Neil Laverne Halvorson

Neil L. Halvorson, 77, Portland, ND, died Wednesday, April 13, 2022 in his home in Portland, ND with his family by his side. Neil Laverne Halvorson was born to Halvor and Evelyn (Aasen) Halvorson on December 15, 1944, in Sharon, ND. He attended school in Sharon where he graduated high school in 1962. He attended Mayville State University in Mayville, ND and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Education in 1971. While attending a walk for hunger in Portland, ND he met Gail, whom he later married on May 30, 1971. They made their home in Portland, ND together for over 50 years. During that time, they had their children: Amber, born January 2, 1976 and Brian on December 27, 1977. After college, Neil worked as Manager of the Credit Union. In 1993, he bought Viking Insurance and Realty, where for the last twelve years, he and Brian owned and operated the business together. He loved his community and enjoyed being Mayor of Portland for many years. Neil loved life and time with his friends and family. He had fond memories of his softball days, enjoyed playing cards, golfing and spending time with his grandkids. He also loved the farm life. For over 30 years, he worked on the Hefta farm running the combine. It brought such joy to Neil when the grandkids would come ride with him. Neil was a member of the Masons and served as president of Bruflat Church council and Portland Civic Association for many years. He was also a member of the Portland Commercial Club and honorary member of the Portland Volunteer Fire Department. Neil is survived by his wife: Gail Halvorson of Portland, ND; daughter: Amber (Lenny) Halvorson of Harrisburg, SD; son: Brian (Emily) Halvorson of Mayville, ND; grandkids: Addison and Evan Steinberg of Harrisburg, SD, Jack, Charlie and Teddy Halvorson of Mayville, ND; sister: Jerlyn (Vernon) Wright of Mt. Vernon, WA; brother-in-law: Robert (Nancy) Heskin of Devils Lake, ND; sister-in-law: Linda Ingebretson of Mayville, ND and Lois Hofstrand of Detroit Lakes, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Neil in death are his parents: Halvor and Evelyn Halvorson; brothers: Norris, Duane and Loren Halvorson; sisters: Darlene Ruud, Kathryn Starr and Myrna Starr. Visitation: Will be 5–7 PM on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 with a 6:30 PM Public Prayer Service followed by the Goose River Lodge #19 Masonic Service at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND and will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. Funeral Service: Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at Bruflat Lutheran Church in Portland, ND. Burial: Will be in the Bruflat Cemetery in Portland, ND.