Virgil Mortenson, age 81 of Bottineau died Wednesday at his home in Bottineau.  A private family service will be held at a later time.

Virgil Mortenson, a son of Alfred and Bertha (Byrie) Mortenson, was born on February 6, 1937 at Bottineau.  He was raised there and graduated from Bottineau High School in 1956.  On September 30, 1956, he married Shirley Haakenstad at the Lesje Lutheran Church near Souris.  This marriage later ended.  He lived in numerous places before returning to Bottineau in 1972.  Virgil was an entrepreneur.  He was know as the "Christmas Tree Man" and he sold them for 45 years.  He also worked as a plumber & pipefitter, farmer, soil tester and crop sprayer. He also sold fireworks and recreational vehicles for many years.

Virgil was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Bottineau.  He was also a member of the Eagles Club and belonged to the Local #300 Plumber and Pipefitters Union.

He is survived by one daughter, Kelly and her husband, Steve Turner of Fargo; two sons, Kery Mortenson and his wife, Wendy of Lake Villa, IL and Kris Mortenson and his wife, Jamie of Souris; 7 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; sister, Elaine Kittleson and brothers Glen Mortenson and Beryl Mortenson; and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangement were with Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau.  Friends may sign the online register book at www.nerofuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the request that memorials be given to the Heart of America Hospice.