Ernest Gilbertson, 85, died Wednesday, January 26, 2005 at Northwest Medical Center, CNC Unit, Thief River Falls, MN.

Ernest James Gilbertson was born May 19, 1919 in Flandreau, SD, the son of Hjalmer and Bertha (Ellingson) Gilbertson. He attended school in Flandreau.

On December 22, 1941, Ernest was united in marriage to Ruth Knutson at Brookings, SD.

He served in the United States Army during World War II. Upon completion of service, the couple moved to Crookston, MN in 1948 where he worked for Ottertail Power Company until 1975. He then transferred to Ottertails Big Stone Plant and worked there until his retirement in 1982 with 32 years of service. They moved to Thief River Falls, MN in 1982.

Ernie enjoyed fishing, hunting, auto races and hobby farming. He especially loved spending time with his grandkids. He will be remembered as a good husband, father and grandfather.

Survived by wife, Ruth, Thief River Falls, MN; daughters, Gloria Gilbertson, Grand Forks, ND and Shirley (Danny) Farden, Redwood City, CA; sons, Russell (Ramona), Shevlin, MN and Dennis (Linda), Warroad, MN; 9 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; 2 great great-grandchildren; brothers, Milton (Dorothy) Gilbertson and Howard Gilbertson, all Crookston, MN.

Preceded in death by daughter, Bonnie, a granddaughter, parents, sister and 3 brothers.