Alfred Vangsness
October 9, 1915 ~ December 23, 2013
Alfred passed away on Monday, December 23, 2013 at Elim Care Center in Fargo at the age of 98.
Alfred Melvin Vangsness was born on October 9, 1915, the son of George and Oline (Perhus) Vangsness. He attended country school in Berry Township near Walcott, ND. He grew up and worked as a hired hand for many farmers in the surrounding area. He married Annabelle Salle at West Prairie Lutheran Church near Kindred on June 1, 1947 and they farmed the land known as the Herbert Schwarz farm in Addison Township for many years before purchasing their farm near Kindred.
Alfred served on the boards of the Addison and Davenport Townships for over 15 years, was an active member and held various office positions in the Davenport Lutheran Church, belonged to the Davenport Fire Department for 23 years and was a charter member of the Davenport Lions. For years he helped the Lions with their Pitchfork Fondues that were widely known in the surrounding area. He was also a long time student at the Rustad “College of Knowledge”.
Alfred is survived by his four children – Sharon (Steven) Taggart of Port Huron, MI; Adele (Dennis) Reed of Naples, FL; Janet (James) Bergum of Howell, NJ; and Gerald “Gib” (Diana) Vangsness of Walcott, ND; 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; his brother, Sherman (Shirley) Vangsness of Texas; and sister-in-law, Clara Drotts of Deer River, MN.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle; 2 sisters and 5 brothers.
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West End North CarolinaWe are saddened by Uncle Alfred’s passing and extend our sympathy to Sharon, Adele, Janet, Gerald and their families.
We will always remember his quick wit, ready smile, and enthusiasm for life. I (JoAnn) have many memories of Uncle Alfred dating back to my childhood. Phone calls to Uncle Alfred were always special!
Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who loved Alfred during this difficult time. May God’s comfort and strenght be present.
Dale and JoAnn Erickson
West Fargo ND
Alfred was a great man! My father, Oscar Kleven, was a resident at Elim for 3 years and Alfred was his roommate at the time he passed away in 2008. We really enjoyed our visits with him and my dad appreciated him as a friend and roommate. They had many good discussions over farming and politics. They solved many of the world’s problems and I am pretty confident that they really did know the answers!! They both had faith in the Lord and we are happy to have known Alfred.
lewiston mnDear Cousins,
So sorry to hear of Alfred’s passing. Have fond memories of his wonderful humor. Sitting and listening to Dad and the uncles talk, was our entertainment while we grew up.
Our sympathy to all of you and your families. Carol, Luke, Luther and Tony
Fargo , North Dakota
Our deepest sympathy to all of Alfred’s family. Sorry we can not attend the services. Alfred was such a fun person. We enjoyed his company. He lived a long life but now is at peace.
Sincerely, George & Karen Kruse
Mandan ND
Your in our thoughts and prayers
Pine City MN
Dear Adele and Family,
We are so saddened to hear about your dad’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
Tim & Marla
Hawley MN
Sharon and family,
Gene and I are sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. It has been many years since we have made contact, but I have fond memories of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Grand Rapids MnAdele,
We are thinking of you in this time of sorrow.
Our sincere sympathy.
Sandy and Don
Barnesville So sorry for your loss especially so close to christmas. I’m ken and Lila Geerdes granddaughter.