Helmer Nornes

Helmer B. Nornes, 96, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at the Pioneer Retirement Community in Fergus Falls.  Helmer was born in Scandia Township, rural Beltrami on December 24, 1911, the son of Bernard and Petra (Melbo) Nornes. He attended White Dove School and later graduated from Crookston Ag School. On September 30, 1938 he married Karine Opdahl at the Scandia Lutheran Church. They farmed near Beltrami. In 1943, Helmer became a rural mail carrier, and retired in the mid 70’s. The couple wintered in Mission, Texas and relocated to Fergus Falls in 1980.  He belonged to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he was custodian for several years. He was also a founder of the “Y’s” Folks and the Golden Kiwanis Club and was past president of the Minnesota Rural Mail Carriers.   Helmer enjoyed woodworking, gardening, mowing and taking care of Bethlehem Cemetery for many summers. He had a great sense of humor and loved his family. He was known for his love of music and singing with several different groups through the years and especially with his wife, Karine.  Preceding him in death were his parents, wife, Karine, who died in 1998; 7 sisters, Gunhild, Bergit, Selma, Ruth, Agnes, Louise and Esther; three brothers, Carl, Paul and Dick; and a son-in-law, Richard who died in 2007. Survivors include his children, Connie Jeffers of Ham Lake, Barb (John) Ferry of Rock Springs, WY, Harvey Nornes of Mesquite, NV and Bud (Joyce) Nornes of Fergus Falls; 7 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Visitation:  5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service at the church. Service:   11 a.m. Tuesday at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls Clergy:  Reverend Paul Nelson and Chaplain Harry Olson Burial:   Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery, Fergus Falls Arrangements: Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com