This obituary was translated from Norwegian by Dr. Kathleen Stokker, Professor of Norwegian at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.
Jens Surland, a long-time reader of the newspaper Folkevennen, died peacefully in his sleep at his home at 1342 West Ohio Street, Chicago, on April 9, at the age of 72. He was buried on April 12 following a well-attended funeral service at Mount Olive Cemetery.
Surland was a Christian both in word and deed. He found God at a young age, and during the 45 years he lived in Chicago, he gained many true friends. He had a tender heart for those in need, and no one left his door unaided if there was any way he could help them.
He possessed a remarkable ability to speak with others about their eternal salvation, and wherever he went, he bore witness to his Savior. As those gathered stood together and watched his earthly remains lowered into the open grave, there was sorrow at his passing, but also joy that another warrior had fought his final battle and gone home to his Lord.
Before his death, Surland expressed a final wish that Brother Cook be thanked for allowing him to receive the newspaper in recent years at no cost. On behalf of himself and his surviving wife, this gratitude is hereby expressed.
May God bless the editorial staff of Vennen and all its readers. May we all live in such a way that when we lay down our walking canes—that is, when we die—it may be said of us, as an unconverted man once said of Surland:
If anyone is a Christian, it’s old Surland.
— Oluf Nelson