep an eye on us, the spectators and his family. When he put his big hand over his face and looked through his fingers at us, I felt he was thinking “if I could get out of here, I’d sure put the run on whatever they are. But, then again they sure are entertaining at that, bald heads, tennis shoes, large stomachs. I wonder where they are from?” And he has to observe them every day.
On a trip last week back from Arizona there was a scene similiar to one we as a family had seen 25 or more years ago in northern Arizona. It was early evening, the young sheep dog was bringing the flock home with a big smile and he was in the lead with a happy look on his face. The earlier encounter was an older, unkempt, three legged sheep dog. It was a very hot Arizona day and I thought a human being would have to be paid a lot of money for what he does from the heart.
If we can see the ocean one more time this year, we will be ready to start all over again next year. Maybe earlier next year!!!
Gary Metcalfe
y are |
09/16/2009
Gregory Grimme
December 19, 1950 – September 6, 2009
December 19, 1950 – September 6, 2009
DUNSEITH – Gregory Lee Grimme, 58, Katy, TX, and formerly of Dunseith; died Sunday, September 6, 2009, in Tomball, TX.
He was born December 19, 1950 in Rolette to Carl and Kathleen (Fassett) Grimme. He was raised in Dunseith and graduated from Dunseith High School in 1968. After graduation, he attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.
He moved to California and worked in Walnut Creek for Cordis Dow in the plastic fabrication field. His career led him to many destinations including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Texas where he designed and built commercial reverse osmosis water purifications systems, much of it tied to the oil industry. In recent years, he travelled internationally with his work. He made several trips and spent time in the Ukraine. He was currently employed by ITS Engineered Systems, Inc. in Katy, TX.
Gregory was a giving person and felt empathy for others. He enjoyed woodworking and built several clocks, and enjoyed hunting in North Dakota.
Family: fiancé, Lynn Snider, Magnolia, TX; brother, Bill Grimme, Birmingham, AL; twin-sister, Gwen (George) Eltz, Spokane, WA; and several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles and cousins.
Gregory was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Conley; and Dingo, his pet German Shepherd.
Funeral: Thursday, September 17, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, Dunseith
Burial: Riverside Cemetery, Dunseith
Memorials: Memorials preferred to the Rolette County Historical Society or to Cypress Creek Christian Church, Spring TX.
Visitation: Two hours prior to the service at the church.
Sign the Online Guestbook
Symphathy to the Grimme’s from Esther Murray Fleming (65): Flint, MI
My deepest symphathy to the Grimme families. I know what it is like to lose someone you love and at such a young age. You will be in my thoughts.
Esther
To the Grimme Family from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
I feel lucky to have met Bill Grimme, Greg’s brother. Sibbling bonds are indestructable. I pray that Bill and Gwen will continue to experience the closeness of their brother and their parents until all are reunited. Saddness is a lame word to describe the loss of so young a sibbling. I hope Bill hears many stories in the coming days that will affirm how splendid a man has passed by. Sharron
Condolences to Bill & Gwen Grimme & Message from
Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
First of all, my condolences to the Bill and Gwen. There were lots of
good times with Greg. He left us too soon, but with many good memories
of our time together. We spent a lot of time together doing things that
kids do while growing up in old Dunseith. We will surely miss him.
To Aggie–Your story about the World Trade Towers was interesting. My
wife’s brother, Greg Knutson, had an office in one of the towers in the
early 90s when terrorists detonated a van full of explosives in the
basement parking area. They had placed the van near one if the main
support pillars in hope that one tower would fall into the second,
taking them both down. The company Greg worked for had the contract for
repair and cleanup of any disaster that could happen to the building. He
never thought anything more than a water leak or glass damage was
likely. The bomb blew down two floors and up four floors and left a
cavern as big as a large gymnasium.The people who were rushing to
evacuate all locked their office doors as they left and the firemen
chopped them all open to check for anyone who might still be in the
building. Everyone doing his job! Clean up was in the millions. The most
ironic part was that his folks saw him come out of the building, on CNN.
He couldn’t get an open phone line for over an hour and when he finally
reached his folks in ND, they already knew he was OK. He was covered in
soot but they recognized him. Of the approximately 30,000 people who
left the building, what would the chances be of seeing ONE person you
were worried about? He later moved to another job in New Jersey and
watched the planes hit the towers from his office window several years
later. He now lives in Denver and and stays close to ground level!
Thanks to Marshall Awalt for the picture of Berdella, ND and the
celebration of the end of WW I. Having lived here for most of my life, I
recognize were the picture was taken. It was taken looking to the north
from just inside of the gates going to our old farm yard. Anton Julseth
had a small store and Post Office just to the right and just out of
sight on top of the small hill that is visible. The store building
became the first part of my grandparents house. They moved it a couple
hundred feet south to a nice spot overlooking Horseshoe Lake and added
on to it. At the time this picture was taken, I would assume my great
grandmother and probably my Grandpa Hans and Axel would have been in
attendance as they were then living less than a quarter mile south along
the lake. Marshall’s grandparents were living where I now live about a
quarter mile northwest of where the picture was taken. It would also be
just out of sight to the left of the picture. Thanks Marshall for this
picture and please post any others you might have–this is great! Thanks
Gary!
Dick
Condolences to Grimme Family and Picture/Message from
Larry Liere (55): Devils Lake, ND
Hi Gary
This past week Sept. 11 to 14 retired members of the North Dakota Army and Air National Guard held their annual weekend get together at Camp Grafton near Devils Lake, ND. About 120 retired members were their to enjoy the reunion of old friends. Two former Dunseith members were there and had their picture taken together. C. Emerson Murry (42) and Larry Liere (55) via Devils Lake. Emerson is a retired Adjutant General for the State of North Dakota and Larry is a retired Supply-Property Officer for Camp Grafton. As a side note Larry’s dad Tony worked for Emerson’s dad Ray at the Turtle Mountain Creamery in Dunseith during the late 30’s and 40’s. When Emerson was Adjutant General for North Dakota Larry worked for him as a Supply-Property Officer. I guess that shows it is a small world and history can repeat its self. Sorry about the Sun making the picture have so much shadow.
LARRY
Our sympathy to the Grimme families Larry & Karen Liere (55) Devils Lake, ND
I knew Carl, Kathleen, Conley, and kind of remember Bill, but Greg and Gwen must have been born after I moved from Dunseith. My mother and Kathleen were very good friends and our families would visit each other often. Kathleen and Mom would visit a lot even after we moved. We lost a Son to cancer at age 23 and when a family has the loss of a young person like Greg the grief is hard to take. Grief is something most of us will have to live with during our life time. We found that thinking of all the good times we had with our Son helped us through some difficult times. I feel it helps to keep the memory of loved ones alive. Even though we did not know Greg we are sorry for your loss since he was the Son of our mothers good friend.
Larry Liere (55) and C. Emmerson Murry (42)
Reply from Bev Morinville Azure (72): Dunseith, ND.
Thank you Verna and Pete.. each message means the world to me….as you all know Verna has done as much volenteering in this area she is truly a angel to all of us. She never asks for a pat on the back she does it cause she can . HATS OFF TO YOU VERNA SOMEDAY YOUR REWARD IN HEAVEN WILL BE GREAT…
GOD BLESS YOU …………BEV
Reply from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
Hi Gary, I would like to make a major correction on the name of the F.B.I Agent and the title of the book I mentioned in my last e-mail message to your blog…The name of the book is “The Man Who Knew” not “The Man Who Warned America” and it’s by John O’Neill, not Bill. I read alot of books,and I’m getting up there in years …..I rest my case….LOL! Ms. Aggie
From Tom Hagen (51): Mesa, AZ
Hi everyone of our friends in cyberspace!!!! We are back in AZ for
the winter and finally getting organized again , it seems to take longer
every year. Our son’s family (Sue and 6 kids ) now are in Mesa
permanently but our son is back in NY to sell the house and work at his
regular job at least for the first quarter. We are helping her as much
as we can until he can join them. We will be looking forward to
hearing from you and have already had some contacts.! We are back
online!!!!
the winter and finally getting organized again , it seems to take longer
every year. Our son’s family (Sue and 6 kids ) now are in Mesa
permanently but our son is back in NY to sell the house and work at his
regular job at least for the first quarter. We are helping her as much
as we can until he can join them. We will be looking forward to
hearing from you and have already had some contacts.! We are back
online!!!!
We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Charles Azure, 60, Wahpeton, died Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, in his home.
He was born May 16, 1949, to Martin and Irene Azure in Belcourt. He married Judy Allery in January 1969 in Dunseith. They later divorced. He married Laurie Albertson on July 28, 1978, in Rolla.
Survivors: wife; sons, Gary DeCoteau, St. John, Brian Azure, St. Cloud, Minn., Mike Azure, Wahpeton; daughters, Tammy Azure, Wahpeton, Michelle Roquet, Dickinson; brothers, David, Aberdeen, S.D., Bryan, St. Paul Park, Minn.; sisters, Jeanette Belgarde, Bemidji, Minn., Karen Nadeau, Clintonville, Wis., Debbie Peltier, Dunseith, Sharon Gattke and Kathy Stein, both Rolla.
Funeral: Thursday, 2 p.m., St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, St. John.
Burial: St. John Holy Cross Cemetery, St. John.
Prayer vigil: Wednesday, 8 p.m., Vertin-Munson Funeral Home, Wahpeton.
Visitation: Wednesday, 5 to 8 p.m., in the funeral home.
Judy Allery Azure (65): I saw your name in Charle’s Obituary and with that I want to extent my sympathy to all of his family. Gary
Reply from Ken Striker: Dayton OH
Garrison Keillor out of hospital after stroke
MINNEAPOLIS — Humorist Garrison Keillor has been released from Mayo Clinic’s Saint Marys Hospital after suffering a minor stroke earlier in the week.
Keillor spokesman David O’Neill released a brief statement Friday night saying Keillor left the Rochester hospital earlier in the evening. O’Neill said Keillor was on his way back to his St. Paul home “and is in great spirits.”
The 67-year-old Keillor had said he felt ill on Monday morning and drove himself to a St. Paul hospital, then was transferred to Mayo Clinic.
Keillor said he still plans to start his new season of “A Prairie Home Companion” as scheduled in two weeks. Some 4 million people listen each week to the long-running show on nearly 600 public radio stations in the U.S.
09/15/2009
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Funeral services for Greg Grimme – DHS Class of 68:
GREGORY GRIMME, 58, Katy, TX, formerly of Dunseith; died Sunday, September 6, 2009, in Tomball, TX. Funeral Thursday, September 17, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, Dunseith. Visitation two hours prior to the service at the church.
Sympathy to the Grimme’s & reply from Luella Boardman Bjornseth (49):
Bottineau, ND
My sympathy to Gwen Grimme Eltz and her family in the loss of her brother Greg. I worked with Gwen at the college for several years and we were good friends.
Thanks Gary for passing on the remembrances from Bob’s friends. Erling Landsverks stories brought back lots of memories. We didn’t remember him ever playing football. I wonder if we ever got to watch any of his games. The stories made nice reading. The American Legion in Frazee had a really impressive graveside service for Bob after the church service.
Luella
Reply from Pete (65) & Verena Gillis:Dunseith, ND.
Message to Bev Morinvill Azure, HANG IN THERE GAL! Our thoughts and prayers are with
you and your family. Pete & Verena Condolences to Bill & Gwen Grimme
From Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
To Bill and Gwen Grimme,my heart goes out to you and your family during this most difficult time. I remember Greg well from high school. I lived in Houston Texas for 3 years,and am familiar with Katy Texas,which really makes Greg’s passing so real.He was too young, it’s all so sad. God Bless you all with peace in your heart in the days ahead,and alot of great memories of Greg. Sincerely, Ms. Aggie Casavant
Condolences to the Grimme family:
FromPete (65) & Verena Gillis:Dunseith, ND.
Gary,
We are sending our condolences to Bill Grimme and his family. We are very sorry to hear of their loss. We were in Fargo last week for 2 days, Pete had testing over there and is Sympathy to the Casavant & Grimme faimiles and reply
From Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI.
First, My deepest sympathy top Gerald Casavant and to the Grimme’s. I’m stunned in both cases.
Second — to Margaret Seim Lawston—The story about Mr. Julseth. In early 1934 he rented a quarter section of land to a young man who was then 14 years old. That young man was my dad. Then at age 15, dad bought his first tractor, a McCormick Deering 15-30. (I have a story about the tractor too, but it may be a bit too detailed) Dad farmed that land until he was drafted in 1942. Later, another 1/4 section that Anton owned was available for rent. He contacted Dad and Dad rented it for several years. Some time in the 60’s He contacted Dad because he wanted to divest himself of property in his later years. He was in his 80’s at the time. He wrote Dad a letter with the price and terms. It was too good to pass up. The land is located about a mile south of where Ernest LaCroix lived, along the road to Currie school. Some of you who are a couple younger than me will recall it as a great party spot. Dad got tired of the beer cans stopping the disks on our grain drills. He somehow found out the name of one of the kids who used to frequent the spot. He asked her if it would be possible for them to put all the containers in a pile from that point on. A couple weeks later, when I went to cultivate the summer fallow I found a pile of containers about 3 feet high, and not a single can in the field.
When Dad died my sister Stephanie got that land. She once met Anton Julseth. I never had the privilege.
Allen Richard
Reply to Jeff Gottbreht – Reference #554 posted on 9/11
From Diane Fugere (75): Minot, ND.
Gary:
I have always known what a wonderful person “Big Jeff” is. He is a big teddy bear with a heart of gold. Diane Fugere
Reply from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
To Sharron Gottbreht Shen: Thank you for sharing your memories of 9-11. I found it very interesting how your son Ivan, and nephew Jeff were a part of that day. I had been to New York just a couple years earlier, and had taken pictures of the Twin Towers coming in on the ferry . Later that day, my brother Aime, his wife Brenda, and their daughter Vanessa and I were walking around down by Wall Street, when we came around the corner, and Aime said,”Hey Aggie look down the street. About a block down the street stood the Twin Towers rising high above all the other buildings. We didn’t walk down there cuz we were all pretty tired. So I took my camera and clicked a few pictures off of the Towers. After 9-11 I took the pictures out to look at them, and it struck me just how big those Towers were, cuz even from 1/2 or a block away I still didn’t get a full picture, like I think the top of the towers was cut off…(or it could of been just poor photography…) Anyway, Aime’s daughter Vanessa lived and went to school there for like 4 yrs. If I remember correctly, Vanessa was walking past the first tower when it got hit. She said, she heard an explosion and her and the other people on the side walk looked up and saw smoke coming from the towers. When she got to work she told her co-workers, I think there was an explosion in one of the towers, and already her co-workers said, that a plane had ran into it…and the rest is pretty much history…evacuation of her building, smoke and ash inhalation, which she still has a problems as a result of, not to mention the emotional toll it took on her for some time…She since has moved out of New York City. It would be interesting to know if there are anymore people out there, from N.Dakota who were directly or indirectly connected to that day in New York City. We are so blest that Ivan, Jeff,and Vanessa made it thru it…..so many didn’t… It’s still all so sad,to think about when 9-11 rolls around every year.
Theirs a book titled “The Man Who Warned America” by an ex-F.B.I. agent, by the name of Bill O’Neil. It’s not fiction…once you start reading it, you can’t put it down, it will take you thru every emotion you’ve ever expierenced, and some that you never knew you had….the last two chapters will leave you in stunned disbelief…but with a resolve that we all can do something…that we have to do something…Aggie Casavant’
Reply from Dale Pritchard (63): Leesville, LA
Gary, On the old crank phones, all I remember is that Willie and Margie
Hiatt and your family were on the same line with us. Our phone quit working early on, way before the SRT came into the picture, so we went without. It was one of the few times that my Dad wouldn’t/couldn’t/didn’t fix something that was broke. We still had the old phone when the farm was sold. Don’t know what became of it. Dale
Reply/Picture from Marshall Awalt (51): Newport, NC
Here is a picture shot at Berdella. It is celebrating the end of world war I .You can’t see much but they had a lot of people for that time.
Thanks for all you hard work.
Marshall Awalt class 51
Posted by Ken Striker: Dayton OH I thought your readers would be interested |
09/14/2009
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Symathy to the Grimme & Lindberg families from
Richard (67) & Ele Dietrich (69) Slyter: Dunseith, ND.
Richard and I wish to express our most sincerely sympathy to the Grimme and Lindberg families. We both knew Greg in school and thought very highly of him. It’s just not right that people his age should pass so quickly through our lives. Our prayers are with you during this trying time.
ele
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Thanks to Vickie for the correct story on the partnership–Big Three I think Art Seim said his dad had the materials and the carpenters The Mountain Home Telephone Company was taken over by Souris River Dick
Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Reply to Dick Johnson:
It has been a long time since I have had any thoughts about Albert Peterson. My dad used to talk about the Albert Peterson place. Dad and my brother, Jimmy, came back from Seattle in about 1945 and bached on what I thought was the Lude Peterson place, also where Carl Nelson lived near Lyde Lake. But, Dad referred to it as the Albert Peterson place.
When school was out and my mother arrived from Seattle with three more kids, Dad was very happy to have a cook. Just talked to my brother Jim in Arizona and he and Dad came back and lived in Albert Peterson’s house, along with little Martin Evans.. LeRoy and Hilda Strong were living in our house on the farm and had no where else to go. There had to be an addition built on before the rest of our family came from Seattle. Jimmy was not sure that Albert was related to Lude or Max Peterson. But he remembered him being a quiet, skinny old man that must have been living in Dunseith at that time.
That brings to mind another character that spent some time on the Sime farm. His name was Louie DuBois.. My mother would laugh until the tears ran every time they talked about Louie DuBois. Here was a Native American who could talk Norweigan better and with more humor than most Scandinavians. I remember Louie and Jack Hecla in Seattle when they went up in a tree and cut off some big limbs for my dad. Jack was a Finlander from Rolla, one of Lucky’s “colorful” pals. I remember my dad and Art Sime talking and laughing over fun memories of Louie and what a character he really was.
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
Hi Gary,
Wow, Jeff Gottbreht from our home town. That morning of 9-1-1 was a clear blue sky day. I was at Bottineau Elementary School, in Mr.Larry Haugens 6th grade class room watching T.V…..a history in the making….a teachable moment. My gut clenched, horrified as those planes. 1—–, 2,—- 3—-, 4…..????,….Helpless. Chilling. Numb. Later that day, after school, I, driving… through the motions, to I walked on to the front door of the store…finally feeling angry. Thanks to your blog and Jeff Gottbreht’s aunt, today years later, Earlier today, I went to the Family Bakery to have a bite before On the way home from Minot I listened to Garrison Keiller make Reply from Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI
To Margaret Seim Lawston—
The Anton Julseth you mention—Was he the same man who I believe became Rolette County Register of Deeds and served for several decades? If so I have a story to relate about him. He was a truly wonderful man that my dad referred to as “Mr. Julseth” all his life.
Allen Richard
Pictures/message from Sandra Zeiler Vandal (62): Elk River, MN
Connie and Sandra before and after.
Minnie Mary and me, my first grade teacher.
Hi Gary, just got some pictures scaned with the help of my daughter!!! Was great seeing everyone before and during the cruise.
the picture of Connie and I at graduation—crying. Laughing is so much better! It was wonderful seeing my first grade teacher, and she reallly looks wonderful!!!
Wanted to add, our 19yr. old granddaughter, Vanessa Zachman, has joined the army, and with tears, fear, and pride will be seeing her off on Monday. Our granddaughter ,Kayla is getting married this month also. Different roads, equally challenging and rewarding. Gosh, really feeling old right now!!! more later, Sandy
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09/13/2009
Greg Grimme Passed Away: Message from
Gwen Grimme Eltz (68): Spokane, WA
Bill Grimme (65): Birmingham, AL.
Greg Grimme (Class of 1968), brother of Conley, Bill, and Gwen (Grimme) Eltz passed away suddenly in Katy, TX of an apparent heart attack last Sunday (September 6, 2009). A memorial service for Greg will be held in Dunseith with burial in Riverside Cemetery. Both Bill and and Gwen are on their way to Dunseith today to make arrangements for their brother’s burial.A complete obituary will be posted with more details, including the day and time of his funeral, in the next few days. Greg was the son of Carl and Kathleen (Fassett) Grimme.
Gwen & Bill, Our condolences are with both of you with the loss of Greg.Gwen, We all know that Greg was your twin brother making an extra close bond between the two of you.Bill, You were my class mate of 1965. In the past few years we have become very close and dear friends. You are in deed a true friend, one that I deeply admire and look up to.We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Greg. We only wish we could be there with you guys at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you though.Gary & Bernadette StokesPS – Bill I am posting your cell phone number.Folks, I just called Bill on his Cell phone to make sure this is still a good number for him and it is. Bill is flying out in the morning to Grand Forks. From there he’ll be renting a car. He’ll be in Dunseith later in the day tomorrow.Previously posted by Dick Johnson in message 500Those in the pictures: John Bogus with the multi colored shirt, Rich
Campbell with the block of wood, Greg Grimme with the hat on, and Tim
Hill with the ‘ I think we made it ‘ look!
Lillian Amanda (Lindberg) Levorson
Lillian passed away on August 25, 2009 at the age of 93. She was born to Ben and Mary Lindberg, homesteaders from Norway, on Sept 6, 1915 in Bottineau, North Dakota. She had two brothers, Elmer and Roy, and four sisters, Alice, Clara, Sally and Mabel. Lillian moved to Tacoma and met and married Alvin Levorson in 1941. They had two children, Lois and Annette. Lillian was a warm and welcoming person whose door was always open. She was a born nurturer and mothered many children besides her own through being a foster mother, a sunday school teacher, a loving grandmother, aunt, mother-in-law, and loving friend to many. She enjoyed her flower garden and cooking meals to share with others. Her home was often the gathering place for holidays and celebrations. Lillian was predeceased by her parents, her brothers and sisters, her two daughters, and her husband of 65 years. She is survived by her son-in-law, Dan Macomber, and her two grandsons, Allen and Ben Macomber, and many other relatives. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009 at 7 p.m. at United Lutheran Church, 1231 South 76th Street, Tacoma, 98408. Donations may be made to the church.
Pub Date: 8/29/2009
Lillian passed away on August 25, 2009 at the age of 93. She was born to Ben and Mary Lindberg, homesteaders from Norway, on Sept 6, 1915 in Bottineau, North Dakota. She had two brothers, Elmer and Roy, and four sisters, Alice, Clara, Sally and Mabel. Lillian moved to Tacoma and met and married Alvin Levorson in 1941. They had two children, Lois and Annette. Lillian was a warm and welcoming person whose door was always open. She was a born nurturer and mothered many children besides her own through being a foster mother, a sunday school teacher, a loving grandmother, aunt, mother-in-law, and loving friend to many. She enjoyed her flower garden and cooking meals to share with others. Her home was often the gathering place for holidays and celebrations. Lillian was predeceased by her parents, her brothers and sisters, her two daughters, and her husband of 65 years. She is survived by her son-in-law, Dan Macomber, and her two grandsons, Allen and Ben Macomber, and many other relatives. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009 at 7 p.m. at United Lutheran Church, 1231 South 76th Street, Tacoma, 98408. Donations may be made to the church.
Pub Date: 8/29/2009
Phyllis McKay an all of the Lindberg/McKay families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time with the passing of Lillian. Lillian was a dear childhood friend of my Dads. They were only 10 days apart in age and were born an raised in the same community up in the hills. Lillian’s name was mentioned often with the many childhood stories of my dad.Phyllis, You too are another class mate that we have become close friends with in the past several years. You too are indeed a true friend.Gary & Bernadette Stokes
09/12/2009
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John Norman Nelson
Obituary posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
John married Della (Lunde) Cobler on July 3, 1955 in Rolette. They made their home in Rolette and New Rockford where he owned and operated Nelson Plumbing and Heating prior to moving to Lansford in 1961. While residing in Lansford, he was employed by Honeywell Corporation as a master plumber and pneumatic service specialist. He worked construction projects at the Minot Air Force Base, Garrison Dam and many projects throughout western North Dakota. He retired from Honeywell Corp in 1983 and was recently awarded a 50 year certificate as a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local #300. John and Della moved to Minot in 2003. Della died on June 16, 2008. John was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, American Legion Post 279 (60 year recognition), Senior Citizens, and Community Club all in Lansford. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Rolette, Elks Lodge and Eagles Aerie both in Minot and was a delegate to the ND Silver Hair Legislature. He especially enjoyed bowling and tournament play and was a member of teams in Lansford and Minot. In addition, he loved hunting trips in the Badlands, fishing in Canada in his younger years, local sporting events and Minnesota Twins baseball. He was an avid collector of stamps, coins and arrowheads and enjoyed metal detecting. As a carpenter, he spent countless hours during his retirement building furniture and various gifts for family and friends. He was especially known for his unique footstools. Survivors include: children, Sherry (Tim) Coutts of Colorado Springs, CO, Jana Nelson and Jeff Nelson both of Minot and Robert Nelson of Craig, CO; stepchildren, Dennis (Kathleen) Cobler of Muskegon, MI and Don Cobler; grandchildren, Amy and Mike Cobler, Brian (Renee) Botton, Teresa (Pete) Gilbert, Carla (Brian) Safigan, Ilona (Ryan) Goltz, Tricia (Tom) Luebesmier, Charisse Cobler, Jake and Casey Coutts; and six great- grandchildren. Sisters, Eugenie Walker, Mildred Parrill and Marie Parrill all of Bottineau and several nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, wife, stepdaughter, Diane Botton; grandson, Erik Coutts; sisters, Jennie Metcalfe, Nellie Bloomquist and Olga Edinger and brothers, Carl and Erling Nelson. Funeral Service: Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church – Lansford. A Fellowship Luncheon will follow at the Lansford City Hall. Thank you, from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
I would like to say thank you all for the kind words at the passing of our sister-in-law Janice. She was a very good wife to our brother Gerald, a great mother to her 3 sons,Bevin,Micheal,& Matthew,and such a nice sister-in-law. Our family is better for having her a part of our family as long as we did. She broke all our hearts when she left us. Thank you all once again. Sincerely, Ms. Aggie
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
GARY,
On today’s DUNSEITH BLOG there is a photo submitted by Dick Johnson given to him by his maternal grandmother. CYNTHIA (STRITZEL) JOHNSON. Dick also shared the THE BIG FOUR. Carroll Carlson and Art Seim always told our family , “BIG THREE.” “LUDE PETERSON, PEDER CARLSON and JOHN SEIM were the BIG THREE. ” The Seim children, Art, Alvin, Morris, and Bernice Seim, the Calrson children,Carrol, Leonard,Clarissa, Urssulla and Melba,and the Peterson children…Max. were neighboring children and schoolmates at Oakes…(Seim ) school. Whenever any of the Big Three borrowed from another, each had a One one of his last summers, Art came back from California and stayed Art was happy that the Seim meadow did stay in the family…..My VICKIE Message from Margaret Seim Lawston (54): Citrus Heights, CA
I read a blog or two about our telephone system in the hills.
This may interest some of you. I have the phone from the farm and asked my Dad for the history. The hill people sure knew how to work together!!! The Mountain Home Telephone Co. was organized in the winter of Anton Julseth was one of the leading organizers and its first Margaret Seim Lawston
Reply from LeaRae Parrill Espe (67): Bottineau, ND.
Regarding the picture of the “Gang of Lazy JS” : I know that Frances Smith Espe (Terry’s mom) and Jennie Nelson Metcalfe (Mildred and Marie Parrill’s sister & my aunt) both worked at the Seim farm. I am thinking the one by Elmer might be Jennie. Maybe someone else could comment. Maybe the other guy is Art’s brother Alvin, but that is only a guess. We have very few pictures of Elmer at that age so it was a special treat to see . Thank you, Dick Johnson.
Message/Pictures from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
Good morning Gary,
The date should not pass without sharing a few memories. Most if not all of your viewers will know Jeff Gottbreht, son of George and Patty. Jeff and two other firemen of Nebraska received advanced training as immediate responders following such disasters as we suffered September 11, 2001. They were paired with three firemen from the community of Dobbs Ferry, NY.Several such teams from all corners of USA were called up and served at the Twin Towers site shortly after this tragedy, Jeff and his Nebraska “brothers” among them. The Javits Center served as barracks for the visiting teams and in the course of Jeff’s stay the Dobbs Ferry fire engine in full splendor pulled up to the Hudson pier and called for “Big Jeff” to come out and receive a personal thanks and welcome. About 2006 Jeff was invited to attend ceremonies commemorating all those who had given their lives and service to NYC. George and I get rather tearful each time we recall these harrowing days when my son Ivan and his now wife Nora escaped and Jeff arrived to serve.
As ever any morning, I was up early playing Spider, having coffee. EJ called asking where Ivan worked and I responded the Twin Towers. “Turn on the TV now; terrible events are happening right now.” What can I say, it was all so unbelievable. I roused Victor barely able to speak, “Where does Ivan work, where does he work.” God love a duck and mamas who are so clueless. Ivan worked in the Financial Tower 3 located nearby and attached to the towers in question by a bridge. He was in a closed meeting that morning and went down to the Towers plaza with two others when they were interrupted by a secretary announcing the first plane “mishap”.A crowd soon arrived and the cries and sobs of the helpless group is what Ivan remembers today. When the second plane struck, everyone [hundreds, thousands] fled, were herded away. Ivan had run the mile and a half to his apartment and after the 6th try was able to route an email to his dad. After all, his palm pilot was at his desk! It was a long two hours wait. Victor might even have had time to put his sox on.
It took me a month to unpack our suitcases. We were schedule to meet Ivan in Kennedy September 13 for a five country cruise of the Mediterranean. Man proposes God disposes; how absurd our little plans can be. Victor and I were with Ivan for Thanksgiving. We met with Ivan and Nora and about 18 of his fast friends, the same crowd that sat down to an Italian feast with Jeff and a fellow Nebraskan two months earlier. Jeff thought it must be the best Italian in the city. No, Ivan said, it was the only place that would seat the crowd who wished to meet you Jeff and say thanks.
Ivan and Nora were married 24 Sep 2005. Jeff could not be there, he was in New Orleans responding to the aftermath of Katrina.
Sharron
 Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: neola@min.midco.net Minot & Bottineau, ND.
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09/11/2009
Carringbridge update for Bev Morinville Azure: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bevazure
Posted by her daughter Shonda Azure Campbell (94): Minot, ND
Thursday, September 10, 2009 3:40 PM, CDT
Greetings family and friends,
Once again i bring you great news … The DR was in and her tests are already back and all is well …..NO CANCER !!!! And her x ray was better then the DR expected it to be …….Than
Condolences to the Gerald Casavant Family
From Jean Nicholas Miller (66): GLENDALE, AZ
| I want to extend my condolences to Gerald Casavant and his family. Gerald and Aime were both in my class (66). I haven’t seen them since high school. Gerald sat behind me in Mr. Hepper’s class. Jean Nicholas Miller |
Reply from Marie Iverson Staub (60): Seattle, WA.
Hi Gary,
Just wanted to let you know I loved the pictures of the Peace Garden’s. I also wanted you to know I enjoyed meeting you and Bernadette at the reunion in Seattle. It was more fun then I expected and also seeing people I did remember from Dunseith also glad to hear everyone had such a good time on the cruise. Thanks again
Marie Iverson(Staub)
Picture from Jim Kamphenkel (DHS Teacher): Greenwald, MN.
Yes. I was the coach.
Pictured Front row L to R: Gaillord Peltier, Allan Enno, Keith Berg, John Mongeon
Back Row L to R: Gordon Malaterre, Elmer Parisien, Robin Olson, Jeff Campbell, Everett Enno, Jim Kamphenkel
Not pictured: Clarence Enno, Marcellino Parisien
Fortunately, I wrote all of this info onto the back of the picture way back then…I certainly couldn’t remember who was NOT there!
These were a really nice group of young people to work with. I enjoyed working with them immensely.
Jim
Jim, Thank you so much for responding to our WEB site and for this picture. I have added you to our daily distribution. Please let me know if you’d rather not be getting these daily messages? Gary
Back: Gordon Malaterre, Elmer Parisien, Robin Olson, Jeff Campbell, Everett Enno, Jim Kamphenkel
Front: Gaillord Peltier, Allan Enno, Keith Berg, John Mongeon
Reply/Pictures from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
Margaret Seim Lawston’s story of not getting enough of the water from
their well is true. I think I drank far more water from the old cream
can back then than I have since! I too remember how Mrs. Carlson
suffered from arthritis. Her hands were knotted and knobby but she made
some of the best cookies I ever tasted! She gave her recipe to my
Grandma and then Brenda got it from her so I still get to enjoy those
cookies from so long ago. I think they are from an old Norwegian recipe
because they are mostly butter and sugar—all the good stuff! She
stayed on the farm with Carroll for several years after her husband,
Pete, died in 1953. I think she moved to her daughter’s home in Minot
about 1960. I believe she passed away in 1962. I remember going to see
her in Minot once, where she lived in an upstairs apartment. One cute
story was when Carroll asked me if I could read Norwegian? I said that I
couldn’t read it but could generally get the meaning if I read through
it a couple times. He went in and got a letter from Norway that he kept
in a drawer. It appeared to me that they were sending condolences on the
loss of his mother and asking if he was still going to stay on the farm?
I asked him when he got the letter, so he handed me the envelope—1963!
He said, “I didn’t write to them, I didn’t know what the hell they were
saying—he he he!”
There was a threshing crew made up of John Seim, Pete Carlson, Lude or
Max Peterson, and I think one more neighbor. This was a partnership
called ‘The Big Four’ and they did a lot of custom threshing around the
area as well as their own. Carroll told me that some of the scrap iron I
hauled to Minot for him contained the remnants of some of the equipment
from the partnership. Maybe Margaret Seim Lawston or Don Aird can
correct me on who was in the partnership. It is a piece of local history
that I think we should preserve in proper form. It seems to me there was
a man named Albert Peterson, who was not related to Lude and Max, and
was also involved in this partnership.
My Grandma, Cynthia Johnson, had the pictures I’m attaching. They were
taken in the yard at John Seim’s place—later owned by his son Art
Seim, the father of Margaret Seim Lawston. The top photo is of the
confirmation class from Little Prairie Lutheran Church taken at Seim’s.
It includes the Carlson kids, Don Aird’s mom is one of the girls. She
is Clarissa, a sister to Carroll Carlson. The lower photo
says—‘Gang of the lazy J.S.’ (John Seim). The middle guy is
probably Art Seim and the short guy on the right, I think is Elmer
Espe who is Art’s cousin. Not too sure of the others. Thanks Gary!
Reply from Robin (Dan 75) Pladson: Dunseith, ND.
Gary,
Just a short note……..with this email you sent a picture of the Herman Hiatt place across from the Achworth Cementary to the east, which is viewed through our dining room double deck doors (Daniel and Robin Pladson). Anyway, I was talking to Daniel last night and we believe the date on the picture is incorrect. Should have been “2008”. I did some investigating with the tags on the car, they were yellow in 2008. And supposely they rotate in colors every 5 years. What brought this on is the german shephard in the background, she is our dog and the joke is “she is visiting her grandparents for the summer” and comes home for supper on occassion. Her name is Josie, and Daniel didn’t get her till 2005. Josie keeps on eye on our place, cemetary and Grandpa and ma Marchus and loves to play throw with anyone she comes in contact with.
Enjoy reading the news and history of the Turtle Mountain area from your daily emails. I am originally from the Black Hills of South Dakota, a cattle ranch(now 5th generation) that was founded in 1868 by my great grandparents, Joesph Fugier (son of Emil and Emilie Fugier – born in France, “Fugier” is an anglicized version of “Fugere”). Emil had a couple brothers (Fugere) that came to St-Dominique, Quebec, Canada area and Emil went on to Iowa and had son Joe and siblings. From what I am finding out, is that I have distant cousins here in the Rolette/Bottineau Counties. Never would of thought by marrying Daniel I would have relatives in the area. The first time I met David Fugere he said “it was about time they get a french girl in them norwegian hills”.
Robin, I think you are right. This picture was not taken in 2004. I Think instead it was taken in 2007 when we were back for the Dunseith reunions. I remember your dog and my brother Bud telling me it was your dog. I have added several other pictures taken from the other direction that include your buildings. Larry and Mona Marchus have sure kept the place looking nice. Dad used to keep all that mowed too, after they moved to Bottineau. We had a beautiful place in the hills with a fantastic view to the east all the way to the Peace Garden and Little Prairie. Gary
Former Stokes Farm Yard now owned by Larry & Mona Marchus
Picture take from the Stokes yard:
Ackworth Cemetery with Dan & Robin Pladson’s house & farm buildings on the back side.
I remember those evergreens being planted when I was a kid. They stayed so small
for so long. Gary
Cropped picture of the Cemetery with the Pladson Buildings.
Robin & Dan, I’m thinking that is the old Holmen school on the right. It used to be on the Lake road (#43) several miles west of Salem church. LaVerne Rude, if this is the school I’m thinking of, this would be your old school. Salem used to use that school for their two weeks of Bible school that we all attended every summer. Gary
Looking North from the Ackworth Cemetery on the Willow Lake Road:
Stokes farm approach on the right and the Pladson approach/mailbox on the left.
The Former Johnny Hiatt farm, now the Fauske farm is one mile north and a half mile west.
The Canadian line is about 2 miles north.
09/10/2009
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Folks, A former Dunseith teacher, Jim Kamphenkel, discovered our WEB site and has sent me a picture of the 1976 Dunseith American Legion base ball team. I will be posting that picture tomorrow. Gary
Condolences to the Boardman Family from Betty Watschke Cooley (45): Redmond, Wa
I was sorry to learn of the passing of Bob Boardman. My sympathies are extended to his family. He graduated from DHS a year ahead of me, but we ended up at NDSU in Fargo at the same time. And he had a car (rare in those days) so I accompanied him home to Dunseith at several vacation or holiday times and delighted in the long conversations along the time. Our paths haven’t crossed in years, but I’ll always remember his kindnesses at those times.
Betty Watschke Cooley
Condolences to the Casavant family from Lynn Halvorson Otto (75): Seoul, Korea
Condolences to the Casavant and Whetter Families from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Janice Casavant. Our Dick
Reply from Margaret Seim Lawston (54): Citrus Heights, CA
Hi Gary and All, I look at the blog with great interest and have
My Dad would not tolerate any negative comments about N.D. but
Reply from Judy LaCroix McGuire (59): LITCHFIELD, MN
Thank you for the picture of the Willow Lake road from your ND home. We lived farther north where Fauske’s now live for 2 years and I remember walking home from summer school many times up that hill. I enjoy reading your blog and finding out all the ND news. Hello to everyone! Judy (LaCroix) McGuire MN class of 59 Can that really be 50 years ago~!!
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Hi Gary,
I enjoyed seeing (again) the pictures of your yard/south from your farm.
Neola
Thelma (Scotty) Thompson Passed away:
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Thelma Carlson Thompson passed away. Thelma was married to Clarence “Scotty” Thompson (page 624 in Centennial Book; Scotty and his first wife’s info is on the same page. Thelma’s parents are on page 114.) Thelma/Scotty performed great music for many years.
THELMA died Sunday in a Bottineau nursing home. Funeral Friday, 2 p.m., in Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau. Visitation Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., in the funeral home.
Neola
Dwight Lang (61)
First Cousins Gary Metcalfe (57) & Randy Hiatt – July 2009 
Peace Garden Pictures from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC
Dear Gary,
My sister Cindy received these Peace Garden photos taken by Evon Lagerquist. I thought others would find them as beautiful as I do.
Brenda – class of 68
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09/09/2009
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Robert Boardman’s Obituary Provided by Eileen Brudwick: Fargo, ND.
Robert Boardman
April 11, 1926-Sept. 4, 2009
Robert C. “Bob” Boardman, 83, of Frazee, died Friday, September 4, 2009, at the Frazee Care Center, under the care of Hospice. Robert Claire Boardman was born to Chase and Mabel (Wheeler) Boardman on April 11, 1926, at Grenora, N.D. He moved with his family to the Overly-Omemee area of North Dakota, where he rode horse to school. They then moved to Dunseith, N.D., where he graduated from high school in 1944. Bob was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1945, and served in the military police, guarding the air base in Jamaica. He attended North Dakota Agricultural College (now North Dakota State University), graduating with a degree in agriculture, with honors, in 1951. He taught the Veteran’s Agriculture Program for two years, before moving to Frazee in 1953 to start a technician unit for the Minnesota Valley Breeders Association, which later became 21st Century Genetics. In 1954, Bob married Betty Gienger in Gardena, N.D. They made their home in Frazee, where they raised three children. In 1957, Bob became a district manager and traveled for the next 40 years throughout North Dakota and western Minnesota. In addition to supervising distributors, he trained farmers to do their own breeding. He received many awards in the cattle-breeding field. Bob took pleasure in music. He played in an old-time band, entertaining many nursing home residents. He loved to dance, traveling great distances to dance to polka bands. He was actively involved with the Frazee Oktoberfest. He was active at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, serving as head usher for many years, on the church council, and playing guitar in the Praise Band. He enjoyed yard work, mowing the grass and taking care of the elk. Surviving Bob are his wife, Betty; sons, David (Charleen) Boardman of Wahpeton, N.D., and Gary (Dawn) Boardman of Tulsa, Okla.; daughter Donna (Terry) Atherton of Moorhead; four grandchildren; one great grandchild; a brother, Don (Irene) Boardman of Bottineau, N.D.; sisters, Luella (Ralph) Bjornseth of Bottineau and Joyce (Jim) Smith of Chicago, Ill.; and a sister-in-law, Edna Boardman of Bismarck, N.D. Preceding Bob in death were his parents; brother Harold; and sister, Agnes Peltier. Visitation is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2009, with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m., in the Furey Funeral Home, Frazee, and will continue for one hour prior to services at the church Thursday. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Frazee, with the Rev. William Aufdenkamp officiating. Burial will follow the service at Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery in Frazee. The Furey Funeral Home in Frazee is providing arrangements. http://www.dl-online.com/event/obituary/id/47333/?FORM=ZZNR5
Janice Casavant’s Obituary Provided by Eileen Brudwick: Fargo, ND.
Janice Marie Whetter was born on April 27, 1951 in Bottineau, ND the daughter of Harry and Helen (Estenson) Whetter.She attended elementary school at both Gardena and Bottineau, ND, graduating from Bottineau High School in 1970.Janice graduated from the Jack School of Cosmetology at Minot, ND and then worked as a hair stylist at Rolette, Rugby, Bottineau and Jamestown, ND.She married Gerald Casavant on August 23, 1974 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rolette, ND.They lived in Bottineau, Ekalaka, MT, and then Jamestown.She was employed as a hair stylist at the Beauty Haven in Jamestown, as a custodian / housekeeperat St. John’s academy and at the N. D. State Hospital.
Janice was a member of St. James Basilica, the Basilica Tabernacle Society and was a member of St. Joan of Arc Circle.She had also been a Eucharistic Minister at St. James Church.Janice was active with the North Dakota National Guard Support Group as well as helping with her husband’s 4thDegree Knights Of Columbus activities.
Survivors include her husband; 3 sons, Beven (Mehan), Grand Forks, ND,Michael (Jennifer), Santee, CA, and Matthew (Alicia), New Brighton, MN; 2 grandchildren; 3 sisters, Margary (Jack) Duff, Havana, ND, Sheryl (Norman) Erber, Oriska, ND and Barbara Whetter, Valley City, ND and 1 brother, Eugene Whetter, Bottineau, ND.She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 infant siblings.
Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2009 at St. James Basilica, Jamestown, ND.
Prayer Service: 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at Lisko Funeral Chapel, Jamestown, ND.
Visitation: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Lisko Funeral Chapel and 1 hour prior to services in the church on Thursday. Memorials: May be directed to FACE FOUNDATION
Interment: Calvary Cemetery, Jamestown, ND
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Reply from Betty Lamoureux Malone Badgett (49): Fountain Valley, Ca
Thanks, Gary. I did hit that button by mistake. I meant to send the message to my oldest daughter, Kathy, who lives in Santa Rosa. She enjoys reading your Dunseith mail, even though she never lived there. But she has visited there once – several years ago, when we took a trip together to see my ‘home town’. Thanks again. And, thanks for our daily “Dunseith Alumni” mail – it is a great way to start my day!! Betty
Betty, I wanted to share this reply of yours. I hope you don’t mind. Many of our readers remember you. Gary
From Bev Morinville Azure (72): Dunseith, ND.
Dear Family and Friends,
To keep you up to date on my health condition, I created a CaringBridge website. You can follow my progress and show your support.
Visit my website in two easy ways:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bevazure
1. Visit my CaringBridge website by clicking the link below.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bevazure
2. Enter my website name, bevazure, at www.CaringBridge.org.
When you visit you’ll be asked to log in, because I’ve chosen to keep the site private.
Show your support
• Visit and keep up to date.
• Leave a message in my guestbook.
• Receive e-mail notifications when my journal is updated.
• Visit and keep up to date.
• Leave a message in my guestbook.
• Receive e-mail notifications when my journal is updated.
Thank you.
clarence and bev
From Paula Fassett (71): North Branch, MN
Hi Gary – and all:
I wish all the best to Bev and her family and pray that her tests are negative! Hang in there Bev!
I would also like to mention that my old pal Stephanie (Evans) (Class of ’71) is also fighting a battle with cancer. She has a Caringbridge site also – here is the address:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/stephaniemontgomery Please add her to your prayer list.
Thanks!
Paula Fassett-Pfuhl
Reply from Carmen Leonard Richard: Rolette, ND
Thanks Kenny for the pictures of the wind towers that are dotting the landscape just south of us along highways 17 and 3. Our son Mark and his wife Lanette (Beachler) are proud to have had two of them built on some pasture land they own. This is North Dakota industrial development at its finest. I have often said that we may not ever get an oil well,— but we sure do have the wind.!! Glad that it can be harnessed and put to good use. The geologists surveyed the terrain in order to place the towers on the windiest hilltops available.
Plans are for another series of windtowers to be built between Minot and Bismarck. Stephanie Richard’s husband- Ron Rebenistch-who works for Basin Electric, is instrumental in bringing this about.
Reply from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
To Allen Richard: Thanks for the answer to my question, I found everything you wrote very interesting,and happy and encouraged to see the organizations you and your wife are involved in.I think that’s great! I laughed but totally agreed about your remark about politicians and statesman.So sad,but so true. How our Govenor here in South Carolina,can remotely think that he has the right to keep his job is insane at best. I would like to see any one of us not show up for work for a week, and still expect to have our jobs when someone finally tracked us down. They should of started impeachment proceeding as soon as he touched down at the airport in Greenville.The feeling of entitlement from these politicians are a disgrace.I’ve got my telephone on speed-dial to every radio talk show in the area,and for anyone who’s interested C-Span is really easy to get on their open lines.Especially 8-10 A.M….”If Not Us…Who?…If Not Now When? Aggie C.
Picture of the old Stokes Farm yard taken in 2004 with the barn that was built in 1961.
Note: The original Harmen Hiatt house stood where that large dead elm tree is located in front of the car.
I thought I’d repost this picture for Dorothy Pritchard. I don’t think she was on line yet when I previously posted this.This picture is looking south from the Stokes farm. The Pritchard farm, now owned by the Lagerquist’s is located on the east side of the road just over hill to the south. The Ackworth Cemetery is on the right of where this picture was taken. Highway 43 is one mile south. From this location Dunseith is located one mile south, 5 miles east on #43 and 10 miles south on #3.This is the Willow Lake road.Gary
From Mark Schimetz (70): mschimetz@msn.com Rolette, ND.
Maybe some of the Soldiers posting photos of their time in Vietnam, knew of, or at least heard of this Man, Known as To Tall to Fly in the Movie We were Soldiers Once and young. Taken from a book written by Then Colonel Hal Moore, Now General Hal Moore. I Thought this might be of interest because it occurred during the hoopla of a politicians death, This article too the back pages, few have seen this. Edit as you see fit. Gary
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09/08/2009
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Spelling correction.
Betty Boardman, I apologize for the miss spelling of your name with yesterday’s posting. Although you did not complain, I still want to make the correction. Gary
Reply from Luella Boardman Bjornseth (49): Bottineau, ND.
Gary!
Thanks for posting Bob’s obituary. It is a sad time for us and we will miss him but we are thankful he is no longer suffering. Luella
Reply from Don Boardman (60): Bottineau, ND.
Thanks for putting Bob’s obituary in the Alumni news. I hadn’t seen it in the paper here yet.
There were 6 of us in the family, Agnes was the oldest and died October 7, 2004. You wouldn’t have had any information on her as she graduated from Ommeemee. You have Harold’s death listed. So now there is just 3 of us left.
You do a really good job of getting everything into the news. Congratulations!
Don
Condolences to the Boardman Family & message from Dick Johnson (68):
Dunseith, ND.
Gary and Friends,
First of all, my condolences to the Boardman family on the loss of Dick Condolences to the Boardman family & message from Erling Landsverk (44):
Portage, WI
Hi Gary and Friends:
First, I wish to express my condolences to the Boardman family on the loss of their loved one and one of my old classmates We are both about the same age so it tends to bring back old memories.We shared a lot of classes in the basement of the old white school, along with typing classes across the hall. All our instructors did double duty as to class, since many of the teachers were in the military or on the way, . The ones that come to mind are Stebner, Aucutt, Dorothy Page, Castleman (principal), Hannah Jevne and Mrs Feycho I am not sure that i spelled Mrs Feycho’s name correctly, so I simply spelled it phonetically.I guess i will always remember a day in study hall, when I saw Mrs Feycho standing at the windows, looking at the sky, dabbing her eyes with her kercheif. I learned later her husband had been killed flying a mission over Germany. Such a sad time for wonderful people like her a nd others as well. Bob was a member of our 6 man football team , I think I was the runt of the entire team, and I watched more than I played, I believe, I played center and defensive end and I guess where i was told to play by Glen Shelver,(our coach) i remember Alan Campbell, on the team, Bruce Cornell, Lee Sanders, Raymond hagen and others. If I remember correctly, the equipment was a little less than great. The school was rarely closed due to inclement weather, except for one day in the winter of 40 and 41, my brother Ossie and I walked over to the school from our home away from home so to speak, we thought it seemed pretty cold, but when we arrived at the school, we were informed that classes were cancelled because the janitor could not get the interior temperature of the class rooms above 25 degrees farenheight. We asked how cold was the temperature, and was told it was 54 degrees below zero, with a brisk windout of the northwest..I thought of the trappers in the Jack London stories I had read about spitting on the ground and when the spittle hit the ground it was already frozen. I tried it and it did! No kidding. Incidentally, our home away from home was a store room on the north side of Charlie Wrights cream station. Most of the kids from the hills did the same thing at that time, since there were no buses, andthe road conditions were rather unpredictabel. So Dunseith had quite a few of the students from the hills living in rented rooms doing light house keeping from Sunday night through the following Friday. We spent the week ends back in the hills, while our mothers cooked a lot of food that would keep through the week. amd of course we all knew a little about cooking ourselves The one thing that many people today wonder about is , how much trouble did unsupervised kids get into? Well, for anyone interested, there never was one inccident of Turtle Mountain students causing problems or getting into problem that I am aware of.. We knew that our parents had to trust us, and we all wanted to honor that trust.. It surely saved them a lot of concern and worry. I think it must be the air out there. what do you think? Thats all for this time, Thank you for listening.
Erling Landsverk.
From LeaRae Parrill Espe (67): Bottineau, ND.
Wedding of Karna Colby (granddaugher of Mr. Ben Grossman)
Saturday evening I had the privilege of attending the wedding of Karna Colby and Lance Monteau. Karna is the daughter of Patty Grossman and granddaugher of Mr. Ben Grossman whom many of us had for English back in the 1960’s. Karna is a medical doctor in Bismarck -her speciality is pathology. Lance is almost done with medical school-I believe he just has a year of internship left. K. Flynn Richard and her mother Minnie and I were the only old Dunseith connections in attendance.
Patty lives about five miles South of Velva and spent her career as a science teacher. She taught 16 yrs at Ryan HS in Minot and then in several other area schools. She spent the most years at White Shield. Currently she is retired and doing substitute teaching.
Paul and Peter Grossman have worked for the coal mines in the Hazen area for many years. I so appreciated visiting with Paul as he shared his memories of coming out to our farm with my brother Clark. Parrell Grossman, the youngest brother, is a lawyer and is the head of Consumer Protection for the ND Attorney General. I have seen him interviewed on the news many times regarding consumer fraud.
Both Bonnie and Ben passed away a number of years ago.
Reply from Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI.
Aggie–I ask myself that very often. Actually it is where my wife, Susan grew up. IBM downsized in 2002. In June that year her department was all but eliminated — June was also the month that her dad died of liver cancer. I was free lancing at the time, so when a job opened here I took it. Susan went back to the Minneapple, sold the house and the “toys” and moved here where she was employed almost immediately. Susan’s mom is 78, so our being here is a good thing. Now Susan is the director of Big Brothers Big Sisters in the Heart of Michigan and I’m director of the Literacy Council of Midland County, both non-profits that do good things.
Midland, MI is home to Dow Chem. and Dow Corning along with a number of peripheral companies and a few other prosperous corporations. The economy here is pretty good compared to the rest of the state, parts of which have been in recession/depression for forty years. The current unemployment rate for the state is pushing 15%, Detroit is at about 30% and the entire upper peninsula is at about 22%.
Sometimes God is subtle about what he wants — and some times not.
Allen Richard
Also to Aggie—In my years in politics I found that there are two species–not Democrats and Republicans but rather Statesmen and Politicians. Statesmen have been on the “endangered Species” list for longer than either of us has lived. I’m afraid statesmanship is rapidly going the way of the Dodo Bird!
Allen
From Don Aird (Carroll Carlson’s Nephew): St Louis, MO
I just read about the five most stressful places to live in the US, LA is #2. Several years ago my cousin was hosting his brother-in-law from Orange County California. Maurice Aird lives and teaches in St John, ND. After a week in St John, Maurice’s brother-in-law passed out they had to take him to the hospital in Rolla. Turned out he was taking too much blood pressure medication. Just one week staying in St John and his stress level dropped significantly. They adjusted his medicine and he had no more problems. This guy was so excited he bought land on the edge of St John to build a retirement home. Cancer claimed him before he could get it done. I was trying to get him to do a commercial for ND. The commercial would play in LA, lots of folks in ND didn’t want that to happen. They really didn’t want a bunch of Californians discovering ND.
Reply from Aggie Casavant (69): Fort Mill, SC
Hi Gary
WoW! Dunseith and neighboring towns without a doubt did there part during the Vietnam War. I never realized there were so many from our area that went into the military.But in retrospect when you think the draft was active at that time, it only make sense. I always felt and still do,that once they did away with the draft,thats when this country started a downward spiral with the young teenagers.Back in the 60’s and 70’s if a teenager started any signs of getting in trouble,by the time the military draft enlisted them,and they did there stint in the military,they came back into civilian life as pretty upright citizens with direction and purpose in life. The kids today….well need I say anymore. Yes, there still are some young people who choose to go into the military,and fight for what they beleive in,and serve their country,or the young kids who didn’t necessairily go into the military but became productive members of society.But I guess being in the line of work I’m in, I’m reminded everyday, where I beleive this country went wrong when they did away with the draft. Some people out there may disagree with me,and that’s O.K. But that’s my take on it from my personal observation of working with teenagers this past 32 yrs. or so.
Well you all,I better sign off before I launch out into the Gettsburg Address… So thanks Gary,for everything you do keeping us all connected… Aggie
Todd Poitra, Son of Ginger LaRocque (65) & Tony Poitra – Saudi Arabia
Bill Fassett (36) – WWII
Ricky Kuhn – Son of Mel Kuhn (70) – Kosovo 2009
Warren Anderson (65) – Viet Nam
Pictures from Kenny Nerpel (65): Devils Lake, ND.
Gary,
A big story around Rugby these days is the big wind farm that is being assembled along highway 17 just to the north of Rugby. When completed electricity will be sent to a substation east of rugby owned by otter tail power and from there sent off to consumers as far away as Sioux Falls SD.
The towers are over 300 feet tall and give quite a different look to the prairie landscape. There are 71 of them and they have the capacity to provide electricity to about 45,000 homes. Today was a fairly clear day and as you can get up very close to them my wife, my mother, and I took a drive up that way to get some pictures.
Kenny
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