Henry Nodland Jr., 87

Henry G. Nodland Jr., 87, Alexandria, passed peacefully of natural causes on December 22, 2010.

Born February 1, 1923 to Henry and Jorgina (Borstad) Nodland in Dawson, Henry graduated from Starbuck High School in 1941. He enlisted in the U.S. Army ROTC program, attending the University of Minnesota. In 1944, upon receiving a degree in engineering, Henry served his country as an officer in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.

On July 3, 1944, Henry was united in marriage to the love of his life, Margaret Sanvik, at St. Kevins Catholic Church in Minneapolis. Henry and Margaret shared 65 years of marriage. Their love and support for each other was an inspiration to all who knew them. The couple for more than 60 years lived and raised a loving family in the same home they built overlooking Noonan Park in Alexandria. Family was the centerpiece of his and Margaret’s life. Together they enjoyed time with family and friends at home and on the lake. Henry was an avid golfer, hunter, sportsman and family man. Throughout his life Henry was very dedicated to Alexandria; he took great pride in his community and supported many local organizations.

Henry was the owner and past president/CEO of Nodland Construction Co. of Alexandria. Nodland Construction was founded by his father, Henry G. Nodland Sr. in the mid 1930s. Under Henry Nodland’s guidance starting in 1954, Nodland Construction grew into one of Minnesota’s oldest and well respected construction firms.

Until recently Henry had been involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, and he thrived on seeing projects completed. During his tenure, the firm completed projects all over Minnesota, the Dakotas and Wisconsin. Henry considered the employees of Nodland Construction his extended family. Nodland Construction Co. and the projects they completed brought him great pride and a sense of accomplishment.

Henry is survived by his son, Richard (Colleen) of Alexandria; daughters, Barbara Childs of Littleton, Colorado, Mary Hegg of Boise, Idaho; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Adeline; his wife, Margaret; and one daughter, Ann Marie.

Funeral Services for Henry will be held Wednesday December 29 at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church, 822 Douglas Ave.. Alexandria. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to: Douglas County Social Services, 809 Elm Street, Alexandria, MN 56308 or Alexandria Golf Club, Attn: Driving Range Improvements Project, County Road 42, Alexandria, MN 56308.

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

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