Alda Givens, age, 87, of O'Neill, passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2005, at Avera St. Anthony's Hospital in O'Neill.

Visitation was held from 3-9 p.m. on Friday, March 4, 2005, at Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 5, 2005, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in O'Neill. Rev. Eric Olsen officiated the service. Music was provided by pianist, Susie Kramer, and soloists Zach Kloppenberg and granddaughter Jenn Richards: Grandchildren, Jed Givens and Jami Givens read the scripture readings and son-in-law, Paul Kamphaus read the prayers. Gift bearers were granddaughters, Staci Givens and Josie Benoit.

Pallbearers were grandchildren, Amy Masek, Cindy Paulsen, Robin Leeling. Sara Thomas, Megan Givens, Makala Maple, Kelli Tomjack, Joshua Givens and Jessica Hernandez.

Interment was in the O'Neill Cemetery.

Biglin's Mortuary, Inc. of O'Neill was in charge of arrangements.

Alda was born Jan. 14, 1918, at Stuart, to George and Mary (Babl) Pongratz. She graduated from St: Mary's Academy in O'Neill in 1936. After graduation she worked for Conard's Grocery store in Emmet. On April 3, 1940, she married Art Givens in Emmet. They farmed near Stuart and Emmet for many years. She was involved in the Catholic Daughters of America, Altar Society, St. Patrick's Church and Haydettes Extension Club. While raising her family and cooking for hired men she enjoyed sewing, refinishing furniture and gardening.

Alda is survived by her husband, Art of O'Neill; daughters, Lois Givens of Omaha, and Carolyn Kamphaus and husband Paul of, Norfolk; sons, Gordon Givens and wife Cathy of O'Neill; and Mike Givens and wife Liz of O'Neill; 14 grandchildren; 15 greatgrandchildren; sisters; Margaret, Troshynski of O'Neill, Theresa Givens of Stuart, and Armella Kramer of Stuart; and brother, Bernard Pongratz of O'Neill.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons and one brother.