Omer Michaelson

Omer Michaelson was born in 1905 and raised in Dover Township, Griggs County.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole T. Michaelson, lived and farmed there most of their lives.

Omer married Myrtle Heyerdahl in 1924.  Their first home was in Moorhead, Minnesota, where Omer was employed by the Fairmont Creamery.  In the spring of 1927 they moved to Dover Township where he farmed with his father at first and later on his own.  He farmed in Dover 48 years except for 2 years spent at Buffalo, North Dakota In the spring of 1946 they bought the former John Miklethun farm in Dover which they still operate with a son, James, also raising registered Hereford cattle.

There are four sons and one daughter in the Omer Michaelson family: 

  1. James at Wimbledon on the farm
  2. Gordon at Lake Park, Minnesota
  3. Harlyn (Bud) at Bronson, Missouri
  4. Betty at Fergus Falls, Minnesota
  5. and Merle at Wimbledon.  

All were active in school, church and 4-H. Omer was the first 4-H leader in Dover, and James was also a leader for many years.  Merle is a 4-H leader in Stutsman County where they live.

Omer served as a Township officer for 30 years, as clerk ans supervisor.  He also served as president of the North Dakota, Hereford Association and served on the ASC board.  He also held offices on the school board and the Eidfjord Lutheran church of which they have been life long members.  In 1974 they built a home in Valley City where they spend winter months.

  1. JAMES is on the home place.  He farms and raises registered Hereford cattle.  
  2. Gordon married Marian Thompson and is employed by Cennex at Lake Park, Minnesota.  They have four sons and two daughters, Rolland, Gene, Marlene, Peggy, Richard and Robert.  
  3. Harlyn married Marlys Mutchler and lives in Bronson, Missouri, where they operate a helicopter service.  They have three sons and one daughter, Joel, Craig, Cynthia and Scott.  
  4. Betty married Paul Larson who is an instructor at Fergus Falls Junior College.  They have two daughters, and one son.  Naomi, Tom and Rebecca Jo.
  5. Merle married Joyce Cresap and live near Wimbledon.  They farm and also raise Registered Hereford cattle.  They have three daughters and two sons, Amy, Dean, Carmen, Barry and Beth. 

Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 Page 287