Loren Stenson

loren stenson
Loren A. Stenson, 94, peacefully left this earth on May 30, 2020 at the Fargo VA Medical Center. He was formerly from Crosby and Williston, North Dakota. Loren was born January 18, 1926, the son of Jacob and Blanche (Robbins) Steenson, on his parents’ homestead in Plumer Township located in Divide County, near Crosby. He was raised and educated in the area. From an early age, he assisted his parents with the operation of the family farm. He stopped out of high school to assist on the farm, but later earned his GED before entering his military service. Loren enlisted in the United States Army in September of 1954. He proudly served his country after the Korean War with the Peacekeeping Force in Germany as a Private First Class with duties as a Medical Aidman. He was honorably discharged August of 1956. While in the Army, Loren’s last name was misspelled from Steenson to Stenson, which he kept for the remainder of his life. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Williston and was employed with CE Natco. His duties included roustabout work with primarily building oil tanks. In March of 1958, Loren was united in marriage to Maxine L. Hauge at Bethlehem Church of rural New Town. The couple made their home on his parents’ homestead in rural Crosby. To this union 3 children were born. The couple later divorced. Loren moved back to Williston in 1978 and became employed with CE Natco again, where he remained until his retirement in 1991. Loren was united in marriage to Peggy Fougner from 1983-1984, and was then widowed. Loren was united in marriage to Patricia Christopherson from 1984-2007, and was then widowed. While in Crosby he was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Crosby Curling Club, served on the Divide County School Board and as the Plumer Township Assessor. While in Williston he was a member of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Moose Lodge, and the Veterans of Foreign War. Loren enjoyed dancing, bowling, and was an avid curler, participating into his 80’s. His Williston Basin curling team won the National Senior Men’s Bonspiel in 1987. Loren loved growing up, working, and spending time on the farm. He was proud of the fact that his parents’ homestead farm has stayed in the family with his son Lee and family now residing there. Loren also assisted Lee on the farm well into his 80’s. He was always happy to spend time with his family and friends. He was known for his saying “Thanks for stoppin’!” He will be greatly missed. In his final years, Loren lived at the Arbor House and Bethel Lutheran Home in Williston, and Elim and Rosewood on Broadway in Fargo. Loren loved to play cards. He enjoyed his daily games of “Crazy Eights” and played up until his final days. Loren also enjoyed reminiscing and looking at his photos of family and friends. He was proud of his family. Surviving family includes: Children: Vince (Malissa) Stenson, Lee (Tammy) Stenson, Jana (Brian) Stenson-Kreie; Grandchildren: Adam (Kristin) Stenson, Taylor Stenson, Kelsey (Curtis) Watson, Cole (Clara) Stenson, Jace Stenson, Jule Stenson; Great-Grandchildren: Ryker, Maizy, River, Ty; Step-Grandchild: Hailie Larson; Brother: Bernard Steenson; Sister: Lucille Heldt; a few cousins; and several nieces and nephews. Loren was preceded in death by his parents; wives Peggy and Patricia; brother Clayton Steenson; and sisters-in-law Dorie Steenson and Jean Steenson. A private memorial service is being arranged by the family. Burial will be at Troy cemetery of rural Crosby. Memorials may be given in Loren’s name to the Troy cemetery of rural Crosby or a charity of choice. A special thank you to his caregivers at Rosewood, especially to his favorite caregiver Jackie, who we will forever be grateful to for her compassion and love given to our Dad. Also, a huge thank you to the Medical Unit staff at the Fargo VA Hospital for the great care given in the final 3 weeks of his life.

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  1. Vince and all of Loren’s family:

    We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you at this time.

  2. Loren was a wonderful guy. He will be remembered fondly to those that knew him. Sending sympathy to the family.

  3. Hilborn Family
    We send our condolences on the passing of Loren. My father Virgil lived in the Rosewood Memory Care unit with Loren and also passed away in May. Jana, my mother Marian was especially saddened by your loss. She enjoyed visits with you and enjoyed watching your families card games with your dad.
    Diane Hilborn

  4. It has been years since I saw my uncle Loren, but the photos remind me of his relaxed nature and infectious smile. We’d visit from Colorado and I remember him being so patience and kind with us visiting “city” kids at the farm. My condolences to all his friends and family. Wish I could be there for the service Sunday; I’ll be thinking of him.

  5. My sympathy especially to Loren’s close family and to all who loved him. To the best of my memory, I only met/saw Loren less than a handful of times, but I know he was a very admired man because my parents tell me that at the time of my birth, he was the favorite cousin of my dad, Arlie. Therefore, I am Loren’s namesake. Since the Air Force kept my name straight, I remain Loren Steenson. Thanks to Bernie for his email today alerting me that Loren’s obituary had been placed online. It was not there the few times I previously looked. I very much enjoyed the obituary. Again, my sympathies.

  6. My thoughts of sympathy are with with you both VInce & Lee. I have some fond memories working with you and your dad at CE Natco in the summer of 1979. He was a man of humility and quick wit. He was a hard worker and I always enjoyed my time with him at work. He was a true gentleman and most definitely has been welcomed with open arms to the heavenly kingdom. God Bless your families always.


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