Wayne Ralph Jespersen, 90, of Jackfish Bay, Minn., died Wednesday, April 18, 2012, at the Good Samaritan Society-International Falls.
Wayne was born May 13, 1921, in International Falls, Minn. He was a lifelong resident of the Falls and graduated from Falls High School Class of 1940.
Wayne married Virginia Sutherland on Aug. 31, 1957, at Mission Covenant Church. They were married 54 years.
Wayne worked at Boise Cascade from 1946 until he retired in 1981 from the chip processing plant. He never missed a day of work during his 35 years of service.
Wayne also enjoyed farming, raising beef Hereford cattle, gardening, and flower gardens.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Hulda Jespersen; brother, Harold Jespersen; and two sisters, Blanch Williams and Margaret Casey.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Virginia; four sons, Wayne “Chip” (Debbie) of Grand Rapids, Scott (Julie) of International Falls, Jay (Judy) of Bettles, Alaska, and Brian (Heidi) Jespersen of International Falls; five grandchildren, Jenna (Kevin) Brown, Emily, Andy, Ben and Ashley Jespersen; and a special niece, Sheryl Stemm of International Falls.
A memorial gathering is planned for 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Ranier Community Building, Ranier, Minn.
Memorials would be preferred in his memory to Koochiching County Senior Center or Good Samaritan Society-International Falls.
Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com.
Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary Inc., International Falls.
