Vernon Holte, 89

The Rev. Vernon Ellsworth Holte, 89, Alexandria, passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2012.

The youngest son of Henry and Inga Holte, Vernon was born March 9, 1923 in Upham, ND. He was brought to the Lord in Holy Baptism on April 15, 1923, and he publicly confirmed his faith on October 24, 1937.

A 1944 graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Vern then joined the U.S. Navy during World War II, first as a radioman, and later serving as a navy chaplain. He achieved the rank of lieutenant commander.

After Navy duty, Vernon entered Luther Seminary in St. Paul. While there, he met and married Elaine Montana Leean. Vern graduated in 1950, and served as pastor to congregations on both coasts, as well as South Dakota and North Dakota.

Vernon was also administrator-chaplain of Lutheran nursing homes in NY, OH, ND, and also at Knute Nelson in Alexandria from 1966-1974.

Vernon and Elaine celebrated 64 years of loving marriage on March 19 of this year.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Elaine, of Edgewood Vista, Alexandria; son, Paul (Robin), a Lutheran pastor in Neenah, WI; daughter, Judi (John) Dahlseng, musician, Lowry; son, Philip (Jené), a carpenter in Enumclaw, WA; son, Peter (Dori), a consultant in North Branch; and son, David, an actor in Los Angeles, CA. He was also blessed by grandchildren, Jessica (Dan) Polcyn , Karianna Holte, Serena Holte, Jeff (Lisa) Dahlseng, Wendi (Andrew) Ainsworth, Mikaila Dahlseng, Skyler (Anne) Dahlseng, Lance Holte, Anya Holte, Shane Holte, Adam Holte, Abraham Holte, and Elias Holte; and great-grandchildren, Zach, Abbey, Megan and Ada Dahlseng.

Funeral arrangements were handled by Anderson Funeral Home of Alexandria. Graveside interment with military honors will be held in the spring of 2013 at Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff of Edgewood Vista Home for their attentive care, love and compassion in caring for Vernon the past three years.

Vernon had an unparalleled appreciation for life and a warm smile for everyone, whether they might be family, friend, or brand-new acquaintance. At this time of counting blessings, all who were fortunate to have been a part of his life join in Thanksgiving for Vernon, and his joyous homecoming to the Kingdom of Heaven.

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

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