Wisconsin Scandinavian Obituaries Oa - Olsen

Wisconsin Scandinavian
Obituaries Oa - Olsen


Norway Flag     Denmark Flag     Sweden Flag

Oakland George
Oakland Nels N.
Oakland Odell Mrs.
Oakland Oscar Mrs.
Oakland Peter P. Mrs.
Odegaard Eli
Odegaard Hans
Odehaard Ole E.
Odegaard Ole Mrs.
Odegaard Peter
Odegaard Peter H.
Odegaard Tosten
Odegard Tosten T.
Odemoe Bernt E.
Oerke A.J. Rev.
Ofsdahl Andrew P.
Ofshdahl Peter
Oftedahl Jens
Oftedahl Tennis
Oftedahl Tennis Mrs.
Oium Hilda Mrs.
Oksnee Andrew
Oksnee Clara Mrs.
Olsen Axel K. M.D.
Olsen Axel K. 2




MRS. ODELL OAKLAND (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Odell (Clara) Oakland, Blair, died Monday (April 25, 1966) at Lutheran Hospital, Lacrosse, after an illness of many months. She was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, August 13, 1892, and came to the United States in 1913. She had been reared by Mr. and Mrs. Andreas Morken of Harpefoss from the age of four through confirmation. She then worked for the local pastor for two years and at the old people�s home in Hundorp for three years before coming to this country. On June 3, 1915 she was married to Odell Oakland. They lived on the Oakland homestead in North Beaver Creek until his death in 1958. Mrs. Oakland then moved to Blair and built a house there for her retirement. She was active in her church and community, serving as Ladies� Aid president in the days when she often had to walk the three miles to the meetings. She is survived by three daughters, Alice (Mrs. Matt Baker) of Wausau; Christine (Mrs. Joseph Nelsestuen) of LaCrosse and Lucinda (Mrs. Hans Morken) of rural Ettrick; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She is also survived by one brother, Oluf Olson of Ettrick. Her other brother, Emil, died at Kathryn, North Dakota in January of this year. The funeral was at Faith Lutheran church in North Beaver Creek at 2 p.m. Wednesday, the Rev. L.H. Jacobson officiated. The pallbearers were Ernest Arneson, Lars Hoheim, Leland Torkelson, Basil Finch, Jesse Lee and Norman Anderson. Mrs. Elvin Rogness and Mrs. Orrin Bue sang. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 28, 1966

NELS N. OAKLAND (VALESTRAND)
Nels N. Oakland, pioneer and aged resident of the Town of Curran, died at the home of his son, Nels N. Nelson, Monday, January 13, 1919, at the age 91 years and ten days. His remains were laid to rest in the Curran Valley cemetery beside his wife, on Saturday afternoon, January 18, services conducted by Rev. D.T. Borgen. Born on the Oakland farm in Valestrand, Sogn, Norway, January 3, 1828, the life of Mr. Oakland has been one that grows more and more rare as the years ago by. One of twelve children and his parents in poor circumstances, he left home when but four years of age to be cared for by relatives. When still a mere boy, he hired out as a sheepherder, at the yearly salary of one crown in cash, a suit of clothes and a pair of leather shoes. Later on he learned the shoe making trade and went into business for himself. He continued making shoes for seven years. In 1856 he was united in marriage to Miss Lisbeth Hanson and a year later they emigrated to America, leaving home in April in a sail boat which required seven weeks for the trip. They landed in Quebec and two weeks later in Chicago. From there to Koshkonong, now Deerfield, Dane County, they rode in flat cars. A year was spent in Deerfield and then they moved to North Beaver Creek, in the Town of Franklin, where they filed a homestead in May 1858. They lived on the farm for ten years, clearing the land, tilling the soil and raising a family of six children. They suffered many hardships during the period of the Civil War. Here is an incident of the times. Mr. Oakland had shouldered a five-gallon jar of butter and traveled the distance to Black River Falls on foot, returning in the evening with the sum of two dollars in paper money as the result of his labor, and considering himself a rich man. In the spring of 1868 Mr. Oakland sold his Frankin farm to Gabriel Anderson and moved to what is now the Town of Curran, where his brother, Jacob, had taken up land. He purchased a quarter section there. Again they went thru the great work of clearing and improving a farm, the result was the fine farm which was their home until the death of Mrs. Oakland on June 6, 1914 at the age of 87 years and Mr. Oakland�s until now. His brother, Jacob, and five children, three sons and two daughters are left to mourn the loss of this fine old gentleman. Nels N. Nelson, on the home farm; Hans N. Oakland, Glendive, Montana; Anton N. Nelson, Whitehall; Mrs. H.P. Overby of Tolna, North Dakota; and Mrs. T.H. Torkelson, of Glenburn, North Dakota, all of whom were present at the funeral. One son, Lewis, died in 1893. Twenty-six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive him. Mr. Oakland became a member of the Lutheran church when young and was an ardent believer in Christ. Much of his spare time was devoted to study of the Bible, in which he was well versed, and many had to yield to his convictions of religious topics. He was one of the organizers of the Trempealeau Valley congregation and later of the Curran Valley Congregation, donated large sums of money for the erection of that church. A splendid man, who had accomplished much in his day and leaves a memory that is kindly in the hearts of al who knew him, and who extend sympathy to his family in their bereavement. JACKSON COUNTY JOURNAL - JANUARY 22, 1919

GEORGE OAKLAND (SOLAR)
George Oakland, 60, died at a Lanesboro, Minnesota hospital, July 15, 1958. He was born in Solar, Norway, March 11, 1898, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Oakland. He came to America with his parents at the age of two, the family settling in the Town of Franklin, Jackson County. Oakland has worked as a farm laborer in Minnesota for more than forty years. For fifteen years, he was employed at the Selmer Sather farm near Lanesboro. He was unmarried. Survivors include two brothers, Clarence, whose address is unknown, and Omer of Minneapolis; three sisters, Mrs. Magnus Johnson and Mrs. Arthur Anderson, Town of Ettrick; and Mrs. Robert Radermecher of Minneapolis. Funeral services were held at North Beaver Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. E.E. Olson�s congregation at 2 p.m. Friday. The Rev. K.M Urberg officiated. The burial was in the church cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 24, 1958

MRS. OSCAR OAKLAND (AASNES, SOLAR)
Funeral services for Mrs. Oakland will be held Friday, February 18 at 12:30 at the home and at 1:30 at the North Beaver Creek church with Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Millie Ramsli was born December 25, 1873 at Aasnes, Finskov, Solar, Norway. Her parents were Gunerius and Kjesti Ramsli. She was baptized by Pastor Berg at Gretvyken church, Aasnes and confirmed in the same church by Pastor Fritjof Heltberget. She emigrated to America in 1900. Her first home in this country was at Manistee, Michigan. After a brief period of employment there and later at Independence, Wisconsin, she spent the following three years on her brother, Christ Ramsley�s farm near North Bend. On November 3rd, 1904 she was united in marriage to Oscar Oakland. Their home has been on the present farm south of Franklin ever since. Mrs. Oakland has been in poor health the past two years. Last November she suffered a stroke from which she never fully recovered. She passed away from a heart attack Friday, February 11, 1944 at the age of 70 years, one month and 17 days. She is survived by her husband and the following children: George, Preston, Minnesota; Clarence, present address unknown; Gertie (Mrs. Magnus Johnson), Ettrick; Omer, serving in the U.S. Navy overseas; Mary (Mrs. Arthur Anderson, Melrose; and Agnes at home. Two daughters preceded her in death, Malinda in 1915 and Randi, March 12, 1927. There are two grandchildren, Marlene and Clarice Johnson. She is also survived by a brother Christ Ramsley of Melrose and a sister Leah (Mrs. John Ljostvedt) of Minneapolis and three sisters in Norway. Mrs. Oakland has been a member of the North Beaver Creek church since her marriage. She was a dutiful wife and mother. The memory of her kindness, patience and devotions will long be cherished by her loved ones. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 17, 1944

MRS. PETER P. OAKLAND (HEDMARKEN)
The funeral services of the late Mrs. Peter Oakland were held at the home last Friday, April 6th, Rev. George Bredeson, officiating. The remains were laid to rest in the old Beaver Creek cemetery. Deceased had been seriously sick only ten days previous to her death on March 27 1923. She was born February 10, 1849 in Hedmarken, Norway. She was married in Norway to Peter Olson and together they came to this country in 1884, settling at Fairchild. About two years later her husband was accidentally killed in a sawmill at Campton, Wisconsin. After his death, she moved to Beaver Creek where in 1890, she was united in marriage to Peter P. Oakland. They moved from Beaver Creek to Eau Claire, remaining there a couple of years when they moved to their present home in Trump Coulee. Besides the aged husband, she also leaves three children to mourn her death, namely: Ole Oakland of Voltaire, North Dakota; Mrs. A.G. Opsahl of Hatton, Sask., Canada and Christ Oakland, also of the latter named place. The children were here to attend the funeral services except Mrs. Opsahl. Deceased is also survived by a brother in Norway. THE TAYLOR HERALD - APRIL 13, 1923

PETER ODEGAARD (SOLAR)
Pete Odegaard passed away Wednesday morning January 22, 1930 at the home of his sister, Mrs. T.S. Amundson in Blair, aged 68 years, 5 months and 10 days. He was born in Solar, Norway, August 12, 1861. He emigrated to America with his parents in 1871. His whole life since has been spent in this community. He was an industrious man of quiet unassuming ways, much esteemed by those with whom he came in contact. His mother preceded him in death in November 1916, his father in February 1917, a brother, Otto, passed away some twenty years ago. Since the death of his parents, he made his home with his brother, Oscar, until five years ago when he came to his sister�s home and where he received the best of attention and care during his long illness. About six years ago he suffered a stroke of paralysis and a year later another stroke left him further disabled and since that time his strength gradually ebbed away. He leaves to mourn his death two sisters and four brothers: Mrs. Andrew Olson, Union, Montana; Eddie, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Peter, LaCrosse; Tom, Ettrick; Oscar and Mrs. T.S. Amundson, Blair. Funeral services were held at the T.S. Amundson home at 1:00 p.m. and the Trempealeau Valley church at 2 p.m. January 24th, the pastor, Rev. Sweger, officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 30, 1930

TOSTEN T. ODEGARD (GRUE, SOLAR)
North Beaver Creek and the First Lutheran congregation of the valley lost a good friend in the death of T.T. Odegard. Osten Tostenson Odegard was born September 19, 1867 in Grue, Solar, Norway to the parents, Tosten O. Odegard and his wife, Eli Brsaaten. He was baptized in the main congregation of the Grue parish. When Tom (as he was affectionately called) was two years old, his parents and family moved to America and settled in Trempealeau Valley. In due season he was instructed God�s Truth and was confirmed on Ascension day in 1883 in the Trempealeau Valley church by the sainted Brynjolf Hovde. On June 21, 1899 he was united in matrimony with Nellie Herreid who was his constant companion until his death. They made their home on the Herreid homestead which was his home until his death. In the days of his strength, Mr. Odegard was a strong and energetic man. However, he was weakened from a stroke in 1917. Subsequent strokes weakened his condition in 1924, 1928 and in 1933 he became bed-ridden. He suffered patiently under his affliction. His devoted wife was always on hand to serve him in his needs and sought to make him comfortable. His children at home also did all in their power to make his last months of life as happy and comfortable as possible. T.T. Odegard served in many official capacities in his congregation, serving them well and faithfully. Death came on Thursday morning, October 16, 1935. Funeral services were conducted from the home at 1 p.m. and from the North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 19. A very large host of friends attended the last sad rites. The Rev. Urberg preached on the longing of Christians to depart and be with Christ. He was laid to rest in the family lot which is just to the rear of the beautiful little church where his children were baptized and confirmed and where he and his family regularly worshiped received the Lord�s supper and found strength in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He is survived by his wife and following children: Norman of Milwaukee; Theressa Birkeland of Stoughton; Chester, Hazel Glass of Milwaukee; Marion, Celeste Halvorson of Blair and Glen; also two grandchildren, Gorden Dean Odegard and Anders Birkeland. The following brothers and sisters survive: Martha Olson of Union, Montana; Alida Amundson of Blair; Peter of LaCrosse; Eddie of Minneapolis and Oscar of Blair. Two brothers preceded him in death: Peder in 1930 and Otto Martin in 1907, twin sister died as young children. Our friend, Tom Odegard, was a good man. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 24, 1935

TOSTEN ODEGAARD
Tosten Odegaard died at his home in Trump Coulee last Saturday night at the age of 79 years. He leaves seven children to mourn his death, his wife having died last November. The children are: Tom Odegaard, Ettrick; Pete Odegaard at home; Peter Odegaard at Galesville; Ed. Odegaard, Minneapolis; Mr. Theodore Amundson of Blair and Oscar at home. The funeral was held today at the Trempealeau Valley church at 2:00 o�clock. Mr. Odegaard was one of the old and respected settlers of this community and a man respected among neighbors and acquaintances, and his death is deeply mourned. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 15, 1917

HANS ODEGAARD (NORWAY)
Hans Odegaard, 93, died Tuesday, January 22, 1971 of an apparent heart attack. He had apparently gone to the woodshed to bring in wood for the evening when he was stricken. A neighbor found his body when he became alarmed by not seeing smoke coming from the chimney. He was born in Norway July 30, 1877 to Mr. and Mrs. Ole Odegaard. At the age of four, he came to America with his parents, two brothers and a sister. They settled near Taylor in Jackson County, where he was a lifelong farmer in the Town of Springfield with the exception of about eight years spent homesteading in Montana. He was a member of the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran church and was the last member of his family. He never married. Only survivors are a niece, Clara R. Peterson, of Whitehall and two nephews, Lawrence Amundson of Taylor and Elden Amundson of Plymouth, besides two grand-nieces and two grand-nephews. His parents, four brothers and two sisters preceded him in death. Funeral services were held January 25 at Trempealeau Valley Lutheran Church with the Rev. Vern Barlow officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 4, 1971

ELI ODEGAARD (GRUE, SOLAR)
Eli Petersdatter was born at Grue, Solar, Norway, March 20, 1835 and died at her home in Trump Coulee, November 26, 1916, aged 81 years, 8 months and 6 days. In 1863 she was united in marriage to Tosten Odegaard and in 1869 they emigrated to the United States. They settled on a farm in the Town of Springfield, Jackson County, which has since been their home. To them were born ten children, three of them preceded her in death. Deceased leaves to mourn her loss, the aged husband and seven children namely: Thomas, Oscar and Mrs. Theodore Amundson of Blair, Peter of Galesville, Eddie of Minneapolis and Mrs. Andrew Olson of Union, Montana, all of whom were present at her bedside and funeral excepting the latter. A sister, Mrs. A. Peterson of Chicago, also survives her. Deceased had 31 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. The funeral was held at the Trempealeau Valley church November 29, Rev. Andrew Boe officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 7, 1916

BERNT E. ODEMOE (RINGSAKER)
Bernt E. Odemoe was born in Ringsaker, Norway September 13, 1857. He emigrated to America in 1876. His first home was with a cousin near Wells, Minnesota. He came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin in 1884 and purchased the present Mrs. George Thompson farm. He was united in marriage to Mary Olson at North Bend in 1885. His wife passed away January 14, 1915 and the following year he sold his farm to George Thompson. The following three years were spent at Brocket, North Dakota. He was engaged in various occupations the succeeding seven years in the neighborhood of North Bend. In 1925 the present farm home between Holmen and Galesville was purchased and he resided here with his son, Bennie, until his death. Mr. Odemoe died on March 12, 1938 after only three days illness. The cause of death was pneumonia with heart complications. He was 80 years and 6 months at the time of his death. Four children survive: Edwin, Melrose; Mrs. Otto Tweten, Brocket, North Dakota; Mrs. Willie Salzwedel, Ettrick; and Bennie, Holmen. A sister, Gunda Bye, lives in Norway. A son, Harold, preceded him in death. There are 13 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 15 at the Smith Funeral Home, Galesville and the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church, Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. K.L. Underheim sang a solo at the church. Pallbearers were Olaf Black. Martin Hanson, Carl Severson, Lewis Herreid, Carl Hagestad and John Ricoldson. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 24, 1938

OLE E. ODEGAARD (N. FROEN, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Another one of our study pioneers has left the ever diminishing ranks of the men and women who helped bring this community to the high state of development which we now enjoy. This time it becomes our duty to chronicle the death of Ole E. Odegaard, who passed away at his home east of Taylor at the ripe old age of 93 years, 5 months and 9 days. While Mr. Odegaard�s advanced and long age made it impossible for him to pursue his farm work, his health has been such that he was able to be up and around until the first part of July in this year when he suffered a light stroke, after which he became helpless and was confined to his bed, passing away Sunday, August 23, 1931. Deceased was born at Nordre Froen, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, March 14, 1838, and was a son of Ellan and Anna Odegaard. In 1871 he was married to Miss Rachel Hanson, remaining in Norway until 1881 when they came to America. His wife preceded him in death. To this marriage union, eight children were born, four of whom are now living and reside of this community. They are Redvald, August and Hans at home and Mrs. Mary Amundson who resides on a farm south of Taylor. A son died in infancy, a son Amund and daughter Randy died in 1881, and a son Edward died in 1914. When he first came to America he located on a farm in Skutley Coulee known as the Andrew Sustad farm and now owned by Hans Gullickson. He remained there a year, when he moved to the old Bergseth farm, now owned by Ole Huseboe where he lived for several years until in 1900 when he moved to the Ole Prestemon farm east of Taylor where he remained until his death. Funeral services were conducted on Wednesdsay from the home at one o�clock and at two o�clock at the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran church, Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. A large number of relatives and friends were present to pay their last respects to the departed. THE TAYLOR HERALD - AUGUST 28, 1931

JENS OFTEDAHL (FLEKKEFJORD)
Jens Oftedahl was born near Flekkefjord, Norway, October 20, 1859, and emigrated with his parents to America in 1883. His father died August 21, 1906, the mother�s death occurring June 6, 1899. He lived with his parents until his mother�s death; since then he lived most of the time with his brother, Tennis, on the farm and later in town. He was unmarried. Mr. Oftedahl had been bothered with heart trouble for many years and died suddenly Wednesday, December 7th. He is survived by one brother, Tennis of Blair, and two sisters, Mrs. Sophia Anderson of Jyland, Norway and Ingeborg Hanson of Wausau, Wisconsin. Funeral services were held Saturday, December 10, at the Zion Lutheran church, Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 15, 1927

MRS. OLE ODEGAARD (N. FRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Ole Odegaard of the Town of Springfield, one of the old and rugged pioneers of this community, passed away at her home two miles east of Taylor on Friday, September 30, 1921. Deceased suffered a stroke of paralysis and hemorrhage of the brain. All the care and love that a skilled physician and an anxious household could devise and apply for her comfort and assistance were brought into play, but the fiat of Him who rules our incomings and outgoings had been issued and after a short struggle, the sufferer�s spirit peacefully took its flight to that home the Christian believes is the fulfillment of the life everlasting. Mrs. Odegaard was born in Nordre Fron, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway on November 15, 1846, where the early part of her life was passed. She lacked only a month and a half of being 75 years old at the time of her death. She was married in Norway and in 1881, together with her husband, immigrated to America, settling in Jackson County where they have resided continuously. Eight children were born to them, four of whom, together with her aged husband mourn the loss of her departure. The children are namely: Mrs. Adolph Amundson, Taylor; Hans Odegaard of Oswego, Montana; and August and Redvald Odegaard who reside on the home farm east of Taylor. Mrs. Odegaard was a kind and faithful wife and mother and a kind neighbor and friend. She was loved by all who knew her and will be sorely missed in her home and the vacant place therein can never be filled. Funeral services were held on Monday afternoon October 3rd, first at the home and later at the Trempealeau Valley church, Rev. A.J. Boe of Blair, conducting the services. A large concourse of relatives and friends assembled to pay their last tribute to the departed. The floral offerings were many and beautiful, and bore silent testimony of the high esteem in which the departed was held. THE TAYLOR HERALD - OCTOBER 7, 1921

PETER H. ODEGAARD (BIRI)
Peter H. Odegaard, 89, Ettrick, passed away Wednesday, August 17, 1977 at an Osseo Nursing Home. He was born in Biri, Norway, June 21, 1888 to Mr. and Mrs. Hans Odegaard. He came to this country in 1921, settling first in the Osseo area. In 1928 he purchased a blacksmith shop in Ettrick which he sold in 1945. He served overseas in World War I. He was unmarried. He is survived by a brother, Birger, in Norway, a nieces and nephews. Two brothers and a sister preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 20, 1977, at Living Hope Lutheran Church with the Rev. Douglas Brandt officiating. Burial was in the Ettrick cemetery with military rites by the Ettrick American Legion Post. Fossum Funeral Home, Ettrick, was in charge of arrangements. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 25, 1977

TENNIS OFTEDAHL (BAKKE, FLEKKEFJORD)
Tennis Anderson Oftedahl was born on the Oftedahl farm in Bakke Parish near Flekkefjord, Norway, October 14, 1857. His parents were Anders and Olena Oftedahl. He was baptized in the Bakke church October 25, 1857 and confirmed in the same church October 5, 1872. He emigrated to America in April 1880. His first home was with a cousin, Christian Nelson, residing east of Blair. He was united in marriage to Regina Loga in September 1887. In 1890 he purchased a farm in Larkin Valley and was engaged in farming there until 1918. He had previously farmed the present Charles Shelley farm. His parents who had followed him to America, made their home with him until their death. He was engaged in the restaurant business from 1921 to 1935. He was an unusually early riser and four o�clock in the morning would generally find him preparing the restaurant for the day�s business. He held membership in the Zion church and served as janitor and sexton several years. His wife suffered a broken hip many years ago and remained a cripple ever since. She has been confined to the home and most attentively and kindly cared for by her husband all these years. Mr. Oftedahl was taken sick with heart trouble early this winter and gradually declined in healthy until the end came Tuesday evening, April 25, 1938, at the age of 80 years, 6 months and 12 days. He is survived by his aged wife, a daughter, Anna (Mrs. Oscar Toraason) and two step-daughters - Nettie (Mrs. August Knutson) and Sina (Mrs. Peter Brynildson). There are seven grandchildren. A brother, Jens, and three sisters, Mrs. Ole Ingvarson, Mrs. Louis Nelson and Mrs. Carl F. Hanson. All but Mrs. Nelson rest in the Zion cemetery. She is buried in Norway. Mr. Oftedahl was unusually well versed in the Bible. He had received a fine Christian training. He had a cheerful smile and a kindly greeting for everyone. His familiar presence and regular routine are a part of the daily life of Blair that will be missed. In sadness we note the passing of another aged citizen from the ranks of the fast thinning early settlers. Funeral services were conducted at the Zion Lutheran church by Rev. T.E. Sweger at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 30th. Paul Schroeder sang �What a Friend We Have in Jesus� and �Jesus I Come.� The pallbearers were Thomas Toraason, Ben Knudtson, Andrew Nelson, Ole H. Olson, Theodore Amundson and Martin Thompson. Interment was in the family lot in Zion cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 5, 1938

MRS. TENNIS OFTEDAHL (FLEKKEFJORD)
Regina Loga was born on the Loga farm near Flekkefjord, Norway, October 24, 1847. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church of her home parish. The family came to America and settled in Trempealeau County in 1862. Her father, Bernt Loga, homesteaded the present Ole Bjelland farm one mile west of Blair. She was united in marriage to Reinert Larson in 1880. Three children were born to this union, Mrs. Nettie Johnson, Blair; Sina (Mrs. Peter Brynildson), Taylor; and Betsy who died at the age of six years. Her first marriage was of short duration. Her husband died leaving her with the responsibility of three small children. In 1887 she was wed to Tennis Oftedahl. Their first home was on the Charles Shelley farm on the Larkin Valley Ridge. Then the farm in Larkin Valley was bought where they remained almost thirty years. During their stay there, Mrs. Oftedahl cared for her aged father until his death. Her mother passed away many years previously on the Loga farm. She also took care of Mr. Oftedahl�s parents in their declining years. One daughter was born to this marriage, Anna (Mrs. Oscar Toraason), Blair. In 1918 the family moved to Blair where Mr. Oftedahl was engaged in the restaurant business from 1921 to 1935. Mrs. Oftedahl suffered a fall and broke her hip in 1919. She was left in a crippled condition and confined to the home the past twenty years but she bore her lot with remarkable fortitude and patience, never uttered a complaint and met each day with a cheerful smile. The burden of many years fell upon her, the shadows of a great age lengthened about her, and strength of one robust health receded, faculties became dimmed and vision clouded and a life that went far beyond mortal expectancy came to its earthly close Monday, April 3, 1939 at the age of 91 years, 9 months and 10 days. The prayer and longing of her heart had been that she might be granted release. Mrs. Oftedahl was of an industrious nature. From early morn to night she labored on the farm and in the care of those entrusted to her. Her heritage from the pioneers was to regard work as a duty, a joy and a privilege. Even after she became crippled, her hands were busied with tasks that they could do. She was a member of Zion Lutheran church many years. Mr. Oftedahl passed away one year ago April 25. A sister and four brothers preceded her in death. She was the last of her family. Besides the children mentioned there are seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held this Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran church preceded by brief services at the home, the Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. Paul Schroeder will sing �Shadows� and Mrs. J.E. Rhode �I�m But a Stranger Here.� The pallbearers are Theodore Amundson, Andrew Nelson. Selmer Helgeson, Theodore Drangstveit, Charles Shelley and Bennie Knudtson. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 8, 1939

ANDREW OKSNEE (SONDERLAND)
Andrew Oksnee was born November 1, 1843, Sondreland, Norway. His parents were Maren and Sven Oksnee of Sonderland. He obtained his knowledge of the teaching vocation in Christiania and began teaching private home schools at the age of 18. After several years work there, he was called to Wisconsin to continued the same line of work. He came to Wiota, Wisconsin and here he taught school about 18 years. In 1887 he married Clara Grouthaug of Wiota, Wisconsin. They lived in this place for eleven years and then he received a call to the French Creek congregation. They moved to Ettrick in October 1897. Five children were born in Wiota, all of whom survive him. They are: Selma, a nurse in Rochester, Minnesota; Minard, teaching in public schools of Chicago; Henry, at home; Evelyn, teaching school; and Harold, at home. Besides his wife and five children, he is survived by one brother, a banker in Norway. His other four brothers and a sister died several years ago. He resigned from his duties in the year 1917. He died on stomach cancer at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 1920. His death was a beautiful Christian death. His family were all at his bedside with the exception of Evelyn who reached there a few hours too late. The remains were laid to rest in the French Creek cemetery. Rev. C.B. Bestul of French Creek and Rev. S.S. Urberg of Blair, conducting the service. The last 17 years of Mr. Oksnee�s teaching career were spent working with the former Pastor, C.B. Bestul. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 5, 1920

PETER OFSDAHL (BIRI)
Peter Ofsdahl died October 10, 1905. The funeral was held last Saturday from the French Creek church, Rev. Bestul officiating. The pallbearers were Messers. Iver Pederson, P.J. Huff, Ed Johnson and John Pederson of Ettrick; Ole Onsrud of French Creek; and Lars Amunson of Tamarack, all old soldiers of the Civil War. Deceased was born in Biri, Norway, October 27, 1835. He immigrated to this country in 1857, settling on Coon Prairie, Vernon County. He enlisted under Captain Johnson September 23, 1861; was wounded at Stone River, December 31, 1962 and went to the hospital at Nashville, Tennessee where he was pronounced unfit for further duty and received his discharge at Louisville, Kentucky, April 4, 19863. Mr. Ofsdahl leaves a widow and seven children, the latter being Mrs. Charles Johnson of Shevlin, Minnesota; Olaf and Mike, of Estevan, Canada; and Mrs. A.M. Onsrud, Julia, Hans and Andrew, of Frenchville. Mrs. Johnson arrived here the next day after the funeral. Failing to make railroad connections was the chief cause of her not arriving in time to see her father again before he was laid away, it being 17 years since she had seen him. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - OCTOBER 19, 1905

MRS. CLARA OKSNEE (NORWAY)
Mrs. Clara Oksnee, born in Norway March 12, 1863, came to this country when three years old and settled in southern Wisconsin. In 1887 she was married to Andrew Oksnee at Cherry Branch, Viola, Wisconsin. In 1897 they moved here to Ettrick where she continued to live until her death, June 4, 1930. The deceased was a kind, loving, devoted Christian mother, having a large circle of friends to mourn her death. Surviving are three sons, Minard of Chicago, Illinois; Henry at Winona, Minnesota; and Harold of Galeesville and one daughter, Selma of Rochester, Minnesota. One daughter, Evelyn, of Blair passeed on before to the Eternal Life. The deceased leaves three grandchildren, Fern and Beverly Bersing of Blair and Elaine, daughter of Minard. Three sisters live to mourn her death: Mrs. Peter Houg of Woodford, Wisconsin; Mrs. Henry Hanson of Argyle, Wisconsin and Mrs. L. Tollefson of Elbow Lake, Minnesota. Services were held at both Ettrick and French Creek Lutheran churches Saturday afternoon. Her body rests beside her husband in the French Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 19, 1930

MRS. HILDA OIUM (BIRI)
Perhaps one of the saddest instance of a flu stricken family in this region is in the case of John Oium, a farmer living near Eleva. The mother, five boys and four girls were ill at the same time, Mr. Oium being the only one able to be about to care for them. Their relatives and neighbors, however, were steadfast in their friendship and did all that was possible to help the family in their need. Despite all their endeavors pneumonia set in and death claimed the mother and two sons. Mrs. Hilda Oium was born December 8, 1882 in Biri, Norway and died at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 1920. Besides her husband and children, she leaves an aged mother, Mrs. Anthonette Johnson of Whitehall; four sisters, Misses Helen and Annette Johnson and Mrs. Bassett of Chicago; Miss Serine Johnson of Chippewa Falls and two brothers, Johannes and Peder Johnson, whose whereabouts are unknown. Almer was born January 13, 1901 in Chimney Rock and died Friday, February 20, 1920 at 8:30 a.m. Arthur was born May 1, 1917 and passed away in the evening of the same day his brother died. The remaining children are Johnnie, Arnold, Henry, Ella, Helena, Olga and a two week old baby, Hilda Emelia. The funerals were held Saturday, February 27, in the Bennett Valley church, Rev. Westberg and Langebhough officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - MARCH 4, 1920

REV. A. J. OERKE (STAVANGER)
The Rev. A. J. Oerke, 86, retired Norwegian Lutheran pastor of Pigeon Falls, died at the Whitehall Community Hospital at 4 pm. Monday from the results of a heart attack which he suffered on November 9. Funeral services will be held Saturday at the Austin Solboe home in Pigeon Falls at 1:30 and at the United Lutheran church at 2 o�clock, the Rev. C.K. Malmin officiating. Rev. Oerke was born in Skjold, Stavanger, Norway, September 26, 1867, the son of John and Anna Roaldsvik Oerke and one of eleven children. He attended the common schools and in 1881 was graduated with honors from the Koppervik Normal School. In 1882 he came to America and secured employment as teacher in a parochial school at Kenyon, Minnesota, while perfecting himself in the English language. In 1883 he entered the Brekenridge Institute at Decorah, Iowa. In 1884 he took up his studies at the Augsburg College and 1886 entered the Theological Seminary at Minneapolis. Graduating in 1889, he was ordained to the ministry by the Rev. G. Hoyme. His first charge was at Chetek in Barron County, Wisconsin where he had charge of five congregations. In 1895 he came to Pigeon Falls, taking charge of the congregations at Pigeon Falls and Northfield, organizing one at Whitehall in 1899 and taking charge of the one at Independence in 1913. He remained with the latter congregations until the union of the United and Synod churches at Whitehall in 1917. On May 6, 1891, he was joined in marriage to Olga Peterson of Colfax. Seven children were born to them, all of whom survive their father but one, Selma, who died on October 4, 1932. Mrs. Oerke passed away on December 25, 1910. The surviving children are Agnes, Mrs. Austin Solboe of Pigeon Falls; Mildred, Mrs. Carl Stalheim of Milwaukee; Hazel, Mrs. F.C. Kaplan of Aitkin, Minnesota; the Rev. Hjalmer Oerke of Groton, South Dakota; and Gerhard of Pigeon Falls. He also leaves 11 grandchildren. The honorary title of pastor emeritus was conferred upon the Rev. Oerke July 26, 1934, when his son Hjalmer was ordained into the ministry and he retired from active service. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 18, 1943

AXEL K. OLSEN, M. D. (STAVANGER)
Axel K. Olsen, MD. Of Ettrick, Wisconsin was born in Stavanger, Norway, September 15, 1865, son of Peter and Bertha Elizabeth (Osen) Olsen. The father who was a ship carpenter died of yellow fever in South America in 1873. His wife died in Norway a few years later. Axel Olsen came to the United States in 1886 at the age of 21 years. He attended the high school and college in Norway and in the year 1885 he passed the examen atrium (B.A.) at the University of Christiania, Norway. He went to Vermillion, South Dakota, where he became a student at the State University, taking his degree of Master of Arts in the Class of 1890. He commenced his medical studies at Northwestern Medical College in Chicago, 1892-93, attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1893-94, passed the Illinois State Board examination in 1895. In the winter of 1895-96, Dr. Olsen was intern in the Lutheran hospital at Chicago, and in the following summer began practice in Westby, taking charge of the practice of Dr. J. Schreiner. In the fall he returned to Chicago and entered Rush Medical College, where he took his degree in medicine in 1897. He now located in Baldwin, Wisconsin but after three years there came to Ettrick, where there was then no physician and here he had since resided, having built up a good practice in the village and surrounding territory. He erected a neat and commodious residence in Ettrick in the year 1915. Dr. Olsen was first married in the fall of 1897 to Sarah Brager, who was born in Norway, in which country her father gained his living as a timber expert. He died there and his widow came to the United State locating in Blanchardville, where she subsequently died. Mrs. Sarah Olsen was killed in a runaway accident in 1899, leaving one child, Esther, who died at the age of 8 years. May 29, 1902, the doctor married Miss Inger Brager who was sister of his first wife and was also born in Norway, being about ten years old when she came to America. Three children were born to this marriage: Axel K., Jr., Erna Brager and Borge Halvard. Dr. Olsen was a member of the County, State and American Medical Associations. He was a member of the Lutheran church. He died Sunday, April 8, 1923 following a siege of pneumonia. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at the home in Ettrick with Rev. Urberg officiating and Rev. Bestul assisting. About 500 were present to pay their last tributes to one whom they admired so much. Nine doctors were present being from LaCrosse, Blair, Galesville and Whitehall. Ettrick and community are mourning over the loss of this highly respected citizen. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 12, 1923

ANDREW P. OFSDAHL (ETTRICK TOWNSHIP; TREMPEALEAU COUNTY, WI)
Andrew P. Ofsdahl, who is now living practically retired in the village of Ettrick, after a successful career as an agriculturist, was born in French Creek valley, Ettrick Township, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, August 2, 1870. His parents, Peter O. and Martha (Nelsestuen) Ofsdahl, were both natives of Norway. In 1858 Peter O. Ofsdahl came to the United Sates, a single man and located at Westby, Vernon County, Wisconsin, where he found employment. Being an ambitious man, he was not satisfied to work long for others, but after awhile made his way to Trempealeau County, where he bought land and became a farmer. The Civil War coming on, he enlisted as a private in Company B in 1861, and went to the front to fight in defense of the American Union. Receiving a gunshot wound at the Battle of Stone River, December 31, 1862, he was confined to some time to the Nashville hospital and was subsequently discharged on account of physical disability at Louisville, Kentucky, April l4, 1863. He thereupon returned to Trempealeau County and resumed residence on his farm in Ettrick Township, which he set to work to cultivate and improve, and where after a long and successful career as a farmer, he died October 10, 1906. His marriage to Martha Nelsestuen took place in Trempealeau County, but after living a few years together, she died when her son Andrew P. was but eight weeks old. Their family numbered in all seven children. Andrew P. Ofsdahl, after attending school in Ettrick Township, became a student at Galesville University, now known as Gale College, and still later attended the LaCrosse Business College. At the age of 19 he began farming independently on French Creek, buying a farm there which he still owns, consisting of 100 acres, which was purchased from his uncle. Later he increased its size by buying 60 additional acres. At a subsequent period he began specializing in Holstein cattle, in which industry he is still engaged and in which he has been very successful, having bred many fine animals. His arduous labors terminated in 1913, when he gave up the hard work of the farm and took up his residence in the village. He was treasurer of the Ettrick Scandinavian Fire Insurance Company, a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery, to which he devotes much of his time, also in the Ettrick & Northern Railroad and in the Ettrick Lumber Company, besides being a director in the Bank of Ettrick. He is also secretary of the creamy company, having held that position nearly ten years, and is serving in his third year as trustee of the County Asylum at Whitehall, besides having served five years as chairman of the township board. In politics he is a Republican, his religious affiliations being with the Lutheran church. Mr. Ofsdahl was married in 1889 to Laura Larson, who was born in French Creek Valley, daughter of Lars Dafinsrud and Bertha (Johnson) Dafinsrud. Mrs. Ofsdahl's father died before she was born and her mother four years later, so that she has no recollection even of her mother. She was educated in the district schools of Trempealeau County. Mr. and Mrs. Ofsdahl have five children: Loraine, who resides at Fessenden, North Dakota, where he holds the position of cashier in a business house; Blanche Mabel, employed by the Pederson Mercantile Company of Ettrick; Arthur L., Agnes L. and Esther Magdalena. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

AXEL K. OLSEN, M.D. (STAVANGER, NORWAY) (2)
Axel K.Olsen, M.D., of Ettrick, Wisconsin, was born in Stavanger, Norway, September 15, 1865, son of Peter and Bertha Elisabeth (Olsen) Olsen. The father, who was a ship carpenter, died of yellow fever in South America in 1873, his wife dying in Norway a few years later. He came to the United States in 1886 at the age of 21 years. He attended the high school and college in Norway and in the year 1885, he passed the examen atrium (B.A.) at the University of Christiania, Norway. He went to Vermilion, South Dakota where he became a student at the State University, taking his degree of Master of Arts in the Class of 1890. He commenced his medical studies at Northwestern Medical College in Chicago, 1892-93, attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1893-94, passed the Illinois State Board examination in 1895. In the winter of 1895-96 Dr. Olson was intern in the Lutheran Hospital at Chicago, and in the following summer began practice in Westby, taking charge of the practice of Dr. J Schreiner. In the fall he returned to Chicago and entered Rush Medical College, where he took his degree in medicine in 1897. He now located in Baldwin, Wisconsin, but after thee months there came to Ettrick, where there was then no physician and here he has since resided, having built up a good practice in the village and the surrounding territory. His neat and commodious residence in Ettrick was erected by him in 1915. At the present time he holds the position of health officer. Dr. Olsen was first married in the fall of 1897 to Sarah Brager, who was born in Norway, in which country her father gained his living as a timber expert. He died there and his widow came to the United States, locating in Blanchardville, where she subsequently died. Mrs. Sarah Olson was killed in a runaway accident in 1899, leaving on child, Esther, who died at the age of 8 years. May 29, 1901, the Doctor married Miss Inger Brager, who was a sister of his first wife, and was also born in Norway, being about 10 years of age when she came to America. The children of this second marriage are three in number: Axel K, Jr., Erna Brager and Borge Havard. Dr. Olsen if a member of the County, State and American Medical Association. He attends the Lutheran church. He is a well-known and popular citizen, and with his family moves in the best society in this part of the county. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917

 

Back to Home Page