Vernon Brekke

Vernon J. Brekke, 89, of Fargo, ND, died peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2009, surrounded by family at MeritCare, Fargo. Vernon was born July 19, 1919, in Pomme De Terre Township, Minnesota, to John and Sophia (Austin) Brekke. Being a preemie weighing only one pound, he was placed in a shoebox and kept in the oven to stay warm. He grew up and attended school there. Vernon served in the U.S. Merchant Marines until 1945, serving in the South Pacific during WWII. On September 21, 1946, he married Betty Olson in Elbow Lake, Minnesota. Vernon worked for Tip Top Bakery and then for Holsum Bakery making doughnuts. He retired in 1979. He enjoyed spending time at the cabin on Prairie Lake, going fishing and all the fun times with family. He also loved watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, playing many games of solitaire and having Grandpa Doggy Daycare for Cody and Sam. Vernon is survived by his daughters, Sheryl Brekke; and Colleen (Glen) Harris, all of Fargo, ND; his sister, Iona Brekke, Fergus Falls, MN; three grandchildren, Alicia Marcella and Brent Harris, both of Fargo, ND; and Lance Harris, Minneapolis, MN: and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty; son, Kevin, who died at birth; sister, Elda Wimer; three brothers, Donny, Sal and Irving; and grandson, Dustin Harris. Funeral Service: Wednesday, March 25, 2009, at 3:00 PM, at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, Fargo, ND. Visitation: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 from 5-7 PM, at Hanson-Runsvold and one hour prior to the service. Burial: Sunset Memorial Gardens, Fargo, ND.