Orlyn Aslesen

Orlyn May Aslesen was born May 30, 1924 in Ortley, South Dakota the daughter of Russell and Pearl Maxwell. Orlyn was baptized and on May 29, 1938 confirmed into the Christian faith in Florence, South Dakota. Her strong belief in God remained at the center of her life throughout. Orlyn grew up in the Ortley area and attended school in Florence graduating with her class in 1943.On July 28, 1945, Orlyn was united in marriage to Alton Aslesen in Wallace, South Dakota. Their union was blessed with four boys. Along with their young family, Orlyn and Alton began farming in rural Waubay, South Dakota. In 1965 they moved to Florence and Orlyn worked as a nursing assistant at St. Ann's Hospital in Watertown.In 1968, after nearly twenty years in farming, the family moved to Minnesota. Orlyn continued her work in the medical profession as a Licensed Practical Nurse at the Chippewa County-Montevideo Hospital. After her retirement, she continued to care for others by working in the Home Health Department. During her retirement years she was active with the Young at Heart program at Community Bible Church, and the Old Hats Club. Orlyn was a volunteer activities director at Brookside Manor and also volunteered at the Community Senior Center in Montevideo. She enjoyed flower gardening, arts and crafts, making afghans, going fishing and making lefse. Music played an important role in her life. She enjoyed playing the organ at Brookside Manor as well as calling Bingo whenever she could.Orlyn is survived by her sons: Bruce (Patty) Aslesen of Vermillion, Minnesota; Paul (Joan) Aslesen of Canton, South Dakota; Edward (Jackey) Aslesen of Montevideo, Minnesota; and Mark (Lori) of Willmar, Minnesota. 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents: Russell and Pearl; her beloved husband Alton Aslesen in 1992; sister: Margie Arnesen; and a brother: Dolan Maxwell.