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Dwight Halvorson Obituary
HALVORSON, Dwight John
Died peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 21, 2009, surrounded by his family and favorite music, after a long battle with kidney cancer. Dwight was born on December 4, 1950, in Hibbing, Minn. He attended St. Thomas College in St. Paul, Minn., where he was a scratch golfer for the Tommies golf team. He received his degree from St. Thomas in 1973. Dwight always loved the West and moved with his wife to California in 1975. After working in several sales positions, Dwight started his own business, Dwight Halvorson Insurance Services, in 1987. In 1997 he created a managing general agency, Food Service Insurance Managers (FSIM). True to Dwight's spirit the company's primary focus is to help injured workers return to work. Those who had the privilege to know Dwight (a.k.a. Big Papa) will agree that he was not only the funniest and most generous person, but he was also an outstanding father, husband, friend and employer. He was particularly proud of his co-workers at FSIM and felt like they were part of his extended family. Dwight loved golf, hunting, fishing, sports and music. He was a talented guitarist, singer and songwriter. He loved to perform everything from country to folk to contemporary rock; songs his audience knew well. Dwight was larger than life and we feel that he earned his place with God at an earlier age because of the good he did on Earth. The footprint that Dwight has left behind is far too big to fade. Although he will be tremendously missed, he is loved with an everlasting love. Dwight is survived by his wife Bridget, three children Erin, Jeanne and Bobby his mother Donna, sister Roberta, brother Gary, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws who were all crazy about him. Services will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at SS. Peter and Paul Church in Rocklin, Calif. Reception following at the Flower Farm Inn in Loomis, Calif.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dwight Halvorson
Sponsored by bridget c. halvorson.
Eddy Grim
May 5, 2020
Watching a Bobby Dylan documentary tonight . It made me think of Dwight and Bridget again. Didn't know his life had ended. Wish I could have said goodbye. Great memories of St. Thomas College...traveling and wandering to Phoenix and ending up in Sacramento. Guitars always tuned up...laughing and loving life's adventures. So sad to see an old friend go. Bridget, email me. Tell me what happened to Dwight.
October 23, 2010
Our deepest regrets to the Halverson and
Connealy families, Don and Connie Lupo, Marty Please contact [email protected]
The entertainer
April 7, 2009
September 2004 - with the buffalo in Nebraska
April 7, 2009
Dwight, Bob and Gary
April 7, 2009
Alladin - just one of many Halloween inventions
April 5, 2009
Gary, Dwight, Marty and Jim
April 5, 2009
Vikings Fan
April 5, 2009
Fishing in Alaska
April 5, 2009
Chrstmas 2005 - at the beach in Carmel
April 5, 2009
Coach Dwight and the Hawks
April 5, 2009
Dwight and Grandma Ceil
April 5, 2009
Halvorsons in Hibbing
April 5, 2009
Dwight, Roberta and Donna September 2008
April 5, 2009
pheasant hunting in nebraska
April 5, 2009
guitar man
April 5, 2009
Ireland 2005
April 1, 2009
Christmas 2008
April 1, 2009
Bobby's graduation UCSB 2007
April 1, 2009
Lovin' it in Okoboji
April 1, 2009
February 26, 2009
Dear Bridget,Erin,Jeanne,and Bobby,
What a lovely service you had for Dwight on Saturday. I'm so happy to have known Dwight for 35 years and so sad that he is no longer with us here. He was a very true and generous friend.
Bridget, there are so many memories I have of you and Dwight. Here's one from the early years. It was the 1974 American Fidelity Christmas party in Upland. During the dinner we were all asked to introduce and tell something about ourselves. The intros were all pretty standard stuff. "What a great company blah, blah, blah." Dwight and I had shared an apartment for a short time before the party. When it was Dwight's turn to speak, he stands and says " I'm Dwight Halvorson and I'm married to Dick Daniels." Of course this got a hearty laugh. When it was my turn, I responded," I'm Dick Daniels and I'm Dwight Halvorson's better half." He brought out the best humor in all of us.
Finally, I recall a verse from an unknown author: "There is an old belief that on some distant shore, far from despair and grief, old friends shall meet once more." Until that day, I will very much miss you old friend.
With loving thoughts and prayers, Dick Daniels
Dawn, Michael, Jodi & Boone Elliott
February 19, 2009
Dear Bridget, Erin, Jeanne & Bobby,
We were shocked & so sad to hear about your loss of Dwight.
Since we lived right across the street from you for almost 14 years, I would have to agree he did have a tremendous presence. We heard much laughter - hard to believe that he has been quieted. Our thoughts are with you.
Jessica Hart
February 19, 2009
Dwight...A.K.A. POPÍ. You are an amazing person, full of energy and laughter. Everyone you meet falls in love with you! You have influenced me to be a better person! You´ve taught me not to sweat the small stuff in life, but rather live life for all that it´s worth. My favorite all time memory of you was during our soccer days. Erin, Jeanne and I would be laughing uncontrollably at your sideline coaching. While warming up on the soccer field, we would hear you before we would even see you with that loud vibrant voice of yours. I love not only how much you support your gorgeous children and wife, but also their friends too! You are a loving and caring father, husband, son and best friend. You must be so proud to have accomplished so much in your lifetime. I LOVE YOU and all the Halvorsons so very much!
Stephanie Foster
February 17, 2009
Dear Bridget, Jeanne, Erin and Bobby...I am truly saddened by the untimely passing of Dwight. He was passionate about is family, business, and life. I met all of you on the soccer fields where Jeanne and Lindsay played for Placer United. I always felt a connection with your family as we shared our thoughts about sports, relationships and what really mattered in life...we were on very similar pages. I was able to witness Dwight as a dedicated husband and father as we sat through many soccer games...however, I was very blessed to have also worked in his office where I really was able to see Dwight in action. He was always thoughtful and professional to me as he took the time to explain many of the reasons why he made the decisions he did. I learned a lot from him and I'lll never forget the green carnations that he made sure everyone in the office had on their desks on St Patrick's Day!
Dwight would be extremely proud of the courage, strength, and postive attitude that his family is showing during this difficult time. As I watch you 3 brave women work out at the gym, I'm in awe of your composure, peace and faith that you possess...signs that you are all a very loving and connected family. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers and Dwight will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Arlene & Tom Cardinal
February 17, 2009
Bridget, we are saddened to hear about Dwights passing. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Patty Faulk
February 17, 2009
Dear Bridget & family,
Just a quick note to express my sincere condolences in the loss of your husband. It sounded like you had a wonderful life with him. What a blessing.
May God be with you and yours....
Shelly Techar
February 16, 2009
To Dwight's family:
I send my condolences to all. Dwight was a life-long friend of my brother, Bill, and although I didn't see Dwight much throughout the years, I always appreciated his wit, good nature, and spirited laugh! May you find comfort in knowing that he touched many lives.
Mary-Louise Hayes
February 15, 2009
Words cannot express how sorry I am. Big Papa was an amazing guy & I am so glad he was a part of my life. There are sooooo many memories I have of his visits to "The House"...You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. xoxox
Ben Schaer
February 14, 2009
Bridget and family,
We always enjoyed Dwight's visits when he came here to go pheasant hunting. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ben and Barb Schaer
Elizabeth Pope
February 11, 2009
Bridget, Erin, Jeanne, Bobby,
Please accept my most sincere condolences on the loss of Dwight.
Dwight always had a kind and caring heart. The first time I met him he was so gracious, polite and very funny. He is your guardian angel watching over all of your family.
Here is a song that I wrote and wanted to share with all of you in memory of Dwight. It's titled Dancing With Grace.
We are dancing with grace
Let the sunshine into our hearts
Our eyes, ears are open with new life
We are dancing,
we are laughing with grace
Embrace journeys that seem so faraway...
We are dancing with grace
all the time...
We are dancing with grace
all the time...
Brave, compassion...
smiles, love...
Light up - with glee
Your turn is next up...
We are dancing,
We are laughing with grace...
embrace journeys
that seem so faraway...
Christine Hammond
February 9, 2009
Dear Halvorson and Connealy Families:
Although I have not seen Dwight in several years as our work circles diverged, I think of him often and grin. I cannot help it. He is one of the funniest and warmest people I have ever known. There are precious few people that can fill a room and lift a heart like Dwight. Hearing of his passing, the world is somehow diminished. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I cannot imagine the hole that must be left by a spirit so huge. Bless you.
Paul and Luanne Javorina
February 9, 2009
My dear Bridget, Erin, Jeanne and Bobby, we offer you our sincerest condolences on the loss of one of the greatest people I have ever known. Growing up together as closely as we did, Dwight was always the big brother we never had! His thoughtfulness, patience, generosity and sincere love for life, and people, has been an inspiration to many of us. His presence could fill a room, and I still feel that presence today. May it comfort you to know his most cherished things in his life were you, his family, and he clearly demonstrated that at all times. You all meant the world to him. I continue to feel his presence and influence to this day, which is a huge testament to the positive impact he had on everyone he came into contact with. May you also find comfort in that you are all in our thoughts and prayers, and we are right here beside you . Love, Paul, Luanne, Lynnae and Colleen
Cathy Tiemann
February 8, 2009
Bridget, Erin,Jeanne& Bobby,
Cathy & Denny want to thank You for allowing us in your home and to care for your wonderful Husband/Father. It was an honor. God Bless all of you in your time of need.
My your Angel be by your side always
Cathy & Denny
Paul Fisher
February 6, 2009
I will always remember the verbal, passionate conversations between Jeanne and Dwight during soccer matches, while Jeanne was playing. The love for her and his family showed in every match. A true SHARK
Terese Genecco
February 6, 2009
Bridget, you are one of the strongest women I have ever known but I am still relieved to know that you have the love and support of your dear friends, your three strong and beautiful children, and your wonderful family full of Connealys and Halvorsons. My very deepest sympathy is with you. Dwight has been my best friend (a thing he did so easily, so well, and for SO many) since the day he hired me to answer phones at his brand new agency (21 years ago) until today and forever. I have never known a more generous, loving, caring, compassionate, intelligent, creative, and talented soul than Dwight J. Halvorson and I never will. There is a definitive shift in the universe with his passing. Even people who didn't know him personally, feel the difference. But I know that somehow, he will find a way to always be with me and with all of us. Everything I am, and ever hope to be, has been influenced and shaped by this very special Human Being. Erin, Jeanne, and Bobby - you will shine SO bright in the world (and you already DO!) because of your amazing talents, your fabulous Mom, the companionship and nurturing of your incredible Dad, and because you are the direct descendants of the Biggest Man Ever. I will be here for you in every way (as will ALL of your Dad's friends,) whenever you need me. I love you with all of the heart and soul I know your Dad loved me with - and you with - and everyone around him with. We will always celebrate the life of this amazing man with joy and music and be grateful that we had as much time with him as we did. The Lakota Sioux have a prayer he and I spoke of together called "Mitakuye Oyasin" = We Are All Related. Dwight has taught me so many beautiful and valuable things about this world, but that might be the most important lesson ever. A piece of my spirit is gone, but the things he taught and shared with me keep popping back in to repair it, just like before. The only differrence is that now I will miss him, deeply and truly, and I know that he won't be calling to check on me again. But that's what all the music in the world, and "Jeremiah Johnson" and "Little Big Man" are for... Goodbye my friend. It was a wild ride. I loved you with all of my heart and I'm so very glad that you always knew it. XO T
Nathan Smith
February 5, 2009
We talked more about Westerns and music than we ever talked about philosophy or deep feelings. Still, I learned a lot from Dwight Halvorson about how to pick out the important things in life. He never second-guessed happiness. His wit and warm disposition were constant, even in the obscurity of uncertain times. His affection for family and friends was legendary. I loved hanging around with Dwight, and I’ll always admire him. He was a good friend.
John Prince
February 5, 2009
Dearest Bridget. Erin, Jeanne, and Bobby, Our hearts are heavy thinking of your loss.We are praying for all of you and Dwight. we send hugs and kisses and all,our prayers,our love forever. Uncle John and Aunt Pat
Sarah Langford
February 3, 2009
Bobby & the Amazing Halvorson Girls,
My heart aches for you at this difficult time & I send prayers to heaven that God's goodness, peace, and comfort will pour over each one of you. Your father & husband was and is an amazing soul that joyfully & beautifully touched so many of us. Each of you carry a part of him with you in your voices, your laughs, and beautiful smiles. I just wanted to send hugs from an old friend to wrap around ya Bobby, your sisters & your sweet mom. You're all in my thoughts...
All my love - Sarah Langford
Dad and I singing at the company Christmas party
February 2, 2009
Enjoying a beer at the lake - 7/2007
February 2, 2009
House bar in Okoboji
February 2, 2009
Don Cook
February 2, 2009
I am so sorry bridget and family. I have wonderful memories and sorry Dwight and I lost touch in later years. I have thought about him many times, and it always brought a warm feeling.
Shroom Patton
February 2, 2009
Dearest Dwight,
I just wanted to thank you for the many different ways you helped me out and for your generosity. Thank you for offering me a job, thanks for happy hours, thanks for swearing at me in friendly cheer, thanks for giving me three great friends(yeah I mean your offspring), and thanks for having such an awesome sense of humor even when things were less than humorous, that will never be forgotten. You are an inspiration to me because you were a go getting, self-starter and you were a success that never took it in vain. You will live on in my memory and even though you lived a shorter life than we had all hoped, you made more of an impact than most people could do in 100 years. Cheers to you Dwight!
Gary Halvorson
February 2, 2009
Well D; It's my time to tell you and your family a few things. As I whispered to you on the Sunday we left; you have always been my hero and always will be. You are not only my brother but you are my best friend. I will never speak of you in the past because you are still with me, you're just living in a different place. I will always talk to you because I know you can here me. You taught me a lot of things when we were kids that dad just didn't have time to and even though you constantly punished me (kiddingly)you always stood up and were there for me. You are a tremendous Dad, Son, Brother and Friend. I will always, always love you.
God Speed;
Gigs.
Nikki Decker
February 2, 2009
I am deeply saddened by your loss. Dwight was like a second father to me during my college years. He made me feel like part of the family and took us girls out every time he visited Arizona. I’ll always have fond memories of him, including amazing jam sessions, lots of food and drink, and endless karaoke. It’s like I told Erin, if you ever needed a “stomach crippling” laugh session, hang with Big Papa and you’d be set for a year. I thank him for giving me my best friend and being such a tremendous father. He will be greatly missed and treasured….
Dad and Maury
February 2, 2009
February 2, 2009
February 2, 2009
Everyone was captivated by his dance moves! Haha
February 2, 2009
Dad doing what he did best - entertaining
February 2, 2009
Mom and Dad
February 2, 2009
Dad and Bobby at Lyndsey's wedding
February 2, 2009
Annie Spence
February 1, 2009
Bridget, Erin, Jeanne & Bobby - I'm so sorry. I will never forget the summer I lived with your family. You all welcomed me into your home for three months, and I think I laughed the entire time! Uncle Dwight...he made me laugh constantly, to the point where he actually started imitating my own laugh back to me, which would only make me laugh harder. He was so kind-hearted and generous, and one of the funniest people in any room.
I know he had an impact on everyone that crossed his path...and he will be missed by everyone who knew him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Love you and see you soon.
Irene Deen
February 1, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I have such fond memories of your family. My sons- Aaron and Brian were friends of your children and I know it will pain them to know he is gone. Dwight was a kind and caring man who was always a pleasure to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. With love, Irene Deen
Susan Schoenig
January 30, 2009
Not long after I met Dwight, I started calling him Big D and always did. Big Papa, Big D, Big Man they all fit. His personality was big, his talent was big, his laugh was big and his love for his family even bigger. I think this Brian Andreas saying sums it up, "The first time his laughter unfurled its wings, we knew that the world would never be the same." And it wasn't. There are too many wonderful memories full of laughter, song and eating to ever forget him but I will dearly miss him. My love and prayers are with you Bridgie, Erin, Jeanne and Bobby.
All my love, Sue
Great times! Our last complete round of golf! Dwight was a warrior that day!
Alonso Bayardo
January 30, 2009
So many moments, conversations and laughs, where do you begin or end?...perhaps at Dwight's Harry Carey tremendously funny impersonations during our getaways.."Heey.. here's a guy from Mexicali who came to this country illegaly to exploit his own people, I can't figure it out"..I never laughed so hard in my life.
Your plan to take that road trip to Lake Okeboji in the extravagant Ferrari, me driving while you ate grapes and discussed "life", will have to wait for now..but we will take the road trip some day and maybe just maybe we will take the Bentley instead...
I will always treasure Dwight's friendship.. a tremendous man who cared more about the well being of others more than his.
Tu Amigo por siempre.
Gayle Danforth
January 30, 2009
Bridget and family,
I was saddened to learn of Dwight's death and am so sorry for your tremendous loss. Although I didn't know him personally, a man's family speaks volumes about who he is, and his certainly speaks well of him. Reading the information about him in the newspaper and in guest book entries I can see where Bobby's wit and humor(even as a 9-year-old) were nurtured.
Matt Leak
January 29, 2009
I send my dearest condolences to the Halvorson family. Although I only knew Dwight for a short time he had a great impact on me with the way he lived life with nothing holding him back. He is the kinda guy you want to be around and will always bring a smile to your face. He was an amazing musician and a great fishing buddy also. I love ya Dwight and we'll all miss you tremendously...
Barb Midstokke
January 29, 2009
Bridget - We were schocked to hear of Dwight's death. He was truly a remarkable person. Our sincere condolences to you and the family during this sad time.
Barb & Jim Midstokke, Rocklin, CA
Jane Riboni
January 29, 2009
Dwight,
I will never be able to hear the word TREMENDOUS again without thinking of you. It is not only a word you used to describe many things, but also the way you lived and loved. I will miss you Mr. D. and the vibrance you brought to every occassion. I won't be able to wander off from a bonfire again without thinking of you singing in the background. Love you.
Leslie Gray
January 29, 2009
Bridget, I too am shocked to learn of Dwight's passing; I guess it has been 5 years since we all sat together on soccer fields! I am so sorry for your family's loss.
Becky Sager
January 29, 2009
Dear Bridget;
I am so shocked and saddened to learn of Dwight's passing. He was not only a boss, but a mentor and good friend. He taught me to think outside the box and to enjoy Jerry Jeff Walker music. He touched my life in a way that I will never forget. I feel blessed to have known such a passionate man in every aspect of his life. What a funny, fun guy. I can still hear his laugh. I know he will be dearly missed by alot of people, but now my thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids.
Brian Colvin
January 29, 2009
My sincere condolences to the Halvorson family. I knew Dwight well in high school but saw him only a few times after that. He's one I should have stayed in touch with, and I regret not doing so. It sounds like he remained the same fun-loving guy until his passing. We shared many laughs and great times in Spanish class...adios, y mucho gusto en conecerle, amigo.
Roberta Markus
January 28, 2009
Dwight was not only my brother but my best friend. He has inspired me all of my life and has left a bigger legacy than most 90 yr. olds. could ever dream of. I have a huge hole in my heart now that will never be filled. I will continue to see him through his 3 wonderful kids and all of the great memories he has left me with. Dwight worked hard, played hard, loved hard and prayed hard. He did more for other people in his 58 yrs. than most could do in 100. I am one of those people. I will truly miss his loving, caring and support he has given me all of my life but will also miss the thousands of times he made me laugh until I cried. He was truly my hero. I love you Bridget, Erin, Jeanne and Bobby and I know we'll be with him someday again all singing together and laughing for eternity. Until then, he would want us to practice while we are still here and when we think and speak of him, LAUGH.
SUE DUNCAN
January 28, 2009
Dwight....I close my eyes..I am drinking a glass of your fine wine, full of the meat you have lovingly bbq'd for us..probably feeling no pain and extremely excited that you and the fam have decided to entertain us with your incredibly gifted voices...you are sitting on the front of the chair....holding your guitar....smiling....songs are yelled out...and you sing whatever you want....then you smile and sing the song we want....I will never be at another bbq without toasting you...I will feel your presence...and I will smile and feel extremely lucky that I knew you and loved you and I hold all those memories close to my heart...Sue
Mike Flanagan
January 28, 2009
Bridget, I am so sorry for your loss. I am in disbelief. I have been sitting here most of today laughing and crying, thinking about all the great times we had. Kids, you don't know me but I spent three of the most memorable years of my life side by side with your dad. We were friends, room mates and travel partners.
There are not many smiles and laughs as big as Dwight's. His passion for music was unselfishly shared with everyone. His zest for life was driven by his desire to make the most out of every day and every opportunity that presented itself. He was a magnet to all. He was driven like no one else I have ever met when it came to learning something new. The world will miss him dearly. God bless you all.
Carole Paddelford
January 28, 2009
Bridget - I am so sorry to read of Dwight's passing. Although I only recall meeting him once, when Rob and I and you and Dwight went to a country music concert, I remember his sharp wit. I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Thanksgiving 2007 - enjoying the good life with a glass of Dom Perignon.
January 28, 2009
Antonia Fish
January 28, 2009
This is so beautiful and is basically "Pig Papa" in a nutshell! Dwight, you will be incredibly missed, but the hysterical memories you have left us all with will be in our hearts forever!
Sara Boddie-Schick
January 28, 2009
I consider myself so lucky to have been born as Dwight's niece, and been his friend. I could write a book with stories of hilarity that he either experienced or inspired. He was a kind, loving, generous person who never met a stranger and had a special talent for seeing the good in everyone. He was always a huge support and light to me and everyone I knew. I love and miss him dearly and look forward to giving him a big hug on the other side one day.
Say Hi to Papa, Uncle D. Have a beer with my dad when he makes it up there. Love you. xxoo
Molly Duncan-Anderson
January 28, 2009
I love you big papa! I will always cherish the fun times our families had together. You will always be here with all of us in our hearts. Love you dssadddy:)
Love, Mol
Laura Stangrover
January 28, 2009
This is such a beautiful tribute to Dwight's life. He was such a loving husband and father and I know he will be dearly missed by all he came in contact with. He is with God now and is watching over his dear family every day. My thoughts are with you all.
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