Erna Schwind

Erna Reich Schwind, 95, of Jamestown, went to be with her Lord and Savior on June 7, 2023, at Eventide, Jamestown, under the care of JRMC Hospice.

Erna was born December 18, 1927, to Jacob and Katherina (Weber) Reich on the family farm near Lehr, ND. Erna attended a county school in Emmons County through 8^th grade. She loved school and was recommended to continue her education. However, she was unable to continue as she was needed to work on the family farm.

Erna married the love of her life, Melvin Schwind, on January 19, 1947, at the New Castle Lutheran Church and made their home in Zeeland until 1948 when they moved to a farm west of Wishek. In 1959 they moved to a farm near Lehr. In the fall of 1964, they moved to Jamestown.

Erna raised 8 children, and after moving to Jamestown, she worked at the Dinner Bell Cafe, Dakota Bake and Serve, and was the cook at the Jamestown High School. She later earned her GED and worked at the North Dakota State Hospital as a cook and housekeeper.

Erna enjoyed family gatherings, playing cards, embroidery, camping with the Roaming Buffalo’s, square dancing, ceramics, cooking and baking, making German food, gardening, and canning. Holidays were important to her and knew how to put on a great meal. She also belonged to the Germans from Russia organization and loved singing church hymns.

Erna was a member and former Deacon of the First United Presbyterian Church, Jamestown.

She is survived by 4 children, Karon (Tom) Steckler, Sylvia (Don) Williams, Jeff (Michelle) Schwind, all of Jamestown, ND and Renee (Jamie) Edwards, Adrian, ND, Cheryl Wieglenda (Ron’s fiancé), Jamestown, ND,  18 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 19 great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin, 3 sons Ronald, Donald, and infant son Todd, infant daughter Karol, grandson Donald. Jr, her parents, 5 sisters and 3 brothers.

The family would like to thank the staff at Edgewood and Eventide.

“Of all the gifts life has to offer, a mother is the greatest gift of all.” Heaven gained a wonderful lady, and we will all be at a loss until we meet again.