Ione Vivian Lawrence, 90, Ada, MN, died on Sunday, June 16, 2013, at Essential Health Care Hospital, Ada, MN. Ione was born in Ada on October 28, 1922, to Christ and Helen (Gunderson) Bjerk. Ione's mother died at the age of 33 years old, leaving the older children to care for the household chores. Ione continued to assist with her father's care until her marriage to Thomas Lawrence.

On August 26, 1958, Ione was united in marriage to Thomas Lawrence at Detroit Lakes, MN. They lived in Ada and for a short time in Fargo, ND. They returned to Ada and have remained residences since. In 1982, Thomas died in a snow storm. Ione continued to remain active cleaning homes for area residents. She moved to Valley View Apartments, where she has lived until the present.

Ione was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Ada. She was a social person with a gracious spirit. Though she never had any children, Ione loved to be around them. Family meant a great deal to Ione and she mourned the passing of each of her sisters and brother.

Ione is survived by nine nephews and nieces, countless great nephews and nieces and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and one brother, Norman Bjerk, three sisters: Ardis Youman, Eleanor Bjerk, and Evelyn Nornes.

Memorial service: Monday, June 24, 2013, at 11 AM in Grace Lutheran Church Ada, MN.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church.

Pastor Ken Nyhusmoen, Officiating

Kris Wilkens, Organist

Congregational Hymns

"What A Friend We Have In Jesus"

"How Great Thou Art"

Jack and LaVonne Bjerk, Special Music