Melvin Oftedahl, 85, and JoAnn Oftedahl, 81

Melvin and JoAnn Oftedahl celebrated 63 years of devotion to each other on Aug. 22, 2021. They lived a life of love, service and hard work that was centered on family and Christian values. They passed away 12 days apart, Melvin on Nov. 17, 2021, and JoAnn on Nov. 29, 2021, both from breathing complications due to covid.

Melvin Leonard was the first child born to Oscar and Edna Oftedahl on Oct. 4, 1936, in Jefferson, Iowa.

His family moved to Kalispell in 1947 where they settled near Foys Lake. Melvin spent his life working with his father, son, and other family members on the ranch, milling lumber and selling Christmas trees in North Dakota and Arizona. He and his son Leonard were logging partners as Oftedahl Logging for 45 years, and he fought wildland fires until he was in his 70s. Melvin loved to play the accordion and waltz with his wife. He loved sledding and spontaneous adventures with his kids and grandkids. He had three brothers (one died at birth) and four sisters, Harold (John), Jerry, Joan, Donna, Dianne and Connie.

JoAnn Geraldine Riedinger was the second child born to Arthur and Jane Riedinger on July 14, 1940, in Minneapolis. Her family moved to the Flathead Valley in 1948. JoAnn was a wonderful wife, mother, homemaker, 4-H leader, and friend to all. Among her many talents, she was gifted at sewing, baking, knitting, art, photography, gardening, canning, and had a special gift with children. She loved and welcomed all who entered her home and made everyone feel special. JoAnn served as an election judge for many years and worked at Gardner Auction for 20 years. She had two sisters, Patricia “Pat” and Bonnie, and three brothers, Arthur “Art,” Richard and Michael.

Melvin and JoAnn met through a mutual friend while attending Flathead County High and married in 1958. They had three children, Leonard (1958), Karen (1959) and Susan (1962). In 1964 they embarked on an 18-month adventure to Australia, where Melvin worked various jobs as they moved around. They returned to Kalispell in 1966 and joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with a desire to raise their family with a strong moral base and Christian principles. It has blessed their life and the lives of their posterity. They have 12 grandchildren and will have 18 great-grandchildren by Christmas.

Melvin is survived by brother Jerry (Vicki) Oftedahl, and sisters Joan (Richard) McAdams, Donna (Jack) Paulsen, and Dianne Oftedahl. He was preceded in death by brother Harold and sister Connie.

JoAnn is survived by sister Pat Swanberg, sister-in-law Ardy Riedinger and brothers Art (Mary), and Mike Riedinger. She was preceded in death by brother-in-law Ted Swanberg, brother Richard, sister-in-law Melanie and sister Bonnie.

Together they are survived by their children, Leonard Oftedahl, Karen (Doug) Thurston and Susan (Mark) Robison, 12 grandchildren (seven with spouses) and 16 great-grandchildren. They were preceded in death by great-granddaughter Mary Oftedahl.

They are also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and their families.

All were profoundly loved!

Memorial services will be Monday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1380 Whitefish Stage, Kalispell. Interment will be at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.

Johnson-Gloschat funeral home is caring for Melvin and JoAnn and their family.