February 26, 2018 at 10:33 a.m.
Vern Nordquist
Vern Nordquist
Vern was born September 6, 1932 in Branch Township, Chisago County, Minnesota. He was confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Branch. Vern attended the old Hawkinson grade school and graduated from North Branch High School in 1950. Following high school, Vern began dating a fellow classmate from Almelund, Doris Abrahamson. On October 29, 1955, the two were married at Immanuel Lutheran Church, in Almelund.
In the spring of 1956, Vern had the opportunity to buy the family farm from his parents in Sunrise, Minnesota. While his initial plan was to be a farmer, his passion for woodworking began to take hold. In the early 1960’s, Vern took a job with McGowan Cabinet shop in Forest Lake where he developed and honed his wood working skills. By the late 60’s, Vern had acquired much of his own equipment and opened his own business, Colonial Cabinets. He converted the barn on the family farm into his shop. Colonial Cabinets continued to provide for his family through the mid 1980’s. At that time, Vern decided to pursue his desire for more artistic freedom in his work and launched Colonial Galleries. His new venture produced furniture and finishing pieces that he designed, produced and sold at craft shows throughout the Midwest. In 2001, Vern and Doris moved from the family farm to their dream home in North Branch. Vern continued enjoying quality time with Doris, traveling, RV camping, golfing, spending time with grandchildren, volunteering at church, playing cards, and going to early morning coffee with friends.
Vern is preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Marie, and sister Helen (Don) Gearhart. He is survived by the love of his life, Doris; daughter Sherrie of Vadnais Heights; sons David (Connie) of Lino Lakes, Jon (Sheila) of Eden Prairie and his five grandchildren, Emily, McKella, Andrew, Kylee and Briggs.
Memorials may be given to Immanuel Lutheran Church or the North Branch Senior Center.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 23, 2018 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Almelund with Rev. Marla Amborn officiating. Visitation will take place (today) Thursday, February 22 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com
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