Ernest Bakken age 96 of Walnut Grove passed away Thursday, June 12, 2014 at Luther Haven Nursing Home in Montevideo.  Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 16 at English Lutheran Church in Walnut Grove.  Visitation is one hour prior to services at the church.  Burial is in St. Olaf Lutheran Cemetery.  Stephens Funeral Service – Walnut Grove Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ernest Clifford Bakken was born August 5, 1917 on the family farm in Ann Township, near Walnut Grove, to Alfred and Minnie (Nordsiden) Bakken.  He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith.  On June 29, 1944 he married Elisabeth Ness at Old Westbrook Church.  Ernie farmed in Ann Township with his brother Floyd.  Ernie and Elisabeth later owned and operated Bakken Grain & Feed for several years.  Ernie was a faithful Christian all his life.

Ernie is survived by his sons Jim (Maren) Bakken of Dawson and Luther (Karen) Bakken of Louisville, KY; four grandchildren: Leigh (Dan) Borraga, Luke (Melissa) Bakken, Sara (Eric) Dolan, and Amy (Justin) Schlemmer; seven great grandchildren: Walt and Cate Bakken, Jack and Alex Borraga, Alli and Tommy Dolan, and Ethan Schlemmer; sister-in-law Fanchon Ness; and many other relatives and friends.  He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Elisabeth on November 25, 2010, infant son Rodger, and siblings Floyd Bakken, Irene Knudson, and Helen Schmid.