Alma Melland
Alma Melland, 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, at her Arbor House residence in Williston.
Alma was born on June 25, 1922, at the family homestead in Timber Creek Township to parents Cora (Hagenston) Olson and Carl Olson. Alma was one of 12 children born to Cora and Carl. Alma had fond memories of growing up, helping her mother around the house, doing chores with her brothers and sisters, and joining in whatever shenanigans were about to break out in or out of the house. Life was hard but her faith in God and a great sense of humor enabled her to weather any storm.
Alma attended a rural school near Timber Creek until 8th grade. Although her lack of formal schooling ended at that point she continued to be an invaluable educator to her family and friends throughout her life by passing on the values and knowledge she learned through her experiences.
Alma married Clarence Melland at Trinity Lutheran Church in Alexander on September 21, 1946. Together Alma and Clarence enjoyed 59 years of marriage while living in Alexander and raising six children.
Alma was a baptized and confirmed member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Alma was faithful and proud of her church, her family, and her country. Alma was an active member of the Alexander community serving on local boards and committees, but was most dedicated as a loving wife, mother and servant to God. Alma loved to cook, can, and bake - especially pies, which she gave away freely. Alma also loved to garden, and enjoyed growing and receiving flowers - especially roses.
Alma is survived by a son, Curtis Melland and his wife Sandra of Hazen, N.D.; a daughter in-law, Char Melland of Hazen, N.D.; a daughter, Georgia Fagerland and her husband Ron of Coulterville, Ill.; a son, John Melland and his wife Janice of Fargo, N.D.; and a son, Gary Melland and his wife Linda of Watford City, N.D.; Alma is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.
Alma was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence; her parents, Cora and Carl; five brothers, Carl, Hugo, George, Art, and Arnold; four sisters, Esther, Margaret, Sylvia, and Ida, an infant sister Olson, an infant boy Olson; and two sons, Dennis and Timothy.
Everson Coughlin Funeral Home in Williston is in charge of arrangements.
Funeral services for Alma Florence (Olson) Melland of Williston, formerly of Alexander will be held at 10 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Alexander on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017, Pastor Kevin Beard officiating. Interment will follow at Alexander Cemetery.
Friends may visit www.eversoncoughlin.com to share remembrances of Alma or leave condolences for her family. Friends may also call the church on Wednesday, Jan. 18, for the hour preceding the service.