This is what I know so far. John Martinus (Jonassen) Monness was born August 12, 1857 in Verdal, Norway. He married Karen Marie Ostnesss she was born July 19, 1861 in Verdal, Norway Karen died December 31, 1929 in Stanley, Clark County, Wisconsin John had the last name legally changed to Monness at the Ellsworth Courthouse, Ellsworth, Pierce County, Wisconsin the date unknown. They had at least 7 children Amy, Elvina, Milton, Richard,Allie , Herman and John Alvin Monness. John Alvin was my great-grandfather. He was born April 14, 1891 in River Falls, Pierce County, Wisconsin. He married Laura Geolina Larson on May 3, 1901 in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota. John died January 18, 1959 at the University Hospital, Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin. Laura was born ecember 23, 1900 in Pine Creek, Dunn County, Wisconsin. Laura died January 21, 1967 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Marshfield, Wood County, Wisconsin. I have a little more information, but to much to add at this time.
Please if anyone has any information please contact me at my e-mail address: pamelassmith@hotmail.com

Thank you
Pam Smith