Donald Tolk

Donald Henry Tolk was born June 30, 1934 to Henry and Lottie (Voight) Tolk on a farm in Ward Township near Ward, South Dakota. He was baptized September 17, 1934 at Ward. In early childhood, Donald and his family farmed in various communities. He grew up in Ruthton, Minnesota and was confirmed at Aetna Lutheran Church of rural Ruthton. He attended school through the ninth grade. Following his education, he began working in construction. On June 16, 1957 Donald married Eleanor Lau at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Madison, Minnesota. Their union was blessed with one son, Dale, and 56 years of marriage. The couple made their home on a farm in Marshfield Township north of Tyler, Minnesota. Don worked construction for McLaughlin & Schultz of Marshall, Minnesota; for his brother, Ardeen Tolk Graveling; and for Northern Border Pipeline operating the tie down machine on “Sonny’s Screw Crew.” In addition to construction, the family was active in raising hogs. Don recently became a resident of United Living Community in Brookings, South Dakota for physical therapy. There, on Monday, June 8, 2015, Donald died just three weeks before his 81st birthday.

Don was a member of Danebod Lutheran Church. He was also a member of the Operating Engineers Union. He enjoyed farming, polka music, welding, bird watching, and spending time with his family.

Don is lovingly remembered by his wife, Eleanor, of Tyler, Minnesota; his son, Dale (and Donna) Tolk of Brookings, South Dakota; his sister, Shirley (and Arlen) Reese of Richland, Washington; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Ardeen Tolk.

Blessed be his memory.