Harold Solem

Harold Solem, of Dawson, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Johnson Memorial Hospital in Dawson at the age of 89.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 17, at Grace Lutheran Church in Dawson with Pastor Kendall Stelter officiating.

Visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, at Hanson & Dahl Funeral Home in Dawson with a prayer service starting at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at church on Thursday.

Burial will be in the Grace Lutheran Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to Grace Lutheran, JMHS Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Harold Kenneth Solem was born on July 29, 1935, in rural Marietta to Selmer and Gladys (Ennis) Solem. He was baptized on September 15th, 1935, and confirmed on May 22nd, 1949, at Augusta Lutheran Church in Marietta, MN. Harold was a 1953 graduate of Marietta High School.

In November of 1954, Harold proudly enlisted in the U.S. Marines. He was a member of the American Legion and was recently awarded a Certificate of Continuous Membership for his 70 years of service. He took pride in his service and dedicated his time to honoring and remembering all who have served.

Harold married Ruth Holte on March 25th, 1961. They built their life on their farm in rural Dawson. After the loss of Harold’s sister and brother-in-law, he and Ruth took in their children: Pauline, Susan, and Sam. Harold and Ruth later welcomed Jacqueline and Dean into their family. Harold was proud of his five children and cherished every moment of being their father. Watching Harold and Ruth, the true meaning of commitment and love was evident. They cherished their time raising their children together on the farm and the countless memories made with friends. When the kids were young, neighbors would stop by the farm on Saturday mornings for coffee. The coffee habit continued with close friends after moving to town. In his later years, Harold was devoted to taking care of Ruth as her memory failed. When the time came for her to move to the care center, he spent much of his time visiting her and making sure she had her favorite chocolates.

Harold spent most of his life as a farmer; he loved this way of life and worked hard to provide for his family. In 2001, he was elected as Lac Qui Parle County Commissioner where he served on many local and regional boards and committees. He was honored to serve in this role until 2012 and cherished the relationships he built during that time.

Harold will be remembered for his quiet demeanor; yet when he spoke up, everyone knew it was time to listen. He was selfless and opened his home and heart to anyone in need. Harold had a great love of the outdoors and had many wonderful memories of hunting and fishing with family and friends. He also loved anything involving horses, cattle, and rodeo. He even competed in several horse riding events in his younger years. In recent years, anyone who visited him could always catch The Cowboy Channel on his TV. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him the most happiness and pride; he loved their visits and watching the activities they were involved in.

Harold is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ruth; his children: Sam Maass, Jacqueline Masafu, and Dean Solem. Grandchildren: Harold Maass, Jennifer (Eric) Mosenden, Cassandra (Tucker) Upkes, Brin Lewis, Bryce (Shianne) Lewis, Jadyn Masafu, Kade Solem, and Mason Solem. Great-Grandchildren: Tygen Mosenden, Kenna Mosenden, Raquel Sonczalla, and Redley Lewis, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his children: Pauline Maass and Susan Maass; parents Selmer and Gladys Solem; sisters Ethel Maass and Myrtle Solem; daughter-in-law Kathy Maass; father and mother in-law Roy and Emmeline Holte; brothers and sister in-law: Warner Maass, Roy Jr. and Kathleen Holte, Alta and Dwight Roesch.

Blessed be his memory.