John and Mathea Balken immigrated from Norway in 1882 using the last name of Iverson. Soon after arrival in Minnesota, John (Johan) changed his last name to Balken. Balken was used on the MN 1885 census. Many of the daughters still used Iverson up to the time of marriage.

OBIT / Fergus Falls Daily Journal.

John J. Balken, resident of this city (Fergus Falls) for thirty-three years and a pioneer of the Rothsay Community, died at his home 917 Junius Avenue W at 9:30 this Thursday forenoon. Mr. Balken had been confined to his bed most of the time since Christmas. ……………. He had been lovingly been cared for by his daughter Mrs. Helga Stras. It is exactly one year and two days ago that his beloved wife passed away at the age of 85. Mr. Balken was born in Norway 88 years ago and his marriage would also take place there. John and his wife (Mathea and three children) came to the United States in 1882 and settled on a farm in the Rothsay Community. They were among the sturdy and respected pioneer farmers of that community. Upon retiring from that farm in 1908, they moved to the city (Fergus Falls) to reside. Here they held the love and respect of many friends. They were the parents of thirteen children, seven of whom survive: Julius (Emma), Rothsay; Mrs P.T. (Inga) Hegseth of Seattle; Mrs O.C. Stras (Helga) who has resided in this city (Fergus Falls) for 2 1/2 years caring for her parents; Oscar (Mary) of Breckenridge; Mrs A.M. (Alice) Erickson of Jordon; Mrs Carl (Clara) Barks, Hollywood CA; and Theovold (Betty) , Spokane WA. Six children preceded their father in death, Halvor, Iver, Edwin, Albert who served WWI, Mrs. Dave (Martha) Zimmerman, Mrs. C. (Caroline ) Amundson, who passed away only a month ago. Other survivors include 41 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Mr. Balken was a kind and loving father and his memory will be revered by a host of family and friends. Funeral arrangements have not been completed.

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(This obituary has been slightly edited for clarification. Transcribed from an obit by TJBB from my own copy. No help from OTCHS was received)