68, was born August 24, 1941 and died February 21, 2010 at his home in Ellsworth surrounded by his family after a 2 ½ year battle with cancer. 

I leave my wife, Myrna (Castleberg) of 46 years and my beloved children:  Tasha (Chris) Olson and children Chris Jr. and Jackie of Grantsburg, Jessica (Ryan) Voigt and precious Ruger and Viola of Anchorage, my son Jennings Buri of Ellsworth; sister Marci Johnson of Renton, WA, and many nieces and nephews of  the Dallas, Portland and Seattle areas.  My parents William and Virginia, sister Beverly and husband Jimmy, and Myrna’s parents Martin and Jessie have gone before me.

I have had a good life and am blessed that the Lord revealed His “purpose for me”.  Over the years I lived in WI, TN, and WA.  Myrna and I moved to our home in Ellsworth in 1976 after I graduated from the University of WI at River Falls.  I began teaching with the Pepin School district in 1976 finding my niche and liking every moment of it until illness forced me to retire early.   Locally, I enjoyed serving with the Ellsworth Ambulance service and playing with my band the “Country Gentlemen” with my good friends Mike, Larry, Duane and Tim.  A recent highlight has been Myrna and my involvement in Global Educators.  This opportunity brought us to work in Fiji; a beloved second home, place, and people.  I also cherish my Nepalese friends that were established through our work and travels.  My home has been my refuge and I sincerely liked enjoying it with others.   My life was complete with watching my children and their families grow, working in the gardens, reading on the porch, playing the piano and my guitar, watching the history channel and making frequent trips to the local library.  I spent my summers working on my tractor on our bluff land overlooking Nelson, WI. 

I have asked my family that there be no funeral or flowers.  I would like any gifts in memorial to be given to my family as they continue the mission projects in Fiji and Nepal.  You have shown your love and mercy to me in my living and struggling.   My community, neighbors, friends and church family were of great value to me.

Hill Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Ellsworth is assisting the family with arrangements.