Esther Garman

Esther Garman, 97 of Ellendale, ND died April 1, 2016 at Prince of Peace Care Center, Ellendale. She was born July 8, 1918 at Elgin, ND and was raised and educated in the Leola, SD area. As a young woman she worked in Leola for several families caring for their elderly relatives. Esther married Ray Garman on December 30, 1941 at the Presbyterian Church in Wetonka, SD. They lived on the Garman family farm for about a year and later purchased a farm down the road where they lived and farmed until October 1957. After selling their farm they moved to Ellendale. After arriving in Ellendale, Esther began cleaning homes for many Ellendale families. Over the years she also worked for Brandy’s Recreation, Ellendale Hospital, The Octagon Restaurant and Dakota Dental Care. She retired at the age of 89. Esther was a member of the Presbyterian United Methodist Church, Ellendale. She loved being with her relatives and friends. She also took great pride in her flower and vegetable gardens. Esther had a special circle of coffee and birthday group friends that she enjoyed spending a great deal of time with. Esther is survived by her daughter Sharlene Gusaas, Bismarck, ND, three grandchildren: Jason (Ainsley) Gusaas, Silverthorne, CO; Cory (Sarah) Gusaas, Corvallis, MT; Joey (Michelle) Gusaas, Bismarck, ND; 8 great-grandchildren: Ethan & Gabe Gusaas, James, Eleanore, Philip & Muriel Gusaas, Rylan & Livia Gusaas and several nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and son-in-law Jerry Gusaas. The funeral is 11am Thursday, April 7 at Presbyterian United Methodist Church, Ellendale with Pastor Paul Henschen officiating. Visitaiton is 5-8pm Wednesday with a prayer service at 7pm both at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Visitation will continue one hour prior to church services. Burial is at Ellendale City Cemetery. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel.