Edna Rediger Onstad passed away peacefully April 20, 2011 at Elkhorn Rehab in Clancy, MT with family members at her side. Edna was born March 5,1918, in Miller, S.D. to Christian and Magdalena Beckler Rediger who were blessed with 13 children.
Edna was preceded in death by husband, Christen Orlando Onstad in 1989 and son Carlin Peter Onstad in 2001.
Edna came to MT in 1936 on a train to Great Falls. Meeting the train was a sister, husband, and twin daughters. Edna helped care for the twins while Elsie had a son born. Edna helped them through a very bad winter After spring work in 1937, Edna worked for the Amondson’s, then later that same year was a cook at the Onstad brothers ranch till Dec. 21st of 1937. Then back on train to Miller, S.D. to be with the family over Christmas.
Edna took a train back to MT in April of 1938 returning to cook on the Onstad ranch. After one week’s work Chris and Edna started dating and in two weeks set their wedding date for May 11, 1938. Married at Our Savior’s Lutheran Parsonage by Pastor Lunde. A fast romance but a lasting one.
Surviving children are Lyla Kay Patterson of Helena; Robert Lee Onstad and wife Maggie Onstad of Fort Benton and Great Falls; Eldest son Carlin and Margaret, his wife raised 4 boys: Michael, Patrick, Vince, and Peter.
Lyla Kay Onstad Blessing, Wieber Patterson had 2 children: Christen Blessing and Kathleen Blessing Majidi. Robert Onstad and former wife Pat have 2 daughters, Gretchen and Jessica. After Robert and Maggie married, the two combined a family of girls: Kara, Katie, Kindi, Megs, Mattie and Gretchen and Jessica.
Chris and Edna farmed north of Carter, MTand also bought a home in Great Falls in 1953 so the 3 children could complete school until each graduated from high school. A time came when they decided to have an easier fun life. Summers spent at Flathead Lake with the Keno Queen boat fishing, winters in Yuma, AZ. since 1978, and summers in Helena since 1983.
Edna’s passion for life involved her immediate family, numerous friends and relatives entertaining and feeding family at each residence. Edna never went unnotices in groups, as she drew onlookers, loved to dance with a partner and set an example of strong German heritage. Edna was a past member of Moose Lodge, Elk’s, Eagles, VFW, Rainbow Garden Club, Daughters of the Nile, Sapphira Temple Dancers, Ladies Champion Bowling League at Little Lanes Bowling Alley in Great Falls.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is scheduled at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 30, 2011 at Our Saviours Lutheran Church, 1326 1st Ave. N, in Great Falls with interment to follow at the Highland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Helena Humane Society, PO Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604 in remembrance of CeCe, her special canine friend and lap dog; Our Saviours Lutheran Church, 1326 1st Ave. N, Great Falls, MT 59401; Susan Komen Race for the Cure, Breast Cancer Survivor, 1066 Helena Ave., Helena, MT 59601 or to an organization of donor’s choice. Local arrangements have been entrusted to Retz Funeral Home. To offer a condolence or share a memory of Edna, please visit, www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Karlee Miller says
Karlee Miller says
Andy was such a special person.
Will always remember the curse that we had together. Her pickles,
prunes, and cheese with cyene pepper. Cowboy boots. And of course the Yukon Jack, and of course the oops. Such a live she had. Karlee Miller
Bev Hill says
What a lady! She lived life with a smile and a joy that was so sweet to see. I helped her at her home for some years and getting to know her was a kick. Please accept my sympathy at your loss.
Gino Dunfee says
Mattie: So sorry for the loss of your grandmother. May your memories hold her close to your heart. Sincerely,