Gerald Kenneth Amundson, age 93, of Prairie Farm, passed away at his home on Saturday, April 11, 2020 with his wife and daughter by his side.

Gerald was born in Prairie Farm on May 12, 1926.  He was the oldest child of Otto and Anna (Saugstad) Amundson.  Gerald attended school in Prairie Farm and worked at the Borkon Store for 2 ½ years until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on March 3, 1944 at the age of 17.  He was assigned to the destroyer U.S.S. Gainard and was involved in several battles in the Pacific theater.  He was discharged on June 8, 1946 and returned to Prairie Farm, where he married the love of his life, Josie Carlsrud, on May 20 1947.  They would have celebrated their 73rd anniversary this May.

After his discharge, he worked at the Standard Oil Station in Prairie Farm, started by his father, Otto, in 1939.  He and his brother, Vern, worked there together before eventually purchasing the business.  Upon Gerald’s retirement, Steve and his wife, Cindy, bought the station.  So, it truly was a generational family business.

Gerald was the last charter member of the Prairie Farm Lions Club, and a USS Gainard Destroyer Plank owner.  He was a member of the Prairie Farm Legion Holum Waite Post #259.  He also served on the Church Council and on the Village Board.

Gerald especially loved fishing in Canada, and was always ready to serve up a brandy old fashion from his “silo”.  He enjoyed traveling, golfing, hunting and entertaining family and friends in his home.  He always had a good time and made sure everyone around him did too.  He had a quick wit and a great sense of humor….always a story to tell.  Gerald just had an infectious love for life.  He always used to say, “You have to make your own fun!”  Countless “Geraldisms!”  Just ask anyone!

Gerald is survived by his wife, Josie, his children, Kathleen (Doug) Rudnicki of Minneapolis, MN, Dale (Nancy) Amundson of Menomonie, Steve (Cindy) Amundson of Prairie Farm; and son-in-law, Don Singerhouse of Prairie Farm.  He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren; also, sister, Delores Curtis; sister-in-law, Ione (Pat) Amundson; and many other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; Otto and Anna Amundson; daughter, Beverly Singerhouse; grandson, Trevor Amundson; brother, Vern and sister-in-law, Evelyn; brother, Osmond; sister, Ardella Morneau; and brother-in-law, Edward Morneau; and daughter-in-law, Lyn Amundson.   

A private graveside service will take place at Vanceberg Cemetery.  A Celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron. 

Last Update: Apr 15, 2020 6:09 am CDT