Elsworth Deloss Peter Barsness, son of Elmer and Dena (Aslakson) Barsness, was born April 13, 1927 in Barsness Township in Pope County, Minnesota. He was baptized at West Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hancock, MN. Elsworth grew up on a farm near Hancock and attended the Hancock High School. Following his schooling, Elsworth farmed for many years in Hoff Township, before moving to Hancock. He was united in marriage to Shirley Johnson.
Elsworth was a long time member of West Zion Lutheran Church in Hancock. He especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family. Elsworth was an avid hunter and fisherman, where his favorite place was Lake Emily. He was a voracious reader of mysteries and hunting and fishing magazines.
Elsworth died on Monday, April 14, 2008 at the Bethany Home in Alexandria, having lived to reach the age of 81 years. May God Bless and Keep our Dad in Heaven Forever.
He is survived by: Shirley Barsness of Fergus Falls; four children: Daryl (Jessica) Barsness of Starbuck and their children: Kara, Eric, Chelsie and Ian; Sandra (Patrick) Conroy of Fergus Falls and their children: Regan and Daniel; Richard (Julie) Barsness of Greenbush and their children: Waylon, Matthew, Paul and Caleb; and Steven (Paula) Barsness of Fergus Falls and their children: Sarah, Bryce and Danielle; three great-grandchildren and one sister: Mary Zeltwanger of Alexandria. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Pallbearers for the service are his 13 grandchildren: Kara, Eric, Chelsie, Ian, Regan, Daniel, Waylon, Matthew, Paul, Caleb, Sarah, Bryce and Danielle. Carol Naig will serve as organist for the service, with Reverend Becky Worner serving as soloist. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.