Laurence D. Heglund

Laurence Dale Heglund, 88, Cook, passed away at the Virginia Convalescent Center on Saturday, September 19, 2015.

Laurence was born on June 21, 1927, the youngest child of Edward and Marie (Degrugillier) Heglund, in the family homestead in Field Township where he resided his entire life. Laurence proudly served his country during WWII with the U.S. Army stationed in the Philippines. Following his service, Laurence discovered his love of carpentry and was mentored by Charles (Charlie) Pohl whom he worked for several years. Laurence then partnered with Robert (Bob) Knutson operating K&H Builders and owned Heglund Cabinet Shop for many years. He was also employed by Hill Wood Products for 10 years, retiring in 1989.

In the spring of 1960 Laurence was sent to work on a construction job at a resort in Northern Ontario, Canada. There he met the love of his life, Bernice O'Beirn. Laurence and Bernice were married on August 29, 1960 and moved to the family homestead where he built their home and together raised their five children. Laurence loved gardening, caring for his property and was always remodeling his home. In his later years, Laurence could usually be found mowing his lawns or working in his woodshop. He enjoyed reading and spending time with his family and friends, especially his children and grandchildren. Laurence was a lifetime member of the Cook VFW and attended St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cook where he was a member of the Men's Club.

In addition to his parents, Laurence was preceded in death by his loving wife Bernice on June 6, 2013 and his three siblings and their spouses; Aline Heglund (Philip) Vidor, Edward (Esther Makela) Heglund Jr, and Maurice (Sylvia Lindgren) Heglund.

Laurence is survived by his five children - Tracey (Edward) Herrera of Fort Worth, TX, Lyrae (Gary) Goblirsch of Owatonna, MN, Greg (Jolene Wilson) Heglund, Jim Heglund and Deb (Tony Brande) Heglund all of Cook; six grandchildren - Jacob Herrera, Jared Herrera, Ryan Goblirsch, Kyle Goblirsch, Jurnee Wilson and Aaliyah Heglund; along with numerous cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

SERVICES: The Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am Monday, October 12 ^th , at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cook. Visitation will be 5 to 7 pm Sunday (Oct. 11 ^th ) at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook, and will continue one hour prior to the funeral. Father Drew Braun will be the celebrant. The honorary bearers will be Laurence's six grandchildren. Military honors will be accorded by the Cook Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1757 and the Orr American Legion Post #480. A reception in Laurence's honor will follow in the church social hall.   Interment will be in the Cook Community Cemetery. To sign the online guestbook or to send a condolence to the family, go to: www.mlakerfuneralhome.com