Nelda Anne Langton

Nelda A. Langton, passed away on Friday, August 22, 2025 surrounded by loving family at the Lakota Good Samaritan Care Center at the age of 92.

Visitation will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Friday, August 29, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service and Time of Remembrance at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service for Nelda will be on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Devils Lake with Reverend JoHanna Buchholz officiating. Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery, followed by a time of fellowship at the church.

Nelda Anne Severtson was born on July 25, 1933, on her grandparents’ Sundeen farm to Edward and Dagny Severtson. She was baptized at Hoff Lutheran Church and confirmed at United Church in Brocket. Throughout her life, her faith was a steady guiding presence, and she remained an active participant in her church communities. After moving to Devils Lake in 1997, Nelda was pleased to join the congregation at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.

Nelda grew up attending schools in the Southam and Brocket areas. As the eldest daughter and one of the oldest cousins in a large extended family, Nelda was always surrounded by children and loved ones. She was a connector and a conduit for her extended family, often staying in touch and helping foster close relationships among cousins and relatives, ensuring they remained a strong, supportive network throughout the years.

In 1951, Nelda married Leo L. Langton. The couple moved to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where Leo was stationed with the U.S. Marine Corps. After two years, they returned to North Dakota, and in the fall of 1954, purchased a farm east of Southam, where they raised their family.

Family was at the heart of Nelda’s life, but she also treasured her friendships. She spent many years bowling in Ladies' and Coffee Leagues, and she and Leo enjoyed traveling, making memories with friends in Las Vegas and on family fishing trips. Nelda had a love for music, especially country, and cherished her visits to the Grand Ole Opry, attending concerts in Nashville, and regularly enjoying performances at the casino.

One of Nelda’s greatest joys was hosting gatherings, especially Christmas Eve, which became a beloved tradition. The food, music, and gift-giving made the evening a lively celebration, and it was often a surprise to younger family members when they learned that not every family danced and sang around the Christmas tree. Nelda carried on the legacy of her mother and grandmother by encouraging the younger generation to sing around the Christmas tree and share their church programs or Bible verses. Her thoughtfulness was reflected in the gifts she chose for each family member.

Nelda had an unwavering love and support for her children. She was always the comforter, providing a safe space where her children knew they were unconditionally loved and cared for, no matter the circumstances. Her steady, nurturing presence was a source of constant strength and encouragement.

Though Nelda faced much loss in her life, she remained positive and resilient. She met each challenge with quiet strength and continued to offer love and support to those around her.

Nelda is survived by her children: Steve (Sally) Langton, Merle Langton, Stacy (Tom) Saurey, and son-in-law Jay Cummings. Her grandchildren: Cami (Matt) Hodgins, Kyle Langton, Jenni Rheault, Neil Langton, Mandy (Nick) Bertrand, Bethany (Daryl) Dittus, Calsey Langton, Dana (Alex) Cummings, Betsy Cummings, Jackson (Brenna) Cummings, Megan Saurey, Erica (Elliot) Nash, and Walter Saurey; and 13 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings: Sheldon Severtson, Lynn (Barb) Severtson, Edelle Bond, Sonja Meissner, Dorine (Richard Bjorlie) Severtson, and her brother-in-law Jerry Russell.

Nelda was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, Leo; her children: Trent, Lanelle, Brian, and Scott, his wife Dessarae, and his daughter-in-law Brianne; an infant child; and her brother Elvin Severtson.

The family would like to thank the Lakota Good Samaritan Center for the loving care they provided to Nelda during her final years. A special thank you goes to cousin Kristy Tronson for her thoughtful visits, cards, and treats while Nelda was in the nursing home.

Gatherings were always incredibly special to Nelda, and the last one - Christmas in July - held just a few weeks ago, was the first she was unable to attend. Many visited her at the nursing home, where she remained alert and enjoyed the visits. Her ability to connect and share those moments with others was a gift to everyone who came to see her.

She will be missed and forever cherished.