Thief River Falls – David Elsworth Morken of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 14, 2022 at the age of 90.
David was born on July 7, 1932 in Pekin, North Dakota to Carl and Anna (Tangen) Morken. He was baptized into Christ on August 7, 1932 at the Pekin Evangelical Lutheran Church. On June 7, 1973 David was united in marriage to Mary Schenkey.
When David was five years old, his family moved to Grand Forks, while still maintaining a strong attachment to Pekin over the years. His mother recognized his aptitude for music when he was young, and he began piano lessons at the age of nine. David graduated from Central High School in 1950.
While attending the University of North Dakota, he also joined the Army Reserve Unit and was called into active duty. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955, spending most of his term in Frankfurt, Germany as organist at the 4th Division headquarters chapel. Following his military service, he resumed his studies at UND and graduated with a major in music in 1957. He received a Master’s degree in music from Indiana University in 1959.
David began his teaching career in vocal music in Fargo and then Grafton, ND, before moving to Thief River Falls in 1966. He taught vocal music at Lincoln High School for 20 years and directed many memorable high school musicals. Early in his career, he attended Broadway musicals in New York City for inspiration and to help hone his skills as a director. In 1986, he shifted his teaching to elementary music, where he immersed himself in what felt like a new career. He retired in 1997.
He was a vocal soloist in high school and college and continued to perform as a soloist over the years. He also directed various church choirs and served as church organist for several congregations. David considered Lutheran theology his avocation. Attending theological conferences, ongoing dialogues via conference calls with theologians/friends, and Biblical studies were a vital part of his Christian life.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary; daughter, Ingrid Morken, Oakland, CA; daughter, Lydia Morken (Peter Krinke), Twin Cities; son, Alex Morken (Abby DenUyl), Portland, OR; grandson, Cameron Krinke; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Anna Morken; brother, Ralph Morken; brother, Harding Morken; sister, Margaret Ellertson; and brother, Carl Morken.
A funeral service for David will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Pastor Mark Helgeland officiating.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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