Bruce V. Ellefson

Bruce V. Ellefson, 91, of Osceola, formerly of Luck and Milltown, Wisconsin passed away on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at the Christian Community Home in Osceola.  Bruce was born on December 22, 1924 in Cushing, Wisconsin the son of Bredo and Theresa (Tendrup) Ellefson.

For eight years Bruce attended Lanesdale School where Howard Jorgenson was his one and only teacher.   After Lanesdale, he worked for various farmers in the area and in South Dakota, and later, worked for his uncle in Worthington, MN.

Toward the end of World War II, Bruce joined the Navy and trained at Great Lakes Naval Station.  He was honorably discharged after his service and began working for companies in Minneapolis.   When on a weekend break, Bruce met Helen Volkman at the West Sweden Dance Hall. In 1948 they were married at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Pequot Lakes, MN and enjoyed a life together of 53 years. They had three children, Randi, Wayne and Lori.

Bruce enjoyed fishing and would often travel to Canada as soon as work ended to spend time on the lake.   While holding down a variety of work positions, he continued to fish, hunt and farm.   Throughout his life, Bruce worked hard to support his family in their many varied activities.   He was a simple man who could be thrilled by seeing a beautiful field of corn or watching deer across the road grazing.

In 1988, Bruce formally retired from FMC Corporation and enjoyed many years of good health as well as some challenges along the way. His special friend, Marian Johnson, was a loving companion for him during the final years of his life before and after they entered the Christian Community Home of Osceola where he received excellent care until his last hours. The family also appreciates the ministry provided by Rev. Ralph Thompson of Luck Lutheran Church as well as the many family members who regularly visited Bruce in the Community Home.   

Bruce leaves to celebrate his memory: his children, Randi Ellefson, Oklahoma City, OK; Wayne (Barb) Ellefson, Elk River, MN; and Lori Bade (Ken Fulton), Baton Rouge, LA; grandson, Michael (Alisha) Bade, Sachse, TX; brother, Orlin (Linda) Ellefson, sister, Lois Jacobson, brother, Johnny (Karen) Ellefson, special friend, Marian Johnson, nieces, nephews and other loving family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Bredo and Theresa Ellefson, his wife, Helen Ellefson, brother, Bryce Ellefson and brother-in-law, Robert Jacobson

Funeral services will be held at Luck Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 2:00 P.M.  Bruce’s family will greet visitors at the Luck Lutheran Church beginning 1:00 P.M. until the time of service.  Pastor Ralph Thompson will officiate the service.

 Following the funeral service Bruce will be laid to rest alongside his wife Helen at Laketown Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Kurt Dreger, Aaron Ellefson, Darrin Ellefson, Devlyn Ellefson, Mark Ellefson and Austin Memmer.  Please join the family at the church for a light lunch and fellowship following the cemetery service.

Memorials are preferred to Luck Lutheran Church.

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