Ardus I. Wangen, 100, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

Ardus Idella Lerum was born July 12, 1914, in Freeborn County, Minnesota, to Ole and Thora Lerum. She graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1933, and later attended the University of Winona, where she received a bachelor’s degree in education. On Sept. 24, 1938, Ardus and Arthur Wangen were united in marriage at Oakland Lutheran Church, Oakland, Minnesota. Arthur passed away in 1981. Ardus enjoyed 42 years as a teacher in rural Freeborn and Mower counties, serving grades 1 through 8 in one- and two-room schools. She finished her career in the Hayfield school district. The Wangens farmed near Hayward, and then in the Rose Creek area before purchasing the Mission Garden/Westward Inn Motel in Austin. Ardus enjoyed traveling and church activities. She was a member of the Grace Baptist Church, the Sons of Norway, Travel Club, Retired Teachers, the Christian Women’s Club and served as travel coordinator for the Hormel Home. Ardus will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Ardus is survived by her children: David (Marilyn) Wangen of Duluth, Minnesota, Gail (Bill) Kawamura of Denver, Colorado, Kay Johnson of Austin, Wendy (Harry) Musser of Mankato, Minnesota, Vicki Bjork of Austin, and Toni (David) Anderson-Wangen of Brimson, Minnesota; 26 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ole and Thora Lerum; her husband Arthur Wangen; three brothers; an infant daughter; and son-in-law Eugene Bjork.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, 2014, at Grace Baptist Church in Austin with the Rev. Brett Williams officiating. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. immediately preceding the service. Interment will be in the Oakland Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Grace Baptist Church, Austin American Legion, Austin V.FW, or recipient of donor’s choice. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.