Gordon Hjelmen, 94, Blooming Prairie

Gordon “Gordy” Allen Hjelmen, age 94, of Blooming Prairie, passed away Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, at his home in Blooming Prairie.

Gordon A. Hjelmen was born in Mower County on March 21, 1928, to Peter O. and Mathilda (Helgeson) Hjelmen. He grew up working on the farm in Austin; until he went to work for the Red Oak Creamery; after which he began working for his uncle Carl Hjelmen.

On June 2, 1951, he married Goldie Mae Berge. He was a long-time member of the First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie, serving wherever he was needed. The couple started their family in Blooming Prairie, later moving to the farm in Westfield Township, Dodge County.

Gordy had many talents and interests, including woodworking, building model airplanes, playing cards, and farming. He took great pride in his miniature horses that he got when he retired and used to love giving rides to kids; Gordy was often found around town giving rides and going to parades.

Survivors include three sons: Steven Hjelmen of Blooming Prairie, Richard (Renee) Hjelmen of Garretson, S.D., Michael Hjelmen (Tammy Bordeaux) of Blooming Prairie; 12 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter O. and Mathilda Hjelmen; wife, Goldie Hjelmen; his second love, Cora Lee Emanuel; daughter, Mary Hjelmen Gifford; brothers, Howard and David Hjelmen; sisters, Myrtle Ginn and Dorothy Onstad; and one grandson Michael John Hjelmen.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. Visitation will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 26, at Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home in Blooming Prairie and will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Interment will be in First Lutheran Cemetery.

Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home in Blooming Prairie is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.