Orlen J. Valan, Sr.

Orlen J. Valan, 84, Moorhead MN passed away on Sunday, June 19, 2016 in Eventide Senior Living, Moorhead.
Orlen was born December 2, 1931 to Malker and Anne Valan. He was raised on the family farm near Rustad, MN. He attended school at Rustad, Moorhead and graduated from Comstock High School in 1950. He then began his life long career of farming with his brother, Merlyn, and later with his son Orlen, Jr. and grandsons, Joe and Rex. He served in the United States Army at Fort Hood, Texas and Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland.
Orlen married Lavon Brandt on February 4, 1954. They had two children together, Twila and Orlen, Jr. They divorced on February 4, 1972. Orlen sent Lavon flowers on February 4 for many years, and she never knew which occasion he was celebrating.
Orlen was an enthusiastic member of the Elks, Shriners, and American Legion. He enjoyed family, friends, traveling, an active social life and having fun. He was truly a unique character.
He is survived by his daughter, Twila Ron Valan Beyer, Winter Haven, FL; and son, Orlen Kris Valan, Jr., Moorhead; four grandchildren, Joe Callie Valan, Moorhead, Rex Valan, Moorhead, Maggie Valan, Maui HI, and Tatiana Beyer, Winter Haven, FL; and one great-granddaughter, Darby Valan.
Orlen was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Lillian, Tina and Anne; brothers Grant and his wife Florence, and Merlyn and his wife Shirlee.
Orlen’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Serenity Assisted Living, Eventide, Merv and Diane Valan Nordeng and Matt Valan for their many acts of kindness and special care for Orlen.
The memorial gathering for family and friends will be on Wednesday, June 22, from 5:00 to 7:00, with a prayer service starting at 7:00 at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead.