Duane J Bjerke

 Duane Jerome Bjerke, 96 of Buxton, ND earned his wings on June 26th, 2024 at the Luther Memorial Home, Mayville, ND, where he spent his last three years. He was born February 18th, 1928 to Otto and Olida (Hoglund) Bjerke. He was raised on the family farm west of Buxton. At a young age, he cared for his parents, farmed & fended the livestock.

 He married the love of his life, Iva Mae Johnson on July 29th, 1951. They lived on the family farm and worked hand in hand to provide for their family before moving into Buxton in 1957. Duane was Buxton’s Chief of Police from 1960-1970 along with farming for himself & for father-in-law. He also owned his own gravel business for 22 years. When his health declined at the age of 42, they lost everything but their love and determination.

 After gaining his health back, Duane worked security at American Crystal Sugar- Hillsboro while it was being built. Duane and Keith Aasheim started the Buxton Car Club. He said it kept all the young guys out of Trouble! Duane served many boards- one of which was the building of Central Valley School. In 1973, he applied for a position with B&W Elevator Supply in Minneapolis, MN. This started his career selling and servicing grain cleaning equipment in a four- state area. 

 Duane retired September 1st, 1990. He loved to golf, go fishing with his grandchildren and friends, have coffee and play a friendly game of smear at the Triple VVV and enjoyed his visits with the crew at the Buxton Cenex. He loved the comradery & friendships made. Duane also loved helping his neighbors out by mowing their lawns or moving snow. He was known for his beautifully lit yard at Christmas for all to enjoy. He called it “Labors of Love.” Duane was a true people person and was always willing to lend a hand for those who needed it. He valued his family and friends and his Norwegian Heritage. He always loved to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events whether it was volleyball, basketball, hockey or football. He especially loved blowing his foghorn in the end zone!

 He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Iva Mae. Parents, Otto and Olida Bjerke. Infant twin brothers, Orlean and Ordean Bjerke. Sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Leonard Basol. In-laws, Gust and Violet Johnson. Brother-in-law, Laverne Johnson. First Born, Jerry Bjerke, Second Born, Terry Bjerke. First Grandchild, Dane Bjerke, along with many dear friends.

 Duane will be deeply missed by his family. Daughter, Wendy (Gale) Haisley of Andover, MN. Son, Curt (Rhea Benning) Bjerke of Buxton, ND. Son, Tracy (Tina Borders) Bjerke of Bonita Springs, FL. Grandchildren, Dane’s Wife, Erin Bjerke, Jennifer (Chris) Lessard, Tom Bjerke, Solomon Bjerke, Amber Rose Bjerke, Mike Haisley, Leslie (Josh) Larson, Emily (Derek) Jacobson, Scott (Esther) Haisley, Matthew (Melissa) Slater, Mason (Beth) Bjerke, Mitchell (Heather Graham) Bjerke, Mackenzie (Tyler) Holub, McHale (Holly) Bjerke, Witney Bjerke and Katelyn Bjerke. 29 Great Grandchildren and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren & his sister-in-law, Helen Johnson.

Duane always told his kids and grandchildren that “None of you would be here if it wasn’t for me!” Duane’s working hands and kind, gentle heart are now at rest. May he be at Eternal Peace. Duane’s Family would like to thank the staff at Luther Memorial Home for all the special care given to Duane while living there.

 Services will be held to Celebrate Duane’s Life on Saturday, August 24th, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Buxton, ND. Interment will follow the services.