Florence Larsgaard

Florence Leona Larsgaard, 97, Aneta, ND passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 12th, 2018, at her home surrounded by family. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 15, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stephens Catholic Church in Larimore, ND. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Burial will be at Silent Hill Cemetery, rural Aneta, ND.

Florence was born November 22nd, 1920 at her paternal grandparent’s home in Grand Forks, ND. She was the first child born to George and Gertie (Guck) Kueber. Florence was baptized and later made her first communion and confirmation at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Aneta. She grew up on the family farm north of Aneta. Florence attended a rural school in Rugh Township through eighth grade. Being the oldest of five girls she often was her father’s outdoor helping hand. She attended and graduated from Central High School in Grand forks and went on to attend and graduate from Valley City State teachers college. Florence taught at several North Dakota locations to include 2 rural schools, Streeter Elementary, and finally at Roosevelt School in Dickinson.

Florence enjoyed dancing. During a dance at the Aneta pavilion, she met the love of her life, Carl Larsgaard. They were married on June 9th, 1948, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Aneta. In 1950, they started a new farmstead where they lived together for 62 wonderful years. Here they raised their four children, and enjoyed frequent visits from grandchildren. The farmstead also became home to many relatives when they returned to visit the area.

Florence was an active member of the community. She joined the Logan Center homemaker’s club as a young bride and remained a member for many years until it disbanded. Florence was also a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she taught Sunday school and was a member of its Guild. Later, she became a member of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church of Larimore and St. Anne’s circle. Florence and Carl were members of the Sons of Norway, Petersburg ND and the Elks Lodge, Grand Forks ND. They were also members of Northwood’s Parent Teachers Association. In addition, Florence taught 4-H for a time.

Florence always enjoyed gardening, especially flowers and the many trees she planted around their home. Baking and cooking family meals were also a big part of her fun time. After Carl’s retirement from farming in 1989, Florence and Carl spent many pleasant summer evenings going for a drive, watching the crops grow and enjoying the harvest season. Often these peaceful drives would end with supper at a favorite café or restaurant.

The loves of her life included her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends. In June 2008 Carl and Florence celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. This was a highlight of their life as they celebrated the event with a family reunion dinner at their farm. Carl and Florence were married for 64 years before Carl passed away on June 24th, 2012. Life was never the same, but with the help of her family Florence remained on the farm an additional six years until her death.

Florence was a beloved mother and grandmother with an amazing wit and sensibility. She was the matriarch of the family and a friend to the community. As a strong leader she was caring and contemporary in her views. Florence had an unparalleled memory being able to recall details both current and historical. She continued to actively manage her farm until her passing. Though she will be deeply missed we are comforted knowing she will be having coffee in heaven with her beloved Carl.

Florence is survived by four children: Jim (Marci) of Richmond, KY, Jerry (Deb) of Anchorage, AK, Joan (Rob) Gonzalez of Burnsville, MN, and Judy Nesset of Nashua, NH; thirteen grandchildren: Kathryn, Richard, Lisa, Matthew, Kimberly, Christopher, Michael, Katy, Jenissa, Rudy, Crystal, Heidi, and Bianca; fifteen great grandchildren; one brother, Jack and many nieces and nephews. Shortly after her death, her sister Helen passed.

Preceding her in death were her beloved husband, Carl; sisters Alice, Lucille, and Leona and her parents.