Eva L. Folin, daughter of Alfred and Mathilda (Bengsten) Folin, was born December 17, 1899 in Stillwater, Minnesota. At the age of 4, she and her family moved to Center City, MN, where they lived for three years. In 1907, they moved to Cyrus, MN, where she grew up and attended public school. She later transferred to Morris, where she graduated. Following high school, she continued her education at St. Cloud Teacher's College, as it was then called. She began her 30 years of public school teaching in Villard in 1920. In 1922 and 1923, she attended Lutheran Bible Institute for one year and then returned to public school activities or teaching. She was also interested in teaching piano and spent many hours preparing for her diploma and certificate. She received her credentials both from the American Conservatory and the Sherwood Music Academy of Chicago, IL. She taught piano for 66 years. On June 18, 1934, she was united in marriage to Magnus C. Pederson. Magnus died in 1955.
For 50 years, Eva was director of the church choir and church organist. Her interest in sharing her love for Jesus Christ, also led her to teach Sunday school, bible classes, daily vacation bible school and direct children's conference at Lake Koronis Bible Camp in Paynesville, MN for 10 years.
Eva was a member of St. Petri Lutheran Church and also Cyrus Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was an active with the WELCA and other women's groups. She was also a member of the Women's Study Club for 60 years and directed the community Christmas sing for 30 years.
Eva died on Monday, November 14, 2005 at the Minnewaska Lutheran Home in Starbuck, having lived to reach the age of 105 years.
She is survived by two nieces and five nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two brothers: George and Conrad Folin and two sisters: Grace and Alfhild Folin.
Gorden Thompson will serve as organist for the service with Sheryle Dahl serving as soloist and special music provided by the Trinity Lutheran Chancel Choir. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.