Hill Leroy A.
Hill T.O. Mrs.
Hill Teman O.
Hilleque John
Hilstad Andrew Mrs.
Hjelsand Andrew
Hjerleid Syver
Hjerleid Syver 2
Hoem Iver Mrs.
Hofstad Anna
Hofstad Ole Iverson
Hoff Arne Arneson
Hoff Bergine Mrs.
Hoff Betsy Amundson
Hoff Christian C.
Hoff Harold Mrs.
Hoff Harold
Hoff Ole B. Mrs.
Hoff Otto O.
Hogan Thomas
Hogan Thomas 2
Hoganson Hans L.
Hogden Andrew Anderson
Hogden Anna A.
Hogden Christian J.
Hogden Gubjor Smedhaugen
Hogden Lewis Mrs.
Hogen Katherine
Hoheim John Mrs.
Hoheim Lars
Hokland Frederick N.
Holen Erick
Holmen Johannes O.
Holmen Sena Mrs.
Holm Ole J. Mrs.
Holman Peter Torson
Holmen Theodore
Holstad Thorstein Mrs.
Holtan Richard H.
Holte Andrew Mrs.
Holte Even
Holte Even A.
Holte Mathias Mrs.
Holte Severine Mathson
Holven Tom L.
Horn Rasmus Mrs.
Horn Sophia Mrs.
Hornslein Julia Mrs.
Houkhom Nels Mrs.
Houkom Gunder
Houkom John A.
Houkom John S.
Houkom Thorbor Mrs.
Hovde Johannes Thorson
Hovde Ole
Hovelsrud John E.
Hovelsrud Syverine
Hovre Olaf
Hovre Ole O.
Hovre Ole O. 2
Hovre Sonnov Mrs.
Hoyne Andrew
Huff Peter John
Hulberg Bernhard
Hulberg Christian
Hulberg Conrad
Hulberg Edward T.
Hulberg Gulbrand
Hulberg Syver T.
Hulberg Thomas T.
Husegard Emil
Huslegard Emil
Huslegard Halvor
Huslegard Ole H.
Husmoen Iver
Husemoen Olaf
Husmoen Marit Sorhaugen
Husmoen Theodore O.
Husmoen Tobias
Husom Ole P.
Husom Torval
TEMAN O. HILL: (URDAL, VALDERS, NORDRE)
"T.O. Hill died at his home in this village Saturday, January 10, 1914 at 12:15 o'clock after a brief illness of solar pneumonia. The funeral services will be held today (Thursday) at 2 o'clock at the French Creek valley church with interment in that cemetery, the Rev. Bestul officiating.
Teman O. Hill was born in Urdal, Valders, Nordre, Norway, August 8, 1846 and came to America with his parents, August 7, 1848, locating at Perry, Dane county, Wisconsin. In March 1869 he was united in marriage to Miss Anne Teman and they moved to town of Ettrick in April 1873 where they lived on a farm. Ten children came to bless their union; three, Edward, Andrew and Clara preceding the death of their father. The others, Olus and Otto of Buffalo, S.D., Mrs. H.O. Thompson, Mrs. Phillip Oldendorf, Albet and Melvin of Blair, and Mrs. B.O. Lund of Winona, Minn, are expected to be in attendance at the funeral. Mr. and Mrs. Hill moved to Blair, Wednesday, November 25, 1913 from Ettrick to live a life of retirement from work, and a week before his death he became sick with pneumonia the ravages of the disease claiming a victim of the good citizen, father and husband. The widow and children have the sympathy of the community." THE BLAIR PRESS - Janaury 5, 1914
ARNE ARNESON HOFF AND BETSY AMUNDSON HOFF: (SONDRE AURDAL, BAGSE VALDERS)
"Arne Arneson Hoff and his wife, Betsy Amundson Hoff, aged 86 and 85 years respectively, died at their home near Osseo January 5 and January 9 respectively. A double funeral for the aged couple, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in May 1931, was held from the Lutheran church in Osseo January 11, conducted by Rev. Aune. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hoff were born in Sondre Aurdal, Bagse Valders, Norway, the former coming to America at the age of nine and the latter not until she had reached the age of 25. The young people met in Dane county, this state, and were married May 18, 1871. Their first home was in Borst Valley, Buffalo county, and they spent one year homesteading land in South Dakota, but in 1894 they moved to Osseo and bought a farm adjacent to the village. Five of their ten chidren are still living: namely, Mrs. Oscar Broin at Fairfax, Minn; Henry of St. Paul; Mrs. Henry Frasc, Mondovi; Mrs. George Wraalstad, Breckenridge, Minn., and Albert at home. Mrs. Hoff leaves two brothers, Syver Amundson of Whitehall and Hans of Newell, S.D., and one sister, Mrs. Ed Larson of Whitehall." - WHITEHALL TIMES, January 21, 1932
THOMAS HOGAN: (KVITISED TELEMARKEN)
"Thomas Hogan, proprietor of the Thomas Hogan & Son Lumber Company at Blair, was born in Kvitised Telemarken, Norway, March 18, 1854, son of Knudt Tollefson ad Gunhild Tvedt, the former of whom died in 1863 and the latter in 1862. The original famly name was Hougen. Knudt Tollefson was a lieutenant in the standing army of Norway. The first of the family to come to American was Gunder (brotyher of Thomas), who reached this country in 1878. He was joined two years later by Thomas, at Humbird, Wis. For a time Thomas Hogan worked in the lumber yard there, then he secured employment in a sawmill four miles southeast of Hatfield. So faithfully did he perform his duties there, that after the first year he was placed in charge of the shipping. In 1886, with Simon Lien, he opened a lumber yard at Blair, under the firm name of Hogan & Lien. Owing to ill health, Mr. Lien sold out to Mr. Hogan and the firm became the Hogan Lumber & Stock Company. From 1898 until January 1, 1917, the business was conducted under Mr. Hogan's name as an individual. January 1, 1917, the firm became Thomas Hogan & Son. Mr. Hogan deals in all kinds of lumber and building material, and has built up a good business, the success of wich has been due to his fairness and business integrity. Mr. Hogan enjoys an excellent standing in the community and has served on the village council for eight years. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America. He was married January 28, 1885 to Anna Olive Lynnes, who was born in Edsvald, Norway, daughter of Andrew and Johanna Lynnes, the former of whom now lives with the Hogan family. Mr. and Mrs. Hogan have had six children: Louisa, Jennie, Clifford, Agnes, Gena and Arthur. Louisa lives at home. Jennie died at the age of 17 years; Clifford at the age of 24 years, and Agnes at the age of 15 years. Gena married Tosten Thompson and they have two children, Truman and Ruth. Arthur married Mabel Johnstad and resides at Blair, where he is associated in business with his father in the firm of Thomas Hogan & Son. Mr. Hogan and family are affiliated religiously with the Lutheran Church." History of Trempealeau County, 1917
EVEN A. HOLTE: (KOLBU, VESTRE TOTEN)
"Even A. Holte was born to the parents, Anders and Oline Holte at Kolbu, Vestre Toten, Norway, November 16, 1859. He attended high school and officers' training in Norway. At the age of 20 he came to America. Landing in Philadelphia just before Christmas, he came by train to Augusta the day before New Year's where friends met him and brought him to Strum, Here he worked on farms a few years.
On July 2, 1887, he was united in marriage to Marie Rice, daughter of the late Simon and Mathea Rice. For about two years they rented what was the Nick Rognlien farm. In 1890 Mr. Holte bought the three upper forties of the present Holte farm. In the late '90's he purchased the adjoining six forties and the home was established on the present location, where he spent the remainder of his life.
For several years Mr. Holte served as town treasurer. He was one of the organizers of the Strum creamery and served as its secretary for a great many years. He was secretary of the West Beef River church, he served on the school board and was a director of the Strum bank for a long time. For many years he distributed mail to rural post offices.
In 1921 he made his first trip back to Norway and when he went again in 1930 he also toured Germany, visiting Oberamagau, where he saw the Passion Play.
Mr. Holte had been in failing health the past year and passed peacefully away at his home on Sunday, June 6, at noon, after being confined to his bed for about a week. Funeral services were conducted June 9 at the West Beef River Lutheran church, the Rev. A.H. Grimstad officiating, the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe assisting in Norwegian. Interment was in the family lot in the West Beef River cemetery beside his wife, who preceded him in death on December 3, 1941.
Surviving are three sons, Seymour at home, Nordahl of Kansas City and Anton of St. Paul, and seven daughters, Minnie, Mrs. G.K. Mork, Tomah; Olga, Beloit; Julia, Mrs. A.J. Johnson, Chillccothe, Mo.; Laura, Mrs. Ed Roglien, Hanlontown, Ia.; Josephine, Mrs. R.W. Evans, Butte, Mont.; Lillian, Mrs. E.L. Johnson, EauClaire; and Evelyn, Mrs. R. Englesby, Eleva. He also leaves 24 grandchildren besides a host of friends." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - June 24, 1948
EVEN HOLTE: (TOTEN)
"Even Holte, one of the enterprising and successful farmers and dairymen of Unity Township, was born in Westertoten, Norway, November 16, 1859. His father, Andreas Holte, who was a farmer, and his mother, Olena Paulseth, died in Norway. Even Holte was a young man in his nineteeth year when he emigrated to the United States in 1879. Settling in Unity Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., he found employment working on farms for about a year, and then, having made up his mind to be his own boss, rented the farm of Christ Olson, which he operated for five years. During the five years following he rented the farm of C. Quale, and then, being in a position to purchase a farm of his own, bought the first 120 acres of his present farm , which he has since enlarged by purchase up to its present size of 320 acres. His improvements since he took hold of the place have greatly increased its value, one of the most notable being a frame barn, built in 1901, which measures 34 by 70 by 20 feet above stone basement, having cement floors and stanchions, and in connection with which there is an L, 30 by 30 by 20 feet, for horses. Having thus provided for his stock, Mr. Holte, in 1903, built himself a new residence, a two-story and basement structure, 30 by 34 feet, containing eight rooms and heated with hot air furnace. The other buildings on the farm are also substantial and equipped with modern conveniences. Mr. Holte raises pure-bred Holstein cattle, having a herd of 53, and using a three-unit milking machine. His silo is of frame construction, plastered with cement plaster inside and out. He was one of the organizers of the Unity Cooperative Creamery at Strum and was its secretary for ten years, and is a stockholder in the first State Bank of Strum. Although a busy man, Mr Holte has devoted some part of his time to aiding in local government affairs. Thus he was township treasurer for eight years, school treasurer three years and a director of the school board three years and is now treasurer of the school district, making a good record as a public official. His business holdings include stock in the State Bank of Strum, of which he is a director. For 15 years he has been secretrary of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran Church, to which he belongs as a member. For nearly 30 years Mr. Holte has led a domestic life, having been united in marriage July 2, 1887, to Marie Rice of Unity Township, who was born in Vernon County, Wisconsin, April 28, 1867. Her father, Simon Rice, and her mother, whose maiden name was Mathea Bergum, were Norwegians, the former being born at Little Hammer, Norway, June 21, 1845, and the latter at Land, Norway, October 24, 1845. Simon came to America in 1854, settling in Vernon County, this state, whence in 1869 he came to Unity Township, Trempealeau County, where he was subsequently engaged in farming until his death, May 21, 1901. He was one of those hardy settlers, almost pioneers, who broke the land and helped to lay the foundations of that agricultural prosperity of which the present generation enjoys the advantage. His wife, who survived him, is now living on the old home farm in section 30, Unity Township. The family circle of Mr. and Ms. Even Holte has been rounded out to good dimensions by the birth of ten children, whose record in brief is as follows: Minnie, born November 21, 1888, and now residing in Chicago; Olga, born December 16, 1890, who is living at home; Julia, born December 28, 1892, who graduated at River Falls normal school and is a teacher in the fourth grade at Marmarth, N.D.; Laura, born February 23, 1895, who is the wife of Edwin Rognlien, a bank cashier of Foster, Wis., and Seymour, born April 20, 1897; Josephine, born July 18, 1899; Nordahl, born December 20, 1902; Lillian, born February 3, 1904; Evelyn, born December 18, 1906; and Alton, born December 12, 1908, all living at home."- History of Trempealeau County
JOHN E. HOVELSRUD: (VALDERS)
"John E. Hovelsrud passed away at his home at Hegg Saturday, November 30th following an illness of several months. Mr. Hovelsrud spent his life as a Parochial school teacher. He retired several years ago.
The deceased was born in Valdre, Norway, September 20, 1848. In 1878 he was united in marriage to Syverine Linberg. Four children were born to bless this union. The children were all at his bedside. The children are: Julius of Crosby, N.D.; Mrs. John Brennegen of Norge, Va., Mrs. Julius Tjerstad of Ettrick and Herman of Richland Center, Wisc.
Funeral services were held Wenesday." THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - December 6, 1929
TORVAL HUSOM (NORWAY)
Torval Husom, 69, of Ladysmith died Sunday, March 5, at St. Mary�s hospital following a two months illness with a heart condition. Funeral services were held the following Wednesday from the McElravy funeral home and the Hope Lutheran church. The Rev. Henry Erickson officiated and burial was in Riverside cemetery. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Lars Husom, Torval was born in Norway January 8, 1882. He came to this country at an early age, settling at Mankato, Minnesota;. He later moved to Whitehall and attended the Dagget school in the town of Pigeon. His marriage to Mary Grace Ecker took place at Whitehall December 25, 1912. They moved to Ladysmith in 1921. Mr. Husom had been a carpenter and millwright and had also engaged in farming. He is survived by his wife; a daughter, Margaret J. Turner, Columbus, Ohio; a son, Harold L. Husom, England; four grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Marie Strand of Denver, Colorado; and Mrs. Sophia Anderson of Eau Claire; and a brother, Elmer Husom of Chippewa Falls. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 30, 1950
MRS. ANDREW HILSTAD (NESS)
Funeral services for Mrs. Ellie Hilstad, 95, who died at her home in the Town of Hale Tuesday morning, October 19, at 9 o�clock, were held October 23 at the home and at the Elk Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. Rev. Christophersen sang and there was a number by the church choir. Pallbearers were two sons-in-law, Bert Crawford and William Toftum; three grandsons, Arnold Johnson, Releigh Trenter and Cervensel Toftum, and one great-grandson, Morris Johnson. The flowers were carried by granddaughters, Mrs. Arnold Johnson and Agnes Trenter, who carried the �Grandmother� basket and LeRoy Johnson who carried the �Great-Grandmother� wreath. Burial was in the church cemetery. As Elie Gunda Lille-Aalin, Mrs. Hilstad was born in Ness Parish, Hedemarken, Norway, February 24, 1853 the daughter of Gulbrand Gulbrandson and Elie Larson. This information appears in a family tree prepared on parchment in Oslo, Norway, by her nephew, Even Berg, who had a government position there before the war, of whom the family lost track during the Nazi occupation, but who has written them since. When she was five days old, her mother died. She was baptized in the Ness Lutheran parish and in 1868 she was confirmed there by the Rev. Christian Borehgrevink. In 1876 she was joined in marriage to Andrew Hilstad at the same church and by the same pastor who confirmed her. She and her husband resided on a farm. In 1881 he came to America and the next year she followed, accompanied by two daughters, ages four and 1 � years old, her parents-in-law, Sever and Bratha Johnson, and the latter�s daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Gjestvang and sons, Lewis and Sever. They arrived in Whitehall on June 2, 1882 and were met here by Ed and Gilbert Hulberg and Bernt Enger, now deceased. Mrs. Hilstad and daughters were taken into the Hulberg home in Hale Township, the present John Mork place, where they resided until fall. They then moved in with Mrs. Wilhem Gjestvang, where the two women kept house together while their husbands went to the pineries. In the spring the Hilstads established their home on the farm now occupied by Carl Jacobson. Later they lived on the present Carl Koepke place and in 1898 settled on the land that has been their home ever since. When her oldest child, a daughter, was 21 and her youngest two years old, Mr. Hilstad died, but she continued to operate the farm in spite of handicaps. That was in �98. She was a charter member of the Ladies Aid of the Hale Lutheran church, of which she continued to be a member as long as she was able. Of the eight children born to her those living are Emma, Mrs. Martin Johnson, Osseo, who resided with her since the death of her husband a number of years ago; Belle, Mrs. Bert Crawford, Hale; Gunda, Mrs. William Trenter, Whitehall; Sever and Anton at home and Selma, Mrs. William Toftum of Hale. She also leaves four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren besides nephews and nieces in Denver, Colorado and Norway, and a host of other relatives and friends. Her two sisters died in Norway. Mrs. Hilstad through her long life was ever willing to assist neighbors and friends in time of trouble or need, and they, together with the family feel: �A precious one from us has gone, A place is vacant in our home Which never can be filled. God in his wisdom has recalled The boon his love had given; And thought the body slumbers here The soul is safe in Heaven.� THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 4, 1948
JOHN HILLEQUE (NORWAY)
Funeral services for John Hilleque who passed away at the Whitehall Community hospital Friday morning, September 4, 1953 after a lingering illness were held Monday afternoon at the Zion Lutheran church with the Rev. L.W. Halvorson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Percy Hilleque, Henry Hilleque, Jr., Albert Stephenson and Harland Gunderson, nephews of the deceased and Otis Larson and Vernal Engebretson, nephews by marriage. Mr. Hilleque was born in Norway, March 12, 1876. He was baptized in Norway and came to the United States with his parents when he was a year old. He spent his childhood days in Joe Coulee and Tappen Coulee. He was confirmed in the Blair Lutheran church and made his home in Blair most of his life. He was employed for several years as a lumberman in northern Wisconsin and as a laborer in this vicinity. He never married. While he possessed little formal education, he was avid reader and was well informed on the history and geography of the world. His interest in world affairs continued until his last illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ole and Gjestrud Hilleque Johnson; two brothers, Kernell and Jens; and a sister, Amelia. He is survived by three brothers, Ole of Blair; Henry of Sparta and Elmer of Viroqua; and three sisters; Mrs. Martha Stephenson of Madison, Mrs. Christine Gunderson of Oconomowoc; and Mrs. Julia Mires of Salem, Oregon, all of whom except Mrs. Mires were present at the last rites. Several nieces and nephews also survive. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 10, 1953
MRS. T.O. HILL (AURDAL)
Mrs. T.O. Hill was born in Nordre Aurdal, Noway, July 7, 1846, and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H.O. Thompson, near Ettrick, February 6, 1921, of diabetes and other complications. At the age of 16 she came with her two brothers and sister to Perry, Dane County, Wisconsin, where she resided until the year 1873. In March 1869 she was married to Tideman Hill. In April 1873 Mr. and Mrs. Hill came to the Town of Ettrick where they made their home on the old homestead until November 29, 1913 when they moved to Blair where they lived until the death of Mr. Hill January 19, 1914, since which time Mrs. Hill has been her home with her children. Seven children are left to mourn the loss of a loving mother, namely: Olaus of Buffalo, South Dakota; Otto of Twin Brooks, South Dakota; Mrs. Philip Oldendorf and Melvin of Blair; Albert of Whitehall; Mrs. H.O. Thompson of Ettrick and Mrs. B.O. Lund of Winona, Minnesota. They were all present at the funeral. Three children preceded her in death. She also leaves two brothers, Ole of Glencoe, Minnesota and Andrew of Colorado, also 27 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The funeral was held on the 10th at the French Creek Lutheran church, Rev. C.B. Bestul officiating. Reprinted from the Whitehall Times-Banner THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 24, 1921
ANDREW HJELSAND (NORDLAND)
Funeral services for Andrew Hjelsand who died in his sleep early Friday, October 21, 1955, were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the First Lutheran church here. The Rev. K.M. Urberg officiated and burial was in Rest Haven cemetery. Hjelsand, 75, was born March 4, 1880 in Sondre Prestegjeld Vesterdal Nordland, Norway, the son of Peder and Sigrid Andersdatter Hjelsand. He was baptized June 6, 1880. At the age of four he came to America with his parents and two sisters. They settled in a farm in Upper French Creek. He was confirmed in the First Lutheran church in Blair by the late Rev. S.S. Urberg on August 5, 1894 and was a member of the church until his death. On January 3, 1903 he was married to Mary Hermoe at Blair by the Rev. Urberg. They moved to Blair in 1936. They celebrated their Golden Wedding in 1953. He is survived by his wife; three daughter, Mrs. Iver (Alma) Berg, Blair; Mrs. Roy (Olga) Ekern, Ettrick; Mrs. James (Irene) Patrick, Colorado Springs, Colorado; four sons, Palmer, Blair; Hulbert, Centerville; Arthur, LaCrosse; and Robert, Chippewa Falls; 21 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Sena Gilbertson, Galesville; Mrs. Tom Townswick, Tyler, Minnesota; and Mrs. C.R. Gooding, San Diego, California. Three sons have died. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 25, 1955
MRS. IVER HOEM (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Iver Hoem passed away at the old homestead in the Town of Springfield, three miles from Disco, Sunday, September 8, 1929 at 5:10 p.m. Her death came as a shock to her family, for while she had suffered of diabetes for some time and not been in good health, yet she had been around about as usual and had arisen as usual on Saturday morning, and drank a cup of coffee, after which she returned to her room, failing rapidly. Funeral services are to be held tomorrow, Thursday, from the home, conducted by Rev. Bredeson of Taylor. Interment is to be in the Johnson cemetery near Disco. Inger Johnson was born in Gulbransdalen, Norway, June 23, 1843, a daughter of John and Carrie Johnson. She came to this country when about 21 years of age, coming to Black River Falls. During her first year here she cooked at Rudd�s Mills, and there she became acquainted with Iver J. Hoem, who had employment at the same place. They were married the next year by Sever Hjerleid, Justice of the Peace in the Town of Springfield. The first year of their married life they lived with John Johnson and they then took up a homestead which industry and interest combined have made into their present place. It had been their home since that time and is now occupied by their oldest son, John. Mr. Hoem passed away there 46 years ago. Ten children were born to them, eight of whom survive and mourn the loss of their mother at this time. They are Martha, Mrs. N.T. Christianson of Skutley Coulee; Johanna, Mrs. Oscar Langseth of Oklahoma; Rendy, Mrs. E.F. Horsley of Minneapolis; Irene, Mrs. Rasmussen of Idaho; John, Jacob and Albert Hoem of Disco and Chris Hoem of Blair. Their first child, a little daughter, Martha, died in infancy and a daughter, Miss Karen Hoem died of influenza about ten years ago. Mrs. Hoem was a fine Christian woman, devoted to the interests of her family and a kind and loving mother. She was held in the highest regard by all who knew her and loved her for her admirable qualities. The deep sympathy of a wide circle of friends is extended to her sons and daughters in the hour of her passing. THE TAYLOR HERALD - SEPTEMBER 13, 1929
SYVER HJERLEID (DOVRE)
The subject of this notice, Syver Hjerleid, died at his home in Springfield, Jackson County, Saturday, February 27, 1909, aged 79 years, 4 months and 6 days. Deceased was born in Dovre, Norway, September 21, 1829, being the youngest of three and the only one of his family to come to America. He left home at 14 years of age to learn the painter trade at Christiania. He came to America in 1852, locating in Chicago, where he worked at his trade. In 1854 with a friend, he started west in search of work, seeking to locate in Chickesaw County, Iowa, but found the land �swampy and flat.� From Iowa he walked to Pigeon Valley in Trempealeau County, but finding the land here �light and sandy,� he crossed the hills to the south and located in the Town of Springfield on government land that cost him $1.25 per acre. He then returned to Chicago and followed his trade. In 1857 he came back and took up his residence on his land and built the house in which he died. In 1860 he was united in marriage to Helene Knutson at Chicago. Fourteen months after marriage their first of 11 children was born and from that time forces met and life�s struggle was on. Mr. Hjerleid was a remarkable man in many ways. He knew the distinction between right and wrong in an approachable degree and had a fine conception of duty�s call. He could read, write and converse intelligently in English and German, spoke and wrote Norwegian well, and delighted in Swedish poetry. His literacy stars were Burns, Aasen, Welhaven and Wergeland. His idea of intellectual perfection revolved around Lincoln and Douglas, both of whom he heard and knew. He was universally loved and respected by all his neighbors, who often honored him and he honored and esteemed them for a half a century. He was one of the few left of the �old school.� We know not what may be in store for us in the future, but we do know that He who covers the rosebud with autumn leaves and winter�s snow to again open its petals with renewed fragrance at another spring, will not forget the soul of this good man. The funeral was held Tuesday at the Trempealeau Valley church, the services being conducted by Rev. Urberg of this place and Gimmestad of Galesville. Many from Blair and vicinity attended the obsequies. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MARCH 4, 1909
OLE IVERSON HOFSTAD (STJORDALEN)
Ole Iverson Hofstad was born in Stjordalen, Nordre Trondhjems Amt., Norway, January 24 1843. He came to Dane County, Wisconsin in 1865. With him, on the same boat, came Anne Estenson, whom he married soon after their arrival. In 1866, having become the owner of an ox team, wagon and a few household good, the Hofstads, accompanied by Anton Ekern, came to this County and at once located in Fitch coulee. By rights this valley ought to be called Hofstad coulee, for the Hofstads were the first to settle there. In common with the majority of pioneers, they had to meet and overcome many hardships and privations. In 1867 sorrow came to them when they lost their first-born. But even grief, such as people of wealth and leisure may indulge in, was a luxury in those days when poverty spurred them to constant toil. When winter came, husbands usually went to the pineries to be gone sometimes four, five months. Many wives, who had no children, were left in crushing loneliness. Usually some neighbor�s boy or girl took the absent husband�s place. Thus it was that the writer during the winter of 1868-69 found a home with the Hofstad family as chore-boy but no school to attend. Neighbors were few and most of them far away. All able-bodied men, even boys of eighteen years or less, were in the woods. Wages ranged from sixteen to twenty dollars per month for green hands. My memory of Mrs. Hofstad is that she was a genial kind-hearted woman, who took what life brought her as a matter of course in a pleasant way. She was born in Norway, September 19, 1842, and died at Pigeon Falls August 5, 1917. Besides the child that died in infancy, the Hofstads had two children who survive them, Emil Hofstad and Maria Bruvold, both residents of Pigeon Falls. Mr. Hofstad was a quiet, unassuming man, rather slight in build and of medium height. He was lacking in that force of character and physical robustness which was the heritage of most of the men who first settled in the Town of Pigeon. It is therefore greatly to his credit that through steadiness of purpose and constancy in attendance to things he could to that he won his way to financial independency and a reputation for meeting the common obligations due to society. Since the death of his wife, he suffered from many infirmities, but he was fortunate in having the constant attendance of his son during all these years and in case of need, that of his daughter. His longed for rest came September 1, 1925, at the home of his son in Pigeon Falls. The funeral services, conducted by Rev. Christophersen, were held in the upper church at Pigeon Falls September 4. Considering the fact that the deceased had been out of touch with most of the people in the community for several years, there was a goodly attendance. Hofstad belonged to the silent millions who build the substructures of society scarcely conscious of the indispensable service they render. Fame and station, acclaimed and distinguished by popular attention and hurrahs, came not to them. Noiselessly as polyps they construct the Isles of Life, over which more brilliant talents and genius may afterwards display radiance and too often get credit for the solidity of the stage on which they play their meteoric parts. Honor to the silent millions who must find their sole reward in doing their simple duties in the everyday routine of life without public applause or attention. Written by H.A. Anderson, September 6, 1925 THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 10, 1925
ANNA HOFSTAD (O. STODALEN, TRONDHJEM)
Mrs. Ole Hofstad, whose death was announced in these columns as having occurred August 5, was born September 19, 1842, in Ovre Stodalen, Trondhjem, Norway. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Esten Stefenson. She left Norway in 1865 and came to Coon Valley where she was married to Ole Hofstad the same year. The following year they removed to Pigeon creek valley, which at that time was little better than a wilderness. In this valley their home has been on the old Hofstad homestead in Fitch coulee a little better than half a century. They were among the early settlers, who, August 18, 1866, organized the Pigeon Creek Evangelical Lutheran church of the Synod. During 51 years they have been faithful members of this congregation. Three children were born to them, one dying in infancy. Mr. O. Brovold and Emil are surviving children. Besides the husband and children, she leaves two brothers, Bertinus Estenson of Pigeon Falls and Peter Estenson of Fitch Coulee. Mrs. Hofstad had been a sufferer for years from diabetes and her death was not unexpected. She was buried from the Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls, August 7, Rev. Christophersen officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMBER 6, 1917
OTTO O. HOFF (BIRI)
Otto O. Hoff was born in Bir, one of the agricultural garden spots of Norway, June 18, 1843. His parents were Ole and Helene Daffinson. Of a family of four brothers and four sisters, he was the last survivor. In the ancient church of Bir, he was christened, confirmed and instructed in the faith which served him so comfortingly during his long life. Sometime after he reached the status of manhood he learned the carpenter trade. In those days - much more than now - U.S. was the worldly Mecca that called to every ambitious youth. In 1871, at the age of 28, he followed his call and came to Onalaska, LaCrosse County, Wisconsin. Here soon after his arrival he was taken sick, but he soon found a good home with Christian and Mathid Hov in Hardies Creek this county. After recovering his health, he took up his trade and in short time moved to Hale where for some time he made his home with Ole P. Feiring, a pioneer settler. Soon afterwards he met and became acquainted with the lady that was to be his companion for more than fifty years. November 22, 1875, he was united in marriage to Bergine Fredricks Steig by Rev. Em. Christophersen. After marriage the deceased and his wife lived with his wife�s parents until Hoff had built a house on the land which became his legal home until he passed away. When his son Oscar lost his wife about three years ago, Mr. and Mrs. Hoff moved to Ettrick to help care for their motherless grandchildren. Here his health gradually failed, his last sickness dating from October 5, 1926. The end came quietly and peacefully January 8, 1927. Conducted by Rev. Christophersen and Rev. Urberg, his funeral was held in Christophersen�s church at Pigeon Falls, January 12. All his living children and widow attended together with a large number of relatives and a host of old time friends and neighbors. In the upper Pigeon Falls cemetery he was laid to rest beside seven sons who in childhood, had passed on before him. Seven children survive him. They are: Oscar Hoff of Ettrick; Hilman Hoff of Leeds, North Dakota; Fredrick Hoff of Hale who lives on the Hoff homestead; Mrs. Josephine Hoff of the Town of Pigeon; Mrs. Blanchie McWethy of McHenry County, North Dakota and Mrs. Bernice Drangstveit of the Town of Preston. In social and business way I have known Mr. Hoff practically since he came to the Town of Hale. Known him when he was struggling upwards in the acquirement of a home. Known him since he got beyond the straits of poverty, and was busy in giving his children a better chance making a livelihood than he had. Known him also since he turned his farm over to his son in 1912. Mr. Hoff was a very quiet man, who in a crowd did more listening and thinking than talking. He was a steady worker, guided by good common sense rather than be brilliant talents. He won his forward way by hard work rather than by speculative scheming. The friends he won he held because he did well. It is scarcely necessary to say that he often passed through �The narrow aisles of pain� on his journey through life; for no one can be the father of fourteen children, watch seven of them pass away while life is in the bud and give to the other seven a fair education without many a heavy lift, many a sleepless night and griefs which only the recording angel can note. But he had sweet compensations, too. He was blessed with a strong, resolute wife who helped him bear the adversities of life. He finished his course loved and respected. What better can life give to anyone? Written by H.A. Anderson, January 16, 1927 THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 20, 1927
MRS. BERGINE HOFF (BIRI)
Mrs. Bergine Hoff, 80, a pioneer resident of Trempealeau county, died Tuesday, June 14, 1938 at the home of her son, Fred Hoff, at Pigeon Falls following a paralytic stroke the previous Wednesday. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. E. B. Christopehrsen on Thursday from the home and from the Pigeon Falls Lutheran church with burial in the church cemetery. Mrs. Hoff was born in Biri, Norway, January 5, 1858 and came to America with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Steig, pioneer residents of Steig�s coulee, settling on a farm in the Town of Hale, now occupied by Carl Lokken. The family crossed the ocean in a sailboat, Argonaut� and was seven weeks on the voyage. Before coming to Steig�s coulee, the family lived for a time in Halfway Creek, near Holmen. Mrs. Hoff was the youngest of eight children. She was married November 22, 1876 to Otto O. Hoff who died January 8, 1927. They homesteaded the farm now owned by Fred Hoff where Mrs. Hoff lived for the past sixty years, except for intervals spent at the homes of her children. Of a family of fourteen children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hoff, only six survive. They are Oscar, Ettrick; Hilmer, Sjuggerud coulee; Fred, Steig Coulee; Mrs. Archie Lowe, Fly Creek; Mrs. J. B. McWethy, Fargo, North Dakota and Mrs. Arthur Drangstveit, Chimney Rock. She is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 23, 1938
HAROLD HOFF (BIRI)
Harold Hoff was born in Biri Norway, September 19, 1857. His parents were Mathia and Christen Hoff. In 1887 he was united in marriage to Miss Clara Lien, who preceded him in death on November 29, 1937. They came to America in 1887 and settled in Black River Falls. After a few years they came to Tamarack, which continued to be their home until their deaths. Five children were born to this union, three of whom are living. They are Clara, Mrs. Peter Thompson of Galesville; Herman of Ettrick and Alma at home. There are ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Besides these there are two brothers and one sister left to mourn his death. Mr. Hoff passed away at an Arcadia hospital December 1, 1940, where he had been a patient for seven weeks. Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 4, at the Tamarack Lutheran church, the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. Flowers were carried by two granddaughters, Florence Thompson and Mrs. Frank Franz. Pallbearers were George Lund, Alfred Gilbertson, Haldan Olson, Julius Nilsestuen, Ed Anderson and Alfred Amundson. Mrs. Roy Christianson sang, �Safe in the Arms of Jesus.� THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 12, 1940
HANS L. HOGANSON (NORWAY)
Hans L. Hoganson, who was well known in this city, died at his home in Tioga, January 31, 1921. Having been ailing for some time, he went to the Eau Claire hospital where an operation was performed for cancer of the stomach. Seemingly he had never fully recovered from the operation and had been gradually failing. Deceased was born in Norway, September 28, 1879, being 41 years and 4 months of age at the time of his death. He came to America when but a child and later came to Neillsville. Here he was married to Otelia Toraason September 3, 1904. To them were born two children, a boy and a girl. He leaves besides his wife and two children, four sisters and two brothers, namely: Mrs. L.F. Waggoner, Mrs. J.A. Barney, Mrs. P.W. Jostad, Mrs. M. Cowles, John L. Hoganson and Albert Hoganson. Hans Hoganson was an honest and industrious man, always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a kind husband and father, well liked by all who knew him, Funeral services were held at the Norwegian Lutheran church at Blair, Wisconsin, February 5, Rev. S.S. Urberg and Rev. A.J. Boe officiating. Six of his brothers-in-law acted as pallbearers. Some of his Neillsville friends attended the funeral and it may be said that he will be mourned and missed by all his acquaintances. Reprinted from the Neillsville Times. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 24, 1921
MRS. HAROLD HOFF (BIRI)
Mrs. Harold Hoff of Tamarack died suddenly at her home Wednesday, November 29. Funeral services were held at the Tamarack Lutheran church the following Saturday. Pallbearers at the last rites were Oscar Olson, George Lund, Alfred Gilbertson, Haldan Olson Julius Nelsestuen, and John Lund and flower girls were two granddaughters, Myrtle Hoff and Florence Thompson. Clara Lien Hoff was born n Biri, Norway, June 6, 1863. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. At the age of 22 she came to America to Black River Falls where she was united in marriage to Harold Hoff. The young couple immediately settled on a farm in Norway Valley, Town of Arcadia, which remained their home except for five years when they resided at Black River Falls. Five children were born to this union, two of whom preceded their mother in death, Nora and Alfred. The three surviving children are Mrs. Peter Thompson of Galesville; Herman Hoff of Ettrick and Alma at home. Besides the children and her husband, deceased is survived by six brothers and sisters, Johannes, Tina and Christina of Norway, Teoline and Anton of Strum and Bernt of Withee. There are ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Layton Thompson, from whom she received as a last gift a beautiful spray of flowers which was pinned to her shroud. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 14, 1939
CHRISTIAN C. HOFF (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Died, Thursday evening, May 27, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Elmer Back, Christian C. Hoff answered the final call after a lingering illness with cancer of the stomach, aged 62 years, 2 months, 24 days. Christian Hoff was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, where he spent his earlier years and came to America when a young man. For some years he worked near LaCrosse where he married and then came to Trempealeau county where he purchased a farm in the Town of Chimney Rock on which he made his home until death called him. Mr. Hoff had been in failing health for a year or more and last November his suffering became so intense he was obliged to give up work. An examination found the trouble to be cancer of the stomach of too long a growth to allow an operation. May 22 he was brought to his daughter�s home near the village as he wished to attend church services the following day and remained there until the end. His wife preceded him to the Great Beyond several years ago, also one daughter, Mrs. Anna Taplin. Eight children, Fred, Albert, Oscar, Clarence, Mrs. James Back, Mrs. Elmer Back, Mrs. Myron Wisand and Miss Tillie Hoff, are left to mourn the loss of a loving father. The funeral was held Monday from the Lutheran church in the village Rev. Urberg of Blair officiating, and the remains were interred in the Lutheran cemetery south of the village. The large concourse of friends who attended the last service showed the esteem in which he was held by those with whom he resided. Reprinted from the Independence News THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JUNE 10, 1915
ANDREW ANDERSON HOGDEN (VARDAL)
Andrew Anderson Hogden was born in Vardal, Norway, December 28, 1838, and came to America in 1856, settling on a homestead in the French Creek valley, where he lived until his death. Deceased leaves a wife, three daughters and two sons, as follows: Mrs. Sophie Imbleau of Chisholm, Minnesota; Mrs. Oluf Husmoen of Abercrombie, North Dakota; Mrs. Theodore Erickson of Whitehall; Peter Hogden of Ypsilanti, North Dakota and Lauriz Hogden, who resides with his family and mother on the homestead in the Town of Ettrick. He also leaves two brothers, P. Hogden of French Creek valley. Deceased was one of the oldest settlers in French creek valley, and one of the first six who organized the Synod Lutheran church in that valley, whose congregation laid him to rest. Mr. Hogden was a faithful church member, and up to the very last maintained his honesty and good fellowship. He was also a good husband and kind and indulgent father and will be greatly missed not only by the members of his family but by the whole community in which he continuously resided for so many years. The funeral was largely attended. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MAY 5, 1910
GUBJOR SMEDHAUGEN HOGDEN (LAND)
Mrs. Andrew Hogden passed away at the Whitehall hospital on Monday, November 5, 1928, following an operation for gallstones. The deceased was born in Land, Norway, October 3, 1857. When only one year of age, she came to America with her father and brother. Her girlhood days were spent mostly in the French Creek country. She was united in marriage to Andrew J. Hogden on June 11, 1876. Eleven children were born to bless this union. Four of the children passed away in infancy. Those living to mourn the loss of a kind mother are: Albert of Ettrick; Gilbert, Mrs. H.P. Ofsdahl and Neal of French Creek; Mrs. J.P. Nelsestuen of Minneapolis; Mrs. Harold Hanson of South Beaver Creek and Cornell, residing on the home farm. She also leaves three sisters, Mrs. A.A. Linderud of Long Prairie, Minnesota; Mrs. P.O. Scow of St. Paul, Minnesota; and Mr. Andrew Michaelson of Ettrick. There are 16 grandchildren. On June 11, 1926, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Hogden celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary, at which time many relatives and friends gathered at the Hogden home. The several years found Mrs. Hogden not in the best of health. Medical skill could do little for her. She was a pioneer of the French Creek country, and was always loved by her neighbors. Her work for the church was always well done and will have to be carried on by those remaining. She will be sadly missed in her home. Funeral services were held on Thursday. Interment was made in the French Creek cemetery. Rev. N.E. Halvorsen gave a very impressive talk. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 15, 1928
ANNA A. HOGDEN (VARDAHL)
Mrs. Anna A. Hogden, old pioneer of the French Creek country passed away at the home of her son Louis A. Hogden, Tuesday, June 16th from an attack of pneumonia. Mrs. Hogden was one of the old landmarks of French Creek, having lived there more than sixty years. The deceased was born in Vardahl, Norway, October 30 1842. When a young lady, she came to America and immediately after her arrival here she was united in marriage to Andrew A. Hogden, a widower. Mr. and Mr. Hogden never left the old homestead. Mrs. Hogden as well as her husband who preceded her in death several years ago were strong Lutherans. They were good citizens and did much to the advancement of the French Creek country in general. The children and step-children left by the deceased are: Mrs. Sophia Christianson, Hibbing, Minnesota; Mrs. Olaf Husmoen, Abercrombe, North Dakota; Mrs. Minnie Erickson, Whitehall; Peter A. Hogden ,Ypsilanti, North Dakota and L. A. Hogden on the home farm. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon. Interment will be made in the French creek cemetery with Rev. C.B. Bestul officiating. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - JUNE 19, 1925
MRS. LEWIS HOGDEN (BIRI)
Mrs. Lewis Hogden, 52, of Ettrick died at her home Friday night after a brief illness. She was born in Biri, Norway September 29, 1879 and came to this country when she was 1 � years old. The family settled in LaCrosse and later lived for a short time in Hanson, Wood County, Wisconsin. In 1891 they moved to Ettrick. Anna Lillehagen was married to Lewis Hogden at Cooperstown, North Dakota on June 20, 1900, and the young couple resided there for 8 � years after which they moved to Ettrick which was her home until her death. She is survived by her husband, seven children: Alvin, Leslie, Arthur Hogden of LaCrosse; Mrs. Melvin Lindquist, Mrs. Alfred Lien of Ettrick; Mrs. Sam Holstad of Blair and Mrs. William Stenberg of LaCrosse; two sisters, Mrs. Alma Moen of Blair and Mrs. Linda Moen of Ettrick; one brother, John Lillehagen of Ettrick and 16 grandchildren. She was always a kind and loving wife and mother and will be greatly missed by her relatives and friends. Funeral services were held from the home and the French Creek Lutheran Church, Monday, February 2 with the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. The floral and memorial offerings were many. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 5, 1942
MRS. JOHN HOHEIM (ULVIK, HARDANGER)
Funeral services were held Monday afternoon for Mrs. John Hoheim, 86, North Beaver Creek, who died at the home of her son, Lars Hoheim Thursday morning, May 26, 1938, following an illness of eight years duration. For the past four years, Mrs. Hoheim has been confined to her bed. As brita Kvale she Was born in Ulvik, Hardanger, Norway, February 23, 1852, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tollef Kvale. She was united in marriage to John Hoheim in the town of her birth in 1879. In 1904 the family came to America settling first at Rushford, Minnesota where they remained for seven years, then moving to Isabel, South Dakota. In 1917 they came to the Town of Ettrick, where they engaged in farming in the North Beaver Creek valley. She is survived by three sons, John of Tacoma, Washington; Tollef of Molalla, Oregon and Lars of the Town of Franklin; a daughter, Mrs. Carl Moen of Joe Coulee and 9 grandchildren. Her husband died April 6, 1927 and a daughter, Mrs. Henry Alm of Winona passed away in 1930. A brother and three sisters in Norway also preceded her in death. Services were held Monday at the home and at the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the cemetery adjoining the church. Pallbearers were Joseph Johnson, John Johnson, Arthur Johnson, Theodore B. Johnson, Ernest Arneson and William Henderson. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 2, 1938
LARS HOHEIM (ULVIK, HARDANGER)
Lars Hoheim, 75, rural Ettrick, died late Friday evening (August 25, 1967) at the Tri-County Memorial Hospital in Whitehall after a brief illness. He was born December 3, 1891 in Hardanger, Norway to John and Breta Kvale Hoheim and came to America in 1904. He lived in South Dakota until 1927, when he came to Wisconsin. He married Emma Moen in 1928 and they farmed in the Ettrick area until their retirement. Serving in the United State Navy, he was a veteran of World War I. Survivors are his wife; two daughters, Mrs. Truman (Elsie) Everson, Westby, and Mrs. Keith (JoAnn) Briggs, Onalaska; seven grandchildren and one sister, Mrs. Carl (Madli) Moen, Whitehall. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 pm. at North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Arrangements were by the Frederixon-Jack Funeral Home. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Ernest Arneson, Hans Morken, Basil Finch, Ronald and Leland Torkelson and Odell Flaaten. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 3, 1967
ERICK HOLEN (NORWAY)
Erick Holen died at his home in Blair on Thursday, August 3 and was buried Saturday August 5, the funeral services being conducted by Revs. Boe and Urberg. Deceased came from Norway in 1864 and settled in Welch Coulee, where he farmed for a number of years, moving to Blair about 30 years ago where he has since made his home. He would have been 88 years of age October 30. He is survived by his wife, who will be 90 years of age next February. All other relatives are living in Norway. Mr. Holen was among our oldest settlers and a man respected by all. The wife has the sympathy of all. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 10, 1916
JOHANNES O. HOLMEN (GAUSDAL)
Johannes O. Holmen died Christmas morning at 6 o�clock at the good ripe age of almost 88 years. Johannes O. Holmen was born in Gausdal, Norway, January 12, 1839, where he grew to manhood. He only had a limited common schooling in use in those early days. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. The 22nd day of June 1865, he was married to Miss Sina Solberg and this union was blessed with eleven children. Four died in infancy and one son, Peter, died in 1913 in the prime of life. In 1866, the young couple emigrated to this country to better their financial status, and made a temporary home in Coon Valley, Vernon county. In 1870, they moved to Trempealeau county and the next year homesteaded a quarter of land in section 14 in the east township of Hale, where they have lived ever since. Volumes have been written in late years about the hardships and privations of the early settlers, so the writer will not go into details about that. The early strife of this family was not much different from the rest of us. We were all poor as church rats, but full of life and happy, always looking ahead for a better future. There is one big credit due Mr. Holmen, he was able to hold onto the land and keep the family together, and that counts big. In 1912 his good wife died and shortly after ward he sold the farm to his son, Rudolph, but had his home there with him until his death. He was a man of very cheerful disposition, always seeing the sunny side of life, and it was quite a treat to have a friendly chat with him. In spite of his limited schooling, his intelligence in a good many lines was really above the average. He kept well posted on political and religious matter, and was not afraid to tell any body his views. He was upright and strictly honest in his dealings. His word was as good as his bond. He was to all appearance a good Christian. At this home in Norway, he came in close touch with layman preachers, commonly called Haugeaners, and when he settled here he was one of the charter members, who in 1872, organized what is today our South Valley congregation, and has been an active member of this church, and will be sorely missed by all its members. As an example of his devotion to church, it may be stated that shortly before his death, he expressed the wish to give $200 to the mission. He was possessed of a robust health and his mental faculties were good to the end. He partook of the supper Christmas Eve and talked as usual, but toward morning became sick and died within a couple of hours. There will be an empty place in the Holmen family and the sympathy of the whole neighborhood goes out to them. Gone, but not forgotten. The funeral was held from the house Thursday, December 30, conducted by Rev. Aune. He was laid to rest in the Lewis cemetery beside his wife. The funeral was largely attended and the floral offerings were very beautiful and elaborate. He leaves behind to mourn his demise, his son Rudolph at home; Ole Holmen of Whitehall; Clara Skorstad of Whitehall; Sophia, Mrs. A.P. Hepburn and Mollie, Mrs. J.A. Hepburn, both of Battleford, Sask., Canada and Julia, Mrs. Peterson of Blair and nine grandchildren. Written by A.N. Freng THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 6, 1927
MRS. SENA HOLMEN (GULDBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Sena J. Holmen was born August 5, 1842, in Guldbrandsdalen, Norway. After a few years her parents moved to Lilliehammer, Norway. On the 22nd of June 1865, she was married to John Holmen. The year after they came to America and settled in Vernon County, this state, where they lived for four years. From there they moved to Trempealeau County in the Town of Hale, where the deceased resided until her death. The last few years Mrs. Holmen had been poorly. A few weeks before her death, she had an attack of pneumonia, but she rallied again, and was so well that she could be up and around. On Saturday morning September 21, 1912, at about 8 o�clock, she was suddenly called away without a moment�s warning. This time it was paralysis of the heart. She was buried on Thursday, September 26th. The funeral service was held at the home, Rev. J. G. Hjelmerwick officiating. The remains were laid to rest in the old Elk Creek cemetery on the Solberg farm. Mrs. Holmen was of a quiet nature, and always devoted to her home and family, where she will be greatly missed. She leaves a beloved husband and seven children to mourn the loss of a dear wife and mother. Four children have gone before her. The children living are Rudolph and Peter, who are at home; Ole at Pigeon Falls; Mrs. Peter Skorstad near home; Mrs. A. B. Peterson at Blair; Mrs. A.P. Hepburn and Mrs. J.A. Hepburn at North Battleford, Sask. Canada. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - OCTOBER 10, 1912
MRS. OLE J. HOLM (LOITEN, HEDMARKEN)
Mrs. Ole Holm was born January 29, 1849, at Loiten, Hedmarken, Norway. She came to Onalaska, LaCrosse County, Wisconsin in 1874 with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mickkel Weverstad and was married on the 12th of April 1875 to Ole Holm at the Halfway Creek church, Rev. Vollert Frick officiating. Mr. and Mrs. Holm made their home in Onalaska for eight years and then moved onto the farm in Halfway where she has since lived. Mrs. Lisabet Holm passed away at her home Sunday evening, March 4, 1923, at 10:50 o�clock following a lingering illness. She leaves to mourn her death her husband, two daughters Mrs. John Engass and Mrs. Emil Knudson of Holmen; one brother, Lars Weverstad of Whitehall; one sister, Mrs. L.C. Holm of LaCrosse; four grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. She had one brother, Nicholai Weverstad, who died a year ago; one sister, Mrs. Peter Simonson of Whitehall, died in 1919 and one sister, Mrs. Haroldson, who died in Norway. The funeral was held on Thursday, March 8, at 1 o�clock from the residence and at 2 o�clock from the Halfway Lutheran church. Interment made in the Halfway cemetery. Rev. Berrum officiated and Undertaker A. O. Jostad was in charge. The pallbearers were John Gregseth, Oluf Snuggerud, John Berg, Carl Olson, Nils Horsrud and Franz Steenberg. Reprinted from the Holmen Record THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - MARCH 22, 1923
THEODORE HOLMEN (HYVICK)
Theodore P. Holmen, Osseo, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Eddie Hong, Saturday, February 4, at the age of 76 years, 11 months and 22 days, following a second stroke of paralysis. Funeral services were held at the Hong residence and the Elk Creek church February 8, the Rev. N. E. Halvorsen officiating. Miss Tilla Martinson, a granddaughter of the deceased, sang the song, �In Heaven Above� and the church choir sang �A Slumber I Know� and �Come Lord Thyself With Thine Abounding Grace.� Several memorials were given to missions and charitable institutions. Mr. Holmen, son of Peder and Helene Holmen was born in Hyvick, Norway, February 13, 1862. In 1867 he came to America with his parents, settling with them on a farm in LaCrosse county, where they lived a year before purchasing a farm in the Town of Hale, Trempealeau County. Here Theodore grew to manhood. On May 13, 1886, he was united in marriage with Anna Amundson,. In May 1892, the young couple moved to Osseo, residing there seven years and then moving back to the farm. In 1922 they purchased a house at Osseo, where they lived until Mr. Holmen�s health was impaired by a stroke on April 6, 1937. Since that time he and his wife had made their home with their children. Surviving the deceased are his wife and five children, Palmer Holmen of Hale; Alvin of Osseo; Harry of North Branch; Tena, Mrs. Eddie Hong and Julia, Mrs. Edwin Martinson, both of Osseo, There are 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and two have preceded him in death. Mr. Holmen was a member of a large family. Going before him besides his parents have been Hannah, his twin sister, Mrs. Caroline Maug; Gilbert Pederson, Peder, Matt and John. A sister and two brothers survive, Emma, Mrs. Chris Vold of Osseo, Charles of Humbird and Hans of Osseo. Pallbearers at the funeral were Gunder, Edwin, Chester and Melvin H. Holmen and Anton Vold and flowers were carried by Tilla Martinson, Fay May Holmen, Floyd Holmen, Truman Hong and Curtis Hong. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 16, 1939
PETER TORSON HOLMAN (N. GJASTVANG)
The death of Peder Torson Holman occurred at the home of his son T.P. in Hale August 14, 1910. Deceased was born April 19, 1826 at Nedre Gjastvang, Norway. He came to America in 1867, spending two years at LaCrosse, then came to Trempealeau county,where he resided until his death.In 1850 he married Nellina G. Bekkehum, 14 children blessing the union, five of which are dead. His wife died in 1887. The living are seven boys and two girls, as follows: T.P. and Hans of Hale;Peter and John of Price; Charles of Fairchild; Gilbert of Unity; Mat of independence; Mrs. Hans Maug of Hale and Mrs.C. Walden of Sumner. All the children were present at the funeral, which was held on the 17th at the Lutheran church in the above township, Rev. Falkesstad of Strum officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - AUGUST 25, 1910
MRS. THORSTEIN HOLSTAD (HEDMARK)
Mathea Pederson Halberget was born in Hedmarken, Norway, February 9, 1851. She came to America with her parents in 1877 and stayed in Coon Valley a short while later moving to Chimney Rock. In 876 she was united in marriage to Thorstein Holstad and lived at the Martin Halvorson farm in Roskos Valley for a few years until they moved to the farm occupied by Melvin Holstad, that has been her home for over 50 years. Mrs. Holstad was the mother of eight children, of whom six preceded her in death. Her husband, Mr. Holstad, died in 1900 and since that time, Mrs. Holstad has made her home with her son, Melvin. Mrs. Holstad was in poor health for a number of years and passed away July 25th, 1933, at the age of 82 years. She leaves to mourn her death her son, Melvin and one daughter, Mrs. Morris Gunderson, 18 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. The funeral took place from the Chimney Rock church last Saturday, July 29, where neighbors and friends, had gathered to bid the last farewell. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - AUGUST 3, 1933
SEVERINE MATHSON HOLTE (SWEDEN)
Severine Linderud was born in Sweden, May 23, 1841. She came with her parents to this country in 1853, who located at Stoughton, Wisconsin. Six years later in 1859 her father took homestead land in Vosse Coulee, Trempealeau County, where she lived until her death. In the year 1861, she was united in marriage to Halver Mathson Holte. To this union was born 12 children, eleven of whom are still living. They are Martin Mathson and Mrs. G. O. Nelson, both of Blair, Wisconsin, A.H. Mathson of Whitehall, Wisconsin, Charley Mathson of Seattle, Washington; Henry Mathson of Northern Minnesota; Mrs. R. Sadler of Groten, South Dakota; Julia Mathson and Gilbert Mathson of Blair. Mr. Holte died in 1908. Since that time Mrs. Holte has lived on the old homestead. At the time of her death July 5th, 1921, she had lived there for over 60 years. Mrs. Severine Mathson Holte reached a ripe old age. Her life was that of a true Christian and many follow her example. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 14. 1921
MRS. RASMUS HORN (NORTHFJORD)
Mrs. Rasmus Horn died at the Horn homestead in North Beaver Creek, Jackson County, Wisconsin, Tuesday evening, January 16, 1923, after an illness dating since last September. Mrs. Horn has resided with her son, Oscar Horn, on the old homestead since the death of her husband, Rasmus Horn, which occurred in 1911. Anna Barlow was a native of Northfjord, Norway, and at the time of her death was in the neighborhood of eighty years of age. Her marriage to Rasmus Horn took place in Norway, 52 years ago. The family came to the United State 46 years ago, locating on the Horn homestead in North Beaver Creek, where they have continuously resided. Nine children came to bless the union of Mr. and Mrs. Horn, three children and the father having preceded the mother to the beyond. The children surviving are: Mrs. Lein, of Milwaukee, Oregon; Mesdames Ovedia Johnson and Hannah Hudson of Minneapolis; Mrs. Charles Caves, of Melrose; Oscar Horn on the home farm; and John Horn of North Beaver Creek. Mrs. Horn was a quiet, home-loving woman, taking her greatest delight in the welfare of her children. She was a devout Christian and lived a good useful Christian life. During her late illness, the children ministered to he welfare, the daughter, Mrs. Hannah Hudson of Minneapolis and the daughter-in-law, Mrs. Oscar Horn, being especially attentive to her, The funeral services were held at the home on Friday, January 19, 1923, and burial took place in the family lot in the North Beaver Creek cemetery. There was a large attendance of relatives, old neighbors and friends at the services, which were conducted by Rev. Urberg of Blair, Wisconsin. The family and friends of the deceased feel grateful to the numerous relatives and friends who offered sympathy, assisted with the song service and contributed the many beautiful floral offerings. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - JANUARY 26, 1923
MRS. MATHIAS HOLTE (LILLEHAMMER)
Mrs. Wilhelmina Rye Holte died at her farm home near Strum Tuesday evening, September 29, aged 75 years and 25 days, after a long illness. Funeral services were held October 3 at 1:30 at the house and two p.m. at the West Beef River Lutheran church, the Rev. N.A. Berntson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Wilhelmina Rye was born on September 4, 1861 in Lillehammer, Norway to Jacob Rye and Helena Amundson. She came to America at the age of five years. Her earliest years were spent in LaCrosse County, then as a young woman, she worked in Eau Claire. On April 8 1884, Miss Rye was married to Mathias Holte. Of the six children born to them, two died in infancy. For ten years they lived south of Strum, after which they moved to the present farm, where Mr. Holte died twelve years after on September 2, 1906. The widow continued to make the place her home until her death 30 years later. Survivors are four children namely, Hilda, Mrs. Hilmer Hoff of Whitehall; Dora, Mrs. Palmer Christianson of Strum; Julia, at home and Markus of Strum. An adopted son, John Stone of Columbia, Montana also survives. Also surviving is a sister, Mrs. Ole Mjede of Eau Claire and a brother, Adolph Rye of the same city. There are 11 grandchildren. Preceding the deceased in death besides her husband and two children were two sisters, Julia and Mrs Olaus Lien and a brother, Andrew Rye. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 15, 1936
MRS. SOPHIA HORN (BERGEN)
Mrs. Sophia Horn, 79, died last Monday at a LaCrosse Hospital, where she had been a patient five weeks. She had been in failing health for three months. Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m. at the First Lutheran church, North Beaver Creek, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the Trempealeau Valley cemetery. Mrs. Horn, the former Sophie Barlow, was born April 15, 1878, in Bergen, Norway, the daughter of Mrs. And Mrs. Knute Barlow. She came to the United States alone at the age of 14 to live with relatives in Franklin Township. She married John Horn at the age of 18, and the couple farmed in the area. Following her husband�s death in March 1941, Mrs. Horn made her home with her son Alvin also of the Town of Franklin. She is survived by six sons: Roy, Minneapolis; Alvin and Oscar, Town of Franklin; Knute, North Bend; Joseph, Blair; and Edward, Lancaster, California; two daughters, Mrs. Ernest Tuff, Coon Valley and Mrs. Donald Kinney, Lancaster, California; 30 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; two sister, Mrs. Iver Johnson Rochester, Minnesota and Mrs. Samuel Johnson, State of Washington. A brother Peter, Rochester, Minnesota and a sister, Olga Barlow, Tonopah, Nevada, preceded Mrs. Horn in death within the past two years. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 25, 1957
TOM L. HOLVEN (GRANVIN, HARDANGER)
Funeral services were held Saturday for Tom L. Holven, 72, who died suddenly of a heart attack at his home in Ettrick Tuesday. He was born in Hardanger, Norway, September 16, 1864, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lars Holven. At the age of four, he came with his parents to America, the family settling on a farm in Washington Coulee. June 22, 1895 he was united in marriage to Anna Twesme. In 1822 the couple moved into the village of Ettrick to make their home. He is survived by his wife; a sister, Mrs. Carl Eide of Beach, North Dakota; a son, Lawrence, who operates the home farm; two daughters, Mrs. Gullick Myrland of North Beaver Creek and Mrs. Merle Lynn of LaCrosse and three grandchildren. A twin sister, Belle, died in 1891 and three brothers preceded him in death. Services were held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the house and at 2 o�clock at the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the North Beaver Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 1, 1937
MRS. JULIA HORNSLEIN (LILLEHAMMER)
Death came to Mrs. Julia Hornslein last Monday evening as she was driving to the home of her daughter to enjoy Christmas Eve and the holiday period with her grandchildren. Mrs. Hornslein left her home in Galesville Monday afternoon, her son-in-law Claude Hare, and family calling for her with a car. Near the McClary hill, one of the packages fell into the road. When the car was stopped, Mrs. Hornslein got out to recover it. She had taken, but a few steps when she was seized with a hemorrhage. By this time the car was backed to where she had halted. She did not speak and a moment later life was extinct. The body was taken to the home of Barney Deeren nearby and later in the evening brought to her home in Galesville. Julia Nelson Sagen was born in Lillehammer, Norway, September 6, 1863. She came with her parents to America at the age of three years, the family settling near Galesville. She attended the Galesville schools and was one of the first graduates. Later she taught in the rural schools of the county. She was married May 17, 1885, to Andrew Hornslein, who died six years ago. She is survived by two children: Mrs. Claude Hare of Gale, and Neil Hornslein of Ettrick. There are three brothers: O.N. Sagen of Galesville, Chris Sagen of Eau Claire, and Sever Sagen of Onalaska. There are also two sisters, Mrs. Otto Pederson and Mrs. John Swenson of Ettrick. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 3, 1918
MRS. ANDREW HOLTE (RINDALEN)
Gjertrud Stomprud Ofstad was born in Rindalen, Norway, January 7, 1857. Her parents were Ole Larson Stomprud and wife, Anne Rommundstad. In the year of 1886, she was united in marriage to Ole Ofstad. To this union four children were born, Gjeryrud and Bertha both died in childhood and Annie, Mrs. Obert Olson and Olaf Ole Ofstad died December 25, 1895. In the year of 1901, she immigrated to America where she met Andrew Holte and they were united in marriage in December, 1907. Andrew Holte died December 15, 1928. Gjertrud Holte died December 19, 1932. She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Lars Rone of Strum; two brothers, Lars Stomprud of Stum and Ole Stomprud of Duluth, Minnesota; and five grandchildren. She died at the age of 75 years, 11 months and 12 days. The funeral services were held at the St. Paul�s church, Rev. O.A. Hjemboe officiating. Interment was made in the St. Paul�s cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 12, 1933
KATHERINE HOUGEN (ULVIK, HARDANGER)
Katherine Hougen, an old and respected resident of Northfield, Jackson County, was called away by death at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A.O. Ronnes, August 30, 1931. She was born August 31, 1853 in Ulvik, Hardanger, Norway of Knut and Katherine Hagestad. Together with her parents, she came to America when she was seven months old in 1853. The Hagestad family settled in Beaver Creek Valley, Trempealeau County, where Miss Hagestad lived until she married Halvor Hougen July 2, 1876, and with him established a home in the town of Northfield, Jackson County. A family of seven chidren were raised, two of whom together with her husband, preceded her in death. Her daughter, Mrs. Clara Krogsbol, died in 1898, her husband in 1910, and another daughter, Mrs. Katherine Rihs in 1920. Mrs. Hougen was a sister of Hon. K.K.Hagestad who served in the state assembly as representative from Trempealeau County many years ago. At her death, she is survived by the following children: Ida, Mrs. A. Ronnes; Petra, Mrs. O. Larson; Olaf; Ella, Mrs. S. Hamuelson and Knut. She is also survived by 32 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. The funeral was held from the Upper Pigeon church of which congregation she has been a member over 50 years, September 2nd, Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 17, 1931
GUNDER HOUKOM (KVITESEID, TELEMARK)
The whole community was shocked in hearing of the sudden death of Gunder Houkom on the 27th of October, 1920. Mr. Houkom seemed to be in the best of health. Even on the morning before his death, he was in Blair doing his customary shopping. Upon arriving home the same day, he went into the house and sat down just as the family were sitting down to the dinner table. He was asked if he wished to eat, to which he answered: �No.�. In a few minutes, he fell back dead. Mr. Houkom was a valuable asset to our community. He widely known for his honesty, fairness and his progressiveness. He was, in his quiet and unassuming way, always found on the right and fair side of any question that might benefit the community as a whole. He never stopped to figure out his own personal gain, but figured constantly the gain that might be derived for the growing generation. He was exemplary in habits and character, and one always felt while in his presence that you stood face to face with a man. Mr. Houkom has always been a member of the Trempealeau Valley U.N. Lutheran congregation. He was looked upon by all as a man who stood firmly upon the true Gospel as it is revealed to us through the Bible. Rain or shine, he was always found in church whether it might be the regular services, young people�s meetings or business meetings. His judgment was always relied upon as sound and reasonable. He had an implicit faith in God and in the position of the church in this world. Gunder Houkom was born in Kviteseid, Telemarken, Norway January 31, 1848. In 1870 he came with his parents to this country and settled in the Trempealeau Valley. December 30, 1876 he was married to Thorbior Olson. Their lives were blessed with eight children, all of whom are living: Louise at Spokane, Washington; Stephen at Blair; Nettie at Winona, Minnesota; Tena at Blair; Alma at Bozeman, Montana; Lawrence, Omer and Bernette at Blair. He had three sisters and one brother living: John Houkom Blair, Mrs. Paul Hanson of Taylor; Mrs. Anna Hanson of Whalen Minnesota, Mrs. Birgit Houkom of Ryder, North Dakota, and Mrs. Tom Thompson of Elbow Lake, Minnesota. The body was laid to rest in the Trempealeau Valley cemetery on Monday, November 1st. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 11, 1920
MRS. THORBOR HOUKOM (FORSDAL, TELEMARKEN)
An aged resident has passed from among us, one who witnessed with her eyes the panorama of community life from early pioneer days to the present. Mrs. Thorbor Olson Houkom was born in Forsdal, Telemarken, Norway, March 39, 1853. There midst deep valleys and towering mountains, in scenes to awaken the inspiration of poets, her earliest years were spent. Then at the age of 8, with her parents Leif and Gertrude Olson, began the long trek to America which consumed weeks of time on the slow going and cramped sailing vessels of the day. The family came to Trempealeau County in the strife and tumult of the Civil War. Life under primitive conditions and with war clouds hovering overhead was not pleasant but the pioneers were of sturdy stock and no trials could quench the fire of their unfaltering hope. Mrs. Houkom lived through three financial depressions, the trying times of 73 and 93 and the present and she saw the first two give way to prosperous times in the fortune favored America as no doubt will take place with the third. She was confirmed in the first class to be confirmed in the Trempealeau Valley church built by the faith, love and sturdy hands of the early settlers. On December 30th, 1876 she was united in marriage to Gunder S. Houkom who preceded her in death 13 years ago. In the pleasant home on Highway 95, three miles east of Blair, eight children came to bless their union to grow up to manhood and womanhood and take their useful places in the world. In quietness and peace her last years were spent amid the tender ministrations of her children. At last the feeble tenement of clay gave way and her soul departed on its journey to a greater and fairer Land of Promise, Mrs. Houkom died at her home May 22, 1933, aged 80 years, 1 month and 22 days. The following children are left to mourn the loss of a beloved mother: Mrs. Louisa Duncan, Spokane, Washington; Mrs. Alma K. Krause of Bozeman, Montana; Stephen, Nettie and Lawrence of Blair; Tena of Beloit; Omer of Green Bay; Bernette of St. Paul. Mrs. Houkom was a quiet unassuming soul whose modesty and kindness adorned her whole walk among men, a faithful worker whose toil worn hands were her badge of honor, a devoted mother whose memory will ever be cherished in the affections of her children, a humble Christian whose hope was in the merits of Jesus Christ. Funeral services were held at the home and the Trempealeau Valley church conducted by Rev. T. E. Sweger, Thursday afternoon May 25th. Vocal solos were sung by Mrs. A.N Garson and Mrs. Angus Sather. Memory wreaths were given to Home Missions and Home for the Aged by the Ladies Aid and the Riverside Community club respectively. Flower girls were: Miss Tillie Sylfest, Miss Marie Nerison, Mrs. Alden Smith, and Mrs. Olaus Tappen. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 1, 1933
MRS. NELS HOUKHOM (VARDALE)
Anna Wangen was born in Vardale, Norway September 16, 1834 and died February 8, 1924, after being confined to her bed for eight years. In 1860 she was united in marriage to Nels Houkhom at Onalaska, Wisconsin. They lived in Neillsville, Wisconsin four years, and in 1864, they moved to Blair where she has resided ever since up to the time of her death. Mr. Houkhom preceded her to the grave 18 year ago. To this union were born eleven children, seven girls and four boys. Four children have also preceded her to the grave. She left to mourn her death seven children, 23 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. The children living are: Mrs. S. J. Leasum at Milwaukee; Mrs. Sever Johnson at Loyal; Mrs. O.C. Hanson at Neillsville; Mrs. Oscar Nyen, Mrs. Albert Solberg, Charley and Henry Houkhom at Blair. In the passing of Mrs. Nels Houhkhom, this community has lost one of its oldest residents. For sixty years she made her home upon the farm where she died. When we think back these sixty years and compare conditions as they were then to what they are now, we see the marvelous changes time has made. Coming with her husband to this vicinity in the midst of the Civil War, conditions were even more disturbed than during and after the late World War. Produce sold for even less, comparatively, than in 1920-21. Besides, these valleys and hills which today constitute the garden spot of the Northwest were then all covered with brush and trees, and lowlands were nothing but cold swamps. There was not even a railroad to help market their produce or keep them in touch with the outside world. But they toiled and struggled until little by little, this vicinity became know far and wide as a desirable place for the early settlers At the time Mrs. Houkhom came here, there was no church in the vicinity, but even seven years before a congregation had been organized. They met in homes, farm buildings and other places that might be convenient. Not until 1867 was the first church built - the Trempealeau Valley church - which still stands today, four miles east of Blair. This old church stands as a monument to the highest ideals of these early settlers. Mrs. Houkhom was an early member of this congregation. She and her husband were known far and wide as some of the staunchest citizens as well as church members. These high ideals they carried with them throughout life, both in sorrow and in joy. It was this same Christian spirit which gave her such courage and patience during the last years of her life, when she was forced through sickness to be eight years upon her bed. She was always cheerful and happy in spite of her suffering, always waiting patiently for the day when she would reach �home.� She was given the best and kindest of care by her daughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Solberg. In the life of Mrs. Houkhum, this community has been given the highest type of motherhood, citizenship and Christianity. Funeral services were held Sunday, February 10, at the Zion Lutheran Church, Rev. Boe officiating, and the body was laid to rest in the cemetery there. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 14, 1924
JOHN S. HOUKOM (KRITESEID, TELEMARKEN)
At his home in this village, where he had spent 35 years of his life, John Houkom peacefully departed from life Thursday, April 23, 1925, aged 80 years and 9 months. Deceased was born in Kriteseid, Telemarken, Norway, July 23, 1844. With his parents he came to America in 1870 and settled in the Trempealeau Valley. He was married May 4, 1882 to Martha Tenneson. To this union six children were born, five dying in infancy. One daughter, Julia, of Seattle, Washington, survives. Mr. and Mrs. Houkom resided on a farm until 1890 when they moved to Blair. Besides his wife and daughter, four sisters - Mrs. Paul Hanson of Taylor; Mrs. Anna Hanson of Walen, Minnesota; Mrs. Birgit Houkom of Ryder, North Dakota; and Mrs. Tom Thompson of Elbow Lake, Minnesota are left to mourn his untimely death. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Zion Church, Rev. Sweger officiating. The remains were laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 30, 1925
JOHN A. HOUKOM (NORWAY)
John A. Houkom was born in Norway, September 22, 1874, came to LaCrosse County with his parents, brothers and sisters in the early eighties. From there they moved to Town of Northfield, Jackson County, where his father bought a farm in the Schermerhorn valley, which he worked for a number of years. In 1893 John moved to Pigeon Falls and shortly afterwards entered upon his life work of a creamery man in the local creamery, then operated by P. Ekern and later by P. Ekern Company. This position he filled for nearly twenty-four years and proved himself a first class butter-maker and met with well earned success. He also owned and operated a farm adjoining this village. The death which released him of much suffering came to him Tuesday, September 4, as a result of an accident sustained on August 14, when his right arm was caught in the engine at the creamery. The arm was badly lacerated and broken and the hand was amputated about a week ago. He also suffered from internal injuries. He intended to discontinue the creamery work in a few months to devote himself exclusively to his farm. He leaves to mourn his apparently untimely death his wife, formerly Miss Fredrickson of Onalaska, two children, Sylvia, 15, and Erling, 1 years of age; and two brothers, Olaf of Deronda and Ottar of Cutler; four sisters, Tea of Minneapolis, Anna of Portland, Oregon and Gunhild and Signe of Spokane, Washington. Mr. Houkom served for a number for years as chairman of the republican town committee, also on the county congressional and other committees. He never wavered as a progressive in politics and took much interest in same. He was a reserved, quiet sort of man straight and upright in everything he did and the community suffers by the loss, but especially the surviving members of the family, who have the sincere sympathy of all in their bereavement. Funeral will be held Friday afternoon. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMBER 6, 1917
JOHANNES THORSON HOVDE (BIRI)
Johannes Thorson Hovde was born in Biri, Norway, June 10, 1831. His father was a life tenant. Husemand - which means that he had the privilege of occupying a small plat of ground so long as he paid to the owner of the land an annual tribute in labor. This probably accounts for the fact that when Johannes reached the proper age, he enlisted in the standing army where he served eight years, receiving during the first three years only eight cents a day. His education was extremely meager, for at the time he went to school it was not considered necessary to teach girls nor the sons of �house-men� how to write. When he was about the age of thirty-two years, he married Ingeborg Steig and two years later, 1865, he and his wife came to U.S. Their trip across the ocean lasted fourteen weeks. For three years he stopped in LaCrosse County, working most of the time for a well-known man usually called Ole Spillemand. In 1868, in company with his father-in-law, Fredrick Steig, and his brothers-in-law, Christian and Gilbert Steig, he came to Pigeon Creek, he settling in the Town of Pigeon and the others just over the line in the Town of Hale. I well remember the pleasurable excitement occasioned by their coming for they were all strong, sturdy men, abounding in energy, love of fun and social amenities. Strong, supple bodies and a willingness to work without counting the hours were first class assets in those days. The subject of this sketch especially distinguished himself by his tireless energy. Unceasingly he toiled, building and clearing and as he had selected good land, the earth responded with bounteous crops. Then came the hard, lean years of the seventies when dressed pork sold for two cents a pound, eggs for six to eight cents a dozen and butter often for twelve cents a pound and other farm products in proportion. Later came the cinch bug days when splendid fields of ripening grain withered and shriveled almost in a day under the attack of the pestilential insects - when a measured bushel of wheat frequently weighed only thirty pounds of almost unsaleable grain. Money was scarce and interest rose to ruinous rates from ten to twenty-five percent. Still darker days came to this man and others. Azrail spread his black wings over the land and through the awful instrumentality of diphtheria poisoned children in nearly half of the homes in the neighborhood. Three children was the toll exacted from the Thorson family by this terrible plague. Another child was claimed by the stream that flowed by his home. But this man found his surcease from the lashings of poverty and grief in constant labor. Blessed with a health that was scarcely broken until a year or two before his death, he struggled like a Titan against odds and adversities until the age of seventy-five, he found himself financially a winner. When he turned his farm over to his son, Fred, with a glad heart feeling that he had established his son in a position of comfort and prosperity. But even in this instance cruel disappointments awaited him, for the son proved incapable of keeping what the father and mother had wrested from fortune by so many years of hard work. But even then, when partial blindness had thrown a shadow over all his surroundings, he continued work. January 30, 1913, his wife, who had worked perhaps equally hard within her sphere, passed away without a moment�s warning. Equally sudden was the ending of this pioneer toiler, for on September first his body was found was found by his son, Theodore, in the stream that for 54 years had murmured its lullabies to him as he watched it flow by his house. �Tragedy�, someone whispers. �All of life is tragedy�, another answers. Is it? Does it not depend upon the standpoint from which we look at life. Some say �Life is just what a kind and all wise Providence wills it to be.� If so, why not accept the Great Decrees in the same spirit that we watch the ripened fruit fall from the parent bough. This man suffered but he also rejoiced as he saw the forces of nature yield to his indomitable industry and perseverance. Handicapped by great odds he won, when weaker natures would have yielded to despair. Considered from the standpoint of his opportunities, he was a successful man. His funeral was conducted by Rev. Orke. He rests in the lower Church cemetery at Pigeon Falls. Two sons survive him: His son, Theodore, who is 1913 gave up a good business in North Dakota to redeem his father�s farm from impending ruin and Fred, who now lives in St. Johns, North Dakota. Written by H.A. Anderson THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTEMBER 14, 1922
OLE HOVDE (HELLINGDAL)
From Silverton, Oregon. Funeral services for Ole Hovde, well known Silverton resident, who died Tuesday were held yesterday at 2:00 from the Trinity Lutheran church. The Rev. Carl Foss, pastor of the church, delivered the sermon and Mrs. Alvin Legard was soloist. Interment was made at Valley View cemetery, with Larson and Son morticians. Mr. Hovde�s death occurred at Emanuel Hospital in Portland early on election morning, after several weeks of serious illness during which time he had suffered greatly. Mr. Hovde had sought expert medical advice in Portland for a stomach ailment of long duration. He entered Emanuel hospital several weeks ago, after going through the Bodine clinic. Later he underwent two serious operations. His recovery from the first was doubtful, although he fought valiantly for his life. Mr. Hovde was born in Hallingsdal, Norway, April 15, 1879. He came to America with his mother, Gunda Hovde, in 1901 or 1902. They first resided in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. In 1911 they moved to Silverton. Upon arriving here, Mr. Hovde purchased a small farm on the Mr. Angel Road which he still owned up to his death. He was unmarried and leaves no relatives in this country. His mother passed away here February 28, 1929. Mr. Hovde and his mother joined Trinity Lutheran church in 1912. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 8, 1932
OLAF HOVRE (NORWAY)
Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 21, for Olaf Hovre, 72 who died at his home in French Creek Sunday morning, May 18, of a complication of diseases following two years of failing health. He was born in Norway January 28, 1869, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Hovre. As an infant, he came to America with his parents, the family settling in the French Creek valley. He received his education at the Galesville University and at the Lambert Business College in Winona. He was a lifelong member of the French Creek Lutheran church. Mr. Hovre was united in marriage to Agnette Alton of Rice Lake, June 11, 1900, after which they established their home on a farm in French Creek. His wife died April 1, 1938, and two brothers and a sister also preceded him in death. Deceased is survived by a brother, Gilbert of French Creek; a sister, Mrs. Ebert Engelien, Ettrick; five children, Oliver of Galesville, Edwin, Floyd, Alfred and Ida, all of the town of Ettrick and two granddaughters, the children of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Hovre. Mr. Hovre will be remembered as an old time stock-buyer, having shipped hundreds of carloads of livestock to the Chicago markets. He served the town of Ettrick as assessor for ten years. Funeral services were held at the home and at the French Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. Burial was in the French Creek cemetery. Reprinted from the Ettrick Advance THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 29, 1941
SYVERINE HOVELSRUD (RINGSAKER)
�Finis� has been written in the history of the old Norwegian �skolelaerer� in our midst. The occupation was officially through with the death of Mrs. Syverine Hovelsrud, widow of the late John Hovelsrud. She was the last survivor of the group who made it a life�s work to act as instructor of the young in the fundamentals of Bible Truth. Syverine Hovelsrud was born in Ringsaker, Norway, on April 12, 1857 to the parents, Christian Arneson Lindberg and his wife, Karen Hagenson. She was baptized and confirmed in the Ringsaker church, and in the parish school, she received her educational instruction. When Syverine was 15 years old, the family moved to America and found a home in the early Norwegian settlement at Lewis Valley near Holmen. December 21, 1878 she was united in marriage to John E. Hovelsrud with whom she was permitted to walk through good and evil days for over half a century. The sainted Rev. Frick tied the nuptial knot. During the decades which they spent together, Mrs. Hovelsrud made a good home for her husband and their children, and was always willing to make all necessary sacrifices in order that he might carry out his high calling as �skolelaerer.� They were devoted members of the Lutheran church in North Beaver Creek, putting forth every effort they were able conscientiously to glorify God and their beloved congregation. Soon after their marriage, they resided for a time at French Creek and also at Black River Falls. It was in 1883 that they purchased the farm in Beaver Creek which was to be their home for 35 years until they retired to their new little home at Hegg. To Mr. and Mrs. Hovelsrud were born five children: Even who died in infancy; Julius of Crosby, North Dakota; Mrs. Ella Brenengen of Norge, Virginia; Mrs. Hilda Tjerstad of Blair and Herman of Richland Center, Wisconsin. One distinction which she carried with her to the grave was that in 1879, she together with Tone Herreid, Gunhild Thompson and Helge Grinde formed the original Ladies Aid in North Beaver Creek. The last years she has lived in her home at Hegg and visited at the homes of her lovely children. It was while she was at her own home that she was suddenly stricken about two weeks ago, and on Tuesday, April 28, 1936 passed into her new home in Heaven. She is also survived by a brother, Hans Lindberg, 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted from the home and from the North Beaver Creek church on Saturday, May 2, with her pastor, the Rev. Konrad Urberg officiating. Her body was laid to rest beside that of her husband under the pines among which they so often walked when they came to God�s Home for worship. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 7, 1936
PETER JOHN HUFF (VARDALL)
Peter John Huff died at his home in this village Wednesday morning, November 24, after a lingering illness from a complication of diseases. Deceased was born in Vardall, Norway, in 1839 and came to this country when but seven years of age. Mr. Huff was one of the pioneers of this village, having lived here for 50 years. When war broke out between the North and the South, he shouldered the musket and was promoted to corporal, and in this capacity he served in the union ranks for two and one-half years. He was at all times a peace loving citizen and was always ready to stand in defense of his country and anything else he thought was right, and under all circumstances, his standard of living was to do right. The warrior and citizen was a man of generous impulses and never forgot the hospitable ways of the pioneer, so when the time came for him to pass from this world forever, he had not the slightest fear of the Beyond. Besides a devoted wife, he leaves a brother and four sisters to mourn his death. Reprinted from the Ettrick Advance. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 9, 1920
MRS. SONNOV HOVRE (FAABERG)
Mrs. Sonnov H. Hovre passed away at her home in French Creek Tuesday morning, June 30, following a few hours illness. She had reached the age of 93 years, 3 months and 3 days. She was born in Faaberg, Norway, March 27, 1838. She was united in marriage to Ole O. Hovre in 1862, and bought a farm in Norway called Hove Eng, from which they took their name. They later sailed to America with their three small children, landing in 1869. They first made their home with Christen Mahlum after which they homesteaded on the farm where she has made her home ever since. Her husband preceded her in death thirty-one years ago, and since then has made her home with her son, Gilbert, on the home farm. She leaves to mourn her death, Ole of Colfax; Mrs. Ben Olson of Hale; Olaf, John, Gilbert and Mrs. Ebert Engelien, all of French Creek. She also leaves 32 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren, together with a large number of friends to mourn her loss. She was a faithful church member and always took great pleasure in singing to her many friends who came to see her. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the French Creek Lutheran church when a large number of relatives and friends came to pay their last respects to the departed. The following eight grandchildren were pallbearers: Oliver, Ole, Edwin and Orville Hovre, Odell Engelien, Henry, Floyd and Selmer Olson. Burial was made in the church cemetery beside her husband. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JULY 9, 1931
OLE O. HOVRE (GULBRANDSDAL)
Ole O. Hovre, farm and merchant of the Town of Hale years ago and at one time treasurer of Trempealeau county, died at his farm home near Colfax Saturday, November 14, in his 73rd year. Mr. Hovre was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, February 14, 1864. He came with his parents to the United State in 1874. The family setttled in the town of Ettrick. After completing the common school in his home district, Ole attended Gale College and was graduated in 1886. The following four years he spent in Spink County, South Dakota, where he did farm work and taught school. At the end of that period he bought what is known as the Hale store, which he conducted 26 years, until the spring of 1916. He was elected county treasurer in 1914 and served two years, after which he moved to Colfax and invested in farmland. Mr. Hovre was married May 13, 1891 to Mathia Bole of Ettrick. They had a family of ten children, eight of whom survive their father besides his wife. Funeral services were held at Colfax Wednesday. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 19, 1936
ANDREW HOYNE (NORWAY)
On Saturday morning, March 20, Andrew Hoyne passed away at the Community hospital at Whitehall. Andrew Hoyne was born January 29, 1863 in Norway. Little is known hereabouts of his subsequent life history. His father was named Gullik Hoyne. Several years ago he came to Blair and was engaged in the profession of a tinner. He was single, having never been married. Before coming to Blair, he lived at Decorah, Iowa, where there now reside some of his distant relatives. Last fall Andrew became ill with a cancerous tumor. He went to the State hospital at Madison; then, after a brief stay in the village, he went to the hospital at Whitehall where his life�s history was ended. Funeral services were conducted on Monday March 22 at 1 p.m. from the First Lutheran church with the Rev. Konrad Urberg officiating. Interment was made in the Zion cemetery. Andrew was alone hereabouts and practically forgotten even before he passed away, excepting the pastor visited him with God�s means of Grace. The following men sympathetically carried the forgotten Andrew Hoyne to his final resting place, and together with the undertaker were the only ones to bare their heads at his grave: Christian Skogstad, C.O. Grinde, Nels Thompson, Edward Elland, John Hellique and Konrad Urberg. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 25, 1937
GULBRAND HULBERG (NAS, HEDMARKEN)
Gulbrand Hulbeg was born at Nas, Hedmarken, Norway, July 4, 1852. Accompanied by his brother, Tom, he came to this country in 1874. His brothers Syver and Edward had come to the U.S. two years before, and from their earnings had bought tickets for Gulbrand and Tom. These four brothers, two years later, bought and sent tickets for their parents, two of their sisters, Pauline and Oline, and their brother, Christian. Mrs. Nestum the oldest sister, came three years later. All this was told in the obituary of Syver Hulberg, but it such a splendid example of beautiful family loyalty and helpfulness, that it cannot be told too often Gulbrand was about 22 years when he came to this country, but it was 20 years later that he married. On June 9, 1894, Theoline Olson became his wife. Seven children were born from their union; namely, Theodore, Arnold, Alma, Selmer, Mabel Gunderson, Esther and Gerhart, all of whom survive their father except Arnold, who died when about 20 years old. His wife also survives him. After marriage the deceased lived on a farm in North Branch of Hale for many years, but immediately prior to his death, he owned and occupied a farm about half a mile east of Pleasantville. Mr. Hulberg, although past 78 years, was comparatively strong and rugged up to the day before his death. On Wednesday morning, December 17th, he was apparently in usual health. Before the end of December 18th, he was dead. I am told it was pneumonia that ended his life so quickly. Sunday, December 20th, Rev. Hjemboe of Strum officiated at his funeral in the Lutheran church in Pleasantville. It was one of the largest funerals ever held in the neighborhood. His widow, children and hundreds of neighbors were there to bid him farewell. Another pioneer has laid aside his implements of labor and joined the companions of his earlier years in the chambers of rest and silence. Hardships, privations and disappointments affect him no more. Pains, sorrows and adversities can no longer reach him. As I read over the last paragraph, I am impressed with the thought, that in speaking of the passing of our pioneers we often use a saddening and misleading phraseology. We too frequently employ words and phrases that imply that our pioneers lived lives of mere drudgery, suffering from excessive toil and lonesomeness. In some cases this was true, but in the great majority of cases, it was not true. I came here early enough to have known most of the pioneer settlers in Elk Creek Valley. I knew George Hale, the first white settler within the boundary of the Town that bears his name. I was intimately acquainted with George H. Markham, who explained to me how the name Elk Creek originated. When Markham came to the Town of Burnside in 1856, there was not a single settler in the Town of Hale. One day Mr. Markham, in company with a man by the name of Kelly, went up Elk Creek Valley. On their trip they saw so many elk along the creek that they suggested on their return that the creek ought to be called Elk Creek. Elk Creek Valley naturally followed. But years later some good woman inspired by a spirit of cheer, suggested the name �Pleasant Valley�. And that is what we have today. It was in 1867 that I first visited this valley. It was still very thinly settled in the eastern portion. Since that time, however, I have known most of the early settlers in the valley. Have lived to see many of them come and most of them go. And as I read the list of names of these early settlers, I feel a bit lonesome, for those who have taken their places are comparatively strangers to me. But I wish to leave my testimony to the effect that most of the early settlers that I knew - men and women - enjoyed life with a zest that coming generations will lack. They had hopes and ambitions that produced individual efforts and industry. They were not waiting for something to turn up. They were not leaning on somebody else- the community, state or general government. They plowed, they sowed and planted and watched things grow. They brought to their new homes domestic animals and domestic birds and saw them grow and multiply. From far and near they brought materials for building homes and day by day they saw things around them take on forms of beauty and usefulness. And best of all, most of them were in the primes of life, or younger, and children came to them in natural procession with promises reaching far beyond the present. If they had been asked �Don�t you pray every evening when you are tired out, for a release from all this?, they would have answered, �We pray every night for sweet, rest sleep, for many, many good morrows and the blessing of God on what we do.� It is during the meeting time in domestic life that men and women experience their greatest and purest happiness. It was under such condition that our departed friend and citizen passed the long active years of his life. And though he undoubtedly often felt the weight of toil, suffered losses and disappointments, on the whole he enjoyed the satisfaction of seeing the successful results of his labor. He strove faithfully, uprightly and continuously to be worthy of the respect of his neighbors, the love of his family, and the grace of his Lord,. May his children crown his memory with worthy lives. Written by H.A. Anderson, December 28, 1930 THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 8, 1931
CHRISTIAN HULBERG (NAS, HEDMARKEN)
Christian Hulberg was born June 29, 1856, in Nas, Hedemarken, Norway, of the parents Thomas T. Larson and Karen Evenson Larson, one of ten children. When he was 20 years old he came to America with his parents and two sisters, Pauline, who is now Mrs. Ben Enger, and Olena. The immigrants came directly to the Town of Hale, where three of the boys in the family, Gilbert, Edward and Thomas had preceded them and bought a farm. Mr. Hulberg made his home with his parents and brothers on their farm for a few years but worked in the woods during the winters and for neighbors during the growing seasons. Then he bought two forties of land for himself, what is now the John Mork farm and lived there for 25 years. Ten acres of this land he donated to the church for a cemetery. While he was a resident of Hale Mr. Hulberg held town as well as church offices. When the Norwegian Lutheran church at Pleasantville was built in 1912, he gave an organ, which is still in use, besides a substantial contribution to the cost of erecting the edifice. This is the church of which the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe is the pastor at the present time. Always a devout Christian, modestly but faithfully serving his Lord through the church and in his daily life, he continued his good works when he retired from farming and moved to Whitehall 13 years ago, building the house on Dewey Street that was his home until he died last Thursday, November 27. He was an officer in Our Saviour�s congregation also, but his health had been so that he had not been able to attend church since Easter Sunday, 1933. About two years ago Mr. Hulberg�s health began to fail and for more than a year he had been confined entirely to his home, and cared for by his sister, Olena, who made her home with him for the past eleven years and during the two last years with the assistance of his niece, Miss Alma Hulberg, The two have been very faithful nurses to Mr. Hulberg during his long months of acute suffering. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon from Our Saviour�s church and burial was made in the Pleasantville cemetery, the Rev. O.G. Birkeland officiating and Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Rhode in charge of arrangements. Special music was furnished by Mrs. Carl Jahr, who sang, �Den Store Hvide Flok� and by a quartet, Mesdames L.L. Solsrud, S.M.. Salverson, Lewis Hanson and J.E. Rhode, whose selection was, �Softly and Tenderly, Jesus is Calling.� Pallbearers wee six nephews, Bennie and Conrad Hulberg of Arcadia, Theodore Enger of Ettrick, Theodore Hulberg of Strum and Gerhard and Selmer Hulberg of Pleasantville. The deceased is survived by three sisters, Olena, this village; Mrs. Ben Enger of Hale; and Elizabeth, Mrs. Gilbert Nettum, now 90 years old, who makes her home with the Anton Nettums in Hale, besides nieces and nephews. His father died 46 years ago; his mother 26 years ago; his brother Sever who lived in French creek, four years ago; brother Gilbert, four years ago; Edward, 11 years ago and Thomas, eight years ago. Two of the children died in Norway. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 6, 1934
SYVER T. HULBERG (NAS, HEDEMARKEN)
Syver T. Hulberg was born at Nas, Hedmarken, Norway, October 10, 1846. His parents were Thomas and Karen Hulberg. In 1872, Syver and his brother, Edward came to the U.S. Their first year in this country was spent in Kansas. From there they came to French Creek, this county, where Syver located his home in section 3-20-8, while Edward began his home-making a short distance east of Pleasantville in the town of Hale. In 1876, Syver married Andrine Olson with whom he had two children, Alette, who died September 6, 1924, and Torval, the present cashier in the State Bank of Osseo. In 1908, Syver moved to Blair. A year later his wife died. Since the death of his daughter, he has lived with his brother, Chris, and sister, Oline, in Whitehall where Monday morning, September 15, 1930, he passed peacefully away at the age of nearly 84 years. Revs. Urberg and Msakestad officiated at his funeral which was held in the French Creek church. And there by the side of his wife and daughter he was laid to rest in the church cemetery. Thomas Hulberg, the father of Syver, was a �Hanseman� in his native country for more than thirty years. This means that about the time he married, he obtained from some farmer the privilege of occupying a little cabin outside the cultivated part of the farm with the further privilege of clearing up new land and using it for garden, pasture, or field and that in consideration of these privileges, Hulberg bound himself to the landowner to work for him five days out of every week during his use of his house and plot of ground at 8 cents a day during the summer and 4 cents a day during winter. Likewise, Mrs. Hulberg, with certain limitations was bound to work for the landlord or landlady when called on for six cents a day. Under such arrangement the tenant had one day a week besides Sunday to work for himself. Such tenants rarely cleared more than an acre of land when they go through, they had nothing to sell or give to their children. Thomas Hulberg managed to keep one cow. Under such circumstances ten children came to Thomas and Karen Hulberg, two of whom died young the others grew up and came to this country. Syver and Edward, the two oldest sons, who came first, used their first earnings to send for their brothers, Gulbrand and Tom, who came here in 1874. Then in 1876, the four brothers pooled their earnings and bought tickets for the rest of the family except Mrs. Nettum, who came about three years later. The old folks, after coming here, made their home mostly with their sons, Edward and Chris, near Pleasantville, and both are buried in the old cemetery near the church in South Branch of Hale. In the late seventies or early eighties I passed the Hulberg home in Hale one Sunday afternoon where there was a family gathering. The five boys were in their prime, likewise the three girls. The boys averaged six feet and the girls had the stature of average men. Here were five men and three women, who by virtue of their stature and stateliness - other things being equal - might have been the selected guard of a king and queen. And these were the children of a �hanseman�. And had they been asked, one by one, all would have answered that during childhood and youth they scarcely ever - except on special holidays - had all they wanted to eat. Out of this splendid group, five survive, Gulbrand, Christian, Elizabeth Nettum, Pauline Enger and Oline Hulberg. Our country has had thousands of such children. Remember the Herreid family. Numerically probably the strongest family in our county and in point of influence second to none. Seven stalwart brothers and a sister came here with their parents in early days. The father was a �Hansman.� Ah! Man is Godlike only when he ascends. These children of the poor had to ascend or perish. One summer evening in that memorable year 1897, I was coming from Galesville home by way of French Creek and Lakes Coulee. I had reached the pass in the range of hills which separate French Creek Valley from Lakes Coulee. I had already got into the habit of stopping there to take a long look northward and southward. The view in either direction from the top of the pass can find no complete expression in words. We may call it �Lovely-grandeur� and pass on feeling that we have failed to express what we have seen and felt. Where I had stopped, lay the shadow of the hill guarding the pass on the west, but the hill on the east side of the pass was drenched with the magic rays of a setting sun. As I looked up the long golden slope, I saw a man on the very brow of the hill fanning himself with his hat. His face shone in the glow of the sun like burnished copper. For a minute or two as he stood in repose I might easily have imagined him one of the war chiefs that used to follow this range of hills for ages before the white man cluttered up their ancient trails. But as he began coming down the hill, I soon discovered he was only a pioneer and not a native. It was Syver Hulberg, whose home lay just south of the pass. After usual greetings, I made some remarks about his cozy, sheltered home. In answer to my remarks he referred in a deprecative manner to his home as, �a hole.� Then, as if regretting what he had said, he added: �But, at least I am my own boss.� In this answer is found one of the fundamental motives that sent our forefathers to the far-off islands of ice-bound seas; and in a later age caused thousands of our nearer ancestors to seek in a new world the freedom which man and environments denied them in their native land. The same motive which found utterance in the famous saying �Give me liberty or give me death,� and which found extreme expression in the words of a poet who makes Cleopatra exclaim, �I would rather be queen in hell, than serve in heaven.� Syver Hulberg, like many other pioneers found here, no bed of roses or ready-made homes in the wilderness. But he found countless opportunities and the freedom to pursue them. Therefore, when he remembered opportunities and the freedom to pursue them. Therefore, when he remembered the days of his youth and early manhood, he was glad to be his own boss. And this he continued to the end of his days; afraid of no man, but walking uprightly and with reverence for his God. He left no wealth nor meteoric gleam of fame, but left an unsullied name which his relatives and friends will be glad to recall while memory lasts. Written by H. A. Anderson, October 5, 1930 THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 9, 1930
HALVOR HUSLEGARD (SOLAR)
Halvor Huslegard was born February 17, 1856, in Solar, Noway, the eldest son of Ole and Eline Huslegard, the latter dying in Norway. After the mother�s death the family emigrated to this country in 1871 and settled in Juneau county, this state, where for a number of years they made their home. For eighteen winters he was employed as cook in the pineries of this state. During the summers he worked in the sawmills at Neceda. In the meantime the family had moved to Chimney Rock to the farm, where later he made his home with his brother, Emil and family. In 1917 he underwent a serious operation at the Lutheran hospital in Eau Claire. After this he never fully recovered his strength. Being troubled with sciatic rheumatism he went to the Community Hospital at Whitehall to receive treatment. Here he contracted pneumonia, which caused his death on December 23. The body was taken to his home from where the funeral took place Saturday, interment being made in the Chimney Rock cemetery, Rev. Langehough of Eleva officiating. He leaves to mourn his death one brother, Emil and four sisters Mrs. Lottie Hendrickson and Mrs. Adolph Hendrickson of this place; Mrs. Helen Mellness and Mrs. Charles Johnson of Eau Claire. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - JANUARY 8, 1920
EDWARD T. HULBERG (NES, HEDMARK)
Edward T. Hulberg, who died in Tacoma, Washington, November 30, 1920, was born in Nes, Hedmarken, Norway in February 1850. He came to this country in 1872 with his oldest brother Sevart, then came to this county. His younger brother Gilbert and Tom came that year. Three years later, they sent for their parents and the youngest children, Christ, Pauline and Olena. That year they bought the James Tull farm near Pleasantville. Three years later they sent for the Gilbert Nettom family, Mrs. Nettom being the oldest sister, Elizabeth. Mr. Hulbert was married in 1886 to Paulina Raa. Six children were born to this marriage, three boys and three girls. Mrs. Hulbertg died in 1898. The three daughters had also passed away, and the only surviving members of the family are the sons, Torvald, Bernhard and Conrad. Having sold his farm in Hale and retired from active life, he went to Tacoma about two years ago and was living with his son, Bernhard. He had been in failing health for about a year and the end came November 30. The three sons and brother, Christ, were with him at his death. The funeral was held at Tacoma and he was buried by the side of his daughter, Louise, who died there about a year ago. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - DECEMBER 23, 1920
THOMAS T. HULBERG (NES, HEDMARK)
Thomas T. Hulberg was born at Nes, Hedmarken, Norway in March 1854. He spent his boyhood in the vicinity where he was born and in the spring of 1873, he and his brother Gilbert set out for America. Two other brothers, Ed and Sever, came to America the year before and located in Kansas. The two former came to French Creek, Trempealeau county, where they remained for thee years. Ed and Sever left Kansas the spring their brothers arrived in Wisconsin and came here also. During the years in French Creek, the boys saved a little money and Ed, Thomas and Gilbert went over into the Town of Hale and bought 150 acres of land from James Tull. A short time after buying the farm Thomas came to Whitehall and started work for T.H Earl, who owned a machine business at that time, and he continued in his employment for many years. At one time Mr. Hulberg owned a harness and shoe repair shop at Whitehall which he conducted for several years. In 1904 he married Miss Anna Olson, daughter of C.M. Olson of Hale. In 1907 Mr. Hulberg bought the Pleasantville store from Carl Jahr and continued its owner and proprietor until 1920, when he sold the property to Nels Gunderson. He then moved his family to Onalaska where he bought a home. In 1922 he traded his Onalaska property for a hotel at Elmwood and moved his family to that village where they have since resided. Mr. Hulberg was taken with an attack of the flu on December 27, which developed into pneumonia and he died January 8, 1927. Thomas Hulberg was a man of integrity and was held in the highest esteem by a large circle of friends and business acquaintances in Trempealeau county where he spent the best years of his life. Deceased is survived by his wife and four children, Truman, Tillford, Adolph and Charlotte. Three brothers and thee sisters also survive - Sever and Chris of Whitehall, Gilbert of the Town of Hale, Mrs. Elizabeth Nettom of Hale, Mrs. Paulina Enger of Duluth, Minnesota and Olina at Whitehall. Funeral services were held at Elmwood January 8. Burial took place in Valley Lake cemetery near that village. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 27, 1927
OLE H. HUSLEGARD (NORWAY)
Ole H. Huslegard of Chimney Rock, who had been a great sufferer for over a year from cancer in the mouth died last Friday night. The funeral took place the following Sunday at the Norwegian Lutheran church in Chimney Rock valley the services being conducted by Rev. Holseth of Albion. A large concourse of friends and neighbors joined in paying respect to the deceased. Mr. Huslegard was born in Norway and was 68 years old. He came to America in 1871 and located in Juneau County. In 1877 he removed to Trempealeau County and settled in Borst valley. The old gentleman was a well-known and much respected citizen. He leaves a grown family of two boys and four girls, who were all with him in his last moments. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JUNE 7, 1894
EMIL HUSEGARD (SOLAR)
On Wednesday, March 5, 1940, the life of another pioneer settler came to an end in the death of Emil Huslegard at his home in Borst Valley. Death came unexpectedly from a heart attack as up to the last months of life he enjoyed unusually good health for a person of his age. Had he lived until June of this year, he would have been 81 years old. Emil Huselgard was born on June 4, 1859 in Solar, Norway, the son of Ole and Elline Anseth Huslegard. He spent his boyhood in Norway, remaining there until shortly after the death of his mother on March 2, 1871. On the 10th of May, that year the father with his seven children left the old home in Norway to come to America. The arrived in Rosa Crei, Wisconsin on the 12th of July and established a home at Necedah, where they lived until 1878. In the latter year, the family bought 150 acres of uncultivated land in Chimney Rock township. During the summer season, Emil worked at clearing the land on their new farm and it was he who was largely responsible for building it up to its present modern status. Adjoining land has been added to the original until now there are 315 acres in the farm and the buildings are well built up and maintained. While he was still a youth, Emil spent his winters in the logging camps of northern Wisconsin, and sometimes he spent summer months in the sawmills at Necedah, Mrs. Huslegard�s marriage to Laura Marie, oldest daughter of John Haakenson of Chimney Rock, occurred on January 17, 1891. Following their marriage he took his bride to the farm on which the family had settled. His father died there in 1894. Three children were born to this couple, John and Henry, who reside on the home place, and one daughter, Alice, who is Mrs. Albert Stuve of Whitehall. Mrs. Huslegard preceded him in death on October 23, 1920. Besides his children, deceased is survived by one sister, Mrs. Helen Melsness, who had been his housekeeper for the past fifteen years. Of the seven children in the family who came from Norway in 1871, Mrs. Melsness is now the only one left. Mr. Huslegard is also mourned by a nephew Eddie Hendrickson, whom he reared from childhood, and by three grandchildren Alan, Anita and Audrey Stuve of Whitehall. Funeral services were held at the Chimney Rock Lutheran church, the Rev. H.A. Wichmann officiating on Monday, March 11. Martin Olson of Independence sang three hymns at the services. Pallbearers were six nephews, Hilbert, Olin, Arthur and Arthur M. Hendrickson, LeRoy Johnson and Fred Witt. The flowers were carried by their wives. Burial was in the church cemetery. The name Emil Huslegard was known for miles around, for he was regarded as a man of strict integrity and much kindly hospitality. That he had many friends was testified by the number who attended the last rites and others called at the Huslegard home following his death to express their sympathy. He was a sincere church worker and kind and generous. Young and old respected him for the quality of man he was. His word was good as his bond. Emil Huslegard was looked upon as representing perfection among men. Those who knew him mourn him with the thought that it had been a privilege to know him. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 21, 1940
IVER HUSMOEN (FABERG)
Iver Husmoen, 64, died Sunday morning at his home in the Tamarack Valley, following an illness of several weeks� duration. He was born in Faaberg, Norway, September 5, 1871, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Husemoen. In 1885 the family came to America, settling first at Coon Valley and then in the Tamarack Valley, where the deceased was occupied with farming. He was united in marriage, first to Elizabeth Sandaker, who died 26 years ago. He married second, Josie Kamprud, who passed away 22 years ago. His third wife, the former Olive Kamprud, survives. He is also survived by three sons, Elmer, Oscar and Arthur and a daughter, Josie, all of the town of Ettrick; three brothers, Olaf of Abercrombie, North Dakota; Tobias and Theodore, and three sisters, Mrs. Ole Mustad, Mrs. Peter Pederson and Mrs. Louis Smikrud. A sister in Norway, two sons and a daughter preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the French Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. Burial will be made in the French Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 5, 1936
OLAF HUSEMOEN (FAABERG, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Olaf Husemoen, 83, died Monday at a hospital in Fargo, North Dakota where he had been a patient for two weeks following a stroke. He was born in Faaberg, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Husemoen, April 25, 1868. In 1886, he came with his parents to America, setting first at Coon Valley and later coming to the French creek Valley, Ettrick township. In 1893 he was married to Maria Hogden and the couple moved to Abercrombie, North Dakota where Mr. Husemoen was a mail carrier for many years. He is survived by his wife and two sisters, Mrs. Ole Mustad and Mrs. Ludwig Smikrud, both of Ettrick. Preceding him in death were three brothers: Theodore who died March 11, 1951; Tobias, who died March 3, 1943, and Iver, who died February 23, 1936. A sister, Mrs. Peter Pederson, died March 31, 1951. All were of Ettrick Township. Funeral services were to be held Friday, February 15, at Abercrombie and burial was to be in the Abercrombie cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - NO DATE GIVEN
MARIT SORHAUGEN HUSMOEN (NORWAY)
Mrs Marit Sorhaugen Husemoen, 93, passed way Wednesday, March 6, at the home of her son, Tobias Husmoen, in Upper French Creek, following an illness of six weeks� duration. Mrs. Husmoen was born in Norway, September 27, 1841, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Torger Sorhaugen. On June 18, 1867, she was married to Ole Husmoen. In 1885 the couple came to America and settled on a farm in Upper French Creek. She is survived by four sons, Olaf of Abercrombie, North Dakota; Tobias and Iver of Upper French Creek and Theodore of North Beaver Creek; three daughters, Mrs. Peter (Sena) Pederson and Mrs. Ludwig (Mina) Smikrud of Ettrick and Mrs. Ole (Ia) Mustad of Upper French Creek; 18 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Her husband died six years ago. Funeral services were held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the home and 1:30 p.m. at the French Creek Lutheran church, the Rev. Johan Olsen officiating. Burial was in the French Creek cemetery. Six grandsons were pallbearers. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 14, 1935
TOBIAS HUSMOEN (NORWAY)
Funeral services for Tobias Husmoen, 73, who died Wednesday at his home in French Creek, were conducted Saturday at 1 p.m. at the home and at 1:45 pm. at the French Creek Lutheran church. The Rev. Oscar Rem, Galesville, officiated and burial was in the French Creek cemetery. Mr. Husmoen was ill a long time before his death. He was born in Norway July 1, 1869, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Husmoen. The family came to America in 1885, setting first at Coon Valley. After a year the family moved to French Creek valley, Ettrick township, where Mr. Husmoen spent the remainder of his life. He was a member of French Creek Lutheran church. On March 12, 1904 he married Mina Myerstuen who died November 15, 1934. Surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Peter Peterson, Mrs. Ole Mustad and Mrs. Ludwig Smikrud, all of Ettrick; two brothers, Olaf, Abercrombie, North Dakota; and Thoedore, Ettrick; three sons, Joseph, French Creek; and Melvin and Julian on the home farm; four daughters, Mrs. Francis Danielson, Disco; Mrs. Irvin Hogden and Mrs. Gerald Berg, French Creek and Mrs. Guy Amoth, Ettrick and 14 grandchildren. A brother, Iver, died in 1936. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 11, 1943
THEODORE O. HUSMOEN (FAABERG)
Theodore Olson Husmoen, 71, died at his farm home two miles south of Ettrick, Sunday afternoon. He had suffered a stroke two years ago and had been confined to his bed the last fifteen months. Funeral services were held at the Runnestrand funeral chapel at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, 151, and at Ettrick Lutheran church at 1:30 p.m. The Rev. K.M. Urberg officiated and burial was in the Ettrick cemetery. Mr. Husmoen was born at Faberg, Norway, April 7, 1879, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Husmoen. At the age of six, in 1885, he came with his parents to America, the family settling first at Coon Valley. Later they moved to the French Creek valley, Ettrick Township. In his youth Husmoen worked at farm labor, masonry and carpentry and he broke and trained horses. He spent several winters in logging camps in Northern Wisconsin and several falls with harvest crews in North Dakota. He married Hannah Smikrud November 7, 1906. Survivors include his wife; four children, Arthur and Milas at home, Tilman of Blair and Mrs. Ansel (Margie) Dahl of South Beaver Creek; five grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Peter Pederson, Mrs. Ole Mustad and Mrs. Ludwig Smikrud, Ettrick; and a brother, Oluf, Abercrombie, North Dakota. A son, Roy, died in 1925; a brother, Iver died in 1935; and a brother, Tobias died in 1943. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 22, 1951
OLE P. HUSOM (NORDE FRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Ole P. Husom died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Martin Jorgenson at the Scandinavian hotel in this village last Friday, July 12, 1912, at the ripe age of 95 years, 3 weeks and 5 days. Deceased was born at Nordre Fron, Gulrandsdalen, Norway in 1817. He came to America in 1868, settling in Dane County, where he resided two years, then came to Trempealeau County, locating in the Town of Preston. Some years later he moved to a farm in the Town of Lincoln. Seven year ago he took up his residence in Whitehall where he had since continuously made his home. He is survived by three children from his first marriage, namely, Mrs. F.W. Hoffman and Mrs. R.O. Simons of Superior and Mrs. Martin Jorgenson of Whitehall. Mr. Husom was a well and favorably known citizen of this community for many years and one of the oldest members of the Synod Lutheran church. The funeral was held from the Synod Lutheran church in this village on Monday, the services being conducted by its pastor, Rev. O.K. Ramberg. Interment took place at the Old Whitehall cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JULY 18, 1912
LEROY A. HILL (WHITEHALL, WISCONSIN)
LeRoy Allen Hill, 55, died Sunday morning at his home on Rt. 1, Wautoma. Mr. Hill was born August 23, 1919, in Whitehall and was married February 1, 1946, to Selma Lee in Eleva. They lived in Eau Claire until 1966, then lived in Orfordville and moved to the Wautoma area in 1972. He was employed as a road construction supervisor. He was a member of Eau Claire Masonic Lodge and Orfordville American Legion Post. Mr. Hill served with the Army in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Funeral services will be held Wednesday in Orfordville Lutheran Church with Rev. Thronson officiating. Besides his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Randy McGuire, Footville, Wisconsin; Brenda, at home; two sons, Howard, Stoughton, Ronald at home; one brother, Eldon, Maquaketa, Iowa; and one sister, Mrs. Joseph Lee, Eau Claire. Newcomer-Silverthorn Funeral Home, Orfordville was in charge of the arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
MRS. OLE B. HOFF (SYNDALEN OR SUNDALEN, NORWAY)
Mrs. Oline Moen Hoff was born at Syndalen (Sundalen), Norway, July 31, 1854 and died at her home in the town of Curran on Wednesday, October 24, 1923 at the age of 59 years, 2 months and 23 days. The deceased was the daughter of Hans and Mary Hansen Moen and came to the town of Curran in 1882. On April 29, 1887, she was married to Ole B. Hoff, who, with five sons and five daughters, survive a faithful, loving wife, a devoted and patient mother. All the children were present at the funeral. Mrs. Hoff was a consistent member of the Lutheran church and her funeral services were conducted Saturday, October 27, in the same church wherein she had been married, the Upper Pigeon Creek church. The Rev. E.B. Christopherson officiated as clergyman and the five sons and one son-in-law acted as pallbearers. Interment was made in the church cemetery. There was a large concourse of sorrowing friends who sent many beautiful floral tributes as tokens of their respect. The sons and daughters are: John, Cherhill, Canada; Mrs. Melvin Hagenstad, Northfield; Mrs. Ida Hendrickson, at home; Mrs. Melvin Amundson, Regent, North Dakota; George, Gary, North Dakota; Selmer, Regent, North Dakota; Mrs. Ove Bergerson, Northfield; and Oscar and Morris at home. There are also two sisters living - Mrs. Dora Hanson of Des Moines, Iowa and Mrs. B. Pederson of Northfield, both of whom were present at the funeral. There are two brothers living in Norway. Mrs. Hoff was very highly regarded in her home community. She was a good wife and mother, one devoted to the interests of her family circle, and among her neighbors she was ever ready to be kindly and obliging. She was an earnest worker in her church. Her many friends extend sincere sympathy to husband, children and other relatives. Husband and children - efforts in the promotion of their happiness and welfare. Endowed with nobility of character and cheerfulness of disposition her kindly way and courteous attention endeared her to many who were her neighbors and friends. Her heartfelt solicitude and her generous assistance went out to those who were in trouble and distress. In her community she had an interest in those things which were for the betterment of all and for many years in her church and in other circles she was a quiet but effective worker. The large concourse of friends who gathered to pay their last tribute to her good life among them, had only words of praise in their innumberable recollections of her kindly deeds and services. Among those friends were many who had been her neighbors during the many long years and from them came many expressions of her Christian life and character. Her children and other relatives have the sincere sympathy of all in their great sorrow. Among those who came from a distance to attend her funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Helland and children and Mrs. Schultz of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. SOURCE - JACKSON COUNTY JOURNAL, OCTOBER 1923 (Researching this family is Audrey Amundson
SYVER HJERLEID (NORWAY) (2)
Syver Hjerleid, a wealthy farmer and leading citizen, residing on section 9, Springfield Township, first saw the light of day among the pine-clad hills of Norway, September 21, 1828. His parents, Iver and Ann Hjerleid, were also natives of Norway and there lived and died. They had three sons: Ole, Haldor and Syver, the youngest and only member of the family who left his native land. He grew to manhood and was educated there. In 1852, he came to America and located in Chicago, Illinois, where he worked at the painter's trade for seven years. He saved his money, lived economically, and by his prudence and thrift was enabled, in 1854, to purchase a farm in Jackson County; he paid the government one dollar and a quarter per acre; five years after he bought this land he removed to it, and has since given his time and energies to it cultivation. His efforts have been successful, as he now has one of the most desirable farms in the county; it consists of 160 acres and is well improved with many conveniences. In addition to this he owns 200 acres in another portion of Springfield Township. When he arrived in New York, Mr. Hjerleid had but $2 in money and was unable to speak one word of English, and today he ranks among the most reliable agriculturists of the community. He is always read to lend a helping hand to every enterprise that is calculated to up-build the moral and religious elements of society. In his political opinions he agrees with the Republican principles of government. He has served the people of his township in some official capacity continuously since his residence there. Mr. Hjerleid was united in marriage in July 1859 to Miss Helen Knudson in Chicago, Illinois. She was born in Norway, February 7, 1835. In all the obstacles he has overcome, and in all the efforts he has made to accumulate some property, Mr. Hjerleid has been ably and faithfully aided by his wife and this record would fail in one of its purposes if it did not preserve this fact in connection with the history of this successful man. Mr. and Mrs. Hjerleid are the parents of eleven children� Dorothea M., Ibert M., Hans C., Ludwig O., Hannah S., Haldor R., Clarence M., Octavius, Ninah C., Carl M. and Effie D. Ibert M. is deceased. The family are all consistent members of the Lutheran church, and occupy a position of honor and high respect in the community. HISTORY OF CLARK AND JACKSON COUNTY - 1891
CHRISTIAN J. HOGDEN (FRENCH CREEK VALLEY, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY)
Christian J. Hogden, who is engaged in farming in Ettrick Township, having two farms of 80 acres each, in sections 26, 27, 15 was born in French Creek Valley, this county, October 8, 1862. His parents were John Anderson and Olive (Anderson) Hogden, born in Vardar, Norway, the father July 4, 1832 and the mother April 14, 1830. They were married in Norway and came to the United States in 1854, residing for about a year near Holmen whence they removed to Trempealeau Valley. Three years later John A. Hogden and his family removed to the farm, where he now lives in section 23, Ettrick Township, having resided her over 60 years. As a pioneer settler of the county he had to endure many hardships in early days, among other things being obliged to carry flour on his back from LaCrosse to his home near Blair. The Indians were then numerous and often came to his cabin begging. By humoring them and treating them in a friendly manner he got along with them without any trouble and often traded with them for buckskins, blueberries or other wild products. His farm contained 120 acres, to which he later added 100 acres more. He engaged in general farming and stockraising and gradually became prosperous. He was one of the founders of the Lutheran Congregation Church in this valley, and also assisted in organizing the Ettrick Creamery Company. He was also a member of the township board in early days and assisted in organizing the schools and in building the first schoolhouse. Bearing in mind his own early difficulties and trials, he was always glad to extend a helping hand to new settlers, giving them food and shelter and showing them how to build their cabins, break their land and do other work to which many of them had been unaccustomed. During the Civil War he sent a substitute to serve for him, not being able to leave his family. His wife died April 11, 1909, after many years of happy married life. Their family included eight children, as follows: Andrew, Carolina, John, Anna (deceased), Christian J., Peter, Julia and Ole. Christian J. Hogden in his boyhood attended school in district No. 1 French Creek Valley, and resided at home until he was 21 years old. After that he worked two winters in the pineries. Being now ready to begin farming for himself, he rented his father�s farm and operated on that basis for three years. At the emd of that time he purchased his father-in-law�s (Hans Madson) farm. He has since continued to reside here and has prospered. He has spent several thousand dollars in improving the place. The two parts of the estate, each consisting of 80 acres are separated about a mile and a half from each other. They are provided with good buildings and are fully equipped for all the purposes of modern farming. Mr. Hogden is a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery and also in the Farmers and Merchants Bank at Galesville. He was also formerly interested in the Western Wisconsin Telephone Company, in which, however, he has sold out his stock. Mr. Hogden was first married, May 18, 1889, to Oleana Madson, who was born on this farm October 30, 1864, daughter of Hans and Johanas (Olson) Madson. Her parents were natives of Norway ands were early settlers in this township, coming here from Vernon County, where they had resided one summer. Both are now deceased. Mrs. Oleana Hogden died February 19, 1899, leaving three children: Josephine, born April 5, 1890, wife of Gust Erickson (her issue, Kilmer, Oleana and Goodwin), a farmer residing one mile north of Ettrick; Hans, born February 5, 1895; Oscar, who is single and lives on the home farm; and Clara Otillie, born June 17, 1897, residing at home. On December 5, 1907, Mr. Hogden married for his second wife, Miss Anna Larson, who was born at Hardie�s Creek, Gale Township, this county, daughter of Matt and Agnes (Larson) Larson. Her parents, both natives of Norway, came early to Trempealeau County, settling on Hardie�s Creek, where the father died, after a career of many years engaged in farming and stock raising. The widow still resides on the farm. They had ten children, of whom their daughter, Anna, was the third in order of birth. Of Mr. Hogden�s second marriage, there are no children. The family church is the French Creek Lutheran. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
THOMAS HOGAN (KVITISED, TELEMARKEN, NORWAY) (2)
Thomas Hogan, proprietor of the Thomas Hogan & Son Lumber Company at Blair, was born in Kvitised, Telemarken, Norway, March 18, 1854, son of Knudt Tollefson and Gunhild Tvedt, the former of whom died in 1863 and the latter in 1862. The original family name was Hougen. Knudt Tollefson was a lieutenant in the standing army of Norway. The first of the family to come to America was Gunder (brother of Thomas), who reached this country in 1878. He was joined two years later by Thomas at Humbird, Wisconsin. For a time Thomas Hogan worked in the lumberyard there, then he secured employment in a sawmill four miles southeast of Hatfield. So faithfully did he perform his duties there that after the first year he was placed in charge of the shipping. In 1886, with Simon Lein, he opened a lumberyard at Blair, under the firm name of Hogan & Lein. Owing to ill health, Mr. Lein sold out to Mr. Hogan, and the firm became the Hogan Lumber & Stock Company. From 1898 until January 1, 1917, the business was conducted under Mr. Hogan's name as an individual. January 1, 1917, the firm became Thomas Hogan & Son. Mr. Hogan deals in all kinds of lumber and building material, and has built up a good business, the success of which has been due to his fairness and business integrity. Mr. Hogan enjoys an excellent standing in the community and has served on the village council for eight years. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America. He was married January 28, 1885, to Anna Olive Lynnes, who was born in Edsvald, Norway, daughter of Andrew and Johanna Lynnes, the former of whom now lives with the Hogan family. Mr. and Mrs. Hogan have had six children: Louisa, Jennie, Clifford, Agnes, Gena and Arthur. Louisa lives at home. Jennie died at the age of 17 years; Clifford at the age of 24 years, and Agnes at the age of 15 years. Gena married Tosten Thompson, and they have two children, Truman and Ruth. Arthur married Mabel Johnstad and resides at Blair, where he is associated in business with his father in the firm of Thomas Hogan & Son. Mr. Hogan and family are affiliated religiously with the Lutheran church. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
RICHARD H. HOLTAN (DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Richard H. Holtan, dealer in leaf tobacco at Whitehall, Wisconsin was born in Dane County, this state, August 11, 1876, son of Hans and Randi (Lunde) Holtan. He resided at home with his parents until his marriage, October 28, 1897, when he engaged in farming for himself until 1902. He then moved to Stoughton, engaging in the tobacco business under the style of Richard Holtan & Co. After carrying on the business there until 1905 he moved to Whitehall, establishing himself here August 28. In 1914, the concern was incorporated with a capital stock of $45,000, taking the name of the Holtan Leaf Tobacco Company, with John Holtan, president; R.H. Holtan, secretary, and O.H. Holtan, treasurer. The concern has two offices, one at Whitehall and the other at Stoughton, with warehouses at Stoughton. R.H. Holtan is also vice-president of the People's State Bank of Whitehall. He has served four years as a member of the village council and was its president three years. Fraternally he is a member of the Beavers and Odd Fellows, in which latter order he has passed all the chairs. Mr. Holtan was married October 28, 1897 to Betsey Johnson of Utica, Dane County, who was born November 24, 1876, daughter of Jokum and Aasil (Smithback) Johnson. This union has been blessed with two children: Herbert, born October 7, 1898, and Rollin A., born December 7, 1902. Jokum Johnson, farmer and merchant, now residing at Stoughton, Wisconsin, was born in Nummedal, Norway, in 1853, and came to America in 1871, settling in Dane County, Wisconsin, where he engaged in farming. In 1894 he became a merchant at Utica, in the same county, and in 1910 retired and moved to his present home. He married Aasil Smithback, who died March 24, 1909, at the age of 59 years. They were the parents of six children: Oscar, residing in the Township of Christiania, Dane County, Wisconsin; Betsey (Mrs. R.H. Holtan); Aline, who died at the age of two years; Emma (Mrs. Sorensen); Nellie of Utica, Dane County, who married E. Adolph Johnson, and Olga, now Mrs. B. Logan of Christiania, Dane County. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
FREDERICK N. HOKLAND (NORDLAND, NORWAY)
Frederick N. Hokland, formerly of the firm of Tom Lomsdahl & So., Osseo, dealers in hardware, farm implements, agricultural machinery and automobiles, was born in Nordland, Norway, September 22, 1853, son of Nels O. and Mary (Frederickson ) Hokand. Nels O. Hokland came to America from Norway with his family in 1867, and farmed in Vernon County, Wisconsin, until 1872, when he came to Trempealeau County, and located in Pigeon Township, moving a year later to a farm in the east side of Hale Township, where he remained until 1903, when he moved to Osseo, where he now lives at the good old age of 83, making his home with his son, Frederick, N., his wife having died in 1884. Frederick N. Hokland was reared on his father's farm. From 1897 to 1901 he was manager of the Whitehall & Pigeon Trading Association at Whitehall. In 1904, with Gilbert Lewis, he opened a hardware and implement store in Osseo, under the firm name of Lewis & Hokland. Tom Lomsdahl, in 1912, purchased the Lewis interest, and the firm was consolidated in Tom Lomsdahl & Co. Aside from the building up a large trade, Mr. Hokland has found time for service as a member of the village council for four years. He was clerk of the school board of his district in Hale Township for eleven years. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
OLE O. HOVRE (GULBRANDSDALEN, NORWAY) (2)
Ole O. Hovre, recently county treasurer of Trempealeau County, was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, February 14, 1864. His father, Ole O. Hovre, also a native of Norway, came to the United States in 1874, settling in Ettrick Township, where he homesteaded land in section 2 in 1876. He died on his farm in 1900 at the age of 70 years. Ole O. Hovre married Sonnov Husmoen, who survives him and still resides on the homestead, being now 78 years old. They had six children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the first-born. Ole O. Hovre, Jr. was graduated from Gale College in 1886. He then went to Spink County, South Dakota where he remained until 1890, working on farms during the summers and teaching school in the winters. At the end of that period, he bought a general store in Hale, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin and conducted it for 26 years, or until the spring of 1916 when he sold out. He was elected county treasurer in the fall of 1914 and served two years. He has lately purchased a farm in Taintor Township, Dunn County, to which he intends to remove after January 1, 1917. Mr. Hovre served as clerk of Hale Township for 12 years. He was also clerk of school district no. 3 for eight years. For 24 years he served as deacon of the Norwegian Lutheran Synod church, acting as secretary for six years. He was also justice of the peace for 24 years. Mr. Hovre was married May 13, 1891 to Mathia Bole, of Ettrick Wisconsin, who was born there February 7, 1871, daughter of Juuhl and Ingri Bole. Her father, who was born in Norway, came to America in 1875, locating in Vernon County, Wisconsin, from which place after a year he came to Ettrick. He died in 1914 attained the age of 90 years. Mr. and Mrs. Hovre have had a family of 10 children: Selma, residing at home; Olga, who lives in Culbertson, Montana, where she is employed as a bookkeeper; May, who is the wife of the Rev. Folkestad of Strum, Wisconsin; and Helmer, Hazel, Myrtle, Lillian M., Orvel, Allice and Catherine, all of whom are residing at home except Lillian M., who died at the age of 2 years. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
EMIL HUSLEGARD (SOLER, NORWAY) (2) Emil Huslegard, a well known farmer of Chimney Rock Township, proprietor of the Huslegard farm of 160 acres in section 33, and also the owner of 35 acres in section 4, Burnside Township, the whole forming one farm, was born in Soler, Norway, June 4, 1858, a son of Ole and Ellen, his wife, whose maiden name was Ellen Ansett. The father was born in Norway in 1829 and was married in his native land, where his wife died in 1869. In 1871 he came with the surviving members of his family to the United States, settling in Adams County, Wisconsin, where he remained five years. He then bought 80 acres of land in section 33, Chimney Rock Township, which he cultivated for four years, subsequently retiring and taking up his residence with his son, Emil, at whose home he died in June 1897. By his wife Ellen he had seven children: Lottie, who married Carl Hendrickson, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township; Halvor, who resides with his brother Emil, who was the third born child; Helen, who married Adolph Melsness, who is secretary of the I.S. W.A. at Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Bertha, wife of Charles Johnson, a moulder of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Mary, wife of Adolph Henrickson, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township; Alice, who died at the age of 20 years. Emil Huslegard was a boy of 13 years when he accompanied his father to America. At that early age he made himself useful in various ways and when a little older and stronger began working in the saw mills at Necedahl, Wisconsin, being thus occupied subsequently, and also working in the woods, until 1889. He then bought the farm on which he has since resided and which he is operating on a profitable basis. This is a well developed piece of agricultural property, with good buildings, and is pleasantly situated in the southern part of the township in the neighborhood known was Russell. January 17, 1892, Mr. Huslegard was married to Laura Haakenson, who was born in Chimney Rock Township, this county, January 17, 1871. Her father, John Haakenson, who was born in Norway in 1846, came to America in 1868 and died December 4, 1891. Her mother, whose maiden name was Ellen Erickson was born in Norway March 11, 1832, and is still residing on the old homestead in Chimney Rock Township. Mr. and Mrs. Huslegard are the parents of three children: John, born April 25, 1893; Alice, born January 29, 1895 and Henry, born January 12, 1898. The family attend the Norwegian Lutheran Church. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
CONRAD HULBERG (WISCONSIN) Conrad Hulberg, a popular young automobile man, was born in Hale Township, April 4, 1891. He went to the neighborhood schools, learned farming from his father, and early became an adept in mechanics. With his brother he engaged in the garage business at Osseo for a while, and is now employed in the Hohmann Garage at Arcadia, where he is doing excellent work. He is a good workman, a master of his trade, and a general friend. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
BERNHARD HULBERG (WISCONSIN) Bernhard Hulberg, a rising young garage man of Osseo, was born in Hale Township, this county, March 27, 1887, and was reared to farm pursuits, attaining a good rudimentary education in the district schools. He became interested in the automobile industry, and seeing an opening at Osseo, formed a partnership with his brother, Conrad, and engaged in the garage business in this village, occupying a building which was erected for them in 1915 by O.C. Gullard. Mr. Hulberg is now connected with the Amundson Garage, in whose success he is a valued factor. He was married May 10, 1916 to Helga Brateng, who was born December 22, 1891. The parents of Mr. Hulberg were Edward and Paulina (Raa) Hulberg, natives of Norway, who came to Hale Township some forty years ago, the father now living in Osseo, and the mother having died in 1896. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY � 1917
Back to Home Page
