Vilis Vijums

Vilis Vijums, age 83, a resident of Grantsburg died Friday, August 24, 2012 with family near in the comforts of his home with the help of Regional Hospice. Vilis was born on September 13, 1928 to parents Vilis and Zelma Vijums. Vilis came to the United States as a displaced person. He learned the craft of tile setting and became a perfectionist at it. On December 18, 1984 he took Marlys on their first date to the Ordway Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota, this is where it began. After 27 years of being together, they married on August 26, 2011 in Grantsburg. He was a kind, generous and passionate man who always was willing to help others. He had a great sense of humor, enjoyed cooking and sharing his talents with others. Vilis was preceded in death by his parents; brother Alfred and grandson Patrick Niemi. He is and will be sadly missed by his wife Marlys; children Lita Vijums, Erik Vijums, step-children Crystal (Tom) Longtin, Holly Kostohryz, Julie Niemi, and John Lehman; 12 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; special sister-in-law Aija Vijums; along with other relatives and many friends. A private family service will be held. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Grantsburg. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com