Obituary: Haakon Ekren, Jr.

Haakon Ekren, Jr.

Haakon "Buffa" Ekren, age 88, of Carrington, N.D., formerly of Kensal, N.D., died Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Golden Acres Manor, Carrington.

His visitation was Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., all at Evans Funeral Home, Carrington.

Buffa's funeral service was held Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., at the United Methodist Church, Kensal, N.D.

His burial was at the Kensal Cemetery, Kensal, N.D., with Pastor Jeanne Sortland officiating. Music was by Roger, Daniel, and Ross Florhaug. Songs were "Amazing Grace," " Buffa's Farm," " Hallelujah," and "Go Rest High On That Mountain."

Pallbearers were Dylan Ekren, Mitch Ekren, Dustin Ekren, Andrew Ekren, Darren Ekren, Jordan Smith, Trent Ekren and Chad Truemer.

Haakon M. Ekren, Jr., was born on March 19, 1936, the son of Haakon and Maybelle (Nelson) Ekren. He grew up on the family farm south of Kensal, N.D., and graduated from Kensal High School.

On June 23, 1955, Buffa married Marlene K. Ferguson at Trinity Lutheran Church in Carrington, N.D.

Buffa and Marlene farmed most of their lives, west of Kensal. In 2017, they retired from farming and moved to Carrington, N.D.

Buffa enjoyed his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved his family, farming, raising cattle, visiting with his friends, and collecting antiques. He always had a story to tell, and his quick wit got him out of a speeding ticket more than once! His entrepreneurial spirit began at a young age. Throughout his life, he sold golf carts and trailers, brokered many "deals," and even invented the "Ranchman" trailers with his brother.

Buffa was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, a member of the school board, as well as a census taker for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Milton; sisters, Norma Lovell and Annie Fischer and wife, Marlene.

He is survived by his three sons, Dennis (Becky) Ekren of Lakewood, Colo., Dean (Brenda) Ekren of Kensal, N.D., and Kelly (Dana) Ekren of Kensal, N.D.; three daughters, Mamie Ekren of Fargo, N.D., Joni (Bryon) Smith of Fargo, N.D., and Cassie (Cory) Smith of Carrington, N.D.; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Arrangements by Evans Funeral Home, Carrington and New Rockford, N.D.