Ernest Dalen

On Wednesday, July 18th, 1923, Ernest Julian Dalen was born on the family farm in Kragero Township of Chippewa County in rural Milan to Julia (Andrews) and Julian Dalen. At the altars of Kviteseid Church in Milan, Ernie was baptized as an infant and confirmed his Lutheran faith on May 8, 1938. He began his formal education in rural country school and graduated with the Milan High School Class of 1940. On June 3, 1946, Ernie enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country, spending one year in Japan on Occupation Duty before his honorable discharge in October 1947. Upon his return home, he returned to his love of farming. On November 30th, 1952, he and Barbara Ann Johnson were married at Kviteseid Lutheran Church. Their union was blessed with three children. Ernie and Barb raised their family and worked the land on the farm where Ernie was born. Ernie took great pride in his family; his love of farming; and his military service. In his leisure time, Ernie liked to golf, bowl and fish. He served on church board, Milan Elevator board, Regional Development and helped with the building of the Milan Legion. On Thursday evening, July 5th, 2012, just twelve days shy of his 89th birthday, Ernie was called from his earthly home while a resident of the Appleton Nursing Home. Cherishing the memories they shared with him is Barb, his wife of nearly 60 years; their children: Paulette and Bill Haff of Montevideo, Keith and Julie Dalen of Milan and Beth Dalen of Milan; his grandchildren: Kelly and Eric Farrand of Odgensburg, New York, Kyle and Amanda Dalen of Maynard; his great grandchildren: Kara and Emily Farrand, and Ryan and Layna Dalen; his sister Carol Nelson of Morris, sisters-in-law Olive Dalen of Appleton, Yvonne and Dean Thompson of Montevideo, and Rosella Douglas of White Bear Lake as well as many dear nieces and nephews.He was preceded by his parents Julian and Julia Dalen, his brother Leland Dalen, Barb's parents Roy & Ella Johnson; his brothers-in-law Lyle Johnson, Jim Douglas, John Boon and Max Nelson; his sister-in-law Ione Lanes and her husband Bob.