Quall Peter O.
Quamme Hans M.
Quamme Hans Mrs.
Quammen Edward
Quammen Lars J.
Quammen Lars 2
Quarne Edward E.
Quarne Edward E. 2
Quarne Edward E. Mrs.
Radcliffe Fillmore C.
Raichle John
Ramsey Ole E.
Rasmussen Louis Mrs.
Rasmussen Louis
Ramsley Christ. Mrs.
Ranes Eli Mrs.
Raubakken Hans Peterson
Reirson Maren
Reitzel George
Rekstad Sivert
Renning Benjamin L.
Rhude Martha N. Mrs.
Rhude Ole Mrs. (Clara)
Renning Olive Mrs.
Renning Nakana
Renning Karelius/Christophersen Cornelius
Rice Gilbert S.
Rindahl Olof
Ringlien Andrew J.
Ringlien Andrew J. 2
Risberg Carl K.
Risberg Bernt A.
Risberg Bernt A. Mrs.
Risberg Oluf
Risberg Marthina Mrs.
Riseberg Knute K.
Risberg Pauder K.
Risberg Paudor K. 2
Risberget Robert P.
Ristuben Peder O.
FILLMORE C. RADCLIFFE (LACROSSE COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Radcliffe of Hegg, town of Ettrick received a telegram from the War department Friday evening that their son, Staff Sergeant Fillmore C. Radcliffe, 22, was killed in action in Italy June 24, 1944. Sergeant Radcliffe left for service with a group of over 70 selectees from Trempealeau County in October 1942. Assigned to the infantry, he was sent to Camp White, Oregon for training and was also stationed at Camp Adair, Oregon before being sent overseas in March of this year. He arrived first in North Africa. A letter written by him on June 21 said that he had just arrived at a new place which he could not name. His parents believe that he was killed in the first battle in which he took part, since they had not heard from him since the arrival of that letter written three days reported by the War department before the day of his death. Fillmore was born January 31, 1922 in LaCrosse county. He resided there with his parents until six years ago, when they moved to Trempealeau County, settling on a farm on highway 95 west of Blair, their address being Whitehall at that time. Later his parents moved to the farm near Hegg where they now reside. Fillmore attended grade school. Besides his parents, Sergeant Radcliffe is survived by one brother, Earl, whose home is near Blair but who is employed in Chicago at the present time and four grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Olson of Hegge and Mr. And Mrs. Edward Radcliffe of Mindoro. Sergeant Radcliffe's name appears on the honor roll at Whitehall, as he resided here when entering service. His is the third name on the roll with a star behind it, the other two being Sergeant Harold D. Stendahl, killed in a gun accident in this country in September 1942 and Private Elmo Dahl, whose parents, Mr. And Mrs. Bennie Dahl of Pleasantville, received word of his being killed in action in France on June 11. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAPBOOK (JULY 31, 1944)
EDWARD E. QUARNE (HONEFOSS)
This community has been visited by death a large number of times this winter. It has claimed both the young and old. This time it claimed one of this communities old pioneers, Edward Quarne. Mr. Quare moved to Blair only a few short years ago with the intention of spending his declining years with a little ease than heretofore. But it seems that ever since he came here, and especially this last year his health kept failing. This winter found him very poor in health which confined him to his home almost constantly. About a week before his death, pneumonia set in. This together with his death on April 15, 1923. Mr. Quarne was a well-educated man. While he lived in Norway, he studied at several of that countries higher schools. It was his original intention to become a teacher. Coming to this country he decided to farm, and this was his occupation until he moved into our village. Mr. Quarne was of a quiet nature, but a deep thinker. He was especially interested in religious activities. He followed closely the growth of his church down thru the ages up to the present time. He was vitally interested in his local congregations. If it was possible to be present at service services or a congregational meeting, Mr. Quarne was sure to be there. The congregation has in his death lost one of its most devoted members. Mr. Quarne came to this community in 1872 and has spent all his time here except for 13 years he lived in Grant County, Minnesota. As a citizen and neighbor, he enjoyed the respect of all those with whom he came in contact. Edward E. Quarne was born in Honefoss, Norway June 10, 1847. In 1869 he left to the United States, arriving at Eau Claire in the month of June. He spent three years at Eau Claire, then moving to his farm four miles southwest of Blair in Salve Coulee. He was married to Anna B Johnson, Eau Claire February 22, 1873. Besides his wife, he leaves the following children: Mrs. Erick Anderson of Beaver Creek, Mrs. Alfred Anderson of Blair, and Julius Edwin Quarne of Salve Coulee. He was buried in the Zion Lutheran church cemetery April 18th. Rev. Boe officiating, assisted by Rev. Urberg. A large number of friends had gathered to pay their last tribute to him. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 25, 1923
MRS. EDWARD E. QUARNE (AASNES, SOLAR)
The funeral services for Mrs. Edward E. Quarne, nee Anne B. Johnson, last Thursday marked the passing of another of the pioneer settlers of this community. Born at Aasnes Parish, Solor, Norway in the year 1853, on June 11, she came with her parents, B.J. Smalberg and Anna Maria Ingebretson to America in 1865. With them she lived at Eau Claire until February 22, 1873 when she was married to Edward E. Quarne. After residing in Eau Claire for two years, they went to Pepin County. After farming there a few years, they came to the farm in Reynolds Coulee, which was then owned by her father. Here a pest of cinch-bugs destroyed his crops so the family got together a covered wagon outfit in the true pioneer style and set forth for the then distant Minnesota wheat fields. They settled at Elbow Lake, Grant County in that state where they farmed until 1891 when they returned to their farm in Reynolds Coulee which was from then on their home. This farm is now occupied by the son, Bennie Quarne, and is known as the B.J. Smalberg homestead. Her mother died in 1911. Several years ago Mr. and Mrs. Quarne moved to Blair where they built a house which was her home at the time of her death. Her husband died April 15, 1923. Three children are dead: Edwin Bernhard, Carl Martinius and Carl Alfred. The following still survive her: Mrs. Erick Anderson, Beaver Creek; Mrs. Alfred Anderson, Blair; Julius and Bennie Quarne of Reynolds Coulee. An adopted son, Arthur Olson, died in France during the World War. He was a member of the state militia and saw service from the beginning of the European trouble, served on the Mexican border, was graduated a First Lieutenant at Fort Sheridan and sent across where he met death in the service. Another adopted daughter, Mrs. Goodwin Anderson, lives near Blair. Two brothers, Bernt Johnson and John Benson, both of Blair, still survive her. Funeral services were held at the home Thursday, January 13 and from the Zion Lutheran church with interment in the nearby cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JANUARY 20, 1927
PETER O. QUALL (NORWAY)
John Anderson of Eau Claire sends us the following notice of the death of a pioneer citizen of Trempealeau County. Peter O. Quall, an early settler of Trempealeau County, passed away at the Sacred Heart hospital in Eau Claire, February 8, 1912, aged 72 years. Deceased was born in Norway, and when quite young came with his parents to Wisconsin, settling in LaCrosse County and later removed to the Town of Arcadia, locating among the new settlers in the Tamarack valley, where he cleared up a farm. About 30 years ago he removed with his family to Drammen, Eau Claire County, where he opened up a farm and on which he had resided until being taken to the hospital. He leaves a wife, six sons and two daughters. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - FEBRUARY 12, 1912
HANS M. QUAMME (SONFJORD)
Hans M. Quamme, 79, a resident of Tacoma, Washington, died suddenly October 11 at 3741 East K Street, where he lived with his stepdaughter, Mrs. Gertrude Hitzelberger. He was a member of the Lutheran church. Survivors are a daughter, Mrs. Tena Johnson; three stepdaughters, Mrs. Gertrude Hitzelberger, Mrs. Lena Mattson and Mrs. Clara Elland; three sisters, Mrs. Chris Lokken in Oslo, Norway; Mrs Frank Kaiser and Mrs. Adrian Hay of Racine, Wisconsin; and one brother, Martin, of North Dakota. Besides his wife, who died February 5, 1934, two stepsons, Louis and Herman, and one brother, Henry, preceded him in death. Funeral services were held October 14, at the C.O. Lynn Company Chapel, the Rev. Burton Smith presiding. Burial was in the Tacoma cemetery. Hans M. Quamme was born in Sonjord, Norway, March 23, 1864. He came to America in 1882. After living out west for 16 years, he came to Wisconsin and settled in Pigeon Falls. In 1895 he was married to Katerine Hanson, a widow of Torger Hanson (Skogstad). They resided on her farm about two miles east of Pigeon Falls, now the Mrs. Herman Hanson farm, for several years. They then went to Tacoma, Washington, where he had a hotel at 15th and Market Streets for four years. He then took up fishing and at one time was captain of a fishing boat. He had been inactive for many years and lived with his stepdaughter, Mrs. Hitzelberger until his death. He was well known in this community and had many friends here. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 4, 1943
LARS J. QUAMMEN (EIDFJORD, HARDANGER)
Lars Jenson Quammen was born in Eidfjord, Hardanger, Norway on April 25, 1841. His parents, Jens and Anna Quammen came to this country during the year 1856, Lars Quammen following two years later, 1858. At the age of 18 years he went to Dane County where he was employed on farms around Deerfield. In 1866 he took as his wife, Anna Leland, also of Dane County. They were blessed with seven children, five sons and two daughters, of whom six are living. The oldest son, James, preceded his parents in death. He died in the year 1902. His wife, Anna, passed away in 1921. Six children survive to mourn his death. The oldest, Ed, living on the old homestead; Andrew of Lindsay, Montana; Lewis of Brawley, California; Mrs. Henry Legreid who lives on part of the homestead; Albert of Blair and Mrs. Gustav Tippin of Minneapolis. Two brothers also survive him, Ed. of Madison and Ole of North Dakota. In the spring of 1875 Lars Quammen came to Beaver Creek and settled on the farm which has been his home until the time of his death. His age was 89 years, 10 months and 22 days. His death occurred March 5, 1931. His funeral was conducted from the Quammen homestead and from the North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church Sunday, March 8, Pastor Urberg officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 12, 1931
MRS. HANS QUAMME (ARENDAHL)
Mrs. Louise Katherina Quamme died Monday, February 5,1934, at 4:30 p.m. at her home at 3741 East Kay Street, Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 79 years, one month and 20 days. Louise Katherina Danielsdatter was born in Arendahl, Norway, December 16, 1855. She was baptized and confirmed in her native land, and at the age of 19 years, she journeyed to America with Rev. and Mrs. E.M. Christophersen. That was in 1874. She continued to live with the Christophersens, making her home with them with the exception of a few years when she was employed at Merrillan. She was married to Thorger Hansen in the year 1879 at LaCrosse. The young couple settled on the Thorger farm, near Pigeon Falls, now owned by Peter Burt. Later they sold this place and purchased the Peter Ekern farm in the Pigeon Valley, the place that is now owned by their oldest son, Herman D. Hanson. Mr. and Mrs. Hansen were blessed with five children, three daughters and two sons; namely, Gertie, Clara, Herman, Lena and Louis, the last of whom passed away in 1910 at the age of 18 years. The husband died in 1893. In 1895 Mr. Hansen was joined in married to Hans Quamme of Northfield. One daughter, Thora Bettina, and one son who died in infancy, blessed this union. The Quamme family left Wisconsin for Tacoma, Washington in 1901 where Mr. Quamme engaged in the fishing industry and rose to the position of captain of a large fishing boat. Deceased was a member of the Synod Lutheran church of Pigeon and a faithful worker in the Ladies Aid of that congregation. In the west, she joined the Bethlehem Lutheran church , and it was from there that her funeral services were held on Saturday afternoon, February 10. Rev. H. O. Scoby officiating. Burial was made in the city cemetery. Prior to her passing Mrs. Quamme had been in poor health for several years, during which time her daughter, Mrs. Hitzelberer, was her constant caretaker, especially so in the last two months of her life when she was confined to her bed. Survivors are the mourning husband, Hans Quamme, and the following children: Gertie, Mrs. Martin Hitzelberger; Clara, Mrs. Henry Meland and Mrs. Tina Johnson, all of Tacoma; Lena, Mrs. Mathson of Los Angeles, California; and Herman D. Hansen of Pigeon. There are also 11 grandchildren, Howard Meland, Ruth Hitzelberger and Harriet Johnson of Tacoma, Kenneth, Gordon and Lucile Mathson of Los Angeles, and Thilmen, Myrtle, Katherine, Harriet and Doris Hanson of Pigeon. She also had one sister, Mrs. Gus Lundstaed of Whitehall, who preceded her in death. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 22, 1934
MRS LEWIS RASMUSSEN (TRONHJEM)
Funeral services were held at the First Baptist church Monday afternoon for Mrs. Lewis Rasmussen, 69, who died at the Community Hospital Thursday, March 9, at 8:30 a.m. where she had been a patient almost continuously since January, suffering with pleurisy. The Rev. Harold Salseth officiated at the last rites and a quartet composed of Reuben, Clinton and Alene Dissmore and Mrs. Henrik Herness sang �Some Day We�ll Understand,� �The Lights of Home� and �Abide With Me.� Miss Alice Larson furnished the piano music. Reuben Dissmore, Ralph Thompson, Kenneth Berdan, Henrik Herness, Wilfred Merman and Horace Grover were pallbearers and the flowers were carried by Mmes. Rueben Dissmore, Henrik Herness, Horace Grover and Ralph Thompson. Burial was in Lincoln cemetery beside her husband, who died four years ago this spring. As Marie Caroline Anderson, Mrs. Rasmussen was born August 12, 1874 in Tronhjem, Norway, the daughter of Sven Anderson and his wife, Anna Johnson. When she was seven years old the family came to this country, setting in the vicinity of Baldwin, Wisconsin. Later they moved to Woodville, Wisconsin and there Marie Caroline was joined in marriage to the Rev. Lewis Rasmussen on November 18, 1896. The Rev. Rasmussen, a Baptist minister, had a charge at Houston, Minnesota at the time and there the couple settled. Later they resided at Valley City, North Dakota and Halfway Creek, LaCrosse County, where Mr. Rasmussen served a congregation. About 40 years ago he retired from the ministry and moved his family to the farm in Irvin coulee two miles south of Whitehall that is now owned and occupied by Miss Emma Melby. The family resided on this farm until the spring of 1920, when Mr. Rasmussen purchased Fair Oaks Dairy a mile west of Whitehall, buying it from John Schroeder, now of Alma Center. Mr. Schroeder had operated a year after purchasing it from Fred Lowe now of Evansville, Wisconsin, who established the dairy business there. The Rasmussens have continued to operate it since that time, furnishing milk and cream to the City of Whitehall. Within the past couple of years they have bought out the Nehring and Foss dairies and are now the only furnishers of these products here. Mr. Rasmusen turned the dairy over to his sons Reuben and Ernest in 1932, when he was elected clerk of the circuit court for Trempealeau County, but he and his wife continued to reside there until their deaths. The surviving children are Reuben, Ernest and Gladys of Whitehall; Myrtle, Mrs. A.R. Bertelson of Spring Valley, Wisconsin; Ruth, Mrs. Myron Zich of Rochester, Minnesota; Walter of Knoxville, Kentucky; Elsie of Whitehall and Harold of Lodi, Wisconsin. She also leaves five grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. N.K. Larson of Whitehall and Mrs. Elizabeth Jacobson of Seattle Washington and one brother, Peter I. Anderson of Baldwin. All the children from a distance and their wives and husbands came for the funeral together with Mr. and Mrs. P.I. Anderson of Baldwin. There were many memorials to the deceased, besides the floral offerings, testifying to the esteem in which she and her family are held. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 16, 1944
LOUIS RASMUSSEN (NORWAY) Louis Rasmussen, 71, a resident of the Whitehall community for more than 36 years died Saturday at his farm home west of Whitehall. Mr. Rasmusen was born in Norway on October 11, 1868. He served as a Baptist minister at Valley City, North Dakota; Houston, Minnesota; and LaCrosse and Halfway Creek over a period of eight years. He farmed for 6 years, first in Irvin Coulee and then on the farm west of Whitehall known as Fair Oak Dairy. He was clerk of court of Trempealeau County six years, retiring in 1938 Funeral services were conducted Monday by the Rev. Gordon C. Smith at the Whitehall First Baptist church. Burial in Lincoln cemetery. He is survived by his wife, four daughters, Mrs. Arnold (Myrtle) Bertelson of Spring Valley, Wisconsin; Mrs. Myron (Ruth) Zick of Rochester; Elsie, Pigeon Falls school teacher; and Gladys at home; four sons, Reuben at home; Ernest of Whitehall; Walter of Ellsworth, Wisconsin and Harold of Weyewea and a sister, Mrs. Clarence Peterson of Norway. THE BLAIR PRESS - APRIL 4, 1940
MRS. CHRIS. RAMSLEY (SWEDEN)
Ms. Chris Ramsley, a resident of the Town of North Bend, died on March 20, 1924, at the age of 44 years. Mrs. Ramsley had been ill for a period of about three weeks with heart trouble and other complications. The deceased was a native of Sweden, but came to the United States with her parents at the age of six years. She was united in marriage to Chris. Ramsley eighteen years ago and has since resided on a farm in the Town of North Bend. Mrs. Ramsley is survived by her husband, two brothers and two sisters, namely, Adolph Henrickson, of Independence, Wisconsin; Holvor Hendrickson, Melrose, Wisconsin; Mrs. Elsie Hogenson, Two Harbors, Minnesota; Mrs. Theodore Surlund, Duluth, Minnesota. The funeral services were held at the South Beaver Creek church on Saturday, March 22nd conducted by Rev. Bestule and interment made in the cemetery there. There was a large attendance at the services, including all of her relatives, old friends and neighbors. THE ETTRICK ADVANCE - APRIL 4, 1924
MRS. ELI RANES (SURENDALEN)
Eli Haanstad was born in Surendalen, Norway, November 9, 1846. In this community she grew to womanhood and was married to Frederick Ranes in the year 1866. For a number of years she and her husband continued living there, after which they resided in Trondhjem for four years In 1881, with husband and children, she immigrated to America and settled on a farm near Strum, Wisconsin where they lived for six years and from where they moved to Porter Mills, where they made their home for ten years. About 40 years ago the family came back to Strum and here Mrs. Ranes resided until her death January 15. Her husband preceded her in death for 23 years. During the last 12 or more years of her life, although of fairly good health, she was too feeble to take part in any social affairs or to go to church. As long as she could see to read her Bible and other Christian literature she was happy. In her later years, her eyesight became so poor that she was practically bind and her hearing also was much impaired so that she could not hear ordinary conversation. In spite of that she was always cheerful and did not complain of her lot. On January 4 she had a slight attack of bronchitis, which proved too much for her enfeebled condition. She slept away peacefully January 15 at the age of 92 years. She was the mother of ten children, four of whom preceded her in death. They were Frederick, John, Peter and Anna. The children living to mourn her departure are: Aneta of North Dakota; Mrs. Ida Isaacson, Eleva; Mathilda, Waukegan, Illinois; and Ellen, at home. There are 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; also two sisters, Mrs. Margaret Hess, Park Raids, Minnesota and Mrs. Mollie Wenaas of Norway. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the St. Paul�s church, the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe officiating. Burial was in the St. Paul�s cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - FEBRUARY 2, 1939
MRS. OLE (CLARA) RHUDE) (NORWAY)
Funeral services were held Wednesday at the Runnestrand funeral chapel, Ettrick, and at French Creek Lutheran church with the Rev. H. O. Assen officiating for Mrs. Clara Rhude, 70, who died Sunday, August 4, 1946 at a LaCrosse hospital where she had been a patient for a few weeks. Burial was in French Creek cemetery. Mrs. Rhude had been in failing health since she suffered a fractured hip a year ago in December. She was born in Norway April 3, 1876, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bakken. She was married May 23, 1903 to Ole Rhude who died August 7, 1934. The couple was engaged in farming in the French Creek Valley. Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Rhude had lived alternatively with her son and daughter. Survivors include a brother, John Bakken of Pequot, Minnesota; a son, Percival of Tamarack Valley; a daughter, Mrs. Norman Sorenson of Arcadia and a grandson, Warren Lee Rhude. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 15, 1946
HANS PETERSON RAUBAKKEN (NORWAY)
Hans Peterson Raubakken passed away at his home in the Town of Springfield, on Wednesday, October 24, 1923, at the ripe old age of 85 years, 9 months and 22 days. The funeral services were held on Friday, conducted by Rev. Fosso, of Taylor. Mr. Peterson was born in Norway on January 2, 1838, and came to America in his young manhood. He resided in the Town of Springfield more than 55 years. His wife passed away on February 3, 1923. He is survived by one step-daughter, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His step-daughter is Mrs. Sena Matheson of Kettle Falls, Washington. Other near relatives are two nephews Christian Engebretson of Disco and Matt R. Olson of Taylor. Mr. Peterson was held in the highest esteem by the many who had known him during the more than half century he had been resident of Springfield. He was a Christian gentleman of sterling qualities of mind and character, and his declining years were made happy by that faith which had been the guide of his life. He failed steadily in the past few months, and at the approach of death, bade his friends farewell and earnestly requested that they seek the same consolation in a religious way which had been his great comfort. During his latter years he was tenderly cared for by Mr. and Mrs. Matt R. Olson, on whose farm his residence was located. In his passing, his home town has lost one of its good citizens, one whose conscientious life was an influence for good. His relatives have the sympathy of his many friends in their sorrow. Reprinted from the Jackson County Journal. THE TAYLOR HERALD - NOVEMBER 9, 1923
MAREN REIRSON (GRUE, SOLOR)
Maren Reirson, daughter of Peder Pederson Berger and Eli Berger, was born in Grue, Solor, Norway, May 17, 1864. She came to America in 1869, and was united in marriage the same year to Reir Reirson Lundeby. They settled in Trump Coulee on the farm where Olaf Anderson now lives. In 1877 they sold the farm and moved to Blair. Mr. Reirson died in 1880. The next two years she conducted a hotel in Merrillan, after which she returned to Blair and lived with her brother, Hans Berger, at the Scandia house. She enjoyed good health until about two years ago when she suffered an attack of appendicitis. Again she was quite well until about two weeks ago, when she was attacked with the same trouble, which was the cause of her death. She died peacefully July 5th and was buried July 8, 1914. Funeral services were held from the home and the United Lutheran church, of which she was a member. She leaves to mourn her death two brothers, Peder Pederson Berger of Norway and Hans P. Berger of Blair, besides other relatives and a host of friends in Blair and vicinity. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JULY 16, 1914
BENJAMIN L. RENNING (SOLOR)
Benjamin L. Renning passed away at his home in Welch Coulee Saturday morning at 4:30 May 4, 1929, at the age of 70 years. Death was due to apoplexy, following an illness of three years. Deceased was born June 28, 1859 in Solor, Norway. He left Norway when he was a young man after he had gone through a two year course in the state military school for under officers (the Norske Jagerkorps Under Officer Skole), and landed in this country May 5, 1882. After working in various places, he settled down in Welch Coulee which is well known under the name Viking Farm. He served for several years in the town board of Preston. Besides his wife, he leaves to mourn his death two sons and one daughter; Lawrence and Parker of Welch Coulee and Myrtle, Mrs. H. Hermanson of Whitehall; two grandchildren; also two brothers and three sisters in Norway. He was preceded in death by three sons, Blaine, Breat and Norman. Funeral services were held at the First Lutheran church here Tuesday, May 7, Rev. S.S. Urberg officiating. Interment was made in the Blair cemetery. The pallbearers were Ole Erickson, Theodore Erickson, Louis Gunderson, Charles Knutson, P.G. Gunderson and Matt Jahr. Those present from a distance were his nephew and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Renning, Minneapolis. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 9, 1929
MRS. MARTHA N. RHUDE (VARDAL)
Mrs. Martha N. Rhude, 79, of LaCrosse, died at the home of her daughter Sunday evening. She was born in Vardal, Norway October 6, 1865. For many years she resided on a farm in the French Creek valley. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Gust Olson, LaCrosse; three sons, Oscar of Racine, Claus of Baraboo and Alvin of Knoxville, Tennessee; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Wednesday in LaCrosse and at the French Creek Lutheran church. The Reverends George Ulvilden of LaCrosse and H.O. Aasen officiated and burial was in French Creek cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 22, 1945
MRS. OLIVE RENNING (SOLOR)
Mrs. Olive Renning passed away at the Community Hospital in Whitehall last Wednesday morning following an illness of two days with double pneumonia. She became ill quite suddenly Monday evening at her home and was taken by ambulance to the hospital where she died at the age of 83 years, and eight months (January 28, 1953). As Olivia Gunderson, the daughter of Gunder and Olena Nyen Gundersn, she was born May 23, 1869 in Solor, Norway. She came to this country wit her parents at the age of three years and the family settled in Welch Coulee, Town of Preston. As a young woman she worked as a maid until her marriage to Benjamin Renning on August 21, 1888. They settled on the Renning farm in Welch Culee now occupied by her son, Parker Renning. This was their home until the death of her husband in 1929 after which she moved to Whitehall to reside with her daughter, Mrs. Henry Hermanson. After the death of her daughter in 1931, Mrs. Renning returned to Blair to spend her remaining days. She is survived by two sons, Parker on the home place and Lawrence who lives on Arneson Ridge She is also survived by three grandchildren, Clinton Renning and Mrs. Howard Overby of Welch Coulee and Mrs. Lester Forseth of Whitehall; two brothers, Albert Gunderson of Black River Falls and John Gunderson of Outlook, Montana. She also has a number of nieces and nephews besides a host of friends who are left to mourn her passing. She was preceded in death by her husband, a daughter Myrtle, Mrs. Henry Hermanson and three sons, Great, Norman and Blaine, who died of influenza in an army camp near Indianapolis in March 1898 while serving with the Armed Forced. Also preceding her in death were two sisters, Laura and Mrs. Lena Sonnenberg who died in Minneapolis about two months ago and three brothers, Carl and Otto Gunderson of Minneapolis and Gunder Gunderson of Blair. Mrs. Renning was well liked by all ho knew her and was always ready to give a helping hand to anyone who needed her. She was a kind and loving mother. She was an active member of the church and Ladies Aid until illness and old age prevented such activities. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, January 31, at the First Lutheran Church with the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Burial was in Rest Haven cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 5, 1953
NAKANA RENNING (TRYSIL)
Mrs. Renning was born November 1, 1848 on a farm known as Lomlenes in Solor, Norway. Her parents were Karl and Marit Nelson. In the parish where she was born, she grew to womanhood. She was confirmed by Pastor Bull and by him she was afterwards married to Kornelius Kristofferson Renning. Renning was probably originally �Ronning.� In 1870, with her first child Ida, and her husband, Mrs. Renning came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. In and around Blair was then, and probably is now, one of the biggest settlements in America of Soloringer-people from the district in which she was born. When the Rennings came, only the very poorest and out-of-the way homestead land was left for entry. On top of the ridge, between the towns of Preston and Ettrick, they found three forties of land which they homesteaded and began the building of their home in the Town of Ettrick, close to where U.S. Highway N. 53 now runs. Here, on the west side of the road, remnants of the home can still be seen - a windmill, cistern and granary. It was a place of isolation, for they had to wait years for a road. It was a place where hardships, privations and immeasurable toil grimly challenged them. But it had compensations also. Here the sun came early and lingered late. Here the fever-breeding miasma of low lands could not reach them. Here the stifling, enervating rays of noonday suns were mitigated by the free and purer breezes that fan the heights. Here the denizens of the wind, banished by cultivation of the valleys, gave them comfort and companionship. Here in moments of leisure, their eyes could wander over hills and valleys to far horizons, to bring them dreams and visions of life�s greater realities. And here, these twain, wrought with the heroism which necessity sometimes begets. Their innate strength, their purposes and their sense of duty to work out their own financial independence were traits born and nurtured in their native country, through generations of forefathers and mothers, who had commanded seas, mountains and rock-ribbed soils to give them support. But when we consider the roughness of the land they entered, the grubby character of the soil, the toil and expense to secure water, the fact that years must pass before they could raise fodder for horses or cattle, the further fact that no timber was there to furnish material for buildings, it seems almost incredible, that without money, these people dared to attempt such an undertaking. But they were young, strong, frugal and industrious. In summer the man dug from the hillsides the fire-hardened grubs, broke up patches of land he had cleared, and in winter he worked in the pineries for wages that most of our modern laborers would scorn. In many respects the woman�s lot was harder than the man�s. During the husbands absence, all the responsibility for the care and maintenance of the home rested on her. For a long time water had to be carried from a spring up hill, 80 rods distant from the home. By this spring, for years, the milk and cream had to be kept during the summer months. The task of carrying things to and from the spring fell mostly and literally on the woman�s shoulders, for she used for this purpose a neck-yoke her husband had made. It was no fault of the husband, that her tasks were many and heavy for as soon as he could, he dug with his own hands with crude implements, a well forty feet deep-more than thirty feet through solid rock. But the well failed to give sufficient water. Then came a man with the magic �divining rod� and found place where he said abundant water would be found. So the husband dug another well through dirt and rock forty feet deep, but this proved to be no better than the first. Finally they were able to hire Elmer Immell and Tom Lokken to drill a well to a depth of 180 feet. Later on a windmill and cistern were built. Thus they conquered elemental difficulties one by one. During the many hard first years, their cattle were housed in a straw stable. But there came better days when they were able to build a large substantial barn and a comfortable house. For the barn, the husband hewed all the square timber and did a large part of the construction and erection, for Mr. Renning was not only a diligent worker but a resourceful and ingenious constructor. I wish I could find the old-fashioned board ax he used to such good purpose, and the equally efficient neck-yoke used by his wife. They would be sacred emblems of almost unexampled toil, to place in the House of Memories. Pardon the digression. I must go on with the story. Not long after the barn was completed lightning struck it and it as burned to the ground. But we must carry on! So they thought, and built another barn in another place. But providence, or what you please to call it, tested their courage and endurance again by sending another bolt from electrical conflicts in storm-shipped clouds, and the second barn was reduced to ashes. But we must carry on, even when the wrath chambers of the gods seems to pour destruction around us! So they thought, and built again. Then came a tornado-a whirling fiend of the air-and once more wrecked the barn. In December 1908 Mr. Renning and his wife sold the farm to their son, Curnill Renning. March 9, 1909, Mr. Renning worn, weary and bowed by care and toil went to this eternal rest After the death of her husband, Mrs. Renning bought a piece of land on the south side of Zion church in Blair and built another home. Here she lived for several years. The last ten or twelve years, she spent with relatives in the city of Milwaukee and there at the home of a granddaughter, after a brief illness, aged 83 years and seven months, she fell asleep June 2, 1932. Her body was brought to Blair. Her funeral conducted by Rev. Sweger, was held in Zion church June 4. After a widowhood of more than 23 years, she was laid by the side of her husband in Zion cemetery. In person, Mrs. Renning was tall, spare and straight. This attitude she retained to the last. She must have been in her late sixties when I saw her last. She then moved with an ease and grace which many women have lost before they reach 45 years. During the building of their home on their hill-crest, she gave birth to eight children, among them two sets of twins. And during all the years they lived there, a doctor never was called. When children were born, some pioneer woman assisted at their birth and all the children she bore are living. One of the old settlers recalls how for many years she used to help her husband in haying time. They got their hay from a forty of land in Reynolds Coulee belonging to Martin Skyrud. This was a slough-forty-soft, boggy and miry, when even oxen could not be used. Here she waden among the bogs year after year, bunching the hay and afterwards pulling it together on poles. Then came the stacking. Someone may say, �She must have had a cruel or negligent husband� But no one who knew Mrs. Renning and her husband would say that. She did not do things because she was bidden by any man. She did what she did, like most of our best pioneer women, as a matter of course, and as part of her duty as wife and mother. She was an intelligent woman with the wisdom harvested through ages of toil and hardships. In her being was some of the hardness of the mountains amidst which she was born; some of the dynamic force of the great waterfalls of her native country; some of the spirit of adventure, ambition and commanding power of Viking ancestors. In practical affairs of life she sought no aid from feminine charms or weaknesses. All who came in contact with her in business affairs felt the dominance of her will and the clearness of her judgment. She lacked neither grace of form nor comeliness of countenance, but she never stooped to conquer. When at sunset she sometimes climbed the high knoll, just west of her home-which looks like the cupola of a Buddhist temple-to call the cattle home, she looked like a Norse chieftainess, born to rule. She acquired neither fame nor riches, but she left nine children sound in mind and body Their names are: Ida Renning, Charles Renning, Curnill Renning, Amanda Breosig, Oscar Renning, Nellie Renning, Kate Weyhranch, Clara Kendal and Ole C. Renning. She is also survived by a brother, Charles Charlson of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and a sister, Kristi Kopang of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. I have written at considerable length concerning this woman. First, because there are not may of her kind left. Second, because she was typical of a host of pioneer women. I can call to memory the names of many who could stand by her side in the very first rank of pioneer women, but would find it difficult to name the greatest among them. They were the women who worked to the limit of their strength and obeyed the fundamental laws of God and nature They reached an altitude in wifehood, motherhood, womanhood and social upbuilding, that only a few of the present generation will ever attain. Not because we have not the material for as good women as ever peopled the earth, but because necessity does not compel the development of qualities which were absolutely necessary to success in the wilderness state of our community. Long may the memory of such women as Nekana Renning live and inspire men and women to life�s highest ideals. Written by H.A. Anderson in Whitehall on June 19, 1932. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JUNE 23, 1932
KARELIUS RENNING - CORNELIUS CHRISTOPHERSEN (VAALER, SOLOR) Cornelius Christophersen, who died on the 9th inst. Of pulmonary tuberculosis at his home in Preston, was 60 years and 9 months old. He leaves nine children, four sons and five daughters. The funeral was held last Friday, Rev. Gulbrandson conducting the services. (NOTE: HIS NAME IN NORWAY WAS KARELIUS KRISTOFFERSON STUTRUDRONNIGEN). THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - MARCH 18, 1909
ANDREW J. RINGLIEN (S. LAND)
Andrew J. Ringlien was born April 29, 1857, at Sara-stuen, Sondre Land, Norway. His parents were Johannes and Maria Sara-stuen. Sara-stuen was a freehold, carved out of the dominant estate known as Ringlien. Ringlien was a large estate, bordering on the Kamsfjord which, notwithstanding it�s name, is really a lake about 45 miles long and in places several miles wide. It is of great depth, so that large steamers have for years voyaged over its crystal waters The people from Land always grow eloquent when asked to describe this district. It is one of the richest districts in Norway, and for beauty of situation, few places excel it. Along both sides of the fjord lie fertile lands, sloping gently upwards toward mountains on either side. In earlier days these slopes were covered with valuable timber. Many of the farms are large. The Wilberg farm, for instance, which lies close to the Ringlien farm, was seven miles long and three miles wide. And for years the occupants of these farms lived in almost baronial splendor. They kept private tutors for their children, maintained a large number of croftors or tenants, who paid for tenancies by working for the dominant estate a certain number of days every year during the time of their occupancy. Sometimes these tenancies became freeholds and the servitude of the tenant ended. I am informed this was the case with Sara-tuen. This always indicates thrift and unusual ability on the part of the tenant. From the limited information I have concerning Mr. Ringlien�s father, mother and his brothers and sisters, I conclude they were thrifty, intelligent and ambitious people. Andrew was the only member of the family that came to this country. He came here in 1883, direct to Pigeon. He worked for some years for Even Erickson and Christian Tangen. Also a few winters in the woods. Later on he became a clerk in the P. Ekern store, where he worked two or three years. On April 4, 1890 he married Helina Maria Knudtson, a daughter of Olaus Knudtson, one of the substantial farmers in Dagget Coulee, and soon afterward bought his fathering-law�s farm, where he tended until his death, May 30, 1933. Mr. Ringlien enjoyed fair health until about two years ago. On January 25, the present year, he had a �stroke� and from that time on, life had little interest for him although consciousness continued up to a few days before he passed way. His wife died September 26, 1909. Mr. Ringlien leaves eight children, seven boys and one girl. Their names are Olger, Nettie, Arthur, Arnold, Axel, Herman, Menick and Erling. He also is survived by some brothers and sisters in Norway. At the funeral conducted by Reverend Christophersen at Pigeon Falls, June second, all the children were present. It was an impressive and beautiful rite, to witness six sturdy sons carry their father to his final place of rest while the seventh son supported the toil-worn sister, who has so long presided over her father�s home. �God bless her for her unfaltering loyalty and devotion� is the prayer of all who have known her. �By their fruits ye shall know them,� is one of the eternal truths of life. Mr. and Mrs. Ringlien were not brilliant stars either in the social or the political firmament. They were simply hard-working, thrifty people, who prospered by conforming to the rules and laws of a quiet, normal and unostentatious life. But they left a group of children of whom any father or mother might be proud. I can conceive of no more splendid fruitage of a married life than a healthy, intelligent group of children, who have learned to live in consonance with the sacred maxims of right. From our human standpoint, it seems a pity that the Angel Mother who was called away before any of her children had developed the character by which the world shall judge them, cannot come back long enough to point to them and say to the world like Cornelia of old: �These are my jewels-the most eminent-reward to my pains, toils, sacrifices.� The father was more fortunate, he lived long enough to behold the objects of his purest and highest ambition grow up into pure womanhood and strong manhood. And when the closing hours came, he could say: �I have seen the chief result of my life and am satisfied.� I have known Mr. Ringlien practically since he came to Pigeon, and as I turn from his incoffined form, can truly say of him: He has been, in many respects, one of the fortunate sons of man. May the fruit of his loins, prosper in the sight of God and man for generations to come. Written by H.A. Anderson, June 4, 1933 THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JUNE 8, 1933
CARL K. RISBERG (SOLAR)
Carl K. Risberg was born at Solar, Norway, on the 22nd day of October, 1860. At the age of 20 he emigrated to the United States and settled in the Town of Chimney Rock where he had his home for 45 years until the time of his death. In 1887 he was married to Emilie Gunderson, who preceded him in death nearly 11 years ago, His eldest son, Marshal, died five years ago at the age of 31. After a short illness, Carl Risberg died suddenly at his home in Chimney Rock on the first of March 1926 at the age of 64 years, 4 months and 7 days. He leaves to mourn his death the following children: Marna Rice of Strum; Lillian Groh of Los Angeles, California; Marion Risberg of Chicago Illinois; and Clarence, Evelyn, Janice and his adopted son Everett, at home. He is survived by his brother Martin Risberg in Norway; P.K. Risberg, Eleva; Knut Risberg, Chimney Rock; Mrs. John Mattson and Mrs. O.M. Risberg, both of Chimney Rock, and besides three grandchildren. The funeral took place from the Chimney Rock church, of which the deceased was an active member the 5th of March. Rev. Wichman officiated. The choir rendered several selections. The abundance of flowers and the large funeral procession gave ample proof of the esteem in which deceased was held by friends and neighbors. H. Kjentvet had charge of the funeral. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 11, 1926
BERNT A. RISBERG (VALER, SOLAR)
Bernt A. Risberg was born at Vaaler, Solar, Norway, May 4, 1856. He was baptized, confirmed and grew to manhood in his native parish His marriage to Karen Martia Gaaskjolen of Elverum, Sondre Osterdalen was solemnized at the Elverum Lutheran church April 18, 1880. The following year the young couple with their eldest born son Alfred set sail for America and arrived in Blair June 11th, 1881. They bought the farm in Tappen Coulee which continued to be their home for a period of 47 years. Mr. Risberg was a highly successful farmer and his farm home in neatness and orderliness was one of the most attractive in the community. Here a large family was raised to young manhood and womanhood to go out and make their way in the world. In 1928 the Risbergs retired from farming ad moved into the home they had purchased from the Dahle estate in Blair October 18, 1929, where they have resided ever since. The farm was left the hand�s of their youngest son Myron. Mr. Risberg was a sufferer from asthma many years. Six years ago at the age of 80 he underwent a very serious operation at the Community hospital in Whitehall. The past year he has been confined to the home a great deal of the time. Although in weakened condition, his death came rather unexpectedly on Wednesday April 22, 1942. He lacked 12 days of reaching his 86th birthday. Besides the wife, the following children mourn the loss of a kind father who cherished them with devoted affection: Alfred, Fontier, Saskatchewan, Canada; Oscar, LaCrosse; Bennie Blair; Mrs. Clara Stevens, Mrs. Mabel Fowell and Camilla, Chicago; Mrs. Ella Elland Blair; and Myron on the home farm. A daughter Belle (Mrs. Robert Cook) died May 1, 1929 and was buried in the Zion cemetery on her father�s birthday. A son, Myland Harry, died in infancy in 1902. There are 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Only one brother, Kellot, survives. He lives in Vaaler, Solar. Funeral services were held Saturday, April 25th, 12:15 at the house and 12:30 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran church, Rev. T. E. Sweger officiating. The pallbearers were Elmer Anderson, Omar Austad, Emil Hanson, Elmer Everson, H.J. Matson and Frank Nelson. Interment was in the family lot in Zion cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS APRIL30, 1942
MRS. BERNT A RISBERG (ELVERUM)
Mrs. Bernt A. Risberg, a resident of Blair and Tappen Coulee for more than 65 years, was found dead in bed early Monday morning by her daughter, Mrs. Clara Stevens, having passed away very quietly in her sleep a short time before. Karen Martha Gaaskjolen was born October 13, 1860 and was christened and confirmed at the Elverum Lutheran church and grew to young womanhood in her native parish. Her marriage to Bernt Risberg of Vaaler Solar, Norway took place at Elverum Lutheran church on April 18, 1880. The following year the young couple, with their first son, Alfred, came to America and settled in Blair on June 11, 1881. They bought the farm in Tappen Coulee which was their home for 47 years. In 1928 Mr. and Mrs. Risberg retired from farming leaving the farm in the hands of their youngest son Myron, and moved to Blair where they lived in their present home which they purchased from the Dahl estate in October 1928. Mr. Risberg passed away April 22, 1942. Following his death, Mrs. Stevens remained at home and tenderly cared for her mother during her last years, Mrs. Risberg, the last member of a once large family was a long time member of the Zion Lutheran church and took an active part in the work of the church in her younger days Survivors are: four sons, Alfred of Canada; Oscar, LaCrosse; Bennie and Myron of Blair; four daughter, Camilla Risberg and Mrs. Haze Powel of Chicago; Mrs. Ella Hovre of Ettrick and Mrs. Clara Stevens formerly of Chicago. One daughter, Belva, and one baby son, preceded her in death. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 o�clock and at the Zion Lutheran church at 2:00 o�clock, with the Rev. Luther S. Borgen officiating. Interment was in the Zion cemetery. THE BLAIR PRESS - JULY 1, 1946
ROBERT P. RISBERGET (ELVERUM)
Funeral services for Robert P. Risberget, 81, were held in the Trempealeau Valley church Monday afternoon December 27 with the Rev. B. J. Hatlem officiating, Mrs. Hatlem sang �Rock of Ages� and �Evgang Min Livstrood Briste Skal� with Mrs. Verdel Hanson at the organ. Robert P. Risberget was born in Elverum, Norway August 10, 1867. The family were among the early settlers of Vosse Culee. Mr. Risberget had been a resident of Gheen, Minnesota for many years and had been employed as a timber worker there until he retired several years ago. He had been in poor heath for several months and confined to the Municipal hospital at Virginia, Minnesota since November 24. He died at the hospital early Tuesday morning, December 23, 1948, and the remains were brought to Blair Monday. Mr. Risberget is survived by several nieces and nephews in this country and two brothers in Norway. A brother, Peter O. Risberget, preceded him in death on September 3, 1946. Theodore Pederson of St. Louis Park, Minnesota came for the last rites. Pallbearers were Philip Peterson, Norman Peterson, Ingvald, Palmer and Selmer Koxlien and Arvin Anderson. THE BLAIR PRESS - DECEMBER 30, 1948
OLUF RISBERG (VAALER, SOLAR)
Oluf Risberg was born in Vaaler Parish, Norway, October 1, 1864. At the age of two years he and his parents came to this country settling in Chimney Rock. In 1885 he was united in marriage to Martine Risberg and to this union nine children were born, two of whom died in infancy. Mr. Risberg enjoyed good health until the late summer of 1947, when he was accidentally hit by a car. His health failed from that time and passed peacefully away February 28, 1948. His wife, Martin, a daughter, Mrs. Martha Jarvar and one son, Melvin, of McConnelsville, Ohio, preceded him in death. Survivors are two daughters, Mrs. Nora Werlein of Mondovi and Mrs. Myrtle Anderson of Milwaukee and three sons, Ole, Arthur and Palmer of Strum. He also leaves 14 grandchidren and seven great-grandchildren Funeral services were held at the Chimney Rock Lutheran church on March 2 at 2 p.m., the Rev. A.H. Grimstad officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MARCH 11, 1948
MRS. MARTHINA RISBERG (VAALER, SOLAR)
Mrs. Marthina Risberg was born at Vaaler Parish, Norway on the 19th of April 1858. She was the third child of a family of eight children, four brother and four sisters. Her childhood days were spent at Vaaler where she lived until the age of 26 when she immigrated to America. She came to Chimney Rock where she has had her home ever since. In 1885 she was united in marriage to Oluf M. Risberg and to this union eight children were born, of which one died in infancy. Mrs. Risberg has been in poor health the last years and in February 1925, she suffered a stroke of paralysis from which she never fully recovered and on December 7 of this year, she passed away suddenly at the age of 68 years, 7 months and 18 days. Besides her husband, she leaves the following children to mourn her death: Melvin Risberg of McConnelsville, Ohio; Mrs. Martha Jarver, Eau Claire; Mrs. Nora Werlein, Mondovi; Mrs. Myrtle Anderson, Strum, and Ole, Arthur and Palmer Risberg of Chimney Rock. She is survived by three brothers, Knut Risberg of Chimney Rock; P.K. Risberg of Eleva and Martin K. Risberg of Aasnes, Norway. She also leaves nine grandchildren. The funeral took place from the Chimney Rock church December 11. The choir sang �Sun of My Soul Thou Savior Dear,� and �My Faith Looks up to Thee.� Rev. Wichmann officiated and H.L. Kjentvet had charge of the funeral. THE WHITEHALL TIMES DECEMBER 16, 1926
KNUTE K. RISBERG (ELVERUM)
Funeral services were held at the Chimney Rock Lutheran church October 25 for Knute K. Risberg, 79, who died at the Arcadia hospital October 19 where he had been a patient for a week. Burial was in the church cemetery. The Rev. P. C. Danielson officiated and Mrs. Perry Kolve sang. Mr. Risberg was born September 22, 1869 at Elverum, Solar, Norway, son of Knute and Marthe Risberg. He was the youngest of a family of eight children. He was baptized and confirmed in the United Lutheran church in his native country. At the age of 24 years, he came to America, first making his home with the Eric Larsons. He worked in Eau Claire and other cities and was also employed by logging companies, but the last years of his life were spent on the Olander Amundson farm in Chimney Rock. All his brothers and sisters preceded him in death, including Morton, Oline Johnson and Martha Runberg in Norway, Agnette Mattson, Martine, Carl and Paudor Risberg in this country. His only survivors are nephews and nieces, of whom A.B. Risberg of Whitehall is one. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - NOVEMBER 4, 1948
PAUDER K. RISBERG (VAALER, SOLAR)
Pauder K. Risberg was born on a farm known as Risberget , in the parish of Vaaler, district of Solar, Norway February 15, 1866. His parents were Knut and Martha Risberg. Risberget literally means: The Fagot Mountain. At the age of seventeen, Mr. Risberg came to Chimney Rock, this county, where his brother Carl and sister Agnette had preceded him. His first winter in this country he spent in doing chores and attending the district school in Chimney Rock. The following summer he worked on farms. The next fall he went to Eau Claire, where he found a home with Marcus Thrane, one of Norway�s first and most distinguished socialists, who had been imprisoned in Norway for three years on account of his radical social views. His most notorious achievement in this country was writing and publishing, �The Wisconsin Bible.� While staying with Mr. Thrane, Mr. Risberg attended a graded school during the winter of 1884-85. After that for several years he did any kind of labor that came to his hands. He worked for a while helping build a railroad in British Columbia. He worked several winters in the Wisconsin lumber camps. In summer time he worked on farms. He also managed to take a two year course at the Wittenberg Normal School and later on, he took a special teachers� course in the Northern Indiana University at Valparaiso. After this he taught as principal, the Chimney Rock school for nine years. In vacation time he taught Norwegian parochial school. He also taught vocal and instrumental music. In all church work he was always very active. In odd moments he found rest in carpentry and cabinet work. He worked incessantly, either with his hands or his brain and often, with both. On September 2, 1893 he married Agnette Larson, with whom he had eight children, all living. In 1903, he bought a small farm in the town where he spent most of his years of toil. He served this town as treasurer one year, as clerk five years and a chairman four years. He made his home on the farm in Chimney Rock until January 1, 1909, when he entered upon his duties as county clerk - a position he held for ten years At the termination of his duties as county clerk, he was called to charge of the Eleva State bank; from the beginning of the year 1919 until it was closed in June 1930 by order of the State Banking department. He was president and active manager of this bank. In addition to managing the bank, he was attorney, agent and adviser for hundreds of people in Trempealeau, Buffalo and Eau Claire counties. But though his capacity for work was extraordinary there was a limit. In the early part of 1930 he found it necessary to have a prostate gland operation. Before he fully recovered from this operation he had another minor operation. In March 1931, he had a nervous breakdown and in April the same year, he had an operation for hernia. Since then up to the time of his death, he had spells of dizziness and a couple of times, he lost consciousness. I have briefly mentioned some of his physical ailments, and the intelligent reader can imagine the sufferings he went through. But his physical sufferings were as a mole hill to a mountain, compared with the mental and spiritual agony he went through from the time the bank closed. I have used the word �spiritual� advisedly not in the sense that he suffered from sins which his God could not forgive. No, he suffered spiritually for mistakes he had made which man does not forgive He owed his fellowmen duties he could not perform, he owned them money which he could not pay. Do the ten commandments cover any sins greater than these? I met him often during the time of his Gethsemanic suffering; and only once during that time did I hear him complain. And that was in the nature of an involuntary exclamation. And as I look back, it vividly reminds me of that famous outcry on Golgotha nearly two thousand years ago: �My God, My God, Why hast thou forsaken me?� On November 24 came release - nature�s permanent Nepenthe. I attended his funeral and heard a sermon Divinely human. I have not space for details. And now, Dear Readers-especially you who may have suffered financially through the fault of failure of your one time esteemed friend, adviser and oft times helper, your attitude now, not hereafter, cannot affect the destiny of him whom history we are passing review. But your attitude may affect you very much your own destiny. I begin a little sermonette, with a quotation from that gifted, lovable, erratic and adventurous American poet, �Joachim� Miller - �In men whom men denounced as ill, I find so much goodness still; In men whom men pronounce divine, I find so much of sin and blot, I hesitate to draw the line, Between the two where God has not.� The lines quoted contain a truth which most of us can find daily use for. From the biographical sketch of Mr. Risberg, we can all draw certain conclusions as to his character more or less correctly. And those who knew him most intimately can make further estimates of his worth as a man. But after all, how many of us are capable of entering a final conclusive judgment. We are all, more or less, inclined to either magnify or belittle. To either praise or blame. We are all apt to read only one side of Life�s Ledger. We watch a man�s career for fifty years or more. We see him rise, step by step. We see him pause hundreds of times to help and counsel his fellowmen. We applaud him and cry his name in lusty huzzas to the world. We acclaim him great, just and generous. But suddenly a round in the ladder breaks. He falls, perhaps never to rise again. And with his fall, down go many of our hopes and expectations. Perhaps his fall means a money loss to us. Perhaps there are other things we expected from him to our advantage. In our chagrin and disappointment we are apt to forget all past favors received from him because of the one hurt his fall has caused us. The shadow that follows his misfortune falls like a curtain between his past and present-and we see only the present. I was acquainted with Mr. Risberg for about thirty years. During his ten years stay in Whitehall, I was perhaps more intimate with him than anyone else, outside of his family. He had much in common. He was one of a very few men in town that I could converse with intelligently on some life�s profounder topics. We differed just enough on religious questions to respect each other�s convictions, as both, however, recognized that nearly all faiths, dogmas, and theories are subject to evolutionary processes, and that life, with its constant discoveries and ever changing horizons cannot be reduced to a changeless formula. And thus we found an intense common interest in watching the ever unfolding plan of the Creator. In habits and behavior as a Christian no one excelled him, and with him, it was not a pose but a sincere endeavor to exemplify in his daily life the ideals of his belief. At the time Mr. Risberg was called to take charge of the bank at Eleva, he stood on an eminence that he had reached through hard work, clean living and ceaseless industry. And the honors and emoluments that had come to him were well earned. But in taking charge of the bank, he was entering a new and untried field. Perhaps he was not fitted for that kind of a position. Perhaps he overestimated his own abilities. Perhaps if he had attended to the bank business only, he would have been better off. Perhaps the people that asked him to undertake this job made a mistake. Perhaps neither he nor those who hired him foresaw the terrible aftermath of that universal madness called the �World War.� Perhaps hundreds who borrowed from that bank made a mistake when they promised to pay but have not and never will. Shall we call them crooks? No. Most of them intended and expected to pay when they borrowed. They probably overestimated their ability or failed to read the future correctly. Shall we put all or most of the blame on the banker-the lender-the one who gives and none on the one who gets? At any rate, before we bruise our hands throwing rocks at those who are down, let us carefully examine ourselves. It is a peculiar thing that we are so apt to condemn a man who had been good and really done things in the world much more, severely when he fails, than one who has never done anything worthwhile. I know there is no sin in the estimation of the public worse than failure. Had our now believed Lincoln failed to win in the struggle between the North and South, he would at this time be only a gaunt shadow on the pages of history. Had our revered Washington failed in his struggle for America liberty, he would have been ingloriously hung as an arch traitor. Had the Kaiser not failed, he would be sitting on top of the word today instead of languishing in exile. Had not Napoleon failed at Waterloo, he would not have died a madman on the barren, lonely Isle of St. Helena. If we are going to measure a man, let us take the average of his total acts and achievements and not judge him by isolated acts and incidents in his career. No doubt Mr. Risberg made many mistakes; and when we who now feel the effects of his mistakes, learn to avoid all mistakes, then we can get together and render our verdict. Until then, let us hesitate at drawing a line where God has not. Written by H.A. Anderson - December 20, 1931. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - DECEMBER 24, 1931
PEDER O. RISTUBEN (S. FRON, GULBRANDSDALEN)
Peder O. Ristuben died at his home near Taylor at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 17, 1929, after an illness of one month. He was 76 years and 10 months of age at the time of his death. Funeral services were held at his home at 12:30 P.M. Friday and at 2:00 p.m. at the Evangelical Lutheran church, in this city, Rev. C. Skoien officiating. Mrs. M.H. Moen rendered two vocal solos at the service. Interment was made at Riverside. Peder O. Ristuben was born at Sondrefron, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, February 7, 1853, a son of Ole and Mari Ristuben. He came to America for the first time in 1881, going directly to Union Grove, where he remained for six months and then came to Jackson County. Mr. Ristuben had worked as a lumber cruiser in Norway and continued to follow that line of work for over 50 years. When he came here, he spent the next ten years in charge of the Chapman Lumber Yards, located where the L. Olson Ellis residence now stands. He resigned that position to accept a better one in Dawson, Minnesota, where he had charge of the lumber yards for William Murray for the next nine years. After leaving there he had a position as shipping clerk in the lumber business at Chat, Minnesota, for a couple of years and then returned to this city and went from here to Fairchild, where for the next 16 years he was employed as shipping clerk for the Foster Lumber Company until their mill closed there and Mr. Foster went him to Eleva, where he was in charge of their lumber yards until Mr. Foster sold out. Mr. Ristuben then moved to Wheatland, North Dakota, where he spent the next eight years in charge of a lumber yard. He resigned from that position and moved to Taylor where he purchased a farm one mile east of the village and had made his home there for the past eleven years. He was united in marriage in Norway in 1879 to Miss Anna Rudistuen, who now survives him with three daughters and six sons, all of whom were present at his funeral except Matt, who was unable to come. His children are: Mrs. Martin Torkelson, of this city; John Torkelson, of Winona, Minnesota; Matt of Velfield, North Dakota; Olaf of Gunner, North Dakota; Mrs. Ed Corcoran of Ettrick; Mrs. Rob Carson of Red Wing, Minnesota and Arthur and Oliver at home with their mother. The sympathy of their many friends is extended to the members of the family in their bereavement upon the death of their husband and father. Reprinted from the Black River Falls Banner Journal. THE TAYLOR HERALD - DECEMBER 27, 1929
EDWARD QUAMMEN (DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Edward L. Quammen, proprietor of Elm Grove Farm of 123 acres in section 14, Ettrick Township, was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, February 23, 1869, son of Lars and Anna (Leland) Quammen. He was the second born of his parents� children and was a child of six years when he came with the family to Trempealeau County in 1875. He was educated in the district school and early gained a knowledge of agriculture, helping his father as soon as he became old enough. When 18 years of age he began working in the north woods during the winter, continuing work on the home farm in the summer. In 1901, on his father�s retirement, he bought the homestead, which consists of 123 acres of valuable land, and which he is operating as a general stock farm, making a specialty of Shorthorn cattle, of which he has about 40 head. He is also a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery, the Farmers� Exchange at Blair, the Ettrick Telephone Company, the Bank of Ettrick, the Ettrick Lumber Company and the Ettrick & Northern Railroad Company. June 12, 1901, Mr. Quammen was united in marriage with Emma Rogne, who was born in Jackson County, Wisconsin, daughter of Ole and Eli (Grae) Rogne, both natives of Voss, Norway, who came to Trempealeau County before the Quammens located in Shake Hollow, Jackson County. Mr. Rogne, who was a farmer in Franklin Township, has been dead a number of years, but his wife is still living and resides on the old homestead. Mr. and Mrs. Quammen are the parents of three children: Lloyd Rogne, Alice Evelyn and Clifford Ernest, all of whom are attending school. The family are members of the Lutheran Synod Church. In politics Mr. Quammen is a Republican, but has not been active in local affairs. As a stock farmer he is doing a prosperous business and is regarded as one of the substantial men of his township. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
LARS QUAMMEN (HARDANGER, NORWAY) (2)
Lars Quammen, a well known and respected citizen of Ettrick Township, was born in Hardanger, Norway, April 25, 1841, and came to America when a lad of 17 years, settling in Dane County, Wisconsin. After working a while for others he became landowner and farmer, and was there married to Anna Leland, who was born in Voss, Norway, December 13, 1844. In 1875 they came to Trempealeau County, locating on the farm now owned by Edward L. Quammen, where the father and mother are still living, though he has been retired since 1901. During his years of activity he was a prominent citizen of the township and served at various times in local office. On July 1, 1916, Mr. and Mrs. Lars Quammen celebrated their golden wedding. They have been the parents of seven children: James, now deceased; Edward L., the present proprietor of the old homestead; Andrew and Louis, residing in Montana; Caroline, now Mrs. Henry Legreid of Ettrick Township; Albert, who is manager of the Farmers� Exchange at Blair and Sena, who is a visiting nurse in Chicago having formerly been nurse at the Cook County Hospital there. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
OLOF RINDAHL (GALE TOWNSHIP, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY)
Though most of the original pioneers of Trempealeau County have passed away, their work in the development of the county is being carried under more favorable conditions and with still more prosperous results by the sons and grandsons they have left behind them. One of the prominent members of the second generation in Gale Township is Olof Rindahl, a farmer in section 22 east, who was born in a log house erected by his father in this township, December 8, 1863. The father was Ttto Rindahl, born in Lillehammer, Norway in 1818 and who came to the United States in the fifth decade of the last century, locating first in Lewis Valley, LaCrosse County, Wisconsin. His wife, born April 28, 1828, was a native of the same district in Norway. After farming a few years in LaCrosse County, Otto Rindahl removed to Gale Township, buying the farm on which one of his sons, Mat O. Rindahl, now lives. On this he built a log house and began the work of improvement, continued by him for many years, and that original farm was his home until his death, which occurred in 1902. Though his experiences in early days were hard like all the pioneers, he in time prospered and was able at a later period to donate land for the site of the Lutheran church at Hardie�s Creek and he also assisted in building the church. To official position in his township or county, he never aspired, devoting his time and energies to the care of his homestead and to providing for his family. His wife, whose maiden name was Oleia, died on June 13, 1909. They had seven children, of whom Olof was the fifth born. Olof Rindahl acquired the elements in the Glasgow schoolhouse, where many other now prosperous farmers in this township got their education. He was obliged to begin industrial life at an early age, however, for when only 15 years old he began work in the woods, being attached to a logging camp and was thus employed for three winters, working on the farm in the summer. At a subsequent period, when old enough to work for himself, he rented a farm which he operated for three years, at the end of that time buying his present farm on which he has since resided. It contains 160 acres of valuable land, and the buildings, erected by himself, are neat in appearance and of substantial construction, being also equipped with modern conveniences. Mr. Rindahl is successfully engaged in general farming and is also a stockholder in the Farmers� Exchange at Galesville, the Ettrick Telephone Company, and the Farmers� Equity. He was married in October 1892 to Mattie Huckstadt, who was born on an adjoining farm, daughter of Andrew C. and Helen (Toppan) Huckstadt. Her parents, who were natives of Norway, came at an early date to this region, resided on Black River for a while and then moved to the farm above mentioned on which both subsequently died, the father in 1894, and the mother some time previously. Their daughter, Mattie, who was the eldest of seven children was educated in the schools of Gale Township. Mr. and Mrs. Rindahl have five children: Alfred, Herman, Oscar, Melva Octavia, Edwin and Julia, all whom reside at home. Mr. Rindahl like his father before him, is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he is a Republican but is not active in public affairs, though always taking an interest in whatever concerns the good the community in which he lives. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
OLE E. RAMSEY (VAAGAA, GUDBRANDSDALEN, NORWAY)
Ole E. Ramsey was born in Vaagaa, Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, January 1, 1854, a son of Sargent Erick P. Ramsy and wife Barbara Severson. When Ole was four years old his father died and he and his mother moved to Hoff, Solor, where Ole grew to manhood. May 11, 1877 he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Olson of Aasnes, Solor. In 1883 they emigrated to Wisconsin and arrived in South Beaver Creek in June. They later bought a farm in Mill Creek which has been his home ever since. Their union was blessed with twelve children, of whom four preceded him in death. Those to mourn his loss are Bernard, Mrs. L.P.Olson, Mrs. Olaf Erickson, Mrs. Helmer Hendrickson and Mrs. Albert Arneson all of Melrose; Mrs. Oscar Horn of Ettrick; Mrs. J.A. Winger of Minneapolis; and Mrs. Martin J. Johnson of Milwaukee; also twenty-five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, two half-brothers, Sever Erickson of Melrose, Bernard Erickson of Hoff, Norway and two half sisters, Mrs. Fred Johnson of Atwood and Mrs. Even Anderson of Melrose. His wife passed away 24 years ago. About four years ago he was taken ill and three years ago last May he submitted to an operation for bladder trouble, from which he never fully recovered but gradually failed in health, until death relieved him of his suffering Saturday, June 13, 1931 at the age of 77 years, 5 months and 13 days. Funeral services were held at the home at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 15, Rev. Johan Olson, officiating. Pallbearers were six grandsons, namely: Oscar and Arthur Ramsey, Melvin and Edgar Olson and Lloyd and Norman Lindberg. Flower girls were four granddaughters, Della and Birdine Horn, LaVanche Hendrickson, Berdelle Winger and one great-granddaughter, Ardelle Erickson. Interment was at South Beaver Creek cemetery, and the service was largely attended. There were many floral offerings and in memoriam of deceased the Women Mission Federation of South Beaver Creek and friends gave $11.50 to Skaalen Home of Aged. Ole Ramsey was an honest and upright citizen and a good neighbor. He was a member of the South Beaver Creek Lutheran Church for 45 years. SOURCE - FAMILY RECORDS (Researching this family is Verda Olson Stewart at [email protected])
EDWARD E. QUARNE (HONEFOS, NORWAY) (2)
Edward E. Quarne, proprietor of the B.J. Smalberg homestead of 193 acres in sections 31 and 32, Preston Township, belongs to that hardy Norwegian race that has done so much to develop the agricultural resources of Trempealeau County. He was born in Honefos, Norway, June 10, 1847, his father being Elling J. Quarne, a shoemaker, who was born in Norway in 1807 and died in 1892 and his mother, in maidenhood Karen Olena Aas, who was born in Norway in 1810 and died in 1880. Edward E. Quarne was reared in his native land and resided there until he had attained his majority. Realizing, however, that his chances for advancement were small if he remained at home, his thought turned to the United States, wither he knew many of his countrymen had already gone and where opportunities were abundant for men of courage and perseverance. His decision made, he sailed for America in 1869, and after landing proceeded to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where for three years he worked at the carpenter's trade. At the end of that time he resolved to try farming as the best means of gaining an independent livelihood and ultimate prosperity, and so came to the farm on which he now resides, which was then owned by his father-in-law, he having recently married. Here he devoted himself to agriculture for two years and then saw all his labors come to naught by a pest of chinch burgs, which totally destroyed his crops. Not knowing how long these unwelcome visitors might conclude to stay with him, he resolved to try a new location and so removed to Grant County Minnesota, where he bought a farm and operated it until 1891, a period of about 13 years. He then returned to Trempealeau County and bought his original farm here, on which he has since resided, carrying on general farming. Mr. Quarne raises Shorthorn cattle, having about 35 head, graded, of which he milks ten, and also keeps and raises black Minorca chickens. In 19?? he built a good residence - a two-story frame structure with basement and containing eight rooms. His frame barn, 28 by 64 by 16, was erected by him in 1898. As one of the prominent and substantial men of his township, Mr. Quarne has been called on at times to take part in local government affairs, and thus served one year as supervisor and six years on the school board. He also rendered public service while in Grant County, being a member of his township board there for nine years. Aside from his immediate farming interests, he is a stockholder in the Home Bank of Blair and in Preston Creamery at Blair. February 22, 1873 he was united in marriage with Anna B. Johnson of Eau Claire, who was born in Solar, Norway, June 11, 1853. Her parents were B.J. Smalberg and Anna Maria Ingebretsen, who came to America in 1866, Mr. Smalberg homesteading the farm on which his daughter and son-in-law live, and which was their home until they died, Mr. Smalberg in 1911 at the age of 88 years, and his wife in 1908 at the age of 83. Mr. and Mrs. Quarne have had seven children, of whom the following is a brief record: Caroline Amelia is the wife of Eric Anderson, a farmer of Ettrick Township, this county, and has four children: Ernest Arthur, Alma Orilla, Lloyd Wilfred and Norman Rudolph. Marie Elise married Alfred Andreson and has two children: Evelyn Veda and Lillian Hazel. They reside on the Quarne farm. Peter Julius, who married Anna Jones, is engaged in farming near his parents' homestead. He and his wife have two children: LeRoy Wilfred and Beulah Lavina. Edwin Bernhard, now a farmer in Jackson County, married Effie Skorstad and has four children: Marle Irene Idanna, Lorin Donald, Arnold DeVere and Corine Ardell. The other three children of Mr. and Mrs. Quarne died in infancy. Religious, the family are affiliated with the Norwegian Lutheran Church. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
ANDREW J. RINGLIEN (SUNDRELAND, NORWAY) (2)
Andrew J. Ringlien, proprietor of the Ringlien Farm of 240 acres in sections 5 and 6, Pigeon Township, was born in Sundreland, Norway, April 29, 1857, son of John and Mary (Nilson) Ringlien. He resided in his native land until about 26 years old, and then, in 1883, came to the United States in search of better opportunities for self-advancement than he had there. Locating in Pigeon Township, this county, he obtained employment and also attended school in order chiefly to acquire a knowledge of the English language, in which he made good progress. For three years he worked for P. Ekern, carefully saving his earnings, or as much of them as possible, with the view of achieving industrial independence. This purpose he accomplished in 1890 when he bought his present farm and began working for himself. Since that time he has made considerable progress and is now one of the prosperous citizens of his township, a fact conspicuously manifested by the fine brick house he erected in 1914, a two-story building with basement, containing ten rooms and installed with furnace heat and other conveniences. His barn, 30 by 60 by 18 feet, with basement and concrete floors, is also a good and substantial structure, and the other buildings on the farm are well kept and of neat appearance. Mr. Ringlien keeps graded Durham cattle, having a herd of 40 head, of which he milks 20. He is also a stockholder in the elevator and creamery at Whitehall. His religious affiliations are with the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America, of which he has been trustee and auditor for ten years. For the past six years he has been a member of the Norwegian school board. Mr. Ringlien was united in marriage, April 4, 1890, with Helen Knutson, daughter of Olaus and Nicolena (Netten) Knutson. She died in September 1909, leaving eight children: John Olger, Nettie Melvina, Arthur Maurice, Arnold Norman, Axel William, Herman Calbjorn, Menick Cornelius and Erling Conrad, who reside at home with their father. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
PAUDOR K. RISBERG (VAALER, NORWAY) (2)
Paudor K. Risberg, county clerk, educator and prominent citizen, was born north of Christiania, Norway, at Risberget, parish of Vaaler, February 15, 1866, son of Knut and Martha (Anderson) Risberg, both of whom died in Norway in 1893. Paudor K. Risberg was reared in his native parish and in 1883, as a youth of seventeen, set out by himself to join his brother Carl and his sister Agnetha (now Mrs. John Matson) in Chimney Rock Township, this county. Upon arriving here the courageous and ambitious boy secured employment where he could work for his board while he attended school. His first winter in this country he attended the Chimney Rock district school. Later he alternated work with attending school, to get money to pay his board and tuition. In the winter of 1884-85 he attended the graded schools of Eau Claire. After a summer's work on the Canadian Pacific Railroad in British Columbia, he took a two years' teachers' course at the Wittenberg, Wisconsin normal school. In 1892, after teaching school one year, he took a special teachers' course in the Northern Indiana University at Valparaiso. After preparing himself for the profession of teaching he was engaged as principal of the Chimney Rock graded school for nine years. In 1903 Mr. Risberg purchased a farm of 90 acres in section 14, Chimney Rock Township. There he farmed until January 1, 1909, when he assumed the duties of his present position, to which he had been elected the previous fall. He has since then been successively re-elected. In addition to this service, Mr. Risberg has been chairman of Chimney Rock town four years, clerk five years and treasurer one year. For four years he has been clerk of the school board in Whitehall. The United Norwegian Lutheran Church has found in him a valued member. Since 1890 he has been superintendent of the Sunday school, and in the same time he has been leader of the church choir. He has also served on various committees and boards. His financial holdings include stock in the Peoples State Bank, of which he was a director for a time. Mr. Risberg was married September 2, 1893 to Agnethe Larson, born in Chimney Rock Town, February 15, 1871. His wife is a daughter of Eric and Olivia (Omestad) Larson, who came to this country in 1866. Mr. and Mrs. Risberg have eight children: Arthur, Walter, Alice, Clifford, Ethel, Harvey, Louise and Pearl. Walter, who is his father's deputy, is married to Dora L. Brandon of Whitehall, and Arthur, who is a restaurant keeper in Whitehall, is married to Stella Kloety of Arcadia. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
SIVERT REKSTAD (TRONDJEM, NORWAY)
Sivert Rekstad. Among the leading farmers and businessmen of Unity Township is the subject of this sketch, who was born near Trondjem, Norway, July 8, 1852, son of John E. and Kari Rekstad. Both parents died in Norway, the former, who was a farmer, in 1863 and the mother in 1893. Sivert Rekstad came to America in June 1873, locating first in Ishpeming, Michigan, where he worked as a carpenter for one year. Then going to Eau Claire, he found employment in the sawmill and pineries, spending one year in these closely related occupations. Subsequently until 1883 he worked as a carpenter and on farms in Unity Township and at the end of that time purchased the farm he now owns in section 19, Unity Township, and which contains 172 acres and is known as Pine Grove Farm. This property is highly improved, the buildings, which are fine in appearance and substantially constructed, consisting of the following: A barn, 32 by 60 by 18 feet; horse bar, 20 by 42 by 16, with an addition of 16 by 16 feet; sheep barn, 24 by 32, with an ell 12 by 22 feet; granary, 20 by 32 feet, and a good frame residence of one and a half stories. Besides carrying on this farm Mr. Redkstad has been actively interested for a number of years in other important business enterprises. For 14 years he was manager of the N.C. Foster Lumber Company, of Strum, and then for two years he held the same position for their successors, the Wilson-Weber Lumber Company, and during the two following years was manager for the North Star Lumber Company, successors to the Wilson-Weber Lumber Company. In 1908 he assisted in organizing the First State Bank of Strum, of which he has since been a director. He was its vice-president for two years and since January 1, 1915, has held the office of president. January 1, 1911, he became treasurer of the Unity Cooperative Creamery and still holds that position. He was treasurer of the Town of Unity for five years, town clerk two years and treasurer of the school district 33 years, has been identified with the Mutual Insurance Company of Ettrick for 35 years. Mr. Redstad was married June 23, 1882, to Annie Knutson, who was born in Brown County, Kansas, August 17, 1859. He and his wife have been the parents of six children: Christophine, who is residing at home; Mary, residing at home and a teacher in the parochial school; Martha, a nurse in the Lutheran Hospital at Eau Claire; Joseph, who died when 3 � years of age Clara, a music teacher living at home; and Katrine, who is a student at St. Olaf's College at Northfield, Minnesota. Mr. Rekstad and his family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he has been secretary since 1880. Both as a farmer and businessman, he has made an excellent record and is highly respected throughout Unity and neighboring townships. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
GILBERT S. RICE (TREMPEALEAU COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Gilbert S. Rice, manager of the Auto Sales Co. of Whitehall, has developed that institution into one of the most important industries in the village. Efficient in his chosen line, affable of manner, and keenly interested in public affairs, he has taken his place as one of the public spirited citizens of the county, and his influence has ever been used in behalf of progress and betterment. He is a native of this county, born on Trempealeau Prairie, January 11, 1872. His father, Tracy E. Rice, was born in New York State, came to Trempealeau County in the early days, and here married Ellen G. Hanson; he died many years ago, and his widow, who married Christian Everson, now lives in Lincoln Township. The subject of this sketch was educated in the schools of Whitehall, and devoted his early life to farm pursuits. Since boyhood, however, he has been interested in machinery, and in 1895 the opportunity came to enter his chosen line by embarking in the implement business at Whitehall. With the development of the automobile industry, he saw a still wider opportunity, and late in 1910 organized the Auto Sales Co. For a time he was president and manager, but as the business grew, he retired from the presidency to devote all his time to the active management. Busy as he has been with his life work, he has found time for public service, and has given general satisfaction at different times as village president, village clerk and village treasurer. His business holding include stock in the Farmers and Merchants Bank if Independence. Mr. Rice was married Mary 30, 1895 to Ida O. Wold, born in this county, a daughter of Ole O. and Kari (Bang) Wold, both now deceased. Their happy home has been blessed with six children: Tracy O., born May 18, 1896; Kathryn I, born April 14, 1898; Elsie V., born July 10. 1900; Evelyn M., born January 13, 1904; Donald O., born April 14, 1906; and Marion, born March 12, 1914. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
JOHN RAICHLE (WINONA, MINNESOTA)
John Raichle, a well-known resident of Ettrick, Wisconsin, where he is engaged in business as a general contractor and bridge builder, and is also a land-owner, was born in Winona, Minnesota, October 18, 1868, son of William and Emma (Medsker) Raichle. His early education was acquired in the public school of Frenchville, Wisconsin and he resided at home until he was 18 years of age. He then went to South Dakota, where he worked out for others, and in the winters was engaged in cutting timber in the woods. When about 22 years old, having returned to Trempealeau County, he rented land in Ettrick Township and engaged in farming, continuing to rent for four years. At the end of that time he purchased the John Cance farm, which he operated until the winter of 1908-09. He then rented it out and moved into the village of Ettrick, in the meanwhile having begun the construction of his present residence, which was completed in 1913, after which he took up his residence in it. He has sold 160 acres of the land he formerly owned, but still has 101 acres left, which he rents out. For some time past Mr. Raichle has been engaged in contracting in masonry and construction, including bridge building, and at present has contracts for the Ettrick & Northern Railroad, now building. He is a stockholder in the Bank of Ettrick and in the Ettrick Creamery Company, the Ettrick Hall Company and in a lumber company, organized January 18, 1917. Mr. Raichle was married May 28, 1895 to Nettie Benrud, who was born at Frenchville, this county, daughter of Marcus and Carrie (Hegge) Benrud, who were born in Biri, Norway, the father January 17, 1846, and the mother December 13, 1845. The parents of Mrs. Raichle were married at LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Marcus Benrud came to the United States when a lad of 18 years, locating at French Creek, this county, where he made his home with Mr. Gilbertson, working out for two years. He then went back to Norway, and when he returned to this country he brought with him his young wife. Then settling in LaCrosse, he engaged there in the liquor business, but continued in it but a short time, coming to Frenchville, not long after and starting a hotel here, which he conducted for about six or seven years. In the meanwhile he acquired some land and when he gave up the hotel business he engaged in farming and in this latter occupation he continued less than a year, dying May 6, 1911. For a number of years Mr. Benrud held the office of assessor in Gale Township. He and his wife had six children, of whom their daughter Nettie (Mrs. John Raichle) was the second-born. Mr. and Mrs. Raichle are the parents of four children: Elmer Oscar, Albert William, Robert Theodore and Antoinette, all residing at home. Mr. Raichle belongs to the orders of Royal Neighbors and Beavers at Ettrick. For a number of years he has served on the township board and as president of the Ettrick Creamery Company. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
GEORGE REITZEL (NORWAY)
George Reitzel, one of the early settlers of Preston Township, was born in Norway, and there grew to manhood. In 1862 he married Isabella Larson, the widow of Fredrick Nelson. Four years later they brought their family to America, and took up their residence in Ettrick Township, this county. After residing there about a year they moved to Preston Township, and homesteaded a farm where they lived two years, from there going to Buffalo County, where they took land on which they remained for about the same length of time. They next spent a year in Ettrick and after that removed to Minnesota. In 1876 they came to Whitehall, where Mr. Reitzel died in 1879. In 1884 Mrs. Reitzel married Ole Larson. Since his death on March 7, 1908, she has lived in Whitehall. Mr. and Mrs. Reitzel had six children: Rosa, Anton F., George and Emil (twins), Frank and Rosa. The two oldest were born in Norway, and with Nels L. and Elisa Fredrickson were brought to this country by their parents. SOURCE � HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917
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