Wilford T. Bakken

Wilford T. Bakken age 96 of Detroit Lakes, MN died Fiday July 1, 2011 at Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes. Wilford Bakken was born on January 31, 1915 in rural Audubon, MN to Hans and Elise Norderhaug Bakken. He attended Country School in rural Audubon and worked on the family farm. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Audubon. On January 30, 1938 he married Stella Olson in Audubon. They farmed south of Audubon where they raised turkeys and cattle. They later moved to a farm closer to Audubon. He then went into a wholesale and retail bait business with his brother. After moving into Audubon, he continued in the bait business until his retirement at which time he sold the business to his son, Gary. Wilford spent over fifty years in the bait business. Wilford was very active in the community as well as a member of the school board, city council and had served as Mayor of Audubon. He was also on the HRA Board and was a member of the Audubon Fire Dept. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and all sports. Wilford is survived by his wife of 73 years, Stella; daughter, Joanne Olson, of Detroit Lakes, MN; son, Gary (Barb) Bakken, of Audubon, MN; four grandchildren, Flint Motschenbacher, Nancy (Ron) Soberg, Brent (DeAnna) Motschenbacher, all of Detroit Lakes, MN; LeAnn (Chad) Smoley, of Woodbury, MN; and three great grandchildren, Paige and Daphne Smoley, and Shianne Motschenbacher. He was preceded in death by his parents and eight brothers and sisters.