Alan Tonn

Alan Robert Tonn, son of Herbert and Emma (Weidler) Tonn was born on October 9, 1931 in Morris, Minnesota. He grew up on his parent’s farm near Hancock, Minnesota. Alan attended elementary and high school in Hancock. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Church in Hancock and was a lifelong member. After graduating from high school, he attended North Dakota State University for one year before serving in the United States Marine Corps. He served during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Japan. Alan received an honorable discharge on August 11, 1955. Upon returning home, Alan went to work on the family farm. On September 22, 1956 he was united in marriage to Joanne Marie Nybakken in Fargo, ND. From this union three sons were born. The family made their home on the farm in Hancock until Alan’s retirement when they moved to Pelican Rapids and made their home on Lake Lizzie.

Alan was a lifelong member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. He served on the Morris Area school board, Hodges Township board, and was a longtime chairman of the Steven’s Community Hospital board of directors. He was also chairman of the Independent Farmers Ag Service. Alan loved sports, especially baseball. He rooted for the Twins, Vikings, and the Hancock girls’ basketball team. He enjoyed traveling and especially loved to visit Texas and spend time with his grandchildren.

Alan died on Friday, March 12, 2010 surrounded by his family at Merit Care Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota, having reached the age of 78.

He is survived by his wife Joanne Tonn of Pelican Rapids; two sons: James Tonn of Arlington, TX, and Jerry (Kitty) Tonn of Dallas, TX; two grandchildren: Adam Tonn and Sarah Tonn of Dallas, TX; brothers Richard (Kathy) Tonn of Inver Grove Heights, Gene (Beverly) Tonn of Rosemount; sisters Janice Freeman of Austin, TX, and Joan (JoAnn Moody) Tonn of San Diego, CA. He was preceded in death by his son Gregory Tonn, and his parents.

Pallbearers for the service are his nephews Carter Tonn, Brian Tonn, Dan Gill, Travis Nettum, Chad Freeman, and great-nephew Travis Tonn. Honorary Pallbearers are Adam Tonn, Sarah Tonn, and Bubpha (Wid) Tuncharoen.

Phyllis Joos will serve as organist for the service, with Les Nettum serving as soloist. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris, Minnesota is in charge of the arrangements.