Wilfred Waisanen, age 93, passed up to his heavenly home on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019 in Moose Lake, Minnesota.  Wilfred was born on March 23, 1926 to Waino Henry and Beida Aliina Waisanen.  He was the 10 ^th of 11 children and he was the youngest of the 7 boys.  He was baptized and confirmed in the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church.  He grew up on the farm and graduated from Moose Lake High School in 1944.    He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters – Anna, Edna, Alma and 6 brothers – Art, John, baby Arnold, Edwin, Lauri, Einard.  Wilfred is survived by his one remaining sister, Vivian Ryden of Denver, Colorado, and numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

After graduation, Wilfred enlisted in the United States Navy for two years in 1946.  He worked up to Second Class Petty officer.  He had basic training in San Diego CA and electronics school in Illinois.  Then he went to aviation electronics school in Texas and had additional schooling for 4 months in CA.  His separation from the Navy came in Alameda CA in December 1948.  Wilfred then attended the University of Minnesota using the GI bill and completed a 4-year degree program in 3 years graduating with a degree in technical agriculture and forestry.

In 1953, Wilfred gave his heart to the Lord at Maple Lake Baptist Church at a bible conference sponsored by Northwestern Bible School.   He attended this school for 2 years.  He met some great friends and they did some traveling together working in Christian ministries attending many different churches and Wilfred always had a simple testimony to tell others about the Lord.

Wilfred took a job working with the US Government in Detroit, Michigan, working as a US Customs Inspector for many years.   Many of his vacations were spent traveling to Colorado and Canada to enjoy his passion for snow skiing.  Upon retirement, he moved back to Minnesota.  He always had a special talent for electronics, taking care of flowers and plants, and he loved gardening.  Wilfred loved his many nieces and nephews and their families that are now spread throughout the United States.  He even made a special trip driving himself to Alaska when he was in his 80s, to visit some of them.

Wilfred enjoyed and faithfully attended the West Side Church led by Pastor Gerry Gill.   His faith in Christ was an important part of his life, and his extended family is very thankful for his constant prayers and strong Christian witness.  To God Be the Glory!

Arrangements are by Hamlin-Kosloski Funeral Home in Moose Lake.  Private Burial Services with Military Honors will be in the Beaver Cemetery, Beaver Twp., Aitkin County, at a later date.