Harland David “Punk” Mortenson

Harland “Punk” Mortenson, 84, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on January 1, 2023, under the care of hospice of the Veterans Hospital, Minneapolis, MN.

Harland was born on April 23, 1938, in Felton, MN, to Fred and Gladys (Larson) Mortenson and grew up on a farm near Ogema, MN.

He served in the army from 1958-1961. He was stationed in Germany at Tomkins Barracks in Schwetzingen, acquiring the rank of Corporal.

Harland worked at Kost Bros Construction as a heavy machinery operator for over 30 years, retiring at the age of 62.

He enjoyed deer hunting with family, especially his son and grandsons and their friends. He also enjoyed fishing and loved the occasional trips they made to Rainy River. Harland liked to play cards, Yahtzee, going to the casino, watching sports and happy hour – mainly at Morty’s in Glyndon.

Harland had a great love for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. They brought great joy to his life. He was very much anticipating the welcome of twins in the Spring.

He spent his last 1 ½ years at the Veterans Home in Minneapolis, MN, where he got to see much more of them. He loved the staff there and continued to play cards and games and loved to joke around with the staff. He was well-liked in return. He enjoyed his time there and helped the staff with the community gardens, decorating for holidays, and delivering monthly calendars to residents.

We miss him dearly as we know many others do as well.

Harland is survived by his children, Daniel (Arlene) Mortenson and Michelle (Jay) Borgen; grandchildren, Brad (Aimee) Mortenson, Travis (Aleks) Mortenson, and Tasha (Dan) Michlin; and great grandchildren, Erin, Emma, Carter, Owen and Frankie, brother Doug and sisters Ida, Pat, and Linda. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers and sisters, Warren, Louella, Mavis, Ramona (Cookie), Wayne, Clifford (Chip), Merlin.

Harland was a great storyteller and was a part of some amazing stories. Please take a moment to follow the link below and share some of your best stories or photos with Harland or offer your sympathies in this book. https://www.newlywords.com/remembering-harland-punk-mortenson

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to St. Jude’s Hospital. Please follow the link to donate in Harland’s memory https://www.stjude.org/donate/srch/donate-in-honor-or-memory-of-someone.html

Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN.