Ingeborg Byfuglien, 95
Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Ingeborg Byfuglien, age 95, entered her eternal home on Feb. 6, 2015.
Ingeborg was born in Etnedal, Valdres, Norway, to Erland and Inga Sveen, where she grew up on her family's beautiful mountain farm. Along with her sister Magnhild and her brother Ola, they worked the farm and tended the animals that included sheep, cattle, pigs, horses, and goats. One of her chores was spinning sheep wool to knit mittens and sweaters.
Her devoted work ethic that began on the family farm was demonstrated throughout her life. She worked tirelessly, and faithfully loved and cared for her family. Her kindness welcomed all with a warm embrace and generous hospitality. She enjoyed spending time with her family, embroidering, sewing, cooking, baking, reading, and maintaining an immaculate home, beautiful yard and garden.
Ingeborg also managed several apartments (which her husband Alfred built) right up until her passing.
As a young girl, Ingeborg attended a one room school house in Valdres, Norway, and later became a governess for a family that lived next to the King's Palace in Oslo. She was only 21 and still living in Oslo when Germany invaded her homeland during WWII.
Ingeborg went on to graduate from a Norwegian culinary school where she was awarded first place for her exceptional Lefse baking skills, a traditional Scandinavian flat bread made with potatoes. Over the years, many who sat at her table enjoyed this delicious Lefse and all of the other tasty Norwegian and American cuisines that she graciously and enthusiastically prepared.
Ingeborg had a keen mind and a sense of humor that often made us laugh. Her lively conversations always showed sincere interest, empathy, and compassion. Her kindness epitomized a life of grace where she served others in whatever way she could. She was a faithful Christian who loved her Savior and Lord, and in whose promises she trusted. One of her favorite Bible passages that she held dear was John 3:16.
Ingeborg married her husband Alfred in Valdres, Norway, and they shared many wonderful years together. It was the day after they immigrated to the United States on March 14, 1952, that their firstborn daughter, Ina, was born in Coeur d'Alene. They were later blessed with a son, Ed, and a daughter, Solveig.
Ingeborg was always proud of her heritage and passed along many Norwegian traditions to her family that included language, culture, and music. It was because of her inspiration and encouragement that family members sang and recorded a CD of favorite Norwegian folk songs titled, "Reflections of Norway."
Though Ingeborg loved her family and home in Norway, she also loved her new-found family and home in America. It was a happy day when she officially became an American citizen on Dec. 12, 1967. She was blessed with many enjoyable visits back to Norway including her last trip in 2002 accompanied by her daughter Ina Bressler and family.
Ingeborg was a member of the Sons of Norway Lodge for many years, and was an active member at Trinity Lutheran Church. She participated in the Women's Bible Study circles, and gladly prepared and served baked goods including pies, cookies, and casserole dishes for retirement homes and others in need.
Ingeborg was a precious and treasured gift from the Lord whose wonderful life was a blessing to many. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Ingeborg was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred. Surviving members include her daughter Ina (Terry) Bressler, son Ed (Cindy) Byfuglien, and daughter Solveig Vishnesky; grandchildren: Solina Bressler, Jarin Bressler, Brandi (Jim) Felts, Stephanie (Ed) Bellus, Lyle Williams, and Daniel Price; great-grandchildren: Cody, Kimberly and Emily Felts, Conner, Ethan and McKenna Bellus; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service in celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, at Trinity Lutheran Church.
English Funeral Chapel of Coeur d'Alene has been entrusted to handle final arrangements. Please visit Ingeborg's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.