Fern Irene Aspden, 82, passed away suddenly, July 23, 2009 at Chadron Community Hospital.

 

She was born to William and Lucille (Wood) Blundell July 26, 1926 on the Howard Barrett place west of Chadron.  Born with Cerebral Palsy, she did not walk until age 3.  At age 5 she spent time at the Orthopedic Hospital in Lincoln.  In spite of her disability, she did not let it become an excuse to keep her from doing anything she wanted to do.

 

Fern attended District 114 Rural School for her elementary education, then graduated from Chadron High School in 1944, and attended 2 years at Chadron State College.

 

Upon his return from the Philippines, Fern married Albert L. Aspden, June 23, 1946.  Two daughters Sandra and Donna were born to them. After living in the Denver area for a short time, Fern and Albert returned to Nebraska, working on two different farms in the Hay Springs area.  Fern's final move was to Chadron in 1954 and remained in her home until her death.

   

After moving to Chadron, Fern spent her days caring for young children while their parents worked or attended college.  She has always kept in touch with all of them. After Albert's retirement, they enjoyed several trips together with several of these trips being to attend district, state or national meetings for the VFW.

 

Fern was the happiest when she was spending time with her family, whether she was at home, in Florida or Montana.

 

Fern was active in VFW Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Royal Neighbors of America, Rebekahs, and Does, holding several offices, including secretary and president of VFW for twelve years.  She was holding the office of secretary of the VFW at the time of her death.

 

She was very much involved in the United Methodist Church, active in Methodist Women and Church Choir until her health limited her participation.  On Sunday mornings you would find Fern watching her service on TV and to continue her service for the church she spent the last several years calling to make sure there would be greeters on Sunday mornings.  Also, she was currently doing the calling for the RSVP Birthdays.

A loving mother, grandmother, and a dear friend to all.

Daughters- Sandra Lea Visser and husband Leonard of Camano Island, WA; Donna Jean Williams and husband Dennis of Bronson, FL.

Sisters-In-Law- Pauline Bach, Agens Mattson, Alice Bowers.

Cousins- Larry and wife Pat Wood; Liz W. and husband Mike) Krivokucha; Grace Baker, Evelyn Schaad.

Grandchildren- Bryon Visser; Brenda Pate and husband Steve, Diesha Williams.

Step-Granddaughters- 3

Great Grandchildren- 11

Numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends and her two loving care givers; Maxine Cavaness and Jan Adams.