Eugene “Red” Ardel Thurman Folden, age 88, of Newfolden, Minnesota, went to Heaven with the angels on October 20, 2025.
Born on January 18, 1937, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, Eugene was the youngest of four boys born to Bergman E. Folden and Thorbjar (Aslekson) Folden. He grew up on the family farm in Marshall County near Newfolden, where he learned the value of hard work and the strength of faith. He attended country school and graduated from Newfolden High School, where he played saxophone—a talent that earned him a pass from farm chores if he practiced daily after school.
Eugene credited his survival through life’s challenges to his mother’s prayers. After attending Moorhead Teachers College for six months, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving for two years. Following his honorable discharge, he worked on ore carriers for U.S. Steel on the Great Lakes until 1966. In 1968, he joined Dearborne Marine out of Freeport, Texas, working on small boats in offshore oil exploration, including time spent near Africa.
In 1966, Eugene married Bonnie Brekkestran, and together they welcomed a son, Terrance. In 1979, he moved to Washington State, where he worked for Lunstead Furniture Company for 14 years and ran a part-time janitorial service in the evenings.
Eugene’s faith in God was the cornerstone of his life, especially in his final months. He loved sharing his faith and found deep joy in the fellowship and ministry of the Evangelical Free Church in Newfolden. He also enjoyed ice fishing, dancing, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife, Connie (Kilen) Folden; son Terrance (Susan); brother Donovan (Marilyn); stepdaughter Annette (Steve); grandchildren Brandon, Zachary, Bryan (Ashley), Jerrol, Samantha (Andrew), and Destiny; great-grandchildren Sylas and Sammie Jo; and many nieces and nephews.
Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Howard and Leslie; stepdaughter Diane; and grandson David Jr.
Eugene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Evangelical Free Church in Newfolden, MN. Private burial will follow at Folden Cemetery, rural Newfolden.
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