A Century of Faith and Service: The Life of Ida Flaaten
a 102-Year-Old INSPIRATION
Ida sits at her kitchen table. Her “new bible” opened to one of her favorite verses.
Ida’s story begins on a farm south of Moorhead, where she grew up as part of a family of 17 children, including her half-siblings. The enormity of the family meant everyone had to do their part. This strong sense of responsibility, along with faith and resilience, would shape her remarkable life. She reminisces about her childhood with a blend of nostalgia and humor, painting a vivid picture of a simpler but hardworking time.
Later in life, Ida moved to Warroad with her husband, where they opened and operated a small grocery store. Together, they managed the store until 1970, a time she remembers fondly. Her life was deeply intertwined with her family and community, a theme that persists to this day. Ida and her husband raised two biological daughters and fostered three children. Although tragedy has touched her family—her foster son passing due to Agent Orange complications and the loss of a grandson at a young age—Ida’s steadfast faith has been her anchor.
When her husband retired, the couple dedicated themselves to ministry, regularly leading devotions at a local nursing home. Ida chuckles as she recounts how her husband’s modern pants were mistaken for pajamas one day, leading to a humorous exchange. Another story tells of a resident wearing her husband’s favorite cap, a simple yet heartwarming reminder of the joy they brought to others in their daily visits.
In 1995, Ida’s husband passed away, prompting her move to Moorhead to be closer to her siblings. She lived just a block from Trinity Church, where she immersed herself in volunteering. From preparing bulletins and mailings, to assisting with funerals, Ida found purpose in staying busy. She admits she did everything by hand back then, before the widespread adoption of computers.
Today, at 102, Ida continues to lead an active and independent life in her senior living community. She conducts weekly Bible studies, not afraid to dive into complexities like the book of Revelation. Ida also organized an exercise class to encourage others to stay active. “Move,” she says, “so you don’t get in a wheelchair. Your health improves completely if you move.” Her sessions, a mix of stretching and light exercises, exemplify her belief in the value of staying engaged both physically and mentally.
Cooking remains another of Ida’s passions. Her freezer is stocked with soups she prepares in advance—wild rice, chicken, and hamburger soup among her staples. It’s her way of ensuring she gets her vegetables, a task she finds easier when they’re paired with ranch dressing. She still manages her own cooking, cleaning, and finances, though her niece often steps in to help, much to Ida’s quiet amusement.
Ida, stopped by Trinity to check out the new renovations.
Ida’s “new” bible. Filled with markings and notations. Every page touched and read.
Faith has been the cornerstone of Ida’s life. Growing up, church attendance was non-negotiable in her family, and she fondly recalls her father ensuring they never missed a Sunday service. A year of Bible school before her marriage deepened her understanding, and since then, Ida has been involved in teaching and leading Bible studies. Her favorite verse, Micah 6:8, reflects her commitment to humility, justice, and mercy: “This is what is required of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Her husband’s chosen verse, Proverbs 30:8-9, is equally profound, “Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need, lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” or I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.” This verse, etched into his tombstone, capture the couple’s enduring dedication to a life guided by faith.
Despite her age, Ida exudes vitality and an unyielding spirit. She describes how the Lord has guided her through life’s challenges, from surviving car accidents to enduring personal losses. “Trust in the Lord,” she says when asked about the secret to her long life. “He has been so good to me.”
Ida’s family, remains central to her life. She cherishes her role as a great-great-grandmother, marveling at the five generations her family spans. Pictures of her loved ones adorn her space, a testament to the enduring ties that bind her to those she loves.
As she reflects on her century of life, Ida speaks of regrets and lessons learned, particularly in raising her children. She worries about those who have drifted from faith but holds fast to the belief that her wisdom, born of experience and perseverance, is a reminder of the power of faith, family, and community.
Ida’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of devotion, resilience, and love. From the farm fields of her youth to her current role as a spiritual guide and community leader, she embodies the grace and strength that come from a life well-lived. At 102, Ida continues to inspire all who know her, proving that age is no barrier to faith, purpose, and joy.