Bernard Ohlsen 1929-2024

Bernard D. Ohlsen, 94, of Whiting, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024, at The Pines in Holton.

He was born Oct. 17, 1929 in Whiting, the son of Jesse and Lucy (Richelson) Ohlsen.

Bernard graduated from Whiting High School in 1947. He was a lifelong farmer and stockman. He started Ohlsen Construction Company in the late 1950s, and his family continues the business today.

Bernard proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He also served in the National Guard in Horton.

He married Betty L. Keeler on Feb. 2, 1952, in Horton. She preceded him in death on Jan. 8, 2012, after nearly 60 years of marriage. Bernard is also preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Lucy Ohlsen; two sons, Dean and Eric Ohlsen; four sisters, Beulah Snavely, Lorraine Wenger, Irene Higby and Kathlene Wilber; and a brother, Leonard Ohlsen.

Survivors include a daughter, Nancy Blum (Mark) of Whiting; two daughters-in-law, Karen Ohlsen of Soldier and Jenny Ohlsen of Whiting; four grandchildren, Heath, Steven, Courtney and Jessica; and two great-grandchildren, Eli and Macey.

Graveside services with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 15 at Springhill Cemetery in Whiting. Bernard will lie in state at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, beginning Wednesday afternoon until 6 p.m. and all day Thursday.

Memorials may be given to The Pines, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com 

(PAID OBITUARY)