Born: 7 Aug 1869, Holmes City twp, Douglas co, MN
Died: 9 Jan 1897, Holmes City or Minneapolis, MN
Buried: Trysil-Bethesda cemetery, Holmes City twp, Douglas co, MN
Parents: John Persen Aasen
Guri Pettersdtr. Skjærholden
Alexandria Post News, 14 Jan 1897, p2, col 5
Per J. Aasen, eldest son of John P. Aasen, died last Saturday of consumption. Although he had been in failing health for years, it was not until about a year ago that his case was considered so serious that he went to Minneapolis and sought aid in the hospitals there, which only gave him temporary relief. The funeral services occurred on Tuesday, the Rev. H. Jensen officiating.
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Per J. Aasen is dead
Farwell, Minn.., 17th January 1897 (The Reform, 26 Jan 1897)
John P. Aasen’s eldest son, Per, died Saturday, January 9th, after lying in bed for approximately 20 weeks. His pain was often very strong, but his joy in God relieved the pain and he looked eagerly to the day when the gate would open and he should see “him as he is.”
When he could no longer lay on one side, he was so sore – one leg he had hanging in a sling – his one hip and one ear was a for a time bloody sores – this is how I found him last December . But his face shone with joy, and he said “This Christmas is the best I’ve ever had.”
Then when his leg became worse, he was more than happy, because then – he thought – “I have not long to go.”
Death had no terror for him – he was in the arms of Jesus as a child in his mother’s embrace – and therefore could Per Aasen receive death with open arms – with a face shining with joy, because he would have come home.
He rejoiced in God and this gave him strength to endure the brunt of suffering with a remarkable patience. This told much about his touching and sometimes miracle-working belief in God, but I will conclude with the prayer to God that I too shall come so near to Jesus’ bosom, when I shall die, as Per came.
We followed his dust to the grave on the 12th. It was no grief, but tears of joy flowed plentifully. So I say finally: peace go with your dust, brother, blessed be your memory – may green grass sprout on your grave.
E.E. Løbeck
P.S.
John Aasen desires through the “Reform” to give his heartfelt thanks to everyone who showed kindness and sympathy for Per and the others of the family – to Pastor Jensen and the dear youth together with the elders – to all he says a heartfelt thank you!