Alma Crockett

   Alma Marie Crockett, 99, of Langdon, ND, was called to God’s Heavenly Kingdom on Monday, February 19^th, 2024, while being treated at Langdon Prairie Health.  She demonstrated to her family and those who knew her how to live a gracious and happy life.  Although she may have slowed down these past few years, she never lost her sense of humor and her sense of caring for others.  Alma always loved to travel and especially looked forward to her “days out” riding around town with her kids.

   Alma was the first of five children born to Leo and Amanda Kruger of Dresden, ND. Alma was brought into this world, April 7, 1925. Early farm life made her aware of the beauty of nature, and she always kept a beautiful garden.  In her home in Langdon, Alma was in her element as she entertained effortlessly, and home cooking never tasted so good.  There was always plenty to eat at the holidays around Alma’s domain, along with good conversation. 

   Alma attended Dresden School and later graduated from Langdon High School.  She always has treasured the people she worked with at her first real job (off the farm) at Otter Tail Power.  Alma always had great organizational skills, and these, no doubt, did not go unnoticed in the office.

   On July 21st of 1949, Alma married the love of her life, Orrin Crockett, who farmed a few miles down the road from the Dresden farm.  After a short time of apartment life (one of Alma’s only complaints), they built a home on 12^th Avenue in Langdon, where they enjoyed life together and raised their family.  They were blessed with two children, Diane and Terry.  (Alma had to ride snowcat to the hospital when they welcomed Terry.)  She was always known for her resilient attitude, and Alma would always step in and do what needed to be done, even when things might not go the way they were expected.  Alma was always busy; she enjoyed bowling, swimming, golfing and socializing at any event. Orrin and Alma enjoyed steak nights at the Langdon Country Club where they met many of their friends over the years. It was there, in 1999, that they celebrated 50 years together with a multitude of friends and family. For many years, Alma hosted Bridge Club in her home and would always come up with a special dessert for everyone.  The two travelled together frequently over the years, and Alma especially liked to go on cruises.  To celebrate 40 years together, they took their children and spouses to Hawaii. Sitting on the beach and soaking up the sun was one of Alma’s favorite things to do; and where else but Hawaii?  She was equally at home with kings and paupers in any social setting and sometimes recalled their trip to Vegas where they saw Elvis in concert.

   Her kindness and compassion for others was evident in how she lived her life, and if there were ever any complaints registered, it was “that darn wind” and “getting old is for the birds”. Long before Orrin went into a memory care unit, Alma would fool him into eating (in many forms) his most detested food: cheese. Cream cheese filling (and who doesn’t like that) became whipped cream, and boy, did it taste good then!  At 4:00 a.m. Alma was up basting the turkey, despite the rollers in her hair, and by 8:00, the kitchen was whirling.  The meals she brought to the field were more like four courses and served piping hot, especially the corn on the cob. She never boasted about her recipes, but her children and grandchildren are always keen for Grandma’s cooking. Boxes of recipes are now in the Kruger/ Crockett archives, but the one you’ll want is no longer easily accessible. 

   Alma was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, and while living at home, Alma rarely missed a Sunday at church, another place where she could connect with others and serve the Lord. Uncle John’s prayer before family feasts was always enjoyed by everyone at the table along with his family stories and poetry. Lots of laughter, good-natured ribbing, and memory-making meals were always part of holiday celebrations at the Crockett household.  

    Alma is survived by her daughter, Diane (Jim) Petersburg of Kennedy, MN, and her son, Terry (Susan) Crockett of Langdon; sister Shirley (Reuben) Krein of Las Vegas, NV; four grandchildren: RaeEllen Crockett, Brady Crockett, Kyle (Kerri Hamp) Petersburg, and Kayla (Nick) Bender; great-grandkids: Harper, Jack, Westin, along with Bryson, many caring nephews, nieces, and her sister-in-law, Della Crockett.  She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Orrin Crockett, brothers Lawrence and Frank, sister Ruth and one great-grandson, Asher. Alma will truly be missed by all; may she rest in the peace of the Lord.

   A funeral service for Alma will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Langdon, ND, with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be in the spring at Lebanon Cemetery in Langdon.

   Memorials may be sent to Redeemer Lutheran Church in loving memory of our beloved Alma Crockett.