Norris A. Pederson, age 81, of Bejou, MN, died Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at Mahnomen Health Care Center Nursing Home in Mahnomen, MN.
Norris Alden Pederson, son of Nils and Teckla (Erlandson) Pederson, was born on May 11, 1930 at home in Bear Park Township, rural Bejou. He grew up on the family farm and attended Agriculture School in Crookston, MN. In 1953, Norris was drafted into the United States Army where he served during the Korean Conflict. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to the family farm near Bejou. Norris was united in marriage to Mary Lou Gullekson and they were blessed with four children: Cathy, Nancy, DeWayne, and Debbie. Norris farmed with his brother, Edmond, for his entire career. He was a farmer through and through and often drove his Model A in area parades. He was a devoted member of Faaberg Lutheran Church and often taught Sunday school there. Norris was active with both the Gary American Legion Post #505 and the Farmers Union organizations. He loved politics and was an avid supporter of the Democratic Party. He often traveled around the United States to see family and enjoyed visiting with friends. He also enjoyed watching sports when he was able. In 2001, Norris moved into the Mahnomen Health Center where he has made his home.
Norris is survived by one son, DuWayne of Washington; three daughters: Cathy (Mike) Walker of Colorado, Nancy (Daniel) Hanneberger of California, and Debbie Bade, of Nevada; one brother, Palmer (Marion) Pederson of Mahnomen, MN; a sister-in-law, Marge Pederson of Bejou; a brother-in-law, Alton Peterson of Florida; six grandchildren: Anthony (Carla), William, Blossom (Falon), Daniel Jr. (Michelle), Nikki (Ben), and Logan; nine great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Norris is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Alyce; a brother, Edmond.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at Faaberg Lutheran Church in Rindal, MN. A prayer service will held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at Anderson-Mattson Funeral Home in Mahnomen, MN.
Inurnment will be at Faaberg Lutheran Cemetery in Rindal, MN.