Fern Mae (Jenson) Galstad, age 85, of Blair, died peacefully in her sleep Sunday evening, January 16, 2022 at the Grand View Care Center in Blair where she had been receiving care for the past two years.

Fern was born on May 23, 1936 at home in Disco to George and Frances (Belter) Jenson.  Fern was baptized in the Little Norway Lutheran Church and confirmed in the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran Church. She married Irvin Galstad on April 8, 1961 in the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran Church in rural Taylor.  Irvin preceded Fern in death on November 24, 1989.

Fern was a long-time resident of the Blair Taylor area, graduating from Taylor High School in 1955.  She was very active in the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran Church serving on various committees along with being a Sunday School Teacher and Vacation Bible Teacher.  She was also involved in the church choir for many years.  A special joy was the little children that she taught using the handmade flannel boards, Noah's ark and various other crafts to tell the stories.

Fern in her younger years, enjoyed being outdoors gardening, tending to flowers and watching the birds.  Other interests were sewing for her children and grandchildren, embroidery and quilting for the church.  In the early 1970's, Fern decided it was time to work outside of the home.  This started her years of service to Grand View Care Center, retiring after almost thirty years.  During retirement, she joined the Sons of Norway and attended numerous gatherings with the MNC club and church groups.

Fern took a special interest in her grandchildren's activities from hunting, school activities and employment. Other special events included walking Michael down the aisle at his wedding in the fall of 2017.  She enjoyed passing on Norwegian baking Sandbakkelse and KrumKake techniques to them.  Fern was excited to learn first-hand of the engagements of both granddaughters to be married this upcoming year.

Fern is survived by two daughters, Lori (Dan) Bagniewski of LaCrosse and Diane Wilde and Andy Johnson of Tomah; four grandchildren, Gabrielle and Bobby Bagniewski and Michael (Katelyn) and Erica Wilde; a sister, Joyce Turner of Hatfield. She will be missed by her special friends, Mary and Charlotte.

In addition to her parents and husband, Fern was preceded in death by a son, Melvin and two brothers, Gabe and Fred.

A special thank you to Grand View Care Center for the care and compassion shown to Fern while a resident.  Also thank you to the staff of Gundersen, La Crosse and Whitehall for the exceptional care provided the last two weeks of life.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. in the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran Church with burial in the church cemetery both in rural Taylor.  Pastor Natalie Leske will officiate.  Friends may call one hour prior to the service.

Facial coverings and social distancing would be appreciated.

Memorials may designated to the Grand View Care Center Activities Department in Blair.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.