Louie was born in Fairmont, Minnesota.  He was originally supposed to be named Walter Harold, but his father decided to name him after President Wilson instead.  However, his grandfather decided that didn't fit him, and called him "Louie," which stuck with him for the rest of his life.  Louie served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the Quartermaster Corps in Panama.  It was during this time that he met  his future wife through the mail.   When he went home on leave, he met  her for the first time, and they were married three days later.  That union lasted almost 54 years until his death in 1997.   During his lifetime, Louie worked for a newspaper; as a city maintenance worker; taught printing; -- and most importantly, as my grandfather.  Although I doubt he would have called that last job work . . . .

1988

1991

Panama, 1943

Lotte was born in Frederikshavn, Denmark and emigrated to the United States with her parents (Steffen & Alma) and older sister (anne) in 1924.   Lotte graduated from Burley High School in 1941 and earned a degree in Education from Albion State College in 1941.   She was naturalized the same year.  She worked as a teacher and a desk clerk for a dry cleaners;  and most importantly, as my grandmother (although she definitely would not call that work!)  She married Louie (see above) in 1943, and remained married to him until his death in 1997.  She was an avid quilter and made many hand-appliquéd and hand-quilted gifts for family & friends.

Passport Photo with Alma (mother), Anne (sister), and Lotte

1988

1986

1988