John Bjerknes, 77

John Bjerknes, 77, died December 9, 2008 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria.

John was born February 28, 1931 in Gonvick to Henry and Josie (Holte) Bjerknes. He was baptized and confirmed at Samhold Lutheran Church in Gonvick. John graduated from Gonvick High School in 1949. After graduation he left for the Twin Cities to seek employment.

In 1951, after a short time working on construction at Fort Snelling, he began working for Red Owl Stores where he worked until the company was sold. He then worked for the successor, Super Valu, in their Cub Foods stores for two years before retiring at the age of 60.

John was a member of the Food Handlers Local 653A and had a very good work ethic. He helped open several new stores, working at times as produce manager, dairy manager, assistant manager and stock control manager at several Minneapolis supermarkets. He lived in Bloomington until health issues necessitated a move to live with his brother, Jim and wife, Jo for three years. In 2006, he moved to Knute Nelson as his health became a issue.

He is survived by two sisters, Irene Heisey of Harrisburg, PA, Muriel (Parnell) Myhrum of Sneads Ferry, NC; brother, James (Joan) Bjerknes of Alexandria; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Morris, Jerome, Kenneth, George “Bud” and Bernard.

Memorial services were held on Monday, December 15 at Knute Nelson Chapel with Chaplain Jim Oakland officiating. There will also be a memorial service in the spring at Samhold Lutheran Church in Gonvick.

Honorary pallbearers were his nephews. Burial was at Samhold Lutheran Cemetery in Gonvick.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

A00009B2008DC17

Tags: john, bjerknes