Thorbus Martha Mrs.
Thoreson Karen Martia
Thorpe Carl
Thorp Karelius Christianson
Thorsgaard Henry
Thorson Marthinus
Thorstad Mathia Marie Mrs.
Thorson Thor Mrs.
Thunold M.O. Mrs.
Thurston Elmer Mrs.
Tidquist Yohan Albin
Tidquist Gunda Mrs.
Tjerstad Jens Mrs. (see Tjorstad below)
Tjoflat Amund G.
Tjoflat Amund G. 2
Tjorstad Jens
Tjorstad Ole
Tofte A.D. Hanson
Tofte Ole
Tofte Ole F. Mrs.
Tollefson John
Tollefson William E.
Tomten Tonette
Tomter John L.
Tomter Ole
Toppen John
Toraason Albert
Toraason Agnetta Mrs.
Toraason Goodwin DDS
Toraason Lynn
Toraason Lynn Mrs.
Toraason Oscar
Toraason Peder O.
Toraason Peder O. Mrs.
Toraason Raymond
Toraason Tena
Toraason Torvald
ALBERT TORAASON:
"Albert Toraason, 76, did at his home in Tappen Coulee Saturday afternoon after an illness of two years.
He was born in Tappen Coulee February 23, 1884, the son of Agnette and Torvald Toraason and was baptized in the Blair congregation and confirmed at Zion Lutheran church.
On June 27, 1929 he married Ruth Dahl. He spent his entire life in the Blair area, working as a farmer, mason and laborer.
He is survived by his wife; one daughter, Odile, R.N. at the Veteran's Administration hospital, Downey, Ill.; one son, Gale, member of the faculty at West Junior high school, Duluth, Minn; four sisters, Mrs. Camelia Odegaard and Mrs. Minnie Olson, Blair, Mrs. Otelia Hoganson, Seattle, Wash. and Mrs. Paula Hendrickson, Tacoma, Wash.; three brothers, Oscar, Thomas and Lynn, Blair. A son, Albert Jr., died in infancy.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, March 12, 1960, at Zion Lutheran church, the Rev. E. E. Olson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Pall bearers were Tony Anderson, Sebert Austad, Elmer Anderson, Omar Austad, Joseph Dahl and Albert Austad. Mrs A. J.Sather and Mrs. F.W. Herreid sang 'Softly and Tenderly, Jesus is Calling' and 'Now the Day is Over.'" probably BLAIR PRESS
MRS. ELMER THURSTON: (SWEDEN)
"Funeral services were held Satruday for Mrs. Elmer Thurston, 62, who passed away Wednesday morning at the Community hospital, Whitehall, after an illllness of several months.
Services were held at the farm home, one mile east of Blair at 1:15 and at the Trempealeau Valley church at 2 o'clock. Her pastor, Rev. B.J. Hatlem officiated at both services. Mr. and Mrs. Hatlem sang "Saved by Grace" at the house and Mrs. Carl Johnson snag "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Beneath the Cross of Jesus" and Mrs. Hatlem sang "In the Garden" at the church. Burial was in the church cemetery. Many memorial gifts were given by relatives, neighbors and friends to the local congreation and to the work of the Kingdom.
The pall bearers were Milan Elland, Ole Storley, Hans Melby, Thomas Toraason, George Knutson and Fred Anderegg. The following carried flowers: Myrtle Knutson, LaVonne Hoganson, Jean Skogstad, Etheleen and Anne Thurston.
Mrs. Elmer Thurston was born Ella Johanna Tormoen in Sweden September 17, 1881. Her parents were Martha and Erick Tormoen. At the age of seven she came with her parents to America where they settled at Minneapolis, Minn. After residing there a year they moved to Trempealeau Valley, where she lived with her parents until her marriage to Elmer Thurston June 22, 1898.
To this union were born ten children of whom nine are living, one child, Marlene Rosella, died in infancy.
Survivors are her husband and nine children, namely Mrs. Clifford (Esther) Skogsad, Blair; Truman, Vancouver, Washington; Mrs. Lawrence (Hazel) Hoganson, Blair; Ellsworth, Taylor; Mrs. Grace Nelson, Minnneaplis; Mrs. Stanley (Lilllian O Kirkpatrick, Chino,Calif; Sgt. Eugene, stationed in England; Mrs. Harry (Doris ) Brostrom,Milwaukee, and Donald at home. Other survivers are a brother, Carl, Thief River Falls, Minnesota, one sister Mrs. Carrie Melberg who has been residing at the Thurston home and eleven grandchildren. Truman and Eugene were unable to be home for the funeral." THE BLAIR PRESS - November 4, 1943
WILLIAM E. TOLLEFSON (JACKSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. on Friday, August 2, 1963 for William E. Tollefson, 64 of Route 4, Black River Falls, Wisconsin. The service was from the Evangelical Lutheran church with the Rev. Robert Salveson officiating. Mrs. Robert Pratt was the soloist and Mrs. Bert Engebretson the organist. The pallbearers were Gaylord Tollefson, Walter Tollefson, Tilman Tollefson, Orvis Ronning and Donald Ronning. Interment was made in the Woodlawn Cemetery at Taylor. The Jensen Funeral Home was in charge of the funeral arrangements. William E. Tollefson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Tollefson, was born in the Town of Franklin, Jackson County, Wisconsin, October 7, 1898. His mother�s maiden name was Emma Larson. He had been baptized into the Lutheran faith in 1898. In his adult years he engaged in wood cutting and logging and had been a resident of Black River Falls for fifteen years. His passing occurred at the Krohn Hospital on July 31, and it followed a brief illness. Mr. Tollefson will be remembered as being a loving husband and father. He is survived by his wife, the former Eunice Nelson; four daughters, - Elnora, Mrs. Glen Goss, of Mondovi; Wilma, Mrs. Marls Peterson, Black River Falls; Vern, Mrs. John McLorn, Gardena, California; and Lois, Mrs. Lavern Larson, Osseo, Wisconsin; one son, Julian Tollefson of Eveleth, Minnesota; two brothers, John E. Tollefson of Black River Falls and Theodore Tollefson of Melrose; and one sister, Mrs. Oscar Ronning of Melrose. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
MRS. AGNETTA TORAASON (HOF, SOLOR, NORWAY)
Funeral services for Mrs. Agnetta Toraason were conducted at the home and at the Zion Lutheran church by Rev. T.E. Sweger Thursday afternoon, December 26th, 1936. Pallbearers were six grandsons, Lyman Toraason, Lawrence Hoganson Victor and Ralph Olson and Otto and Paul Odegaard. Flower bearers were four granddaughters, Lennice and Arlo Toraason, Arvella Odegaard and Mercedes Olson. Two memory wreaths, one from friends and neighbors and one from the grandchildren were given to the Home for the Aged at Stoughton. A granddaughter, Mrs. Melvin Matson sang �The Old Rugged Cross� at the funeral; William Dahl sang �Jeg ved mig en sovn I Jesu Navn,� and the choir from Beaver Creek also sang a selection. Interment was made in the Zion Cemetery beside her husband who passed away April 7th, 1926. Mrs. Toraason was 83 years, 5 months and 1 day at the time of her death which took place Monday, December 23 at 2 p.m. after a few days illness. The cause of death was the weakness of old age following a slight stroke. ` Agnetta Toraason was born in Hoff, Solor, Norway July 13th, 1852. She was the daughter of Arne and Olea Knutson Austad. Her parents followed the tide of that emigration which brought almost half the population of Norway to America and in 1869 landed with their three children in Blair where so many from that district bordering on the boundary of Sweden had come and were to come to form the large Solung settlement. A brother and sister had died in infancy in Norway. On October 6th, 1876, she was united in marriage to Torvald Toraason, a marriage which lacked but a few months of half a century when it was severed by her husband�s death in 1926. Shortly after their marriage they settled on the farm which became her home until the end of her days. Here she endured the hardships and privations of the pioneers, put in many days of strenuous labor, saw a family grow up about her, soon to leave the home next and then in the quiet of life�s evening, there was given time for reflection and to chart the last journey with most of her loved ones near at hand to comfort and help. The following children are left to mourn the loss of a kind and loving mother: Mrs. Ole H. Olson (Minnie), Mrs. Otelia Hoganson and Oscar Toraason of Blair; Mrs. O.K. Hendrickson (Paula) of Alderwood Manor, Washington; Mrs. O.T. Odegaard (Camilla) of Reynolds Coulee; Thomas on the farm adjoining the home place and Lynn and Albert on the home farm. A brother, B.A. Austad of Tappen Coulee, 25 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive. Two brothers preceded her in death, Tom Anderson, July 19th, 1917 and Arnt Austad, June 15th, 1935. All the children were present at the funeral with the exception of Mrs. Hendrickson. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 2, 1936 Researching this family is Cindi Anderson
LYNN TORAASON (TOWN OF PRESTON; WISCONSIN)
Funeral services were conducted on Wednesday, March 29, 1972, at Zion Lutheran Church for Lynn Toraason, 78, who passed away at Lutheran Hospital, LaCrosse, on Sunday, March 26, 1972, following an extended illness. The Rev. M.J. Larsen officiated and burial was in the church cemetery. Lynn Mendolph Toraason was born on December 31, 1893 to Thorvold and Agnetta Austad Toraason in the Town of Preston. He grew to manhood in the Town of Preston and on December 21, 1916 he was united in marriage to Annette Strand at Winona, Minnesota. They farmed near Blair all their married life. Toraason has been a resident of Grand View Home for the past year. His wife preceded him in death. Survivors include two sons, Lyman and Richard of Blair; three daughters, Mrs. Norman (Lennice) Thompson, rural Blair; Mrs. Ruth Reeves, LaCrosse; and Mrs. Eldon (Donna) Friede, Blair; one brother, Thomas of rural Blair; one sister, Mrs. Paula Hendrickson, Seattle, Washington; 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Morris Wangen, Paul Fredrickson, Lloyd Anderson, Norman Anderson, Floyd Bradley and Henry Knutson. Frederixon-Jack Funeral Home in Blair had charge of arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAPBOOK Researching this family is Cindi Anderson
MRS. LYNN TORAASON (ETTRICK TOWNSHIP; WISCONSIN)
Mrs. Lynn Toraason, 58, died early Thursday, December 8, in her home in the Town of Preston after a long illness. She became ill last July and after seeking medical and surgical care did not regain her health. Anette (Nettie) Otilda Strand was born December 21, 1896 in Ettrick Township, a daughter of the late Peter Strand and Louise Leque Strand. She was the oldest of four children. She was baptized and confirmed in the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church by the Rev. Ole Gulbrandson. She was married December 21, 1916 to Lynn Toraason who survives her and the couple since their marriage have resided on the Toraason farm in the Town of Preston. Other survivors are two sons, Lyman and Richard, Blair; three daughters, Mrs. Norman (Lennice) Thompson, Blair; Mrs. Ruth Reeves, Blair who has been caring for her mother at home and Mrs. Eldon Friede, Whitehall; two sisters, Mrs. John Hellekson and Mrs. Goodwin Nelson, both of Blair; a brother, Palmer Strand, Milwaukee, and nine grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Zion Lutheran church Saturday at 2 p.m., the Rev. E.E. Olson officiating. Pallbearers were six nephews, Otto Odegaard, Paul Hellekson, David Strand, Gale Toraason, Thomas Toraason Jr. and Robert Burt. Mrs. A.J. Sather and Mrs. F.W. Herreid sang �My God and I� and �The Lord is My Shepherd,� with Mrs. Lawrence Holven at the organ. Burial was in the church cemetery. Gibson-Frederixon Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAPBOOK
OSCAR TORAASON (PRESTON TOWNSHIP; BLAIR, WISCONSIN)
Oscar Toraason, 77, lifelong resident of Blair and surrounding area, died Saturday afternoon, April 16, 1960, at a Madison hospital where he had been a patient for two weeks. He had been in failing health since suffering a stroke about five years ago. He was born July 24, 1882 in Preston Township, the son of the late Torvald and Agnette Toraason. On October 6, 1908 he married Anna Oftedahl and the couple made their home in Blair. Toraason was a carpenter until his health started to fail. He is survived by his wife; one son, Raymond, Longview, Washington; two brothers, Thomas and Lynn, Blair; four sisters, Mrs. Minnie Olson and Mrs. Camella Odegaard, Blair; Mrs. Otelia Hoganson, Seattle, Washington, and Mrs. Paula Hendrickson, Tacoma, Washington; one grandchild and one great-grandchild. A brother, Albert, died last month. Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 19, 1960, at 1 p.m. at Zion Lutheran church, the Rev. E.E. Olson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
RAYMOND TORAASON (BLAIR, WISCONSIN)
Raymond T. Toraason, 77, of 120 Lexington Ave., Kelso, WA, died Wednesday, February 4, 1987, in the local hospice. He was born April 22, 1909, in Blair, Wisconsin to Oscar and Anna Toraason, and moved to Washington in 1929. ` Mr. Toraason was a lumber grader with Weyerhaeuser, retiring in 1973. He was a former world record-holder of the high hurdles and a former professional baseball player He was a member of the IWA Local 536, the Weyerhaeuser Co. Retirees Organizations, and the Longview Eagles. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; a daughter, Fern Grody of Kent, WA; three step-daughters, Velma West of Longview, WA; Wanda Russell of Moses Lake, WA; and Alice Winchester of Mossyrock, WA; three stepsons, Robert Workman of Mossyrock, WA; Aaron Workman of Silver Creek, WA; and Jim Workman of Grahman, WA; one grandson; 21 step-grandchildren; 41 step-great-grandchildren and one step-great-great-grandson. Private family services have been held. Final disposition will be at Green Hills Memorial Gardens in Kelso. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice. Columbia Funeral Service was in charge of arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAPBOOK Researching this family is Cindi Anderson
TENA TORAASON (RURAL BLAIR, WISCONSIN)
Tena R. Toraason, 95, died Thursday, April 14, 1988, in Tri-County Memorial Hospital, Whitehall, Wisconsin. She had been a resident of Grand View Care Center in Blair since July 1986. Tena was born August 1, 1892, to Nels Olson Tormoen and Inger (Haakonson) Tormoen on a farm near Blair, and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Trempealeau Valley Church, Taylor, Wisconsin. On June 30, 1915, she married Thomas A. Toraason in Winona, Minnesota, and their entire married life was spent farming in the Blair area. Thomas died on March 28, 1977. Tena was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Blair, and was an active member of the Women of the Church organizations in Zion. She was a regular participant and exhibitor at the festivals in Blair and the Trempealeau County Homemakers; and a correspondent for the Blair Press for many years. Survivors are one son, Thomas Toraason of Whitehall; two daughters, Joan Warner of LaCrosse and Mrs. Robert (Arlo) Petersburg of Blair; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and nine older brothers. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 18, 1988 at Zion Lutheran Church, Blair, with Rev. Ray Reinholtzen officiating. Burial was in the Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Casket bearers were Nickolai Tormoen, Goerge Tormoen, Jerome Tormoen, Lyman Toraason, Richard Toraason and Todd Toraason. Jack Funeral Home, Blair, was in charge of the arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
MRS. M. O. THUNOLD (HARDANGER)
In the death of Mrs. M.O. Thunold of Beaver Creek, the county loses one of its oldest settlers, she with her husband having lived in Joe Coulee since 1876. Her Christian character was ever an inspiration to her friends and in her passing, the community suffers a loss that will rest long in memory. Mrs. M.O. Thunold was born June 21, 1848 in Hardanger, Norway. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. James Quammen. They immigrated to this country and first settled in Dane County in 1857. She came to Beaver Creek in 1876. On March 28, 1877, she married Mat Thunold. She died August 30, 1924 at her home in Beaver Creek. She was sister of Louis Quammen of Beaver Creek and an aunt of Albert Quammen of Blair. Funeral services were held Monday at Beaver Creek church in charge of Rev. S.S. Urberg. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 4, 1924
MRS. MATHIA MARIE THORSTAD (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Mathia Marie Thorstad was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, the 26th day of October, 1839. She came to America 54 years ago, settled first in LaCrosse, then moved to Ettrick and later to Blair which was her home until nine years ago when her husband, J.E. Thorstad died. The home was then broken up and she went to Duluth where she had two sons, Edward and Anton, and made her home with the latter for several years. For the last three years, she has lived with her daughter, Martha, in Minneapolis. The family was blessed with eight children, three sons and five daughters, of whom five, one son and four daughters have passed into eternity before their mother. Two sons, Edward and Anton of Duluth, Minnesota and one daughter, Mrs. A.A. Ohrn of Minneapolis, Minnesota; 22 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren mourn the loss of their beloved. Funeral services were held in Blair Tuesday, January 16 at the U.N. Lutheran church and the body was interred in the U.N Lutheran cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 18, 1923
MRS. MARTHA THORBUS (RINGSAKER)
Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the Zion Lutheran church for Mrs. Martha Thorbus who passed away at her home Thursday forenoon (August 15, 1946). Rev. Luther S. Borgen, pastor of the church officiated and burial was in the church cemetery. Martha Nelson Thorbus was born in Ringsaker near Lillehammer, Norway, June 3, 1856. She was baptized and confirmed in her native parish. She came to the United State when she was 18 years of age and joined her brother, Nels Nelson and uncle, John Thorstad and family at Ettrick where they had settled a few years previously. In the year 1880 she was united in marriage to Alfred Thorbus and the young couple settled in Blair which place remained her home until her death. Mrs. Thorbus was the last member of a large family. Her husband passed away in 1923 and four of their five children, Clara, Mrs. T.N. Halvorson; Minnie, Elmer and Alexander preceded their mother in death, leaving Alice to mourn the loss of a kind and loving mother. She also leaves the grandsons, Newman Halvorson of Birmingham, Michigan and Earl Halvorson of Madison, five great-grandchildren and a host of friends. Last Thursday morning, August 15, though apparently in her usual health, she passed away very suddenly, having reached the age of 90 years, 2 months and 12 days. Always a lover of flowers, Mrs. Thorbus� garden was her hobby and the loving care she gave her flowers was returned in abundant blooms which she distributed to her many friends. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 22, 1946
KAREN MARTIA THORESON (NANSTAD)
Karen Martia Thoreson was born at Nanstad, Prestejeld, Norway, September 9, 1887, and died at the Community Hospital in Whitehall March 5, 1931, at the age of 43 years, five months and 23 days. Karen�s parents were Ole Thoreson and Lena Mikkelson. She was baptized October 14, 1887. When she was five years of age, she came to America with her parents, and the family settled in the North Branch of Hale but after three years moved to Johnson Valley where they have since resided. She was confirmed on September 18, 1904 by Rev. Toft at Strum, Wisconsin. She leaves to mourn her death her father, Ole Thoreson; three brothers, Martin, Hans and Edwin at home; and four sisters, Anna, Mrs. Odin Nelson; Hilda, Mrs. Theodore Gullicksrud; Selma, Mrs. Oliver Stomprud; and Louise, Mrs. Arthur Kensmoe, all of the Strum vicinity. Her mother preceded her in death on November 3, 1927. One sister also died March 10, 1897. Funeral services were held at the West Beef River church at Strum Saturday, March 7, the Rev. Halvorsen officiating. Pallbearers were Julian Johnson, Roy Engen, Eddie Anderson, Torval Torgerson and Sever and Alfred Flaaten. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 12, 1931
CARL THORPE (AASNES, SOLAR)
Carl Thorp had not been well the last two years. He sought relief at Madison and in Black River Falls but his life departed on Monday, July 12, 1943, while under treatment at the Krohn clinic in Black River Falls. Carl Thorpe, a son of Carelius Thorp and Johanna Johnson Hasselengen, was born October 5, 1892 in Aasnes, Solar, Norway. He was baptized in the Aasnes church, and lived in that territory during the first ten years of his life. In 1901 the family emigrated to America, staying at Necedah, Wisconsin the first year, and in 1902 moving to Plum Creek. In 1904 they purchased a farm in Welch Coulee where he lived until 1941 when he moved to Taylor. He was confirmed in the Independence Lutheran church in 1906 by Rev. H.J Rasmussen. On May 26, 1917 he was united in marriage with Ellen Melby, the Rev. C.B.Bestul performing the marriage ceremony. He is survived by his wife and two sons together with the brothers, Karsten, Juel and Alf of Madison and the sisters, Mrs. Christina Kilen of Rolete, North Dakota; and Mrs. Agnes Maughan of Boise, Idaho. Funeral services were conducted on Friday, July 16 from the Gibson Funeral home in Taylor and the Fagernes church with the Rev. Konrad Urberg officiating. Rev. Urberg sang �Den store hvide flok� and Mrs. Urberg sang �Now rest beneath night�s shadows.� Interment was in the family burial lot just north of the sacristy. Deep sympathy is felt to the widow who now resides in Blair alone awaiting the return of her only children, her two sons, who are serving in the U.S. Army. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 22, 1943
MARTHINUS THORSON (BIRI)
Marthinus Thorson, son of Toger and Regina Thorson, was born May 14, 1872 in Biri, Norway. At the age of four years, his mother, three sisters and two brothers left Norway for America where the father had gone the year before to make a home for his family. They came to the Johannes Thorson farm where they remained until their home on the 80 acres adjoining was completed. At the age of 15 years, Marthinus accompanied his father to the woods near Neillsville and did the work of an adult, receiving $12 a month. They walked to Merrillan in the fall on their way to the woods and walked home in the spring. For nine years in succession, he worked in this way. Then he went to North Dakota and did farm labor for about two years. He returned home in 1899 and began working with Hans Yndestad to learn the carpenter trade. Later he started for himself, hiring his own crew. He has constructed buildings on most of the farms in this community. After his father�s death in 1911, he took over the farm duties. Two years after the death of his mother in 1916, he sold the farm. In 1920 he bought 10 acres of land from Oluf Neperud and built his own home. Here he lived the remainder of his life and followed the carpenter trade. He shared his home with his sister, Mrs. Martha Olson and family, who tenderly cared for him during his failing health. Of a family of ten children, two sisters survive him, Olive, Mrs. Martin Olson, and Louise, Mrs. Melvin Thorpen of Osseo. He was preceded in death by Ludvig of Canada, Christian of Osseo, Theodore of Harshaw, Thorwald of Eau Claire, Tonette, Mrs. John Tomten, Mathia, Mrs. Ole Fredrickson and Oline, Mrs. G.H. Neperud of the Pigeon community. His death marked the close of a busy and useful career. He was of a quiet nature, had a sunny disposition and was known for his industry and honesty. He had been in failing health for some time and died December 3, 1952, at the age of 80 years after being hospitalized for three days. Funeral services were held December 5 at the United Lutheran church in Pigeon Falls at 2 p.m., the Rev. S.L. Almlie officiating. The songs rendered were �Nearer My God to Thee� and �I Know of a Sleep in Jesus� Name.� Mrs. E.A. Sletteland sang �Den Store Hvide Flok Vi Se� with Mrs. Sverre Aasen as accompanist. The pallbearers were nephews Harry and Roy Thorpen, Roy Neperud, Robert Tomten, Palmer Larson and Henry Paulson. Flowers were carried by Mrs. Henry Paulson and Mrs. Roy Thorson. Interment was in the U.L. Cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 18, 1952
MRS. THOR THORSON (SOLAR)
Mrs. Thor Thorson, nee Karen Everson, long a resident with her husband and family of Moe Coulee, passed away in death, February 5, 1934. She was born in Solar, Norway, May 27, 1863. With her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Halvor Everson, she came as an 18 year old girl to America in the year 1881. Three years later on December 5, she became the wife of Thor Thorson of Moe Coulee, Rev. Em. Christophersen being the officiating pastor. A happy and contented home with a large family became the monument and distinction of their married life. Of a modest and retiring nature, Mrs. Thorson found her chief object and purpose in life to faithfully and diligently care for the physical and spiritual well-being of the large household of which she was the head and for which she constantly gave of her kind and loving heart unstinted amounts of self-sacrificing service. Mrs. Thorson was in poor health in December and January, but she was not taken seriously ill until a short time before her demise when she contracted the flu which developed into pneumonia. In appreciation of her loving kindness throughout the years of her life, he family administered tender care, and now when she is gone her immediate survivors rise up and call her blessed. She is survived by her husband and nine children, Mrs. Andrew Semb, Mrs. B.A. Lokken, Henry, Mrs. Edwin Tomter, Mrs. Oswald Fremstad, Theodore, Elmer, Olger and Knute. One daughter, Tildah, died in infancy and one son, Norman, preceded her in death. She is also survived by 23 grandchildren and two brothers, Julius and Tom Everson. Her weary earthly frame was committed to its last resting place February 9, the funeral being from the Synod Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls with Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. Undertaker E.A. Sletteland was in charge of arrangements. The last rites were attended by a large number of people and numerous memorial gifts were given in honor of her memory. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 22, 1934
KARELIUS CHRISTIANSON THORP (AASNES, SOLAR)
Karelius Christianson Thorp was born in Aasnes, Solar, Norway, June 4, 1842, where he spent his childhood days. In 1874 he married Johanne Hohaneson, and to this union were born nine children, five boys and four girls. They emigrated to this country in 1903, settling on a farm in Preston, where he resided up to the time of his death, May 15, 1916, aged 73 years, 11 months and 8 days. He is survived by a wife and seven children as follows: Karsten, Juel, Carl and Alf Bang of Preston, Mrs. Agnes Manghod of Preston, Idaho; Mrs. Charley Kilen of Rolette, North Dakota; and Mrs. Emil Gulikson of Homesville, this state. The funeral services were held at the Fagernes church on Wednesday of last week, Rev. C.B. Bestul officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - MAY 25, 1916
OLE TJORSTAD (NORDFJORD)
Ole Tjorstad passed away at his home in Washington Coulee Monday morning, February 14, 1944 after a lingering illness at the age of 78 years, nine months and 24 days. He was born in Nordfjord, Norway April 15, 1865. His parents were Jacob and Martha Tjorstad. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith in his home congregation by Pastor Bugge. He emigrated to America in 1886. He was employed on various farms in the Beaver Creek Valley, ten of the years on the farm of the late Lars Grinde. The past 30 years he has made his home with his brother, Jens Tjorstad who died October 2, 1938. He was cared for in his last illness by his sister-in-law, Mrs. Elisa Tjorstad. The physical weakness attendant upon his advanced age left him little power of resistance to an attack of influenza and heart trouble. Besides his brother Jens, a brother Rasmus and a sister, Mrs. Lena Anderson of Chippewa Falls preceded his death. Left to mourn his passing are four nephews, Jacob of Franklin; Julius of Hegg; Martin of Taylor and Lewis of Melrose; a niece, Anna (Mrs. Connie Ystenes) of Blair and a sister-in-law, Mrs. Elisa Tjorstad of Franklin. The funeral rites were held Friday, February 18 2:30 p.m. at the Washington Coulee home and 3:30 p.m. at the North Beaver Creek church, Rev. T.E. Sweger officiating. Mrs. Keith Hardie sang at the church �Behold a Host Arrayed in White.� The pallbearers were Francis Peterson, Harvey Twesme, John Vinge, Cornelius Davis, Axel Hanson and Theodore B. Johnson. Interment was in the church cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 24, 1944
YOHAN ALBIN TIDQUIST (SONDRE LAND)
Yohan Albin Tidquist, 76, died at his home Thursday, following a long illness. He was born in Sondreland, Norway, December 22, 1859, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Johan Tidquist. He came to America in 1880, settling in the Upper French Creek Valley where he was occupied with farming. He was united in marriage to Gunda Gulbrandson. He is survived by his wife, four sons, Edward of Akron, Ohio; Andrew of Winnipeg, Canada; George and Melvin of French Creek; three daughters, Mrs. Nick Schneider of Milwaukee; Gertie who teaches in Kingston, New York; and Myrtle, registered nurse of Buffalo, New York and 20 grandchildren. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the home in Upper French Creek with the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. Burial was made in the French Creek cemetery. Pallbearers were Tobias Husmoen, Ole Mustad, Iver Jorgenson, Benjamin Mustad, Helmer Tolokken and Melvin Tolokken. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 13, 1936
MRS. GUNDA TIDQUIST (SONDRELAND)
Funeral services were held on Tuesday for Mrs. Gunda Gulbrandson Tidquist, 79, who was found dead in bed Friday morning, May 15, 1943, at her home in Upper French Creek. Services were held at the home and at French Creek Lutheran church with Rev. Oscar Rem of Galesville officiating and burial was in French Creek cemetery. She was born in Sondreland, Norway December 22, 1863. At the age of 17, she came to America and was united in marriage to John Tidquist. The couple settled on a farm in the Upper French Creek Valley. Mr. Tidquist died August 6, 1936. Survivors include three sons, Andrew of Winnipeg, Canada; and George and Melvin of French Creek; three daughters, Mrs. Irve Smith of Kingston, New York; Mrs. Nick Schneider of Milwaukee and Myrtle, registered nurse of Brooklyn, New York and 20 grandchildren. A son, Edward, died two years ago. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 20, 1943
JENS TJORSTAD (NORDFJORD)
Jens Karolius Tjorstad passed away at his home in the Town of Franklin after a lingering illness on Sunday morning, October 2, 1938 at the age of 84 years, 7 months and 14 days. He was born in Nordfjord, Norway February 17, 1854. His parents were Jacob and Martha Tjorstad. He was baptized and confirmed in his home congregation in Nordfjord by Rev. Bugge. He emigrated to America in the year 1880. That same year he was united in marriage to Elise Sjorlo, who was also from his native Nordfjord. They were engaged with the occupation of farming. Mr. Tjorstad also found time to pursue the trade of carpenter. Five children were born to this union: Jacob of Franklin; Julius, Hegg; Martin, Taylor; and Lewis of Melrose; and one child died in infancy. His wife died March 4, 1902. He was united in marriage to Elisa Bjorlo of Nordfjord, Norway January 12, 1905. To this union one daughter was born, Anna, Mrs. Cornelius Ystenes of Blair. She is survived by a sister and brother besides his wife and children. A sister Mrs. Lena Anderson, lives in Chippewa Falls and a brother, Ole, resides on the home farm. There are 9 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Of gentle manners and kindly heart, Mr. Tjorstad had a large place in the affections of his fellow men. He was a good neighbor, an upright citizen, a devoted husband and father, a loyal member of his church. A weary pilgrim has reached his journey�s end but his memory will ever linger on. Funeral services were conducted on Wednesday October 5th from his home in Washington Coulee at 1 p.m. and from his church, the North Beaver Creek at 2 p.m. by Rev. T.E. Sweger. The pallbearers were John Vinje, Ed. Roseland, Ed Twesme, Levi Henderson, John Ricoldson and Lewis Torkelson. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 6, 1938
MRS. JENS TJERSTAD (NORDFJORD)
Mrs. Jens Tjerstad, 89, died at Tri-County Memorial hospital, Whitehall, January 12, 1966 at 9:30 p.m. She had lived at the nursing home in connection with the hospital for a year and previous to that, in other rest homes. Funeral services were held Saturday at 1 p.m. at Faith Lutheran church, the Rev. L.H. Jacobson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. The former Elsia Bjorlo, she was born September 21, 1876 in Nordfjord, Norway, to Nels and Anne Bjorlo. She came to this country in 1904 and was married in September of that year. Survivors are one daughter, Mrs. Cornelius (Anna) Ystenes, Blair; one step-son, Jake, Black River Falls; two grandsons, Richard and David Ystenes of Blair; four great-grandchildren and two nephews, Alf Bjorlo, Brooklyn, New York and Nicholai, Sweden. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 20, 1966
OLE TOFTE (S. FROEN)
Ole Tofte, an old pioneer of Trempealeau County, died at his home Friday evening, April 20, 1917, following but a day�s illness. He arose at the usual hour in the morning, but at about eight o�clock he complained of a headache. He was assisted to his bed, but gradually grew worse and passed away that evening. Mr. Tofte was born at Southern Froen Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, and came to this country with his parents in the year 1868 and settled in the Town of Lincoln, moving later to Pigeon. In 1881 he was married to Inga M. Johnson. To this union were born seven children: Helmer, who passed away two years ago, Mrs. Oscar Gabriel of Blair, Oscar, Joseph, Hilman, Ludwig and Mabel at home, all of the survivors being at his beside when he died. The funeral was held Monday from the Synod Lutheran church and the remains were laid to rest at the Old Whitehall cemetery, Rev. E. Christophersen officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - APRIL 26, 1917
MRS. OLE F. TOFTE (N. LAND)
Funeral services for Mrs. Ole H. Tofte, Gold Star Mother, were held at the home and at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church Friday, October 14, the Rev. O. G. Birkeland officiating. Burial was in Old Whitehall cemetery besides the remains of her husband and three children that have gone before. A group of women from the Senior Choir sang �Rock of Ages� and two Norwegian hymns, �Bedre Kan Jeg Ikke Fare� and �Jeg Ved Sovn in Jesu Navn� at the church. Pallbearers were Will Mahlum, August Ringstad, Even and Andrew Finstad, Matt and Ole Hallingstad and flowers were carried by Mrs. Ole Hallingstad and Mrs. Lewis Hanson. Mrs. Tofte died at her home in Whitehall Wednesday, October 12. On the previous Sunday she had fallen on the linoleum in her bedroom and fractured her right hip, which, together with heart trouble, caused her death at the age of 83 years. She was born February 4, 1856 in Nordre Land, Norway, daughter of Johannes and Helena Arneson. She came to America at the age of 24 years and two years later, she was united in marriage with Ole Tofte. The young couple settled on a farm in Fly Creek. To this union five sons and two daughters were born, of whom the following four children survive: Joseph and Mabel, Mrs. Gabriel, at home; Hilman Toft, Bonners Ferry, Idaho; and Ludwig, San Francisco, California. There are also 20 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Three of Mrs. Tofte�s sons enlisted in the U.S. Army during the World War. One of them, Oscar, died in service. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 27, 1938
A.D. HANSON TOFTE (S. FROEN, GULBRANDSDALEN)
A.D. Hanson Tofte, a well known and respected citizen of the community in which he lived, died at his home in Pigeon at 2 a.m. the 19th of February of hemorrhage of the stomach. He was born in Froen Sondre, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, July 29, 1843. He emigrated to this country in the spring of 1864, he was married to Oline Sinrud and settled on a farm in Fitch Coulee, which after several years he sold to Elias Borreson, and bought a farm two miles west of Whitehall, where he removed with his family and resided for several years. To this union twelve children were born, of which eight are dead, those surviving being Elvin M. of Chinook, Montana; Peter M. of Prince Albert, Sask., Canada; Louise O. of Whitehall and Henry M. of Coral City. His first wife preceded him in death December 28, 1895. He sold the place near Whitehall and in 1898, he purchased the Warren Cumming�s farm in Pigeon where he died. In 1900 he was again married to Anna Boalrud, who with three sons, Bennie, Olger and Arthur, survive him. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MARCH 11, 1915
AMUND G. TJOFLAT (HARDANGER)
This community was shocked Wednesday morning upon hearing of the death of Amund G. Tjoflat. He passed away Tuesday, January 27. The past several years, Mr. Tjoflat had been in failing health and on October 12, last year, he entered the Mt. Washington sanitorium at Eau Claire. The report we learned from time to time was that he was improving slowly, but surely. Members of the family were felt well pleased over the results of the treatments he was obtaining and expected him to return home early this spring. The deceased was born at Hardanger, Bergen Strift, Norway, January 30,1870. His early life was spent in his native land, and at the age of 21 years he set sail for America. He first located in Jackson county. On June 2, 1898 he was united in marriage to Eleanore Torkelson. Immediately after his marriage he moved to this village and has been a carpenter by trade and had many monuments to his credit which distinguished him as a builder. Six children were born to bless this union all of whom together with his wife remain to mourn the loss o a kind husband and father. The children are Begilote, at home; Gerald, Pittsburg, PA; Oliver, St. Louis, Misouri; Viola, Howard and Kenneth at home. His mother passed away in Norway in 1929. Besides his family here, he also leaves a brother at Fairland, Minnesota and three sisters in Norway. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon. Rev. K.M. Urberg will conduct the services. Services will be held in the Lutheran church at 1:30 p.m. after which the body will be taken to North Beaver Creek for burial. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - JANUARY 30, 1931
TONETTE TOMTEN (BIRI)
Tonetta (Thorson) Tomten was born January 27, 1864 in Biri, Norway, the daughter of Roger and Regine Thorson, and passed away March 16, 1947 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Henry Paulson, in the Town of Pigeon. Death came from a heart attack, an ailment of which for many years she had been a sufferer. She was baptized into the Lutheran faith in Norway and at the age of 12 she, with her father, mother, brothers and sisters emigrated to America and settled on a homestead near Pigeon Falls. She renewed her baptismal covenant in the Synod Lutheran church of Pigeon Falls, the late E.M. Christophersen officiating. On October 31, 1885, she was joined in marriage to John N. Tomten, to which union was born two daughters, Mrs. Malcom (Louise) Haugen of Osseo and Mrs. Henry (Nora) Paulson of Pigeon Falls. Funeral services were conducted March 20, the Rev. C.K. Malmin officiating. Funeral Director E.A. Sletteland was in charge of arrangements. At the home a prayer service was held and a song in Norwegian, �Tank Naar Engang Samles Skal� was sung by Mrs. E.A. Sletteland. The regular service was held at the U.L. church in Pigeon Falls. The congregation sang �Let Me Be Thine Forever� and �Abide With Me,� with Mrs. Sletteland singing �In the Golden� and �Den Store Hvide Flok.� Flowers were carried by her granddaughter, Viola Haugen and three granddaughters-in-law, Mmes. Glenn Haugen, John and Theron Paulson. Pallbearers were three grandsons, John and Theron Paulson and Glen Haugen, two nephews, Roy Thorson of Osseo and Roy Neperud of Neillsville and one great-nephew, Robert Tomten, Jr. She was preceded in death by her husband April 22, 1913. Survivors are her two daughters, Louise and Nora; three sisters, Mrs. Oline Neperud of Timber Creek; Mrs. Louise Thorpen of Osseo and Mrs. Martin (Olava) Olson; one brother, Martin of York; four grandchildren and one great-grandson. Interment was in the church cemetery. The subject of this sketch having been a lifelong friend and neighbor of our family, I wish to pay tribute to her memory. In the pioneering days of this section, each family had to go through many hardships, and it became necessary that the children go out to earn not only a living for themselves but to help sustain the younger ones at home. So it was with Tonetta. It was not as now that the education of the child should come first, but she must go out among other people and work for a living. At a very young age she became a nurse-girl at our home, and later with the desire to better her condition and prepare herself for her future, she went to the cities and found employment. Experience became her teacher both in education and the art of homemaking, and when she married, she was well fitted for the role of wife and mother. The home she occupied is evidence of her domestic skills. She and her husband were industrious and thirsty and in the time they were permitted to live and work together they accumulated a nice competence. The death of her husband might have changed her ability to go forward, but this was not so with her, she was a good manager and continued her farming with an efficiency that brought continued prosperity. From time to time she improved her property, and the spacious home is a monument to her life. When the older girl married and moved to her home near Osseo, she was left with Nora to carry on, and at her marriage to Henry Paulson, her work was eased by the young couple taking over the management. Nora became her constant companion and nurse. In this home were reared her two girls, two grandsons, John and Theron Paulson, and a great-grandson, Wayne Leslie Paulson. During the past two years, four generations have lived in the home she built. In her later years she found much interest in fancy work and rug-making, in reading, flower culture, and in the livestock and work about the place. Her mind was keen but her sight had dimmed of late so it was not so easy to pass the time. She had been a faithful member of the Lutheran Ladies Aid and of the Homemakers club and enjoyed mingling with people. She will be greatly missed by a host of friends and relatives who by their floral and memorial gifts paid a last tribute to her, but most of all by Baby Wayne who is wondering about Granny, as he called her, as he goes over to the couch where he used to see her. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 10, 1947
PEDER O. TORAASON (VAALER, SOLAR)
Peder O. Toraason as born in Solar, Norway March 17, 1837. He came to this country about 1867 and was married in 1870 to Karen Lovberg. He has always lived here in Blair on the same farm where he died. When he was young he was an active church member and was one of the organizers of the old Conference Lutheran Church in Blair that used to stand on the site where Rev. Urberg�s church now stands. He was an earnest believer in Christ and his chief concern was his soul�s salvation. Twelve children have been born, nine of whom are living. Two died as infants and the oldest daughter died in December 1923. He thought and spoke often of his soon having to follow where his daughter went. He was a deep thinker and honest in all his dealings, and an extremely kind father to all his children. He seemed in good health until about a week before he died. His ailment was not considered serious until the last day. His family had hoped he would live to be 100 years old and tried to take good care of him to keep him well. He will be missed by his family. The familiar place near the stove where he used to sit and read is now vacant. Besides the aged widow, the following children are left to mourn his departure: Lena Toraason Harvey at home; Ole Toraason, Chicago; Minnie, Mrs. H.A. Lober, Minneapolis; Palmer and Claus Toraason on the home farm; Dr. Goodwin Toraason, Blair; Dr. Clifford Toraason, Owen, Wisconsin; Stella Toraason teaching in Minneapolis; and Dr. Hiram Toraason, Spring Valley, Illinois. May the God of comfort be their solace in sorrow. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 5, 1925
MRS. PEDER O. TORAASON (GRUE, SOLAR)
Karen Lovberg was born in Solar, Norway, March 19, 1854. She came to this country in 1868 and was united in marriage to the late Peter O. Toraason in 1870. She has always resided in Blair on the same farm where she died. When she was young, she was an active church member and was one of the organizers of the Ladies Aid of the old Conference Lutheran organization which later on was merged into the present Zion Lutheran church. She was an earnest follower of Christ and her chief concern was the salvation of the souls of herself and of each member of her family. She was a firm believer in prayer and her children will never forget the prayers their mother taught them. In her last feeble days, she was faithfully praying for her Saviour to soon come and take her away. She was the mother of 12 children, nine of whom are living. Two died in infancy and the oldest daughter died in 1923. Her husband passed away in 192l. Grief undermined her health and she gradually became weaker until the Lord called her away on Sunday morning, October 20, 1929. She was a most kind and faithful mother and the more dependent she became, the more their affection for her increased and she will be sorely missed by all. The following children are left to mourn her departure: Lena Toraason Harvey, at home; Ole Toraason, Blair; Mrs. Minnie Lober, Minneapolis; Palmer and Claus Toraason on the home farm; Dr. Goodwin Toraason, Blair; Dr. Clifford Toraason, Owen; Stella Toraason, teaching in Minneapolis and Dr. Hiram Toraason, Spring Grove, Illinois. Funeral services were held at the Zion Lutheran Church of which she had been a member so many years Tuesday, October 22, 1929, the Rev. Sweger and Urberg officiating at the last sad rites. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 24, 1929
TORVALD TORAASON (VAALER, SOLAR)
Torvald Toraason was born in Vaaler, Solar, Norway on March 7, 1847, and died on April 7, 1926, thus attaining the ripe old age of 79 years and one month. He emigrated to America in the year 1873, and for three years resided at the home of his brother, Peterson Toraason, in the Village of Blair. On October 6, 1876, he was united in marriage to Miss Agnette Austad, and the same year bought and settled on a farm near Blair, on which place he resided until death. This union was blessed with eight children namely: Minnie (Mrs. O.H. Olson), Mrs. Otelia Hoganson, and Oscar, all of Blair; Paula (Mrs. F.A. George), of Manor, Washington; Camillia (Mrs. O.T. Odegaard), of Hixton; Thomas, residing on an adjoining farm; and Albert and Lynn living on the home farm. Left to mourn his passing besides his widow and children are 20 grandchildren and one brother, Karl, of Norway. Two sisters and four brothers preceded him in death. Mr. Toraason worshipped at the Zion Lutheran church of Blair, of which he was a faithful member. He was an honest and upright man of sterling qualities and was loved by all who knew him. He was a kind, loving husband and father, and much devoted to his family and home. His sudden departure is keenly felt, and he will be sadly missed in the home circle. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 15, 1926
JOHN TOPPEN (BIRI)
John Toppen, a resident of this vicinity for the last 60 years, died at his home here Monday at 7 p.m. after an illness of over a year. He would have been 71 years old in September. Mr. Toppen came to the United States at the age of six years with his parents from Biri, Norway, where he was born September 16, 1860. He settled on a farm in Hardies Creek near here in his youth, married Olava Waller 42 years ago, and settled there until six years ago when he retired and moved to Galesville. He is survived by his wife and four children, Casper, on the farm in Hardies Creek; Herman at Galesville; Mrs. Alvin Ekern of Hardies Creek; and Mrs. John Wilhelm of Onalaska. Two sisters, Mrs. Hans Semb, of Galesville, and Mrs. Lena Klenzie of LaCrosse; one brother, Alex Toppen of Galesville; and nine grandchildren also survive. The funeral was held Wednesday at 12:30 at the home of his brother in Galesville, and at 2 p.m. at Hardies Creek Lutheran church with the Rev. L.S. J. Reque officiating. Burial will be at Hardies Creek. Mr. Toppen was an uncle of Henry, Melvin, Elmer, Alfred and Oscar Waller of Taylor. Reprinted from The Republican-Herald. THE TAYLOR HERALD - APRIL 3, 1931
JOHN TOLLEFSON (BIRI)
John Tollefson was born on the 12th of September 1873 at Biri, Norway. In 1879 he immigrated with his parents to America, and came to Pigeon Falls where the family stayed about a year when they moved to the farm place about three miles north of Eleva, where John Tollefson has resided ever since. June 11, 1904 he was united in marriage to Ella Emerson of Frenchville, Wisconsin. Two sons were born to this union Leo, who died in infancy and James, who survives his father. Mr. Tollefson has been in poor health for some time and on January 22, he passed away. He leaves to mourn his death besides his wife and son, four brothers and one sister. They are: Matt, Albert and Bennie Tollefson of Van Hook, North Dakota and Mrs. Ed Emerson, also of Van Hook, and his brother Ole B. Tollefson of Eleva. The funeral took place the 26th and the large gathering in the home and the church gave ample proof of the esteem in which deceased was held. At the church in Eleva, Rev. Langehough spoke in Norwegian and Rev. Wichmann in English. The body was laid to rest at the Eleva cemetery, awaiting the resurrection morn. H.L. Kjentvet had charge of the funeral. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 4, 1926
JOHN L. TOMTER (BIRI)
John L. Tomter was born February 12, 1837 in Biri, Norway. His parents were Lars and Kjersti Tomter. As a young boy he learned the trade of a harness-maker, a trade he worked at while in Norway and also utilized to some extent after coming to this country. He left Norway in 1867 on a sailboat, which was 13 weeks in crossing the Atlantic. His destination was Coon Valley. Two years later, in 1869, he was married to Marthe Olsdatter Rolieie. She had also emigrated from Biri and had arrived in Coon Valley in 1869. The following three years they lived on a rented farm in that valley. A daughter was born to them, but died after a year. In 1872 they left Coon Valley and went north into Trempealeau County, where they thought chances for home-seekers and home builders were better. Thus they came to Pigeon Creek Valley in 1872, and settled on the Tomter farm where they have lived and labored these 44 years. They have prospered materially these years as the beautiful and well-developed farm, which is now owned by their son, Ole, bears evidence. They have raised a family of eleven children, and by the sturdiness, the simple and genuine worth of their character, they have won and possessed in a high degree the respect and love of the people in this community. After a lingering illness of several weeks, John Tomter died December 24. The funeral , which was held Wednesday, December 29, from the Synod Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls, was largely attended. E.B. Christophersen officiated. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JANUARY 6, 1916
HENRY THORSGAARD (GULBRANDSDALEN, NORWAY)
Henry Thorsgaard, shipper of agricultural products at Blair, was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, December 10, 1845, twelfth of the twenty-four children of Lars and Ingebor (Hembrom) Thorsgaard, who brought their family to America in 1854, and located in Coon Prairie, Vernon County, where they lived until their death in 1886. As a young man, Henry worked in the pineries in the northern part of the state, learned the miller trade at Black River Falls, and for a time operated the mill at Ettrick. It was in 1873 that he came to Blair, and with John and Orrin Van Ness built the Blair mill. Two years later he bought out his partners, and then continued to operate the establishment until the early eighties. Then for a number of years, with the exception of a period of four years from 1887 to 1891, when he was county treasurer, he farmed near Blair, until 1895, when he engaged in his present business. He ships all kinds of farm products, and makes a specialty of hay, grain, seed and potatoes. He also deals in flour. Mr. Thorsgaard has been a member of the village council for ten years and has served as treasurer of the school district. He was married March 1, 1880 to Annetta Olson, who was born in Norway, came to America in 1876 and died in 1898 at the age of 42 years. Mr. and Mrs. Thorsgaard had four children: Ida Paulina, Louisa, Hannah and Christina. Ida Paulina died in 1898 at the age of 18 years. Louisa died the same year at the age of 16 years. Hannah married Solomon G. Gutherie, railroad station agent at Sidnaw, Michigan and they have three children: Ralph, Mack and Helen. Christina has been a school teacher. She now lives at home. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
GOODWIN TORAASON, D.D.S. (BLAIR, WISCONSIN)
Goodwin Toraason, D.D.S., successfully practicing his profession in Blair, is a native of this village, born November 4, 1885, son of Peder and Carrie (Lovberg) Toraason. He was reared in the village of his birth, passed through the graded and high school, and entered the dental department of the Northwestern University at Chicago graduating in 1908. In the fall of 1908 he opened an office here. Dr. Toraason became interested in baseball as a young boy, when he played on vacant lots with the other youngsters. His abilities increased and in time he became a professional ball player. In 1907 he pitched the town team of Blair to many a victory against semi-professional and professional teams, and in 1908 he did excellent work as pitcher for the Manitowoc team in the Lake Short League. He has since received many flattering offers, but chooses to devote his time to the practice of his profession. Dr. Toraason was married September 4, 1912 to Theresa Gilbert, daughter of T.I. and Maria I(Thirston) Gilbert, the former of whom, a merchant of Blair, died in 1904, the latter now making her home in Blair. Dr. and Mrs. Toraason have one son, Goodwin Ernest, born February 6, 1914. Peder Toraason, father of Dr. Toraason, was born in Solar, Norway, and in 1866 came to this county and located in Blair, where he and his wife still reside. They are the parents of ten children: Tena, Lena, Ole, Minnie, Palmer, Claus, Goodwin, Clifford M., Stella and Hiram. Lena is the wife of James Harvey of St. Paul. Ole lives in Westby, Montana. Minnie is the wife of H.A. Lober of Minneapolis. The rest are all in Blair. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
OLE TOMTER (PIGEON TOWNSHIP, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Ole Tomter, proprietor of the Tomter Dairy Farm of 158 acres in sections 27 and 28, town 23, range 7, Pigeon Township, was born on the farm where he still lives, November 11, 1877, son of John L. and Martha (Olsdatter Rolieie) Tomter. John L. Tomter died December 24, 1915, and Mrs. Tomter resides with her son Ole. He was reared on the home place, attended the district schools, and learned farming from his father. In July 1903, he and his brother Anton rented the farm and three years later they purchased it. In 1909 he acquired his brother Anton's interest, and has since continued as the sole owner. On this place, he conducts general farming operations, making a specialty of grade Holstein cattle. His home is a pleasant frame structure of 12 rooms. Like the other buildings on the farm, it is lighted with acetylene gas. The barn, 50 by 62 by 31 feet, was erected in 1915. It has cement floors, steel stanchions and other modern features. The silo, constructed in 1916, is of glazed blocks. The other buildings are also in keeping with these sightly structures. Mr. Tomter is a prominent man in the community and has been on he town board since 1914 and on the school board since 1915. He is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and in the Whitehall Hospital. His fraternal relations are with the SA.F. His religious faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he is efficiently serving as treasurer. Mr. Tomter was married October 27, 1906 to Hilda Maria Skoyen, who was born in Hale Township, January 15, 1886, daughter of Hans and Martha Skoyen, early settlers. Mr. and Mrs. Tomter have four children: Hensel Joseph, born August 8, 1907; Lester, born March 28, 1910; Lawrence Raymond, born July 19, 1912; and Sylvia Amanda, born April 8, 1916. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
AMUND G. TJOFLAT (HARDANGER, BERGEN STIFT, NORWAY) (2)
Amund G. Tjoflat, a contracting carpenter residing in Ettrick, Wisconsin, where he is conducting a good business, was born in Hardanger, Bergen Stift, Norway, January 30, 1870, son of Guttorm and Herborg (Djonne) Tjoflat. The parents were natives of the same locality, Bergen, a famous old seaport, being the nearest large city. The father, who was a sailor most of his life, died in his native land in January 1912, but his wife is still living in Norway. Neither of them ever came to America. Amund G. Tjoflat was the second born of eight children. He attended school in Norway, and at the age of 16 years, began working as a farm hand. Two years later he commenced an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for three years in his native land. In 1892 he set out for the United States and on arriving in this country continued west to Jackson County, Wisconsin, locating near the Trempealeau County line. He was at this time unable to speak English, but for five months attended an English school in Ettrick, where he learned the rudiments of the language and later increased his knowledge through association with English speaking people. Soon after arriving here he began working at his trade in Ettrick and continued to do so as a journeyman until 1899, in which year he engaged in contract work, and has been thus occupied up to the present time, his contracts having been for work in Ettrick and the vicinity. In 1906 he built his present residence in Ettrick. Besides owning good property in the village, he is a stockholder in the Ettrick Lumber Company, Ettrick Farmers Telephone Company and the Ettrick & Northern Railroad, and is recognized as one of the enterprising and prosperous businessmen of the village-a position gained through his own unaided efforts. June 2, 1898, Mr. Tjoflat was united in marriage with Elenora Torkelson, who was born in Jackson County, Wisconsin, daughter of Haldor and Breta (Grinde) Torkelson, the parents being natives of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Tjoflat are the parents of six children: Gerold B., Berglot H, Oliver E. Esther V., Howard L. and Joseph Kenneth, all of whom are residing at home. Mr. Tjoflat belongs to the order of Beavers, being trustee of his lodge. His political principles are in the main those of the Republican party. He and his family are members of the Lutheran Synod Church. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
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