Longtime Badger resident Verna Kay Monsrud dies at 87

Verna Monsrud grew up in Gatzke, Minnesota and spent decades farming with her husband Willard in Badger.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Verna Kay Monsrud (Gramstad), a lifelong resident of Badger, Minnesota, passed away on February 12, 2026 at the age of 87. Verna was born in 1938 in Gatzke, Minnesota to Rueben and Ellen Gramstad, and later moved to Badger as a teenager. In 1955, she married Willard Monsrud, and the couple spent decades farming and working the land together in Badger.

Why it matters

Verna's story reflects the history of small-town Minnesota farming communities, where families have worked the land for generations. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Badger area, as residents mourn the loss of a longtime community member and dedicated farmer.

The details

Verna worked tirelessly alongside her husband Willard on their Badger farm, helping with all aspects of farm life including working the fields, milking cows, and planting crops. The couple moved onto the homestead after their marriage in 1955 and raised their family there.

  • Verna Monsrud was born on October 25, 1938 in Gatzke, Minnesota.
  • Verna married Willard Monsrud on February 24, 1955 in Steinbach, Manitoba.
  • Verna passed away on February 12, 2026 at the age of 87.

The players

Verna Kay Monsrud (Gramstad)

A lifelong resident of Badger, Minnesota who spent decades farming with her husband Willard.

Willard Monsrud

Verna's husband, with whom she farmed and worked the land in Badger, Minnesota for many years.

Rueben Gramstad

Verna's father, with whom she grew up in Gatzke, Minnesota.

Ellen (Larson) Gramstad

Verna's mother, with whom she grew up in Gatzke, Minnesota.

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The takeaway

Verna Monsrud's life and legacy reflect the enduring values of small-town Minnesota farming communities, where families have worked the land for generations. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Badger area, as residents remember a longtime community member and dedicated farmer.