Maynard Mortenson

Maynard Mortenson, age 93, of Arvilla, ND passed away Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at the Deaconess Health Center in Northwood, ND.

Maynard Theodore Mortenson was born November 4, 1922 at Milton, ND the son of Matt and Thilda (Axvig) Mortenson. He attended grade school in Oxford Township, Cavalier County and high school in Park River and Grand Forks. Maynard served in the United States Air Corp for 3 years as an airplane and engine mechanic. He served during the occupation of Japan and received his Honorable Discharge with the rank of Corporal. Maynard received the American Theatre Service medal, Victory medal, Asiatic Pacific Service medal and the Good Conduct medal.

Maynard was united in marriage to Mary Ann Warnke on January 3, 1947 at United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. They lived in Grand Forks for 10 months, then moved to a farm near Arvilla and retired from farming in October, 1988. They continued to make their home on the farm. Maynard and Mary Ann adopted two sons, Joe and John.

Maynard is a member of the Arvilla Presbyterian Church where he served as a past elder; member of the Arvilla Community club, past supervisor of Chester Township, past member of the Emerado-Arvilla Lions Club where he earned the Melvin Jones Award and he was a past Lions representative for the Emerado Cub Scouts.


He loved kids and farming; and his two sons and grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Surviving members of his family include sons: Joe, Arvilla and John (Becky), Jamestown; grandchildren: Ryan, Arvilla, Gerard, Thomas and Nicholas, Jamestown; Lindsey, Arvilla and great granddaughter Berkleigh Mortenson; sister: Lorraine (Jerome) Seelon, Babbitt, MN; brothers; Leo (Helga) Nelson, Hibbing, MN; Doyle (Doris) Nelson, Ely, MN and and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, sister, Verna (Ray) Knoeble and brothers Joe (Fran) Nelson, Jr., Northome, MN, Vernon (Sue) Nelson, Duluth, MN;

FUNERAL SERVICES: 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 20, 2016 at the Arvilla Presbyterian Church in Arvilla, ND.

VISITATION: One hour prior to the service in the church Friday.

INTERMENT: Arvilla Cemetery, Arvilla, ND

MILITARY HONORS: Ted Valerius Post 97 of the Larimore American Legion and the ND National Guard Honor Team.