Obituary: DeVon Allmaras

DeVon Marie Allmaras, 72, New Rockford, N.D., died on Tuesday, June 5, 2018. Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, June 9, at St. John's Catholic Church in New Rockford. Father Reese Weber officiated, and special music was provided by Annette Hovey and Kerstin Allmaras. Casket bearers were Susan Allmaras, Angela Cofell, Melissa Ham, Jessica LaCanne, Kimberly Lorensetti and Rochelle Thompson.

Allmaras was born on October 13, 1945, in New Rockford as the oldest daughter of Edward and Marilyn Allmaras. She lived a rewarding life defined by family, faith, community and education. Before passing, she wrote the following to be included in her obituary.

"Throughout my life, my family has always been important. The relationship with my sister Margo and brothers Mark and Gregory has sustained me throughout life's disappointments and enjoyments. My parents Edward and Marilyn were there for ongoing support which strengthen my family bond.

"My Catholic faith has been a steadfast gift from the Lord. Sometimes, this faith has been stronger than other times, but the Lord has constantly lead me back to Him. I have used playing the organ, participating as a reader, and helping through Caring Hearts as a way to use the talents I have been given.

"My sons Jed and Tai-Shan have been a main focus for much of my life. My life has been richly blessed because of our interactions. As a parent, participating in my sons' lives has been a challenging and a rewarding experience. One that left me in awe of their exceptional talents and abilities.

"Education has always been important to me. I have strived to improve my opportunities with education: Bachelor of Science in Business Education and Music Education from Minot State University, Minot, N.D.; Master of Education from Colorado State University; and in 1991, I reached my goal of obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy Degree from Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colo. A favorite quote of mine is 'Learning Has No End.'

"To me, enjoying your community means contributing your time to be part of that community's network. I have enjoyed being part of the Eddy-New Rockford Library Board, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Eagles Auxiliary, the Women's Auxiliary Cemetery Association, the Eddy County Museum & Historical Society, the Eddy County Housing Board and serving on the New Rockford City Commission."

Allmaras is survived by two sons, Jed (Melissa Hamm) Iverson and Tai-Shan (Jessica LaCanne) Allmaras-Zen; mother Marilyn Allmaras; one sister Margo R. Allmaras of Fargo, N.D.; two brothers, Dr. Mark (Kimberly Lorenzetti) Allmaras of Valparaiso, Ind., and Gregory (Susan) Allmaras of Phoenix, Ariz.; and several nephews and nieces.

Allmaras was preceded in death by her father Edward J. Allmaras.

The family requests that memorials in her honor be directed to The Women's Auxiliary Cemetery Association of New Rockford or the Eddy New Rockford Public Library.