LOIS SKARNAGEL BRAKKE

Lois Skarnagel Brakke. 92, a lifelong resident of North and South Dakota, passed from this earth in Andover, MN, on June 12, 2022.

Lois Skarnagel was born on July 16, 1929, on the homesteaded Skarnagel farm in Roberts County, near Claire City, SD.

Lois spent her childhood and youth on the Skarnagel family farm near Claire City, SD. She enjoyed spending time with her grandparents, aunts, uncles and all of the cousins. Lois loved music and sang in the Veblen High School choir while attending Veblen high school. She graduated from Veblen High School. Lois made sure each of her children took piano and band lessons to instill in them an appreciation for music.

After high school Lois attended (Northern Normal College), now known as Northern State Teachers College in Aberdeen, SD. Lois began teaching in a one room rural country school Northeast of Veblen, SD, and at Marlow, SD.

Lois Skarnagel and Earl Brakke were married April 7, 1950. They established their family home on the L.C. Brakke homesteaded farm, Havana, ND, and began a life of farming.

During the active years of Lois’ life on the family farm, she was directly involved in the family’s business affairs. After Earl passed away in 1965, Lois owned and managed all of the farm affairs.

Lois was fully committed to volunteer endeavors, serving the local community in leadership positions for school, church and charitable organizations. Lois was the secretary for the Immanuel Lutheran Church and Cemetery for 65 years. She was also known for her exceptional cooking and baking, love of her family and the devotion to her farm.

Lois’ late life companion was Del Hortness. They enjoyed attending musical and sporting events, listening to music and spending time with family.

Lois is preceded in death by her husband, Earl Brakke.

Lois is survived by her five children: Sharon Christensen, Fridley, MN, LeAnn Brakke Hoehle, Vestavia Hills, Al; Marilyn Brakke, Fridley, MN; Tami Kastner, Oak Grove, MN; Erling Brakke, Conroe, TX.

Lois is survived by her eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, sisters Donna Marshall of Rapid City, SD, Dorothy Anderson of Huntington Beach, CA and one brother, Jon Gederos of Aberdeen, SD.

A private graveside committal will be held at the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery rural Havana, ND; at a date yet to be determined.

The family suggests that memorial gifts be made to: Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery Association, 10062 432nd Ave. Havana, ND, 58043.