Orville L. Bjerke, 77, of Leeds, ND, formerly of Churchs Ferry, died Friday, April 19, 2013 at his home in Leeds.  Memorial Services will be Sunday, April 28, 2013,  2:00 PM at the Nelson Funeral Home Chapel in Leeds with Pastor Michael Rohrer officiating.  Burial will be later in the Churchs Ferry Cemetery.

Orville Leroy Bjerke was born August 18, 1935 at Brinsmade, ND, to Edwin and Alma (Remmen) Bjerke.  He attended school in Harlow,  Baker and Churchs Ferry, ND.  Orville entered the US Army on November 3, 1953 and was discharged October 10, 1956.  Orville and Betty Olson were married at Maddock, ND on April 22, 1954, making their home in Churchs Ferry.  He worked as a salesman until retiring.  The couple moved to Leeds in 2000.

Orville enjoyed hunting, caring for is lawn and especially his dog, Buffer.

Surviving are his wife:  Betty of Leeds;  sons:  Brad (Sandra) Bjerke of Churchs Ferry and Brian (Carla) Bjerke of Leeds;  daughter:  Patsy Bjerke of Devils Lake;  son-in-law:  Robert Christianson of Leeds;  5 grandchildren:  Tyler Bjerke,  Taryn Bjerke,  Elsie Bjerke,  Ethan Bjerke  Jason (Shanna) Christianson; great-granddaughter:  Kendall Christianson; sisters:  Bonnie (Ivan) Aabrekke of Minnewaukan and Delores (Dale) Soltis of Bowlus, MN;  brother-in-law:  Duane (Sue) Olson of Revere, MA and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Peggy Christianson,  brother  Gordon Bjerke, an infant brother, sister-in-law Marian Baker, and brother-in-law  James Olson.




Condolences:

We are very sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Orville. Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to the family. I remember Uncle Orville always having a smile on his face. Forever you will hold his love and cherished memories.   Jeff and Sally Stoa