Estella M. Kamphaugh

Estella Kamphaugh,102, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, at SMP Health - St. Catherine's South in Fargo, ND.

Born on May 13, 1923, in Reynolds County, MO, Estella Sanders was the daughter of Peter and Clara (Kohn) Sanders. Throughout her youth, she was educated at Victory and Fairview schools before furthering her training at NYAA technical school in Poplar Bluff. Her career began in Los Angeles, CA, where she contributed to the war effort at Lockheed Aircraft, working on the manufacturing of P38 fighters and B17 bombers. In 1943, she moved to Evansville, IN, where she took on the role of Time Keeper for Chrysler Corporation, assisting in the production of ammunition.

On April 8, 1945, Estella married Rufus Kamphaugh in Northwood, ND. Together, they resided in Springfield, MO, while Rufus served at O'Reilly General Hospital after sustaining injuries in France. Following his discharge from the Army, they transitioned to farming in Hatton, ND. In 1977, Estella moved to Osage Beach, MO, where she worked at Marriott’s Tan-Tar-A Resort for 11 years. Her journey continued in 1989 when she settled in Fargo, ND, serving as a Hostess Cashier at Perkins Family Restaurant and volunteering at the Hospitality Desk at Innovis Health.

Estella's devotion to her community and faith was evident as she served as Sunday School Superintendent for 21 years at Zoar Free Lutheran Church in Hatton, as well as treasurer for the Women’s Missionary Federation. She actively participated in numerous church and civic organizations, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.

Outside of her dedicated work and service, Estella cherished moments spent fishing, bowling, and enjoying meals with family and friends. A highlight of her life was the fulfillment of a lifelong travel dream, as she was honored to embark on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with her cherished Bethel EFC family.

Estella is survived by her three grandsons, Joshua (Kristi) Kamphaugh, Jason (Tracy) Kamphaugh, and Peter Kamphaugh; one great granddaughter, Hannah; four great grandsons, Isaac, Ethan, Caleb, and Micah; daughter-in-law, Wanita (Ken) Sletten; and many relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Rufus; daughter, Beverly; son, Jeffrey; three sisters, and six brothers.

Funeral service for Estella will be held Saturday, January 10, 2025, at 2pm in Bethel Church, Fargo.  Visitation will be one hour prior.  Interment will be in the Spring at St. John's Cemetery in Hatton, ND.