Arlo Westerlind

  Arlo M. “Wes” Westerlind, 81, Grand Forks, ND, died Wednesday, March 8, 2017 in Altru Hospital of Grand Forks. Arlo was born January 27, 1936 in Mercer, ND, the son of Victor and Albena (Boshee) Westerlind. He was raised and graduated from high school at Mercer. He helped on his parent’s farm until he entered the U.S. Army in 1959. He served in Korea during peacetime. After his discharge from the military, he returned to Mercer. He later began working construction near Minot, ND, Garrison, ND and Grand Forks. Arlo married Cheryl Holien on February 19, 1971 in Crookston, MN. They lived in Minot and Rugby, ND before returning to Grand Forks in 1974. Arlo worked as a crane operator for Concrete Inc. and later for Florian and Sons until his retirement. Arlo was an avid gardener, enjoyed puzzles, audio books and computer activities. He was also a fan of UND Hockey, Twins baseball and loved his dog, Bootsy. Arlo is survived by his brother, Franklin Westerlind; sister, Linnea Milligan; sister-in-law, Dona (Vern) Kary, Grand Forks; numerous nieces and nephews including, David Kary, Grand Forks, Diane (Brad) Ruesing, San Antonio, TX and Deeann Semmel, Minneapolis, MN. Arlo is preceded in death by his wife, Cheryl (in 2004); and by siblings, Helga Semmel, Della Brumming, Esther Schock, Gena Long and Palmer Westerlind. Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Monday, March 13, 2017 in Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the funeral home. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery of Grand Forks, ND in the spring. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion, The Veterans of Foreign wars and the North Dakota Army National Guard.