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As each Memorial Day and Veterans Day approaches, local sandblaster Vance Walgrave is busy etching names onto pavers for veteran memorials throughout southwest Minnesota.
In Luverne, however, the pavers are engraved on-site at the Rock County Veterans Memorial.
Walgrave, owner of Those Blasted Things, brought his equipment to the courthouse grounds Thursday, May 16, to etch a paver that joins almost 2,000 others he’s already completed since the 2007 memorial was dedicated.
“Even though it is just one, it’s important to the family,” Walgrave said.
Edward Tofteland’s name was etched on one of the 11-by-4-inch bricks that comprise the walkway from the memorial to the Luverne Street sidewalk.
Tofteland’s son, Joel, of Apple Valley, purchased the paver in remembrance of his dad’s military service.
“I know very little about his military background,” he admitted.
What is known is etched on the paver: Edward Tofteland, Army, WWII.
Joel said his dad, like many other 21-year-olds of that era, was drafted into the military in 1942.
Edward, the only son of Jens and Jenny Tofteland, served about six months before returning to help out at the family farm northeast of Beaver Creek.
Edward farmed until his death in 1983 at age 62.
He married Mary, and the couple had five other children in addition to Joel — Janece, June, Joan, Marvin and Rodney.
They all grew up on the homestead once located northeast of Beaver Creek, near where Marvin Tofteland currently farms.
The Veterans Memorial pavers can be purchased for or by residents who live or have lived in Rock County, were honorably discharged from the armed forces or are currently on active duty. There is no requirement on length of service.
Pavers cost $125, and the funds from the sale of the pavers is used for perpetual care of the monument.
Like his father, Joel Tofteland was also drafted into the military, serving two years in the Army during the Vietnam War.
“All the veterans there deserve recognition,” Tofteland said. “My next challenge is to do one for myself.”
A full list of names etched on the pavers is located at rockcountyveteransmemorial.com, which also has an application form to purchase a paver.