Vernice Barsness

Vernice Barsness, 92, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Saturday, January 14, 2012, at the PioneerCare Center in Fergus Falls. She was born March 29, 1919, in Starbuck, Minnesota, the third of four children born to Roy and Julia Skinner. Named Lucile Vernice, she always preferred her middle name. Vernice was baptized in Terrace, MN, at her grandparents home by Rev. Beito and confirmed at Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck, MN, by the Rev. Johnshoy. She graduated from Starbuck High School in 1937, the same year that her future husband, L. Arthur (Art) Barsness, graduated from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Vernice and Art met at choir practice soon after graduation and were married in the parsonage of Fron Lutheran Church in 1940. They had three children: Curtis, Barbara, and Bruce. During the war years, and as the wife of a naval officer and the mother of a young boy, Vernice moved frequently, living in Minneapolis, Chicago, Mississippi, Wildwood, NJ, and Glenwood and Starbuck in Minnesota. After the war, she lived in Minneapolis, MN, Ludington, Michigan, St. Louis Park, MN, Aberdeen SD, Alexandria, MN, and then made one final move in 1955 to Fergus Falls where she lived for fifty-six years. Vernice is often remembered as the lady in the dress department at O'Meara's Department Store in downtown Fergus Falls, where she worked for eleven years starting in 1958. She later worked in the Register of Deeds Recording Office at the Otter Tail County courthouse, retiring in 1987. Vernice loved music, and sang in the choir of First Lutheran Church for many years. After retirement she became a member of the Sons of Norway and joined the Norwegian Choir. She was also an active member of circle at her church and associated activities. Vernice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of fifty-five years; two of her children, Curtis and Barbara; her two brothers, Howard Skinner and Ralph Skinner; her sister and lifelong best friend, Ruby Arenson; and daughter-in-law Edna Barsness. She is survived by her son, Bruce Barsness, of New Brighton, MN; and grandson, Michael Barsness, of Plymouth, MN; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, January 21, 2012, at First Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls Clergy: Reverend Jennifer Rose Interment: First Lutheran North Cemetery in Fergus Falls Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of the arrangements.