Edith Forsch

Edith Mary Ann Forsch (Raines) was born on April 25, 1927 to Homer and Margaret (Grav) Raines.

She grew up on the family farm east of Dell Rapids an only child, until her brother, Tom, was born when she was almost eleven. Despite their age difference, they remained close for life.

Edith attended country school in Logan Township to eighth grade, and high school in Dell Rapids. She maintained friendships with the class of 1945, and hosted many informal reunions, even past their 50 year reunion.

After high school, Edith completed the cadet RN program at Anchor Hospital, Saint Paul, MN. She and best friend, classmate Layne Peterson, had many adventures as young nurses, working at summer camp, blood bank, polio units, among other assignments.

On June 21, 1952, Edith married William (Bill) Forsch in Selma, AL, where Bill was stationed in the U. S. Air Force. When his tour of duty ended, they returned to Dell Rapids to raise their family.

Edith worked at home as a wife and mother, and part-time at the Dell Rapids Hospital and clinic. After providing end-of –life care for Bill, she was widowed in 1971.

Edith's nursing career took her to McKennan Hospital, and later to the Veterans Administration Hospital, both in Sioux Falls. She retired as evening house supervisor. Edith was a well-liked co-worker, a life-long learner and a quiet, capable nurse. For several years in addition to her work, she coordinated care and support for her parents allowing them to age in place as long as possible.
Edith enjoyed a happy, full retirement including involvement in library board at First United Methodist church, doll club, sewing, gardening, and playing mah jong and bridge.

She always made sure her children and grandchildren knew they were the most important and fun part of her life. She especially enjoyed granddaughter Kate's college years at Augustana, when she also became "grandma" to many of Kate's friends.

Leaving a piece of her heart in South Dakota, Edith relocated to Kansas City to live near her daughter and family.

Edith died on July 29, 2016 in Kansas City from Lymphoma. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, an infant granddaughter, several brothers and sisters in law and many close friends,. Survivors include son, Bill Forsch (Noel DeSota), Lake Forest, CA, daughter, Ann Timmons (Bob), grandchildren Laynie Timmons, Kate Meyer (Jared), Jenny Witt (Ben), Nick Timmons (Megan), great grandchildren Harper, Bobby and Erin Timmons, all of the Kansas City area. Brother Tom Raines (Lee), Sioux Falls; sister-in-law Celia (Forsch) Orth, Ontario, Canada, several cousins, nieces, nephews and many dear friends, including Verla Sturdevant.

Edith's wishes were for a family memorial service and cremation. Graveside service at the time of burial for friends and family at a later date to be announced. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family c/o Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, Olathe, KS 66102.

Memorials may be sent to the Children's Home Society or McCrossan Boys Ranch, Sioux Falls, SD, the Danish Museum of America, Elkhorn, IA or a charity of your choice.