Thief River Falls- Harold Halvorson, 101, of Thief River Falls, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Thief River Care Center in Thief River Falls with his loving family by his side.
Harold Emmons Halvorson was born on July 27, 1924, on the family farm Excel Township near Thief River Falls, Minnesota, to Halvor B. and Emma (Lee) Halvorson. He was the ninth of ten children and the youngest son in the family. Harold was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, where he developed a strong foundation of faith that guided him throughout his life.
He attended Riverside Country School in Excel Township and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls with the Class of 1942. As the youngest son, Harold remained at home to take over the family farm, continuing the legacy of hard work and stewardship passed down through generations. Following the death of his father in 1956, Harold purchased the family farm and dedicated his life to its care and growth.
In 1946, at a dance at the Sons of Norway Club in Thief River Falls, Harold met the love of his life, Alpha Thorine Langved. The couple was married on August 1, 1948, at Maple Lake Lutheran Church. To this union, four wonderful children were born: David, Debra, Gary, and Bradley.
Harold began his farming career milking Shorthorn cattle, but eventually transitioned to raising beef cattle. Over the years, he raised many different varieties, always adapting and improving his herd. In his later years, he focused on Red Angus, a breed he came to appreciate for its quality and temperament. In addition to cattle, Harold raised a variety of animals over the years, including horses and chickens, and cultivated crops such as oats, wheat, barley, and alfalfa.
In his younger years, Harold enjoyed participating in horse shows, where his skill and dedication earned him many ribbons. He also found joy in horseback riding, playing cards, dancing, curling, deer hunting, snowmobiling, and traveling. His love for the outdoors and community activities was a constant throughout his life.
In addition to farming, Harold served his community by driving school bus for the Thief River Falls School District for 37 years. His excellent driving skills and dedication to the safety of students earned him a trophy in recognition of his service. After retiring, he continued to help others by driving the Tri-Valley Bus, a role he cherished.
Harold was a proud and active member of several organizations, including Trinity Lutheran Church, the Eagle’s Club, the Saddle Club, and the Snow Drifters Snowmobile Club. He was a 4-H leader and also served on the Pennington County Fair Board. Harold was an Excel Township Supervisor for 44 years. He also participated in the Senior Olympics, where he won several awards, a testament to his energy, competitive spirit, and commitment to staying active throughout his life. In 1989 the couple was awarded the Valley Farmer and Homemaker Award at the Crookston Winter Show.
Above all, Harold was a great father. He was patient, calm, and a quiet disciplinarian who led by example. His steady presence and gentle guidance left a lasting impact on his children and all who knew him.
Harold will be remembered for his devotion to family, love of the land, quiet strength, and generous spirit.
Survivors include his children, Debra (Nick) Drees of Thief River Falls, Gary (Laurie) Halvorson of Bemidji, Bradley (Patricia) Halvorson of Prior Lake; grandchildren, Nicholas (Heather) Drees, Michael (Vy Nguyen) Drees, Jon Drees, Anthony (Tina) Halvorson, Samuel (Tracy) Halvorson; step-grandchildren, Brianna (Alex) Johnson, McKenzie Haenke, Broderick “Brody” (fiancé Hannah) Haenke; great-grandchildren, Nora, Ivy, Cecilia “CiCi”, Mila, Eldin; step-greatgrandchildren, Coralie, Isla, Callan; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Alpha in 2015; son, David (Madelene) Halvorson; parents; siblings, Helen (Clifford) Carlson, Hazel Rebecca (Alfred) Solem, Lester (Thelma) Halvorson, Dagny (Stan) Wick, Stella (Alfred “Bud”) Bitzer, William (Helen) Halvorson, Morris (Adeline) Halvorson, Bernice Saupe, and Phyllis Styles; brothers and sisters-in-law, James (Maxine) Langved, Kathleen (Vernon “Butch”) Fahey, June (Alvin) Larson, and Donna (Otto) Kvasager.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with the service to celebrate Harold’s life at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls with Rev. Alex Amiot and Vicar Micah Moan officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com
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