OBITUARY: Herman K. Klemesrud, 1868-1940, Mitchell County, Iowa Herman K. Klemesrud Herman K. Klemesrud was born near Bascobel, in Dane County, Wisconsin on February 23, 1868. That same year his parents, Knud and Liv Klemesrud, moved with their family to this community living at the Thideman Docken cabin until they moved onto their farm in Cedar Township. Here he spent this boyhood days attending the public school and later attending the St. Ansgar seminary. On March 9, 1892, he entered into matrimony with Lise Marie Dynna, and to this union ten children were born, four of whom have preceded him in death. Kalmar, Livius and Lars died at an early age, and Irene Lillian on January 1, 1927. His wife also preceded him in death on February 1, 1926. The deceased has been very active in the affairs of this community, holding offices in the Rudd Cooperative Elevator for 21 years, and acting as secretary of the Rock Creek Creamery for 10 years. He received his spiritual education in the Rock Creek Lutheran church where he was confirmed and has since been an active member. He was a faithful caretaker of the church and cemetery for the past 14 years. He enjoyed fairly good health until about a year ago, and seeming to recover somewhat, led his usual busy life until about six weeks ago. Death terminated his earthly life on October 15, 1940. The cause of his death was cancer. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Agnes, who has been a loving companion and helpmate since their marriage on November 26, 1936; his children, Mrs. Ingvald (Alice) Sponheim, Mrs. Edwin (Helen) Maakestad, and Kalmar, all of this community, Knud of Lake Mills, Herman Ludvig of La Grange, IL, and Mrs. Stanley (Louise) Dieterichs of Osage; and ten grandchildren. One sister, Mrs. Carrie Carlson of Osage, and one brother, Syver, of this community, also survive. His philosophy of life is expressed in this little Norwegian verse composed by him on his sickbed: Livet er en gaade, Svinder som en draabe I dne torre grund. Tenk paa et Her efter, Forend Dedens smerter Vugger dig I Blund. Copyright 2004, Steve Norby