Walter Norman Bjorhus (Sleepy)

Buffalo, ND

1940, 762, Custer, F-12,

Walter Norman Bjorhus was born on August 8, 1922, in Driscoll, North Dakota to Arthur and Belle (Livingstone) Bjorhus.

He attended country school in his early years and as he was older attended school in Valley City, ND. Following his schooling, Walt worked for the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) for 2 years before joining the United States Navy in 1940 during WWII. After 3 and a half years of service Walt was honorably discharged and returned home to join the work force as a heavy equipment operator.

On April 16th, 1949, Walt was united in marriage to Irene Hanson at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Moorhead, MN. The couple was blessed with one son: Alan.

Over the years, Walt's job took him to various locations and his family would travel with him in their little trailer home but always came back to Moorhead when the job was done. They eventually made their home in Aurora, MN where they remained for over 50 years when Walt worked on the Iron Range.

Also, during this time Walt and his brother, Russel, purchased their father's farm near Ulen, MN where they farmed on weekends for 5 years. After retirement, the couple settled in Sauk Centre, MN where they could be closer to their extended families. They became active members at First Lutheran Church and were part of the Vikingland RV Club.

They traveled throughout the US with their club and enjoyed traveling to various areas where the Bjorhus' siblings would gather for reunions. Walt was also a long-standing member of the Masonic Lodge and volunteered at various events in his community throughout the years. In 2018, the couple moved into Grand Arbor in Alexandria, MN where Walt resided until his passing.

Walt passed away on Sunday, July 4th, 2021, at his home at the age of 98.

He is survived by his wife: Irene; son: Alan both of Alexandria; brother: Russel (Marjorie) Bjorhus; 2 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Walt is preceded in death by his parents: Arthur and Belle; 2 brothers: Art Jr. and Don; 5 sisters: Bernice, Helen, Betty, Ruth, Jean, and 1 infant sister.

A Memorial Service was held in the Community Room at Grand Arbor in Alexandria, Minnesota.

Inurnment will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Sauk Centre, Minnesota.

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