VIRGIL ELLENSON
November 9, 1936 – February 6, 2010 

     Virgil Ellenson, age 73, a long time Park Rapids, MN resident, peacefully passed away on Saturday, evening, February 6, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Park Rapids.
     Virgil was born on November 9, 1936 to Gust and Rose (Hopke) Ellenson in Bagley, MN. As a young boy, Virgil’s family moved to Park Rapids where he graduated from high school with the Class of 1954. After high school, Virgil ventured to Alaska where he worked construction for a time. When he returned to Park Rapids he worked as a painter for Paul Erb, eventually becoming partners with Paul and taking over the business when Paul retired. On March 21, 1964, Virgil was united in marriage to Polly Bridgeman in Sisseton, South Dakota. This marriage was blessed with four children: Alan, Carla, Lonnie and Brian. For most of his business career, Virgil primarily did drywall contracting. His handiwork is part of many of the homes and businesses in the Park Rapids area. Virgil served his community as a member of the Park Rapids Fire Department for over 20 years. He especially enjoyed the many long friendships that were established with the other fire fighters and the valuable contribution to the community that this involvement brought. He was a member of the Park Rapids Eagles Aerie # 870 and the National Rifle Association. He loved the out of doors; especially when he could be out deer hunting or fishing with his boys. Over the years, Virgil especially enjoyed his Canadian fishing trips with close friend, Greg Nei. Each spring, he looked forward to planting a large vegetable garden which he enjoyed nurturing into fruitful abundance to share with family and friends. He especially loved raising and eating his garden fresh green onions and swiss chard. Virgil took special pride in caring for his home and acreage. He spent a great deal of time mowing his large lawn, trimming trees and anything else to keep his ten acres in order In his spare time, he enjoyed tinkering in his garage working on a variety of projects. Virgil enjoyed the old west and especially enjoyed watching old western movies. Virgil’s life had changed dramatically this past year due to his failing health which was a tough adjustment for such an active and independent man. Above all, Virgil devoted his entire life to his wife, his children, and grandchildren who he loved with all his heart.
     Virgil will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Polly; his children: Alan (Stacy) Ellenson of Guthrie, MN, Carla (Mike) Johnk, Lonnie (Suzann) Ellenson, and Brian (Heather) Ellenson all of Park Rapids, MN; 17 grandchildren: Jasen, Faith, William, Victoria, Ronny, Brittany, Logan, Cassie, Kailee, Sydney, Katie, Zachary, Emily, April, Elizabeth, Joshua, and Luke; two sisters: Kay Ellenson of Longview, WA and Judy (Loren) Buske of Hutchinson, MN; 3 brothers: Dennis (Pat) Ellenson of Bagley, Robert (Elaine) Ellenson and Terry (Leann) Ellenson all of Bemidji as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
     Virgil was preceded in death by his parents; a niece, Tammy Hook and a nephew, Dustin Ellenson.
     Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Park Rapids with the Rev. Roger Olson officiating. The organist will be Virgil’s daughter-in-law, Stacy Ellenson. Casket bearers will be: Chuck Rognstad, Jim Wright, Pat Mikesh, Kevin Lempola, Phil Pike and Virgil Eskola. The honorary casket bearers will be current and former members of the Park Rapids Fire Department. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 PM Friday, February 12, 2010 at the Jones-Pearson Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the services at the church on Saturday.