Obituary: Russell Leonard Bergalund

Russell Leonard Berglund, 77, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 in his home with family by his side after a lengthy journey with Alzheimer's disease. Russ was born Aug. 18, 1946, to Leonard and Cora (Lund). He grew up on his family's farm in Brevator Township, where he developed his love for gardening and farm equipment.

After graduating from Albrook High school in 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserves, where he spent two years of active duty in the Vietnam War on the USS Valley Forge.

In October 1971, Russ married Jan Lee Joice. Together they raised a son, Jamie and daughter, Sarah. As a family they spent many weekends camping, fishing, and attending hockey tournaments.

Russ worked as a pipefitter for Potlatch/Sappi for nearly 35 years. Upon his retirement, Russ and Jan enjoyed traveling and raising vegetable and flower gardens. They especially loved going on their annual fishing trip to Canada.

Russ had always been fascinated by farm equipment, maps, and astronomy. He also enjoyed photography, nature, and all animals, including a particular love and appreciation for the birds and critters that visited their yard. His greatest loves were his family, his Allis Chalmers tractor, and his faithful furry companion, Cookie.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Cora; brother, Robert; sisters, Dorothy and June.

He will be missed by his wife of 52 years, Jan; son, Jamie (Kim); daughter, Sarah (Jonathan)Houareau; sister, Janet; sisters-in-law, Betty and Marcia; granddaughter, Adelynn; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Carlton County Animal Rescue or the Alzheimer's Association.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care. A gathering of friends and family will take place 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Atkins Northland Funeral Home in Cloquet. To sign the guestbook or leave an online tribute, visit http://www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com.

Pine Knot News, Feb. 9, 2024