Myrna and Harold Monson were both born and raised near Alexander. Harold was the oldest of five born to Floyd and Agnes Monson. He started his education in a one-room schoolhouse that still stands today outside of Alexander. After 8th grade, he began high school in Alexander and graduated in 1965.
Myrna is the middle child of the family with an older and younger brother. She is the daughter of Bill and Edna Forthun. After graduating from Alexander in 1967, she attended college in Williston and later Minot. She graduated with an elementary education degree in May 1971.
They were married in Alexander on Nov. 27, 1970. Their early married life was filled with hard work and determination. After returning from Vietnam, Harold earned an ag business degree in 1972. Myrna began her teaching career at St. Joseph's Catholic School, Williston.
The Monson's lived in Charboneau and then south of Alexander, where they raised their children: Brent, Brad, Brandon, Brody, and Brice. They eventually settled on the Monson North Farm, which was Myrna's childhood home. Myrna and Harold's resilience is evident in raising five boys who have all become successful in their careers and family lives.
Harold worked at various grain elevators until retirement, though he continues to be active on the farm. Known for his love of animals, Harold was instrumental in getting his grandchildren involved in 4-H and pig farming. He also enjoys gardening, including growing pumpkins for his grandchildren each year.
Myrna is known for her homemade baked goods. She taught first and second grade in Alexander for over 18 years, retiring in 2012. She served on the Horse Creek School Board and as secretary/treasurer for the Church of the Nazarene.
Their home is known for its open-door policy, where visitors will always find a Tupperware of baked goods on the counter. Myrna warmly welcomed all her daughters-in-law into the family, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and love. The Monson family is a close-knit unit where everyone pitches in, whether it's carving the turkey, making candy at Christmas, or branding cattle.
Together, Myrna and Harold have built a life centered on love, family, and service. They have 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, who continue to be a source of pride and joy.
Brent and Schelle live in Williston along with their two married daughters, Cassie and John Lopez, with son Nolan, and Shawna and Nick Zern.
Brad and Elizabeth live in Fargo with their children, Grant (5) and Evelyn (3).
Brandon and Katie live on the North Farm with their children, Dylan (14) and Hannah (10).
Brody and Whitney live in Williston with their children, Rylee (17), Hadley (12), Landon (13), and Kasin (10).
Brice and Sheila live at the South Monson Farm with their children, Brailyn (11), Bridger (9), and Brexley (7).
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