Neperud Even
Neperud Gilbert H.
Neperud Gilbert H. Mrs.
Neperud Mattie Mrs.
Neperud Oline Mrs.
Neperud Oluf
Neprud Stener H.
Nerby Halvor
Nerby John Hanson Mrs.
Nergeng Nickolai H.
Nerison Gunhild
Nerison John
Nerison Neri
Nerison Peder
Nesheim Herborg
Nesheim Johannes
Ness G. W.
Ness Gilbert
Ness Gilbert G. Mrs.
Ness Lars
Ness Ole N.
Nettom Gulbrand A. Mrs.
Newgaard Emil
Newgard Emil Mrs.
Nichols Annie Mrs.
Nichols Martha (wife of Gunder Nicholson)
Nicholson Gunder
Nicholson Gunhild
Nicholson Severt
Nilsestuen Martha Mrs.
Nilson Peter
Nimmo John H.
Nokelby John
Nordahl Olof E. Mrs.
Nordby Johan Larson
Nordhus Axel
Nordhus John
Nordhus Paul O.
Nordhus Paul 2
Nordness Ragnild Mrs.
Nordstrum Karl Olson
Noren Harold H.
Norland Peter Mrs.
Nyberg Hans
Nyberg Nels
Nyberg Nels Mrs.
Nyenb Maren Mrs.
Nyen Ole Sr.
Nyen Ole Mrs.
Nyen Victor
Nygaard Even Christianson
Nyseth Lisa
Nyseth Olaus
Nyseth Olaus Mrs.
Nysven Ole
NELS NYBERG:(TOTEN)
"Nels A. Nyberg was born February 15, 1859 in Toten, Norway, son of Andrew Hanson and Tonetta Olson. He came to America at the age of 21, coming directly to the Olous Knutson home in Daggett coulee. On March 10, 1885, he was united in marriage to Jorgine Shellerud and to this union seven sons were born, of whom Oscar and Melvin of Pigeon Falls, August of Whitehall, Thorvald and Selmer of Blair survive. He also leaves five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A brother Hans died December 27, 1944.
Mr. Nyberg spent his entire life on the farm he bought following his marriage except for several winters in logging camps and several summers working in sawmills at LaCrosse. For 62 years he lived a quiet and peaceful, though industrious life on his home place until his sudden death on December 22, 1947, at the age of 88 years, 10 months and six days.
Funeral services were held the following Saturday at the Sletteland funeral home and the S.L. church at Pigeon Falls, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. The hymn "I Know of a Sleep in Jesus' Name' was sung by the pastor at the funeral home, and at the church he sang, "Den Store Hvide Flok." Pallbearers were three sons and three grandsons, Oscar, August and Melvin Nyberg and Nels, Rolf and Adolph Nyberg, who carried him to his last resting place in the church cemetery. Blessed be his memory." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - January 8, 1948
MRS. NELS NYBERG:(TOTEN)
"Mrs. Nels Nyberg was born December 28, 1866 in Toten, Norway. She came to America with her parents, Stener and Karine Skjellrud in 1870. They settled in Moe Coulee where Skjellrud has lived continuously for a period of 52 years. March 10, 1885, Jorgine Skjellrud was married to Nels Nyberg. They immediately settled on the farm near the Moe Coulee school house, which through consistent and diligent work has during these 37 years, been developed into a valuable farm and a delightful home. But Mrs. Nyberg was not to linger long in the pleasant surroundings of her devoted family and relatives and many intimate friends which her agreeable and modest personality had done so much to create. Her health began to fail about a year ago. Relief sought by the aid of doctors was not realized and suddenly to the great surprise and sorrow of her friends, she passed away, November 10, 1922 at the Whitehall Community hospital. She died confessing her faith in her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Tuesday, November 14, she was brought to her last earthly resting place in the cemetery of the Synod Lutheran church in Pigeon Falls, where a great number of people attended the funeral . In addition to the flowers placed upon the casket, gifts in the form of money were given by the Ladies Aid and others to charitable institutions of the Lutheran church as a tribute to her memory. The following near relatives survive her: Her husband and five sons, her aged parents and two brothers and three sisters. Blessed be the memory of Mrs Nels Nyberg." WHITEHALL TIMES BANNER/BLAIR PRESS - November 30, 1922
HANS NYBERG:(OSLO)
"Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the Sletteland funeral parlors and at the S.L. Lutheran church in Pigeon Falls for Hans Nyberg, 89, who died at the Whitehall Community Hospial December 27 following a short illness. The Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiated and also sang "Den Store Hvide Flok". Pall bearers were nephews, Selmer, Oscar, Melvin and August Nyberg and great-nephews, Ralph and Adolph Nyberg. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Hans Nyberg was born November 7, 1855 near Oslo, Norway, the son of Andrew Hanson and his wife, Tonetta Olson. As a young man he learned the baker's trade. At the age of 20 he came to America, first stopping at the home of his cousin, the late Brede Olson in the town of Pigeon. He spent 16 winters in the lumber camps of northern Wisconsin, working as a cook because of his experience along that line.
Mr. Nyberg twice returned to Norway after coming here, and on the second trip he brought a wife, Clara Reese, and together they settled on a small farm in Moe coulee, town of Pigeon, on land which is now included in the Hager and Vold farm. The couple were married on July 15, 1887, in Norway, but three years later Mrs. Nyberg died, leaving her husband with the care of a small daughter, who early in childhood became crippled from a disease that Mr. Nyberg later believed may have been infantile paralysis. She lived until she was 16 years old.
In 1916 Mr. Nyberg disposed of his land and moved to Whitehall, where he had since resided in the home he purchased on Main Street. He is survived by one brother, Nels Nyberg of the town of Pigeon. He had been one of a family of eight children." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - January 4, 1945
LISA NYSETH: (VESTRE TOTEN)
"Lisa Nyseth passed away at the Whitehall Community hospital September 25, 1952. She was 86 years and seven months old. Funeral services were held for her at the S.L. church at Pigeon Falls, Saturday, September 27, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Miss Nyseth was born in Vestre Toten, Norway, February 28, 1866, the daughter of Andreas and Pernille Nysethhagen. In 1883 she came to America, to the home of her brother, the late Olus Nyseth, who had settled in the Pigeon community.
Lisa was the youngest of six children and the last member of her family to pass away. Her nearest surviving relatives are three nieces and a nephew, Mrs. Oscar Vesta, Mrs. Henry Tangen, Mrs. Max Elmon, and Adolf Nyseth." THE WHITEALL TIMES - October 23, 1952
OLAUS NYSETH: (VESTRE TOTEN)
"Olaus Nyseth, a pioneer settler and long-time resident of Whitehall and vicinity, passed away December 13 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Henry Tangen, at the age of 84 years, 3 months and 25 days. His death was preceded by a brief illness.
Olaus Nyseth was born September 18, 1862 in Vestre Toten, Norway. He was the son of Andreas and Pernille Hanson. He spent his young manhood there. In May, 1883, at the age of 21, Olaus sailed for America. After his arrival in America he made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Brede Rodfoss for a time.
The court house in Whitehall was being erected at this time and Mr. Nyseth secured employment there. He also worked in a sawmill at LaCrosse and as a cook on Beef river in a logging camp
In 1889 Mr. Nyseth was united in marriage to Mina Ress, who was also a native of Toten, Norway. Shortly after their marriage he bought an 80 acre farm in Pigeon. Here they resided until 1921, when they sold their farm to their son Adolph and moved to Whitehall, which was his home for 26 years. In 1945 his world was darkened by the loss of his eyesight. From then until his death he lived with his daughters.
Funeral services were held Monday, December 15, with a prayer at the home of Henry Tangen followed by services at the Pigeon Falls Synod Lutheran church, the Rev. E.B. Christophersen officiating. Mrs. E.A. Sletteland sang "Den doende Pilegrim" and Rev. Christophersen sang "Den store hvide flok" at the song service. Flowers were carried by Phyllis Tangen and Eleanor Vesta. Pall bearers were Olaf Larson, Elmer Larson, William Iverson, Hjalmer Foss, Carl Tomte and Lucas Ekern. Surviving Mr. Nyseth are four children, Adolph, Martha, Mrs. Oscar Vesta; Palma, Mrs. Henry Tangen; Mabel, Mrs. Max Eimon; one sister Miss Lisa Nyseth, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, who passed away in 1923, a son Nels, a World War I veteran who died in 1928 and another son in infancy.
Olaus Nyseth was a good neighbor, a kind father and a highly respected citizen." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - January 9, 1947
MRS. OLAUS NYSETH: (OSTRE TOTEN)
"Mrs. Olaus Nyseth was born in Ostre Toten, Norway, April 25, 1857, the youngest daughter of Nils and Marie Rise. Of seven sisters only one survives, Berte Maria, living in Norway. She was baptized and confirmed in Hoff's church Ostre Toten, by Pastor Bie.
Mrs. Nyseth came to America in 1888 with her sister and brother-in-law, Hans Nyberg. Was united in marriage to Olaus Nyseth in June 1889. Settled on the land that is now the old Nyseth homestead in 1890, where she spent thirty years, going thru all the hardships incidental in making a home in those times. While her husband worked in the woods during the winter and on the river during the spring, she was in charge of the work on the farm and it was not always an easy task for a woman to overcome all the problems confronting her. In these modern times, few can realize what hardships one had to endure during those pioneer days.
Mrs. Nyseth was not blessed wth great physical strength so it often taxed her perserverance to accomplish her task. She did not care for social prominence, but felt that it was the duty of the wife and mother to establish a Christian home and it was here that her character stood out. Her cheerful willingness to relieve any real distress, her talent and charms endeared her to all.
Mrs. Nyseth was early bereft by the death of her sister who came to America with her, and this was hard to bear, as it was for her sister's sake that she came to this country.
In the summer of 1920 Mr. and Mrs. Nyseth sold the farm to their son, Adolph, and established a home in Whitehall to spend their remaining years in a more leisurely manner. Last summer Mrs. Nyseth began to fail and felt that she was not able to do her own work, so went to stay with her daughters for the winter, staying with Mrs Henry Tangen until January 29, then went to the home of Mrs. Max Eimon, where she passed away on March 1, 1927. She is survived by her husband, Olaus Nyseth and five children: Adolph Nyseth, Whitehall; Mrs. Oscar Vesta, Osseo; Mrs. Henry Tangen, Whitehall; Nels Nyseth, Colorado Springs, Colo.; Mrs. Max Eimon, Osseo. One boy died in infancy." THE WHITEHALL TIMES - March 10, 1927
MARTHA NICHOLS (TELEMARK)
Martha Nichols, pioneer wife and mother, gone to her reward at the age of 91 years and 20 days. The outstanding events in this good woman�s life can be told in a dozen sentences for hers was the common lot. The steady, orderly routine of a faithful, dutiful wife and mother, whose activities were confined to her home and neighborhood. There were in her life no idiosyncrasies of genius, no irregularities of riotous passion or ambitions, no spectacular exhibitions of contempt for accepted standards of morals or conventions. Steadied and guided by the teachings of her parents and church, she worked the path of life with an unfaltering faith that all would be well at the end of her journey. Rest and toil, pain and pleasures, successes and reverses, prosperity and adversity, were to all parts of her Creator�s plans and purposes. Therefore, in her was no spirit of rebellion against things that are and things that seem. Like a brook beginning in quiet solitudes and flowing gently onward with an ever increasing volume, water countless roots of herbs and trees and with its vapors distilling life-giving elements upon the surrounding meadows and forests, she moved noiselessly over the long course of her journey connected to disperse the gifts that God had given her. It is impossible to estimate the influence of a human life. The poet Tennyson, in his �Bugle Song,� makes one of the most beautiful comparisons found in English literature between the physical echoes and the echoes of human life. After invoking the bugle to set the echoes flying, he pauses to explain, �O love, they die in yon rich sky. They faint on hill or field or river; Our echoes roll from soul to soul. And grow forever and forever.� Perhaps Tennyson in his emphasis of the far reaching influence of our lives, under-estimated the effect of the physical echo as revealed by science and discoveries in these later years. But he left us in no uncertainty as to his estimate of the profound effect of our conduct upon the lives of others. This departed woman , during her long life gave love, sympathy and service beyond measure. Men hungry, weary and often depressed by hardships and disappointments, came to her humble home during the long and strenuous pioneer years and found kindness, comfort and courage. They left her home with greater mental and bodily vigor. They carried with them the light of her smiles, the music of her kind words and the atmosphere of her genial presence. And these echoes of her life were, in a greater or lesser measure, repeated by them as they came in contact with other lives. She planted flowers and even the passing stranger found delight in their beauty and fragrance. She was the mother of many children and they inevitably carry with them in their social contacts innumerable echoes of mother love and tenderness. Thus, the logic of Tennyson�s lines leads us to the conclusion that neither time nor space puts a limit to the influence of this departed soul. She �lives again in lives made better by her presence.� Mrs. Nichols was born May 13, 1837, in Telemarken, the same district in Norway that her husband, Gunder, came from, a district where every brook, rock, tree, hill and mountain is eloquent with sagas, legends and romances, whose echoes will be heard till the end of mortal time. Only a few years of her childhood were spent there. Then her parents moved to Arendal, a seacoast town. In 1842 she came with her widowed mother to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and from there to Dodge County, this state. In 1859, with her mother, Ragnhild, she came to Jackson County, where they found a home with her future husband, to whom she was married June 14, 1859, by Truman Hollenback, a Justice of the Peace and first settled where the village of Taylor is now located. The following named children were born to them: Nicolai, Albert, Martin, Alfred, Jennie, Sina, Hanna, Clara and Ida. All of these survive their parents except Alfred, who died in Puerto Rico, a victim of the Spanish-American war, and Ida who died at home in young womanhood. Mrs. Nichols enjoyed a remarkable degree of health until a short time before her death and until within a year or two before she passed away, her memory and mental balance were almost perfect. Her geniality and habit of pleasing remained with her to the last. She died at her home in the town of Springfield on June 3, 1928. Her funeral, conducted by Rev. Sweger of Blair, was held at the Trempealeau Valley church June 6. And there, in the shadow of the first Norwegian church built in Trempealeau Valley, she rests, surrounded by a host of the first Norwegian pioneers in this valley. I prize the privilege of having known this pioneer mother. With the exception of Mrs. Gunder Anderson, she is the last of that early group of settlers who came to Mound Springs in the fifties who have continued as residents in that neighborhood. They were a fine group of men and women. Blessed are their memories. Written by H.A. Anderson, June 10, 1928 THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 14, 1928
GUNDER NICHOLSON (TELEMARK)
Gunder Nicholas as he was usually called, was born on a small farm known as Trmyr, in Fyriedal, Upper Telemarken, Norway, January 6th, 1835. His father, Nichol-probably an abbreviation from Nickolaus-Gunderson and mother, Gro Johannesdatter, came to Racine, Wisconsin with a large family of children in 1852. The day after they landed in Racine , the father died from cholera. Gunder and John being the oldest boys in the family were immediately confronted with the duty of supporting their mother and the younger children. Gunder found a job in Chicago which netted him about seventy-five dollars for a season�s services. About the first day of June, 1854, Gro Gunderson, with her children and several friends and relatives, left Racine for some undetermined point further west and north. When they came to Black River Falls, they intended going farther north, but were turned from their purpose by a conversation they had with a man whom they met there, who gave a favorable account of Trempealeau Valley. The deceased was the last living witness as to the incidents of this trip, and its circumstances, and a few years ago he told the writer that the party he accompanied reached Mound Spring in the town of Springfield, Jackson county, about July 15, 1854. The members of his family at that time were his mother, Gro Gunderson, his brothers, Johannes and Ole, and sisters, Marget, Gunil, Ingeborg, Anna and Maria. All of these girls became wives of men prominent in the early history of the community. Marget married Knudt Storley, still living; Gunil married John Tytegrav; Anna married Alec Mattson; Ingeborg married H.A. Bright; and Marie married Absolom Erickson, Erickson still living. The subject of this sketch was married to Martha Torgersdatter, June 14, 1859. From this union ten children were born. One died in infancy. Alfred, a son, fell a victim of the Spanish-American war at Puerto Rico. One daughter, Ida, unmarried, died at home at about the age of 25 years. Nicolai, the oldest son, lives on the farm which was for many years the home of his parents. Albert has a harness shop in Taylor. Martin lives at home with his mother. Gina Dickey lives at Hudson, Wisconsin. Sina Seely lives at Rib Lake, Wisconsin. Hannah and Clara live with their mother. Martha, the mother, though nearly 88 years, is still in fair health and mentally and physically very active. Mr. Nichols was of the type of men that stick. For seventy years he made his home within a mile or two of the place where he camped when he first came to the town of Springfield. This was not because he lacked energy and ambition, for he was a man eminently active mentally and physically. Although he suffered considerably from bodily infirmities during the last six years, his mind was keen, alert and clear almost up to the time of his death. I called on him the last time in the summer just passed. This was the first time I had to visit with him when he was in bed. His body had failed, but his memory was still good. I remember how at this time he ascribed his infirmities to the fact that as a boy he herded cattle, sheep and goats in Norway, day after day while mists, rains and sleet chilled him to his very marrow. Only for a minute or two did the memory of these hardships cloud his spirit, for memories of bright days came to him when the woods were impearled with dew, and falling waters caught and held all the colors of sunbeams. Then he laughed as he recalled a peculiar habit of cattle in Norway, which frequently caused herders much trouble. The cattle might be quietly grazing, some of them even lying down contentedly chewing their cud, when all of a sudden one of the herd would emit a short bellow and rush off with head up and ears erect while the tail stood straight out like a balancing pole. This was the signal for the whole herd to follow at break-neck speed. If several herds happened to be in the same pasture at such times, it was a merry sight to see. This spasm of fear, or whatever it was, would pass almost as quickly as it came. Then the cattle would stop and look almost as foolish as humans that have perpetuated some prank that didn�t pan out well. Thus from his sickbed, though the rose colored glasses of memory, he survived the years of his youth and was glad. In justice to the living, I wish to say that if ever a husband and father had watched with tender care, this departed patriarch among pioneers certainly did. Constantly besides him was his partner of 65 years, standing ready to minister to him every possible comfort And there were his daughters, Hannah and Clara, always ready to make his home a pleasant haven during his declining years. And there was his son Martin to look after outside matters about the home. And finally there was his son Nicolai who during the six years of his father�s illness served as nurse and attendant in all matters where skill and experience were required. Faithful unto death were his wife and children. On October 26th, he passed to his final rest. The funeral was held at Trempealeau Valley Church on Wednesday, October 29th, conducted by Rev. Sweger. His wife and all his children were present except Albert, who was prevented by sickness from attending. Now he sleeps with a host of the earliest settlers around him beside the church he helped to build 57 years ago. Written by H.A. Anderson, November 2, 1924 THE TAYLOR HERALD - NOVEMBER 7, 1924
Researching this family is Sheila The sisters of Gunder and their mother Gro-Grace in the US, all went by the surname of NICHOLS, all the sons of Grace and Nicolas GUNDERSEN went by the surname of NICHOLSON.
JOHN H. NIMMO (DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
John H. Nimmo, a long time resident of Jackson county, passed away Friday night, May 11, 1951, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ernest P. Manthe, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. He was 91 years old. His illness was of short duration and death was attributed to the infirmities of old age. He had lived a full and active life and the old machine was just worn out. Mr. Nimmo, the son of Richard and Agnes (Henderson) Nimmo, was born in Cambridge, Dane county, Wisconsin on September 4, 1859 and at the time of his death, he had attained the ripe old age of 91 years, 8 months and 7 days. He was one of a family of six children, three girls and three boys and was the last survivor of the original Nimmo family. In the year 1877 he came to Jackson county to live and this has been his residence with the exception of nine years when he owned and operated a farm near Sparta. On September 12, 1880, he was united in marriage to Clara B. Trumble, and to this union two children were born: Mrs. Ernest P. Manthe, of Black River Falls, and Clifford C. Nimmo, of Melrose, who are left to mourn his passing. He also leaves eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. Mr. and Mrs. Nimmo celebrated their gold wedding anniversary on September 12, 1930. Hs wife passed away on August 10, 1934, and since her death he had spent the winters with his daughter, Mrs. Manthe, and the summers in his home in Melrose until the year 1943 when he went to make his permanent home with his daughter. Funeral services were held on Monday afternoon, May 14, 1951, at the Methodist church in Melrose with Rev. Wayne Grover, of Black River Falls, and Rev. Leo K. Mader, of Melrose, conducting the religious services. Mrs. H.L. Gilbertson and Mrs. Claire Kunes sang "In the Garden" and "Rock of Ages" with Mrs. Z.W. Gilbert at the piano. Arrangements were in charge of Funeral Director Leonard B. Smith, of Galesville, and memorials were many and beautiful. Those who bore his body to it last resting place were Charles Ristow, Eugene Greenlee and Ubbe Anderson of Black River Falls, and Z.W. Gilbert, Leo Martin and H.L. Gilbertson of Melrose. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
VICTOR NYEN (RURAL BLAIR, WISCONSIN)
Victor Nyen, 38, passed away at the Whitehall hospital on Tuesday morning, October 12, 1943, after three years of ill health. In an effort to regain his health, he submitted to surgical operations December 1, 1942, December 24, 1942, January 16, 1943 and April 8, 1943. The battle seemed to have been won in the spring and he spent the summer in seemingly good recuperation. However, his health began to fail again in early September and he rapidly lost strength until his death which was caused by varied pneumonia and pleurisy. Norman Victor Nyen was born September 6, 1905 in Lakes Coulee to Oscar O. Nyen and Tillie Haukom. He was brought to baptism on October 22 which was administered to him at the First Lutheran church by the sainted Rev. S.S. Urberg who also confirmed him in the same church on May 4, 1919. He grew up at home and remained at home after he attained manhood. April 29, 1939 he was united in marriage with Orvella Odegaard at Decorah, Iowa. They made their home with his parents where he was engaged in farming with his father. He is survived by his widow Orvella, a daughter Grace Marie, his parents, three brothers, Harry, Basil and Odell and a sister Vera, Mrs. F. Bergum. A sister Gladys died in 1920 at the age of six and another sister died in infancy. Funeral services were conducted Friday, October 15 at the home in Lakes Coulee and the First Lutheran church with the Rev. Konrad Urberg officiating. Mrs. Melvin Madsen sang �The Old Rugged Cross� and �Abide with Me� and Rev. Urberg sang �Jeg veed mig en Sovn I Jesu Navn.� Pallbearers were Harvey and Vernon Nyen, Arthur Solberg, Theodore Anderson, LeRoy Quarne and Otto Odegaard. Flowerbearers were Doris Anderson, Genevieve Haug, Mrs. Dorothy Odegaard Burt, Mrs. Arthur Solberg, Mrs. Goodwin Anderson and Mrs. Stanley Ouradnik. Interment was in the family burial lot at Rest Haven. O help us, death Father, and Christ, Thou the Son, That gladly our course we may finish! And Thou, Holy Spirit, Thou comforting One, Thy love in our hearts so replenish, That we by Thy might May fight the good fight, Till won is the crown everlasting. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK
HALVOR NERBY (SOLAR)
Funeral services for Halvor Nerby were held Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran church. The Rev. Wilbert Winkler officiated with burial in the church cemetery. Halvor Nerby, 88, died Thursday, (February 14, 1963) at the Jackson County Infirmary in Black River Falls. He had been ill the past three years. He was born September 25, 1875, at Solar, Norway, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Nerby. He came to Jackson county as a young man. Unmarried he farmed in Vosse Coulee most of his life. Survivors include one sister, Mrs. Arndt (Minnie) Gilbertson, LaCrosse; one brother, Julius, Hixton; and several nieces and nephews. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 21, 1963
OLE N. NESS (LARDAL)
Ole N. Ness was born July 14, 1879 in Larda;, Norway, and died in a Bismark hospital, October 6, 1935 at the age of 65 years, two months and 22 days old. He came to Wisconsin with his parents in May 1872. In 1905 he came to McKenzie County and filed on a homestead eight miles northeast of Waterford City where he lived the remaining years of his life. In July 1911 he was united in marriage to Emma Erie of Owatonna, Minnesota who preceded him in death in 1928. He leaves to mourn his death one son, Ole Ubert, six sisters and one brother. The funeral services for Ole N. Ness were held in the Garden church Friday, October 11, with Rev O. B. Erikson officiating. The pallbearers were: Ole Berg, Ole Satter, O.B. Amundson, Gilbert Lee, T.I. Bergee and Lars Helseth. Interment in the Garden cemetery. Far away relatives attending the funeral were Mrs. Schansberg and Mr. and Mrs. Urlien (sisters and brother-in-law, Blair, Wisconsin), Mrs. Hallinstad (sister), Whitehall, Wisconsin; Mrs. Kroon and Evert Kroon (sister and nephew), Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Overby (sister and brother-in-law), Mrs. and Mrs. Torgerson (niece and her husband), Fairdale, North Dakota. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 14, 1935
PETER NILSON (RINGSAKER)
Peter Nilson-often written Peter Nelson-was born at Steen in Ringsaker, Norway, April 30, 1844. The place of his birth is beautifully situated near Norway�s largest and most famous lake - �Mjosen.� Mr. Nilson�s father was for many years employed by a wealthy merchant and landowner as blacksmith and supervisor of the farm known as �Steen.� According to Mrs. Kjos, a sister of the deceased, Mr. Nilson was married to Johanne Olson at Ringskaer, Christmas 1865. The following spring he and his wife took passage for U.S. on the ship Manilla. The voyage lasted six weeks and two days. June 24, they reached LaCrosse County, Wisconsin. Immediate after they arrived, Mr. Nilson went to work in haying for fifty cents a day. In the fall of the same year he hired out to the Black River Improvement Co. and continued as an employee of this company for nine years. In the early part of January, 1867, Mrs. Nilson died in childbirth. The child died about nine months later. In 1870, Mr. Nilson married Oline Jenson with whom he had three children. One child died in infancy. The other two children, Nettie and Ingeborg, died when they were about ten and twelve years old from diphtheria. In 1875, Mr. Nilson moved with his family to Fitch Coulee in the Town of Pigeon and settled on the Emert Brandon farm. Here his second wife died. After an interval of about three years, he married Bertha Nilson, his brother�s widow and sister of his second wife. By his third wife, he had nine children, one of whom died in infancy, two died from diphtheria. It is told of him that while he was making a coffin for one of his little ones, word was brought to him to make one more for another child that had been taken after he left the house Four was the number the malignant scourge demanded of this home within a comparative few days. This was about 1881. Then came the years of peace, health and comparative prosperity. In 1893, Mr. Nilson bought 160 acres of virgin land in Fly Creek. On this he soon established a comfortable home. After about six years he sold this to his oldest son, Joseph, who still occupies it. After selling this he bought a pioneer farm, first settled by Ed Cummings. He spent a few years, then sold the farm to his son, Isaac. From the Cummings farm, he moved to Whitehall where in company with George Larson, our present County Treasurer, he bought the stock and building long known as the Farmer�s Store. This was in 1908. It was about this time that he underwent a most excruciating suffering caused by an iron sliver which entered one of his eyes the result of which was the loss of the eye. For about ten years he took an active part in the business he had entered. Then he turned his share of the business over to his sons, Nels and Oscar. From that time on, he lived in comparative retirement. In 1915, occurred the death of his son, Palmer, a very likeable and promising young man who had one year left to finish his work in our high school. The following years, his son, Elmer was killed in a car accident. March 24, 1929, the woman who had for more than fifty years shared the hurts and pleasures of his life left him to enter a well-deserved rest. Twelve times death came to his home and carried away one by one his loved ones. Since the death of Bertha, his third wife, he lived with his son, Nels and family. On April 1st, he had an apparent slight stroke, but it proved to be the beginning of the end although he lingered until the evening of July 15 when he sank peacefully to rest. His funeral , held in Our Saviour�s church Monday, July 20, was very largely attended. Three pastors took part in the services, Rev. Orke, Rev. Garness and Rev. Birkeland. His surviving children, Joseph, Nels, Oscar, Isaac and Mrs. Ella Lowe were all present; also his only surviving sister, Mrs. Kjos of Pigeon Falls. Mr. Nilson was an all-around hand man and therefore a useful man wherever he came in contact with his fellowmen. He had initiative and was resourceful. He bought into Pigeon the first sorghum mill. In company with William Abbott and Jens Evenson, he operated the first steam-thresher in his community. He built houses, bridges and was always ready to repair anything at home or among his neighbors. He was extremely social, and his good humor was so contagious that even chronic pessimists found rays of hope in his presence. There were four fiddlers in Fitch Coulee at one time, Hans Samuelstad, John Ringness, August Hovern and the subject of this sketch. They took turns in hours of relaxation to entertain their neighbors. During his 87 years, Fate, Providence, or what you will, dealt our brother numerous hard blows but he always came back smiling. I never saw him discouraged, heard him complain of his own lot. He was blessed with a rugged constitution and a mental buoyancy that carried him through every surge of affliction. He was a man among men - helpful, generous and capable. Through eyes that must often have been tear-dimmed, he always saw some rainbow of promise. On hundreds of faces tears and smiles will blend when Peder Nilson is remembered. For no one who knew him will embalm his memory in grief and gloom. Written by H.A. Anderson, July 25, 1931. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JULY 30, 1931
GILBERT H. NEPERUD (BIRI)
Gilbert (Gulbrand) Hanson Neperud was born in Biri, Norway June 22, 1853, and came to U.S. in 1876. He stayed for about a year at Halfway Creek, LaCrosse County, where his oldest brother, Even, had come ten years before. In 1877 his mother, Oline, and her two youngest sons, Stener and Oluf, came to this country and in the fall of the same year the family settled on the land where Gilbert has lived ever since. The mother, who for the greater part of her life here, made her home with Gilbert, died the tenth day of February 1805 (?). The father, Hans Halvorson Neperud, died in Biri, November 3, 1874. In 1889 Gilbert married Oline Thorson. From this union were born eight children, all of whom are living except George, who died after a very brief illness, February 25, 1922. On Thursday, last week, the deceased was in town for several hours and to all who met him he seemed to be in usual health. His health has always been good and he appeared to be many years younger than he was. After returning to his home that evening he was taken ill and before midnight his condition became so serious that he was taken to the Community hospital and during the night was operated on for appendicitis. It was soon discovered, however, that he suffered from other disorders which terminated his life on September 5th. On Friday, the 8th, he was buried in the Lower church cemetery at Pigeon Falls, Rev. Orke officiating at the funeral. All of his near relatives and a host of friends and neighbors were present when he was committed to his last resting place. As this is the second unexpected and shockingly sudden death that has come to this family within a period of less than seven months, none but those who have suffered similar bereavements can understand the loneliness suffered and void occasioned by the quick going of these two sturdy men. Deceased is survived by his widow, Oline, his sons Harry, Louis, Roy and John and daughters, Ollie, Ella and Inez. IN MEMORIAM: The foregoing brief chronicle gives the usual events that occur in the average life of men, but these reveal but little of the real life. From my intimate acquaintance with deceased since 1879, when he and his two younger brothers came to school at Pigeon Falls, where I was teacher, I feel that I can speak with a fair degree of knowledge, not only of his life as a citizen and pubic servant in several fields, but also of his mental and spiritual attitude towards life. While he matured early in thoughtfulness he unfolded very slowly in self-expression. His heart, - his deepest convictions - were never on his sleeve to be read by his associates on short acquaintance. His sorrow, his joys and opinions on the biggest questions of life he carried in a silence that held him aloof from the crowd. Through all the years that I have known him I never knew him to spend an hour in gossip; I never once heard him speak of the faults of his neighbors, except when pubic duty required him to do so. He lacked many of the qualities of initiative and leadership but possessed to a marked degree the character of a safe guide and counselor. In his habits, he was neat, orderly, punctual and always unassuming. In hundreds of conversations with him I cannot recall hearing him utter an oath or unclean word. In education he took a deep interest, which is amply shown by the efforts and sacrifice he made to advance his children in the scale of knowledge. With a strength and purpose born of the deepest convictions he breasted the tides of life and the inscruitable mysteries that surround us with an abiding faith that the goodness of God is commensurate with His power and wisdom. While not a learned man, he was a deep student, ever broadening as his horizon widened through experience and study. His spiritual life was expressed by his deep sense of justice and fairness and his steady pursuit of what he considered for the best interests of the community and his country. While sincerely loyal to his adopted country he always treasured a reverent memory of his Motherland. He indeed was a splendid example of those characteristics which we prize most among our northern ancestors - orderliness, loyalty and reliability. His life was a life of silent constant activity. For many years he was chairman of his Town. At the time of his death he was town clerk, secretary of the Pigeon Mutual Insurance Co. and secretary of the York Creamery. He will be missed, his memory will be blessed and his will live long in minds made better by his presence. As I am about to lay aside the pen there comes to my mind the cry of Tenneyson�s grief stricken soul, �Oh, for the touch of a vanished hand, And the sound of a voice that is still.� Written by H.A. Anderson THE WHITEHALL TIMES - BANNER - SEPTMEBER 14, 1922
MRS. OLINE NEPERUD (BIRI)
Mrs. Oline Nepherud died of old age in the Town of Pigeon, February 10th, after but four weeks illness, being 84 years and four months of age. Mrs. Neperud was born in Biri, Norway. Her husband died 32 years ago in Norway. She leaves four sons to mourn her death, Edward and Gilbert of Pigeon; Stener of Blair; and Oluf of Northfield, Jackson County. The funeral was held yesterday at Pigeon Falls, Rev. Orke officiating. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - FEBRUARY 15, 1905
MRS. GILBERT H. NEPERUD (BIRI)
Mrs. G.H. Neperud passed away suddenly Thursday afternoon, September 2, 1948 at 5:30 while visiting her daughter, Inez, at Hammond, Wisconsin. Mrs. Neperud as Oline Thorson, was born September 20, 1869 in Biri, Norway to Torger and Regina Thorson. Had she lived until September 20, she would have been 79 years of age. In the summer of 1876 her mother and five brothers and sisters, the youngest one year old, came to this country. The father had come the year before to make a home for his family. On the long ocean voyage they were accompanied by Mrs. Maria Estenson and Mrs. Bergetta Herried, both deceased. They came to the home of Johannes Thorson. Later they moved to the land adjoining his farm in the north which her father homesteaded. There Mrs. Neperud grew up in a Christian home where all labored earnestly together. Except for helping neighbors, she remained at home and assisted her mother while the father and three older children worked out. Of a family of ten children, three survive, Martin and Olava, Mrs. Martin Olson of York and Louise, Mrs. Melvin Thorpen of Osseo. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by Ludwig of Canada, Christian of Osseo, Theodore of Harshaw, Thorvald of Eau Claire; Tonetta, Mrs. John Tomten and Martha, Mrs. Ole Fredrickson, both of the Pigeon community. In 1889 she married Gilbert Neperud. Her husband passed away September 5, 1922, after a very short illness. Three sons preceded her in death George in February 1922, Harry in April 1930 and Louis in April 1941. The surviving children are Otile, Mrs. Harold Sveum; Ella, Mrs. Emmett Meyer; Roy; Inez, Mrs.Vivian Negard, and John. She also leaves 19 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Besides rearing her own family she took her son Harry�s daughter, Hazel, when she became motherless at the age of nine months and reared her. She also made a home for her brother-in-law, Even Neperud, who passed away in 1926. She was intensely devoted to her children and grandchildren and helpful to those around her. In 1928 she rented her farm and moved to Whitehall where she resided about four years. In 1932 she returned to the farm. Since she retired from farming in 1935 she has spent her time with her children, helping where she was most needed. On Sunday afternoon, September 5, funeral services were held from the home of her daughter, Ollie, and from the Synod Lutheran church at 2 p.m., the Rev. C.K. Malmin officiating. The songs rendered were �Jeg Ved mig en Sovn I Jusu Navn,� �Abide With Me,� �Den Store Hvide Flok Vi Se,� and �Nearer My God to Thee.� The pallbearers were nephews, Charles and Helmer Neperud, Harry and Roy Thorpe, Robert Tomten and Roy Thorson. The beautiful flowers were carried by her granddaughters, Harriet Neperud, Virginia Meyer, Marjorie Negard and Vernon Rood. A large number of memorials were given in her memory and she was laid to rest in the Pigeon Falls United Lutheran cemetery. Relatives who came from a distance were Mrs. Mary Thorson and Lewis of Harshaw, Mrs. Gertie Neperud and Harriet of Scandinavia, Roy Neperud and family of Neillsville, Roy Thorson of St. Paul, George Neperud of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Rood of Northfield, Minnesota; Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson and Virginia Meyer of LaCrosse; Mrs. Emmett Meyer of Bangor; V.B. Negaard and family of Hammond, John Neperud and family of Wahpeton, North Dakota; Mr. and Mrs. Roy Severson of Milwaukee and Charles Neperud and family of Roseau, Minnesota. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 16, 1948
EVEN NEPERUD (BIRI)
Another old timer passed. Lived three score of years in America. An occasional sojourner near Pigeon Falls since 1870. Even H. Neperud was the oldest of six children born to Hans and Oline Neperud. He was born March 31, 1845 in Biri, Norway, where he also was baptized and confirmed. Moral and religious teachings were very well inculcated into his soul, both by parents and teachers. Other schooling was but limited. He grew upon his parents� farm, helping them with the farming until May 15, 1866 when he departed to America, expecting such a change would be for his good. When arriving at his destination in Vernon County, August 15, his journey via Germany had lasted over thirteen weeks. He now forthwith went to work on farms and in the pineries to earn some funds for starting a farm home some day. After working for a few years at various places, mostly in Wisconsin, he became afflicted with lung and heart difficulties. A long and tedious period now followed during medical treatments in charge of eminent doctors. Ultimately feeling improved, he resumed activities as best he could, partly as carpenter work, carefully preventing over-exertion. But no remedy had effected a real cure-the troubles not having vanished. Realizing that with ill health he was in no proper condition for going into farming as intended, now found it necessary to give it up remaining, homeless and single and continued in the service of others - when feeling able- to provide for his personal necessities. But glad, however, that misfortunes of some still more serious nature had not befallen him. In his younger years, E.H. Neperud quite frequently had employments and also his temporary home on farms not far from Holmen, and during later years has mostly been staying with relatives in the vicinity of Pigeon Falls. Health having continued going down as old age advanced, paroxysms of asthma especially being very painful of late, he on the 30th of September at the age of 81 years and six months, found relief in death which occurred at the home of Mrs. G.H. Neperud. The funeral was held at Pigeon Falls, October 4, Rev. Orke officiating. The deceased is survived by two brothers, Stener, near Blair and Oluf near York and many nephews and nieces. One brother, Gilbert, died in 1922 and one brother and one sister died in infancy. In memory of Mr. Neperud a sum of money was donated to the Old Peoples Home at Stoughton by the following: Mr. and Mrs. Martin Olson, Martin Olson, Martin Thorson, Mr. and Mrs. Ole Fredrickson, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Toten, Mrs. Agnes Thorson, Mrs. Clara Huse. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 7, 1926
STENER H NEPRUD (BIRI)
S.H. Neprud, 86, who had been confined to the St. Francis hospital in LaCrosse since last November, passed away there Saturday, May 2, 1942. Funeral services were conducted from the home here at 1:30 Tuesday afternoon and at 2:00 at the First Lutheran church, with the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the Rest Haven cemetery. Members of the board of the Town of Preston of which Mr. Neperud was clerk for 46 years, acted as pallbearers. Stener Halvor Neperud, son of Hans and Oline Udahl Neperud, was born February 25, 1856 on Neperud Gaard in Biri, Norway. He was baptized by Pastor Vido and confirmed by Pastor CA. Larson at Biri, Hovedkirk. In 1877 he came to America with his mother and brother to join two older brothers, his father having died two years earlier. The family went first to LaCrosse, then to Pigeon Falls, where the mother purchaseded two 40 acre tracts of land which the young men grubbed and made into a farm. Mr. Neperud often told how, during their first winter here they grubbed all winter long, as there was no frost or snow. There were few trees on the bluffs in the territory at that time as the hills were burned over every year. Mr. Neperud�s schooling was limited but like other men of the early days, he read as much as possible. His early education was received in Norway in the form of religious instruction but after coming to this country, he attended the Gale university at Galesville for two winters. Besides helping on the home farm, he clerked in the Peter Ekern store in Pigeon Falls. He was married to Anna Matie Brando on October 24, 1891 by the Rev. Em. Christopherson and last October friends and relatives honored them at the First Lutheran church here in celebrating their Golden Wedding anniversary. Following their marriage the young couple established a home in Whitehall living there for two years while Mr. Neperud clerked in the Even Ekern store. In 1892 the Neperuds came to Blair to establish a restaurant and shortly after bought the farm at the northwest edge of town which has since been their home. Mr. Neperud was the photographer here for many years, and in 1895 was elected clerk of the town of Preston, which at that time included the Village of Blair. He was reelected each succeeding year, making out his 46th tax roll before he would give up and enter the hospital for treatment for a long suffering ailment. His is believed to be the longest continuous term of any clerk in Wisconsin. The Town of Preston voted a resolution of appreciation for his long and faithful services at the spring election when it became known that he could not continue the duties he had so successfully performed for 46 years. Following an operation in November, his condition did not improve and death came to relieve his sufferings on Saturday, May 2, 1942. Mr. Neperud is survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. J.L. Johnson (Olive) of LaCrosse, a son Marvin of Silverton, Oregon; five grandchildren and a brother, Oluf, of Pigeon Falls. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 7, 1942
MRS. MATTIE NEPERUD (GULBRANDSDALEN)
Funeral services for Mrs. Mattie Neperud, 86, who passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John L. Johnson, 1719 Badger St. in LaCrosse, Thursday, January 18, 1951 after a lingering illness, were held at the First Lutheran church here Sunday afternoon with the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Mrs. Oscar Lokken and Mrs. Urberg sang and the remains were carried to their final resting place in Rest Haven cemetery by the former neighbors and friends, Alf Peterson, Selmer Johnson, Henry Johnson, Clifford Skgostad, John Anderson and Oscar Anderson. Mrs. Mattie Neperud, nee Brandon, was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway on November 21, 1865. She came to America with her parents in 1871 and the family settled in Fitch Coulee near Pigeon Falls. She was married to Stener H. Neperud on October 24, 1891 by the late Rev. Emanuel Christopherson at Pigeon Falls. After living in Whitehall for two years, the young couple came to Blair, locating on the farm just outside the city limits now occupied by the Oscar Lokkens. This was their home until 1942 when they went to LaCrosse to be near his doctor and hospital. Since Mr. Neperud�s death a few months later, Mrs. Neperud has lived with her daughter in LaCrosse. Besides the farming operations, Mr. Neperud conducted a photograph gallery in Blair and served as clerk of the Town of Preston for more than a generation. Mrs. Neperud is survived by two children, Olive, Mrs. Johnson of LaCrosse and Marvin S. Neperud of Silverton, Oregon. There are also five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 25, 1951
OLUF NEPERUD (BIRI)
Funeral services for Oluf Neperud, 72, who died Friday (June 18, 1943) at the Community hospital from heart disease will be held Wednesday or Thursday at the United Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls, pending word from a son Pvt. Olger Neperud, who was being transferred to another camp at the time of his father�s death. The Rev. C.K. Malmin will officiate. Oluf Neperud was born, son of Hans and Oline Neperud, in Biri, Norway, July 20, 1870. He came to America with his mother and brother, Gilbert, when he was 17 years old and settled in LaCrosse. The family later moved to Blair and then to Northfield in Jackson County. He married Julia Steig, December 25, 1890. The ceremony was conducted by his brother Gilbert, who was justice of the peace. Oluf Neperud is survived by his wife and eight children, Charles, Roseau; Olger in the Army; Helmer, Pigeon Falls; Mrs. Omer Thompson, York, Wisconsin; and Oscar and Emil, York. He also leaves 14 grandchildren. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 24, 1943
MRS. JOHN HANSON NERBY - ANDIA SEVERSON BERG (SOLAR)
Andia Severson Berg was born in Norway, November 23, 1843. She was married to John Hanson Nerby at Solar, Norway, August 24, 1874. They made their home in Elverum, Norway for about eight years, and came to this country in the year 1883 and arrived at Blair, Wisconsin July 17 of that year. They lived in the town of Springfield two years and then moved onto a homestead in the Town of Curran, Jackson County, where she lived until the time of her death September 2, 1920. She was 76 years, 8 months and 9 days old. Mr. Nerby died in the year 1901. She leaves to mourn the loss of a kind and loving mother, two sons and three daughters, namely: Halvor and Julius, Mrs. Carry Moe, Mrs. Arnt Gilbertson and Andrene. A son, Sever, died in the year 1887. Funeral services were held at the Trempealeau Valley church Tuesday, September 7th, Rev. Urberg officiating. Interment was made in the Trempealeau Valley cemetery. The beautiful casket was covered with fine flowers in testimony of the high esteem in which she was held. THE BLAIR PRESS - SPETMEBER 2, 1920
JOHN NERISON (KVITESEID, TELMARKEN)
John Nerison, 67, former Blair area resident, died March 8, 1959 at a Mankato, Minnesota hospital where he had been a patient since the day before. He was born February 9, 1892 in Kvidtseid, Telemarken, Norway, the son of the late Per and Gunhild Nerison and was baptized by Pastor Holst. In 1904 he came to America with his parents and settled at Stoughton where Nerison was confirmed by Pastor Hegge. The family then moved to the Blair area where they farmed. In 1942 he went to Superior where he was employed by the Great Northern Railway. Nerison was married to the former Effie Osland of the Blair area, February 9, 1946 in Minneapolis, by the Rev. H.A. Theiste, then pastor of Fairview Lutheran church. The same year Mr. and Mrs. Nerison moved to Mankato settling on the campus of Bethany College, where he was in charge of the campus. Survivors are his wife; five sisters, Mrs. Betsy Flatnes, Portland, Oregon; Mrs. Sigurd (Kristine) Olson, Astoria, Oregon; Mrs. Carrie Nemecek, Crown Point, Indianan; Mrs. Gust (Julia) Stamates, San Francisco, California; and Mrs. Olaus (Marie) Knutson, Superior. A brother, Neri, is dead. Funeral services were held at Mt. Olive Lutheran church, Mankato, Minnesota, of which he was a member, by the Rev. C.M. Gullerud. Burial was at the Grandview Memorial Gardens cemetery at Mankato. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 25, 1959
NICKOLAI H. NERENG (LAND)
Nickolai H. Nereng was born in Land, Norway, April 7, 1859. He grew up in that community and upon arriving at the required age spent two years in the Norwegian army, serving his own time and also two years for another man. In 1880 he came to America, directly to the Town of Pigeon where he was employed for some time by Ole Fremstad who paid his passage to this country. Later he worked several winters in the woods. In November 1886, Mr. Nereng was united in marriage to Miss Ida Fremstad, daughter of H.A. Fremstad. The following two years Mr. and Mrs. Nereng worked her father�s farm in Pigeon, after which the former was employed a number of years at farm work by the late P. Ekern. Mr. Nereng was one of the first mail carriers out of the village of Pigeon Falls and for 22 years was engaged in that work. For a number of years he had the route from Whitehall to Pigeon Falls, and during that time lived a number of winters in this village. He gave up his government work in 1925. The past year Mr. Nereng�s health was poor and he underwent an operation for stomach trouble. His death occurred on Thursday, February 2, aged 68 years and ten months. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Nereng. Two died in infancy. The surviving members of the family are his wife, Helmer, Orvil, Miss Hulda, Mrs. A.A. Burt and Miss Agnes, who is in nurses training at Milwaukee. Mr. Nereng was a member of the U.L. church and for a number of years a member of the church choir. Mr. Nereng was a highly respected citizen and always took his part to further any cause for the up-building of his community. He was a kind and loving father and willingly gave his strength and earning power to make his family contented and happy. Funeral services were held at the home and at the Lutheran church at Pigeon Falls, Monday, February 5, Rev. Orke delivered the funeral sermon. Undertaker E.A. Sletteland had charge of arrangements. Burial took place in the church cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 23, 1928
G.W. NESS (NORWAY)
G.W. Ness, who died in the Lutheran hospital at LaCrosse of pneumonia after having two operations, was born in Norway December 6, 1865, and emigrated to this country with his parents in 1868. In 1882 he moved to Blair, where he resided and on June 21, 1894, he married Miss Josephine Tangbakken. Five years later he removed to Whitehall and was a resident thereof at his death. Deceased was 41 years, 2 months and 28 days old. He leave a wife and five children to mourn his untimely death. The funeral was held Saturday and the remains interred in the Old Whitehall cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - FEBRUARY 14, 1907
GILBERT NESS (NORWAY)
The body of Gilbert Ness was brought to Whitehall Tuesday and laid to rest in Lincoln cemetery, Rev. H.J. Johnshoy officiating. Death occurred Saturday night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Oluf Mattson of LaCrosse. Mr. Ness was born in Norway 77 years ago. He came to America at the age of 22 and settled in Vernon county, moving a few years later to this county where he made his home until he moved to Whitehall about 11 years ago. Here he remained two years and then moved to LaCrosse to make his home with his daughter. The surviving children are: David O. Ness, Galesville; Mrs. Oluf Mattson, LaCrosse; Mrs. Frymiller, Superior; and C.J. Ness, Detroit, Michigan. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - SEPTMEBER 4, 1919
MRS. GILBERT G. NESS (NORWAY)
Mrs. Gilbert G. Ness died at her home in this village Friday, November 2, 1906, at 6:30 a.m. of diabetes, after a lingering illness, aged 64 years, 9 months and 27 days. The subject of this notice was born in Norway January 29, 1842, and in 1865 she was married to Gilbert G. Ness. They resided in Norway until 1868 when they emigrated to this country, settling in Greenwood, Vernon County, this state, where they resided until 1882, at that time removing to this county, locating on a farm about four miles east of Whitehall. In 1899 they took up their residence in this village and lived here until her death. Mrs. Ness was the mother of ten children, five of them dead. Those living are Bert G. and Mrs. Olof Mattson of Whitehall; Mrs. A.P. Dueval of Duluth, Minnesota; David of Galesville; and Carl of Mondovi. Mrs. Ness was a true member of the Synod Lutheran church and leaves many friends to mourn her death. The funeral as held at the Synod Lutheran church Tuesday afternoon, Rev. O.K. Ramberg officiating. The decorations were fine. The remains were interred in the Old Whitehall cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - NOVEMBER 3, 1906
JOHANNES NESHEIM (ULVIK, HARDANGER)
Johannes Nesheim of Bear Creek died Friday December 25, 1913 at his home and the funeral services were held Tuesday at the Beaver Creek U.L. church. He was born at Ulvik, Norway January 2, 1844 and came to this country many years ago, being one of the pioneer settlers here. Up to the recent few months had been employed at the Hans Johnson shoemaking shop. Besides a widow, he leaves a son and many friends to mourn his demise. Rev. O. Gulbrandson officiated at the services. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 1, 1914
HERBORG NESHEIM (ULVIK, HARDANGER)
Herborg Nesheim was born in Ulvik, Hardanger, Norway, December 10, 1841. She was married to John Nesheim March 1, 1880. To this union were born six children, all dying in infancy except one son, John. In the spring of 1884 they immigrated to America, arriving at Eleva, June 7, 1884. They lived on a farm in the vicinity of Eleva until the fall of 1887 when they moved to Beaver Creek, in the Town of Ettrick, Trempealeau County, where they made their home until 1918. Her husband died here December 26, 1913. In the spring of 1918 she and her son moved to a farm in Skutley Coulee near Taylor, where they lived until 1920 when they sold out again and bought the Hoffman farm just outside of Merrillan where she died from a stroke of apoplexy November 5, 1921. On the 9th she was laid to rest beside husband in the United Lutheran cemetery at Hegg, Wisconsin, Rev. Boe Officiating. Reprinted from the Merrillan Leader. NOTE: According to the bydebok, Aettar-bok for Ulvik by Bu, her name in Norway was Herborg Larsdatter Hjeltnes and her husband was Johans Ingebriktson Nesheim (page 150). THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 24, 1921
NERI NERISON (KVITESEID, TELEMARKEN)
Neri Nerison, 70, a former Blair resident, died at the hospital in King, Wisconsin July 25, 1957 at 8:15 p.m. following a short illness. Funeral services were held at the chapel in King, Wisconsin, July 30 at 2 p.m., the Rev. Alfred Wolkenhauer of Amherst officiating. Burial was in the Wisconsin Veterans Memorial cemetery at King. Military funeral rites were conducted at the graveside. He was a member of the King Legion Post. Nerison was born in Norway October 29, 1886 the son of Peder and Gunhild Johnson Nerison. He was married June 12, 1946 to Leatha Mead of Almond, Wisconsin. His first wife, Ida Gusk, is dead. Surviving are his wife; five sisters, Mrs. Betsy Flatner, Portland, Oregon; Mrs. Christina Olson, Astoria, Oregon; Mrs. Julia Stamates, San Francisco, California; Mrs. Carrie Nemecek, Crown Point, Indiana; and Mrs. Marie Knutson, Superior, Wisconsin and one brother, John, Mankato, Minnesota. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 8, 1957
PEDER NERISON (SELJORD, TELEMARKEN)
With the passing of Peder Nerison the Trempealeau valley loses one of its beloved builders and conquerors of this soil, whose strong Viking qualities he helped make this valley a desirable place for our homes. The culmination of Peder Nerison�s 73 years of activity came on Tuesday, October 9th, after having sought all possible human aids in combating the disease which had been draining his vitality for the past few years. The funeral services were conducted at the home and at the Trempealeau Valley church on Friday afternoon, with the pastors S.S. Urberg and Konrad Urberg officiating. Showing their great esteem for the departed there was present at the funeral a vast host of friends and admirers who wished to follow this veteran of life to his final resting place, despite the inclement weather which prevailed. Peder Nerison Stensrud was born in Seljord, Telemarken, Norway on September 20, 1855 of Neri Ronningen and Kirsti (nee) Sletta. On December 25, 1879, he was united in the bonds of holy wedlock with Gunhild Johnson. To this union were born nine children of whom two preceded the father into eternity and are buried in the land in which they were born. Besides his widow he leaves seven children to mourn his loss. Two daughters were unable to be present at their father�s funeral; they are Mrs. Birgit Knutson and Mrs. Sigurd Olsen, both of Astoria, Oregon. The five who were present at their father�s grave are: Neri Nerison of Blair; Miss Carrie Nerison of Hammond, Indiana; John Nerison of Blair; Mrs. Gus Stamates of Milwaukee; and Marie Nerison of Blair. The Nerison family lived in Kvidesund, Norway until Neri emigrated to America in 1903. The other members of the family followed in 1904, locating in Stoughton where they remained until 1908 when they moved to Blair and came into possession of the farm which has until Mr. Nerison�s death, been their home. It is with regret that we must watch the passing of those strong-willed and strong-hearted builders of our community, state and church. We do however have the example set for our own generation whereby we may continue to build and grow strong as a nation and as individuals, physically as well as spiritually before our God. The community sympathizes with the Nerison family in their sorrow and also joys in the example that father Nerison has left us to follow. THE BLAIR PRESS - OCTOBER 18, 1928
GUNHILD NERISON (KVITESEID, TELEMARKEN)
Death has again shown us its inevitability in that it has removed from this world another of our pioneer workers. Mrs. Gunhild Johnsdatter-Soli Nerison has gone to meet her savior, there to rest in the home which he has prepared for her and all who believe in His loving mercies for sinners. Wednesday, January 22, 1930, she left her home and children and died in the faith which she so dearly cherished from the time of her girlhood days. Mrs. Nerison was born in Soli, Kvitseid, Telemarken, Norway, August 5, 1857 of the parents, John Halvorson and his wife, Birgit Tovsdatter Brekke. Her childhood and early womanhood were spent in Norway where she was born. She was baptized and confirmed in the Kvitseid church. On December 26, 1879 she was united in marriage to Peder Nerison in the same church where she had been baptized and confirmed. To this union there were nine children born of whom seven survive. In 1904 the Nerison family emigrated to America and located at Stoughton, Wisconsin where they resided until 1908 when they moved to the farm they now occupy in Shephard Coulee. Mr. Peder Nerison preceded her in death by 15 months, having departed from this earth October 9, 1928. Mrs. Nerison had been in poor health during the fall and winter. Her children were very kind to her and showed her every possible consideration and she was happy in her final sickness to have such a beautiful home life. She was not able to recover from the ravages of the dread disease and passed away last Wednesday, January 22, 1930. The funeral services were held at the home and in the Trempealeau Valley church Saturday January 25th. The pastors Urberg preached on the same texts that were used at the funeral of Mr. Nerison a year ago, and she was laid to rest beside him whom she had followed all the years of her matured strength. She leaves to mourn her death the following children: Mrs. Birgit Knutson, Astoria, Oregon; Mrs. Sigurd Olson, Astoria, Oregon; Neri Nerison, Blair; Miss Carrie Nerison, Hammond, Indiana; John Nerison, Blair; Mrs. Gus Stamates, Milwaukee; and Marie Nerison, Blair. She also leaves a sister in Norway, Birgit Rindebakken, a sister Ingeborg Egilson and a brother, Tom Johnson, of Whitehall. Blessed be Mrs. Nerison�s memory. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 30, 1930
EMIL NEWGAARD (AASNES, SOLAR)
Funeral services for Emil Newgaard, 91, a former resident of Tappen Coulee, who died June 12, 1955 at Minneapolis were held Wednesday at the Zion Lutheran church here. The Rev. E. E. Olson officiated and burial was in church cemetery. Born at Aasnes, Solar, Norway February 25, 1864,he came to the United State in 1885 and settled in Minneapolis. He married Miss Lena Mattison Nyen, also of Aasnes, May 15, 1890. The couple moved to Blair in 1920 and lived on a farm in Tappen Coulee where Mrs. Newgaard died in 1941. Newgard moved back to Minneapolis in 1944. Survivors are two daughters, Mrs. Effie Berndt and Mrs. C.M. Melander, Minneapolis; two sons, Albert and Helmer, Minneapolis; three brothers, Albert, Julius and Haakon in Norway; one sister, Mrs. Gena Bakken, Helena, Montana; and 11 grandchildren. A son, Harry, and a daughter, Selma, are dead. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 23, 1955
LARS NESS (HADDLAND)
Lars Ness was born in Hadeland, Norway, February 7, 1838 and died at Blair, Wisconsin, April 8, 1921. He came to this country when a young man. Since the age of 14 he has been crippled, the result of an injury sustained in being thrown from a buggy, which injured his hip. He had learned the shoe and tailor trade in Norway and after his arrival here, he continued his trade, making shoes for a large firm in Madison. He tried to enlist in the service at the outbreak of the Civil War but on account of this lameness was rejected. From Madison he moved to Medalia, Minnesota, where he continued his work at the shoe and tailor trade. Here his wife died and he then gave up working at his trade and moved to Wonewoc, Vernon County, Wisconsin where he was married to Unni Hegg and they lived there on a farm for 12 years, then moving to Blair where they resided on the farm now occupied by John Ness in Larkin Valley. Here they lived until the death of his wife in 1913, since which time he has made his home with his daughter, Mrs. H.J. Schansberg. For a number of years he ran a show repair shop here in Blair but for the past few years did not work. The following children were born to them: Mrs. Annie Krogh, Burton, Washington; Ole Ness, Shafer, North Dakota; Dena Ness, who died in 1900; Helen Kroon, Minneapolis; Hannah Schansberg, Blair; Louise Hallingstad, Whitehall; Emma Overby, Fairdale, North Dakota; Susie Ness, Keene, North Dakota; and John Ness, Blair. All of the children except Ole ness and Annie Krogh were here for the funeral. Funeral services were held on Thursday April 14th at the First Lutheran church in charge of Rev. Urberg. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 21, 1921
MRS. EMIL NEWGARD (AASNES, SOLAR)
It is a custom in Blair to toll the church bell three times three at the close of worship. As the bells thus tolled last Sunday noon, the life of Mrs. Emil Newgard on this earth also closed. Mrs. Newgard became ill during the summer of 1940. She regained sufficient health and strength so that she was able to care for herself and to be out among her friends at times. However, on Saturday, September 20 she suffered a stroke during the evening and death came at noon on Sunday, September 21, 1941. Lina Mattison Nyen was born May 10, 1866 in Aasnes, Solar, Norway to the parents Ole Mattison and his wife Eli Nyen. She was baptized and confirmed in the Aasnes church by the sainted Rev. Berg. After confirmation she worked at various places in Aasnes until 1887, when she went to America. She came to her sister�s home near Blair. On May 15, 1890 she was united in marriage with Emil Newgard in Minneapolis, the late Rev. Falk Hjertsen performing the marriage. This union endured over 51 years, her husband surviving her. Their first 20 years together were spent at Minneapolis. In 1910 they moved to Blair where they have since been engaged in farming. They purchased their present farm in Tappen Coulee in 1920. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Newgard. Henry is at home; Effie, Mrs. Herbert Berndt, and Emma, Mrs. Carl Melander, are in Minneapolis; Selma, Mrs. Tilman Howard, died May 20, 1928; Helmer is in Minneapolis, and Albert is at home. A sister, Mrs. Olaf Hofstad, Minneapolis, and two brothers, Ole Mattison of Provest, Alberta, Canada and Wilhelm Mattison of Aasnes, Norway, also survive. A sister, Johanna Haugen and two brothers, Reinhold and John preceded her in death. Other survivors are eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Newgard was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran church and the Ladies Aid of the church. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday September 24 from the home in Tappen Coulee and the Zion church with interment in the Blair cemetery. In the absence of her pastor, the Rev. Konrad Urberg officiated. Several hymns were sung by Mrs. A.J. Sather. Pallbearers were Omar Austad, Elmer Anderson, Sophus Dahl, Albert Blom,. Harold Rude and John Shelley. Sympathies are herewith extended the bereaved. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTEMBER 25, 1941
MRS. GULBRAND A. NETTOM (NES)
Mrs. Gulbrand A. Nettom died at her home in the Town of Hale Tuesday, February 21, at the age of 94 years, 4 months and 27 days. Funeral services were held at the home and at the Elk Creek Lutheran church last Friday, the Rev. N. E. Halvorsen officiating. Six grandsons of the deceased, Melvin Martinson, Marvin, Warren and Clarence Kattestad, Guy and Eddie Steig were the pallbearers. Nee Elisabet Hulberg, Mrs. Nettom was born at Nes, Hedmarken, Norway, September 24, 1844. On August 2, 1870 she married Gulbrand A. Nettom. With her husband and four children she came to America in 1880, the family landing Philadelphia June 31 and proceeding directly to Pleasantville in Trempealeau County. They settled on the Chris Hulberg farm and lived there for eight years before moving to the present place a few miles north, where Mrs. Nettom lived for 46 years until her death. Deceased was the mother of eight children: Birgitte, Karoline, Theoline (Mrs. James Fisher, Iron River, Wisconsin), Anton, Emma (Mrs. Matt Kattestad, Osseo), Gunda (Mrs Steig), Gustav and Otto. Four of these preceded her in death, Birgitte, Karoline, Gustav and Otto. Twenty-six grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren survive her besides four children and two sisters, Mrs. Pauline Enger of Duluth, Minnesota and Miss Oline Hulberg of Whitehall. Her husband passed away March 4, 1924. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 2, 1939
MRS. ANNIE NICHOLS (CHRISTIANIA)
A pioneer settler in Trempealeau County, Mrs. Annie Nichols of Osseo passed peacefully away at her home in that village Sunday, October 5, at the age of 82 years, 11 months and 29 days. Deceased was the mother of Mrs. Will Warner of the Town of Hale. Funeral services were held at Wednesday, the Rev. L.G. Moland officiating. Pallbearers were the four grandsons, Harold Isom, Ernest Isom, Delmar Rorabeck and Lloyd Warner and two nephews, Brooks Whipple and Dickey Whipple. Interment was in the Osseo cemetery. Annie Elvira Olson was born near Christiania, Norway, October 6, 1858. She came to this country at the age of nine years, the family making the trip by sailboat. The journey across the Atlantic lasted for six weeks. They settled first at Edgerton, this state, but came to Trempealeau County a short later to take a farm in Johnson Valley near Strum. The place is now known as the Christopher Flatten farm. Soon, however, the Olsons moved to Osseo and were among the first settlers of that village. Mr. Olson operated the first shoe shop in Osseo in a building located where the Steenson Clothing Store now stands. The subject of this sketch was joined in marriage to Caleb Nichols on September 25, 1880 at Osseo. To this union three children were born, Jennie, Mrs. George Isom of Osseo; Carrie, Mrs. William Warner of Hale, and Minnie, Mrs. Curtis Rorabeck of Osseo. Her husband preceded in death April 25, 1927. Besides her three daughters, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, she is survived by one sister, Mrs. Emma Whipple of Osseo. Mrs. Nicholas lived all her married life in Osseo and vicinity except for four years spent at Augusta. She was a member of the Osseo Congregational church and also of the Ladies Aid of that church. Because of her sunny disposition and thoughtful kindness toward everyone, she will be greatly missed. Among the out-of-town people who attended the last rites were her grandson, Lloyd Warner and wife of Winona, Mr. and Mrs. W.G. Olson of Whitehall, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Briggs, Mrs. and Mrs. G. Matchey, Seth Speerstra, Mrs. and Mrs. David Warner and son Sidney and Mr. and Mrs. S.B. Scott of Hale were also in attendance. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 16, 1941
MRS. MARTHA NILSESTUEN (VERMLAND, SWEDEN)
Martha Steffenson was born in Vermland, Sweden in 1838, emigrating to this country in 1872 and was a resident of Preston until the following year when she was married to John Nilsestuen, removing with him to the Tamarack Valley where she resided up to the time of her death. She was the mother of five children as follows: Mrs. Ole A. Nilsestuen of Tamarack; Albert of Hallock, Minnesota; Martin of Dawson, North Dakota; and Julius and Julia who reside with their father on the farm. Deceased leaves a brother, aforementioned of Preston, and a sister, Mrs. Kaisa, of Albion. (Sever Steffenson furnished the above obituary notice of his sister, Mrs. John Nilsestuen of Tamarack notice of whose death recently appeared in these columns) THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JANUARY 3, 1907
SEVERT NICHOLSON (NORWAY)
Severt Nicholson died May 12, 1911, at his home after an illness of six months. He was born in Norway November 18, 1846 and at the age of two years came with his parents to Blue Mounds, Dane County, Wisconsin. They moved to Trempealeau County in 1872 and settled in Town of Albion. Was married February 24, 1874 to Miss Cornelia Wenans by whom he had five children- Emma and Sena, who died in 1896; Nicolai, John and Lawrence, who survive, with his wife. He served in the Civil War and was with Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He was postmaster of Eleva the past thirteen years, resigning last fall on account of ill health. His long residence here, his upright honesty and kind disposition won him the universal respect of the community. The funeral was held at the Lutheran church at Norden last Sunday. Rev. Helsem of Strum conducted the services, and interment was made at Norden. Deceased was a good soldier, a kind husband and father, an accommodating neighbor, and in all respects a good citizen. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MAY 25, 1911
MRS. OLOF E. NORDAHL (GOTLAND, SWEDEN)
Mrs. Olof E. Nordahl died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Shekels, near Tomah, on May 29, 1926, at the age of 73 years, 4 months and 16 days. She had been ill about four years, suffering of heart trouble. Last December she fell and broke her hip. She spent several weeks at the Whitehall hospital and later returned to the home of her son Charles Nordahl, going to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Shekels about five weeks before her death. She became more seriously ill eight days previous to her death. The funeral services were held from the Presbyterian Church at Hixton, conducted by Rev. Christopherson and interment was made at the Pine Grove cemetery. She was born at Gotland, Sweden, January 13, 1856, and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Olof Olafson. She came to America in 1885, resident at Stanley four years. She moved to Hixton about 35 years ago and it had since been her home. She was married on September 12, 1874 to Olof E. Nordahl. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Harley Letson of Taylor and three sons, Charles J. and Ernest S. Nordahl, of Hixton and Jacob Nordahl of Illinois. Three children preceded her in death. She also leaves one brother, Olof Olson of Portland, Oregon, and seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Nordahl had been a member of the Lutheran church from her early years and was faithful in her attachment to her creed. She was a kindly woman, a devoted wife and mother, and throughout her life her constant endeavors were for the welfare of her family. She had a friendly interest in her neighbors and she was ever willing to contribute of her time to assist others. She lived a good life, fulfilling its responsibilities and earnestly desirous of being of service to all. The members of her family have the sympathy of all in their bereavement. Reprinted from the Black River Falls Journal-Banner. THE TAYLOR HERALD - JUNE 25, 1926
JOHN NOKELBY (STANGE, HEDMARK)
John Nokelby was born in Stange, Hedemarken, Norway, July19, 1846. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He grew to manhood there and came to America in 1883. The same year he married Maria Pederson. In 1884 they moved to the farm in the Town of Hale, this county, which continued to be Mr. Nokelby�s home until his death. To this union six children were born, all living: Ole, Martin, Anton, Peter, Elsie, Mrs. Carl Bye and Edward. Mr. Nokelby died September 8, 1934, at the age of 88 years, one month and 20 days. Funeral services were held at the home September 12, the Rev. N.E. Halvorsen officiating. The pallbearers were his five sons and Carl Bye. He was laid to rest in the Elk Creek Cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 27, 1934
GUNHILD NICHOLSON (SILJORD, TELEMARK)
Gunhild Nicholson, nee Wennas, was born at Siljord, Telmarken, Norway, June 2, 1850. In 1861, at the age of 11, she came to America with her parents and stayed for a while at Capron, Illinois. After a stay in Iowa County, Wisconsin, the family moved to Trempealeau County in 1867, and have resided in the village of Eleva for 42 years. February 25, 1874, she was united in marriage to Syvert Nicholson. To this union five children were born, Emma, Nicholas, Sena, Lawrence and John. Mrs. Nicholson suffered a stroke of paralysis December 31, 1925 and died February the 10th. The funeral took place Saturday the 13th. In the house Rev. Wichman read the liturgy, and in the Eleva Lutheran church, of which deceased was a charter member, Rev Westberg spoke in Norwegian and Rev. Wachman in the English language, while a quartet (Mrs. S. Wellen, Mrs. Albert Isaacson, Mr. Duxbury and N. Foseland) beautifully rendered some appropriate songs. The funeral process went to the Norden church, where short sermons were given by Westberg and Wichmann, respectively, in Norwegian and English. Mrs. Nicholson was laid to rest in the Norden cemetery beside her husband. She leaves to mourn her death her three sons, Nicholas, Lawrence and Johnson and two sisters, Mary Hatvedt and Laura Barness. Mr. Kjentvet had charge of the funeral. THE WHITEHALL TIMES, FEBRUARY 18, 1926
JOHAN LARSON NORDBY (NORWAY)
Johan Larson Nordby, 78, who died suddenly at the home of his son, Sigurd Nordby in Pigeon Monday, March 28, was laid to rest in Old Whitehall Cemetery Friday following services at the home at 1 o�clock and at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church in Whitehall, the Rev. O.G. Birkeland officiating. Pallbearers were Albert Rongrud, Hilmer Hoff, Olaus Mitskogen, Albert Austin, Christan Sveen and Will Mahlum. Flowers were carried by his granddaughters, Katherine Hanson and Mrs. Arthur Riphenberg. Mr. Nordby was born in Norway December 5, 1859, the son of Lars and Ingeborg Larson. In 1905 part of the family came to America, directly to the Pigeon community. Johan married and with his wife, reared a family of eight children. Mr. Nordby had been troubled with rheumatism for many years but his death was sudden, resulting from a heart attack. He was 78 years, 3 months and 23 days old at the time of his passing. Mrs. Nordby preceded her husband in death by 21 years and they are buried side by side at Old Whitehall. The eight children, all surviving their father are: Marie, Mrs. Knut Bergh of Walford City, North Dakota; Jens Nordby, Minneapolis; Lars Nordby, Seattle, Washington; Carl Nordby, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; Martha, Mrs. Herman Hanson, Pigeon Falls; Magna, Mrs. Syver Johnson and Sigurd Nordby, Whitehall and Oscar Nordby, Blair. He is also mourned by 32 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two sisters and one brother living in Norway and nieces and nephews. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 7, 1938
JOHN NORDHUS (HARDANGER)
Funeral services were held Tuesday at the home and at North Beaver Creek Lutheran church for John Nordhus, 89, who died Sunday at a LaCrosse Hospital, having been ill for a week following a heart attack. The Rev. George Muedeking of Arcadia officiated and burial was in the cemetery adjoining the churchyard. He was born in Hardanger, Norway, August 20, 1855, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Tolefson Nordhus. At the age of 18 he came to America and in partnership with two brothers, Paul and Axel, he engaged in farming in the North Beaver Creek valley. For half a century he had lived one the present Nordhus farm, now operated by a nephew and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Nordhus. Nordhus never married. He made one trip back to his native land. He is survived by his brother, Axel, 79, on the home farm. The third partner of the trio, Paul, died eight years ago. A brother and sister in Norway are believed to be still living. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 7, 1945
AXEL NORDHUS (HARDANGER)
Funeral services for Axel Nordhus, who died suddenly of a heart attack at his home in North Beaver Creek Sunday evening, March 11, 1951 were held Thursday at the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church with Rev. L.W. Halvorson officiating. Burial was in the cemetery adjoining the churchyard. Mr. Nordhus was born in Hardanger, Norway on February 13, 1865, the son of Ole and Ingeborg Nordhus. He migrated to the United States in 1884 at the age of 19 where he joined his two older brothers. For seven years he was employed in the lumnber camps of Northern Wisconsin and in the harvest fields of the Dakotas. In 1891, with his two brothers, Paul and John, he settled on the present farm in Beaver Creek. He never married and his eight brothers and sisters preceded him in death. He is survived by the following nieces and nephews: Ray Nordhus, San Matea, California; Mrs. Henry Clatt, Minneapolis; Mrs. Raymond Thompson, Taylor; Emil on the home farm; Philip, Iowa City; Mrs. Ray Colburn, LaCrosse; and Nels Nordhus, Minneapolis. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 22, 1951
PAUL O. NORDHUS (HARDANGER)
Paul Nordhus was born in Hardanger, Norway October 28, 1859, the son of Ole and Ingeborg Nordhus. His father was engaged in farming and was also the local postmaster. He was the seventh child in a family of nine children. He was baptized and confirmed in the parish Lutheran church and received his education in the public schools of his native land. At the age of 15 years he became a sailor, a vocation he followed until the year of 1882, when he migrated to the United States. For six years he was employed at a sawmill in the Beaver Creek valley. From Wisconsin he went west, remaining at Spokane, Washington and other western cities a period of 18 months, employed as a stonemason. With the money he had saved in his sojourn in the States, he returned to his native Norway. However America possessed too strong an attraction for him to establish permanent residence there, so we find him returning to the county of his adoption in 1891. With his two brothers, Axel and John, he settled on the present farm in Beaver Creek. Through all the years the partnership thus formed by the three brothers remained unmarred by the least fraternal dissension. It was only dissolved by death after 46 years. He was united in marriage to Betsy Davis, the daughter of Rasmus and Anna Davis February 5, 1894. To this union were born the following children: Oscar Raymond, San Francisco, California; Alma (Mrs. Henry Clatt), Blair; Esther (Mrs. Thompson), Trump Coulee; Emil, Phillip and Lilah at home. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1923, by his daughter, Mrs. George Clatt in 1930 and by a son who died in infancy. He had always enjoyed the best of health. He had never been seriously sick a day in his life until his last illness. He was removed to the St. Francis hospital at LaCrosse Tuesday, November 15, suffering from a complication of ailments and passed away the following Friday morning at 7:39, November 19, 1937, aged 78 years and 22 days. The ties of affection that bound him to his home, his children and his brothers were strong. His death is not only a distinct loss to the family but to the community at large. He was an excellent neighbor and friend. He was fair and honest in his relationship with others. Of a kind and peace-loving disposition, he gave no man offense. Men of his type and character lend strength to a community. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. T.E. Sweger at the home and at the Beaver Creek church where he had long held membership, Monday, November 22nd. The Ladies Chorus sang �Jeg ved mig en sov� and �Nearer My God to Thee.� Memory wreaths were given to the Gale college, Ebenezer Home for the Aged and the Wittenberg Home for the Aged. The pallbearers were John Davis, Levi Henderson, Cornelius Davis, Theodore E. Johnson, John Vinje and Theodore G. Johnson. THE BLAIR PRESS - NOVEMBER 25, 1937
MRS. PETER NORLAND (LOSNA, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Mrs. Peter Norland passed quietly to her eternal rest Holy Thursday morning, April 14, 1938, at her home in Dagget Coulee. She had been bedridden for eight weeks, first with pneumonia and then a complication of ailments. Although her suffering was almost unbearable at times, she maintained her faith and never complained. Short services were conducted at the home April 18, with relatives and friends attending. Funeral services were conducted at Our Saviour�s Lutheran church at Whitehall, where a large assemblage of friends and neighbors had come to pay their last respects to a dear departed friend. Pallbearers were Edward Hagen, Andrew Semb, Bernt Johnson, Torval Moe, Palmer Hagen and Louis C. Larson. Flowers were carried by Mrs. Louis C. Larson and Mrs. Palmer Hagen. The funeral sermon was preached in the English language by the Rev. O.G. Birkeland and in Norwegian by the Rev. E.B. Christophersen of Pigeon Falls. A group of six women, including Mmes. Lewis Hanson, August Rinstad, Ludwig Solsrud, Sebert Salverson, Augusta Mattson, and G.S. Rice, from the Ladies Aid of which Mrs. Norland had long been an active member, sang three beautiful sons, �I Know of a Sleep in Jesus� Name,� �Abide With Me,� and a Norwegian hymn. She was laid to rest in the S.L. cemetery at Pigeon Falls with the Rev. Birkeland officiating. Mrs. Hilda Nordland was born in Losna, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, September 7, 1882, the oldest child of Hans and Marie Paulsrud. She came to America in 1905, arriving at the home of her aunt, Mrs. John Hilgren of Minneapolis. She was united in marriage December 1, 1910 to Peter Norland. The couple made their home on a farm near Whitehall except for a period of 12 years spent in their residence in Whitehall. In 1920 the family spent five months in Norway, visiting Mrs. Norland�s mother, brother and sister and other relatives. Mrs. Norland had been ill a number of times but having wonderful recuperative powers and by the grace of God, she regained her health. She was a tireless, energetic worker, both for the family and her many friends, who long will remember her kind deeds. Memorial wreaths amounting to $78, dedicated to charities and church activities in memory of Mrs. Norland, well show the esteem and respect of her many friends. The Norland family received a very beautiful and comforting letter from Rev. N.G. Maakestad family of Rochester, Minnesota, former Whitehall residents when he was pastor of Our Saviour�s church. The deceased leaves to mourn her passing her husband, Peter Norland, a daughter, Agnes, Mrs. Clarence Mathson and grandson, David; a sister Synone, Mrs. Carl Lande of Minneapolis, a sister Gundrun and brother John of Norway An aunt, Mrs. John Hilgren of Minneapolis was unable to be present at the funeral due to illness but had the opportunity to visit her niece a week previous to her death. Relatives attending from a distance were Oluf Norland of Stoughton and Mrs. and Mrs. Carl Lande and daughter of Minneapolis. Her many friends will long remember Mrs. Norland�s fine spirit and helpfulness and friendliness. May God bless her memory. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 28, 1938
KARL OLSON NORDSTRUM (VARMLAND, SWEDEN)
Karl Olson Nordstrum was born November 1, 1859, in Dybaasen, Djekeliden, Sokn, Varmelands Lan, Sweden, a son of Ole and Martha Thompson Nordstrum. He left Sweden June 25th and immigrated to America, landing in Quebec July 17, 1882. He came to Black River Falls arriving July 22nd. He was united in marriage in 1884 to Miss Bertha Olson. Four children were born to them, namely, Olga, Olea and Bertha and one son, Charles. They made their home a farm near Melrose which Mr. Nordstrum sold in 1917 to his son, Charles. His wife died April 21, 1903. On November 9, 1904, Mr. Nordstrum was united in marriage to Olive Blomsten. Two children were born to them, Benhard and Melvin, who now reside on the home farm and are known as Nordstrum Brothers. On April 4, 1918 Mr. and Mrs. Nordstrum bought a farm in the Town of Hale, Trempealeau County, where they lived for thirteen years. In 1930 he traded his property to Charles R. Smart for a farm near Taylor and continued his residence there until death came to him on September 9, 1933 at the age of 73 years, 10 months and eight days. Mr. Nordstrum had been suffering of a cancer since last February but had been seriously ill only since July. Funeral services were held Tuesday of last week at the home at 11 o�clock, Rev. Johan Olsen of Frenchville officiating. At 1 o�clock there was a service in the South Beaver Creek church, and interment was made in the cemetery there. He leaves to mourn his loss, his widow, three sons, Charles of Melrose, Bernhard and Melvin of Taylor. His three daughers preceded him in death, Olga and Olea passing away in infancy and Mrs. Bertha Smith on September 30, 1930. He leaves 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is also mourned by two sisters, Mrs. Joe Knobloch of LaCrosse and Mrs. Dan McCollum of Galesville and four brothers, Martin and Ole of Melrose and Eber and William of Hoquiam, Washington. Mr. Nordstrum was a kindly obliging man loyal and devoted to his family and home. He was a member of the Lutheran church and lived in its faith. The sympathy of all goes to the members of the family. Ener Nelson of Superior; Mrs. Joe Knobloch of LaCrosse, and Ed Smith and Mrs. Daniel McCollum of Galesville, and Ole Rognes of Melrose were among those from away who attended the funeral. Reprinted from the Banner-Journal. THE WHITEHALL TIMES- SEPTEMBER 28, 1933
MRS. RAGNILD NORDNESS (VALESTRAND)
Mrs. Ragnild Nordenss passed away June 21 following a siege of pneumonia at the age of 69 years. Deceased was born at Valestrand, Norway, March 22, 1855. She came to the United States in 1883 and settled in Dane county where she was married to Ole Nordness. In 1889 the family moved to Trempealeau County and settled on a farm in the Town of Lincoln. Mr. Nordness died about twenty years ago. Two sons survive, Peter at home and Olous of Jenner, Alberta, Canada, and two brothers, Peter and Andrew Igsvood of Anette, North Dakota and Mrs. PC. Peterson of Fly Creek and one sister residing in Norway. The funeral services were held at the Rhode undertaking parlors and at Our Saviours Lutheran church Wednesday afternoon, June 25, Rev. Christopherson officiating. Burial took place at the Old Whitehall cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - JULY 10, 1924
OLE NYEN, SR. (SOLAR)
On May 9, 1924 occurred the death of Ole Nyen, Sr. Mr. Nyen was born in Solar, Norway on February 2, 1843. He left for America in 1871 and came to Black River Falls where he was united in marriage to Hannah Benson the same year. They remained here two months and then came to Blair and stayed at Martin Thompson�s in Lakes Coulee two years. Then Mr. Nyen took a forty acre homestead and moved there in the same neighborhood. Later, he added two more forties to his homestead. Eleven children were born to this union namely: Mrs. Ludvik Olson, Bernt, Albert, Oscar and Helmer, Ole and Mrs. Oscar Haugen, all of Blair and Mrs. Peter Ness of Minneapolis. Two girls died in infancy and one boy when fourteen years of age. Mr. Nyen was always a hard worker and spent several winters in the woods. In 1905 he sold his farm to his sons, Oscar and Albert and he and his wife made their home with them up to the time of Mr. Nyen�s death. He was very patient during his sickness, never complaining. His health had been failing for over a year. Funeral services were held on Wednesday from the First Lutheran church with Rev. Urberg in charge and interment was made in the Blair cemetery. All of the children were present for the funeral. Mr. Nyen was held in high esteem by the many friends who knew him during nearly half a century of life in this country. He was a kindly man devoted to his family and ever thoughtful of their comfort and welfare. He was imbued with a kind neighborly spirit and was given to those little acts of kindness which endeared him to his friends and neighbors. He was always ready to lend a helping hand in an emergency. He will long be remembered by his many friends in Blair and surrounding community who sympathize with his wife and children in the loss of a good husband and father. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 22, 1924
MRS OLE NYEN (SOLAR)
Mrs. Ole Nyen was born in Solar, Norway the 4th of August 1846. She came to America in 1871. She was married to Ole Nyen the same year in Black River Falls. They came to Lakes Coulee where she has lived ever since. In 1905 they sold their farm to their sons, Albert and Oscar and since that time they have lived with the boys. In 1924 her husband died. The last year she has been failing until death came August 19, 1930. She leaves to mourn her death: Mrs. Ludvik Olson, Albert, Oscar and Helmer, all of Blair; Ole, Mrs. Peder Ness, both of Minneapolis. Two children died in infancy and one boy died at the age of 14 years. Mrs. Oscar Haugen died one year ago. THE BLAIR PRESS - SEPTMEBER 11, 1930
HAROLD H. NOREN (TRONES)
Harold H. Noren, 83, died Saturday at 11 a.m. (March 13, 1965) at the Black River Falls Community hospital where he had been a patient three weeks. He had been in failing health several years. He was born in Trones, Norway, to Mr. and Mrs. Hans Noren, and came to Westby, Wisconsin with his parents when he was 4 � years. The family then moved to Blair and later to the Hegg community, Town of Ettrick. He was confirmed in 1896 by the Rev. Ole Gulbrandson of Blair. On October 27, 1912 he was married to Minnie Hagestad. They farmed in North Beaver Creek. They then moved to Racine where they lived several years before returning to North Beaver Creek. He was a member of North Beaver Creek Lutheran Church. The couple celebrated their golden anniversary in 1962. Survivors are his wife; three sons, Carlyle and Myron of Franklin and Herman, Blair; two daughters, Mrs. Evelyn Sodergren, Duluth, and Mrs. Ray (Norma) Lien, Blair; two brothers, John, Black River Falls and Helmer, North Beaver Creek; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A sister and a brother have died. The funeral was held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church, the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 18, 1965
MRS. MAREN NYEN (N. THON)
Maren Lee was born in Northern Thon, Norway, August 7, 1846. She was baptized and confirmed in the same parish. On the 19th of November 1869, she was married to Johannes Anderson Woldengen. One child was born to this union, which lived only a short time. Mr. and Mrs. Woldengen came to America in 1878 and settled on a farm near Square Bluff, Trempealeau County. After her husband�s death in 1898, she lived alone until the following year when she was married to John Nyen. Following Mr. Nyen�s death, she moved to Whitehall where she resided until a few weeks ago when she went to live with Mrs. Emil Nygaard in Tappen Coulee with whom she intended to append the winter. She passed away October 3. Short funeral services were held at Rhode�s undertaking rooms by Rev. O.G. Birkeland on October 5th, then by Rev. Johan Olsen at the Nygaard home and at the Fagernes church. Interment was made in Fagnernes cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 13, 1932
EVEN CHRISTIANSON NYGAARD (BIRI)
Even Christianson Nygaard, who passed away at the home of his son, Albert Christianson, in the Town of Hale, December 17, 1938, was born in Biri, Norway, May 5, 1861, of parents, Olive and Christian Nygaard. At the age of 18 years he decided to cast his lot in America and he journeyed here with his brother, Anton. He found work with Henry Lewis and remained with him several years with the exception of winters, which he spent in the lumber camps. December 14, 1891, he was united in marriage to Miss Maren H. Larson, the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Larson. Together they settled on a farm in the Town of Hale, which was to remain his home until his death. Some years ago he sold the old farm to his son, Albert. His wife preceded him in death at the age of 65 years, August 14, 1930. They were the parents of six children: namely, Louis, Albert, Olaf, Mary (Mrs. Emil Peterson), Mathilda (Mrs. Joseph Peterson) and Anton, all residing in the Town of Hale. He is also survived by two brothers, Sever and Anton Christianson of Northwood, North Dakota. Funeral services were held December 21 at the Hale church, the Rev. N.E. Halvorsen officiating. His four sons and two sons-in-law acted as pallbearers. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 12, 1939
OLE NYSVEN (FABERG)
Ole Oleson Nysven was born in Faaberg, Norway, July 20, 1846. In 1867 he emigrated and came first to Zumbrota, Minnesota, where he found employment on a farm. Two years later he came to Eau Claire, where he was employed by a lumber company. In 1871 he came to Strum where he bought a farm south of town and had lived there until September 5th, 1933, when he passed away. In the same year he came to Strum, he married Ida Braastad, who preceded him in death six years ago. Ten children were born to them of whom nine are living, as follows: Gilbert and Marie at home; Oscar, Strum Mrs. T.J. Muher, Osseo; Magnus, Mayville, North Dakota; John, Pierre, South Dakota; Edward, Des Moines, Iowa; Torvald, Hibbing, Minnesota; and Albert Johnson, LaCrosse. Einar, a son, died twelve years ago. Ole Nysven was interested in both church and civic affairs. He was one of the charter members of St. Paul�s church. He was also postmaster here for a period of 28 years, and was interested in local political affairs. During his last years he was confined to his home due to illness. During his illness he was cheered by the splendid care given him by his children at home. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - SEPTEMBER 14, 1933
PAUL NORDHUS (HARDANGER, NORWAY) (2)
Paul Nordhus, one of the enterprising and prosperous farmers of Ettrick Township, is like many other successful agriculturists of this part of the county, of Norwegian birth, having been born in Hardanger, Norway, October 28, 1859, son of Ole and Ingeborg (Tolafson) Nordhus, his parents being natives of the same locality. The father was a farmer and also postmaster of his town. He and his wife both died in Norway, never coming to this country. Paul Nordhus, who was the seventh born in a family of nine children, attended school in his native land. At the age of 15 years he became a sailor and followed that vocation until 1882, in which year he came to the United States, locating in Beaver Creek Valley, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. At the end of that time he went west, visiting Spokane, Washington, and other places and working as a stone mason for about 18 months. In the meanwhile he had saved money and now returned to Norway, desiring to see his native place once more. The United States possessed too strong an attraction for him to remain there long, however, and in 1891 he came back to this country and located on his present farm in section 12 East, Ettrick Township, the farm containing 280 acres of valuable land, on which he raises good crops, besides keeping a fair amount of stock. He is also financially interested as a stockholder in the Farmers Exchange of Blair, the Ettrick Creamery Company, the Ettrick Telephone Company and the Bank of Ettrick. Mr. Nordhus was married February 6, 1894, to Betsey Davidson, who was born in Beaver Creek Valley, Ettrick Township, daughter of Rasmus and Anna (Johnson) Davidson. Her parents were natives of Hardanger, Norway, who came to America about 1875, settling on a farm in Jackson County, just across the line from Trempealeau County, where Mr. Davidson died in 1908. His wife is still residing on the old farm. They were among the earliest settlers in that locality. Mrs. Nordhus, who was the third born of their six children, when a girl attended the Hegg schoolhouse in Ettrick Township, this county. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Nordhus are six in number: Oscar Raymond, who is employed in the office of the St. L. & M. Railroad Company at Minneapolis; Alina Ingeborg, now residing in Minneapolis; and Esther Josephine, Norma Jeanette, Emil James and Basil Philip, who are residing at home. Mr. Nordhus and his family are affiliated by membership with the United Lutheran Church while his political principles are those of the Republican party. As a successful farmer and loyal citizen, he is known and respected throughout this part of the county. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
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