Avis Kathleen Monson was born at home in Wheelock, ND in 1930 to Helma Jarland Septon and Einar Septon. They moved to Stanley, ND where Avis grew up. In high school Avis was involved in music and theater and excelled in academics, graduating as class valedictorian. At the age of sixteen, Avis entered Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, on scholarship. She earned degrees in Home Economics and English. In 1954, Avis married Leroy Monson. Five children were born to them: Robert, Kathleen (d. August, 2023), Mary, Sharon, and Patricia. Avis started her high school teaching career in 1951, in Bainville, Montana and later taught in Stanley, ND. In 1968, Avis was recruited to teach English at Atwater High School, in Atwater, CA. She taught in Atwater for 25 years, retiring in 1993. After retiring, Avis and Leroy traveled to Scandinavia and trailered throughout the United States and Canada. In their travels, they came upon beautiful Bonners Ferry in northern Idaho. Avis and Leroy moved there in 2004 and enjoyed gardening, exploring the area and hosting many family gatherings. They remained there until 2019 when Leroy passed away. Avis then returned to Merced, where she happily lived only four doors down from Kathleen. Avis played her piano every day, was an avid reader, prolific letter writer, excellent cook and baker, and enjoyed painting in the Norwegian Rosamaling style. She was proud of her Norwegian heritage and was a member of the Sons of Norway for over 40 years. Avis also loved RVing and was a huge Gonzaga basketball fan. Most of all, Avis enjoyed being with her family, and really delighted in spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Avis is remembered by family and friends as being kind, generous, funny and intelligent. She had a curious nature and took pleasure in learning new things and having new experiences. Avis was an inspiration to all who knew her. Avis is survived by her brother Richard Septon and wife Jennifer, four of her remaining children, the spouses (including daughter Kathleen’s husband), seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Any donations can be made to:
-Cancer Center at Dignity Health-Mercy Medical Center
-Shepard of the Valley Lutheran Church, Merced, CA
-Salvation Army
-St. Joseph’s Indian School
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