Florence Lila

Holmen

Florence Lila Holmen, age 102, of Horace, North Dakota, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2026.

Florence was born on June 21, 1924, on the Rekken home farm to Arthur and Helga Rekken. She completed 12 years of schooling and, on December 12, 1942, married the love of her life, Garfield Holmen. Together, they farmed for many years until their retirement. They were blessed with two children, Gloria and Dennis.

Florence was a hardworking and dedicated farm wife and mother who took great pride in her family and home. She was a creative person who enjoyed keeping busy with various projects and always seemed to find something to work on. Her strong work ethic, creativity, and devotion to those she loved were an important part of who she was.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Florence was a lifetime member of Horace Lutheran Church and a dedicated member of the "Lady Bugs," a group instrumental in beautifying and caring for the church grounds.

Florence was also deeply committed to her community. She was among the founding members of the Horace Senior Center and remained very active in its activities, helping with its maintenance and fundraising efforts. She gave generously of her time and energy to help make the Senior Center a welcoming place for others.

Florence and Garfield shared a love of traveling. One of the highlights of her travels was a trip to Norway, where Florence had the opportunity to learn more about her family heritage. She especially cherished visiting with her aunts, uncles, and cousins, seeing her mother's childhood home place, and visiting the church where her mother had grown up. These connections to her family's roots held a special place in her heart.

Garfield passed away on October 3, 1996. Florence continued to cherish the memories of their years together and the family they built.

Florence is survived by her son, Dennis (Cathy) Holmen of Horace, ND; four grandchildren, Jennifer Raft of Billings, MT, Jason Joop of Borup, MN, Sarah (Jesse) Ouse of Horace, ND, and Evan (Julie) Holmen of Walcott, ND; one great-grandson, Karson Ouse; one sister, Rosie Grindeland of Fargo, ND; and many dear nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Garfield; her dear daughter, Gloria; son-in-law, Don Joop; her parents, Arthur and Helga Rekken; three sisters; and four brothers.

Florence will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her strong work ethic, her creativity, her faith, and her commitment to her church and community. Her long life was filled with family, hard work, service to others, and cherished memories. Her legacy will live on through the generations who loved her and the community she helped build.