Oressa Runningen

Oressa Myra Runningen, 91, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Thursday, January 31, 2008, at the Pioneer Retirement Community in Fergus Falls. She was born October 24, 1916 in Elbow Lake, Minnesota, the twin daughter of Olaf and Gunda (Brekke) Sorenson. She grew up in rural Elbow Lake on the family farm and attended country school. She was confirmed at Hjerdahl Lutheran Church in Elbow Lake. She moved to Fergus Falls in the 1930's to find employment, and worked as a waitress, including at Elton's Cafe' where she met her future husband, Gilford Runningen. On October 24, 1938, she and Gilford were married, living in Fergus Falls until 1962 when they moved to Alexandria. There they owned and operated the Andria Motel. In 1963 they moved back to Fergus Falls where she has lived ever since. She was most recently a resident of the Pioneer Retirement Community Oressa was a member of First Lutheran Church until 1991 when she joined Faith Lutheran Church. She enjoyed gardening and raising roses, and was devoted to her family and church. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Gilford; her twin sister, Ora, and her brothers Forest, Russell, Gaylon and Webster. Survivors include a daughter Karen and a son, Richard, both of Fergus Falls, along with two nieces, Margie (Terry) Waye of Elbow Lake, and Mary (Scott) Monstead of Metairie, Louisiana; and 5 nephews: John Runningen of Atlanta, GA, Lee (Francine) Runningen of Bloomington, MN, and Duane Sorenson, Roger Sorenson, and Art Sorenson. Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church Service: 1 p.m. Thursday at Faith Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls Clergy:     Reverend Craig Palach Interment: Pelican Lake Cemetery, Ashby, Minnesota Funeral Home: Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com