Gladys Laverne Opperud

Gladys Laverne (Meine) Opperud, 94, of Crookston, MN, went home to her Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, at Riverview ER in Crookston, surrounded by her loving family. She was born to loving parents Henry and Christine (Abrahamson) Meine on Feb 23, 1931 and was baptized soon after.

Gladys spent her childhood working hard on the family farm, and she walked many miles selling garden seeds. Her life on the farm cemented her love for all animals, starting with her horse May and continuing in her life with all her family pets. Her education began at Polk County Country School, where she graduated from the 8th grade in 1945, and was confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church the same year. She then went on to attend the Northwest School of Agriculture. She proudly obtained her GED from Central High School in 1968 to show her children the importance of an education. 

Gladys met the love of her life, Raymond Opperud, in 1948. They were married on May 6, 1950 during the big flood. Together, they lovingly raised their nine children in the home that Ray built for them. They truly had a once-in-a-lifetime love, and were inseparable for the 61 years of marriage that they were blessed with. In 1951, Ray and Gladys opened Grand View Grocery store, having their children working right alongside Gladys, learning valuable life lessons in the process. Gladys created a warm and loving environment that is cherished and remembered fondly by those she served. 

Gladys loved cooking and having a pot of coffee ready for anyone that visited. Her compassionate and loving demeanor made everyone who walked through the front door feel at home. She also found joy in gardening, canning, camping, and fishing trips with her family. Her egg dish and salsa recipes are family favorites still to this day. Gladys’ love for her family knew no bounds, she was famous for making her angel food cake for birthdays and her mints for weddings. She treasured every opportunity to share in her families’ joys and celebrate their successes.

Gladys was active in the VFW Post 1902 Ladies Auxiliary in Crookston. She held many positions, including secretary, chaplain, and president. She also served as 9th District Auxiliary President. Both her and Ray visited many hospitalized veterans in the area. Gladys was a dedicated member of Wesley United Methodist Church, serving on the church council for many years. She was always a willing volunteer, helping at many church functions and events. Her most cherished role in the church was being a member of the United Methodist Women, she held numerous offices, including president. She enjoyed drinking coffee, planning events, and studying the Bible with these very special ladies.

Gladys leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, reminding us all of the importance of family, community, and the simple joys of life.

Gladys is survived by her children, Allan (Debbie) Opperud, of Elk River, MN, Julie (Gary) Krueger, of Fosston, MN, Bonnie Pahlen, of Red Lake Falls, MN, Gary (Mary) Opperud, of Blaine, MN, Rose (Tony) Borslien, of West Fargo, ND, Curtis (Gloria) Opperud, of Fargo, ND, Mary Jo (Brian) Halos, of Crookston, MN, and Lynette Woolever, of Crookston, MN; son-in-law, Jody Domier, of Colorado Springs, CO; and sister-in-law, Carol (Willard) Meine, of Crookston, MN. Her grandmotherly love will be cherished by 27 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and one great-greatgrandchild. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Christine (Abrahamson) Meine; husband, Raymond Opperud; daughter, Diane Domier; son-in-law, Frank Pahlen, six baby brothers; siblings, Duane, Elsworth, Willard, Helen Swift and Clara Klooz; brother-in-law’s, Cecil Swift and Edward Klooz; sister-in-law Carol (Elsworth) Meine; and great-granddaughter Kasandra Hedland.

A prayer service will be held at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home in Crookston on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. with visitation two hours prior. The funeral service will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one-hour prior, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Crookston. Interment will be on Friday at Oakdale Cemetery in Crookston, following the funeral service. A luncheon will be served at Wesly United Methodist Church after the service on Friday. Services will be livestreamed, the link to which will be available at www.stenshoelhouske.com/obituaries/gladys-opperud.