Opal Newman, 94, Fergus Falls, MN

Opal Newman

Opal L. Newman, 94, of Fergus Falls, died Thursday, April 17, 2008, at her home.
She was born Oct. 23, 1913, in Crete, N.D., the daughter of Nels and Jennie (Anderson) Enquist. She grew up in North Dakota, attending school in Crete and Milnor.
In 1933, she married Ralph B. Newman. They lived in many small cities in North Dakota over the years with Ralph serving as a principal and superintendent at the schools, including at Taylor, Streeter and Elgin.
During World War II, Opal and her son lived in Fargo while Ralph was serving in the Navy. In November of 1947, they moved to Fergus Falls. In later years they lived in Harlingen and Kerrville, Texas, due to Ralph’s health needs.
Opal enjoyed sewing and upholstery and used those skills to support the family while Ralph got his master’s degree at UND.
She loved making Hardanger embroidery pieces. Antique collecting was another favorite hobby, and they traveled to many shows and had an antique shop in their home while they lived in Fergus Falls. Fishing was one of her favorite pastimes — Opal said she’d “rather fish than eat!”
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Ralph; her brothers, Raymond, Curtis and Mouritz Enquist; and her sisters, Ruth Kupitz and Gladys Gense.
Memorials are preferred to the American Heart Association or Lakeland Hospice.
Survivors include her son, Corby Newman of Willmar; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Monday, at First Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls
Clergy: Revs. Saul Stensvaag and Roger Hanson
Burial: Oak Grove Cemetery, Fergus Falls
Funeral Home: Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls

• Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com