Arliss Abrahamson

Arliss Ione Varnson Abrahamson passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, at Sanford Hospital, Fargo, ND on April 15, 2018 (coincidentally the 40th anniversary of the death of her late husband Abe).

Arliss was born on June 21, 1932 in Grand Forks, ND to Edward and Agnes Bratvold Varnson.  She grew up in a home where her church, Rodnes Lutheran Church, Erskine, MN played a big role in her life.  After her graduation from Mentor High School, she attended Moorhead State Teachers College.  She earned her 2-year degree and also met Glendon “Abe” Abrahamson.  They were united in marriage August 22, 1953 and made their home in Greenbush, MN, Red Lake, MN and finally settled down in New York Mills.  Arliss and Glendon were blessed with four children, Laurine, Daidre, Brian, and Ann. 

In 1974, Arliss returned to Moorhead State University and completed her four-year teaching degree.  In addition to teaching in Lake Park and Greenbush Schools, Arliss taught 3rd grade in New York Mills for over 25 years.  She had a love of books/reading and introduced her students to her favorite authors.  Anyone who had Mrs “A” as a teacher will tell you about Roald Dahl, her all-time favorite children’s author.  In addition, she was involved in being a Campfire Girl Leader for over 8 years, was an organist for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, and taught piano lessons to many local youth for years.

At the age of 45, Arliss unexpectedly lost her husband Abe.  She proved to be a strong-willed woman who continued to teach 3rd grade and be a wonderful mother to her children.  Once her children were out of the nest, Arliss began to travel with friends and had many adventures and stories to share.  Arliss was a proud Norwegian who took every opportunity to remind you that two people exist: “those who are Norwegians and those who wish they were”.  Arliss also was an accomplished seamstress and became highly skilled at quilt making.  She has made numerous quilts for her family and loved ones over the years.

Arliss is preceded in death by her spouse of 25 years Glendon “Abe” Abrahamson; her parents: Ed and Agnes Varnson: stepmother, Marian Varnson.  She is survived by her four children Laurine (David) Braukmann; Daidre (Andrew) Klinnert; Brian (Jean) Abrahamson; and Ann (Rob) Reynolds; step-sister, Cheryl Harms; step-brother, Myles (Shirley) Bakken; ten grandchildren: Erica, Jake, Kristine, Noel, Aaron, Evan, Lea, Brett, John, and Adam, and 11 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and many friends. 

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