Harlen L. Grovom, age 92, of Park River, ND, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, at First Care Health Center of Park River, with loved ones by his side.
Harlen L Grovom was born Oct. 20, 1932, at his aunt’s home in rural Park River, ND. He was raised on the Grovom family homestead and attended school at Garfield School District #46. After his education, he began farming. He farmed with his family and in 1960 he purchased the N.G. Grovom farm and started his herd of Charolais cattle. Harlen loved his farm and his cattle. He was the 2002 Pioneer Breeder of the year.
Harlen was a member of many boards through the years, the longest being on the Northeast North Dakota Pioneer Machinery Association, since 1973. He was a member of Golden Valley Lutheran Church, until it dismantled. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, square dancing and “inventing”. He and many friends made special trips in the “Fishing Bus” to Canada. Harlen’s shop was a regular coffee stop for many in the community, whether coffee time was 10:00 or 3:00, you could always get a cup of coffee, cookies and conversation. One of Harlen’s favorite adventures was to Norway with his friend, Dr. Gerald Dahl. He was an incredibly special man to many: a “special uncle”, a loyal friend, an avid adventurer, and genius “tinkerer”.
Harlen is survived by his sister Carol Wetterlund, Omaha, NE; nieces: Marie (Grant) Williams, Antler, OK and Ruth (Denny) Duncan, Omaha, NE; nephew: Gerald Wetterlund, Omaha, NE; several great nieces and nephews; godchild: Denae Stern; close friends: Lane (Vicki) Bina, Lawton, ND, Randy (Jeanette) Bjornstad, Park River, ND, and Chad (Carrie) Thorsteinson, Bismarck, ND; and many cousins and friends also. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Richard Wetterlund, and godchild, Phyllis Chally.
Funeral services were on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church of Park River.
Interment will be at Golden Valley Lutheran Cemetery of rural Park River in the spring. www.tollefsonfuneralhome.com
