M.E. "Red" Voldness

M.E. "Red" Voldness, 90, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, at his home. Born on November 29, 1934, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, he was the son of Albin and Edna Olsen Voldness. Red's education began in southern Wisconsin, and he later transitioned to high school in Hebron before moving to Chicago. On June 4, 1955, Red married the love of his life, Patricia O'Conner, at St. Benedict's Church in Fontana, Wisconsin. The couple shared a loving marriage that lasted 64 years until Patricia's passing in 2019. He pursued a career in aviation, attending Chicago Vocational School and later Aeronautical University at Midway Airport, all while contributing his talents to Trans World Airlines (TWA). In a turn of events during a lengthy mechanics union strike, he ventured into construction and quickly found his passion, ultimately spending 38 years as a job superintendent, overseeing the construction of large industrial buildings throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. In 2009, Red relocated to Mountain Home, where he continued to build a life filled with friendship and community.

Red is survived by his sister-in-law, Helen Voldness of Mountain Home, Arkansas; brother-in-law, John O'Connor of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and numerous nieces and nephews, who will always remember his quick wit and sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Edna Voldness; his wife, Patricia Voldness; and his siblings, Idris Voldness, Arlen Voldness, Val Norman, and Nancy Powers.

Visitation will be Monday, December 23, 2024, 1:00 pm, at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel with vigil at 2:00 pm. In a final tribute to their enduring love, Red will be laid to rest next to Patricia at Roselawn Cemetery in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the kindness shown during this time.

Arrangements are entrusted to Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Friends and loved ones are invited to visit the online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.