Ila Mae Bernice Wigen

Ila Mae Bernice (Dronen) Wigen, 82, Finley, North Dakota died Friday, March 11, 2011 at the Luther Memorial Home in Mayville, North Dakota. Ila Mae was born on January 16, 1929 in Franklin Township, Steele County, North Dakota, the daughter of Carl and Betsie (Brakke) Dronen. She attended elementary school in Franklin Township #3 & #4 and then Sharon High School. Upon graduating she earned her teaching certificate from Mayville State College. Ila Mae taught country school 3 years in Newburgh and Franklin Townships, in Steele Co. Ila Mae married Orlando Wigen of Finley, ND on December 20, 1950 in Aneta, ND. They made their home in Easton Township until 1972 before moving to Finley. In addition to being a farm wife Ila Mae was employed by the Steele County ASCS Office for 20 years. They had five children, Scott, Lori, Randall, Jeffrey and Karla. She was an active member of Finley Lutheran Church serving on several committees and participating in women’s groups and bible studies. She was a member and officer of the American Legion Auxiliary and enjoyed time with several local community activities. Ila Mae was extremely proud of her bowling accomplishments and her golfing attempts. Her favorite activities include volunteering, crosswords, embroidery, bridge club, reading, gardening, bird watching and the Red Hat Ladies. Ila Mae’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. Ila Mae is survived by: her husband of 60 years, Orlando of Finley; Three sons, Scott (Norette) of Orange Beach, AL; Randall (Jan) of Fargo, ND; Jeff (significant other Becky) of Finley, ND; Two daughters, Lori Saltness of Stevenson, WA and Karla (Brad) Thykeson of Portland, ND; Nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; Brother: Carroll of Finley; Sisters-in-law, Grace Dronen of Mayville and Joan Dronen of Fargo, ND; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her Parents, Brothers: Orville, Elvin, Richard, Vernal; Sisters: Alice Carlson, Marilyn Grunseth and Grandson, Jared Saltness. Visitation: 5-7 PM Tuesday, March 15, 2011 with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the Quam-Plaisted-Cushman Funeral Home in Finley, ND and will resume one hour prior to the funeral service, at the church. Funeral: 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at Finley Lutheran Church, Finley, ND. Interment: Finley Cemetery, in the spring.