Christine Clark

Christine Clark, 103, Cando, ND formerly of Churchs Ferry died Saturday December 11, 2010 at the Good Samaritan Center in Devils Lake.

Christine was born August 10, 1907 to Henry and Emma (Schultz) Barenscher in Churchs Ferry where she was raised and educated. She married Norman Clark in 1925 who had two children, Wayne and Norma “Sue”, and together they had three children: Peggy, Betty and Ellen Ann. They farmed near Churchs Ferry. Christine was an active farm wife and mother. Norman passed away in 1945, but she continued with the responsibilities of farming and raising her family. In 1976, she moved to Cando.

Christine’s hearty laugh and personality was immediately recognized. She proudly shared her talents with others as a charter member of the Irvine Homemakers Club, a long-time 4-H leader and member of the Eastern Star. Many in Cando remember and benefited from her skillful sewing and alterations. The afghans she lovingly crocheted are cherished by many, especially her grandchildren. Everybody loved to see her carrying her picnic basket knowing it was full of fresh-baked bread, rolls or pastries. She enjoyed showing and telling stories of the tea pots she collected.

Christine’s faith and fellowship with others was maintained by her involvement in her church and Bible study groups. She aged with grace by dressing with class and remaining fit. She was well into her 60’s when she began riding bike and for years could be seen peddling all around Cando. Her health and wit remained strong until after her 100th birthday celebration after which it began to decline.

Christine is survived by her daughter: Peggy (Allan) Shock-Overland, Cando; grandchildren: Donald (Linda) Shock, Gary (Lynette) Shock, Joel Shock, Tami Newell, Lou Ann Fowler, Sandra (Scott) Kirby, James Melhus, David Melhus; two step-grandchildren: Norman (Denise) Clark and Terry (Karlene) Clark ; step-daughter-in-law Virginia Clark; granddaughter-in-law Cindy (Shock) Nelms; 20 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband Norman; daughters: Betty Newell and Ellen Ann Melhus; step-son Wayne Clark; step-daughter Norma “Sue” Denton; two brothers: Paul and Otto Barenscher; sisters: Matilda Hannon, Hulda Barenscher, Bertha Swartz and Rosina Larson; and her grandson Allen (Cindy) Shock.

Funeral Service: United Methodist Church, Cando on Thursday, December 16, 2010 at 2:00

Visitation: Dunnigan-Dix Funeral Home from 2:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Interment: I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Cando, ND in the spring.

Please accept my prayers and thoughts for you and your family. I got to know Christine during the time my mother, Millie Oleson, was a resident of the Good Sam. They shared a table in the dining room for quite some time. Christine was a delightful person, filled with wit and wry humor. I always enjoyed visiting with her. She always talked about her family, especially Peggy. God bless you all. It's never easy to say goodbye to your Mom, I know because I had to say goodbye to mine on May 4 of this year.

Christine Clark was a very dear friend of mother and of our family. Her wonderful laugh will always be remembered. She was a very kind, talented and gracious person who lived a long and fruitful life. May she rest in peace and enjoy her tea. My love to her family.

I have fond memories of 4-H camp with Christine. She always slept in her car, while we 4-Hers shared a big tent. Christine's ever-present tea went with her to camp. She was one of my favorite people.