Sidney Tollefson, age 83, of Bemidji, MN, passed away on Saturday, April 18th, at Bemidji Sanford Medical Center. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date with interment in Elim Lutheran Brethren Cemetery, Clearbrook. Arrangements are with Carlin Family Funeral Service of Fosston and messages of condolence may be shared at www.carlinfuneral.com.

Sidney Oliver Tollefson was born on December 22, 1942, in Mahnomen, Minnesota to parents Oliver and Verla (Eklund) Tollefson. He attended the Lengby School and Fosston High School, graduating in 1960.

He was united in marriage to Linda Dela on October 7, 1961. To this union, three children were born, Todd, Chuck, and Angela. They lived in Fosston where Sidney worked as a mechanic at the Ford Garage, Wynne’s Chevrolet, Standard Oil, and Haugstul’s Auto. In the mid 1970’s, the family moved to Bemidji.

While living in Bemidji, Sidney continued to work as a mechanic, working for Chester Berg for 17 years, Apple Auto and then went to work on his own until his retirement. In his retirement years he drove winter test cars.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending quality time with his family and close friends, and puttering in the garage. His love for wildlife was obvious to all, making sure all the little creatures had someplace safe to be in the yard, even if it meant they would go after the garden, flowers, or trees planted. Even the wild bunnies would come up to him somehow sensing his gentleness.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Linda, of Bemidji; son, Todd (Margie) Tollefson of Bemidji, MN; and daughter, Angela Tollefson of Bemidji; three grandchildren, Chuck, Nick and Conner; eight great grandchildren; siblings, Betty (Bud) Puffinberger of Winchester, VA, Hazel Jones of Moorhead, MN, Linda (Ervin) Dahl of Carlos, MN, and Bill (Sue) Tollefson of Twin Lakes, MN. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his son, Chuck; his parents; granddaughter, Tristan Haack; and niece, Kelly Hanson.