Russell Amundson, 87

Russell Verdi Amundson, 87, Benson, died Sunday, February 1, 2009 at Southview Manor in Benson.

Russell was born June 12, 1921 in Pembina County, North Dakota, the son of Arthur O. and Mabel (Molden) Amundson. He was baptized as an infant and confirmed into the Christian faith June 14, 1936 at Big Bend Lutheran Church. He grew up in rural Big Bend and attended country school. He graduated from Appleton High School and went on to attend welding school in Shakopee. Russell served his country in the United States Army from 1942 to 1945, during World War II, as a tech 4 welder. On October 1, 1948, Russell was united in marriage to Alvina Mae Hagen at Swift County Hospital by the justice of the peace. This union was blessed with seven children. They were able to share in 60 years of marriage.

Russell worked for Powell Auto Company in Montevideo and Thursbys in Benson. He later owned Amundson’s Inc. with his brothers. He was a member of the VFW and St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Benson. Among the things he enjoyed were farming, fishing, hunting, old-time music, playing cards and playing his violin. He could really cut a rug, and he loved life on the farm. He was considered one of the best auto mechanics in the area.

Russell is survived by his wife, Alvina, of Benson; his children, Glenn (Diane) Amundson of Donnelly, Jim (Helen) Amundson of Benson, Cheryl (Roland) Sandberg of Hutchinson, Randall (Lori) Amundson of Danvers, Mark (Barb) Amundson of Ortonville, and David (Grace) Amundson of Benson; 18 grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Wayne (Marie) Amundson of Benson; a sister, Darlene (Al) Lee of CoosBay, OR; and other relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Arthur and Mabel; a stillborn son, Dean Amundson; his grandson, Joshua Amundson; a grandchild; his brothers, Alfred, Ray and Walter Amundson; and a sister, Adeline Nordby.

Funeral services were held Thursday, February 5 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Benson with the Rev. Dennis Mc Manus officiating. Burial was at Benson City Cemetery.

Arrangements are with the Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson; www.zniewskifuneralhome

.com.

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