Martin Prestegord, age 87, of Twin Valley, MN, died Sunday, February 23, 2014 at Twin Valley Living Center.
Martin Olaf Prestegord was born January 16, 1927, the son of Severt and Borgild (Bottolf) Prestegord in the Fossum area. He grew up in the Twin Valley area and attended both Plentywood and Webster country schools. On July 16, 1947 Martin was united in marriage to Irma Allrich at the Wild Rice Lutheran Parsonage. The couple made their home all of their married life in Twin Valley. Together they raised six children: Phillis, Virgil, David, LeAnn, Heidi and Stacey. Over the years, Martin was employed in many areas of service: he helped build bridges as well as the Mahnomen Hospital, worked for several area farmers and Martin painted houses. The job from which Martin retired, was being employed for many years as custodian at Zion Lutheran Church. Irma passed away on October 6, 2010. Martin continued to live in his home until recently entering the Twin Valley Living Center due to declining health.
He was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church and was known to be the first one there each Sunday. Martin's love of music was evident in his ability to play violin and banjo and sing hymns. He and Irma brought years of enjoyment to the Twin Valley Living Center residents by sharing their musical talents with them.
Martin is survived by his children: Phillis (Lynn) Weium of Moorhead, MN, Virgil Prestegord, David (Phyllis) Prestegord, LeAnn Kraft, Heide Boe and Stacey (Verona) Prestegord all of Twin Valley; 14 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife; sisters: Hilda Grove, Selma Hassel and Lenora Locken; brothers: Lars, Alfred and Arnold; six brothers-in-law and six sisters-in-law.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church in Twin Valley. Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Officiating was Pastor Elton Jorde with Danette Gwin serving as organist and Bobby Brevik serving as vocalist. Pallbearers were Martins grandsons and honorary pallbearers were his granddaughters and great grandchildren.
Interment was in Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Twin Valley.