Alice Cora Skarsten

1937 - 2024

Alice C. Skarsten, age 86, of Benson, Minnesota, passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Centra Care – Benson Hospital in Benson, Minnesota. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Benson, with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 am. Interment is in Benson City Cemetery. Zniewski Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alice Cora Skarsten was born on December 1, 1937, in Swenoda Township, Swift County, the youngest daughter of Ole and Edna (Dale) Larson. She was baptized at Trinity of Swenoda Lutheran Church by Rev. M.O. Andrews. In 1952, she was confirmed at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church by Rev. Harold Nasheim.

She attended country school in district #49 near her home and began attending Benson High School in eighth grade, graduating in 1955. After graduation, Alice went to work at the First State Bank in Benson as a secretary/receptionist. For 17 years she enjoyed her numerous responsibilities there as well as the variety of interactions with people. On June 24, 1972, Alice was united in marriage to Christ Skarsten at Our Redeemer’s by Rev. Victor Quello. She then began her second career as a farm wife/homemaker/mother. She prepared many delicious meals and lunches for several hired men, especially in the fall harvest season.

Music was always a big part of Alice’s life. As a girl, she took piano lessons with Carl Goulson, and later played the clarinet in the high school concert and marching band under Albert Lokken. She was the pianist for church services at Trinity of Swenoda Church starting at age 13, and continued until the church closed in 1961. She also played piano for Luther League programs and Sunday School. After joining Our Redeemer’s, she began accompanying children’s and youth choirs as well as many other groups and events. In the early 1970s, she was the accompanist for the community vocal group known as the Choraliers. She passed her love for music on to her children, whom she taught to play the piano.

Alice had a gift for teaching, leadership, and service. She was a Sunday School teacher for about 25 years and also taught Vacation Bible School and was a women’s circle Bible study leader. She was active in the Our Redeemer’s Women’s group and served as president. She also served on the church council and on church anniversary committees. Alice was also an adult leader for the Lake Hazel Eager Beavers 4-H Club.

Alice enjoyed baking and growing vegetables and flowers. For several years she entered exhibits in the local flower shows and the Swift County Fair. Among other prizes, she had grand champion lefse, doughnuts, and a yellow rose. Her doughnuts were always highly anticipated items at church bake sales.

She was called from this life on August 13, 2024, at the Benson hospital. She attained the age of 86 years, 8 months, and 12 days.

She is survived by son Roger Skarsten of Hildesheim, Germany and daughter Sarah Skarsten of Benson. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Evelyn (in infancy) and Louise Larson, and her husband Christ. Blessed be her memory.