Ernest Kangas

Ernest C. Kangas, age 88, resident of Lakota, ND, died Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at the Good Samaritan Society, Lakota.

Ernest Charles Kangas was born January 8, 1926 on the Kangas farm in Enterprise Township, Nelson County, near Pelto, ND, the son of Charles August and Fannie Elizabeth (Ilkka) Kangas. He started first grade in rural Rubin Township, then attended Pelto Enterprise School for nine years, then attended two years at Whitman High School, graduating as the class Valedictorian. He was in the last class to graduate from Whitman High School before it closed. He lived on the farm in Enterprise Township for 50 years. He served as chairman of the township board for many years. Ernest's father died April 4, 1979 and his mother died October 5, 1979. He moved to East Grand Forks, MN in 1981. Ernest married Jean (Craib) Finney of East Grand Forks on July 18, 1980. Jean died November 11, 1985. Ernest continued living there until recently moving to Lakota. He was a current member of Sarnia United Lutheran Church in Whitman.

Ernest is survived by his sister, Joyce Sommerfeld of Lakota, ND; 3 nieces, Vicki (Donald) Staniszewski of Michigan, ND, and Janice Behm and Marilyn (Chris) Lozano, both of Colorado; and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and a nephew, Edward Sommerfeld.

A Memorial Service will be held at Sarnia United Lutheran Church of Whitman, ND, on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. Officiating will be the Reverend Barb Koenig. Music will be provided by Jason Flom. Interment will be at the Enterprise Cemetery. All of Ernest's friends and family are considered honorary bearers.

In memory of Ernest, memorials are suggested to Pioneer Square in Brocket, ND.