Ronald E. Bjorklund

   Ronald Edward Bjorklund was born in Rush City, Minnesota on November 1, 1942 to William and Vivian Bjorklund.  Ronnie died at his home on January 17, 2011 surrounded by his family.  Ronnie married his wife, Carroll on June 12, 1965. Ronnie and Carroll celebrated 45 years of marriage.     Ronnie attended school in Rush City, Rock Creek and Pine City.  He graduated from Pine City High School in 1961.  His farming career started at around age five while at an auction with his father.  Ronnie jumped up and proudly stated, “I’ll give a hundred” at the top of his lungs as they led the Billy goat through the ring.  Ronnie’s bid was accepted and they took the bargain home for $2.00.   At the age of 16, he made the front page of the Pine Poker when the car he was test driving was struck from behind and shoved into the gas pumps at the Erickson gas station.    One of his memorable moments happened when he was preparing the yard for seed at his new home on the St Croix Road.  He was smoothing the soil with a section of drag, pulling it with his latest bargain, a John Deere B.  His judgment was a little off as he lodged it between two trees.        He often enjoyed traveling and camping with friends and family.  Ronnie also truly enjoyed coaching and watching his grandsons and great grandson play hockey.    Ronnie is survived by his wife Carroll, two sons Steve Bjorklund of Pine City and Dave (Laura) Bjorklund of Shoreview, MN; two grandsons Todd (Jamie) Bjorklund of Pine City and Eric (Becky) Bjorklund of Pine City; granddaughter Alex Reaves of Duluth; great grandson Chase Bjorklund and sister Joyce France of Cambridge.    Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, William and Vivian Bjorklund. Brothers: Ewald, Robert, Richard and Harold. Sister: Jeanne Wimmer.Funeral services are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Saturday, January 22nd at the Pine City Evangelical Free Church Lighthouse.  Interment will be in Hilltop Cemetery, Pine City.  Visitation will be from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at the Swanson Funeral Chapel and continue Saturday 1 hour prior to the service at the Church.