William "Bill" Stafford Valtinson

William S. ‘Bill’ Valtinson, age 89, died peacefully on Thursday, September 2, at Heritage Living Center in Park Rapids. Bill was born in Deer River, MN, to Alfred and Elvie Valtinson. He attended the Jessie Lake Country School near his home. He went on to attend high school in Deer River, MN, and graduated with the class of 1951. In 1953, Bill enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served his country in the Fifth Army Special Services until his honorable discharge in December of 1956. On May 9, 1955, Bill was united in marriage to Wanda Claflin. This marriage was blessed with three children: Connie, Kathy, and Bill. Throughout his adult life, Bill has been actively involved in community service groups. He’s had a variety of professions. In 1968, Bill ventured to Grants Pass, Oregon, with his family where he volunteered with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Department which led to his career in law enforcement that spanned many years. In 1988, his family returned back to MN. In that same year, while celebrating their 33rd wedding anniversary, Wanda passed away peacefully in her sleep. After a number of years, Bill was married to Carol Scheerer on March 12, 1993 in Park Rapids, MN. He was a long time member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Park Rapids. Bill was a lifetime member of the Otto Hendrickson American Legion Post #212 in Park Rapids where he served in a number of elected offices. Bill loved the out of doors; especially when he could be hunting and fishing. He enjoyed feeding the birds that graced their property. He took pride in caring for their yard and home. Bill will lovingly be remembered by his three children: Connie Valtinson Ingram of Bemidji, MN; Kathy (Jon) Vallee of Magna, UT; and Bill (Darlene) Valtinson II of Eugene, Oregon; two step-daughters: Val (Charlie) Christopherson of Alexandria, MN; and Jan (Brian) Moynihan of Eagan, MN; twelve grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and ten great grandchildren; one sister: Barbara Monson of Washington; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Wanda; his parents; five brothers; four sisters; and his second wife, Carol. In lieu of flowers, family asks that memorials be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice. A special thanks to the staff at Heritage Manor and Cottage for their kindness and support of Bill. Our hearts will always carry Bill’s memory. This is not goodbye, but rather a so long for now.