Kenneth T. Berge

Kenneth T. Berge, 81, of rural Cashton, passed away at his home Monday January 10, 2011. He was born September 2, 1929 to Herman and Theoline (Bagstad) Berge in Washington Township, La Crosse County. Kenneth's only sibling was a brother who died in infancy. Kenneth farmed his entire life in Timber Coulee on the farm that has been in the Berge family for over a century and a half. On May 10, 1958 he was united in marriage to Alta Kraabel. They had 48 wonderful years together until her death on July 1, 2006. Kenneth's interests included a passionate love of deer and turkey hunting. He was also very proud of his Norwegian heritage and spent countless hours at the Norskedalen Heritage Center enjoying their programs and events. He was an active life long member of Skogdalen Lutheran Church.

Survivors include three children Gary (Gurmal) Berge of El Cajon, Calif., Lynda (Thomas) Jaeger of Pine Island, Minn., and Karen (Myron) Odegard of Viroqua; 5 grandchildren Kristyn and Evan Jaeger, Luke, Elyse and Alex Odegard; 3 step grandchildren Christina, Michael and Simran; 2 step great grandchildren Shyla and Divya.

He was preceded in death by his wife Alta, his parents and his mother-in-law Olga Kraabel.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday January 15, 2011 at Skogdalen Lutheran Church in Timber Coulee. Rev. Gary Daines will officiate with burial in the church cemetery. Friends may call on Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley and at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until service time. Memorials may be given to Skogdalen Lutheran Church, Norskedalen or the charity of your choice.