The death of John O. Nordenstrom, one of the county's pioneer settlers, occurred Monday morning, September 10, at 8:15 o'clock. The deceased suffered a stroke in March and two since that time. These strokes, combined with old age, caused his death. He reached the age of 79 years on September 10. Mr. Nordenstrom was a noted violinist, and played before King Oscar in Sweden many years ago. About nine years ago he won a contest for the best old time fiddler in the United States, competing against 92 violinists. The contest was sponsored by Henry Ford and took place at Detroit, Mich. He was a mason by trade. John O. Nordenstrom was born September 10, 1858, in Jamptland, Sweden, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Olof Nordenstrom. He was married June 24, 1882, at Sundvald, Medlpod, Sweden, to Martha Larson. In 1888 they came to this country, living at Pine City for a short time before moving to a farm in Grass Lake township, where they cleared land and underwent many hardships to build up a home. Later they moved into the village of Mora, leaving here to settle near Henriette. About a year ago they returned to the village of Mora to make their home. Two of their children, Oscar and Charles, were born in Sweden, and Mrs. Gerber was born on the boat en-route to this country. The other five were born in Grass Lake township. Mrs. Nordenstrom, and six sons and two daughters survive; also 38 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. The sons and daughters are Oscar, Charles and Ed of Henriette; Fred of Brook Park; J.B., Mrs. Laura Gerber, Conrad L., and Mrs. Carl Dickson (Sadie) of Mora. Funeral services are being held this afternoon, Thursday, at 2 o'clock from the Erickson chapel. Rev. H.E. Johnson of Quamba is officiating pastor. Six grandsons will act as pallbearers, Wallace, Bernard, Raymond, Roy, Virgil and Floyd. Interment will be in Oakwood cemetery. |