Westaker Free Lutheran Church, Newfolden, MN, will Live Stream the service.

John Donald Bjorsness, age 80, of Newfolden, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at North Valley Hospital in Warren, MN.

John was born on October 8, 1945, in Thief River Falls, Pennington County, Minnesota, to Edwin and Pearl Mary (Conklin) Bjorsness. He grew up in Newfolden alongside his brother, Larry, and graduated in 1964 from Newfolden High School. He later earned a college degree in business management from Moorhead State College in 1969, a foundation that supported his lifelong dedication to farming. After graduating, John began working for Wausau Insurance as an insurance underwriter and was part owner of a convenience store in Twin Cities area. In 1972, he returned to Newfolden to continue farming with his family.

In 1986, John married Bonnie (Jensrud), in Newfolden, MN, and together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and hard work. They raised two sons, David and Ryan, who were a constant source of pride and joy.

John spent his life farming, a vocation he approached with commitment, resilience, and deep respect for the land. Outside of work, he enjoyed traveling, reading, spending time with his dogs and cats, and cheering on the Twins baseball and Vikings football teams. Nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his grandchildren.

He was an active member of the Newfolden Lions Club, former Board Member at Heritage Christian School, Newfolden Co-op Oil and a devoted member of Westaker Free Lutheran Church. John was confirmed in his faith on May 8, 1960, a milestone that remained meaningful throughout his life. John was later baptized on June 15, 2023.

John is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie; his sons, Ryan (Heather) and David; grandchildren: Kylie, Taylor, Carson and Noah, and his brother, Larry (Ruth). He is also remembered by many brothers and sisters-in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members who cherished him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and Edwin; two infant siblings; and two infant grandchildren: Luke and Baby Bjorsness; and sister-in-law: Margery Bjorsness; and many other family members. Their memories remained close to his heart.

John will be remembered for his steady kindness, his quiet strength, witty humor, and the deep love he held for his family and community.

Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Westaker Free Lutheran Church in Newfolden, MN with Pastor Kevin Hall officiating.

Livestream - https://youtube.com/live/KQx6TX81Mlc

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at Westaker Free Lutheran Church, Newfolden, MN.

Burial will take place immediately after the service at Bjorsness Cemetery, Newfolden, MN.

Memorials will be given to Trails to Treatments, Westaker Free Lutheran Church online services, and North Valley Health Nurses.

Westaker Free Lutheran Church, Newfolden, MN, will Live Stream the service.