Janice M. Ellenson

Janice Marilyn Ellenson, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on April 1, 1937, Janice was raised in Casselton, North Dakota, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with love and dedication.

In July of 1954, she married John Hersch, and together, they forged a remarkable life on their farm in Ayr, North Dakota, before returning to Casselton in 1961. As a devoted stay-at-home mom, Janice nurtured their eight children. When the children were at school, she worked at Dairy Queen.

Janice pursued her passion for hairstyling by graduating from Joseph’s School of Hairdressing, leading to a fulfilling career at Regis Beauty Salon. In 1977, Janice fulfilled a dream by purchasing Audubon Beauty Salon, serving clients with creativity and care until she shifted her focus to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). After John suffered a stroke, Janice became his primary caregiver. He later passed October 6, 2000.

In October 2009, Janice married Glenn Ellenson, who brought happiness into her life until his passing in April 2015. Janice loved spending time at the lake, enjoyed golfing, and embraced her retirement with enthusiasm. She especially loved going to High Mileage at the church every month, meeting with friends, enjoying delicious food, and gathering together in prayer.

Janice is survived by her children, Eugene Hersch, Valerie Gerdes, Mike (Amy) Hersch, Doug (Diane) Hersch, Laurie (Joe) LaGard, and Lynn (Vickie) Hersch; brothers Raymond (Carolyn) Murdock and David Murdock; sisters Barbara (Mark) Tomason and Bonnie Swanson; 16 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her first husband John Hersch, her second husband Glenn Ellenson, parents James and Mildred Murdock; brother Jim Murdock; son Rick Hersch; and daughter Beverly Tougas.

A prayer service will take place at 7:00 PM on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo, ND, with visitation an hour prior. A funeral mass will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, with visitation an hour prior. Burial will be at the St. Leo’s Cemetery, Casselton, North Dakota. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Boulger Funeral Home.