Elmer Hjorten

Elmer T. HJORTEN Nov. 22, 1918 ~ Jan. 29, 2010

The heavens have called upon and received another warrior, master craftsman and fisherman. Elmer was born in Astoria, OR to Evert and Mathilda Hjorten. He married the love of his life, Charlotte Thompson (deceased7/12/09) on March 30, 1941.

In 1942 just after the start of WWll, Elmer joined the U.S. Army Air Corps. He trained as a gunner and shipped overseas to Italy on a B-24 Liberator. He was assigned to the 15th Air Force, 459th Bomb Group. By the grace of God and skill of his crew, he survived 56 combat missions over Germany.

After the war he returned home to Astoria. Then in 1948 Elmer and Charlotte moved to Seattle, WA where they lived out their storybook love affair together. They were married for 68 wonderful years.

Elmer was a passionate craftsman so he plied his trade as a carpenter. He could build anything and fix everything. His love of boats and the sea called him away to Bristol Bay, Alaska as a commercial fisherman back in the day of sailboat gillnetters. He continued in both careers until he retired from carpentry at age 62 and fishing at age 64. He leaves behind a legacy of unmatched hard work and devotion to his family, God and country. He was a member of the Carpenters Union, Alaska Fisherman Union and Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church for more than 50+ years.

His life inspired many and he will be missed by his 2 children, Cathlyn (Douglas) MacQuarrie, Thomas (Linda) Hjorten, 5 grandsons and their families, 3 great grandchildren and many close friends. In accordance with Elmer's wishes only a graveside service will be held at Evergreen Washelli on 2/13/10 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to Medic I, American Heart Association or Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church.

S/Sgt. Elmer T Hjorten was assigned to the 459th BG 756th Squadron.

The following information on Elmer Hjorten is gathered and extracted from military records. We have many documents and copies of documents, including military award documents. It is from these documents that we have found this information on S/Sgt. Hjorten. These serviceman's records are nowhere near complete and we are always looking for more material. If you can help add to Elmer Hjorten's military record please contact us.