Mavis Ahlschwede
May 17, 1924 ~ October 2, 2014
Mavis passed away on October 2, 2014 at Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo, surrounded by her loving family.
Mavis Corien Ponto was born on May 17, 1924 on the farm in Bohnsack Township, near Hillsboro, ND, the daughter of Ernest and Agnes (Onstad) Ponto. She attended Bohnsack Consolidated School and graduated from High School in 1942. She attended Mayville State Teachers College and taught elementary school for five years.
Mavis married Clyde Ahlschwede on June 19, 1948 at St. John Lutheran Church in Hillsboro where she was a member until her marriage and then lived on the Ahlschwede family farm at Grandin, ND and raised her family. She was active at Grace Lutheran Church in Grandin as organist and Sunday School Teacher and served in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League as a unit officer and on the North Dakota Christian and Growth Committee for nine years.
Mavis was interested in music and loved singing in various women’s choruses. She also taught piano to many students and participated in various community organizations. Mavis loved family and friend gatherings, gardening and canning, dancing and playing bridge.
Three daughters were born to the marriage of Clyde and Mavis. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Clyde of West Fargo; his daughters – Sandy (Roger) Mulvaney of Valley City, ND; Janice Funches of Pensacola, FL; and LuAnn (Don) Wee of Clarkston, WA; seven grandchildren – Rory Mulvaney, Jenelle Mulvaney, Ann Funches Staneil, Ellen Funches, Lindsey Wee, Sara (Chris Schillinger) Wee, and Brett Wee; and her three great grandchildren. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews, cousins, and brother-in-law, Nils Buringrud.
Mavis was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Elaine Buringrud; brothers – Truman, Paul, and Gene Ponto; and son-in-law, J.D. Funches.
They retired from farming in 1990 and moved to Fargo in 1993, and there joined Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Grandin ND
Dear Clyde and family, We were so sorry to learn of Mavis’ passing. I so enjoyed visiting with her when I saw her. Our deepest sympathy to you all.
Diane and Bruce Thorsrud
West Fargo ND
I’ll miss Mavis she was enjoying to see her the days I volunteer I’m sorry about your loss in family w/Mavis
Auburn WASending hugs to the family on Mavis’ passing. My parents, Ernie & Helen Moen, were close friends. I can remember visiting the family farm over the years and, during a reunion in the area, visiting with your parents with my mom in tow.
Moorhead MnAs a Grandin girl I always remember Mavis as being a very nice person. We Anderegg girls where one of the threesomes as your girls are. May The Lord look onto all the family at this time with joyful remembrance of your loved one.
Detroit Lakes Minnesota
Corky and I always enjoyed playing bridge with you two. Our best wishes for you and your family.
West Fargo ND
I’ll miss Mavis because I enjoy being w/her,talking & helping when I’m volunteering there
Mason TexasOur heartfelt condolences to you, Clyde, and to the entire family that Mavis loved and was so proud of. May your loss be lighter knowing she is singing with the Angels. If she runs into my Mom, they can play Bridge. She was a lovely and gracious lady. May your loving memories of her bring you comfort and many good laughs. She lives in God’s Glory, shining like a star.