Maurice “Red” Willard Ohlquist Sr., 89, of International Falls passed away with his loving family by his side on Tuesday, September 6, 2022. Maurice was bom on October 8, 1932 in Badger, Roseau County, MN to Maurice and Myrtle (Bakken) Ohlquist. Maurice grew up on his family farm along with his sister Margaret, for which he was and has always remained especially close. As a child and young adult, Maurice was known for his coppercolored locks, quickly earning him the nickname “Red”.
As a young adult, Maurice was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He was very proud of his service and loved telling stories of this time, which included becoming a competitive boxer. After he was honorably discharged in 1955, he went to work for Mando and retired from Boise Cascade as #1 Will Sheeter Operator in 1996. Known for his work ethic, Maurice picked up a few other occupations along the way including owning and operating several businesses including Ohlquist Garbage Service, Helen’s Cafe, and Ohlquist Lawn Care and Snow Removal.
Maurice enjoyed woodworking, road trips, fishing, hunting, daily breakfast at one of his favorite restaurants, meeting his daily coffee group at Hardee’s for a Coke, but his family was his true pride and joy.
Maurice was preceded in death by his parents; his previous wife and mother of 5 children, Delores Christiansen; his wife Linda and mother of 2 children; and son Maurice Ohlquist Jr.; and grandson Shawn Ohlquist.
Maurice is survived by his children: Jim (Marcia) Ohlquist, Bruce (Debbie) Ohlquist, Sandy Ohlquist, Noel “Tiger” (Tina ) Hoppe, George Anne Brandrick, Skip (Heidi) Ohlquist; sister Margaret Ann Ohlquist; grandchildren: Mandy Sears, Jesse (Alayna) Grotberg, Chris Ohlquist, Jeremy (Chelsee) Ohlquist, Ryan (Felaria) Ohlquist, Maura (Joe) Murray, Jenny Ohlquist, Tonya (Jon) Bartsch, Traci Hoppe (Tyler McFarland), Trey Hoppe (Megan), Donald (Crystal) Ohlquist, Robbie Brandrick, and Mariah Taschuk; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandson due in January; and numerous extended family and friends.
A Funeral Service was held on Monday, September 12, 2022 at 11:00am at the Evangelical Covenant Church, International Falls, MN. Online condolences to www.mlakerfuneralhome.com http://www.mlakerfuneralhome.com
