Margaret Severson

Margaret T. Severson, 95, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Tuesday, January 29, 2013, at the Broen Home in Fergus Falls.

She was born October 12, 1917, in St. Olaf Township, Otter Tail County, Minnesota, the daughter of Gina Olson Reierson, and was raised by Tilla and Martin Soliah. She grew up in Aastad Township, where she was baptized and confirmed at the Aastad Church, and attended school at District 119.

On May 5, 1941, she married Selmer Severson at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, and they made their home in Fergus Falls. Margaret worked at the Regional Treatment Center for 29 years, and also at Lake Region Hospital, Broen Home, Adams, Cleveland and Dilworth schools, Head Start, and Children’s Corner for 25 years, retiring when she was 84. She also served with the Foster Grandparent Program for 25 years.

One of the highlights of her life, after she retired from the Foster Grandparent Program, was her move back to River Bend Apartments where she had so many friends. Card games and many fun times were had there. She also loved to do her word puzzles. In her younger days she made Graham Cracker pies – instead of cake they wanted her pie. She also enjoyed the people that took care of her while she was on assisted living. They were very special to her. Margaret truly enjoyed people.

She was currently a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Gina, Martin and Tilla; her husband, Selmer; a son, Berdell Severson; grandson, Ryan Jensen; sister, Gloria (Mike) Hauge, brothers-in-law Rodney Mecklenberg and Stanley Haugen; and a special friend, Nancy Hanson.

Survivors include a daughter, LaRae Jensen of Fergus Falls; grandchildren: Randy Swendsrud, Rick (Kris) Swendsrud, Marti Severson, Mindy (Jason) Ott, and Melissa (Barry) Patrick; daughter-in-law, Diane Severson; great-grandchildren: Lacey (Chris) Julsrud, Creed Ott, Haili (Kurt) Hovland, Caleb Ott, Hannah Swendsrud, Abby Swendsrud, Gavin Patrick and Owen Patrick, and a great-great grandchild due in August; sisters: Lillian Haugen of Blaine, Carrie Ann Mecklenberg of Pine River, and Joyce (Jim) Stock of Mahnomen; a special friend, Aaron Olson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Sunday, February 3, 2013, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls.
Clergy: Reverend Kate Bruns
Interment: Will be at a later date at the Aastad Church Cemetery, rural Fergus Falls.
Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of the arrangements.