Russell Bjerken, 69

ÝÝÝ Thief River Falls - Russell Bjerken, 69, died Monday, August 16, 2004 at his home in Thief River Falls.

  Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 18, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Dennis Raymond officiating. Interment was held in Mahnomen.

  Russell Howard Bjerken was born April 15, 1935 in Thief River Falls, the son of James O. and Alice (Grendahl) Bjerken. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. He grew up and attended Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.

ÝÝÝHe was employed at Tunberg Motor Company in Thief River Falls for over 35 years. Russell  enjoyed sports and collecting antiques.

ÝÝÝSurvivors include three brothers, Vernon of Thief River Falls, Alden of Tacoma, Wash., and Gordon Bjerken of Thief River Falls; two sisters, Jeanett of Renton, Wash., and Marlene (Arnie) Natha of Minneapolis.

ÝÝÝHe was preceded in death by his parents; and his sisters, Elaine and Shirley.ÝÝÝÝÝÝA00003B2004AG25