Linda K. Halvorson

Linda Kay Halvorson passed away peacefully at the age of 80, on February 25, 2026, at the Lemay Avenue Health and Rehabilitation facility in Fort Collins, Colorado, following a long battle with Parkinson's disease. Linda was born on December 29, 1945, in Rugby, North Dakota, to G. Emmett and H. Luella (Saterlie) Johnston. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Lois A. Haagenson and is survived by her husband Ardell D. Halvorson of Fort Collins, Colorado; her daughters Renae L. Halvorson of Whitney, Texas, and Rhonda K. (Halvorson) McElroy (Jeffrey) of Las Vegas, Nevada; her grandson Cole J. McElroy of North Liberty, Iowa; her sister Amy Ford of Great Falls, Montana; and her brothers Duane Johnston (Janet) of Rugby, North Dakota and David Johnston (Carole) of Fargo, North Dakota. Linda grew up on a dryland crop and livestock farm about three miles north of Rugby, North Dakota. As a child, her favorite pastime was riding the family horse, Pearl. She would often say that milking the cows was her least favorite chore. She attended a one-room country school for several years before it closed, after which she completed her elementary education in Rugby. In high school, she was active in FHA and band, graduating from Rugby High School in May 1963. She then attended Interstate Business College in Fargo, where she trained as a bookkeeper. Her first job was with Farmers Union Insurance Company in Rugby. On April 11, 1966, she married Ardell D. Halvorson of Rugby at a Lutheran church in Fargo. After their marriage, she worked for the Dean of Agriculture at North Dakota State University while Ardell was a student there. In the fall of 1967, they moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, where Ardell attended Colorado State University. During their time at CSU, Linda worked in the payroll office for three years while also caring for their daughter, Renae. In April 1971, the family moved to Sidney, Montana, where Ardell began working with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Along with raising her family, Linda held bookkeeping positions with Gene’s Implement Service and the USDA ASCS office. She was active in a square dance club and participated in the women’s groups at Pella Lutheran Church. In the fall of 1983, Ardell’s job was transferred to Akron, Colorado. There, in addition to caring for her home and family, Linda worked as a bookkeeper for Farm Bureau Insurance and later as an agent with the USDA ASCS office, assisting farmers with farm programs. She especially enjoyed working with the farming community. She also got a small dog she named Cuddles, which she dearly loved and kept her company until June 8, 2006. In 1993, Ardell’s position moved to Mandan, North Dakota, and they made their home in Bismarck. Linda remained active in their Lutheran church and continued to devote herself to her family. In the fall of 1997, Ardell’s work brought them back to Fort Collins. Linda volunteered at the Fort Collins Colorado Welcome Center for more than ten years, where she enjoyed greeting visitors and helping them find their way or discover local attractions. She became affectionately known as “Bronco Linda” by her friends, reflecting her love of the Denver Broncos and football in general. She was active at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, especially enjoying quilting, and participated in a Bunco club with friends. She also enjoyed relaxing at home and watching television. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

Linda K. Halvorson

December 29, 1945 - February 25, 2026