Clifford Lunke

Clifford Myron Lunke was born on March 28, 1921 in Thief River Falls, MN to Hilmer and Carrie (Anderson) Lunke. He graduated from Thief River Falls High School and then attended Bemidji State College where he received a pilot license. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and served for three years during WW II. Cliff was united in marriage to Gudrun (Goodie) Solheim in February of 1942 in Glendale, CA. Cliff worked at Lockheed Aircraft for five years as a foreman of final assembly. The couple moved back to Thief River Falls in 1946 and Cliff became co-owner of a John Deere retail dealership. In 1956 Cliff sold his share of the dealership and went into a series of management positions with John Deere. He retired in 1984 from John Deere after 40 years of a career he thoroughly enjoyed. In 1985, the couple moved to Alexandria for their retirement years. Cliff enjoyed staying busy with volunteering with church, Kiwanis (held the office of Lieutenant Governor), the Senior Center (former past president), and member of the Golden K?s. He also enjoyed fishing, dancing and reading. Cliff enjoyed life and the people he became in contact with, and most importantly Cliff?s two sons were a great joy to him. Cliff died on Monday, March 19, 2012 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria at the age of 90. He is survived by his two sons, Scott of Gettysburg, SD and Gene of Bertha, MN; brother, Don (Joyce) Lunke of Park Rapids, and Harley Lunke of Laguna Woods, CA; and sister, Joyce (Herb) Claffy of Milaca; many nieces and nephews; and care giver Diana Anderson of Alexandria. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hilmer and Carrie; and wife, Goodie. A funeral service was held on Friday, March 23, 2012 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Reverend Marilee Bergerson officiating. Music was provided by organist, Randy Morken. Interment was in Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria. Military Honors were provided by the Alexandria American Legion Post 87, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 936 and the Minnesota National Honor Guard. Casket bearers were Greg Vedders, Phil Vedders, Mark Claffy, Ralph Biniek, Brent Lunke, Wayne Lunke, and Ron Lunke. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.