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Vernice Barsness, 92, of Fergus Falls
Published 10:08am Wednesday, January 18, 2012 Updated 12:11pm Wednesday, January 18, 2012Vernice Barsness, died Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, at PioneerCare Center in Fergus Falls.
She was born March 29, 1919, in Starbuck, the third of four children born to Roy and Julia Skinner. Named Lucile Vernice, she always preferred her middle name. Vernice was baptized in Terrace at her grandparents’ home by the Rev. Beito and confirmed at Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck, by the Rev. Johnshoy.
She graduated from Starbuck High School in 1937, the same year that her future husband, L. Arthur (Art) Barsness, graduated from St. Olaf College in Northfield. Vernice and Art met at choir practice soon after graduation and were married in the parsonage of Fron Lutheran Church in 1940. They had three children: Curtis, Barbara, and Bruce.
During the war years, and as the wife of a naval officer and the mother of a young boy, Vernice moved frequently, living in Minneapolis, Chicago, Mississippi, Wildwood, N.J., and Glenwood and Starbuck in Minnesota.
After the war, she lived in Minneapolis, Ludington, Michigan, St. Louis Park, Aberdeen, S.D., Alexandria, and then made one final move in 1955 to Fergus Falls, where she lived for 56 years.
Vernice is often remembered as the lady in the dress department at O’Meara’s Department Store in downtown Fergus Falls, where she worked for 11 years starting in 1958.
She later worked in the Register of Deeds Recording Office at the Otter Tail County Courthouse, retiring in 1987.
Vernice loved music, and sang in the choir of First Lutheran Church for many years.
After retirement she became a member of the Sons of Norway and joined the Norwegian Choir. She was also an active member of circle at her church and associated activities.
Vernice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 55 years; two of her children, Curtis and Barbara; her two brothers, Howard Skinner and Ralph Skinner; her sister and lifelong best friend, Ruby Arenson; and daughter-in-law Edna Barsness.
She is survived by her son, Bruce Barsness, of New Brighton; and grandson, Michael Barsness, of Plymouth; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church
Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, at First Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls
Clergy: Rev. Jennifer Rose
Burial: First Lutheran North Cemetery, Fergus Falls
Funeral Home: Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls
Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com
