Andrew Bjerken

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Andrew Bjerken, age 67, of Hanover, MN, passed away peacefully under the care of hospice, on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.
Andrew Lloyd Bjerken was born on May 24, 1957, in Detroit Lakes, MN, the son of Arthur and Ardelle (Johnson) Bjerken. He grew up in the Ortonville, MN, area and graduated from Ortonville High School with the class of 1975. Andrew pursued further education at Granite Falls Vo-tech and later at Ridgewater. Over the years, Andy worked a variety of jobs, primarily in welding. In 2008, he began his career with Millerbernd, where he was employed until 2020 when his health challenges arose. On February 14, 2009, Andrew married the love of his life, Peggy Sakanya. Together, they shared a deep commitment to family, cherishing each of their growing number of grandchildren. They took several trips to visit Peggy's family in Africa and Andy fell in love with the landscape, culture and beauty there. He had a passion for photography and perfectly captured many magnificent memories. Their dream of retiring to Africa and building a future there was a testament to their adventurous spirit and shared aspirations. Known for his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic, Andrew took great pride in maintaining his yard, which was a labor of love. He spent many hours golfing and greatly anticipated his annual fishing trips up North. Andy had a sweet tooth and loved treats. He especially enjoyed cooking and baking family recipes, which he was eager to share with others. Beyond this, Andrew found solace in woodworking, from refinishing furniture to crafting intricate walking sticks. Andy will be remembered for his dedication to family, his humble trust in the Lord, and his quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Andrew is survived by his wife, Peggy of Hanover; his children and step-children: Christopher (Angela) Bjerken, Corey (Jessa) Bjerken, Nora Jo (Dustin) Freitag, Pervin (Rebecca) Sakanya, Swana (Cecelia) Wauna, Namukulwa (Keith) Rought, Wana Wauna, and Chinkumbi (Casey) Norton; sixteen grandchildren: Kailyn Bjerken, Mason Bjerken, Austyn Bjerken, Ayden Bjerken, Abbey Freitag, Kiah Rydl, Jesse Bjerken, Wiza Sakanya, Bernice Sakanya, Elijah Sakanya, Jeremiah Wauna, Jedidiah Rought, Amelia Rought, Maleeka Wauna, and Micah Norton; three sisters: Linda (Rod) Spronk, Ingrid (David) Ingle, and Jeanette Baune; brothers, James (Robin), Arleigh (Mary Long), and Matthew; one brother-in-law, William (Jean) Van Hecke; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, several aunts and uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ardelle Engebretson; his father, Arthur Bjerken; brothers, Wayne and Phillip; and his sister, Marlene Van Hecke.
A Funeral Service will be held Friday, July 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Anderson Family Funeral Home, Mahnomen, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place in First Lutheran Church Cemetery, Mahnomen. Please feel free to sign the guestbook, send condolences and view other opportunities which may be available on the website.