Howard James Van Moorlehem was born on April 25, 1925, in Huron, SD, to Gus and Marie (Bogard) Van Moorlehem. He was the youngest of fourteen children. Howard was baptized at St. Martin Catholic Church in Huron. When he was 12, he moved with his family to a farm north of Minneota. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in April of 1944 and was later transferred to the U.S. Marines. Howard and five of his brothers served during World War II. After his discharge, he returned to farm north of Minneota. On May 7, 1949, he was united in marriage to Hulda Nelson at St. Edward Catholic Church in Minneota. The couple moved to Minneota in 1993, however Howard continued to help his son and grandson farm until 2012. He was passionate about farming. He grain farmed and raised hogs. His favorite time of year was planting season, he always was one of the first farmers to start planting. He did the drilling of wheat until he was in his early 80’s. Howard also enjoyed playing cards and getting together with his brothers and sisters. His favorite time was time spent with his family. He enjoyed fishing and taking his children to participate in horse shows in his younger years.
Howard died on Thursday, February 20, 2014, at Avera Morningside Heights Care Center in Marshall. He is survived by his wife, Hulda, of Minneota, children Donna (and Doug) Jelen of Porter, Janet Van Moorlehem of Marshall, Roger (and Bonnie) Van Moorlehem of Minneota, wonderful grandchildren Jon and Sara (and her fiancé Kurt), siblings Helen Bekken of Minnetonka, Alice Hargar of Sacramento, CA, Arthur Van Moorlehem of Marshall, Elmer (and Betty) Van Moorlehem of Canby, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Paul, Clara, Emma, Marie, Albert “Pat,†Walt, George, John and Ralph.
Howard was always one of the first to help in any way that he could. He was generous with his time and money. He never wanted to be compensated or even be acknowledged for his help. He received great personal satisfaction in just being able to help.
Howard liked to tease and had a great sense of humor. When he looked in a mirror he liked to self proclaim “Who’s the Eighth Wonder of the Worldâ€. And now, after his death, his family would have to answer “Dad†to that question.
