Obert Somsen

Obert Weston Somsen, 92, Jamestown, North Dakota died Friday, August 3, 2012 at Ave Maria Village Nursing Home in Jamestown.

Obert Somsen was born September 25, 1919 in Woodworth, ND, son of David and Phebe (Warne) Somsen. His family moved to Courtenay, ND in 1932, and he attended Corrine School and Courtenay High School. He married Johanna Bata on November 10, 1952 at St. John's Catholic Chapel, Kensal, ND. Obert's dad died in 1948, Obert then took over the task of managing the farm. His farm operation mainly consisted of cattle and grains. For a short time he raised pigs and chickens. Obert and Johanna farmed north of Courtenay until 1984 when they moved to Jamestown. Although Obert's son took over the farm, for several years after moving to town, Obert continued to assist with the operation.

While living in Courtenay he served on the Courtenay Township Board, Courtenay Farmers Elevator, Courtenay Fire Department and Courtenay School Board. His life was devoted to his family and farming. Obert helped his children with their 4-H competitions, showing cattle. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren's sporting events and activities.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Johanna, Jamestown, ND; one son, Steven (Sherry) Somsen, Courtenay, ND; one daughter, Shirley (Richard) McGruder, Jamestown; one son-in-law, Jeffrey Schuchard, Jamestown, ND; four grandchildren, Jenna (David) Stoppleworth, Courtenay, ND, Sara Schuchard (fiancé Dustin McGregor), Fairdale, ND, Jenny Schuchard, Jamestown, ND and Weston McGruder, Jamestown, ND; step-grandson, Jason (Kristen) Nelson, West Fargo, ND and step-great-grandsons, Cooper and Keaton Nelson, West Fargo, ND. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Sandra Schuchard, sister Lois, and three brothers, Franklin, Warne and David.