Orvis Primmer

Orvis Primmer, 80, of Viroqua, died Wednesday February 15, 2017. Orvis Wayne Primmer passed away at the Gundersen Healthcare System surrounded by his family on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at the age of 80 after a courageous battle with cancer. Orvis was born on September 22, 1936 in Viroqua, WI to Guy and Merle (Fish) Primmer. He graduated from Viroqua High School where he was a member of the boxing team. Orvis was joined in marriage to Janice Engh on April 10, 1954. He had a variety of jobs, which include working at Fair Banks & Morris, hauling milk and making cheese. However, he spent most of his life doing what he loved, which was farming. During this time he was involved in the Vernon County NFO where he served as president for several years. After retirement, he worked at Spensley Grain and enjoyed helping his grandson Bryce on the family farm. Orvis was a lifelong member of the Viroqua United Methodist Church, where he served as a trustee for over 30 years. He was also a member of the Vernon County Board serving on various committees, and enjoyed many years as a leader for the Route 56 4-H Club. Family was extremely important to Orvis. He loved following his grandchildren and great-grandchildren during their sporting events. He played dartball for over 40 years, and was inducted into the Dartball Hall of Fame. He also enjoyed camping, golfing, hunting, and fishing. He is survived by his loving wife Janice of 62 years; his six children: Cindy, Vicky (Daniel) Inman, Larry (Cindy), Allen (Jeana), Louise (Brad) Bjornstad, and Corey (Michelle); eleven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; siblings: JoAnn Hirsch, Loren (Jenese), Donald (Lillian) and Adrian (Linda); and in-laws, Maynard (Char) Engh. Preceding him in death are his parents; in-laws, Norman and Alice Engh; brother, Leon (Bud) Sr.; and sister, Jean (Betty) Zube; in-laws: Thomas Hirsch, Cleo Primmer, Paul Zube, Laverne Engh, Eugene & Maebelle Engh, and Beverly & Floyd Zitzner; and one great-grandson, Tristan Primmer. Blessed be his memory. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 18, 2017 at the Viroqua United Methodist Church. Pastor Jean Waldron will officiate with burial to follow in the Viroqua Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday from 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. at the Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home, 123 W. Decker Street, (Hwy. 56 West) in Viroqua and at the church on Saturday one hour prior to the service. A luncheon at the Viroqua VFW will follow the service. On line condolences may be offered at www.vossfh.com The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home of Viroqua is serving the family.