Caledonia Argus

Posted: 2/28/03

Harold Bjerke

Harold Maynard Bjerke, 68, of Spring Grove, died Tuesday, in his home surrounded by his family, who loved him very much, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 26, 1934 in Highland Twp., Winneshiek Co., IA, to Theodore and Stella (Larson) Bjerke. He was a lifelong Spring Grove resident and a 1952 Spring Grove High School graduate and in 1956 attended Winona State College. Harold was in the United States Navy from 1952-1956 and the Merchant Marines in 1957. On December 20, 1958, he married Judy Pitel.

Harold worked for 4-Square Coop Oil from 1958-1979, owned Bjerkeís True Value Hardware from 1979 until his retirement in 1996. He was also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove, Spring Groveís City Council, Commercial Club, American Legion, Volunteer Fire Department, the Spring Grove Telephone Board and the Mutual Service Insurance Board.

Harold loved his wife, Judy, his family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, camping, golfing, silversmithing and most of all the fellowship of his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of Spring Grove; his mother, Stella Bjerke, Spring Grove; two sons: Tom (Tina) Bjerke, Spring Grove, and Russ (Laurie) Bjerke, Baxter; one daughter, Deb (John) Rock, La Crescent; 11 grandchildren; three brothers: Tilford (Shelby), New Lisbon, WI, Lyle (Joyce), Highlandville, IA, and Ronald (Carol), Spring Grove; and one sister, Evelyn (Orvin) Halverson, Mabel.

In addition to his father Theodore, he was preceded in death by twin sons, Dennis and Daniel.

Services will be held Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove with Pastor Zane Anderson officiating. Burial will be in the Trinity Church Cemetery. Military rites provided by American Legion Post #249 of Spring Grove. Friends may call Friday from 4-7 p.m. at the Roble Funeral Home in Spring Grove and one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday. Memorials may be given to the Gundersen/Lutheran Cancer Center.

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