Ivy, 1907-2009

We received word on Friday that the Husband's Grandmother passed way, so Tuesday and Wednesday were spent on a trip to Fergus Falls for the funeral. This was by no means a tragic event - she was 101 years and 4 months old. For the last several years she resided in the Battle Lake Nursing Home. She was formerly of Underwood, MN and Amor, MN. All small rural farming communities around the Fergus Falls area.

Ivy was the last surviving sibling of 7 children: Maurice, Murray, Charles, Frone, Flora and Ann. She was born on Oct 31, 1907 in Maine Township of Otter Tail County, MN, to James and Hattie (York) Burns. Her family owned and operated Burn's store, and old time general store where Ivy was employed as a clerk. She enjoyed going to local barn dances and swimming in the area's numerous lakes.



On Dec 31, 1927 she married Leonard F. They continued to reside in the Maine Twp until 1941 when they moved to Amor Twp and took over the ownership and operation of the Amor Store. Ivy was not only in charge of the store when Leonard was working but also proceeded to raise their 12 children.



Ivy was a hard worker who enjoyed her family and friends. Her hobbies included gardening, crocheting afghans and playing cards and scrabble. She is also remembered as the Amor school cook by many of the local "kids". I found it poignant that one of the funeral home directors remembered her for her special cheese bread - a combination of bread, cheese and spices that only Ivy knew how to make.

She left behind 9 children, 30 grand children, 35 great grand children and 7 great-great grandchildren.

It is unfortunate that three sons preceded her in death: Bob, 1995; Jim, 2007; and Ronnie (Vietnam). Also preceding her were her parents and her 6 siblings.



I feel honored that I was able to meet this remarkable woman and I am even more amazed at all the historic events she lived through.