Herman O. Ekelund

Herman Ekelund, 88 of Big Sandy Lake passed away peacefully  on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at his home after spending the day with his family by his side.  He was born July 28, 1931 in Aitkin to Richard & Ethel (Warner) Ekelund minutes after his twin brother, Harry. Graduating from McGregor High School in 1949, he then joined the Navy with Harry. He was stationed at Whidbey Island, Washington where he served as a radio operator on a P2V Neptune Patrol Bomber during the Korean War for 4 years and Flying a total of 1800 hours.  In 1952 at Mt. Vernon, Washington, Herman was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart and lifetime love, Doree Boelter.  They had a double ceremony with twin brother Harry and his fiance’ Barbara just before leaving for a 6 month tour in Japan.  Together they raised their family in the Big Sandy Lake area. He worked with his father Richard at his small sawmill which later became Ekelund Lumber. Ekelund Lumber is well known for its native paneling which is showcased around in many of the local homes and businesses, including Grace Lutheran Church.  Herman was active in the Larson-Deneen VFW Post and American Legion. He and his brother Harry proudly carried the colors for Memorial Day Services for over 50 years. He taught his family the meaning of patriotism and that you always stand for the American Flag.  Herman was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Also an avid hunter and fisherman that loved to share his passion for the outdoors with his family and friends.  He never missed a chance to make any occasion fun. The highlight of our family gatherings were always fish fry’s with the big Northerns from his spear house, with a close second being his famous deep fried turkeys. He will be missed by many – the void he leaves will be hard to fill.   

He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers: Wally, Cliff, Pete, and Ralph, sister Doris Eddy, infant granddaughter, and his special Uncle Lyman. 

Herman is survived by his wife of 67 years, Doree, Son: Gordon Ekelund, 2 Daughters and sons-in-law: Jeanne (Hank) Mosier, and June (Jon) Hawkinson ,Brother Harry Ekelund,

Grandchildren: Jenny, Joanee, Jordan, Jamie, Nicholas, Mindy and his honorary grandson Scott. Great grandchildren: Kessiah, Kaleb, Brandon, Katy, Oliver, Sven, Niko, Isaac, Ella, and “Baby Koen, on the way”, Special niece: Diane; and many other special relatives and friends.

The Ekelund family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Arnold and the Riverwood Healthcare staff for the compassionate care that was given by all.

Funeral service will be 1:00P.M. – Saturday, February 8, 2020 at Grace Lutheran Church, McGregor.  Reverend Cheryl Fleckenstein will officiate.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church.  Private Burial will be in Pine Needle Cemetery.  Military honors will be accorded by McGregor VFW Post #2747 and American Legion Post #23.  Arrangements are with McGregor Funeral Home & Cremation Services of McGregor.  www.srtfuneral.com                                                                                                

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