Wisconsin Scandinavian Obituaries Ea - Em

Wisconsin Scandinavian
Obituaries Ea - Em


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Eckman Charles
Edwin Martha Mrs.
Edwin Nels
Edmunds Ingebor
Eggum Ole J.
Egilson Egil
Egilson Ingeborg Mrs.
Eid Andrew Mrs.
Eid Gilbert Mrs.
Eid Gilbert G.
Eid Gilbert O.
Eid Gilbert O. 2
Eid Maren G. Mrs.
Eid Nils G.
Eid Ole Gulbrandson
Eide Halvor Monson
Eide John
Eide Lars
Eide Paul
Eide Paul (2)
Eimon Iver
Eimon Ole
Einerson Halvor
Ekerdahl Hans Anderson
Ekerdahl Olive Mrs.
Ekern Alexander J.
Ekern Anton
Ekern Bertha Mrs.
Ekern Elizabeth Mrs.
Ekern Hans P.
Ekern Johannes
Ekern Johanna Mrs.
Ekern Julia
Ekern Peter
Ekern Peter Mrs.
Ekern Sesel
Elland Even Mrs.
Elland John
Elland John 2
Elland John Mrs.
Elliason Edward Christian
Elstad Edward
Elstad James
Emberson Hogan
Emerson Alfred Edward
Emilson Christ
Emilson Ole


OLE EIMON: (VALDERS)
"Ole Eimon, who died the 19th of this month at the home of his son, Iver, was born in Valders, Norway, in 1823, and was at the time of his death, 86 years and 9 days old. He and family arrived in this country in 1862, landing at Quebec August 15th. They settled at West Blue Mound, Dane county, this state, where he, in '63, rented a farm. The next year he bought a farm in partnership with a man by the name of A.C. Knudson, who later enlisted in the Third Wisconsin cavalry and served through the war, while Mr. Eimon and family attended the farm. The crops failed year after year and Mr. Eimon found it necessary to seek work elsewhere. He left the property in charge of his family and went to the copper district in Michigan, where he worked for one year in the now Hekla mine near Houghton. He returned to his home and in '68 sold the farm and moved with his family to the present fammily homestead, where he was one of the earliest settlers in that vicinity. His wife died about 27 years ago. He leaves to mourn the loss the following children: Miss Betsy of Cooperstown, N.Dak., who, owing to ill health, was prevented from attending the funeral, Peter, Christ and Ben, who are partners in the wholesale grocery firm of the Twohy-Eimon Mercantile Co. of Superior, and Iver, the eldest, with whom he made his home, and whose family made the declining years of the deceased so pleasant. The remains were interred by the side of his wife, Rev. Christopherson officiating. Mr. Eimon enjoyed the respect of everybody and is deeply missed by neighbors and others who came in contact with him. He was a firm Christian character, whose sympathy always extended substantially to the unfortunate and needy. Although he reached a high age, his intellect was clear to the end." THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - February 25, 1909


MRS. MARTHA EDWIN (VOSS)
Mrs. Martha H. Edwin died Monday, December 13, 1915, at 6 p.m. at the age of 68 years, 7 months and 17 days. Martha Thompson was born in Voss Norway, April 25, 1847. She came to this county with her parents when 8 years 9ld and settled at Spring Prairie, Wisconsin. She was married to Haldor Edwin October 14, 1867, in Rio, Wisconsin and from there they settled in Beaver Creek, Wisconsin. They moved to Emmons in 1875 where they resided until five years ago when they moved to Blair, Wisconsin. Two years ago Mr. Edwins passed away. She leaves to mourn her death, nine children: Mrs. Caroline Edwin of Blair; Martin Edwin of Thief River Falls, Minn.; Mrs. Simon Olson, Fairfax, Minn.; Mrs. Albert Zuelke of Northgate, N.D.; Mrs. Selmer Ostby, St. Paul, Minn; Will Edwin of Independence, Wisconsin; Nels and Henry Edwin of Emmons, Minnesota; Mrs. A.J. Harder of Roseville, California; and 19 grandchildren; also one brother, Pete Thompson, Nicholson, North Dakota and a sister, Mrs. Rachael Flaten of Emmons, Minn. The funeral was held Friday, December 17th. Revs. Urberg and Boe officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 16, 1915

INGEBOR EDMUNDS (BERGEN)
Mrs. Ingebor Edmunds died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J.A. Elliott, at LaCrosse last Thursday night at 11 o�clock, where she had been making her home since the death of her husband, which occurred in 1906. Mrs. Edmunds was 83 years old. She was born in Bergen, Norway, April 14, 1832. In 1853 she was married to Amund Edmunds and came to the U.S.A. the same year, settling at Lodi, Dane county, Wisconsin. In 1854 they moved to Beaver Creek and settled on a farm a few miles north of Ettrick. Five years later they moved to the village of Ettrick where Mr. Edmunds built a shop and followed his trade as a blacksmith until he was called by death October 25 1906. Nine children were born to them, five of which have already preceded their mother in death. The four surviving children are: Mrs. John H. Johnson of Volin, South Dakota; Mrs. Carl L. Foss of Rushford, Minnesota; Mrs. S. Michaelson of Wakonda, South Dakota; Mrs. J.A. Elliot of LaCrosse. The burial took place at Ettrick Saturday noon, Rev. Myhre of LaCrosse officiating. The pallbearers were Ed. Ask, K.E. Runnestrand, E.E. Runnestrand, M.T. Pederson, Otto Pederson and A. Gunderson. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 13, 1916

CHARLES ECKMAN (SWEDEN)
Charles E. Eckman, 77, died Saturday at midnight at the Lutheran hospital, LaCrosse, where he had been a patient about one week. Funeral services were held on Tuesday at 2 p.m at the Fagernes Lutheran church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. He was born March 18, 1883 in Sweden, son of Mr. and Mrs. August Gustafson. Eckman came to America in 1910 and worked as a stone mason in the Arcadia area. He married Hilda Johnson of the Blair area March 11, 1922 and the couple farmed in Lakes Coulee from 1927 to 1950 when he lost his eyesight and moved to Blair the same year. Survivors include his wife; one son, Carl, rural Blair and three grandchildren. Two daughters have died. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 19, 1960

EGIL EGILSON (KVITESEID, TELEMARKEN)
Egil Egilson, 97, Blair, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 1979 at the Tri-County Memorial Hospital, Whitehall. He had been a resident of Grand View Home ,Blair, for the past five years. A retired house painter, he was born September 17, 1881 in Kvisteid, Norway to Johann and Ingeborg Egilson He came to this country as a young man and settled in the Blair area. He married Christine Knutson in November 1916 in Winona, Minnesota. Survivors are his wife, Grand View Home, Blair; a son, John of Whitehall; a daughter, Mrs. Cora Fischer of Janesville; two granddaughters and six great-grandchildren. A son preceded him in death. Funeral services were held Saturday, January 20, 1979 at 1:30 p.m. at the Jack Funeral Home, Blair. Rev. Erling Carlsen of Blair Lutheran Churches officiated. Burial was in the Trempealeau Valley Cemetery, rural Taylor. Casket bearers were Elmo Field, Jerome Lisowski, Palmer Drangstveit, Henry M. Hoff, Norman Nelson and Agnus Olson. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 5, 1979

MRS. INGEBORG EGILSON (KVITSEID, TELEMARKEN)
Ingeborg Egilson was on November 7, 1851, at Kviteseid Telemarken, Norway. She was baptized December 7, 1851, and was married October 3, 1869. On April 25, 1873, she was married to Eigil Egilson but her husband passed away only a few years later, on November 22, 1882. Mrs. Egilson remained a widow until her death. She is survived by four children and her brother, Tom Johnson. The children are: Mrs. Berget Berg of Williston, North Dakota; Mrs. Anne John Carlsen of Ulfoss, Norway; Mrs. Margarget Ursad of Stoughton, Wisconsin and one son, Egil Egilson, Jr., of Blair, Wisconsin. Mrs. Ingeborg Egilson passed away Sunday morning, July 31, 1932, following a paralytic stroke. Funeral services were held Monday, August 8, Rev. K.M. Urberg and Mr. Roholt officiating. Pall bearers were August Bergquist, Dr. A.J. Lamberson, Albert Saxrud, Theodore Erickson, Tom Lindem and Hans Jackson. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - AUGUST 18, 1932

MRS. OLIVE EKERDAHL (RINGSAKER)
Olive Bratberg was born in Ringsaker, Norway, on December 12, 1852. When eight years of age, she immigrated to America together with her parents, Hans and Agnette Bratberg, and two brothers, Andrew and Ed. They settled in Long coulee, LaCrosse county, Wisconsin. There she was confirmed into the Lutheran faith by Rev. J.B. Frich, and there with her parents, spent the early years of her life. In 1871, she was united in marriage to Hans Ekerdahl of Halfway Creek, LaCrosse county. In 1872, she moved with her husband to North Branch of Elk Creek, where they settled on the homestead which has since been her home. Eleven children were born to this union. She was preceded in death by four daughters, three of whom died in infancy; Olga, who died at the age of seventeen; and her husband, who died on January 27, 1917. The deceased was one of the early pioneers to settle in this community and has been a member of the Elk Creek Norwegian Lutheran congregation since its organization in 1877. She was also a member of the North Branch Ladies Aid Society, which was organized at her home, by the late Rev. Em. Christophersoen in 1881. Mrs. Ekerdahl was in comparatively good health up to Friday, February 5, 1931, when she was taken suddenly ill with acute infection of the heart, following an attack of the grippe. Everything possible in medical assistance was done for her, but it was not the will of God that she should recover. Before the end came, she knew it was near, and bade her loved ones a last farewell. She passed way peacefully on Sunday, February 8, at the age of 78 years, one month and 27 days. She is survived by two sons and five daughters, all of whom were present at her bedside. They are namely, Mrs. Huldah Anderson, Mrs. Julius Rue, Mrs. Fred Fischer, Mrs. Conrad Jacobson, all of this vicinity; Albert, Julius and Helga, at home. She leaves besides her children, 15 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and a brother, Andrew Bratberg of Holmen, Wisconsin. The funeral services were held Thursday afternoon, February 12, at the home and at the Elk Creek Lutheran church, the Reverends Halverson and Christophersen officiating. She was laid to rest in the church cemetery, beside her husband and departed children. The pall bearers were five of her grandsons-Hartwig, Arnold, Helmer, and Ansel Anderson, Orville Rue and Joseph Torpen, the latter of whom is married to one of her granddaughters. Flower bearers were two of her grandchildren, Olive Jacobson and Armen Fischer. The floral offerings were profuse and beautiful, and numerous contributions were given to memorial funds. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FERUARY 26, 1931

MRS. ANDREW EID (SWEDEN)
The Leader is called upon this week to chronicle the passing of one of its most esteemed lady residents, Mrs. Andrew O. Eid who died at her home in the village Monday evening about six o�clock, March 26, 1928, at the age of 61 years, 6 months and 17 days, after an illness which lasted over a year, but which terminated more seriously just a few days ago and which was augmented by kidney trouble. Her most serious ailment was anemia. Mrs. Eid was born in Vakerskogan, Sweden, on September 9, 1866, the daughter of John and Clara Johnson. She came to America with her parents when a young girl, arriving in Merrillan about 45 years ago. She was married to Andrew Eid September 22, 1887. She is survived by her husband and one son, Oscar A. Eid, of St. Cloud, Minnesota. She also leaves an aged father, residing at Sioux City, Iowa; one brother, Charles J. Peterson of Minneapolis and two sisters, Mrs. Ole O. Eid of York and Mrs. Jonas Johnson of Sioux City, Iowa. Mrs. Eid was a member of the Lutheran faith, and a very active member in the Merrillan organization. She was also a member of the R.N.A. and has been Receiver for over twenty years. She took a very active part in all societies she belonged to and her place will be hard to fill. After her marriage they managed the Scandinavian House at the depot and later bought out Frank Loomis and they have continued in the mercantile business for perhaps 28 years. Mrs. Eid was a bright woman and won many friends during her career as a business woman and also in the social activities. Her most active part, beside the management of the store, was perhaps the R.N.A. and her church. In all her dealing she always looked on the bright side of life and was always ready to aid and assist the needy and gave her assistance wherever possible. She was a devoted wife and mother and will be sadly missed in the home as well as in the other activities with which was she was connected. The funeral was held from the residence Wednesday afternoon. Conducted by Rev. C.E. Skoien of the Lutheran Church at Black River Falls. Vocal duets by Mrs. Skoien and Mrs. E.L. Peterson accompanied by Miss Eda Melbye were given, all of Black River Falls. The funeral was largely attended by friends and neighbors from all parts of this section of the county, as Mrs. Eid was well known throughout this section. The members of the Royal Neighbors, of which Mrs. Eid has been a member for many years attended in a body and their burial services was given at the grave. Burial was made in Oakwood cemetery. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. As a memorial to Mrs. A.O. Eid the sum of twenty dollars was donated to the Wittenberg Orphans� home by relatives. MERRILLAN LEADER AND WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 5, 1928

MRS. GILBERT EID (HOLLAND, NORWAY)
Funeral services were held at the Rhode Chapel and Our Saviour�s Lutheran church in Whitehall Monday afternoon for Mrs. Gilbert Eid, 83, who died at the Community Hospital February 3 following a major operation. The Rev. O. G. Birkeland officiated at the last rites and accompanied the remains to Eau Claire, where interment was in the Norwegian Lutheran cemetery. A group of women from the Senior Choir sang �Asleep in Jesus,� �Ivory Palaces,� and �Sun of My Soul� at the church and Kiel Blank sang �Behold a Host Arrayed in White.� Pallbearers were Alf Wilberg, Clark Anderson and Alvin Speerstra of Whitehall, Albert and Orville Eid of Pigeon and Claude Broaddus of Eau Claire. Maren Emilie Kristopherson, the seventh daughter of Kristopher Kristopherson and Christine Peterson, as born in Holland, Norway, February 12, 1860. She was baptized in March of the same year by the Reverend Hartman at Urskaug�s. She received her education in Norway, and at the age of 24 she came to America and settled in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where three sisters were living. Her mother, father and four sisters died in the old country, where two brothers remain. In August 1885, she was united in marriage to Anders Foss, to which union eight children were born, four dying in infancy. Her husband passed away in April 1900, and two daughters, Carolyn, Mrs. Peter Speerstra in 1922 and Mabel, Mrs. Jalmar Lien, in 1923. In March 1912 she was joined in marriage to Gilbert O. Eid of Pigeon Falls. They made their home there until Mr. Eid�s death in April 1937. Since that time she has made her home with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Speerstra at Whitehall. She lived a useful and active life until her death on February 3. Had she lived until February 12, she would have been 83 years old. Surviving are two daughters, Anna, Mrs. Richard Lieske of Eau Claire and Josephine, Mrs. Peter Speerstra of Whitehall; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother in Norway; two stepsons, Albert and Orville Eid of Pigeon; and five step-daughters, Mrs. Charles Borreson of Blair, Mrs. Eddie Goplin of Hale, Mrs. Nora Johnson of LaCrosse, Mrs. Hans Severson and Miss Clara Eid of Pigeon. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 11, 1943

GILBERT O. EID (BLAKJER, ROMERIKE)
Gilbert O. Eid was born in Blakjer, Romerike, Norway, June 14, 1858, of the parents Ole and Marte (Thoreid) Eid. He was baptized into the Christian faith by the Reverend Skjonheider. In 1871 he came with his parents and brothers to America, reaching their destination, Spring Grove, Minn., on his 14th birthday. In the fall of that same year the family moved to Pigeon Falls, making the trip from Brownsville, Minn., to Trempealeau by boat, and from Trempealeau to Pigeon Falls by oxen, the last lap of the journey requiring two days. His father purchased what was known as the Bill Oliver farm in Hegge coulee. Here Gilbert resided until he bought the farm which has been his home for the past 36 years. In July 3, 1882, he was united in marriage to Karen Koxlien, the ceremony being performed by the Reverend Oppegaard in the old Fenny church near Taylor. They established their home on the farm in Hegge coulee which Mr. Eid had recently purchased. Later the family moved to the old Eid homestead and in 1900 the present commodious farm home was erected. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Eid; namely, May, now Mrs. Charles Borreson of Blair; and Mrs. Nora Johnson; Clara; Ella, now Mrs. Eddie Goplin; Anna, now Mrs. H.J. Severson; Albert and Orvil, all of Pigeon. Mrs. Eid passed away September 20, 1907. Two brothers Ole and Marius also preceded him in death. On March 25, 1912, he was married to Mrs. Maren Emelie Foss of Eau Claire, who survives him. In his early manhood Mr. Eid spent many winters in the pineries as an ox teamster. For 27 seasons he was engaged in operating a threshing outfit with his brother, Andrew Eid of Merrillan. Besides operating his farm he was often engaged in breaking new land for farmers in the neighboring coulees, much of this work being done with oxen. In later years he loved to recall the episodes of those earlier days. Mr. Eid was highly respected in the community and was a leader in various organizations. He was prominent in the organization of the Pigeon Cooperative creamery and the Community Hospital at Whitehall. For many years he was deacon of the United Lutheran congregation at Pigeon Falls, and held this position at the time of his death. Mr. Eid was hard-working and thrifty, honest and upright in all his dealings. He was a kind and considerate husband and father and a sincere Christian. He will be sadly missed by his many relatives and friends. The past few years his health has been failing and on January 5, 1937, he was taken seriously ill with a heart attack, from which he did not recover After an illness of about three months, he died on April 10, having reached the age of 78 years, 9 months and 26 days. He leaves to mourn his death besides his wife and children, three brothers, Andrew Eid of Merrillan, Ole Eid and Hans Eid of Northfield; two step-daughters, Mrs. R.J. Lieske of Eau Claire, and Mrs. Peter Speerstra of Whitehall, 17 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. The United Lutheran church was filled to capacity for the funeral services held Wednesday afternoon, April 14, at 2 o�clock preceded by services at the home. The Rev. H.A. Oerke officiated and the Rev. A.J. Oerke spoke in Norwegian. Pallbearers were John F. Johnson, J.J. Staff, Edward Jacobson, Peter Koxlien, E.A. Hegge and Anton A. Fremstad, and two granddaughters, Eleanor and Janice Eid carried flowers. In addition to the profuse floral tribute, large sums were given by relatives and friends as memorial to various charitable and religious organizations in his honor. The Revs. A.J. and H.A. Oerke sang �Stille Hvad Omsker Du Mer?� at the service, and Mrs. E.A. Sletteland contributed a vocal solo, �In My Father�s House Are many Mansions�. Life is ended, The battle fought and won; With joy unblended I greet the set of sun. My Soul now rest thee Forever tired of earth; At last divest thee Of buckler, shield and girth; Arise and haste thee To Heavenly glories forth. WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 29, 1937

NILS G. EID (OSLO)
Nils G. Eid died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.J. Eaker at Cowiche, Washington, June 11, 1935. Mr. Eid was born September 3, 1843, near Oslo, Norway, and came to the United States when a young man. He located on a farm near Pigeon Falls, where he lived for several years. Later he purchased a farm in Irvin Coulee one mile from Whitehall, where he made his home for a number of years. When he sold his place he left on a trip to visit his old home in Norway. In 1906, he went to the state of Washington, where he remained. The family includes one daughter, Mrs. EJ. Eaker, Cowiche Washington; three sons Gilbert T. Eid, who lives in Montana; Neil M. Eid, Kakima, Washington and Wilfred Eid Parker, Seattle, Washington, and two granddaughters of Yakima, Washington. Funeral services were held in the Chapel of Webb�s Funeral Parlors, June 14. The Rev. C. Arthur Johnson pastor of the Central Lutheran Church, delivered the funeral sermon. Burial was made in Terrace Heights Memorial Park, Yakima, Washington. THE WHITEHALL TIMES -= JUNE 27, 1935

GILBERT G. EID (BLAKJOR)
Gilbert G. Eid passed away Tuesday morning September 13, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Christopherson, at the age of 87 years, 8 months and 8 days. Mr. Eid was born at Eidsgard in Blakjor, Norway, January 4, 1834. On May 13, 1871, he was united in marriage to Maren Jacobson Stagrim, and they came to America the same year. They bought land in the town of Pigeon, Trempealeau county, where they resided. He was a member of the U.L. Church at Pigeon Falls. In 1911 on account of sickness, they moved to the home of their daughter, Mrs. John Christopherson. In the fall of 1907 she suffered a stroke of paralysis and was very ill for some time after, but recovered sufficiently to be up but in almost a helpless condition. The past four years he was confined to his bed and entirely helpless, but was always patient and uncomplaining. On Tuesday morning, September 13, at half past eight, he went to his longed for rest. He leaves to mourn his death his wife and three daughters: Mrs. John Christopherson and Mrs. Hans C. Johnson of Osseo and Mrs. Ludvig Alseth of Galesville, sixteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; also one brother Nels of the state of Washington, one sister in Norway and other relatives. The funeral was held on Friday, September 15, at the house and at the Elk Creek Lutheran church at Hale, Rev. Preus officiating. The pall bearers were six of his grandchildren: Gilbert, Helmer and Erling Johnson, Arthur Eid, Joel Tomter and Ralph Herman. He was laid to rest in the Hale Lutheran cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMER 29, 1921

JOHN EIDE (ROMSDALEN)
John Eide was born in Romsdalen, Norway, February 2, 1864, the son of Joe and Ellen Eide. In the year 1882, he came to America at the age of 18 years. In 1900 he was united in marriage to Tillia Amundson. They made their home on the farm in Bruce Valley, where he lived until taken by death. To this union nine children were born. One child preceded him in death in 1917. Mr. Eide�s health had been excellent until he was taken sick a month ago. He passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 20, 1934, at the Community Hospital at the age of 70 years and 10 months. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife and eight children, as follows: Mrs. Hartwig Bergerson, Joseph, Mrs. Morton Gunderson, Arup, Reuben, Leonard, Valborg and Harry. There are also five grandchildren. Besides his family he leaves two brothers and two sisters, Paul of Strum, Lars and Mrs. Christ Amundson of Osseo and Mrs. Martin Baker of Eau Claire, and a large number of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe at the home and the St. Paul�s church at Strum Friday, November 23. Pallbearers were Theodore, Arnold, Johnny and Millard Eide, William and Martin Amundson. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 29, 1934

MRS. MAREN G. EID (BLAKJOR)
Maren Johanne Eid passed way at 3 o�clock Thursday morning, August 10, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jon Christopherson, at the age of 72 years, 5 months, 5 weeks and 2 days. Mrs. Eid was born at Blakjor, Norway, Febrary 18, 1850. May 13, 1971, she was united in marriage to Gulbrand Gulbrandson Eid of Blakjor, and they came to America the same year. They bought land in the town of Pigeon, Trempealeau county, where they resided. She was a member of the U.L. Church at Pigeon Falls. Her husband died September 13, 1921. She was sick for seven months with heart trouble. During her long illness much was done in medical aid to relieve her sufferings. She awaited her Saviour�s call and passed away quietly and peacefully. Her last wish was to have the Bible text at the house. Chapter 19-24 and 25th verses in Job�s Book and at the church, Chapter 4 in St. Paul�s 1s letter to the Thessalonians from the 13th verse to the end. She leaves to mourn her death three daughters Mrs. Hans C. Johnson and Mrs. John Christopherson of Osseo and Mrs. Ludwig Alseth of Galesville, 16 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and other relatives. The funeral services were held on Monday, August 14, at the house and at the Elk Creek Lutheran church at Hale, Rev. E.B. Christopherson officiating in the absence of Rev.Preus. The pallbearers were six of her grandchildren: Gilbert, Helmer and Erling Johnson, Ralph Hermann, Joel Tomter and Artur Eide. She was laid to rest beside her husband in the Hale Lutheran cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMBER 7, 1922

HALVOR MONSON EIDE (SONFJORD)
Halvor Monson Eide died at the home of his son, Hans Monson, on the Archie Wood farm about a mile east of Whitehall, Friday morning, the 22nd ult. Deceased was born in Sonfjord, Norway, September 7, 1836. On July 31, 1861 he married Berthe Nilsdatter Bjorik, with whom he had nine children. He came to the United States in 1871, setting near Pigeon Falls in Jackson county, where he resided for a short time. He lived in Plum Creek valley for a year or two, and then lived in Trempealeau county near Pigeon Falls until 1900, when he moved to his place just east of the village limits. He is survived by his wife, and four children as follows: Nels Monson of Hamilton, Montana; Matt Monson of Moline, North Dakota; Constance Dudgeon of Menomonie, Wisconsin; and Hans Monson of Whitehall, Wisconsin. His funeral was held in the U.L. church in this village on the 25th ult., Rev. A.J. Orke officiating. His body was interred in the Whitehall cemetery. Mr. Monson was one of the kindest and most helpful of men. His record as a citizen was unspotted. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - FEBRUARY 4, 1915

PAUL EIDE (VAAGE, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Funeral services for Paul Eide, 80, were held Monday at the Strum home and at St. Paul�s Lutheran church in that village, the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe officiating. Burial was in St. Paul�s cemetery. Mr. Eide, son of Jon Larson Eide and Ellie Eide, was born in Vaage, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, January 1, 1859. At the age of four he moved with his parents to Romsdalen, where he spent his childhood and youth. Fifty-seven years ago, in 1882, he and his father came to the United States while the rest of the family remained in Norway until the first two had found a suitable homestead. Paul and his father came to Strum and found temporary living quarters on the Bjornstad farm in Johnson valley. A year later they bought the farm in Bruce Valley which eventually became Paul�s and which he owned at the time of his death. Other members of the family then immigrated and established farms in Bruce Valley. On November 22, 1890, Mr. Eide married Millie Amundson. To them nine children were born, eight of whom beside his wife survive their father. They are Thea, Arthur and Elvina, Osseo; Johnny, Palmer, Mabel, Ruth and Millard of Strum. There are also two sisters and one brother of the deceased still living, and 34 grandchidren. A son, Magnus, died in infancy. Five years ago Mr. Eide was hurt in an accident which caused mental disturbances from which he never fully recovered. He died Thursday, July 13. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JULY 20, 1939

HANS ANDERSON EKERDAHL (RINGSAKER)
Hans Anderson Ekerdahl passed away at his home in the town of Unity, January 27, at 4:35 o�clock, after a long illness of progressive muscular-atrophy. Deceased was born at Ringsaker, Norway, on the 14th day of July, 1845. In 1858 he came with his parents to America and settled at Halfway Creek, LaCrosse county, where he grew to manhood. In 1871 he was united in marriage to Olena Bratberg. In 1872 they came to Unity where they have since resided. Eleven children were born to them. The widow and seven children survive, as follows: Mrs. Albert Anderson of Sumner, Mrs. Julius Rue of Scranton, North Dakota; Mrs. Fred Fischer of Hale; Albert, Julia, Tena and Helga at home, all being present at his bedside. He also leaves 13 grandchildren, two sisters and a brother, Mrs. E. Solie of Granville, North Dakota, Mrs. C. Jordson of West Salem and Alfred Hanson of Onalaska. He was a member of the Synod Lutheran church of Hale at which the funeral services were held July 31, Rev. Folkstad officiating. In the death of Mr. Ekerdahl the town of Unity loses one of its most prominent pioneers and the church one of its best workers, but our loss is his gain. The pall bearers were Andrew Johnson, Christ Balstad, Andrew Rue, Olaus Christopherson, Bernt Stensby and Gilbert Nettom. THE WHIEHALL TIMES-BANNER, FEBRUARY 8, 1917

HALVOR EINERSON (SOLAR)
Halvor Einerson, of Maule Coulee, died rather suddenly Tuesday, having been in his usual health until the preceding day. Mr. Einerson was born in Solar County, Norway April 20, 1836. In 1860 he married Annie Gunderson and came to the United States with his family in November 1888. They made their home near Eau Claire for about 15 years. The past 14 years he has resided on a farm in Maule Coulee. He was the father of nine children, four of whom are living: Sever, of this place; Ed. of Seattle, Washington; Andrew of Drummond, Minnesota; and Einer, of Eau Claire. The funeral will be held today from the Lutheran church in the village. Reprinted from the INDEPENDENCE NEWS THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - MARCH 1, 1917

JOHANNES EKERN (BIRI)
One of the oldest inhabitants of our village has passed on. Johannes Ekern died Monday night at 11:00 o�clock. He was little known by the present generation because those who now are the general public were all very young when he was in his early old age. Mr. Ekern was one of those hardy Norsemen who came to this country during the early immigration period. He is numbered with those who founded towns, schools and churches in these parts in the early days. He was of another generation than our own. To make it more clear - many of our present businessmen were born in this 20th century and Mr. Ekern was already nearly sixty years old before this century began. He was of voting age during the days when Abraham Lincoln was our president. Because of his great age, his old pals have long since died, and he has been out of place in an altogether new generation and manner of life. He is to be honored with the other builders of this great west, most of whom are now resting. Johannes Ekern was born in Biri, Norway on December 13, 1842 to the parents, Per Ekern and his wife, Sofie Monsdatter. He was baptized and confirmed in the Biri church. His professional training consisted in learning painter�s trade. In 1887 he emigrated to America and came to these parts. He followed his trade of painting here in America also. He made his home with his brother, Kristian, in Lakes Coulee, where he remained until removal to Blair. In 1926 when Kristian died, his sister, Sesel, made a home for him in their little home down by the river. In June of 1932 when the terrific heat oppressed the entire territory, he was overcome by the heat and was prostrated. Since then he has been bed-ridden. His sister, Sesel, cared for him until her death in the winter of the same year. During last year he was cared for by the Cornell Hanson family who have made their home with him. Mr. Ekern never married. Death came as a welcome visitor to this old man whose memory was unable to retain any contemporary events, on Monday night, January 15, 1934. The older people who knew Johannes, say that he was most lovable personality full of both kindness and magnetism. For all he always had a smile and a kind word. He leaves no brothers or sisters, all having preceded him in death. They are: Mattias in Norway, Ole in Norway, Lisa in Norway, Sesel in Blair, Hans in Ettrick and Kristian in Blair. Funeral services were conducted from the home and from the First Lutheran church on Friday, January 19. Rev. Urberg, who was born when Mr. Ekern was over 60 years old, conducted the last rites. Interment was made in the Fagnernes cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 25, 1934

MRS. ELIZABETH EKERN (OIER, BUDBRANDSDALEN)
Elizabeth Grimsrud Ekern died at Madison, Wisconsin, April 28, 1924. She was born in Oier, Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, May 31, 1947. At the age of ten she came with her parents, Lars and Elizabeth Grimsrud, to Vernon county, Wisconsin. On her marriage to Even Ekern in 1872 they settled in a farm in the town of Pigeon, Trempealau County, Wisconsin. In 1887 they moved to Whitehall, and 1896 to Superior, and in 1905 to Madison, Wisconsin. Mr. Ekern died June 8, 1920. They had eight children. One died in infancy. The youngest, Ruth Ekern Swan died at Seattle, Washington, in 1911. The children surviving are Herman L. Ekern, Mrs. Fred W. (Lena) Hemminghaus and Mrs. Alice O Rood, of Madison; Lawrence M. Ekern of Pasadena, California; Emil A. Ekern of Boston, Massachusetts, and Mrs. George D. (Helen) Swan of Kyoto, Japan. Mrs. Ekern was the youngest and last surviving of a large family of brothers and sisters. She was a member of the Bethel Lutheran church. The funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. F.W. Hemminghaus on Wednesday afternoon. The pall bearers were H.C. Danielson, Thomas Herreid, H.T. Lordahl, Andrew Vick, Milo Kittleson and Elliott Olson. The interment was at the Forest Hill cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 8, 1924

HANS P. EKERN (BIRI)
Hans P. Ekern, an old resident of the town of Gale, died Wednesday, April 7th, at his home on the east side of the town. He had been ill for a considerable period, suffering a stomach trouble. Funeral services were held Monday from the home conducted by Rev. Urberg of Blair. Mr. Ekern had been a resident of Trempealeau County since 1875, when he came to this country from Norway. He was born at Biri in his native land in 1846. Soon after reaching America, he was married to Helen Larson and they settled on a farm which since then has been the Ekern home. Nine children were born to them, five of whom with the widow survive. The children are Mrs. Clem Olson, Mrs. Emile Evenson and Mrs. Alfred Mahlum of the Town of Ettrick, and Harry and Selmer Ekern, living at home. Two brothers, Charles and John Ekern, live in Plum Creek, this county; another brother, Ole, is on the old farm in Norway, and a sister, Miss Sissel Ekern resides in Winona. Mr. Ekern was a substantial citizen and in his earlier years was active in the affairs of his community. Rewritten from the GALESVILLE REPUBLICAN THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - APRIL 22, 1915

MRS. PETER EKERN (FRATTEN, GULBRANDSDALEN)
As the year 1930 dawned, the life of Mrs. Peter Ekern came to a close at the Community hospital, which added additional sorrow to the Peter Ekern family which has been visited by death many times during the past few years. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the farm home in the town of Pigeon and at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church at Whitehall, Rev. Haakestad and Rev. Orke conducted the services. Neighbors of the deceased: Carl Tomte, Jens Berge, Iver Iverson, O.J. Galstad, Peter Simonson and L.J. Schansberg conveyed the body to its resting place in the Old Whitehall cemetery. Undertakers Mr. And Mrs. J.E. Rhode were in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Peter Ekern, whose maiden name was Cardine Rudd, was born in Fratten Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, July 31, 1867. She came to America in 1891. On May 25, 1895, she was united in marriage with Peter Ekern at Coon Valley, Wisconsin. They moved to their present home in the town of Pigeon in 1901. To Mr. and Mrs. Ekern, seven children were born. Of these, Magnus died in infancy; Cora in 1927 and Magda in 1928. Besides her husband, her departure is mourned by the following children: Lucas of Whitehall; Oswald of Pipestone, Minnesota; Clara of Chicago, Illinois; and Noble also of Whitehall. She also leaves a brother, Edward Ruud of Westby and two sisters, Mrs. Laura Gullord of Long Beach, Califiornia and Randina in Norway. Mrs. Ekern�s last years of life have been fraught with trial and sorrow and for two years she has known what it is to suffer intense bodily pain. Eager to live, if that was her Heavenly Father�s will, she sought the means of doctors and hospitals for the alleviation of her pain and the possible cure of her illness. But she always preserved a Christian patience, that, under such affliction, can only be explained as a fruit of faith in Christ and as a following in the footsteps of Him who bore the Cross for the whole world. All who knew of her great sufferings unite in bringing thanks to God, that she is now delivered from these pains and in the hands of God. Her age was 62 years and 5 months. Monetary memorials were made by family and friends to Rev. Hofstad�s mission in Madagascar, the Old Peoples Home at Stoughton, missions, the Old People Home at Wittenberg and the Orphans Home at Wittenberg. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 9, 1930

MRS. BERTHA EKERN (NORWAY?)
Mrs. Bertha Ekern passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Carl Smikrud in Hardies Creek, Saturday, July 25, at the age of fifty-eight years and three months. She was united in marriage to Albert Ekern May 30th, 1890. Five children were born to this union, four of whom are living to mourn the loss of a fond mother. The surviving children are: Arthur O. of Ettrick, Mrs. Carl Smikrud, Miss Hilda and Alvin of Hardies Creek. The deceased was born on the ocean on the steamship Victoria and settled with her parents in LaCrosse county. For the pas thirty years, the Ekern homestead in Hardies Creek has been her home. Her husband preceded her in death six year ago. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon. Interment was made in the Hardies Creek cemetery. A long line of old time friends gathered at this time to pay their last respects to Mrs. Ekern. Rev. Reque of Galesville officiated. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - JULY 31, 1925

MRS. JOHANNA EKERN (NORWAY)
Mrs. Johanna Ekern for nearly seventy years a resident of Hardies Creek died February 17th. The aged woman suffered a stroke while at the breakfast table. The end came at 2 o�clock in the afternoon. Funeral services were held Tuesday, from the home and the church in Hardies Creek, conducted by Pastor L.S. Reque. A large congregation assembled to pay final tribute to the pioneer, who was the oldest resident of the community. Mrs. Ekern was born in Norway December 18, 1843. Her maiden name was Johanna Johnson. Her father died when she was a child of five years. At the age of 18 she sailed with her mother for America. They settled in Hardies Creek, and there in 1863 the daughter married Gilbert Ekern. Mr. Ekern died thirty-four years ago. The surviving children are five sons and two daughters. Alice resides in California, August is on the old farm; Julius is a farmer near Ettrick and Albert, in Beaver Creek. George is temporarily at a Madison hospital. The daughters are Marie Saustom, Rice Lake, and Mrs. Oscar Paulson, Galesille. Rewritten from the GALESVILLE REPUBLICAN THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - MARCH 4, 1927

JULIA EKERN (ENEBAK)
Julia Ekern passed away at her home in Blair on Thanksgiving Day, November 29, 1928, after a long period of illness, death being due to heart trouble. Her age was 74 years, 11 months and 13 days. Deceased was born in Enebak, Norway, December 15, 1853, and emigrated to America in 1872. She was then 19 year of age. The greater part of her life was spent in Lakes Coulee, where she and her husband lived about 40 years. She was kind and loving to everyone, and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She leaves to mourn her death three children: Sigvald Ekern of Blair; Mrs. Inga Bjorkman of Minneapolis and Mrs. Clara Lavel of Minneapolis. Funeral services were held Monday, December 3, at the First Lutheran church, the Rev. S.S. Urberg officiating. Burial was made in the Fagernes cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 13, 1928

SESEL EKERN (BIRI)
Sesel Ekern was born in Biri, Norway, September 25th, 1849. She came to Trempealeau County in 1875. She had three brothers here, Johannes, Hans and Christian Ekern. Johannes is living in Blair, and is 89 years of age. The others are dead. Like most new-comer girls, Sesel began her career in this country by doing housework. But being a woman of more than average intelligence, she soon realized she could probably increase by earnings by training herself for some special trade or occupation. She became a seamstress and took up her residence in Winona, where she made her home for many years. That she was successful is evidenced by the fact that she made nine trips abroad since she came to this country. In all she crossed the Atlantic Ocean 19 times. These trips helped greatly to increase her general knowledge, enlarge her views of life, and give a culture and finish to her personality, which she might not otherwise have attained. About five years ago, soon after the death of her brother, Christian, she came to Blair. Her brother, Johannes, a single man had for years made his home with his brother, Christian. Johannes was already an old man, who needed to be cared for, and she felt a sisterly duty to look after him, for he was without a home and practically without means to support himself. Since that time she has devoted herself to make life as pleasant as possible for her aged and feeble brother. And her hope and expectations were that she might be preserved and have the means to support him to the end of his journey. But almost without warning she was called and he is left. After only about one day�s sickness, she passed away December 12, 1931. She was buried in the Aamodt cemetery in the Town of Ettrick by the side of her brother, Hans, in accordance with instructions given in her will. Rev. Konrad Urberg had charge of the funeral service. Miss Ekern was tall, slender and very lithe and graceful in all her movements. Though past 82 years of age, she was still as erect and symmetrical as we wish our young women might be but most of them are not. In her prime she might have posed for a statue of Diana the Huntrress. But it was not her body that showed the effect of the cultural training she had given herself; for a few minutes conversation with her at any time or place revealed the tender refinement of her heart and the clearness of her mind. Too bad, she was not able to complete the last mission of her life, the care of her brother during his closing years. Written by H.A. Anderson on December 27th, 1931 THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 31, 1931

ANTON EKERN (BIRI)
Anton Ekern, 95, a pioneer resident of the town of Pigeon; died at his home in Minneapolis October 7. He was bedridden since August 1934, and his hearing and eyesight failed him about two years ago. His wife, aged 86, broke her hip in November, 1934, and has since that time been bedridden. Mr. Ekern was born in Biri, Norway, and in 1862 came to America with his brother, Mark, and settled in the town of Pigeon. Mr. Ekern farmed on the farm now operated by Ludwig Thompson until he moved his family to Minneapolis in 1904. He was married to Louise Anderson by the Rev. O. Waldeland of Pigeon Falls, April 21, 1868. In 1918 their golden wedding anniversary was observed in an impressive celebration at their Minneapolis home. Mr. Ekern is survived by his wife, six daughters, Mathilda, Laura and Emma Lou and Mrs. A.O. Dolven all of Minneapolis; Mrs. H.W. Halverson of New Auburn and Mrs. M.O. Sumstad, Roland, Iowa and two sons, Alfred of Hannibal and William of Houston, Texas. A daughter, Mr. J. N. Halverson, died in 1930. Funeral services were held Saturday, October 9, at Lakewood chapel with burial in the Lakewood cemetery. The Rev. M.N. Ylvesaker, pastor of Our Saviour�s Lutheran church preached the funeral sermon and Orin Dahl sang Safe in the Arms of Jesus� and �Den Store Hvide Flok� THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 21, 1937

MRS. EVEN ELLAND (VAALER, SOLAR)
Hannah Berg was born in Vaaler, Solar, Norway, February 25, 1865. She was confirmed in the Vaaler church by Rev. Sorenson. She emigrated to America April 6, 1880. She was united in marriage by Rev. Brynjolf Hovde to Even Elland on the John Elland farm July 1, 1881. That same fall they moved to French Creek where they purchased the Ole Benrud farm. Four years later they took up their residence on the Sawyer Austin farm at Longwood, Wisconsin. After four years in Longwood, they returned to the Benrud farm in French Creek where they remained a year. Four years were spent at the Goodyear Mill and then they returned to Trempealeau County where they purchased the James Gibson farm and resided there continuously for thirty years. In 1924 they built the house in Blair which has since been their home. Mrs. Elland was a fine type of womanhood, an indefatigable worker whose busy fingers always found something to do, an excellent wife and mother who made her home a loved and cherished spot to all its members, one who even in old age was imbued with a youthful mind and spirit and scattered sunshine on life�s pathway, clear-minded and sensible in her judgments, one who loved her church and was a faithful worker to the last. Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 2nd and were very largely attended, conducted by her pastor, Rev. O.L. Hofstad, assisted by Rev. T.E. Sweger at 2 p.m. at the home and 3 p.m. at the Trempealeau Valley church. Besides her husband, seven children are left to mourn her passing: Elmer, Thomas, Arthur and Cora Elland and Mrs. Olavus Tappen, all of Blair; Mrs. M.S. Simonson, Whitehall; and Mrs. Carl Fischer, South Bend, Indiana; three brothers have preceded her in death. Two brothers, Olaf Berg, Hazelhurst, Wisconsin and Sam Berg, Frenchville; and a sister, Mrs. Julius Johnson, Superior survive, all of whom were present at the funeral. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 7, 1934

JOHN ELLAND (SONDRE FRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
The Blair community was shocked and saddened Tuesday morning to hear of the sudden and unexpected passing of one of its well known and highly respected residents, John Elland,. His buoyant spirits, his light step, his active mind and body, the years that seemed so lightly on his shoulders belied the advanced age that he had reached. He had been indisposed for some time, but no alarm was felt as to his condition, until Tuesday morning, August 5, 1930, when he was suddenly stricken with a heart attack and passed away before a physician summoned could reach his side. He was so widely known and esteemed because of his upright character and friendly disposition that there was wide spread and sincere regret at his passing which was manifested at the funeral held from the Zion Lutheran Church of which he had been a member for many years. There was an unusually large attendance at the services which were conducted by the pastor, Rev. T.E. Sweger. Miss Avis Hoganson sang beautifully two favorite hymns. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. There was also a memorial wreath given to the Stoughton Home for the Aged by some of his friends. The services were held at the home and at the church on Thursday afternoon, August 7th. Interment was made in the Zion cemetery. John Elland had reached almost 84 years at his death. He was born in Sondre Fron, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, September 27, 1846 at the age of 11 years he came with his parents Elan and Marit Everson Alme to America. The family spent five years at Coon Prairie, Vernon County, Wisconsin. In 1862 they came to Trempealeau County and settled on the farm two miles east of Blair which became the home of John Elland until the day of his death. This was built up into one of the finest farms of the community due in great measure to the industry and farsightedness of the deceased. His father did not survive long the acquisition of the new home, but his mother lived on to an advanced age, dying at the age of 91 years, July 8, 1914. In the spring of 1873, the deceased was united in marriage to Pauline Paulson with whom he lived a happy family life for the space of 57 years. He leaves to mourn his kindly presence his aged widow, one daughter, Mrs. Minnie Christianson of Minneapolis; four sons, Peter and Clarence at home and Edward and Milan of Blair. Two daughters, Nettie and Mrs. Hannah Odegaard preceded him in death. One brother, Even Elland, of Blair, survives. There are a number of grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 14, 1930

MRS. JOHN ELLAND (GRUE, SOLAR)
Pauline Paulson was born in Grue, Solar, Norway October 4, 1848. She was the daughter of Paul and Maria Paulson. At the age of 19 she emigrated to America. She was united in marriage to John Elland in the spring of 1873. They made their home on the farm which was to be her home until death. Here in the home built up by diligence and labor in a calm and tranquil spirit, she watched life pass by for 59 years, saw children grow up about her to take their places in the world, experienced life�s joys and sorrows and at eventide warmed by the love and affection of her dear ones quietly laid her burden down to go out to meet her Maker. Her husband whose presence and companionship she enjoyed in a happy wedded life of 57 years passed away August 5, 1930. Her health gradually failed the past few years and death came not unexpectedly September 14, 1932 at the age of not quite 84 years. She leaves to mourn the loss of a good and devoted mother, a daughter and four sons, Minnie Christianson, Minneapolis; Peter and Clarence at home; Edward and Milan of Blair. There are eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Two daughters, Nettie and Mrs. Hannah Odegard preceded her in death. A brother, Ole Paulson, of Chimney Rock survives. A kind neighbor and friend, a loving wife and mother always solicitous of the welfare of her children has gone from among us. Funeral services were held on Saturday September 17th at the home and at the Zion Lutheran church conducted by her pastor, Rev. T.E. Sweger. Besides the many floral tokens, there were memory wreaths in the form of contributions to the Home for the aged at Wittenberg from friends, grandchildren and other relatives. Pall bearers were Elmer Thurston, Peter Koxlien, M.M. Hallingstad, Ole Storley, rank Nelson and Carlot Hanson. Flower girls were Cora Elland, Mayme Hallingstad, Mrs. Delbert Bersin, Mrs. Hugh Ellison, Lorene Elland and Clara Steffenson. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 22, 1932

HOGAN EMBERSON (NORWAY)
Hogan Emberson was born in Norway in 1836 and came to Trempealeau County in 1868, where he resided up to the time of his death, Friday, February 5, 1909, at his late home in this township. Deceased was a farmer and one of the rugged, industrious pioneers. Surviving him is the widow, two sons, Albert of this town and Clifford of St. Paul; four daughters, Mrs. Thomas Shaw of Seattle; Mrs. Lora Atwood of this town; Mrs. Frank Drake of Minneapolis and Miss May Emberson, who resides at the old home. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - FEBRUARY 18, 1909

JAMES ELSTAD (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Monday, March 17th, marked the passing of another one of the oldest residents of Independence. James Elstad passed away quietly early that morning at his home after a week�s brief illness. Had he lived until April 25th, he would have been 85 years old. Mr. Elstad was born April 25, 1847 in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, the oldest son of Jens J. and Kari Lien Elstad. In 1861 the family immigrated from Norway in an old sailing vessel to Quebec, and from there traveled by rail to LaCrosse, locating in Coon Valley near Chaseburg, Wisconsin. In his early life Mr. Elstad was engaged in farming and logging. In 1875 he was married to Anne Torgerson of Chaseburg, who passed away April 3, 1921. Immediately after their marriage they came to Independence, where the family has resided since, with the exception of two years which Mr. Elstad spent in Stephen, Minnesota. He was employed in the Thomas Thomson and A. Garthus stores until 1913. There were born to the Elstads seven children, three dying in infancy. The surviving children are: Oscar of Whitehall; Scott of Davenport, Iowa; Rudolph of Chisholm, Minnesota; and Edna of Independence. There is one grandchild. Mr. Elstad is also survived by two brothers, Edward of LaCrosse and Melvin of Whitehall; one sister, Mrs. Thomas Thompson of Eau Claire, and a half-sister, Mrs. Anton Peterson of Chaseburg. The funeral services were held W4ednesday afternoon at two o�clock from the Lutheran church of which Mr. Elstad was a charter member and trustee. The services were conducted by the Rev. O.G. Birkeland of the church and the burial was made in the family lot at Bethel cemetery. Pallbearers were Adam Garthus, Myron Olson, Dr. A.O. Torson, Albert Torgerson, L.W. Halvorson and Lester Senty. In this day of hard times and depression, we can take a new hold on life and be a comfort to our neighbors by taking a few moments to reflect on the life of our dear friend, Mr. Elstad. Mr. Elstad had many reverses and sorrows in life, but never did he carry his troubles to others. He always met his friends with a smile. He did not possess a large share of this worldly goods, but he did possess that, which money can never buy, a pleasing personality and a heart handshake and a word of good cheer for everybody. THE WHITEHALL TIMES = MARCH 17, 1932

CHRIST EMILSON (ELVERUM)
Christ Emilson died at Wildrose, North Dakota, September 16, 1919 of septic pneumonia. He had been sick since September 10. He was born in Elverum, Osterdalen, Norway, October 5th, 1889. In the spring of 1910 he came to this country and made his home with his uncle. B. Benson of Blair. June 22, 1918 he was called to the colors, and in August he left for France and fought at the front for several months. He returned from France in June 1919. His body was brought to Blair for burial. He leaves to mourn his death an aged father and mother, three brothers and three sisters all of Norway, his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Benson and several cousins of Vosse Coulee. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 25, 1919

EDWARD ELSTAD (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Edward Elstad, aged nearly 82 years died at LaCrosse Wednesday, April 12, and was buried Saturday in that city besides the remains of his wife who preceded him in death ten years ago; and a son, Clarence, and daughter, Nora, Mrs. Lewis Runkel, both deceased for many years. Mr. Elstad was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, April 25, 1851, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jens Jensen Elstad. He immigrated to America with his parents and brothers and sisters in 1861, settling immediately in Coon Valley. Here he grew to manhood. In 1873 he was joined in marriage to Christina Berg of Coon Prairie, and to this union five children were born, three of whom are still living - Nordahl, Mathilda, Mrs. Ambrose Forsythe, and Nellie, Mrs. Gus Schilling, all of LaCrosse. Ed Elstad was a resident of Trempeaelau county for many years during the prime of his life and was sheriff during several different terms. In the meantime he was engaged at different occupations, including storekeeping. He was a hale fellow, well met, as the saying goes, and a prominent figure in the county during his stay here. More than 40 years ago, he went to LaCrosse where he lived until his death. There are only two members of the Elstad family surviving the brother Ed, Melvin of Whitehall, the youngest; and Mrs. T. Thompson of Eau Claire, who will soon be 90 years of age. A half-sister also survives, Mrs. Anton Peterson of Chaseburg. James Elstad, John Matt and Chris and Mrs. Gilbert Halvorson, brothers and sister of the deceased have passed on before. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 20, 1933

OLE EMILSON (NORWAY)
Ole Emilson, 87, died at 1:30 Saturday afternoon, January 2, 1943, at the Whitehall Community hospital following an illness of several weeks duration. Mr. Emilson was a miller for 42 years, retiring about 15 year ago. He was born in Norway July 9, 1855 and came to this country at the age of five, the family settling at Chaseburg. He began work as a miller in 1879. For seven years he ground wheat on a stone burr. He was married in 1885 at Chaseburg to Mathilda Olson who died in 1907. Mr. Emilson came to Ettrick in 1901 to operate the mill owned by the later Iver Pederson. Surviving him are four sons, Oscar of LaCrosse; Helmer of Ettrick; Victor of Beloit and Earl of Rochester, Minnesota; and six grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Monday at the Runnestrand funeral chapel and at the Ettrick Lutheran Church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was at Viroqua, Wisconsin. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 7, 1943

MRS. OLAF ERICKSMOEN (SOLAR)
Mrs. Olaf Ericksmoen, 80, died in her sleep some time during Thursday night (August 17, 1967). She had not been ill, but had been feeling very tired the past several days. The former Borghild Shelley was born June 15, 1887 in Solar, Norway, to Ole and Bertha Shelley, She came to America at an early age. She was confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church, Blair. She was married November 18, 1909, and the couple farmed in the Blair area. Ericksmoen died in July 1964. She is survived by three sons, Glenn, Woodland Hills, California; Ernest, Beloit; and Milton, Blair; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; four brothers, Helmer, Denver, Colorado; Otto, Stillwater, Minnesota; Albert, Princeton, Minnesota; and Charley, Blair; and three sisters, Mrs. Carl (Carrie) Hanson, Beloit; Mrs. Mens (Edna) Berg, Wanamingo, Minnesota; and Mrs. Alice Fredrickson, Los Angeles, California. A son, Wallace, and two brothers, John and Jule, have died. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. at Zion Lutheran church, the Rev. L.H. Jacobson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Julius Arneson, Harvey Nyen, Basil Shelley, Arthur Solberg, Donald Skorstad and Orrin Shelley. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 24, 1967

NELS EDWIN (JACKSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Nels Edwin, 84, passed away June 24, 1963 at Lowell, Arkansas. The funeral was held at the Callison-Sisco Chapel on June 27, 1963 in Springdalte, Arkansas. Interment was at Pleasant Grove cemetery. Mr. Edwin was born March 14, 1879 in Jackson county, Wisconsin. He was married to Mrs. Anna Johnson and they spent much of their married life in the town of Franklin. In 1940 they moved to Lowell, Arkansas where they then made their home. Mrs. Edwin preceded him in death December 21, 1954. Survivors include a son, Theodore and a one grandson of Lowell, Arkansas, a stepson, Neil O. Johnson, Melrose, Wisconsin and several nieces and nephews. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK

OLE J. EGGUM (DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Ole J. Eggum, attorney-at-law and man of affairs, now located at Whitehall was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, March 10, 1878, the fifth of nine children born to John L. and Martha (Eggum) Eggum. John L. Eggum was born in Sogn, Norway, came to America in 1857 and located in Dane County, living for a short time in Norway Grove, and then going to Mount Horeb, where he farmed until his death, March 13, 1904. His wife, Martha, whom he married in 1865, was also born in Sogn, Norway, and was brought to Dane County by her parents in 1854 when only nine years of age. She passed away February 9, 1896. Ole J. Eggum passed through the common schools, and in 1897 was graduated from the Mount Horeb Academy at Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. After teaching for a while, he entered the collegiate department of the University of Wisconsin, and graduated in 1904. He then worked in Chicago and Los Angeles. In 1906 he was employed by the Insurance Investigating Committee of the Wisconsin Legislature to compile insurance laws, statistics and other insurance information at Madison and Milwaukee. Subsequently he entered the Law Department of the University of Wisconsin and was admitted to the bar in 1907. For the next two years he practiced at Abbotsford, Wisconsin and did law editorial work for a law book company of St. Paul. In May 1909, h formed a partnership at Whitehall with Herman L. Ekern, who was State Insurance Commissioner from 1910 to 1915. The partnership was dissolved April 1, 1913, and Mr. Eggum has since continued the practice alone. He never sought public office, but has taken an active interest in public affairs and has been called to various positions of public honor and trust. Mr. Eggum was married February 16, 1909 to Alice M. Bushey, of Appleton, born at Plainfield, Wisconsin, June 14, 1878, daughter of George P. and Elizabeth (Hutchinson) Bushey, the former of whom died in February 1917 and the latter of whom died June 30, 1909. Before her marriage Mrs. Eggum taught in various public schools of the State, including the State School for Dependent Children at Sparta and for two years was a district representative of the Wisconsin Home Finding Society. Since coming to Whitehall she has taken an active interest in public welfare work and is now president of the Trempealeau County Woman Suffrage Association. Mr. and Mrs. Eggum have an adopted son, Karl William, who was born November 9, 1916. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

ALEXANDER J. EKERN (GALE TOWNSHIP, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY)
Alexander J. Ekern is a successful agriculturist of Ettrick Township, his flourishing farm of 207 acres being located in sections 7 and 8, south. He was born in Gale Township, this county, July 19, 1863, son of Andrew and Oline (Amundson) Ekern. The parents were both natives of Biri, Norway, the date of the father�s birth being May 19, 1834, and that of his wife August 8, 1838. Andrew Ekern came to this country unmarried in 1852, locating on Coon Prairie, Vernon County, Wisconsin. After working for others for awhile he engaged in farming in that locality from which he removed later to LaCrosse County, where he and his brother, Gilbert, bought a farm, on which he lived for a few years. In Lacrosse County he also married. In 1860 he came with his wife to Trempealeau County and filed on a homestead in Gale Township, which place was his home for the remainder of his life. He made important improvements on his property and did his full share in helping to develop the agricultural resources of the township. His death occurred December 18, 1916. His wife died March 29, 1913. They had a family of nine children, Alexander J. being the first born. Alexander J. Ekern was educated in the district school at Glasgow, Gale Township, and at the same time was taught farm work, assisting his father out of school hours, and all of the time after he laid aside his school books. At the age of 15 years he was practically self-supporting, and when a little older and stronger worked as a regular farm hand in the summer and at lumbering in the winter. This sort of life continued for about seven years, during which time he saved a part of his wages with a view to future independence. At the end of the period referred to he rented a farm in Gale Township for three years and then moved onto the farm which he now operates, purchasing the property at that time. Since then he has made many improvements in it, erecting new buildings, including barns and granaries, and has added considerably to the acreage of tilled land. His farming operations include dairying and his prosperity has increased from year to year with the enlargement of his farm and herd. Mr. Ekern is also president of the Ettrick Creamery Company and a stockholder and one of the incorporators of the Ettrick & Northern Railroad Company, the Western Wisconsin Telephone Company, and the Bank of Ettrick also a director and president of the Scandinavian Insurance Company, having formerly held the office of vice-president. In politics he is a Republican. Although a busy man, he has devoted a part of his time to town and county affairs, having served as chairman of the board, as supervisor ten years and as clerk of the district school board two years. He was a member of the building committee that erected the new Lutheran church at Hardie�s Creek, and has served as trustee of the church to which he and his family belong. Mr. Ekern was married November 11, 1885 to Clara Larson, who was born in Lewis� Valley, LaCrosse County, daughter of Lars and Goner (Mikkleson) Hansaasen, both natives of Ringsaker, Norway, where they were married. Mrs. Ekern�s father was born April 27, 1837 and her mother in March 1836. After their marriage in September 1858, they continued to reside in their native land for several years, but about 1862 emigrated to America, locating on a farm in LaCrosse County. From there they removed later to Ettrick Township, Trempealeau County, where Mrs. Ekern�s father homesteaded the farm now owned by Mr. Ekern, on which he is still living, being practically retired from active labor. He and his wife reared six children, Clara being the fourth born. Mr. and Mrs. Ekern are the parents of two children: Alfred L. and Gertrude O. Alfred L., who, after attending the local schools, took a course at the State Agricultural College at Madison, is now operating the home farm. He married Margaret Knutson, who was born at Beaver Creek, this county. Gertrude O., who is unmarried, resides at home. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

JOHN ELLAND (GULBRANSDALEN, FRON, NORWAY) (2)
Among the successful farmers of Preston Township is the subject of this sketch, who as proprietor of Sunnyslope Farm is contributing to the agricultural development of the township while enjoying yearly an increased prosperity. He was born in Gulbransdalen, Fron, Norway, September 27, 1845. His father was Elland Everson, a native of Norway, who came with his wife and family to the United States in 1857, settling first in Vernon County, Wisconsin where he remained four years. At the end of that time he came to Trempealeau County, and after living two years in Trempealeau Coulee, bought a farm on which his son, John, now resides and on which he began agricultural operations. A few years later he was unfortunate enough to lose his life by one of those accidents incident to pioneer life, dying in the woods in 1866, while engaged in cutting timber. His wife, whose maiden name was Marit Alme, survived him nearly half a century, dying in 1913 at the age of 91 years. They had six children: John, the subject of this sketch; Thomas, who resides at Black River Falls and has been engaged in railroad work for the last 20 years; Martha, who married Ole Benrud, Blair, Wisconsin and died in 1904; Even, a farmer in Preston Township; Karen, who met an accidental death from burning at the age of 8 years and Martinus, who died on the voyage to America. Of this family the eldest was John, upon whom, therefore the chief responsibility fell at the time of his father�s death. He was at this time about 21 years old and able to assume charge of the farm, which he managed for his mother until his marriage in June 1872 to Paulina Paulson, of Chimney Rock Township, a daughter of Paul Berger. He then purchased the farm and has ever since been its proprietor. Sunnyslope Farm is a good piece of agricultural property. Containing 246 acres and lying in sections 22 and 23, Preston Township. The first residence of the family on this land was a log house 10 by 12 feet, which is still standing, having been replaced as a dwelling, however, by a good 10-room frame house of two stores and basement, erected by Mr. Elland in 1895. Among other improvements he has made are a frame barn, 42 by 84 by 18 feet, with basement, and a concrete block silo, 14 by 35 feet. Both house and barn are provided with running water and various modern improvements suitable to each. He and his wife are the parents of seven children: Edward, who is conducting a butcher�s shop in Blair; Milan, engaged in farming near Blair; Peter, residing in Blair; Minnie, at home; Nettie, who died July 18, 1917; Hannah, who married Edward Odegaard of Minneapolis and Clarence, living on the home farm. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Aside from his original farm, he had 18 acres of slough land which he could not use for years, but now he has it all tilled, and on this land has one of the heaviest crops on the farm. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

EDWARD CHRISTIAN ELLIASON (LAYTON, NORWAY)
Edward Christian Elliason, who is conducting a farm of 300 acres in section 25, Gale Township, was born in Layton, Norway, January 31, 1865, son of Peter and Martha (Christenson) Elliason. His parents, also natives of Norway, came to America in 1869, locating in Lewis Valley, LaCrosse County, where Peter Elliason, who was a tanner by trade engaged in farming, residing there until his death, April 7, 1915. His wife died in June 1896. Edward C. Elliason, subject of this sketch, was the eldest of five children. He attended school in Farmington Township, LaCrosse County, and also had the advantage of some home instruction. Residing at home practically all of the time until his marriage at the age of 22 years, he then worked on a farm for one year, and afterward went to LaCrosse where for three years he was employed at the Wheland Cedar Works. Subsequently he went on a farm near Holmen, where he resided five years, at the end of which time he came to the vicinity of Glasgow, Trempealeau County, and in 1908 purchased his present farm of 300 acres on which he is carrying on general farming. He is also a stockholder in a threshing and shredding outfit, in the Farmers� Exchange at Galesville, the LaCrosse Packing Company and the Independent Harvester Company of Plano, Illinois. On November 23, 1887, Mr. Elliason was united in marriage to Katherine Wilson, who was born in LaCrosse Valley, LaCrosse County, daughter of James and Jeanette (Barkley) Wilson, her parents being natives of Scotland. James Wilson was born November 22, 1817 and his wife in 1832. They were married in their native land and came to LaCrosse County, Wisconsin at an early date, Mr. Wilson taking a homestead on which he was engaged in farming until his death in 1878; his wife died in 1882. Their family numbered nine children, of whom their daughter, Katherine, was the second in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Elliason are the parents of three children: Wilson Peter, born June 12, 1889; Malcolm Howard, born December 28, 1893; and Edward Kilmor, born August 15, 1896. Mr. Elliason is a member of the American Society of Equity and with his family, belong to the Lutheran church. In politics he is independent, but usually votes the Republican ticket. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

ALFRED EDWARD EMERSON (JACKSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Alfred Edward Emerson, a well-known agriculturist of Gale Township, was born at North Bend, Jackson County, Wisconsin, July 8, 1880, son of Henry and Mary (Gilbertson) Emerson. His parents were natives of Norway, but were married in Wisconsin. Henry Emerson was 12 years old when he accompanied his parents to the United States. They settled in Wisconsin, in which state he grew to manhood. In time he purchased land at North Bend and engaged in farming which was his occupation for many years. He died on his farm in April 1911. His wife died May 2, 1917. They had six children, of who Alfred E. was next to the youngest. Alfred E. Emerson resided with his parents until he was 26 years old, at which time, a year or two previous to his marriage, he bought his present farm and engaged in agriculture on his own account. He has 220 acres of improved land, with good modern buildings and equipment, practically all the improvements having been made by himself. He carries on general farming very successfully and is now one of the prosperous and substantial citizens of his township. Besides this, he is a stockholder in the LaCrosse Packing Company. Mr. Emerson was first married in 1908 to Katie Stellpflug, who was born in Gale Township, a daughter of John and Sarah (Shonat) Stellpflug. She died November 5, 1909, leaving one child, Bernard, who is now attending schools. In March 1911 Mr. Emerson married for his second wife, Abbie Stellpflug, a sister of his first wife. By her he has had two children, Valeria Frances and Flavian John, both of whom are living. Mr. Emerson is a member of the Order of Beavers and of the Foresters, and is a Catholic in religion. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY 1917

LARS EIDE (RUMSDALE, NORWAY)
Lars Eide, who is engaged in agricultural operation of a farm of 275 acres in section 4-8, Hale Township, was born in Rumsdale, Norway, April 8, 1869. His parents were John and Ellen (Larson) Eide, both natives of Norway. John Eide, who was born in 1843, came to America with his wife and family in 1882, locating on 160 acres of land, constituting the northeast quarter of section 5, Hale Township, this county, where he followed farming until his death in 1908. His wife, who was born in 1835, died in the spring of 1910. Lars Eide arrived in the United States in 1883 and from that time to 1886 lived on the farm with his father. He then went to Glasgow, Montana where for three years he was engaged in the cattle business. Then, returning home, he worked out for years for others. Resolving to engage in agriculture on his own account, he rented his present farm from A. Amundson and began operations. In 1890 he bought that part of the farm lying in section 4 and in 1893 purchased the remainder, which is located in section 8, and has since resided here engaged in general farming. He has made a number of improvements on the place, thereby increasing its value and is doing a successful and profitable business. In 1909 Mr. Eide built a good house of 10 rooms, consisting of two stories and a basement; and in 1915 he erected a barn and silo, the former measuring 36 by 94 by 16 feet, with a basement 60 feet long, provided with cement floors and 40 steel stanchions. His silo is 12 by 32 feet. His herd of cattle numbers 40 head of which he milks 20. For two years he has served as township supervisor. Mr. Eide was married May 22, 1896 to Clara Amundson, who was born on Mr. Eide�s present farm May 9, 1873, a daughter of Amund and Thea (Halvorson) Amundson. Her father, who was a pioneer of Bruce Valley, died on this farm in 1912 at the age of 88 � years, his wife having passed away in the spring of 1897 at the age of 62. They were worthy people, who during their long career in this neighborhood had made many friends and were universally respected. Mr. and Mrs. Eide are the parents of five children: Theodore, Emma, Jennie, Arnold and Lillie, all of whom are living at home with their parents. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America, of which Mr. Eide was treasurer for three years. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

PAUL EIDE (ROMSDAL, NORWAY) (2)
Paul Eide, a well-known and prosperous farmer of Hale Township was born in Romsdal, Norway, January 1, 1859, son of John and Ellen (Larson) Eide. His parents were both natives of Norway, the father born in 1843 and the mother in 1835. They came to America with their family in 1882, settling in Hale Township, this county, on 160 acres of land in section 5, where they lived 15 years. They then took a farm in section 4, where John Eide died in 1908; his wife died in the spring of 1910. Paul Eide, who accompanied his parents to the United States, settled on his present farm with his parents in 1884 and has since resided on it, having purchased the property in 1890. It contains 300 acres or more and is located in sections 4 and 5, township 23 north, range 8 west, Hale Township. The house, a two-story frame structure, was rebuilt in 1903. It contains 10 rooms and is a substantial and commodious dwelling. In 1911 Mr. Eide built a barn, 40 by 70 by 16 feet in dimensions above stone basement, with cement floor and steel stanchions In the same year he put up a stave silo, 12 by 30 feet. His herd of graded Durham cattle numbers 35 head, of which he milks 20. For three years he has served as a member of the school board of his district. Mr. Eide was married in November 1890, to Millie Amundson, who was born in section 8, Hale Township, this county, June 27, 1870, daughter of Amund and Thea (Halvorson) Amundson. Mr. and Mrs. Eide have been the parents of nine children: Thea, born April 9, 1891; John, December 25, 1892; Arthur, August 21, 1895; Elvina, January 2, 1898; Palmer, August 1, 1900; Magnus, February 14, 1903 (died February 23, 1903); Mabel, November 23, 1904; Ruth, August 26, 1907 and Millard, July 15, 1910. All the living children are residing at home. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America, of which Mr. Eide is a trustee. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917C.K. EDISON (VASSEVANGEN, VASS, NORWAY) C.K. Edison, was born on his father�s farm near Vassevangen, Norway, natives of Vass, Norway, where they were numbered among the most distinguished and representative farmers of their community. Both died in their native land, he in 1859 and his wife in 1883. C.K. Edison attended the public and high school of Norway and at the age of 15 set out for the new country across the seas. In April 1870 we find him and his sister embarking on a sail ship bound for America. They had to furnish their own board while on the ship. It took them seven weeks from the time of leaving the port of Bergen, Norway, until they arrived at Quebec, Canada, and then they spent about three weeks traveling on steamboats and railroads before they reached their destination near Decorah, Iowa, in which place they arrived in July. They stopped there during summer and in the fall the same year they, in company with their cousin, started for Doge County, Minnesota, going in a so-called prairie schooner pulled by a yoke of oxen. Mr. Edison spent about three years at that place working in the harvest fields in summer and working for his board and attending school in winter. In 1874 he returned on a trip to his native land to pay a visit to his mother and brother, returning to his adopted country the next year. In 1880 he came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. July 30, 1881, he was united in holy bonds of matrimony to Mary Herbjornson, who was born in Iowa County, Wisconsin, August 8, 1862, a daughter of Hans and Guri Herbjornson, both now deceased, the father dying in 1898 and the mother in 1903. In 1884 he purchased part of his present farm in section 7, Chimney Rock Township. He has resided on this place continuously since, with the exception of three years spent in Eleva and two years in Superior, Wisconsin. Mr. Edison on his arrival in Trempealeau County did valuable service as pioneer school-teacher for about ten years. He now owns a good dairy farm of 333 acres, on which he keeps on an average about 30 milk cows, with young stock and a lot of horses. The farm is under a good state of cultivation. He has erected modern and substantial buildings. The neatness in appearance of the entire place bespeaks thrift, coupled with good judgment, in behalf of its owner. Mr. Edison has always acted as a leader in his community. As such he was a member of a committee who built the new church and the brick school house, also in laying out a good road in Bennett Valley, etc. He has served as town supervisor, justice of the peace, clerk of his school district for 12 years and for 23 years he has done efficient service as town clerk. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Edison has been blessed with the birth of nine children: Ed, Cecelia, Gertie Hilma, Charles, George, Gertie Bertina, Horace, Kemel and Marvin. Ed married Lizzie Holten and is associated with his father on the home farm. Cecelia became the wife of John Killnes, a farmer of Dover Township, Buffalo County, Wisconsin. George married Josephina Austen, and is farming. Horace is clerking in a store in Mondovi, Wisconsin. Marvin is attending high school at the same place. Charles and Kemel are farming at home. Gertie Helma died at the age of 4 years. Gertie Bertina keeps house for her father, the mother having died August 23, 1917. In the death of Mrs. Edison the family are deprived of a most accomplished woman, who through all her years was a loyal wife and loving mother. The family are members of the Bennett Valley Norwegian Lutheran church, Mr. Edison being one of the organizers, and of which he has ever been a beneficent supporter. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

IVER EIMON (LAND, NORWAY)
Iver Eimon, one of the most prominent farmers and stock raisers in Hale Township, and an extensive landowner elsewhere, was born in Land, Norway, June 5, 1854, son of Ole and Sierce (Thomle) Eimon. His parents, who were natives of the same part of Norway, came to the United States in 1862, locating at Blue Mounds, Dane County, Wisconsin, where the father engaged in farming, and also at times worked in the lead mines. In 1868 they came to Trempealeau County, taking a homestead of 160 acres in section 12, Hale Township, it consisting entirely of wild land. Here Ole Eimon built a shanty and with four yoke of cattle, assisted by his son Iver, broke the land. In time, by hard work and perseverance, he developed a good farm, on which he resided until his death February 6, 1908. His wife passed away long before him in March 1882. They had in all, seven children, two of whom, Bertha and Christian, are deceased. The others are: Iver, the direct subject of this sketch; Beaty, who now lives in North Dakota; Christian, Peter and Benjamin. Iver Eimon accompanied his parents from Norway to Wisconsin, arriving with them in Trempealeau County in 1868. In the summer he assisted his father on the home farm and in winter worked in the woods at lumbering. In 1893 he became manager of the farm, which he later purchased. Energetic and enterprising, he has made many valuable improvements on the property, having now a fine barn, 120 by 52 feet, provided with running water and electric lights, two silos, each with a capacity of 100 tons, and other first-class buildings. He is successfully engaged in breeding Holstein-Freisian cattle, shipping a carload of beef cattle to market each spring. His farm is a large one, of 320 acres, in section 12. He also owns a farm of 320 acres in Becker County, Minnesota, which he rents. For many years Mr. Eimon has served as school clerk, and is now a supervisor of Hale Township. He has been twice nominated for the State Assembly. He has traveled extensively, both in the United States and Europe, having visited in this country nearly every state in the Union, in particular the Gulf States. For six years he owned a cotton farm at Fort Ben, Texas, and at one time owned ten acres of land at Houston, that state. His travels also extended into old Mexico, while on a five-months� trip to Europe he visited Scotland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France Switzerland and Italy. During these travels he saw many interesting sights and acquired a knowledge of the manners and customs of various races of people and found the time well spent. His present prosperity is the result of intelligent effort, kept up perseveringly through a series of years, and his reward has been large. On July 5, 1886, Mr. Eimon assumed the responsibilities of domestic life, being united in marriage with Margaret Heyerdahl, a native of Pierce County, Wisconsin. The following children have been born to him: Sigvald, born December 3, 1888, who married Anna Golbertson; Max, born March 19, 1891; Sigrid, February 7 1894; Paul, March 3, 1900; and Margaret, September 7, 1906. All except Sigvald are residing at home. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church and Mr. Eimon is a Prohibitionist in politics. SOURCE - HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

GILBERT O. EID (BLAKJER, NORWAY) (2)
Gilbert O. Eid, of Hegge Coulee, Pigeon Township, has one of the best-developed farms in this region, and is regarded as one of the most modern and progressive agriculturists in this part of the county. Since young boyhood, he has devoted his efforts to improving his present place, and the results, bearing testimony on every side to thrift, foresight and appreciation of beauty, have fully justified his endeavor. Born in Blakjer, Norway, June 14, 1858, son of Ole Gulbrandson Eid and Marte A. (Thoreid) Eid he came with them to America in 1871, lived six months in Minnesota and then with them came to Hegge Coulee. He assisted his parents with the farm duties, and in 1884, purchased the home place. Previously he had purchased two 40-acre tracts adjoining, and later he bought other adjacent property, until he now owns 420 acres of as good land as is to be found in the county, all being in section 2, except 40 acres in section 3. Upon acquiring ownership of the homestead, Mr. Eid continued its improvement. He remodeled and enlarged the dwelling, barns and other buildings, and in 1900 he erected his present sightly home. This is an ideal farmhouse in every way, beautiful, comfortable and convenient. It is heated with hot air system, equipped with modern plumbing, furnishing a continual supply of hot and cold water, and is provided with an electric light plant illuminating both house and barns. The other farm buildings are fully in keeping with the residence. The whole place is beautified with a well-kept lawn, dotted with flowers and shrubbery, and sloping in grassy sweeps from the building to the highway. The farm is a fertile one and produces the usual crops; diversified farming and stock raising being conducted along the latest approved methods, and a specialty being made of a fine dairy herd of Holstein cattle headed by a full-blooded sire. In addition to his farm holdings, Mr. Eid is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company, the People�s State Bank of Whitehall and the Whitehall Community Hospital. Mr. Eid was married July 2, 1882, to Karen Koxlien, who was born in Faaber, Gulbransdalen, Norrway, on November 25, 1859, and died September 20, 1907. Throughout all her married life she proved a faithful wife, a loving mother and a kind and charitable woman, and her death was not only a great loss to the family, but a matter of sincere grief to the community wherein her worth was known. She left seven children: May, Olga, Nora, Clara, Ella, Anna, George A. and Orvel. May was born May 28, 1883, and is the wife of Charles Borreson, a farmer of Rat Coulee. Olga Nora was born May 22, 1885 and is the wife of Albert Johnson, who helps operate the Eid farm. Clara was born September 30, 1886, and lives at home. Ella was born February 7, 1891, and is now the wife of Edward Goplin of Hale Township. Anna, born September 22, 1892; George A., born March 12, 1894 and Orvel, born December 25, 1897, are at home. March 27, 1913, Mr. Eid married Mrs. Amelia (Christopherson) Foss, born February 12, 1860, daughter of C. Christopherson and Christine (Peterson) Christopherson and widow of Anders Foss, who died April 25, 1900 leaving four children: Anna, now Mrs. Richard Lieske; Carolina, Mabel and Josephine. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

OLE GULBRANDSON EID (BLAKJAR, NORWAY)
Ole Gulbrandson Eid, one of the pioneers of Hegge Coulee, spent many years of his life in developing a farm in this county, and was numbered among the substantial and successful citizens. He was born in Blakjar, Norway, and was there reared on a farm. In 1871, hoping to better his condition and to seek the broader opportunities of the New World, he brought his family to America, and while looking about for a location, established himself in Minnesota for six months. Then he came to Trempealeau County and purchased 160 acres in Hegge Coulee, Pigeon Township, and began his career as an American farmer. He broke and developed a fine place, and became one of the representative men of the county. After may years of hard work and successful endeavor, he retired, but continued to live on the homestead with his son, Gilbert, O. He died there August 25, 1904, and his wife passed away December 21, 1893. They were the parents of six children: Ole and Marius, who are dead; Gilbert O., on the old homestead; Andrew, a merchant at Merrillan, Wisconsin; and Hans and Ole, farmers in Northfield Township, Jackson County. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

PETER EKERN (NORWAY)
Peter Ekern, merchant, town proprietor, assemblyman, extensive land owner, public spirited citizen, and man of affairs, to whose efforts was due the building up of a flourishing village, was one of the most distinguished citizen of the county, and for many years had an influential voice in controlling its destinies. As a businessman he platted Pigeon Falls, erected a store and creamery, rebuilt a large mill and developed extensive tracts of land. As a public citizen he did such splendid work as chairman of the township and member of the county board for many years, that in 1881 he was called upon to serve in the General Assembly, in which position he looked after the interests of his state and district with dignity and distinction. Peter Ekern was born in Norway, January 25, 1837, the son of Henrik Ekern, and oldest of a family of four sons and two daughters, the others being: Even, a merchant of Whitehall; Randine, wife of Edward Klebo of Chicago; Anton, a farmer of Pigeon Tow ship; Mark, a farmer in Moody County, South Dakota; and Maria, wife of Edward Schultz of Des Moines, Iowa. Peter was reared to a life of agricultural endeavor. At the age of eighteen he started operating a farm on his own responsibility, under a guardianship, the law at that time being that a youth could not engage in business for himself under the age of 25, except with a guardianship. As the years passed the young man determined to seek for himself the broader opportunities and superior advantages of the New World. Accordingly he came to America, and found his way to La Crosse, where two brothers and a sister had preceded him. From there he went to Vernon County, and there remain for several months. In March 1868, he settled in Trempealeau County, in the affairs of which he was later to take so prominent a part. For a time he lived in section 35, township 23, range 7, in the northern part of Pigeon. With keen judgment he foresaw the favorable opportunity of establishing a village at Pigeon Falls, and when, in 1872, his plans were ripe, he moved to the hamlet with which his name was thereafter to be inseparably connected. At the time of his arrival the village contained the mill of Cyrus H. Hine and the store of Johnson & Olson, as well as several residences. Mr. Hine owned about 160 acres, a part of which he had purchased from George Gale in 1867, and a part of which he had obtained from the government under the Homestead Act. His residence is still standing, but has been moved to another site. His barn is on its original location, and has been used in connection with the village hotel. His mill has been replaced by the Pigeon Falls flour and feed mill on the same site. In 1882 he erected another store building, and converted his original store building into a residence which he long occupied, and which was used as the village hotel until 1916. In the meantime, in 1875 and 1880, Mr. Ekern had bought Mr. Hine�s land and holdings, as well as a tract from George Gale, so that he owned 280 acres, all in section 34. The store, which he erected in 1882, 60 by 108 feet, two stories and full basement, is still used by his successors and is still in excellent condition. In 1885 he erected a creamery. This he operated until 1892, when he sold it to a farmers� association. The new venture, however, was not successful, so Mr. Ekern took possession, rebuilt the plant, and put in new equipment. Now known as the Pigeon Falls Creamery, the institution is still operated by his successors. In 1894 Mr. Ekern platted the town-site on the southeast quarter of section 34. In 1880 he built a new flour and feed mill on the site of the original Hine mill. This building was shortly afterward destroyed by fire. He then erected the present mill. Since that date the equipment has kept march with the progress of time the old stone burrs being replaced with a modern roller system, and new machinery and appliances being added as circumstances required. In 1898 the business was incorporated under the name of P. Ekern Company, for the purpose of operating the farms, the general store, the creamery, the flour and feed mill, the town-site property and other real estate. After a long and useful life, Mr. Ekern died in 1899. His widow died in 1911. The owners of the property are now: Dr. Andrew Ekern, who is president of the corporation and Mr. and Mrs. Ben M Sletteland, the former of whom is secretary, treasurer and manager, the latter of whom is vice-president. Mr. Ekern was married in 1858 to Olive Hovde. The union was blessed with seven children: Ludwig P.; Andrew; Minnie; Hannah; Josephine; Emma; Hulda; and Hulda. Ludwig P. is a retired merchant of Superior, Wisconsin. Andrew is a retired physician of San Diego, California. Minnie is the wife of B.M. Sletteland. Josephine is the wife of Peter Eimon, a wholesale grocer of Superior, Wisconsin. Emma, the wife of H.A. Otto, a Chicago lumberman, died in 1914. Hulda is the wife of Ben. Eimon, who is also in the wholesale grocery business in Superior. Hannah died at the age of 14 years. Hulda (first) also died in childhood. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY � 1917

 


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