"Skip" Lohse, 63, of Fergus Falls, died Saturday, March 28, 2009, at his home.

He was born May 18, 1945, in Fergus Falls, to Lester and Edna (Moseng) Lohse. He was baptized June 27, 1945, and confirmed Sept. 13, 1959, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ashby by the Rev. Johannes Ringstad. He grew up in Ashby and Elbow Lake, graduating from Ashby High School in 1963.

In high school he played nine man football and the team went to state. Skip joined the U.S. Navy in August of 1963. He started in Submarine School, then went to Destroyers as an engine man, retiring 30 years later as a Senior Chief (E8).

On Feb. 6, 1987, he was married to Raeleen Halvorson at Zion Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls by the Rev. Armstrong. Skip worked for Otter Tail Power Company, starting as a lineman, and then worked with the Fleet Service Center, for 30 years, retiring on Nov. 1, 2006.

He was a life member of the VFW in Fergus Falls and served as Commander from 1996-97. He was also a member of Ashby American Legion Post 357 and was a volunteer with the Fergus Falls Fire Department for 10 years. He was an IBEW Union Member and a strong activate of buy American.

He enjoyed playing cards, socializing with family and friends and golfing. Skip launched his son Todd’s career in stock car racing at Wee Town which led to Todd’s current involvement with NASCAR. He was co-founder of "Snob Hill." Skip and Rae were on Bob’s Tavern Dart League for 10 years. He was a son, husband, father, grandfather, soldier, American patriot and a friend to all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Raeleen; sons, Todd Lohse of Charlotte, N.C., and Timothy Lohse of Chicago, Ill; daughters, Kristi Lohse of Chicago, Ill. and Kori Eastman of Prior Lake, Minn.; eight grandchildren: Kadie, Amanda, Taylor, Haley, Alana, Riley, Emily and Tyler; a brother, Dwight (Bonnie) Lohse of Clinton, Iowa; and his only nephew "son," Trevor Lysne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Edna Lohse.

Visitation: One hour prior to the service

Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday at Glende-Nilson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls

Clergy: Rev. Marv Abrahamson

Burial: Pelican Lake Cemetery, Ashby, with military rites by VFW Post 612 of Fergus Falls

Funeral home: Glende-Nilson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls

Condolences to: www.glendenilson.com