Sam Martinson

Selmer L. "Sam" Martinson, 76, Grand Forks, ND went to his heavenly home on Saturday, January 29, 2011 with his family by his side at Altru Hospital of Grand Forks. Sam was born on July 18, 1934 the son of Siguard and Inga Martinson of Churches Ferry, ND where he was educated and played his sport of basketball. He served with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. On October 9, 1954, Sam was united in marriage to Bernice E. Bolken of Tolna, ND. They lived in Devils Lake, ND where Sam was a member of the Jaycees and a volunteer fire fighter as well as employed by Otter Tail Power Company. He was transferred to Garrison, ND and later the general office in Fergus Falls, MN. In 1969, he was one of the founders and investors of Northland Homes of Grand Forks. He was also one of the original founders and investors of Country Kitchen Restaurants in Sheridan, WY and Williston, ND. He was a realtor in Grand Forks the last decade of his employment. Sam was President of the UND Sioux Boosters from 1991-1992. He served on the Sioux Booster Board of Directors from 1992-1993. He was also an active member of Sharon Lutheran Church of Grand Forks where he was Chairman of the Congregation and President of Sharon Lutheran Church Council. Sam also held many other church affiliated offices. He served on the Grand Forks City Council from 1998 - 2002. He was President of Options for independent living, East Grand Forks, MN until recent. Sam was dearly loved and will be missed. Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Bernice; daughters, Joni Gilbertson and Tammy (David) Bauduin, both of Grand Forks; grandchildren, Amy Gilbertson, Grand Forks, Alan Gilbertson, Richfield, MN, Matthew Bauduin, Grand Forks and Christian Bauduin, Grand Forks. Sam is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Mildred Tollefson and Gladyce Pedersen.