Carmen Hemquist, 88

Carmen Morris Hemquist, 88, a lifelong resident of Parkers Prairie, died Wednesday, January 23, 2013, at St. William's Living Center.

Carmen was born October 20, 1924 to Oscar and Alice (Lukken) Hemquist in Parkers Prairie. He was baptized April 12, 1925 and confirmed May 1, 1938 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church by the Rev. Lampbert Engwall.

He attended District #236 School for eight years. He served in the U.S. Merchant Marines during WWII for two years. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Parkers Prairie.

Carmen was united in marriage to Agnes Schiewe June 10, 1948, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. Following their marriage, they made their home four miles northeast of Parkers Prairie, where they raised their five daughters.

Carmen hauled milk for 10 years and worked for the Otter Tail County Highway Department for six years. He crushed rock and drove truck for Wayne Lee Construction out of Alexandria for 21 years. He cut wood, neatly stacked it and sold it as firewood. He loved being in the woods and cut wood for enjoyment. He was a wiz with small gas engines and could fix anything that didn't work.

He helped his neighbors with their tractors and small engines and was an excellent inventor. He enjoyed driving his homemade wheelchair and old fashioned show tractors in the Parkers Prairie Fall Fest parade. He was a member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church and former church council member for six years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #219.

Carmen is survived by his wife of 64 years, Agnes; five daughters, Sharon (Larry) Carlson, Linda (Rodney) Moske, both of Parkers Prairie, Kathleen (Morley) Carlson of Albertville, Vicki (Roger) Hermes of Alexandria and Brenda (Dr. Dan) Johnson of Litchfield; nine grandchildren, Raymie (Don) Emslander, Anthony (Michelle) Moske, Kevin Moske, Shannon (Rich) Hanousek, Shelley (Keith) Ben, Ryan Hermes, Robin (Travis) Lawrence, Andrea Carlson and Amy (Jonathan) Jewell; eight great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Samantha, Christopher, Benjamin, Rose, Cody, Caleb and Charlie; two great-great-grandchildren; along with nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Justin Carlson; and brother, Carroll Hemquist.

Memorial services were held Saturday, January 26 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie with the Rev. Jonathan Sorum officiating. Music was provided by organist, Julie Lindgren and vocalist, Dedra Zwieg. Burial was at Swedish Lutheran Cemetery with full military honors.

Urn bearer was his grandson, Ryan Hermes. Honorary urn bearers were his remaining grandchildren and dear friend, Arlo Peterson.

Arrangements are with Lind Family Funeral and Cremation Service, www.lindfamilyfh.com.

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