Orville E. Tronnes, 88, Shelly, MN, died Thursday, May 12, 2016, at the Halstad Living Center, Halstad, MN.

Orville was born December 7, 1927, to Oscar and Ella (Iverson) Tronnes. He grew up on a farm northwest of Shelly on land that had been homesteaded by his grandfather. He attended MN School District #17.

In addition to farming he worked for Benny Aarestad for 2 years beginning in 1968; he also worked for Jiffy Fry in Crookston for 8 years; and for American Crystal Sugar for 10 years. In 1979 Orville began assisting Ken Berry painting churches and farmsteads in the region.

The Tronnes homestead was destroyed by a flood in 1997. Orville moved to Shelly where he resided until December 21, 2015 when he was admitted to the Halstad Living Center.

Orville loved his pickup and took many leisurely drives to inspect crops. Visitors were welcomed into his tidy little home. He displayed many pictures and enjoyed telling stories about the photos of his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Delores, (age 6); and a son, Larry Trontvedt, who died in an accident at age 28.

Orville is survived by a dear friend, Norma Wold, Goodridge, MN, a grandson, Gene (Darby) Trontvedt, Oklee, MN, a granddaughter Michelle (Craig) Magnell, East Grand Forks, MN, 5 great-grandsons, a great-granddaughter and many cousins and friends.

Pastor Valerian Ahles officiated at Orville's May 20th funeral and grave side service; Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Home of Halstad made arrangements. He was laid to rest in the St. Petri Cemetery, rural Nielsville, MN, near his parents, sister, and family friend Olav Bogen.

Memorial Service: 10:30AM, Friday, May 20, 2016, at Halstad Living Center, Halstad, MN. Visitation one hour before the service.