Anniversary!

     June 6, 1964, Joanne Elizabeth Hanson and Allan Robert Negstad were married at First Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls, SD. Pastor Marcus Gravdal presided and Joanne's father, The Rev. Dr. Oscar C Hanson gave the homily. Mary Hanson was made of honor and David Negstad was the best man. The Agustana College Choir sang. The reception was in the church basement.

   There was no opportunity for honey moon. Joanne had a provisional appointment as a counselor in the St. Louis Park, MN, High School. The provision was that she get the one counseling course she lacked for licensing in MN. That course was available in summer school at the University of SD, Vermillion. The first day of class was June 8, and, as you know Joanne, she wasn't about to miss that and start late. 

    That began 53 years of marriage. It ended on April 12, 2018, with Joanne's death. Anniversaries such as this make the presence of absence especially poignant.  Certainly I'm blessed with a very good life in her absence, yet it's life in the land of grief. Frequently I think how happy she would be in the Old Folks Home.  The OFH is filled with interesting persons that she'd love to meet. It has been the relationships; family and friends that have carried me through. Yes, I am blessed.

Takk for alt,

Al

      Joanne with her sister, brother and the three Norwegian men who came for our 50th celebration.

                             Joanne posing with her wedding dress on our 50th celebration.