Harlan E. Hjelter

Harlan Hjelter, 89, of Viroqua died on January 26, 2012. Harlan Hjelter, 89, of Viroqua died on January 26, 2012, at Vernon Manor.He was born July 8, 1922 on the family farm on North Ridge, Town of Harmony, to Ole and Alma (Larson) Hjelter. He attended Evening Star Elementary School and Viroqua High School.Harlan married Virginia Curtis on November 17, 1945 at the Parsonage in Viroqua, Wisconsin. Together they took over the family farm that his great-grandfather founded. While farming, Harlan served a term as Chairman of the Board for Chaseburg Coop Creamery. He was an active member in the Bad Axe Lutheran church.In 1975, he retired from farming and moved into Viroqua when he began selling insurance for Bankers Life. He also worked in maintenance for the Bethel Home in Viroqua.Harlan drove school bus for Viroqua School Systems for 20 years until his retirement at the age of 81. In later years he drove a "short bus" and developed a close bond to the students with special needs. He enjoyed hunting, vintage tractors and automobiles, and frequented thresheries and antique power shows. One of his favorite past-times was arguing politics and solving world problems with the morning coffee group. Proud of his Norwegian heritage, Harlan sought out Scandinavian foods and looked forward to holidays that included lutefisk, lefsa and rommegrot. He is survived by his son, Larry (Diane) of Hutchinson, Minnesota; his daughter, Mary (David) Squire of Janesville; and one grandchild, Adam Hjelter of Superior. He is also survived by his close friend, Carol McLees of Viroqua and her family all of whom shared their friendship and love.Harlan was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Virginia; his parents; and his brother Odean who died in infancy. Family and friends wish to express sincere appreciation to the caring staff at Vernon Manor and to Dr. Radcliffe. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church or Bad Axe Lutheran Church. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 30, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Pastor Lindsay Jordan will officiate with burial in the Viroqua Cemetery. Friends may call on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at the church. The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home of Viroqua is serving the family.