Arthur C. Hedstrom, age 96, of North Oaks and Grand Marais, died September 14, 2015.
Art was known for his unapologetic optimism and mastery of impossible tasks. Though born to a lumbering family in Grand Marais, an allergy to pine and cedar—a decided industry disadvantage—caused him to begin his career in the telecommunications business. He retired from NW Bell Telephone as a senior executive in 1981.
During World War II he served in Army Intelligence where he developed unique code breaking equipment.
After retirement he began domesticated wild rice farming and, in conjunction with the University of Minnesota, a strain of wild rice was developed and named after him.
He and Marian traveled widely and made friends from around the world. Art and Marian opened their hearts and homes to students from Germany and
Russia, who then became part of the family.
He was passionate about helping others. He was active in Boy Scouting and was instrumental in the development and expansion of Tomahawk Scout Reservation.
He was a member and past president of North Suburban Golden K Kiwanis Club. Art was the oldest past master of Garnet Lodge No. 166, AF&AM.
Art was preceded in death by 12 brothers and sisters, and Marian, his wife of 68 years.
Art is survived by daughter Diane Wesman (Eric), grandson Christopher Wesman (Sarah), granddaughter Jennifer Wesman Esnough (DeWayne), great-grandsons Miles Wesman and Eric Esnough, son Dean (Sandy Jacobsen), numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and a loving golden retriever.
Services have been held in St. Paul. Interment will be at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Grand Marais in October.
Leave a Reply