Anna Severson

Our angel on earth went home to our Lord Tuesday, October 2, 2007, in a car accident at age 79. Sebastiana Bantasan was born February 15, 1928, to Modesto and Cirilia (Rom) Bantasan in Albuera, Leyte, Philippines. She left Leyte at age 16 and worked her way to Manila, where her older sister, Jovita, lived. Sebastiana worked as a nanny and then a waitress. There she met the love of her life, Raymond H. Severson, who was stationed there in the Navy. They married at Grace Lutheran Church in Pasay City, July 28, 1954. Son, William, was born in Cavite City, Philippines. When Ray’s visa expired, he had to return home alone. Red tape didn’t allow him to bring his wife and son with him. When Sebastiana and Bill were able to come to America, the family made their home in West Fargo, ND, and then moved to Moorhead, MN. Daughter, Linda, was born there. Sebastiana became a United States Citizen and changed her name to Anna. Because of the Japanese invasion, Anna was only able to go to school through 6th grade. She had a strong desire to continue her education and was allowed to enter Lincoln Elementary School in Moorhead, starting in the 4th grade at age 34. She continued through 9th grade at Moorhead Jr. High. At 4’9” she fit right in. Ray and Anna moved their family to Fargo, ND, in 1969, where she lived until her death. Anna began work in housekeeping at St. John’s/Dakota Hospital in 1970, and worked there until she reluctantly retired. In 2001, she was recognized for 30 years of service. Anna loved planting flowers, gardening, knitting, bowling, fishing and cooking. Her fried rice was a special request for family gatherings. Anna was able to visit her family in the Philippines one last time in 1999. She was a bubbly, loving, generous and gentle soul. We cherish the gift of her in our lives. She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and two sisters. Anna is survived by her husband of 53 years, Raymond H. Severson; a son, William (Mary) Severson, Millard, NE; daughter, Linda (Timothy) Carico, Fargo, ND; grandchildren, Jennifer (Patrick) Lindner, Omaha, NE; Jason (Amber) Severson, North Richland Hills, TX; Adam Carico and Christopher Carico, Fargo, ND; great grandchildren, Ryley Chase Severson and Jayden William Lindner; her brother, David Bantasan; sister, Merin Rosal; and special cousin, Maria Evearts and their families in Leyte, Philippines. Memorial Service: Saturday, October 6, 2007, at 9:00 AM, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND.