Fern Stras

Fern Ethel Stras, 81, a resident of Rothsay, Minnesota, died Sunday, April 22, 2012, at Lake Region Healthcare in Fergus Falls. She was born June 27, 1930, in Elizabeth, Minnesota, the daughter of Elof and Anna Emma (Scheffler) Norgren. She was baptized on July 27, 1930, and confirmed on May 21, 1944 by Reverend G. Grabarkewitz. Fern grew up in Elizabeth, attending school at District #37, and graduating on June 23, 1943. On April 10, 1956, she and Carlton Stras were married in Elizabeth by Rev. Grabarkewitz. Fern was one of the first cooks at the Rothsay Truck Stop. She also worked at the Pelican Rapids Turkey Plant, and then at the Fergus Falls State Hospital for over 20 years, retiring in 1993. Following her retirement she drove for social services, and worked part time at Hotel 7 and at the Pelican Valley Nursing Home. She was an active member at Hamar Lutheran Church during her younger years, participating in Ladies Aid and Circles, and continued to assist with other activities after retirement. Fern traveled all over the state of Minnesota, attending various high school sporting events, cheering for the Rothsay Tigers. She enjoyed her trips to auction sales, flea markets, and casinos, listening to old time music, and watching a variety of sports on TV. Preceding her in death were her parents, son, Carlton John Jr., grandson, Mathew Stras, a brother, Kermit Norgren, and brothers and sisters-in-law: Eugene Holt, Herbert Thom, Robert Thom, Garnet Johnson, Carol and Ralph Halbakken, and Otto Moe. Survivors include her husband, Carlton John Stras; children: Betty, Daniel, and James (Janice); six grandchildren: Jennifer, Nicole, Anne, John, Jamie, and Joseph; seven great-grandchildren: Mathew, Levi, Avery, Charity, Destiny, Brynn, and Trevor; sisters: Eleanor Holt, Ruth Thom, Mae (Harold) Haugen, Joyce Thom, Laverne Johnson, and Janice (Charles) Vangsness; a brother, Elof Norgren Jr.; sisters-in-law, Mae Moe and Dianna Norgren; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation: 9:30 – 11 a.m. Thursday at New Life Lutheran Church in Rothsay Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Thursday, April 26, 2012, at New Life Lutheran Church in Rothsay Clergy: Reverend Paul Huso Interment: Hamar Cemetery, Rothsay, Minnesota Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of the arrangements.