Fern Mae (Galusha) Vannett , 82, 1407 13th St. NW, Minot, died Saturday, November 18, 2006, at her home.

Fern was born on February 14, 1924, to Sid and Metta (Zorn) Galusha in Minot. She grew up on the family farm in South Prairie and attended a one room country school through the eighth grade. She then attended Minot High School, graduating in 1943. As a young adult she worked at Mandan Creamery, the bakery at Marago's Store and was a clerk at Lowe's Grocery. She married Garfield Hegle on February 5, 1947, and they had two daughters through this union.

Fern went to work at Trinity Hospital as a nurses aid, and worked there for twenty-four years. In January of 1978 she married Lester Vannett at Zion Lutheran Church in Minot. They enjoyed traveling and dancing together until Lester's death in 1988. After Fern retired in the mid 1980's, she kept busy, helping as a cook at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren School where her grandson attended. She also spent a few years helping with her daughter's day care.

Fern and her cousin, Selma, took a trip to Israel, which was one of the highlights, of her life. She also enjoyed photography, taking pictures around her church, family, and for special occasions, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family, going to lunch with them and taking short trips with them.

Fern was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, the Minot Camera Club, the City Art League, the North West Polkateers, an usher at the church, and served on the church council during the time they were working toward building a new church.

In 1997, she met her friend Bob Linnertz. They spent a lot of time going dancing and playing cards.

She is survived by her daughters: Angie (Dan) Wenzel, Charlene (Mark) Hofer; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; four step-sons; one step-daughter; sister: Joyce Herdt; two sister-in-laws; special friend: Bob Linnertz; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Fern was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Lester Vannett; brothers: Wayne and Herbert Galusha; Niece: Terry Galusha; and Step-grandson: Travis Ott.

Funeral Service : Tuesday, November 21, 2006, at 1:00 p.m. in Our Savior Lutheran Church, Minot.
Interment : Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot, ND.
Visitation : Family and friends are invited to sign a memorial register book one hour prior to the start of the funeral service.