Galen Ellsworth Satrom

Galen "Gale" E. Satrom, 100, died on Sunday, February 12, 2012 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks. Gale was born January 19, 1912, in Sherwood, ND, the son of Ludvig & Hannah (Chilstad) Satrom. When Gale was five, the family moved to Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. At age 16, Gale began a four-year stint as an engineering surveyor for the Canadian Pacific Railway. During the depths of the Great Depression, he returned to ND, where he began work as a glazier and salesman for the Minot branch of the Fargo Glass and Paint. His ability was soon evident to company management and he was promoted to the Fargo store in 1935. In 1936, Gale met Virginia Schonberg. They were married in 1937, and moved to Grand Forks and founded the Grand Forks Glass & Paint Co. They began their partnership of lifelong accomplishments together. Gale and Virginia were founding members of the GF Curling Club, 49'ers Dance Club and the Symphony Ball. Gale has been presiding officer of many organizations including the "Y" Family Center, GF Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, Salvation Army and was director of the National Paint & Wall Covering Assn. He also served on the board of directors of the Valley Bank and First Federal Savings and Loan Association and Fargo Glass & Paint. Gale had been very involved in the growth and development of Grand Forks and the region. He had worked to make Grand Forks the successful business community it is today. Gale and Virginia made the most of life. They made their home in Grand Forks, Detroit Lakes, and Marco Island, FL. They would travel worldwide, and enjoyed social activities and community events. They also enjoyed spending time with their family and friends. His hobbies included fishing, upland game hunting, water & alpine skiing, curling and many others. Gale was successful in all aspects of his business and family life. To sum it up, Gale was a "Gentleman's Gentleman". Gale is survived by his son, John of Grand Forks; daughter, Gay Nunn of Winnipeg, Manitoba; grandchildren, John P. Nunn, Nancy S. Carriere, Megan E. Gilholly and Timothy A. Satrom and 8 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; brothers, Robert, Merle and Kenneth Satrom. **Memorial Contributions may be directed to Satrom Family Foundation or a charity of your choice. FUNERAL SERVICES: 12:00 p.m. Friday, February 17, 2012, at 4000 Valley Square Wheatland Terrace 4002 24th Ave. S. in Grand Forks. VISITATION: One hour prior to the service at 4000 Valley Square. INTERMENT: Memorial Park Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.