Gaarder Julia Amalia Mrs.
Gaaskjolen Bernt B.
Gaaskjolen Lina Mrs.
Gaaskjolen Oluf
Gaaskjolen Synove Mrs.
Gabriel August
Gabriel Ellie Lund Mrs.
Gabriel Gunder Ole
Gabriel Nels
Balde Olson Rolf
Galstad Ella Mrs.
Garson Agnes
Garthus Amund
Garthus Amund (2)
Garthus Jacob
Garthus Olea J. Mrs.
Gilberg John
Gilbert Anne O. Mrs.
Gilbert G.O.
Gilbert John O.
Gilbert Thomas Mrs.
Gilbert Tosten I.
Gilbertson Alfred E.
Gilbertson Amund C.
Gilbertson Antoinette Mrs.
Gilbertson Bertha Mrs.
Gilbertson Carrie Mrs.
Gilbertson Charles
Gilbertson Christina Mrs.
Gilbertson Dorthea Mrs.
Gilbertson Even O.
Gilbertson Gabe Mrs.
Gilbertson George Mrs.
Gilbertson Gilbert1
Gilbertson Gilbert2
Gilbertson Gilbert3
Gilbertson Gilbert4
Gilbertson Gilbert O.
Gilbertson Gunder
Gelbertson Helmer L.
Gilbertson John
Gilbertson John F.
Gilbertson John O.
Gilbertson John Mrs.1
Gilbertson John Mrs.2
Gilbertson John Mrs.3
Gilbertson Louis F.
Gilbertson Martin
Gilbertson Ole
Gilbertson Oluf
Gilboe Ole J.
Gilboe Ole Mrs.
Gimmestad Lars M. Rev.
Ginney Ole
JOHN F. GILBERTSON
"John F. Gilbertson, who came to Trempealeau County in 1878 and lived on a farm in Arcadia Township fro 1889 up to the time of his death, August 27, 1917 was born near Christiania, Norway, October 10, 1854. He was a son of Gulbrand and Ele Jacobson, who reared him to farm pursuits. In 178, with his chum, Carl Larson, he came to America, landed at New York, and made the trip to Arcadia Village, this county, by rail. Upon reaching here he had but $1.50. This he at once loaned to a friend, who spent it for drink and never paid it back. Beginning in a strange country, without a penny in his pocket, and with no resources save his own strength and intelligence, he started in to carve his fortune, working as a farm hand in the summers and as a woodsman in the winter. In 1889 he located seven miles east of Arcadia Village, in Newcomb's Valley, where he purchased 80 acres of land in section 29, Arcadia Township, to which he subsequently added the adjoining 150 acres in section 25. When he acquired the original tract no buildings had been erected, and only about ten or fifteen acres had been grubbed and broken. Beginning on a small scale he gradually achieved prospertity, and from time to time erected necessary buildings. The improvements on the place consist of a two-story house, erected in 1891, a good barn, 28 by 58 by 16 feet, a granary, a machine shed, a poultry house and other structures, all in the best of condition. Mr. Gilbertson devoted his time to general farming, having 150 acres under the plow and doing considerable dairying and swine raising. The Repulican party claimed his allegiance and his fraternal affiliation was with the Modern Woodmen of America. With his family he attended the Fagerness Norwegian Lutheran Church, three miles east of his home, in the cemetery of which his remains were laid to rest. Mr. Gilbertson was married September 16, 1889, to Julia Braaten, daughter of John and Randi Braaten of Valders, Norway. She came to America at the age of eighteen, and at the time of her marriage was living with a sister near Arcadia. She and her husband were the parents of four children: Alvilda, Laura F., Anna E. and Allen R. Alvilda was born July 5, 1889, and is the wife of Albert Jager of Castlewood. S.D. Laura F. was born January 4, 1891, and is the wife of Melvin Wangan, who operates a farm in Newcomb Valley. Anna E. was born September 19, 1892, graduated from the Arcadia high school and is now a successful teacher. Allen R. was born July 4, 1904, and is now operating his father's farm, on which Mrs Gilbertson still resides." History of Trempealeau County, 1917
AMUND GARTHUS: (VALDERS)
"Monday morning, February 14, 1921, at 7 o'clock, A. Garthus, pioneer resident and merchant of this village passed away after an illness covering a period of four years. Of late he has been confined to his home constantly.
During his many days of illness his devoted wife and children have shown him every care that human mind and hands were capable of, but in spite of all that medical skill and loved ones could do for him, he was called home to abide in rest and peace.
The pioneers of Independence are being called one by one; and we who are here to enjoy the blessings and prosperity that these men made possible, bow in humble recognition of their achievements.
No name is more familiar on the lips of everyone than A. Garthus, and the entire village and community mourn with those who mourn.
The funeral was held Thursday at the Norwegian church with burial at Bethel cemetery, Rev. Hofstad officiating.
Amund Garthus was one of the leading citizens of Independence, and has been intimately associated with its business, political and social life for more than forty years. In building up a successful business he assisted in the development of the village, but the work by which he will longest be remembered was the civic pride. The municipal improvement of the village were his especial hobby, and he gave much of his spare time, and all of his influence, to bring some of these improvements about. For no less than 17 years he was president of the village council, and for 15 years he served on the school board, a long record of public work worthily and efficiently performed.
He was born in Valders, Norway, October 4, 1852. He was reared to manhood in the old country, and in 1880 set out for the U.S.
September 14 of that year he reached Independence, where he obtained work as clerk in a store and was thus occupied for about nine months. He then entered into partnership with Henry Hanson and bought the store of O.P. Larson, which they conducted for two years and a half under the style of Hanson & Garthus. Subsequently Mr. Garthus conducted the business alone until 1884, when the store was destroyed by fire. In the fall of 1885 he started another store with A. J. Johanssen and was associated with him until the spring of 1889, at which time he bought the entire business and conducted it under his personal supervision until about four years ago when ill heath compelled him to leave the care of the business to his three sons, Harold, Ira and Adam who have since conducted the business in a very successful manner.
Mr. Garthus was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church having been secretary of the Independence congregation for many years.
On August 13, 1887, he was married to Susanna Torgerson, of Vernon county." - INDEPENDENCE NEWS WAVE/WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - Feruary 24, 1921
JACOB GARTHIUS: (VALDERS)
"The death of Jacob Gartius occurred last Thursday morning at the home of his son-in-law Andy Anderson, in the town of Pigeon, aged 72 years last February. Deceased is survived by a widow and seven children, namely, Ole of Canada; Harold of Callender, Ia.; John of Canada; Mrs. Andy Anderson of Pigeon; Mrs. A. E. Amundson of Eleva; Thomas of Canada, and Mrs. John Morseth of Derring, N.D. Mr. Garthus was born in Valders, Norway. He has two brothers residing in that country, a brother, A. Garthus of Independence, and a sister, Nurslien of Black Earth, Dane county. The funeral was held at the Andy Anderson home Monday, Rev. A. J. Orke officiating, and the remains taken to Independence for interment." THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - October 12, 1911
TOSTEN I. GILBERT: (WAARUM, VALDERS)
"Tosten Iverson Gilbert died at his home in Blair, Sunday, Septemer 10, 1905, of dropsy, aged 62 years, 7 months and 4 days.
The subject of this notice was born at Waarum, Valdris, Norway, February 6, 1843. He was one of eight children left fatherless in his native country. His mother took her children and came to America in 1857, settling at Manitowoc, Wis. When the Civil war broke out and Lincoln called for 300,0000 men Mr. Gilbert answered the call, enlisting October 12, 1861, in Co. F., 15th Reg. of W.V.I., a Scandinavian regiment, serving until 1865 with the army of the Cumberland, and being in all of the principal battles of that campaign. He was honorably discharged and returned to Manitowoc, where he worked at farming until 1870, when he removed to Springfield, Jackson county. He and Henry Anderson bought a small stock of goods from Mons Anderson, then the LaCrosse "merchant prince." The goods were burned at the depot the night following their arrival, leaving them without merchandise or money to buy more. Anderson gave up in despair, but Mr. Gilbert determined to try again, gathered up a few dollars, less than one hundred, and purchasing another stock opened his store. He succeeded, and a year later, in company with his cousin, Gulbrand O. Gilbert, put up another country store at Reynold's Corners, where Paul O. Strum now resides, near Blair. These two places of business they conducted until the Green Bay railroad was built through the Trempealeau valley, in 1874, and the village of Blair was platted, when they, under the firm name of T. I. Gilbert & Co., began business here. The firm built up an extensive trade, building the first creamery put up in Trempealeau county, and a sorghum mill, bought grain, purchased and pressed hay, and in fact handled everything farmers had to sell. At one time this company was one of the leading firms in this part of the state. They opened a store at Eleva in the 80's and did a thriving business there for a time, but through the perculations of a tricky partner having charge of the business at that place the affairs of the Blair house became involved and the Gilberts failed and lost their all, barely saving their homesteads from the financial wreck. There were probably never two men who labored harder, favored the farmers more, or held the confidence of the people to a greater extent, that Messrs. Gilberts, sturdy, accommodating, pioneer tradesmen of Blair. Their misfortunes came in the afternoon of life, when they could not retrieve their losses, and their mercantile careers ended. Mr. Gilbert was shortly afterward appointed postmaster here, which office he held at the time of his death, serving in this capacity eight years.
Deceased married Miss Maria Thorston in 1872. To the union were born seven children, six of whom, besides the wife, mourn the loss of a dutiful and loving husband and father The children are as follows: Miss Ida; Mrs. Ray Shephard; Miss Minnie; Miss Thrasse, Isaac and Norman. The family were all present at the funeral. N.I. Gilbert (accompanied by his daughter Emma) of Eleva, the only surviving member of deceased's eight brothers and sisters, also attended the funeral , which took place from the United Lutheran church on the 13th, Rev. O. Gulbrandson officiating, assisted by Rev. S.S. Urberg.
And thus has passed away one of the old landmarks of this section, a pioneer businessman and citizen, a benefactor of the community, whose career of good deeds will linger in the memory of his many friends." THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - September 21, 1905
G.O. GILBERT:(VALDERS)
"Another Blair pioneer has been called in the death of G. O. Gilbert, which occurred at his home at Forreston, Minn., on Friday September 7, 1917. Mr. Gilbert was one of the firm of T.I. Gilbert and Co. which was the first firm to open up for business in Blair. They first conducted a store east of the Trempealeau Valley church in the Town of Springfield, in 1870. They opened another store at Strum's corner, just west of Blair, a year or so later and then in the fall of 1873 when the railroad came to Blair they opened up a store on the site now occupied by H.E. Stumpf store. They continued in business here until about 1898 or 1899 when they sold out to Halverson, Hanson and Co. A few years later Mr. Gilbert went to Forreston where he had since made his home.
G.O. Gilbert was born in Norway in 1844 and came to America in the late 1860's. In 1871 he was married to Miss Gusta Thurston, who died October 29, 1898. Four children still survive: O.T. Gilbert of Minneapolis, C.E. and G.A. Gilbert of Forreston, Minn., and A.R. Gilbert of Big Fork, Minn.
The deceased was brought to Blair and the funeral held at the U.N. Lutheran church in charge of Rev. Boe." THE BLAIR PRESS - September 30, 1917
JOHN O. GILBERT: (VAARDEN RUDI, OSTRE SHDRE, VALDERS)
"The death of John O. Gilbert occurred March 29, 1923 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Joseph Coats, Minneapolis, Minn. Old age with other complications had been taking health and strength for some time. He was confined to his bed only about ten days. He was well satisfied to go to the heavenly home and the end was peaceful.
He came to this country from Gaarden Rudi, Ostre Shdre, Valdres, Norway, fifty-four years ago. About two years were spent near Manitowoc. Wis. Later he came to Blair. In the year 1881 he married Caroline A. Johnson of this place. Five children were born to this union, one dying in infancy.
For many years Mr. Gilbert was in the general merchandise and meat market business, also was village post master for eight years. Later he followed the painter's trade until he took up a homestead in South Dakota. For six years he remained on his homestead. Since then the most of his time has been spent in Minneapolis.
Besides the daughter with whom he lived, he leaves Syvert O., Carl G. and Mrs. Nels M. Hanson, all of Minneapolis, who all accompanied the remains to Blair. Services were conducted at the Zion Lutheran church at 2:30 o'clock, Saturday, March 31st with Rev. Boe in charge." THE BLAIR PRESS - April 5, 1923
GILBERT GILBERTSON: (VALDERS)
"Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Rhode Chapel and Our Saviour's Lutheran church for Gilbert Gilbertson, 79, who died at the local hospital July 21. The Rev. O.G. Birkeland officiated at the last rites and a group from the Senior Choir, accompanied by Mrs. G.N. Pederson sang three hymns, "I Know of a Sleep in Jesus' Name," "Behold a Host Arrayed in White," and "Bedre kan ye ikke fare." Pallbearers were Oscar Moe, Bennie Lien, Thom Gunderson, Alfred Halvorson, Arnold Britten and Oliver Hawkenson, white flowers were carried by two grandchildren, Shirley Ann and Adeline Gilbertson, and by Adeline and Charlotte Lien.
Mr. Gilbertson was born April 10, 1864, in Valders, Norway, the son of Gilbert and Olea Olson. When he was six years old the family came to this country, settling in Dane county, Wis. About 10 years later they came to Irvin Coulee south of Whitehall as pioneers and that has been the family home ever since. Mr. Gilbertson and Christine Christopherson were married at Blair May 4, 1887, and established their home on his father's farm. Four children were born to them, all of whom survive together with Mrs Gilbertson. The children are Mrs. Laura Pahnke of LaCrosse; Clara, Mrs. Albert Pederson of Madison; Gustav on the home farm and Albert of Chicago. Deceased also leaves 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren besides only two sisters of an original family of eight. The sisters are Mrs. Tena Lien and Mrs. Carrie Fryslie of Whitehall.
Mr. Gilbertson had been in failing health for two years. Committed to Mendota for care this spring, he was moved to the Trempealeau county institution on June 11 and there met with the accident which resulted in his death, stepping from a second story window July 18 and fracturing both limbs, one of which had to be amputated." (no newspaper or date listed)
MRS. DORTHEA GILBERTSON: (LUNDE, VALDERS)
"Mrs. Dorthea Gilbertson was born at Lunde, in Valdres, Norway, July 20, 1950. Her parents, Kari Ostensdatter and John Knutson were among the first to leave their native district and come to America. They came to Springdale, Dane county, Wis., in the summer of 1851. Here Mrs. Gilbertson grew to womanhood. When the Civil War came on, her father enlisted in the army. This, naturally, added a severe privation to their pioneer life. In 1972 she married Martin Gilbertson, and in 1874 came with her husband to Chemmerhorn, Jackson county, where the rest of their lives were passed. Mr. Gilbertson died in 1918. Since an attack of influenza in 1916, Mrs. Gilbertson was a constant sufferer from ailments beyond the doctors skill to cure. During most of the last three years of her life she was confined to bed Her final relief came in early morning of June 7. Her funeral, conducted by Rev. Christophersen in his church at Pigeon Falls June 10, was largely attended.
Mrs. Gilbertson was the mother of twelve children, two of whom died in infancy. Those living are: Mary Berget, John Gilbertson, and Gustav Gilbertson of Schemmerhorn, Jackson county, Caroline Hellom, of Beloit, Wis., Nettie Thompson, Northfield, Wis., Christine O'Brian, Madison, Wis., Dora Evenson, Dwight, N.D., Christian Gilbertson and Adolph Gilbertson, Whitehall, Wisconsin and Hulda Eid, Northfield, Wisc. All children were present at the funeral, except Dora Evenson. Three sisters survive her: Ragnhild Nelson and Christine Hanson of Pigeon and Mrs. Gilbert Gran of Northfield, and two brothers, Chris Lunde of Mt. Horeb, Wis., and Knut Lunde of Prosper, Minn. She is also survived by 22 grandchildren." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - June 15, 1927
MRS. JOHN GILBERTSON: (NORDRE AURDAL, VALDERS)
"Mrs. John T. Gilbertson passed away at her home in Blair shotly before midnight Sunday evening, April 11th. She was 72 years, 2 months and 5 days old at the time of her death. Funeral services were conducted by her pastor Rev. Johan Olson, assisted by Rev. T.E. Sweger at the home and the Fagernes church, of which she had long been a faithful member Wednesday, April 14th, the pall bearers were August Knutson, Sam Hanson, Eddie Hermanson, Adolph Olson, Gleston Gunnelson and Alf Peterson. Mrs. Orlin Erickson gave a vocal solo. There were several memory wreaths in honor of the deceased.
She was born in Nordre Aurdal, Valdres, Norway, February 6, 1865. Her maiden name was Guri Braaten, the daughter of John and Rangdi Bergum Braaten. She was baptized and confirmed by the same pastor Rev. L.M. Fjorn in the Skrutvols church. She received the best of Christian training in a home where the word of God was held in honor. At the age of 18 years she left the homeland with her sister Anna for America. They arrived in Blair July 3, 1883, where an older sister and other relatives met them and found work for them. In 1888 she was united in marriage to John T. Gilbertson. They purchased land in Newcomb Valley where a splendid farm was built up by their industry.
Her husband died August 17th, 1917. Her son Allen has conducted the farm since. Mrs. Gilbertson has made her home with her children the greater share of the time she has lived in Blair in the home that she purchased.
At the age of 35 years she suffered a severe attack of rheumatism which left her seriously crippled in body but could not cripple her mind and spirit which ever retained a bright and hapy outlook on life. Kindness and cheefulness brightened the path for her and those with whom she came in contact. She made diligent use of the means of grace and loved the House of God.
The following chidren mourn the loss of a devoted mother: Alice (Mrs Albert Jager) of Castlewood, South Dakota; Laura (Mrs. Alfred Skorstad) Blair; Anna (Mrs. Fred Skorstad) Blair and Allen on the home place. There are ten grandchildren. Three sisters also survive, Mrs. Anna Hermanson of Whitehall and two sisters of Norway." THE BLAIR PRESS - April 22, 1937
MRS. JULIA AMALIA GAARDER (ROMERIKE)
Mrs. Julia Amalia Gaarder died Friday, July 8, 1932 at her home on Pete Coulee of cancer. She was born March 29, 1872 in Ness Romerike, Norway. In 1897 she was married to Adolph Gaarder at Oslo, Norway. To their union was born one child. The Gaarder family came to Black River Falls, Wisconsin, in 1905. They went to Miles City, Montana in 1908 and in 1912, they went to Billings, Montana where Mr. Gaarder died July 2, 1921. In 1927 Mrs. Gaarder and daughter came to Taylor, Wisconsin. The deceased leaves to mourn her departure a daughter, Ingeborg; two sisters, Mrs. Mike Olson and Mrs. Chris Halvorson of Taylor and three brothers, Ole Sather of Taylor; Martin Sather of Viroqua and Anton Sather of Aarnes, Norway. The deceased was carried to her last resting place by her nephews. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 21, 1932
MRS. LINA GAASKJOLEN (GRUE, SOLAR)
Lina Granberg was born in Grue Parish, Solar, Norway, March 13, 1854. She was baptized March 26th of the same year. At 14 years of age she emigrated with her parents, Ole and Helene Granberg to America, coming to Trempealeau county. She was confirmed that same summer in Trempealeau Valley church by Rev. Ole Waldeland on the 19th of July 1868. This was the first class confirmed in then new church building and was extremely large. There are but few members of this confirmation living at the present time. Although she had received most of her instruction in Norway, and had met only a few times with the pastor here, she is recorded in the records as having a very good knowledge of Christian Truth. At Black River Falls March 25, 1872, she was united in marriage to John Gaaskjolen. Their first home was the present O.B. Borsheim residence which was erected by her husband. A few years later they homesteaded part and purchased the rest of the Gaaskjolen farm in Larkin Valley. Mrs. Gaaskjolen resided on the farm until two years ago when she moved to Blair and made her home since with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Neri Nerison, where every effort was made to make her declining years pleasant and comfortable. Her sight began to fail several years ago. She has been totally blind for the past six years. She bore this and other afflictions with extreme patience. Hers was a tranquil spirit, seemingly undisturbed by the storms of life. Her life had been filled with industry. It was not strange that the weary patient soul longed for rest. She passed away Wednesday, August 13, 1930. Funeral services were held Saturday, August 16th at the Neri Nerison home and in the Zion Lutheran church in charge of Rev. T.E. Sweger assisted by Rev. S.S. Urberg. Ms. A.J. Sather sang �The Silver Chord� and the favorite hymn of the deceased, �Den Store Hvide Flok�. The following children are left to mourn the loss of a kind mother: Ole, Aneroid, Saskatchewan; Mrs. Neri Nerison, Blair; Oscar, Wisconsin Rapids; Olaf, William and Lewis on the home farm; Joseph of Necedah; Mrs. Lillian Ward and Mrs. Minnie Sowatzka, Blair. Her husband and four children preceded her in death: Mrs. Caroline Calvert died in Minneapolis in 1897, Henry in Wyoming in August 1900 and Mary and Mabel in early childhood. There are 17 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. One brother and two sisters also survive: Henry Granberg of Oshkosh; Mrs. Ole Grasberg and Mrs. Andrew Benson of Blair. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 28, 1930
BERNT B. GAASKJOLEN (ELVERUM)
Berndt B. Gaaskjolen was born Elverum, Norway, on the 24th day of September, 1844. His boyhood days were spent on the farm with his parents and he obtained his education at the Arndt School. On the 13th day of October, 1866, he was united in marriage to Jonine Stratte of Solar, and on the first day of the following April, they left Norway bound for America. After a journey of nine weeks on the Atlantic, they arrived and came immediately to Trempealeau county where he filed and settled on a homestead in the town of Preston, and resided there until his death which occurred on the 7th of February last (1917), after having been a patient sufferer from asthma for a number of years. To this union were born twelve children, nine of whom survive, besides his aged wife, 7 daughters and 2 sons, namely: Mesdames E. Holmberg of Spokane, Washington; J.E. Lundeen and Anna Sterling of Minneapolis; J.S. Johnson of Maple Plain, Minnesota; Lettie Skow of Milwaukee; L.N. Larson and Melvin Mason of Blair and Messrs. C.B. Gaaskjolen of Whiteney, South Dakota; B.B. Gaaskjolen of Maddock, North Dakota. O.B. Gaaskjolen, a son, died at Minneapolis in 1906 at the age of 23 years and two children died in infancy. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 15, 1917
OLUF GAASKJOLEN (ELVERUM)
The death of Oluf O. Gaaskjolen occurred at the home of his son, O.O. Gusk in Savlie Coulee on the old home place, on Sunday, June 16, 1918. Deceased was born in Elverum, Norway, June 24, 1841 and with his wife, came to this country in 1882. They first settled in Rat Coulee and in 1884, ought the farm in Salvie Coulee now occupied by his son, Ole and where they have always since that time made their home. His wife died in 1911. Three children were born to them, Olof dying in 1883 at the age of 14 and one daughter, Mrs. M. Tollefson of Beaver Creek, and O.O. Gusk, living on the old homestead, still surviving. The funeral was held at the U.N. Lutheran church Wednesday. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 20, 1918
MRS. SYNOVE GAASKJOLEN (SOGN)
Mrs Synove Gaaskjolen was born in Sogn, Norway, February 12, 1848. She came to America with her father, Peder Olson, while yet a young girl. In 1873 she was married to Knudt Olson Gaaskjolen. To this union were born twelve children, of which ten are living, namely: Peter, Oscar, ?, Brede, Mrs. Sophia Heglund, Mrs. Clara Beck, Mrs. Julia Hegland, Elmer, ?, Oline and Bert. Two children died in infancy. Knudt, her husband, died in January 1900. She has resided on the old homestead in Trump coulee continuously up to the time of her death, August 6, 1915. About 7 years ago, she was stricken with paralysis, and had been in failing health until death came to her relief. The funeral services were held at the Trempealeau Valley church Monday, August 9th, Rev. S.S. Urberg officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - AUGUST 19, 1915
AUGUST GABRIEL (TRONDJHEIM)
A sudden heart attack while walking home from work claimed the life of August Gabriel, 52, about 6:30 Friday evening, June 14. Mr. Gabriel, who had been doing plumbing work at the Whitehall Packing company plant, employed by F.O. Bitter, was going home to supper at the time. He walked with Douglas Mason as far as the latter�s residence, continued on his way about 50 feet and fell in front of the Cities Service bulk station, where he was found a few minutes later by Homer Olson, who was returning to work at the Olson Feed Store. He had collapsed about a block from home. Olson called Dr. R. l. MacCormack and notified the family, but Gabriel was dead when found. Corner Marti A Wiemer, Independence, who was called, said that death was due to a heart attack. Mr. Gabriel was born in Trondjheim, Norway, November 20, 1893, son of Nels Gabrielson and his wife, Oline. When he was 18 years old, he came to this country joining his brother at Kansas City. Layer he came to Blair and established a blacksmith shop but enlisted in the First World War and served in France with Company E, 55th Engineers. On October 21, 1921, he was joined in marriage to Mabel Tofte of Whitehall, who survives him, together with thee children, Norman, Mavis and Gale, all at home. He also leaves his aged father, Nels Gabrieldson and one sister, Mrs. Leif Hubjert of Kiriansand, Noray and one brother, Gotleif Gabrielson of Riverton, Wyoming. His son, Norman, who fought in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany during World War II, was stationed in Norway before coming home and visited his grandfather and aunt in that country. Deceased was preceded in death by three brothers, one of whom was killed in World War II while serving as a skipper on a Norway ship. Funeral services were held at the Rhode chapel and at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church Tuesday afternoon, the Rev. O.G. Birkeland officiating. Members of Huchinson-Stendahl Post, American Legion attended in a body, some in Legion uniform, some in the uniform of World War II. The color guard took part in the rites at the church and the firing squad fired the salute and taps were sounded at the grave in Lincoln cemetery. Pallbearers were Lewis Davidson, F.O. Bitter, Ole Haug, Julus Linbrg, William Pederson and Lyle Smith, while the flowers were carried by Mmes. Walter Draeger, D.A. Bendsend, William Pederson and Norman Garson. A group from the Senior choir sang �My God I Know That I Must Die,� �I need Thee Every Hour� and �Still, Still With Thee.� THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JUNE 20, 1946
NELS GABRIEL (SOLAR)
Nels Gabriel was born in Solar in the eastern part of Norway, May 28, 1846. He grew to young manhood in the land of his fathers and here he was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He was united in marriage to Elie Lund on November 25, 1868. His heart had been set for some time on the land of freedom with its many promises and where so many of his countrymen had preceded him, so he set sail with his young bride in 1870 on an ocean voyage long and tedious in those days, much more so it seems in an age of aeroplanes and fast going steamers. He came to Trempealeau County, where he found many of his friends and neighbors of his native parish. Three years later his father and mother came to America. In Trump Coulee he passed the remainder of his days, an honest and industrious citizen who built up a splendid farm of a many acres, and a circle of esteem and friendship with many enduring ties and did his share with his compatriots to build up a happy and prosperous community. He was a faithful member and supporter of the Trempealeau Valley congregation. Mr. Gabriel reached the ripe old age of 82 years a life rich in toils and sorrows, but also joys and hopes. He was seriously sick this spring and it was thought at the time that the end was near, but he rallied and seemed in fair health until a day or two preceding his death, when he was confined to his bed and it was soon apparent to the anxious watchers at his bedside that life was ebbing to its close. He quietly passed away early Saturday morning, November 24, 1928. His wife, with whom he spent 55 happy married years, preceded him in death, October 7, 1923. A sister, Mrs. Jule Tappen, died this spring. Two other sisters, Mrs. Peder Jonsrud and Mrs. Ella Peterson, died some years ago. He leaves the following brothers: Bernt Nelson, Blair; Gunder Nelson, Trump Coulee; Ole Nelson, Washington state and the following children to mourn the loss of a kind and affectionate father: Mrs. T.H. Severson, Eleva; Ole Gabriel, Blair; Bennie Gabriel, Alma Center, Mrs. J.A. Engebretson, Taylor; Oscar Gabriel, Arcadia; Nicolai Gabriel, at home; Mrs. Nel Larson Springfield; Mrs. Willie Larson, Taylor; and Thomas Gabriel, at home. Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 27, at the Trempealeau Valley church and were very largely attended. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 29, 1928
MRS. ELIE LUND GABRIEL (SOLAR)
Mrs. Elie Lund Gabriel died at her home in Trump Coulee Sunday, October 7, 1923 at the age of 77 years, 21 days after a lingering illness of heart trouble and pneumonia. Mrs. Gabriel was born in Solar, Norway September 15, 1846. She was married to Nels Gabriel on November 25, 1868. Mr. Gabriel then left for America where he located a home for the family three miles south of Blair where she joined him two years later. It was at this home where she left this earth to go to Jesus in his heavenly home. She is survived by her sorrowing husband and ten children, namely, Mrs. L.H. Severson of Eleva, Wisconsin; Ole of Blair; Oscar of Arcadia; Nick of Whitehall, Bennie of Alma Center; Mrs. J.A. Engebretson of Blair; Mrs. Nels Larson of Springfield; Mrs. Will Larson of Taylor and Amanda and Thomas at home; and a grandson, Newlon, whom she brought up from infancy also at home. A daughter preceded her in death. She also leaves 23 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Gabriel was reared in the faith of the Lutheran church and of Ladies Aid. She was devoted to her family giving her best efforts to her husband and children. She was a kind neighbor and friend and was esteemed by her many friends in this community whom will greatly miss her. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 18, 1923
ROLF OLSON GALDE (LORN, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Rolf Olson Galde passed away at the Sacred Heart hospital in Eau Claire on Thursday, July 17, 1919. The funeral was held from his home at Osseo Sunday, July 20, 1919, Rev. Aune officiating and interment was made in the Osseo cemetery. Rolf O. Galde was born in Lorn, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, on March 16, 1851, and came to America in 1872. He spent one year in Stoughton, coming from there and settling on his farm in Hale, where he resided until 1912, when he sold the farm and moved to Osseo, where he has since made his home. Mr. Galde was a man of sterling qualities and will be greatly missed by his sorrowing family and numerous friends. He leaves to mourn his loss his sorrowing wife and two daughters, Louise and Rose, besides a brother, Ole, in St. James, Minnesota; one sister, Mr. P.S. Barland, Summit, South Dakota; and one sister and a brother in Norway. His was one of the largest funerals ever held in Osseo, showing the high esteem in which he was held. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. He pallbearers were John Nokleby, Christian Kolden, Andrew Davidson, Peder Otterstad, Hans Pederson and Ludvig Larson. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - JULY 24, 1919
GUNDER OLE GABRIEL (GRUE, SOLAR)
Gunder Ole Gabrield was born in Grue, Solar, Norway, August 22, 1855. He was baptized and confirmed in his homeland, coming to America at the age of 16 years. He was married to Luella Mathson Holte September 15, 1881 and to this union ten children were born. His wife with whom he spent 53 years of married life died December 4, 1934. Three children, Lena, Clara and Adella, three sisters Mrs Jule Tappen, Mrs. Peter Jonsrud and Mrs. Eli Peterson and a brother, Nels Gabriel preceded him in death. He passed away after a short illness July 17, 1938 at the age of 82 years, 10 months and 25 days at his home in Trump Coulee where he had spent 57 years of his life. He leaves to mourn his death seven children: Bertha, Mrs. N.T. Edwin, Lodgepole, South Dakota; Selma, Mrs. N.J. Jones, Naches, Washington; Henry, Glad Valley, South Dakota; Gene, Mrs Olaf Anderson Blair; Mabel, Mrs. Mabel Nystron, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Goodwin and Evelyn, Mrs. Goodwin Christianson, at home; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Nadine Jones from Naches who was present at the funeral. A brother, Berndt, of Blair also survives. He was buried Thursday afternoon, July 21 at the Evangelical Lutheran church of Trempealeau Valley of which he was a member. Pallbearers were nephews of the deceased: Palmer Jonsrud, Ole Johnson, Bennie Gabriel, Thomas Gabriel, Olaus Tappen and Jule Mathson. Besides flowers, memorial wreaths in his honor were given to Old People�s Home in Wittenberg, Foreign Missions, Trempealeau Valley church and the WCAL radio station. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 4, 1938
AGNES GARSON (SIRDAL)
Funeral services for Mrs. Agnes Garson, 83, Mondovi, who died Thursday (December 26, 1985) in the American Lutheran Home here, will be at 1 p.m. Monday in Trinity Lutheran Church, Norden. The Revs. Etlar Johnson and Herbert Hanson will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. She was employed for several years as a legal secretary She was born April 21, 1902 in Sirdahl, Norway, to Hans and Aselene Torjusdatter Endal and the family immigrated to the Norden area, rural Eleva, in 1910. She graduated from Eau Claire (Wisconsin) Business College. On June 5, 1943, she and Aaru Garson were married in Norden. He died April 29, 1949. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Norden, and had served as church organist for 42 years. Survivors are a stepdaughter, Mrs. Juno (Beatrice) Johnson, Red Wing, Minnesota; five step-grandchildren and seven step-great-grandchildren. Arranges were made by Kjentvet & Son Funeral Home in Mondovi. THE LACROSSE TRIBUNE (DATE NOT RECORDED)
MRS. ELLA GALSTAD (SONDRE FRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Ella Simonson Galtad died at her son�s home August 29 of apoplexy. She had been failing since last December and in that time suffered three strokes of paralysis. She was born in Sondre Fron, Gulbransdalen, Norway, February 2, 1839. She came to America about 1867, settling in Coon Valley, where she lived until her removal here with her son, Sever, with whom she has made her home. In 1868 she was married to Johannes Galstad who preceded her death, passing away in 1900. Her body was brought to Chaseburg where interment was made beside her husband. She leaves to mourn her death a brother, Ole Simonson of Disco; three children O.J. and Sever Galstad of Whitehall and Mrs. Ludvig Hagen and a step-daughter, Mrs. Lena Geary of LaCrosse. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - BANNER - SEPTEMBER 18, 1919
JOHN GILBERG (NORWAY)
John Gilberg, a former resident of this community, died May 13, at the home of his son, Albert Gilberg at Galesville. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon in the Tamarack church, conducted by Rev. John Olson, and interment was made in the church cemetery. Mr. Gilberg was a native of Norway, born February 4, 1853 and came to this country 55 years ago, settling on a farm in Big Tamarck and there is where he resided until six years ago, when he retired and sold the farm to Alfred Gilbertson. During that time he was janitor of the Tamarack church for nearly 18 years. Mrs. Gilberg died 27 years ago. The surviving children are Mrs. John Larson, Lavina, Montana; Mrs. Clara Amundson, Fountain City; Julius, Oscar and Martin, Trempealeau; Albert of Galesville; Mrs. William Hanson, Arcadia and Ella Gilberg, Winona. One daughter, Mrs. Bennie Smikrud, died two years ago. Two children died in infancy. There are 25 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 28, 1931
MRS. OLEA J. GARTHUS (SOGNDALEN)
Mrs. Olea J. Garthus died March 6, 1921 at the age of 80 years, 8 months and 12 days. She was born in Sogndalen, Norway, in June 1820. In 1867 she married Jacob Garthus and in 1906 they came to Glen Bourn, North Dakota, to live with their son. A little later they came to Independence where they lived with their daughter, Mrs. Andy Anderson, for about seven years, later moving to Canada to live with their son, Thurston, where she died. Mrs. Alvin Amundson brought the remains to Independence for burial in the Bethel cemetery. The funeral was held March, Rev. Hofstad officiating. She leaves to mourn her death three daughters and three sons, Thurston, Ole and John of Canada; Mrs. A. Amundson and Mrs. J. Morseth of Minneapolis and Mrs. Andy Anderson of Pigeon. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - MARCH 24, 1921
MRS. ANNE O. GILBERT (LARVILL)
Mrs. Anne O. Gilbert was born at Larvill, Norway, February 12, 1847. At the age of three years she came with her parents to Manitowoc where she grew to woman hood. On January 13, 1866, she was united in marriage to Nels I. Gilbert and to this union ten children were born of which four survive their mother. The Gilbert family lived at Manitowoc for about eight years and then moved to Baldwin, where they made their home for nine years. In 1883, Mr. Gilbert was appointed postmaster of Warner, Brown County, South Dakota, where they lived for ten years. Returning from Dakota, the family spent one year at Plum City after which they moved to Eleva, where Mrs. Gilbert has lived for the past 33 years. Mrs. Gilbert has been in poor health for several years, and about four weeks ago she was taken down with the flu, from which she was unable to recover. She passed away the 5th of April 1927, leaving to mourn her death thee sons, Joe and Emil of Eleva, and Norman of Eau Claire; and one daughter, Emma Gilbert of Eleva. Funeral services were held at the Eleva Lutheran church of which deceased was a charter member, the 7th of April. A quartet consisting of Miss Blodget, Mrs. P. Skulhus and M.M. Nels Fagerland and R. Duxbury gave several vocal selections accompanied by Miss Halvorson at the piano. Rev. Wichmann officiated and Mr. Stand had charge of the funeral in the absence of Mr. Kjentvet. Interment was made at the Eleva cemetery, where Mrs. Gilbert awaits the resurrection morn. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 14, 1927
MRS. BERTHA GILBERTSON (NORWAY)
Mrs. Bertha Gilbertson, 85, died at her home in South Beaver Creek on Thursday morning following a long illness. She was born in Norway, August 6, 1850, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Even Evenson. In 1877 she came to America and in 1882 was united in marriage to Martin Gilbertson. For fifty years she had lived in the South Beaver Creek Valley. Her husband died 20 years ago. She is survived by four sons, Martinus and Gustave on the home farm, Emil and Peter of North Bend, and 11 grandchildren. A son, Bernt, was killed in North Dakota three years ago. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the home and at the South Beaver Creek church, the Rev. Johan Olson officiating. Burial was made in the South Beaver Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 2, 1936
MRS. THOMAS GILBERT (ENEBAK)
Petra Julia Jahr was born in Enebak, Norway July 25, 1853. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church of her native parish. At the age of 17 years she emigrated with her mother, stepfather, two sisters and a brother to America. She worked at and near Trempealeau, Wisconsin a period of three years. She was united in marriage to Thomas J. Gilbert in the month of February 1874. Her husband was a member of the firm of T.I. Gilbert and Co. engaged in the mercantile business at Blair. Later on he bought out the hardware business of the firm and conducted this as a separate business. Mrs. Gilbert was a resident of Blair since her marriage with the exception of short stays with her daughter. It can be said that her home has been on the same spot in the village a period of over sixty years. For when the building was destroyed in the great fire that swept the village, the present building was erected at the same place and the family made their living quarters in the upper story. Only one of the original setters of Blair survives today, Mrs. Marie, widow of T.I. Gilbert. Thomas Gilbert died December 29, 1892. It was Mrs. Gilbert�s lot then to survive her husband almost half a century. Four children had been born to their union, three of whom survive to mourn the loss of a beloved mother: Edward, professor at the State University, Madison; Minnie (Mrs. Henry Hammerly), Cando, North Dakota; and Melvin, Osseo, Wisconsin. A son, Walter, veteran of the World War died May 16, 1926. Mrs. Gilbert had enjoyed good health until her last illness which came upon her at Christmas time. She passed away Tuesday, June 2, 1942 at 10:15 p.m. She lacked less than two months of reaching her 89th birthday. The life of Mrs. Gilbert is closely knit with the history of Blair from the early beginnings to the present. One by one her contemporaries faded from the scene, while she carried on in the drama of life with undimmed spirit and unfailing courage. As a �Last Leaf� upon the tree, she saw the new faces of alien generations appear, some to fade away again, their places taken by those who were stranger still. Of unusual intelligence, her mental faculties were but little dimmed until the last illness. The sorrows that entered her life, she bore in Christian fortitude, the joys that came she accepted as heaven sent. A Christian atmosphere pervaded her home and marked her daily life. Hers was an independent mind and a self reliant spirit. As wife, mother, citizen and member of the church, she has played a very worthy part. Funeral services were held Saturday, June 6 at the Zion Lutheran church, Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. Pallbearers were N.I. Gilbert, Alf Peterson, Iver Johnson, Angus Sather, Helmer Benrud and C.B. Immell. Interment was in the Zion cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 11, 1942
AMUND C. GILBERTSON (FAABERG)
Amund C. Gilbertson, died at his home in Northfield, Monday, September 11, at 10:20 in the forenoon of cancer of the stomach. Ms. Gilbertson was born in Faaberg, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, January 12, 1860. He came to this country in 1877 with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kristen Holen, who settled in Northfield, Jackson county. At the age of 17 years he became crippled from drinking cold water while over-heated in the harvest fields. He then learned the shoemaking trade with John Johnson of Hixton and remained in his employ eleven years. He was married in 1892 to Miss Carrie Martinson of Northfield. To this union eight children were born, seven living, four boys and three girls, Charlie, Bertha, Mina, Albert, Clara, Manda and Oscar. Besides the widow and children, he leaves one brother, John, and three sisters, Sina in Norway, Mrs. Mattie Johnstad of Ashland, this state; and Mrs. Kristena Hanson of Northfield. In the spring of 1894 he bought a lot of Peder Ekern, building a home the following fall. He had been working steadily at the shoemaking trade all these years, and in spite of his crippled condition has amassed a comfortable competence by his careful manner of living and good habits, and leaves a good farm and other property. He was regarded as a good man and, as the saying goes, �was the right man in the right place.� The funeral was held at Pigeon Falls Thursday, September 14, Rev. Christophersen officiating. THE WHITEHALLTIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMBER 21 1916
MRS. ANTOINETTE GILBERTSON (BIRI)
Mrs. Antoinette Gilbertson was born in Biri, Norway, on September 29, 1851, and died May 28, 1933. She came to this country with her parents at the age of 15. She married Even Gilbertson and they settled in the French Creek valley, which place was their home up until his death about twenty years ago. Since that time Mrs. Gilbertson made her home with her daughter Mrs. Ingvald Scarseth, at Centerville, at which place her death occurred. She is survived by six daughters and one son, namely: Mrs. William Sievers; Mrs. T.G. Herried; Mrs. H. Steiner of Galesville; Mrs. I. Scarseth of Centerville; Mrs. G.M. Herried of Ettrick; Mrs. D.E. Camp of Farmersburg, Iowa; and Alfred Gilbertson of Ettrick. She is also survived by two sisters and two brothers, Mrs. J.O. Gilbertson, Ettrick and Beatta, Hans and Julius Nelson of Galesville, together with thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 30, at the home at Centerville and at the French Creek church, conducted by Rev. Reque of Galesville. Mrs. Gilbertson was a devoted mother and a true Christian. Her interests were in her home and early day pioneers of the French Creek valley recall many acts of kindness from Mrs. Gilbertson. She was a tireless worker for the church of her faith, and this did much toward the molding of her home life. Many old time friends of the deceased were in attendance as the last earthly rites for one whom in years gone by had been a true and loyal friend. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - JUNE 2, 1933
GILBERT GILBERTSON (GULBRANSDALEN)
Death claimed Gilbert Gilbertson early day resident of Whitehall at his home in LaCrosse Saturday noon, March 15, at the age of 94 years. The death of Mr. Gilbertson removed the last Civil War veteran in that city. His health had been remarkably good throughout his declining years and he had been up and around his home until his final sickness. Gilbert Gilbertson was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, February 19, 1846 and came to America and to LaCrosse in 1862, coming up the river in a steamboat accompanied by a brother and sister. From there he went to Sparta and from that city drove to Black River Falls with a team of oxen. They settled in the town of Albion, Jackson county. Several yeas after locating there, Mr. Gilbertson carried mail between Black River Falls and Fountain City, and also between Sparta and Prescott receiving $7.50 a month as wages. He served one year in the Civil War with Company H, Fourth Wisconsin Regiment. Upon his return from the war, he went to the northern Wisconsin lumber camps, working first as a logger and then as a foreman. Later he lived in Whitehall and in 1882 he moved to LaCrosse, where he was employed as a salesman until he retired from business about 20 years ago. Mr. Gilbertson was the only Civil War veteran of LaCrosse county to attend the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg held at Gettysburg in 1938. Only one member of Company H, 4th Wisconsin regiment was present out of 1,200 men who comprised this regiment. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. C.P. Thompson of LaCrosse; one son, George T. Gilbertson of Cartersville, Illinois; 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His wife and a son Elmer E. Gilbertson, founder of the Melrose Chronicle, preceded him in death. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 21, 1940
EVEN O. GILBERTSON (BIRI)
Even O. Gilbertson, one of the pioneers of French Creek valley, died at his home here Thursday morning, September 26, 1912. Deceased was born in Biri, Norway, January 6, 1841. In 1857 the Gilbertson family set sail for America. They came directly from the ship to Stevenstown, LaCrosse county, where they lived three years, and then settled in French Creek valley. In 1870 he was married to Mary A. Ofsdahl. Deceased is survived by his wife and eight children, Mrs. Ingvald Scarseth, Mrs. William Sievers, Mrs. T.G. Herreid, Mrs. Albert Sylvester of Galesville, Mrs. Gilbert Herreid of Beaver Creek valley, and Sophia, Stella and Alfred of this place. The funeral was held Saturday afternoon Rev. Bestul officiating. The services were largely attended, including all his neighbors and acquaintances in the French creek valley. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - OCTOBER 10, 1912
MRS. CARRIE GILBERTSON (LANG KAAS, TELEMARK)
Mrs. Carrie Gilbertson was born at Lang Kaas, Telemarken, Norway, on September 27, 1849. She passed away at her home at 1513 Liberty street, LaCrosse, on April 1st, 1931, at the age of 81 years, 6 months and 4 days. She came to this country with her father, sisters and brother in 1861, when she was twelve years of age. The family first settled near Madison, in Dane county. In 1864, they moved to Jackson county, where she lived many years. She was married in the Town of Irving on September 27, 1867 to Gilbert Gilbertson. The husband was engaged in the lumber industry and at the time of their marriage, he was foreman of a logging camp on the East Fork of Black River, which section of the county was then in the midst of one of the best white pine belts in Wisconsin. Both were sturdy and industrious, ambitious of success, and for several winters they worked together in the big pinery camps. Mrs. Gilbertson was foreman and Mrs. Gilbertson in charge of the cooking for large crews of men. They prospered nicely and when the lumber industry went into decline they were prepared to engage in other pursuits. In 1878, Mr. Gilbertson operated the stage line between this city and LaCrosse. Later he operated the Squaw Creek Flouring mills, when custom grinding of wheat was still in vogue. Later they lived ten years in Whitehall and two in Neillsville. They moved to LaCrosse in 1892 which had ever since been her home. She was reared in the Lutheran faith, and she was confirmed at the Lutheran church at Half Way Creek in LaCrosse county. The present church was erected by the pioneers in 1868, which still stands as a monument to its builders. Rev. Frick was the pastor at the time she became a member, before the present edifice was erected. She is survived by her aged husband and two children, George T. Gilbertson of Melrose, and Mrs. C.P. Thompson of LaCrosse. Another son was the late Elmer E. Gilbertson, founder and for many years publisher of The Melrose Chronicle. She also leaves two sisters, Mrs. William Holgren of Albion and Mrs. Ole Gunderson of Springfield. Mrs. Gilbertson was a kindly, motherly lady whose constant thought and care was the comfort of her family circle. A devoted wife and fond mother, she was untiring in her endeavors in their behalf. To those who had known her many years, she had endeared herself by her many neighborly courtesies and accumulations. She enjoyed her usual good health to an advanced age. About two years ago, she commenced to fail and gradually weakened until death released her. The heartfelt sympathy of her many good friends is extended to her sorrowing husband, children, sisters and other relatives. The funeral services were held from the home and at the North LaCrosse Lutheran church, Rev. E.O. Vik officiating. Interment was made at Oak Grove cemetery. REPRINTED FROM THE MELROSE CHRONICLE THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 7, 1931
LOUIS F. GILBERTSON (ULENSAKER)
Louis Ferdinand Gilbertson was born February 3, 1857 at Ulensaker, Norway. His parents were Gulbran Jacobson and Eli Larson who preceded him in death several years ago. At the age of 20 years, he sailed to America and settled near Arcadia. A few years later he married Caroline Hanson. Two children were born to this union, Edwin who died in infancy, and Mrs. C.M. Nelson who is now residing at Ada, Minnesota. Mrs. Caroline Gilbertson died in 1888. Five year later Mr. Gilbertson married Josephine Hanson of Arcadia; to this union nine children were born: Henry at Lewistown, Montana; Elmer at Craig, Montana; Mrs. Glen Duxbury of Spooner, Wisconsin; Earnest of Barron, Wisconsin; Mrs. G. Toraason, of Blair; and George, Raymond, Earl and Ruth who are at home. Mr. Gilbertson died February 3, 1927. The funeral took place on his birthday at the First Lutheran church, Rev. Urberg officiating. Besides the children he leaves a widow to mourn his sudden departure. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 10, 1927
MRS. CHRISTINA GILBERTSON (THORP)
Funeral services for Mrs. Christina Gilbertson, 84, who died at the Community hospital at 3 p.m. September 19 following an illness of five months caused by a stroke, were held Saturday afternoon at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church, the Rev. O.G. Birkeland officiating. Burial was in Lincoln cemetery. Casket bearers were Bennie Lien, Arthur Lien, Oscar Steen, Gunder Solsrud, Emil Torpen and Albert Pederson. Mrs. Gilbertson was born July 1, 1867 at Thorpe, Norway, daughter of Lauritz Christopherson and his wife, Agnes Brovik Christopherson. When she was 16 years old, she came to America with her parents who settled in Bennett valley northeast of Independence. There she resided until her marriage to Gilbert Gilbertson at the age of 20. The couple settled on a farm in Irvin coulee south of Whitehall where they lived until his death on July21, 1943. After Mr. Gilbertson�s death, she moved to Whitehall. Survivors are the four children who had been born to her, Laura, Mrs. Emil Torpen of LaCrosse; Gustav Gilbertson, Irvin coulee; Clara, Mrs. Albert Pederson, Madison; and Albert, Chicago. She also leaves eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and her only sister, Mrs. Mary Bang of Whitehall. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 27, 1951
GILBERT O. GILBERTSON (BRUNKEBERG, TELEMARK)
Gilbert O. Gilbertson was born in Brunkeberg, Kviteseid ovre Telemarken, Norway, April 23, 1825. In 1856 he was married to Miss Thoeil Nerisdatter of the above place. To them were born eight children, of which seven are living, one son dying in Norway, aged 16 years. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbertson came to America 27 years ago accompanied by their youngest children, Emma and Gunder, making their home with their sons, who came to this country some years before, in Bruce valley, then moving to Pleasantville in the Town of Hale, where they resided many years. About four years ago, the took up their residence with their daughter, Mrs. John Lee, where he died May 11, 1914, reaching the age of 89 years and 18 days. He enjoyed unusual good health until three months ago, when he fell on the ice and injured his hip, from which he did not recover and gradually failed till the end came. At the age of 80, still active, he presented each of his children with a souvenir painting, a work of art, as a remembrance. He was a professional painter in Norway, where decorative work and sign painting was much more in vogue than in this country. He was a faithful member of the S.L. church and the remains were laid to rest in the Pleasantville cemetery on the 14th inst., Rev. S. Folkestad of Strum conducting the funeral services. He leaves to mourn his death a wife and seven children, as follows: Mrs. John Lee of Hale; Mrs. John C. Laffin and Mrs. C.L Govgens of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Ole of Strum and Charley, Oluf and Gunder of Hale. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MAY 28, 1914
MRS. GEORGE GILBERTSON (SOGN)
Again we are reminded that life�s journey is of but a few years when we heard of the passing of Mrs. George Gilbertson of Schimmerhorn valley on November 26. It was the end of a worldly career of a devoted wife and mother. Ranveig Christine Gilbertson was born in Indre Sogn, Norway, August 7, 1885, the daughter of Hans and Dorothea Aamodt. At three years of age, she traveled with her parents over the mountains to Solberg, Brandbu, Norway, a distance of 35 Norwegian miles, approximately 250 miles in our measure. Reared in the Lutheran faith, she was baptized and confirmed by Reverend Paulson. In 1908 she came to America and made her home with an uncle and aunt at Bird Island, Minnesota, then went to Madison and made her home with another uncle and aunt, later lived with a sister, Mrs. Otto Enge in Limon, Colorado, and then with a brother in Denver, Colorado. In 1913 she returned to Wisconsin and on September 27 of that year she was united in marriage to George (Sivisind) Gilbertson of Schimmerhorn by the Rev. E.B. Christophersen. They established a home on the Hans Sivisind farm, where they have since resided. In 1914 they made their delayed wedding trip to Norway to visit her relatives and friends as well as to enjoy Norway�s Udstillingsdag or fair, which was held in Kristiania or Oslo at that time. To this union were born two sons, Hans and Ralph at home and one daughter, Dorothy, now Mrs. Halvor Haugen of Eau Claire. Mrs. Gilbertson passed away at her home November 25, 1946, after a lingering illness of several years. Funeral services were held from the home at 1:30 and at the Synod Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls at 2 p.m. on November 29, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating with E.A. Sletteland, funeral director in charge. A favorite song of Mrs. Gilbertson, �The Holy City,� was rendered by Mrs. E.A. Sletteland, accompanied by her daughter Solveig. Flowers were carried by Hazel Fredrickson, Dorothy Klomsten and Mildred Hagenstad. Pallbearers were George Fredrickson, Magnus Isaacson, Palmer Lunde, Eddie Nelson, John Thompson and Oluf Hagen. Interment was in the church cemetery. She leaves to mourn her passing besides her husband, two sons, Hans and Ralph, and one daughter Dorothy. Besides her immediate family she is survived by her brother, Ole Aamodt of Denver, Colorado and a sister Kari, other relatives and friends mourn her passing. The writer cannot refrain from chronicling a few items about the life of the departed, Mrs. George Gilbertson. From her youth she had been well schooled for her life work. She had embraced the Lutheran faith and lived her mature life in devotion and love to her family. It had been her usual custom in the evening to gather her children about her and read passages from the Bible and to teach them the true way of life. She loved her homeland and was very well posted on its history, legends and customs, its royalty, customs of living and dress and could entertain company with interesting talk of her native land. She had learned much of art and was an expert at needlework and her wall rugs and Hardanger work, as well as other fancy works of art, are treasures her children will take pleasure in possessing and displaying to their friends. She was a true friend and neighbor and did much to help others where help was needed and that she was highly esteemed and loved was manifested by the beautiful floral and memorial gifts present at her funeral. She bore her affliction with fortitude, knowing that her family and neighbors were doing all they could to make her sunset of life as pleasant and comfortable as possible. Her great hope and prayer was that she might live to see her son, Ralph, who had been in the service about four and a half years without a furlough. This hope was realized, her prayer had been answered. God Bless her Memory. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 12 1946
CHARLES GILBERTSON (KVITESEID, TELEMARK)
Funeral services for Charles Gilbertson of Pleasantville, who died at the Whitehall Community Hospital April 9, were held at the home and the Pleasantville Lutheran church April 12, the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe officiating. Mrs. Isaac Anderson and daughter, Mrs. Wilfred Silvius sang �In the Sweet By and By� at the home, and �Jesus Pilot Me� and �Jesus Lover of My Soul� were sung at the church by the choir, where Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Rode also rendered a duet, �Safe In the Arms of Jesus.� Interment was in the Pleasantville cemetery beside the parents of the deceased. Pallbearers were five nephews, Oscar, Theodore, Paul and Melvin Gilbertson of Strum and Elmer Gilbertson of Pleasantville and Alfred Gunderson, a cousin, also of that place. Flowers were carried by two nieces, Misses Ragna and Jennie Lee of Bruce Valley, Mrs. Wilfred Silvius of Rice Lake and Miss Gladys Olson of Arcadia, relatives of Mrs. Gilbertson. There were many flowers and memorials from relatives and friends. Mr. Gilbertson was born in Kvitseid, Telemarken, Norway, July 5, 1862. He came to the United States in 1880, settling directly in Trempealeau county, where he remained almost without interruption until the end of his life at the age of 74 years, 9 months and 4 days. In 1899, Mr. Gilbertson was married to Miss Mary Olson of Arcadia, and to them one child was born, Nora, now Mrs. Oswald Froseth, also of the town of Hale. The wife and daughter survive, besides the son-in-law and one grandson, Norman Froseth, and two sisters, Mrs. Emma Goggins, Minneapolis, and Mrs. Lafin of Williams, Minnesota. His parents, a sister and three brothers preceded him in death. Mr. Gilbertson was of the type that is an asset to any community. He was a kind and loving husband and father, a respected and valued neighbor, a man whose morals were of a high standard, and one who had convictions and dared to live up to them. He was active in church work, a faithful attendant at services and a liberal contributor to both local and general work of the church. At this deathbed he confessed his faith in his Lord and Savior and expressed the firm hope that by God�s grace he would be admitted to the mansions above whose builder and maker of God. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 22, 1937
MARTIN GILBERTSON (GJERDRUM)
Martin Gilbertson, one of the old settlers of this community, died at his home in the town of Northfield, Monday morning, August 12, at the age of 76 years, 5 months and 14 days. Mr. Gilbertson was born at Asmyhr in Gjerdrum, Norway, February 25, 1842, where he lived until 13 years of age when his father sold Asmyhr and moved to Sivesind in Toten. Shortly after the mother died laving a family of little children. In 1867 he together with his older brother, Hans, decided to try their fortune in the new world and embarking in an old sailing vessel sailed from Christiania on May 10 and after many privations and experiences finally arrived in New York, July 14. After a short stay in that state they came to Milwaukee and from there obtained work at Black Earth in Dane county. During the years following, he worked at different kinds of labor in various parts of the state, making his home, however, near Black Earth, where his father and the remainder of the family came to make their home. In 1872 he was united in marriage to Dorothea Lunde of Springdale. They lived on a farm near Mount Horeb until 1874 when they moved to Jackson county and bought the land in Schimmerhorn valley where they made their home. They endured the many hardships of pioneer life and Mr. Gilbertson had many an interesting story to tell from those early days. He was an industrious worker and a man of deeply religious nature, a kind husband and father. He was in poor health for about two years and in the fall of 1917 suffered a slight stroke of paralysis. He was very ill for some time after but recovered sufficiently to be up and around. He was taken suddenly ill with hypostatic pneumonia on Friday night and on Monday morning, August 12, at about 4 o�clock he went to his longed for rest. He leaves to mourn his death his wife and ten children: John of the Town of Northfield; Gustav of the home place; Chris with the A.E.F. in France; Adolph of Whitehall; Mrs. Nels Helom of Beloit; Mrs. Jno. Thompson of Northfield; Mrs. E.A.Evenson of Dwight, North Dakota; and the Misses Christine, Mary and Hulda at home. He also leaves a sister, Mrs. Christian Olson of Belview, Minnesota. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - BANNER - AUGUST 22, 1918
GILBERT GILBERTSON (SONDRE LAND)
Gilbert Gilbertson, son of Peter and Syverine Gilbertson, was born in Sondre Land, Norway, March 3, 1857. He came to America with his parents when he was five years old and they settled first in Cedar Valley, Minnesota. After living there for four years, in 1866 the family came to Tamarack valley and settled on the farm now known as the C.P. Gilbertson home. In 1882 Mr. Gilbertson was united in marriage to Adelede Lund who, together with their six children, survive him. He died late in the afternoon on Christmas Day at the age of 80 years, 9 months and 23 days and was buried from the Tamarack Lutheran church, December 29th. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 6, 1938
MRS. JOHN GILBERTSON (BIRI)
Mrs. Mina Gilbertson was born in Biri, Norway, March 14, 1855, the daughter of Borre and Berta Ofsdahl. She, with her parents, came to America at the age of ten years and settled in Abrahams Coulee near Galesville, Wisconsin. Here she lived until her marriage to John Gilbertson of Ettrick township. They lived at Hale, Frenchville and Whitehall, where Mr. Gilbertson was engaged in mercantile business and later moved to their fine farm home at Frenchville. Mr. Gilbertson preceded her in death six years ago. Mrs. Gilbertson passed away at the home of her daughter in Ettrick on April 20, 1939 at the age of 84 years. Three children survive: Celia (Mrs. Alfred Pederson) of Ettrick; Ella (Mrs. Bennie Peterson) of Blair; and Odell Gilbertson of Winona, Minnesota. Also one brother, Julius Ofsdahl of Galesville, Wisconsin. Funeral services were held on Sunday, April 23 at the French Creek church, where she was a faithful member. Rev. Olsen officiated. Mrs. John Hellekson and Miss Nora Tenneson sang two hymns. The body was laid to rest in the French Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 27, 1939
MRS. GABE GILBERTSON (NORDRESFRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Funeral services for Mrs. Gabe Gilbertson, who died Wednesday, February 21, were held at the home and Our Saviour�s Lutheran church Saturday afternoon, the Rev. O. G. Birkeland officiating. The Bible School Choir sang �In Heavenly Love Abiding� at the last rites and a double quartet composed of Mmes. N.S. Simons, S.B. Ivers, B.M. Skogstad and Miss Mabel Larson, Dr. Anton Vold, O.W. Elstad, Wilfred Galstad and H.J. Aleckson sang two Norwegian songs, �Den Store Hvide Flok� and �Hvo veed hvor nar mig er min ende.� The five sons and one son-in-law of Mrs. Gilbertson of Mason City, Iowa; Bennie of Mondovi; Ernest, George and Sidney Gilbertson and H.J. Elstad of Whitehall were pallbearers. Four grandchildren Elaine Eltsad, Beverly and LaVonne Gilbertson and David Gilbertson carried flowers. Burial was in Fagernes cemetery. Mrs. Gilbertson, as Bertha Jackson, was born March 7, 1867, in Nordresfrn, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, and came to Plum Creek, town of Arcadia, when she was two years old. Her marriage to Gabriel Gilbertson took place on November 6, 1898. The family lived on the Plum Creek ridge near Square Bluff until Mr. Gilbertson and his wife retired from farming in 1928 and moved to Whitehall, their son George taking over the home place. For some years, Mrs. Gilbertson had been in failing health with a heart complication but her death came suddenly and peacefully shortly after midnight on February 21st. Had she lived until March 7 this year, she would have been 73 years of age. Deceased is survived by her husband, the five sons named above, one daughter, Mrs. H.J. Elstad of Whitehall, one sister, Mrs. Mark Mason of this village, and five grandchildren. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 29, 1940
OLUF GILBERTSON (KVITESEID?)
Death brought the life of Oluf Gilbertson, prominent farmer of the town of Hale, to a close on Monday morning, January 6, following an illness of only a few days. Mr. Gilbertson had not been in good health for some time previous to his death but members of his family and his many friends did not anticipate that the end was so near. Two days before he passed away from this earth, he realized that he was soon to depart into the hereafter and during those days he spent much of his time in expressing his appreciation and thankfulness for the many acts of kindness which his family bestowed upon him. Oluf Gilbertson was born in Hvidsie, Telemark, Norway, November 28, 1864. At the age of about 17 years, he immigrated to America and settled in Bruce Valley, Trempealeau county. A few years later he moved to Pleasantville, where he has since resided. At the time of Mr. Gilberson�s death, he had reached the age of 65 years, 1 month and 11 days. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, three sisters and two brothers. His parents and two brothers preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at the Pleasantville church Thursday afternoon. Rev. Hjemboe delivered the funeral service. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 16, 1930
GUNDER GILBERTSON (KVITESEID?)
Gunder Gilbertson, prominent farmer of the North Branch of Hale, died at his home Monday afternoon, January 13, just a week following the death of his brother, Oluf Gilbertson. Last fall, Mr. Gilbertson was confined to a hospital suffering with erysipelas. Poor health followed and later pneumonia developed which caused his death. His body was brought to the Rhode undertaking rooms and funeral services will be held in the Hale church Thursday afternoon, Rev. Preus in charge. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 16, 1930
MRS. JOHN GILBERTSON (EVANGER)
God in His infinite wisdom has seen fit to remove from our midst to eternal glory Mrs. John Gilbertson on October 31, 1946, at 12:10 a.m. at the Community Hospital in Whitehall at the age of 58 years, three months and 11 days, where she had been a patient following a major operation on October 15. She was looking forward to returning to her home when she suffered an attack of pulmonary embolism. The family was called immediately but failed to arrive before death ensued. Anna Hjornevik was born July 20, 1888, daughter of Helge Larson Hjornevik and Britha Gullaksdatter in Bolstadoyri, Bergen parish, Norway. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith, a faith she cherished until death came. In the fall of 1908 she came to America with her brother, Gullak, who had been back to Norway for a visit. After arriving in America she came to the Nels Stalheim home in the town of Pigeon, where she spent some time. She was united in marriage on March 15, 1911, to John Gilbertson by the Rev. E.B. Christophersen. To this union, five children were born, Borghild, now Mrs. Palmer Klomsten; Florence, now Mrs. Clarence Lewis; James and Sidney at home. One son, Melvin, passed away March 4, 1932, at the age of 18 years. One of her hobbies in life was the crocheting of bedspreads and other articles and hooked rugs. Mrs. Gilbertson was a faithful member of the S.L. church and died trusting in her Saviour. She leaves to mourn her departure besides her family, three sisters, Bertha, Mrs. George F. Smith of Chicago, Helena and Thorina in Norway; four brothers, Gullak Hjornevik, known as Gus, of Minneapolis; Helge Hjornevik of Taylor; Nels and Lars in Norway; and an aunt, Mrs. Lars Bolstad, in Hixton. Funeral services were conducted at the home in Schimmerhorn at 1 p.m. and at the S.L. church in Pigeon Falls at 2 o�clock November 4, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. Rev. Christophersen sang, �Jeg ved mig en Sovn I Jesu navn� at the home and �Den store hvide Fok vi se� at the church. The congregation sang �Abide With Me.� Pallbearers were John Thompson, Einar Bolstad, Palmer Lunde, Magnus Isaacson, George Fredrickson and Oluf Hagen. The flowers were carried by two nieces, Beatrice Hjornevik and Dorothy Thompson, Ann Lunde and Hazel Fredrickson. Beautiful sprays and a basket of flowers were given by the family, brothers and sisters. Memorials were given by relatives and friends for various charities and missions, amounted to $129.50. Lunch was served by neighbor women to the relatives and friends who gathered at the Gilbertson home following the funeral services. Blessed be her memory. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 14, 1946
JOHN GILBERTSON (RINGERIKE)
Funeral services were conducted last Friday, November 17 in the North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church in memory of the congregation�s oldest member, John Gilbertson, who passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 1939 at the home of his daughter, Betsey, Mrs. Thomas Dick in Silver Creek. A family devotion was held at the Dick home preliminary to the church services. John Gilbertson, formerly Johannes Gulbrandson, was born February 14, 1852 in Eastern Modorn near Ringerike, Norway to Gulbrand Olson, a husmand on the gaard Dignes and his wife, Helle Dorothea Trulsdatter. John was baptized in infancy and later in youth confirmed, both in the Heggens church, by the sainted pastor of that church, the Rev. Stang. In 1876 John married Georgine Hanson. To this union two children were born, a boy dying in infancy and a daughter, Anna, now surviving in Norway. Georgine, however, died in 1879. On December 1880 he was again married this time to Dorothea Kopperud, a young widow from Drammen. This couple walked together in happiness for 58 years, first for a short while in Norway, then in 1881 they joined the stream of Norwegian builders of the west. They came to LaCrosse in July and he found work there at which he was occupied for two years, then they spent a year in Iowa. In 1885 they purchased the home in Upper Franklin where they dwelt together for 53 years, raising a family and watching them find their place in the world and becoming gray in their own turn. Old and full of years, Mrs. Gilbertson bid her loved ones farewell last winter after 58 years of marriage with John. He followed her this fall. The last rites were conducted by the pastor, the Reverend Konrad Urberg whose ministry has broken the Bread of Life for the Gilbertsons these last 46 years. Mr. Gilbertson is survived by the following children: John of Franklin; Mrs. Amanda Killilea of LaCrosse; Mrs. Betsy Dick of Galesville; Mrs. Julia Schliegel of Irving; Mrs. Johanna Bratberg of Onalaska and Arthur of Portland, Oregon. Thus is written �finis� in the history of another couple of those hardy pioneers who came to these parts and gave unto us this wonderful western Wisconsin as we now have it. We shall no forget them or their labors on our behalf. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 14, 1939
GILBERT GILBERTSON (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Gilbert Gilbertson passed away at his home at Blair Wednesday afternoon, November 2, 1932 at the age of 67 years, 7 months. He had been a sufferer of heart trouble for years and though the services of eminent specialists were obtained, they found for him no permanent relief from his ailment although sudden death was not expected. Gilbert Gilbertson was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, March 14, 1865. At the age of 4 years he came to America with his parents, Amund and Sina Gilbertson. His boyhood days were spent in Big Slough and he was confirmed in Trempealeau church. By careful planning and hard labor, Mr. Gilbertson with the faithful assistance of his wife and children developed one of the best farms in Trempealeau Valley. Through his high character and honest dealing, he won the respect and confidence of a large acquaintance. He was a cheerful man, friendly and sociable towards everybody and ever ready to be accommodating. May 14, 1897, he was united in marriage to Tillie Moe of Newcomb Valley. A family of eight children were born to this union, one son dying in infancy. In the spring of 1916 the Gilbertson family moved from Northfield to the present farm home which is situated west of Blair. He is survived by his wife and seven children: Selma of Duluth; Mrs. W.R. Graves and Goldie of Chicago; Palmer, Hensel and Goodwin at home; Albert, living in Newcomb Valley and two grandchildren and three brothers; Chris Gilbertson, Sever and Arndt of Big Slough, three sisters, who preceded him in death, Cecil, Sofia, Maria and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, November 5 from the home west of Blair at 1:00 and from the First Lutheran church at 1:30 o�clock by Rev. Urberg. Further services were held at the Synod Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls at 3:00 o�clock conducted by Rev. Orke. Interment was made at Pigeon Falls cemetery. Pallbearers were Albert and Edwin Engebretson, Oscar and Henry Moe and Otis and Melvin Moe. Flower girls were Alma Gilbertson, Agnes Gilbertson, Clara Hagen and Myrtle Moe. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 10, 1932
OLE J. GILBOE (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Ole J. Gilboe, pioneer farmer of South Beaver Creek, passed away at his home Saturday evening May 19 after suffering for the past four years from a bad heart. The deceased was born Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, December 30, 1855 and came to this country with his parents when 14 years of age. The family settled at Coon Prairie in 1875,Mr.Gilboe homesteaded the farm which he owned up to the time of his death. August 8, 1885 he was united in marriage to Elesa Flugstad. Two children were born to this union both living to mourn the loss of a kind and thoughtful father. The children are: Mrs. Louis Anderson, living in South Beaver Creek and Julius Oscar living at home. The deceased was one of the persons that when once associated with, you would have a true, loyal and thoughtful friend. He had a very sunny disposition and a kind word for everyone. His ambitions were for the welfare of his family. He was a devoted Lutheran and during his short stay one earth, his tireless efforts for the upbuilding of the South Beaver Creek church will be cherished by his many friends as a reminder of his faithfulness. Besides leaving a widow and his two children to mourn his loss, he also leaves four sisters and three brothers, Mrs. Charlie Klinkenberg, Taylor; Mrs. Clara Hussa, North Dakota; Mrs. Alex Komprud, Melrose; Mrs. Anton Ravnum of Glasgow; Louise of Galeville; Otto of Glasgow and George of Melrose. Funeral services were held Wednesday forenoon at which a large number of relatives and friends gathered to pay their last respects to the departed one. After a well chosen sermon by Rev. Bestul, the remains were gently laid to rest in the South Beaver Creek cemetery. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - MAY 25, 1923
MRS. OLE GILBOE (FAABERG)
Mrs. Elisde Gilboe Flugstad was born May 15, 1852 in Faaberg, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway. In 1882, she came to America and three years later on the eighth of August she was united in marriage to Ole Gilboe, who preceded her in death May 19, 1923. She was a staunch member of the Lutheran church, and was an active member of the South Beaver Creek congregation. Two children, Mrs. L.M. Anderson and Julius, both living in South Beaver Creek, mourn the loss of a kind and thoughtful mother. Besides her two children, she also leaves four living grandchildren; son sister, Mrs. Oline Evenson of Pigeon Falls; three brothers, Otto and Mat Flugstad of Pigeon Falls and Ole of North Bend. The deceased passed away February 10, 1926 at her South Beaver Creek home. Her health had been impaired for the past several years, although the past four weeks she was confined to her bed. Funeral services were held Saturday, at which time a large number of friends and relatives gathered to pay their last earthly respects to the passing of another pioneer. Rev. Bestul conducted the last rites and interment was made in the South Beaver Creek cemetery. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - FEBRUARY 19, 1926
OLE GINNEY (NESS, HEDMARK)
Ole O. Grinney passed away Sunday, December 5, at 9:30 a.m. at this home in Osseo at the age of 84 years, nine months and 25 days. He was born February 10, 1853 at Ness Hedmarken, Norway. His parents were Ole Erickson Nerlien and Ranghild Olson. He lived in Norway until he was 26 years of age, was married to Augusta Nilson November 1, 1878, and came to America in the year 1879. He owned a farm in the town of Unity. Their home was blessed by the birth of five children. In the fall of 1917 he sold the farm and moved to Osseo, where he lived until his death. For a long time pervious to his death he had been in failing health, yet seldom complained of his affliction and bore patiently the burden. In the spirit of resignation he bowed to a higher will, realizing that it was only a short time before he would be called upon to say farewell to all who were near and dear to him. A kindly disposed neighbor, a loving father and devoted husband, he had gained the love and esteem of all who knew him. He will be greatly missed in the community in which he spent so many years of his life and by his large circle of associates and friends. During his years in this community he held many positions of trust in religious and political affairs. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 23, 1937
HELMER L. GILBERTSON
Helmer L. Gilbertson, 48, Editor and publisher of the Melrose Chronicle, passed away at the Wisconsin General Hospital in Madison, Thursday, December 22, 1955 at 9:30 a.m. He was taken to the hospital Sunday, December 11, following a heart attack at his home. He seemed to respond to treatment, the first week, but on Monday his heart became weaker and he passed away on Tuesday morning. Helmer Gilbertson was born June 10, 1907, the oldest son of the late Editor Elmer E and Elizabeth Gilbertson of Melrose. When a small boy of 9 years, he started assisting his father in the Chronicle office, and also printing a small weekly paper of his own. His father passed away in May of 1924 and Helmer took over the editorship of the Chronicle when he was a Senior in high school. He operated the business very efficiently until the time of his death. He was united in marriage to Florence Lewison September 1, 1932 and the couple lived in the village since that time. Mrs. Gilbertson has assisted in his work at the Chronicle office. He has been very active in civic affairs since he was 21 years of age He was elected a trustee of the village of Melrose in 1934 and served in that capacity for six years. Mr. Gilbertson was elected mayor of the village in 1944 and very capably served this post until his death. He has been a member of the Melrose Fire Department for 26 years and has been secretary of the organization for the past ten years. He was a great sportsman and had made numerous trips into British Columbia, Canada and the western states, besides hunting and fishing in Northern Wisconsin. He loved the out of doors and was most happy to be on these trips with his friends. He was never too busy to listen to the trouble of old and young in the vicinity who came to him for his advice. He will be sadly missed by business associated, friends and family. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge at Black River Falls, the Consistory at Eau Claire, the Zor Shrine at Madison and the IOOF Lodge at Melrose. Surviving him are his wife Florence, two brothers, Culver and Stanton Gilbertson, Melrose; three sisters, (Norma) Mrs. Wayne Fabian; (Delores) Mrs. Wilson Cassel of Melrose; (Josephine) Mrs. John Everhart of Pennington, New Jersey; 11 nieces, 7 nephews and 2 great-nephews. Masonic services were held Tuesday, December 27, 1955 at 2:00 p.m. at the Melrose Methodist church with Rev. A.E. Attwood, local pastor, and Rev. T. Parry Jones of Sheboygan officiating. The song service was rendered by Mrs. Charles Brown and Mrs. Roger Hardie. Selections were �The Lord�s Prayer� and �The Old Rugged Cross.� David Attwood was the organist. Pallbearers were Thomas Hogg, Oliver O�Hearn, Charles Lutz, Jacob Rienks, Howard Hemmy and C.A. Rydberg. Serving as flower girls were Misses Shelby Timm, Janet Pischke, Mary Anderson and Jane Anderson. Interment was in the Melrose Cemetery. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
ALFRED E. GILBERTSON (TOWNSHIP OF ETTRICK, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY)
Alfred E. Gilbertson, an enterprising and successful farmer of Ettrick Township, comes of one of the pioneer families of this township, of which he is a native, having been born here May 11, 1873. His parents were Even and Antoinette Marie (Ofsdahl) Gilbertson, natives of Norway, who were married in Wisconsin, the father being a son of Ole and Oline Gilbertson. Even was born in 1843 and when a boy of 13 or 14, his parents emigrated with their family to the United States. The voyage, made in a slow sailing vessel, was long and tedious, but the shores of America were sighted at last and a landing effected. Making no stay in any eastern city or state, Ole Gilbertson and his family pushed on for the Northwest, which he heard was now the land of opportunity for newcomers. He came to halt at Stevenstown, LaCrosse County, but seems not to have stayed there long, as soon after we find him homesteading 160 acres of land on French Creek, Ettrick Township, this county, and beginning its cultivation with an ox team. There were at that time but few settlers in the county, he being one of the original pioneers. As such he and his family had many hardships to endure and much hard work to perform, developed a good farm and became one of the prominent and respected citizens of his township, aiding in the building of a church and taking a leading part in other public affairs. He and his good wife have long since passed to their final reward. Even Gilbertson spent most of his boyhood days in assisting his father, when he was not attending school. In early manhood, he started in for himself, buying a tract of 160 acres, and another of 80 acres, this land being situated in section 20-24-13, Ettrick Township. It was all wild land and there was not even a road in the vicinity, so that his task was to carve a farm out of the primitive wilderness. His first house was a shanty, 16 by 24 feet, and 12 feet high, and with this beginning he set to work, his labors being hard and strenuous and lasting many years. He was made of the right stuff to succeed, however, and gradually, the wild appearance of this land changed its aspect for one of cultivation, the old primitive shanty giving place to a dwelling more suggestive of domestic comfort. Barns and outbuildings, too, appeared, and increased in size with successive enlargements, or the erection of new buildings, while similar changes went on in the neighborhood with the advent of new settlers, until the community presented a civilized and flourishing appearance. On this farm Even presided to the end of his life, dying at the age of 72 years in 1912. He held a leading place among his fellow townsmen, was chairman of the township board for many years and served as assessor eight years, being well informed as to the value of all real property in the township. In politics he was a staunch Republican. A Lutheran in religious faith, he and his family helped to start the church of that denomination on French Creek, he being one of its officials, acting as trustee, foreman and collector of funds. He also aided in the building of the school and served as its clerk and treasurer. Among other enterprises which he took an active part in starting were the creamery and mill at Frenchville and the insurance company. In short, for a number of years there were few important enterprises started in the vicinity in which he was not interested in one way or another. The insurance company he served as clerk for 20 years, and he also became a stockholder in the telephone company. During his active career he developed two farms, starting with straw sheds, which he later replaced with wooden buildings, hauling the lumber from the old mill at Alma, Buffalo County. He kept good stock, favoring Durham cattle and Shropshire sheep and his horses were also of excellent quality. His wife Antoinette was a worthy helpmate to him, and to her he owned much of his success, which he always readily acknowledged. She was about 12 years younger than himself and is still living, being now 65 years old. Their eight children also are living; namely: Lena, Bertie, Ida, Laura, Sophie, Stella, Emma and Alfred E. Alfred E. Gilbertson was reared to manhood on the old homestead and acquired his education in the district school. In course of time, as his father became advanced in years, he took over the management of the farm, which he has since operated successfully. For the past three years he has been a trustee of the Lutheran Church, but has held no town office. Mr. Gilbertson married Oriana Hegge, of LaCrosse, November 8, 1902, daughter of J.O. and Carrie (Olson) Hegge. He and his wife are the parents of one child, Mildred. On his farm are some fine pine trees, which were set out by his grandfather, Ole, at a very early date, while others were planted by his father, Even, 50 years ago. The development of this place from the original wilderness to its present flourishing conditions, with its highly cultivated land, neat and substantial buildings and modern equipment is typical of the great changes that have taken place in the county since the pioneer settlers first appeared upon the scene with their ox carts and homemade appliances some 50 or 60 years ago. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
JOHN O. GILBERTSON (BIRI, NORWAY)
John O. Gilbertson, who is successfully engaged in farming in section 33, Gale Township, was born in Lewis Valley, LaCrosse County, January 17, 1859, son of Ole and Olena (Larson) Gilbertson. His parents were born in Biried, Norway, the father December 22, 1818, the mother in 1825. They were married in their native land and came to the United States in 1856, locating in Lewis Valley, LaCrosse County. Ole Gilbertson, who was a farmer by occupation, soon afterwards bought land but in 1860 he moved with his family to French Creek in Ettrick Township, Trempealeau County. Here he was engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in 1898. His wife died August 9, 1888. He was a prominent man and held office at various times, being school clerk for many years. John O. Gilbertson was the youngest in a family of four children. He attended school in his boyhood at French Creek and afterwards the Galesville High School. Residing on the parental homestead until 22 years of age, he then became a land-owner, buying a farm in Ettrick Township, which he operated for five years. He then engaged in mercantile business at Hale and later in Whitehall, being thus occupied for six years. At the end of that time he concluded to go back to farming, and accordingly purchased his present property at Frenchville, Gale Township, which consists of 80 acres of improved land, the improvements having been chiefly made by himself. These include his neat and comfortable residence, erected in 1910, and barns and other necessary buildings in 1905, the house being thoroughly modern in its appointments. Mr. Gilbertson devotes his whole time to his farm and is doing a prosperous business in his line. He is an independent Republican in politics and a member of the Lutheran Synod Church. October 22, 1879, John O. Gilbertson was united in marriage with Mina Helen Nelson, who was born in Biried, Norway, daughter of Borre and Bertha (Haslie) Nelson, natives of the same place. The parents were married in Norway, where the father was born July 29, 1821. They came to America in 1867, locating in Abrahams Valley, Gale Township, where he engaged in farming, his occupation in the old country. He died April 28, 1898. His wife survived him nearly ten years, passing away in February 1908. Their daughter, Mina Helen, was the third born in a family of six children, and was educated in Trempealeau County. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbertson have three children: Odell, a mail clerk in the employ of the Northwestern Railway, residing in Winona, who married Ida Thompson of that city; Ella Josephine, who is a teacher residing at home; and Celia Berenice, also resident at home, who has been a teacher for eight years, being now in her third year in the Frenchville school. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
REV. LARS M. GIMMESTAD (NORDFJORD, BERGENHUS, AMT., NORWAY)
Rev. Lars M. Gimmestad, pastor of the Norwegian Lutheran Synod Church in Galesville and also president of Gale College, was born in Nordfjord, Bergenhus Amt., the west central province of Norway, January 20, 1868. He is a son of Mons M. and Anna (Vasenden) Gimmestad, both of whom were natives of the same province. The father, a stone mason and carpenter by trade, died in Norway in 1878, and his widow subsequently came to the United States, settling with her family of five sons in Redwood County, Minnesota, where she died in 1907. Lars M. Gimmestad, who was the youngest member of the family, acquired his elementary education partly in Norway and partly in Redwood County, Minnesota. By the time he was 14 years of age he was practically earning his own living, which he did by herding cattle and later working on a farm for an older brother. In the meanwhile he entered Luther College at Decorah, Iowa, which he attended for seven years, continuing to work on the farm during his vacations. After graduating from this institution, he entered Luther Seminary at Minneapolis, where he studies theology for three years, during this period teaching parochial school and assisting other pastors. He was ordained July 22, 1894 in Eau Claire and for one year subsequently was in charge of a congregation there. From that time until the fall of 1901 he had charge of congregations in Dane, Columbia and Trempealeau counties, becoming pastor of the church at Galesville. In the year last mentioned he took up his residence in Galesville in order to become president of Gale College, which at that time was transferred to Lutheran hands. This office he has since held, devoting most of his time to it, though still remaining pastor of the Lutheran congregation here, thus making twenty-three years of continuous service. Much of his life has been devoted to teaching, and he has administered the affairs of the college in an efficient manner, maintaining a high scholastic standard and a Christian atmosphere conducive to the moral and spiritual growth of the students. Politically he is an independent Democrat. Mr. Gimmestad was married July 22, 1896 to Amalie Anderson, who was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, daughter of Hans and Oline (Hanson) Anderson. Her parents, who were natives of Norway, came to America about 1873, locating first in Dane County. A few years later they removed to Eau Claire where Mr. Anderson was employed in a shoe factory, and where he subsequently died. His widow is still residing in that city. Mr. and Mrs. Gimmestad are the parents of six children: Marie Helen, Agnes Olava, Herman, Laura Matilda, Bernard Oscar and Victor Edward. Mr. Gimmestad owns his own residence and also a number of acres of land in the vicinity of Galesville. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
OLE GILBERTSON (TELEMARKEN, NORWAY)
Ole Gilbertson, proprietor of a 240 acre farm in section 22, Unity Township, and also of 188 acres in section 28, the same township, was born in Telemarken, Norway, October 8, 1860, his father being Gilbertson Olson and his mother, before marriage, Thorild Nilson. Gilbert Olson was born in Norway in 1825 and passed the greater part of his life in his native land, coming to this country in 1898 when he as about 73 years old. He and his wife resided in Bruce Valley for six years the removed to Hale Township, where Mr. Olson died in the spring of 1914. His wife now lives with her daughter, Mrs. John Lee, of Hale Township. Ole Gilbertson was a young man 20 years old when he came to the United States in 1880. He located in Arcadia, this county, and for about a year worked in the pineries and on farms. Then for six years he was engaged in farming in Bruce Valley, afterwards farming a place near Pleasanton one year. The next 20 years were spent by him on a farm in section 28, United Township and at the end of that time he bought his present farm in section 22, moving onto it in the spring of 1914. This farm has good buildings, the house being a two-story frame structure with basement and containing 12 rooms, lighted with gasoline and furnished with hot water heat and running water. The barn measures 48 by 105 by 16 feet above stone basement and there are two solid cement silos, each 15 by 36 feet. Mr. Gilbertson is conducting a successful farming business and has already attained a considerable degree of prosperity. His present farm was purchased from Samuel R. Anderson and is a fine property. He is also a stockholder in the First State Bank of Strum. In June 1890, Mr. Gilbertson was married to Tina Christopherson, who was born on the farm he owns in section 28, Unity Township, July 8, 1870, daughter of Paul and Anna (Olson) Christopherson, a memoir of whom may be found elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbertson have seven children: Paul, Oscar, Theodore, Amanda, Melvin, Joseph and Ida, all residing at home. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
AMUND GARTHUS (VALDERS, NORWAY) (2)
Amund Garthus is one of the leading citizens of Independence, has had been intimately associated with its business, political and social life for nearly 40 years. In building up a successful business he has assisted in the general development of the village, but the work by which he will be longest remembered is his civic service. The municipal improvements of the village have been his especial hobby, and he has given much of his spare time and all of his influence, to bring some of these improvements about. For no less than 17 years he was president of the village council, and for 15 years he served on the school board, a long record of public work worthily and efficiently performed. He was born in Valders, Norway, October 4, 1852, son of Harold and Karen (Rustebakke) Garthus. He was reared to manhood in the old country, and in 1880 set out for the United States. September 14 of that year he reached Independence, where he obtained work as clerk in a store and was thus occupied for about nine months. He then entered into partnership with Henry Hanson and bought the store of O.P. Larson, which they conducted for two years and a half under the style of Hanson & Garthus. Subsequently Mr. Garthus conducted the business alone until 1884, when the store was destroyed by fire. In the fall of 1885 he started another store with J.A. Johanssen and was associated with him until the spring of 1889, at which time he bought the entire business and has since operated it alone. He has built up a good patronage and is doing a successful business. In 1901 he rebuilt the store, now having a two-room brick building, two stories and basement, measuring 42 by 70 feet. He and his family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church, he having been secretary of the Independence congregation for many years. Mr. Garthus was married August 13, 1887 to Susanna Torgerson, of Vernon County, Wisconsin, who was born in that county December 9, 1864. Mr. and Mrs. Garthus have had six children: Harold O., born May 23, 1888, who is manager of his father�s store; Samuel C., who died in 1907 at the age of 17 years; Lillian T., born September 18, 1894; and Adam S., born November 25, 1897, who are employed in the store, and Arthur W., who died in infancy. Harold Garthus, father of Amund Garthus, was born February 6, 1802 and died October 12, 1880. He was married November 12, 1836 to Karen Rustebakke, who was born September 2, 1819 and died October 15, 1891. Ole Forgerson, father of Mrs. Garthus, was born and reared in Norway, came to America in 1850, settled in Dane County, this state, moved to Vernon County in 1852, and there devoted his life to farming, dying at Independence in the spring of 1901, at the age of 86 years, his good wife, Sigri Midtveit, dying in 1896 at the age of 77 years. SOURCE - HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
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