Milford Auran

Milford O. Auran, age 83, of Alexandria, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 7, 2017, at the St. Williams Living Center in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota.

A memorial service will be 11: 30 a.m., Thursday, January 12, 2017, at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Rev. David Hinz and Rev. Geoff Gronewold officiating. Music is provided by organist, Irma Brockberg. Burial is at Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria. Full military honors provided by the Minnesota Honor Guard, Alexandria American Legion Post #87, Alexandria VFW Post #936, and VVA Rifle Squad Chapter 235.

Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.

Milford Orlono Auran was born on May 29, 1933, in Emmaville, Minnesota to Willie and Mable (Schjei) Auran. Milford graduated from Alexandria High School in 1951, and joined the Navy during the Korean War. After his service to his country he came home to marry the love of his life, Dorcus Rolfzen on September 17, 1955, at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Melrose, Minnesota. Together they raised their two boys in the Alexandria area.  Milford worked as a machinist, using his training from the military, and worked for Glenwood Manufacturing, Balanca Aircraft, co-owned Thor Engineering, and eventually retired from Douglas Machine in 1995.  Milford or “Miff”, as he was known by family and friends, was an avid outdoorsmen. In his earlier years he liked to golf, fish, and garden. In his later years Miff spent more time cutting wood, going to the “40” in Park Rapids to mow lawn, work on the cabin, deer stands, and clear walking trails through the woods. At home Miff enjoyed spending time working in the garage fixing or making things for the house. In the late afternoons he would “Patrol the Perimeter” in the yard and look over Lake Victoria reminiscing about the good old days. He loved to read and was a master of trivia. He was nicknamed the “Guru” at the deer camp for his vast knowledge of various topics. Miff will be missed greatly by family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Mable Auran; brother, Ronnie Auran; and sisters, Carol Bundy and Ileene Auran.

Milford is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dorcus Auran of Alexandria; two sons, Steve Auran and Kyle Auran of Alexandria both of Alexandria; grandson, Kolten Auran of Alexandria; granddaughter, Auvryelle Auran of Alexandria;  brother, Sylvan Auran of Warren, MI; and sister, Ione Payette of White Bear Lake.