Ardell L. Sonstelie

Ardell Sonstelie (age 98) passed away November 11, 2011 in Spokane, WA. She is survived by her daughter, Tanis Gribbin and husband Gene of Bigfork, MT; son, Jon Sonstelie and wife Ann of Santa Barbara, CA; grandson, Erik Gribbin of Austin, TX; brother, Harry Solheim and wife Joyce of Moose Lake, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James C. Sonstelie (1985), and two brothers, William and Robert Solheim.

Mrs. Sonstelie was born August 2, 1913 in Hibbing, MN to Hans and Hannah (Kvalvaag) Solheim. Her parents were 1st generation Norwegian immigrants. She was a graduate of St. Olaf College, and spent many years working in education. She taught Home Economics, and retired from the Mead School District where she primarily worked as a librarian. Mrs. Sonstelie was a longtime active member of St. David’s Episcopal Church. She was also a talented seamstress and avid bridge player.

Visitation will be on Friday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N. Monroe St. private interment will be at Spokane Memorial Gardens. Please join the family for a memorial service to celebrate her life at 11:30 am on Saturday, November 19, 2011 at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 7315 N. Wall St. in Spokane. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund at St. David’s Church.