Malcolm S. Tufton

Malcolm S. Tufton, age 86, of rural Moorhead, MN, died on Tuesday, March 17, 2009, peacefully in his home under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley with his family by his side.Malcolm "Mel" Tufton was born on May 25, 1922 in Moorhead, MN to Oliver and Florence Wentzel Tufton. He grew up near Kragnes, MN, farming with his brother Orville "Bud" Tufton. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and later returned home to continue farming with Bud. On November 8, 1953, he married Harriet Lakeman in rural Borup, together they had three children. Malcolm continued to reside in their home until his death. Malcolm enjoyed dancing, family gatherings with his children and grandchildren and fishing with family and friends. He was an active member of North Buffalo Lutheran Church and helped build the original church.He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Harriet of rural Moorhead, MN; one son, Randy Loni Tufton of Ada, MN; two daughters, Cindy Condon of East Grand Forks, MN and Sally Brett Peterson of Osage, MN; seven grandchildren, Mary, Jessica, Ivy, Garrett, Sophie, Justin and Ryan; two sisters, Bernice White and Hazel Schimming both of Moorhead, MN; and one sister-in-law, Myrt Tufton of rural Moorhead, MN.He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Orville Tufton.The family expresses their sincere thanks to the staff of MeritCare's Dialysis Unit and Hospice of the Red River Valley for their loving kindness and care that they provided during this difficult time.In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Hospice of the Red River Valley or the charity of the givers choice.