Nelda Etier , 63, Minot, formerly of Westhope ND, died Wednesday, October 6, 2010, in her home surrounded by her loving family.

Nelda was born September 4, 1947, in Westhope, ND to Oscar and Verna Klokstad. She was raised and educated in Westhope, graduating from high school in 1965.

After graduation she moved to Minot and worked as a receptionist for a local flying service. She later was employed as a waitress at the North Hill Bowl Restaurant in Minot for a number of years. In 1967, she met her future husband, Jon and they were later married on August 10, 1969.

Their first year of marriage was spent in Lockport, NY near Niagara Falls, NY. Nelda's sparkling personality made such an impression on their new landlord that she was hired to manage one of her local dairy stores called "The Milk House" until their return to Minot in 1971.

Nelda and Jon were blessed with two daughters and a son over the next few years. She became devoted to her family and was active in their daily lives. After the children became self-reliant she was again able to return to work. She was hired by the Select Inn in Minot, and became a valued part of the organization for the next thirteen years.

Nelda was a loving grandmother to her many grandchildren. She spent the remainder of her life as a staple in their lives. A legacy of love is what she left for all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Surviving family includes: Husband of 41 years, Jon, Minot; Children: Darci (Scott) Grosche, David Etier, Donna (LeRoy) Vetsch, all of Minot; Grandchildren: Travis, Tyler, Tanner, Tristen and Trevor Grosche; Macinda, BreAnne, Conley Vetsch; Siblings: Nola (Donald) Biberdorf, Bottineau; Oline (Larry) Klabo, Landa; Vernetta (Danny) Kirk, Westhope; and numerous nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents (Oscar and Verna Klokstad), her brother (Verdine Klokstad), and nephew (Perry Persson).

Funeral Service : Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in First Presbyterian Church, Minot.
Visitation : Tuesday, October 12, 2010 from 2-7 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Internment : Sunset Memorial Gardens, Minot
Memorials are preferred to Nelda's favorite charity, Easter Seals.