Myrtice Espelien

Myrtice Catherine Espelien, daughter of Conrad and Mathilda (Monson) Maanum, was born June 25, 1914 in Hoff Township in Pope County, Minnesota, where she grew up. She was baptized and confirmed at West Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hancock, Minnesota. Myrtice attended and graduated from Benson High School. Following her schooling, she worked at JC Penny’s and at Fingerhut in Benson, Minnesota for five years. On May 19, 1946, she was united in marriage to Edward L. Espelien at West Zion Lutheran Church. Following their marriage, the couple farmed south of Starbuck, where they also raised their two sons. She was a caring and devoted mother and wife who always had a very welcoming home. They retired in 1974 and Edward died in October of 1987. Myrtice has made her home in Starbuck since 1951.

Myrtice was a member of East Zion Lutheran Church, where she served on the ladies aide and as Luther League advisor. She was also a member of the VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, making quilts, baking, cooking, gardening, playing piano, going to the Senior Center for lunch, fishing and exchanging recipes. She especially enjoyed playing cards, in particular, Hand/Foot and Whist; and playing Bingo. She was an avid Minnesota Twins fan, rarely missing an opportunity to watch their games. She also enjoyed old time hymn music, reading the bible and newspaper, pioneer stories, writing her autobiography and car rides. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Myrtice was a gracious, thoughtful, loving lady and always had a kind word to say about everyone she met. She was beloved by all who had the pleasure to know her.

Myrtice died on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at the Stevens Community Medical Center in Morris, MN. She recently celebrated her 95 ^th birthday with a party held in her honor attended by over 150 people.

She is survived by two sons: Douglas (Seyem) Espelien of Boseman, MT and Gordon Espelien (Shelly Grimsley) of Starbuck; six grandchildren: Michelle Fenton, Melissa Espelien, Peter Espelien, Sheila Espelien, Darcee Espelien and Doris Capps; two great-grandchildren: Stella and Winnie Fenton; two sisters: Madelyn Danielson and Irene Kamrud both of Starbuck; two sisters-in-law: Jean Mannum and Franny Maanum both of Benson. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two brothers: Randall and Junior Maanum and two brothers-in-law: Melvin Kamrud and Arnold Danielson.

Pallbearers for the service are: Dennis Stadsvold, Paul Danielson, John Danielson, Gary Maanum, Darrell Espelien and Keith Naig. Monica Gosseling will serve as organist for the service. Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck is in charge of the arrangement.