Ethel Phalen

Ethel Phalen, age 76, of Graceville, died Tuesday, June 30, 2015, at Essentia Health in Graceville.

A garden prayer service will be held on Saturday, August 8th , 2015 at 2:30 p.m. at her home 417 W 2nd street in Graceville, MN.

Ethel Phalen was born January 25, 1939 in Graceville, Mn. to Earl and Della (Bump) Layman. She was raised in Graceville, confirmed at the Congregational Church, and graduated from Graceville Public High School in 1957. Ethel's teenage years were spent playing baseball. She was a "tomboy" and everyone in town wanted her to be on their team. She could out hit, out run, and out catch with the best of them. Her nephews and others thought she was the best.

On December 27, 1958 Ethel married James Phalen. They made their home in Graceville, where they raised their three children. They enjoyed riding their motorcycle, sunny days in their boat on Lake Toqua, or just driving around visiting friends. On many of these outings their best friend "Ole" Townsend was with them. Ethel enjoyed bowling and going to bowling tournaments out of town with her best friends. She also spent time reading and shopping with her sister Mary Ann. Later in life, she loved gardening, yardwork, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Ethel's family includes, sons James (April) of Stanley, ND, Tom of Graceville and friend Mona Elllis, daughter Nancy "Vicki" (Doug) Dulmage, Leeds ND.

Grandchildren: Neil (Jennifer) Phalen, Kristin (David) Tritz, Steven Phalen, Josh Phalen, Shannon Phalen (fiance Mike Bjorg), Madilyn (Madi) Dulmage, Elizabeth (Libby) Dulmage.

Great grandchildren: Ellie Phalen, Gwen Phalen , Parker Tritz, Austin Tritz and Kolbee Bjorg.

Sisters: Jean Setterlund of Minneapolis, MN, Mary Ann Weick of Graceville, MN, Joan Wawers of Wahpeton, ND, Claire Beck of Minot, ND and many nieces and nephews.

Ethel was preceded in death by her husband James, parents Earl and Della, seven brothers and two sisters.

Thanks to "shaggy" for being her constant companion and best friend.