Melba Schwartz, age 97, Fargo, ND, formerly Ada, MN, died Sunday, January 12, 2014, in the home she shared with her daughter, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Melba Ruth Brandt was born June 7, 1916, the daughter of Minnie (Powell) and Paul Brandt in Borup, MN. She graduated from Ada High School and began working as a keyboard operator for the Ada Telephone Company. With the advent of "phones", she then changed career to work as a bank teller for 25 years at the First State Bank of Ada.

Upon retirement, Melba was active in Faith United Church and several community activities in Ada. She was a member of the Ada Garden Club, Friends of the Library, Homemakers Club, Norman County Historical Society, and the Ada VFW Auxiliary.

In 1997, with knee surgery and "the flood" Melba moved to Wahpeton, ND, then to Fargo, ND, living with her daughter, Debbie Olson. Alert until her stroke, Melba enjoyed gardening, latch hook, shopping and antiques--especially attending auction sales. Above all, Melba exceeded in her role as mother, grandmother, aunt, great aunt and friend to many.

Melba is survived by two children, Debbie Olson of Fargo, ND and Larry (Betsy) Olson of Minneapolis, MN; one grandchild, Lauren Olson of Minneapolis, MN; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and Charley her beloved dog and best pal.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ray Schwartz in 1994 and one brother, James Brandt.

Funeral Services were held Saturday, January 18, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. in Faith United Church, Ada. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Officiating was Pastor Karen Finnegan with Solveig Kitchell serving as organist. Casket bearers were Wes Brandt, Dianne Brandt, Dennis Brandt, Charlene Brandt, Tim Brandt and Keith Wiger.

Interment was in the Ada City Cemetery.