Donald Edward Halvorsen

Its been difficult to put into words in finding out that Mr. Halvorsen (Don) had passed. There are so many memories I have of him; from the early KC years at Bald Eagle, playing ball in the early 80s and then again in the mid to late 90s on the Forest Lake KC team. Being able to visit with him at my father’s passing and meeting up at St Mary’s Cemetery or after Mass at St. Peter’s in FL and the KC dinner’s there. Knowing that he was a very good friend of my father’s means quite a bit as well and the family grew up together in White Bear Lake.

He was there to see that a next generation also carried on. I am sorry for Chris, Mike, and Steve in the loss of their father. I am sure he was a strong willed one that expected much from you all. But, I can attest in our visits after softball games he shared how proud he was of each of you and your accomplishments. To be able to find one’s way in this crazy world is a true accomplishment. I can see a twinkle in his eye for each of you with a grin saying ‘you have done well!’…

I am thankful for him being able to share what wisdom he would for me… for his confidence in being more than just a ‘catcher’ and moving me to a “hot box” at third base whilst playing softball. Sure there were frustrations of letting one get between through my legs or behind me… but, his competitive nature was a strength to carry on to win.

At St. Peter’s seeing him with Mrs. Halvorsen was also special… just brought me back to the days of White Bear Lake off Kenny Lane or St Pius X and being such good friends with Mom and Dad and remembering where they were on July 4th, 1964 just a few hours before I was born… The annual dinner’s that they were shared together and then the families visiting playing bumper pool or in passing in the parking lots of church just waving a quick “hello, its good to see you…” and then extending the wishes on to my parents when I saw you. Visiting them both when my father had passed and sharing memories. I remember even once seeing him driving down 35E as my Dad was bringing me into a work assignment before he went off to Building 42. 3M was a great experience for him and one that I wish I had.

I am sorry, I am will be unable to make it down to the funeral. I just can’t do it… (I don’t know what kind of weather, I would be in nor the time off from work is not possible…) I so long wish I could to catch up with all of you and extend my condolences and sympathy. Writing it down on paper or electronically is not the same as being there in person, and I miss sharing with you one on one the friendship that I have with each of you that was certainly passed down from our parents.

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are extended to you and for the soul of Mr. Halvorsen. I am proud to have known, played ball with him, known him through Church and the Knights of Columbus, and to have been able to write a note of thanksgiving for giving me the opportunities he did of sharing family, faith, and friendship with him and his family. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you all. God bless his soul and God bless each and every one of you. Peace and God’s love surround you all I pray. Richard / Dick Hogan, PGK 4145, SPX 78