Johannes H. Enestvedt

Enestvedt, Johannes H. Agriculturist, age 97 of Sacred Heart and Renville, MN passed away on May 27, 2012. Survived by sons, Curtis (Debra) Enestvedt, Robert (Berdelle) Enestvedt, Roger (Rose) Enestvedt; daughter Janet (Norman) Westby; nine grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Bert (Verne) Enestvedt. Preceded in death: Recently on April 18, 2012 his beloved wife, Sis; his parents, Engebret and Clara Enestvedt; siblings, Odean Enestvedt, Alberta Enestvedt, Clara Enestvedt Nelson. Johannes, a truly remarkable "gentle" man who lived a remarkable life. He will always be remembered for his integrity and his amazing kindness to everyone he met. Johannes believed in the goodness of mankind which he proved by living as an example every day while here on earth. On the doorsteps of the Great Depression at age 9, his father, Engebret, suddenly died. His mother, Clara, was left to raise 5 young children, run a farm, continue to develop hybrid seeds, and establish business relationships to manage the Enestvedt Seed Business. Johannes was taught early in his life even with hard times, along with many challenges there "could" and "would" be opportunities for security and happiness. His deep Norwegian heritage roots were in place. Education being a priority was an opportunity for young Johannes to graduate from Agriculture School at Morris, MN (now the U of M, Morris). A scholar, top of his class, while mastering farming techniques, understanding environmental benefits, building business sense, already a man of integrity, wisdom and wit, he returned to the family farm. With his mother's guidance, together with his siblings, the farm and seed business sustained, was enhanced and grew to be a model farm. At that time Johannes, with his brothers, committed to the University of Minnesota their time and interests developing hybrid seeds and tending to test plots at the Enestvedt farm site. Presently the Enestvedt Certified Seed Business on the Century Family Farm is in part Johannes' legacy. With hard economic and war times fading, Johannes, just at the right time, married lona "SIS" Forkrud. Together they farmed, raised their children and laughed a lot! Between the seasons of farming both enjoyed daily card games of whist. Johannes being a champion player. His quiet wit and humor would bring a chuckle at just the right moment. He couldn't pass up an opportunity to play a hand of cards! As a caretaker of the land, Johannes did not count his riches by awards, blue ribbons, silver nor gold. His riches were his faith, his marriage and partnership to Sis, his children and their families, faithful friends, and his toils in the soil along with his precious hybrid seeds. He witnessed the importance of farmers being responsible for feeding the children of the world and for future generations as well. He did leave this world a better place, and he truly walked with God. His memorial service will be held at his beloved Opdal Lutheran Church, South Sacred Heart, MN on Friday, June 1 at 11:00 AM. Visitation with family greeting will be on Thursday, May 31 from 5 to 7 PM at Dirks-Blem Funeral Home, 427 N. Main, Renville, MN 56284 (320 329 3555)

Published on May 29, 2012