Trula Kersten of Annandale and formerly of South Haven died Saturday, Jan. 13, 2007. She was 92. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at Zion United Methodist Church in South Haven with the Rev. Heather E. Klason officiating. Private burial was in Zion Cemetery, South Haven. Friends called from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Annandale and one hour prior to services Wednesday at the church. There was a prayer service at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Trula L. Kersten was born Aug. 4, 1914, in South Haven to John and Alma (Smith) Ballard. She married William H. Kersten May 4, 1935, in St. Paul, and he preceded her in death Jan. 2, 2005. Trula was a dedicated wife and enjoyed her life on the farm. Trula worked as a country school teacher, served as secretary of the South Haven School Board and was a member and leader of 4-H. She was a woman of strong faith, a member of Zion United Methodist Church, involved in Sunday School, Youth Leadership, Bible School and church library. She loved her family and friends and was an encouragement to everyone around her. Trula was preceded in death by her parents and brother Gilbert “Gib” Ballard. Trula is survived by son Roland (and Joan) of Grand Forks, N.D.; granddaughters Sheryl (and Delver) Aleckson, Deborah (and Eric) Douma and Julie (and Randy) Crist; many great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; very special cousins; and loved ones. Pallbearers were Delver Aleckson, Eric Douma, Eric Craton, David Craton, Reid Aleckson, Luke Aleckson and Joel Craton. U.S. Sailor Brett Aleckson was honorary pallbearer. Jamie Miller was organist and Michele Craton vocalist.
