David Emanuel Chilstrom

David E. Chilstrom, age 78, of Litchfield died on Sunday, November 13, 2011, at Ecumen of Litchfield. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 19, 2011, at the First Lutheran Church in Litchfield. Friends may greet the family at 10:00 at the church. Interment will be in the Lake Ripley Cemetery. Born on November 11, 1933, David was the sixth child of Walfred and Ruth Chilstrom. Because of complications at the time of his birth he was baptized immediately and became a member of Beckville Lutheran Church, rural Litchfield. When the family moved to the city of Litchfield he became part of First Lutheran Church and has been a faithful member all of his life. Because his parents were the church custodians, David assisted them for many years. He was also an important member of the Sunday school staff, going from room to room to receive the Sunday offerings from the children. David attended Litchfield Elementary Schools, the State School at Owatonna, and had a private tutor for several years. He was employed for more than 25 years by the Litchfield Produce/Jennie-O Foods. He then joined the custodial staff at Augustana Homes (Ecumen). He became a close friend to many of the residents and staff at Immanuel, Bethany, Gloria Dei and Emmaus. They enjoyed his companionship and good humor. They were part of his family. After retirement he remained a resident at Gloria Dei and volunteered his time in assisting the kitchen staff. He especially enjoyed assembling picture puzzles with other residents. Among other qualities, Dave was known for his deep faith and cheerfulness. He was a favorite uncle to his nineteen nephews and nieces and their families. David is survived by seven siblings: Adeline Christenson, New Brighton, MN; Lorraine Juul, Evansville, MN; Winnifred Christenson, Robbinsdale, MN; Virginia Francis, Pickens, SC; Herbert (Corinne) Chilstrom, St. Peter, MN; Martha (Chuck) Anderson, Ashby, MN; and Janet (Fred) Sickert. West Linn, OR. He is also survived by 18 nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by nephew Andrew John Chilstrom, grand niece Ashlie Jean Anderson and four brothers-in-law: Earle Christenson, Richard Juul, Clyde Christenson and William Francis. The family prefers that memorials be designated for: Ecumen Hospice of Litchfield, First Lutheran Church of Litchfield or Luther Seminary, St. Paul. Previous Events Visitation Saturday, November 19, 2011 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM First Evangelical Lutheran Church 703 Sibley Avenue S Litchfield, MN 55355 Visitation Saturday, November 19, 2011 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM First Lutheran Church 703 South Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 Visitation Saturday, November 19, 2011 2:00 PM Riplely Cemetery 316 Sibley Avenue South Litchfield, MN 55355