Darwin G. Halvorson, 78, of Leeds, ND, formerly of Churchs Ferry, ND,  died Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Heart of America Medical Center in Rugby.  Funeral services will be Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 2:00 PM at Lebanon Free Lutheran Church in Leeds with Pastor Brenda Burns officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery later in the spring.  Visitation will Friday from 4 to 7pm with a 7pm Prayer Service at the Nelson Funeral Home in Leeds.   Casket bearers will be:  Corey Halvorson,  Michael Halvorson,  Mark Halvorson,  Paul Hess,  Jerry Mertchenske,  Jon Hermanson and  David Smeltzer.  Music will be from Nancy Silliman, vocalist with Dorothy Stuberg, pianist.

Darwin George Halvorson was born September 3, 1932 on the family farm southeast of Leeds to George and Olga (Eriksmoen) Halvorson.  He was raised on the farm and graduated in 1953 from the Leeds Public School.  Darwin lived in Churchs Ferry and worked as a plumber for Swenson's Plumbing and Heating and Gordon Johnson Plumbing.  He also farmed many years with his family.  Darwin cared for his mother until her death in 1996 and also retired that same year. He later moved to Leeds following the buyout in Churchs Ferry.

Darwin was baptized and confirmed in the Lebanon Free Lutheran Church where he served on the council and was serving as the janitor.  He enjoyed hunting, collecting antiques and restoring old tractors.

He is survived by his brothers:  Harold (Ruby) Halvorson,  Arland Halvorson,  Gerald Halvorson all of Leeds,  Richard (Sharon) Halvorson of Round Rock, TX and Larry (Betty) Halvorson of West Fargo, ND, along with a number of nieces and nephews.

Darwin was preceded in death by his parents and sisters-in-law:  Violet Halvorson and Marlene Halvorson.

Condolences:

Darwin was an amazing Uncle and friend.  We will miss his quiet nature and fun-spirited wit!  Our comfort is knowing he was welcomed home to God by his mother and father whom he served so faithfully.  Love and prayers go to the Halvorson brothers and their families. Melissa (Halvorson) & Jeff Stotts Family

Sorry to hear of the passing of Darwin, always enjoyed visiting with him. Our sympathy goes out to the Halvorson family. God bless and take care.       Garry & Darlene Thompson, Cavalier, ND