In Loving Memory of Allan Howard Morken 1932-2023
It is with heavy hearts and fond remembrance that we announce the peaceful passing of Allan Morken, a dedicated farmer, loving husband and strong father. Allan departed this world in his home on Decembeer 19 at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of his family with his devoted wife of 71 years.
Born June 5, 1932, to Tilford and Hilda (Sundet) Morken. He was joined by sister Audrey (Vatland) six years later. Allan was raised with a strong work ethic and a deep sense of commitment to family and faith. On June 1, 1952, he married his childhood sweetheart, Lois Bergsrud, beginning a lifelong journey of love and partnership. He fondly remembered the day he rode Lois home on his bicycle handlebars at age 12 from religious training. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the enduring bonds of a love that lasted over seven decades.
Allan’s life was a testament to the values he held dear: hard work, family and faith. He dedicated himself to the land, working tirelessly as a full-time farmer and cattleman. The time he spent at local auctions was time well spent, continuing into retirement where he enjoyed watching auctions online. His hands bore the calluses of a life spent cultivating the earth and believed in the value of a hard day’s work. Yet, he enjoyed taking his beautiful bride dancing, raising quarter horses and the occasional happy hour with family and friends.
In service to his country, Allan spent two years in the Army, one of which was served on the Korean Peninsula. His time in the military further instilled in him a sense of duty and responsibility, traits that he carried with him throughout his life. He often spoke of one his happiest memories, when his young bride wearing red shoes met him at the train station when he returned home from Korea.
In addition to serving his country, he also served his community. He was active in the church, led the local 4-H, served on multiple farm boards and the local school board. Allan was the last surviving member of the Rawhide Ropers, supporting the local arena north of the church.
Allan’s greatest source of pride and joy, however, was his family. He and Lois created a loving home where their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and now a great-great-grandchild, were raised with love, compassion and respect. His legacy lives on not only in the crops he sowed but in the lessons of integrity and perseverance he shared. Occasionally shared whether requested or not.
A man of faith, Allan’s spiritual journey was marked by a quiet strength and a deep connection to his beliefs. As a member of Faith Lutheran Church, he forged lasting friendships and drew strength from his faith community. The family had a standing reservation in the corner pew, supporting Lois who played the organ for 50 years.
Allan Morken leaves behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and the enduring power of love. His memory will be cherished by his beloved wife Lois, his children Don (Jane), Sharon (Arden), Bob (Deb), Dave (Lori) and Jim (Kathy); grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate a life well-lived, a life dedicated to the values that truly matter. May he rest in eternal peace.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 23, at 11 a.m.. at Faith Lutheran Church in Black Hammer.
Burial will be in the church cemetery. Pastor Leonard Liptack will officiate. Military rites provided by American Legion Post# 249 of Spring Grove. Friends may call on Friday at the church from 4-7 p.m.
Roble Funeral Home of Spring Grove, is assisting the family with arrangements.
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