Harlen Guse

Harlen Frank Guse was born September 5, 1942 in Burtrum, Minnesota. He was one of 9 children born to Wilbert H. Guse, Sr. and Minnie (Sabart) Guse. His childhood years were spent on the family farm 11 miles southwest of Eagle Bend. He received his diploma from Eagle Bend High School and proceeded to enlist in the US Navy. While in the Navy, he served on the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War. Upon return from his tour of duty, he married Beverly Ann Anderson on August 12, 1967. The couple resided in Deltona, Florida where he was stationed at Sanford Naval Station. After a brief tour in the Mediterranean, he was honorably discharged and the couple moved to Minneapolis. In 1969, Harlen and Bev welcomed Kimberley Ann to the family and shortly thereafter moved back to the family farm in Eagle Bend where he helped his dad farm and also drove truck. In 1974, Harlen began driving gravel truck for Starry Construction in Long Prairie and in 1976, Harlen, Bev and Kim welcomed William Frank to the family. They continued to live on the farm until 1984 when they moved into their home in Eagle Bend. In 1992, Harlen became the Veteran's Service Officer for Todd County, a position he held until his death. Harlen was active in the VFW for which he was the 6th District Commander from 1987-1988 and served as Commander, Adjutant and Quartermaster for post 6318 in Eagle Bend. Through the years, he was also a member of the Burleene Town Board, Immanuel Lutheran Church Board and the Eagle Bend City Council, serving as Mayor for 8 years. Harlen served as a Fire Warden for the area for nearly 30 years and was on the board for the selective service for more than 10 years. Other organizations with which he was involved include the National Rifle Association and the American Legion. Harlen was preceded in death by his parents Wilbert, Sr. and Minnie; brothers Wilbert Guse, Jr., Richard Guse and Norman Guse; and sister Walda (Guse) Steuck. He is survived by his wife Beverly; children Kimberley and William; granddaughter McKlayla; sisters Shirley (Guse) Johnson and Elaine (Guse) Asmus; brothers Willard Guse and Gary Guse, Sr. and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at the Faith Lutheran Church with Reverend Al Jeske and Vicar Duston Anderson of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Pallbearers are Duane Guse, Dan Hederman, Tom Guse, John Guse, Rich Hennen, Donald Guse, Russell Johnson, Gary Guse, Jr., Jim Hederman, Jim Theusch, Rod Lawin and Bill Robbins. Honorary pallbearers are Henry Ahrens, Woodrow Peery Dennis Beach, Bob Klassen, Herb Froelich, Kevin Hess, Gary Johnson, Marlyn Hagadorn and Gary Blombeck. Interment will be held at the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery Immediately following the services. Known for his quick wit and love of a good joke, Harlen will be remembered as much for his love of a good card game or day of fishing as for his devotion to his family, church, job and country. Harlen will be sorely missed by all that knew him.

Harlen Guse

September 5, 1942 - June 8, 2004