Adeline Erna Jaeger

Adeline E. Jaeger, a beloved mother, sister, and devoted nurse, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024, in Grand Forks, ND, at the age of 89.

Adeline Erna Jaeger was born on May 24, 1935, in Rugby, ND, to Anton “Tony” and Gertrude “Gertie” (Muffenbier) Jaeger. Adeline's early years were filled with hard work and dedication. She attended Little Flower Catholic School in Rugby and later graduated from Rugby High School with the Class of 1953. In her younger days, she worked diligently as a bookkeeper and farm hand demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her family and community. She took on the responsibility of managing Fairmont Ice Cream store for her father.

In1954, Adeline was united in marriage to Selmer Jelsing in Rugby, ND. To this union three children were born: Doyle, Corrine and Carmen. She later married Duane Wilcox in Devils Lake, ND. Duane’s son, Alan joined the family and later a daughter, Gwen was born. 

Adeline eventually fulfilled her calling in nursing, her passion for helping others led her to further her studies in nursing, where she received her LPN certification and began her cherished career at Mercy Hospital in Devils Lake, ND. As a kind and caring nurse, Adeline's compassion and warmth made a significant impact on the lives of her patients and their families.

Adeline treasured her time spent with family, creating warm memories that will be cherished forever. Christmas gatherings and patriotic celebrations on the 4th of July were especially fond occasions for her, filled with joy, laughter, and love. Her family remembers her as a nurturing presence who always knew how to bring everyone together. She was nearly impossible to beat at pinochle, just ask her grandkids!

Beyond the demands of her career and family, Adeline also had a creative side that flourished in her hobbies. She delighted in baking and decorating beautiful wedding cakes, crafting stunning glass lamps, sewing doll dresses, and arranging flower bouquets, which she sold at local craft fairs. Her artistic talents shone through in everything she created, infusing her work with love and care. Adeline also had a passion for travel, with memorable trips to Italy and Germany, as well as weekly visits to the casino that brought her joy. She also cared deeply for her friends, meeting many through the Grand Forks Senior Citizen Center.

Adeline is survived by her loving children: Doyle Jelsing, Alan Wilcox, Corrine Whittle, Carmen Jelsing, and Gwen Boehm; and three siblings: Rosella "Sally" Grabanski, Stanley Jaeger, and Roger Jaeger; 11 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Tony and Gertrude Jaeger, as well as her siblings Richard "Dick" Jaeger, Daniel Jaeger, and Janice Klayson.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00am at Holy Family Catholic Church on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Visitation will take place at the church one hour prior to the service. A private inurnment will take place at a later date in Rugby, ND.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that all memorial donations be sent to the Grand Forks Senior Citizen Center at: 620 4th Ave. S. Grand Forks, ND 58201.

Adeline Erna Jaeger will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her kindness, creativity, and dedication to family will forever be remembered, leaving an enduring legacy of love that will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps. Rest in peace, dear Adeline; your spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those you loved.

 Link to livestream Adeline's funerals:  http://www.facebook.com/holyfamilygf/