DiAnn & Gary Svenson Stories

49 years ago today, DiAnn Ehler married Gary Svenson at DiAnn's home church, St. Francis de Sales in Ossian, Iowa. A first date to the Charley Pride show at the Iowa State Fair netted a lifetime commitment.  Pictured here in the wedding party, (L to R) are Linda (Pankow) Johnson, Gary's cousin, Betty Busta, among DiAnn's dearest friends, DiAnn & Gary, Rich Svenson, Gary's brother and Kenny Lutkenhaus, DiAnn's cousin.  This photo was taken by the incomparable Willis & Norma Wangsness, who perfectly captured hundreds of lifetimes of forever moments in their photography ministry.  This photo was recreated on October 21, 1997 for a surprise celebration for Gary & DiAnn's 25th wedding anniversary. 

This estimated holiday 1950 photo captures (left to right) Gary Svenson, Rich Svenson, Dave Svenson and Carl Svenson. Also in the photo are the boys' uncle Ray Pankow, and (slightly off camera), their father, Sverre Svenson.  Immigrating to the United States as an infant, Sverre instilled in his boys a strong work ethic and a legacy of craftsmanship. Rich, Dave and Carl all developed beautiful, detailed craftsmanship and overall construction skills learned from their father.  The boys incorporated their father's general contracting business as Sverre Svenson and Sons so their dad could retire. Between Sverre and his boys, there is a legacy of more than 70 years of quality homes, cabinets, and special projects in Decorah and beyond.