Elaine Otterson-Hoefs
June 20, 1933 ~ February 6, 2021
Elaine Otterson-Hoefs, 87 of Fargo, ND passed away on February 6, 2021 at Bethany Retirement Home under the care of Hospice.
She was born June 20, 1933 in Richland County, ND to Marcus and Rose Berg. She married Vern Otterson and had two daughters, Shelly and Patti. They later divorced and she met Darv Hoefs; they were happily married for 31 years. Once retired, Elaine and Darv traveled cross country in their fifth-wheeler, later making Texas their home. They eventually returned back to Fargo to be closer to family. Elaine was a talented country western singer and recorded many albums in Nashville, making it to the top charts for independent labels. The songs she wrote and sang were on many radio channels. She was artistic in many ways besides just her singing, many will remember her print shop designs. In her years of singing, she made many friends and always loved a jam session at the lake and anywhere they traveled.
Elaine’s smile and personality would light up any room. She will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to all she met. We know she is at peace in heaven because of her strong faith in the Lord.
Elaine is survived by her children Shelly Otterson, Patti (Darin) Vetsch; Grandchildren Jesse (Claire) Vetsch, Ellie Vetsch; Brother Herb Berg; Sister Joanne Mathison; and many step children.
Preceded in death by parents Marcus and Rose Berg; Husband Darv Hoefs; and brother Milo Berg.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the caring staff of Bethany Retirement Home and Hospice.
So sorry to hear of Elaine’s passing. We loved our short time we shared with her at HLC. She was truly a gem. My sympathy to you all.
My deepest condolences to the family of Elaine. She was my first cousin as
her dad and my dad were brothers. RIP, Elaine.
Lois (Berg) Walker
Marion, Iowa
Patti and family- so sorry to hear the passing of your mom – she sounds like a wonderful woman who brought joy to many! Now I know where you got it from! The grief of loosing a loved one can be so difficult- but I hope with time your memories will bring you peace and comfort. Please let me know if you need anything.
I’m sorry to hear about Elaine passing. She was a good singer n friends where ever she met. My mom(Gladys) n Hank went to see her or she listened to Hanks playing. God bless to your family
Patti & Shelly —
So sorry to hear of your mom’s death. Years ago I recalled that she’d gone to Nashville to record and, wanting to hear her music, had gotten a 45 of hers but had no turntable. I searched again recently and got the Lonesome Side of Town LP and asked my son to digitize it; he just sent it to me minutes ago — very much looking forward to hearing it. In searching for cover art I found this obit page.
I think of you all when driving past the old place on 81. While Carrie & my parents are gone (my mom died after many years at Bethany, coincidentally), Carrie still lives south of your old place across from where Salem church was, so I’m driving past not infrequently to visit her and her hubby.
I remember talking to your dad about his TV repair; my amazement at his understanding of the complex electronics led to my interest in the same; I took an electronics course at South High and always figured I’d end up in electrical engineering. Though I took a different path, I am still active in ham radio.
I would love to hear about what’s happened in your lives since our days eons ago as kids “south of the Bowler.” I hope you and your families are doing well.
Bucky
dsjohnson@mac.com