September 5, 2012

Alma Opsta

Alma D. Opsta, 93, of Watford City, N.D., passed away Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012, at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Watford City. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012, at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Watford City. Pastor Rob Favorite officiated and the interment followed at Garden Valley Cemetery. Alma Dorothy Opsta was born Oct. 9, 1918, to Daniel and Annie (Nyhus) Miner in Nesson Valley Township, Williams County, North Dakota. She was raised on the family farm and educated in the Nesson School District and at Wheelock. On Nov. 16, 1937, Alma was united in marriage to Helmer Opsta in Sidney, Mont. The couple made their home at Banks, Watford City and Charlson primarily, as Helmer was employed by Amerada Hess in the first oil production years. Alma was very independent and multi- talented and balanced the responsibilities of raising a family and caring for the farm operation. She also worked as the relief postmistress at Charlson while they lived there. She loved people and loved sharing her talents with others; be it at work or for the church. When Helmer died in January of 1985, Alma moved to Watford City. Alma was an active member of First Lutheran Church in Watford City and Patience Circle. She was also active in the church quilting program and a past member of the Hospital Auxiliary. She was an avid reader, and played the piano by ear. She also enjoyed camping and fishing with her family and earned many “whopper” patches and prizes for her fishing abilities. Over the years, they spent a lot of quality time at the lake, New Town Marina, and later at Tobacco Gardens. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Michael) Ranum, of Bismarck, N.D.; son, Bruce Opsta, of Williston, N.D.; nine grandchildren, Kelly Lee, Brian Lee, Wade Lee, Denise Opsta, Cari Opsta, Sharon Steffler, Darrin Opsta, and step-grandchildren, Andrew and Mark Ranum; 14 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Helmer; son, Dennis Opsta; daughter, Audrey Lee; infant daughter, Sharon Opsta; brothers, Arthur, Floyd, Irving, Danard, Maurice; and sisters, Myrtle and Gladys. Friends may share memories and condolences with the family at www.fulkersons.com.

WATFORD CITY WEATHER