Lona Rix

Lona Rix, Hawley, MN, died Friday, October 6, 2023 in Viking Manor, Ulen, MN. Lona Lenore Bryngelson was born in White Earth, MN to Lyle and Lenore (Spry) Bryngelson.

Her education began in Finley, ND where she started high school and later graduated from Roosevelt High School in Fargo. She worked at Dakota Clinic and Villa Maria in Fargo. She enjoyed caring for people and her work supporting others was very fulfilling to her.

She married her first husband, Dale Boelz, in 1952 and they had four children. Lona was then married to Richard Rix on July 7, 1978 in Fargo, ND, and welcomed two step-children into her life.

Lona was known for her warm personality and welcoming smile. Her genuine kindness and friendly nature were felt by everyone who met her. She had a way of making people feel at ease. She had a sense of compassion, a generous spirit, and quietly helped many she thought could use a lift in life.

Lona excelled at a multitude of hobbies and interests. From sewing and knitting to Swedish weave and cake decorating. She loved the holidays and the house was filled with cookies, rosettes, divinity, and her mother’s homemade fudge recipe, among other holiday treats. And the more decorations the merrier! 

She loved dancing with Richard, golfing, fishing, and bowling. She was also particularly lucky at Bingo. She was a world traveler visiting Europe, China, Africa, Australia and New Zealand. But her favorite hobby was probably “chocolate.” Lona enjoyed spending winters in Mesa, AZ.

Lona was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was happiest when surrounded by her children and extended family. Everyone together enjoying each other’s company warmed her heart.

Lona will be remembered and missed by her husband, Richard Rix; sons, Clay (Edie) Boelz and Dana (Lin) Boelz; daughter, Laurie Elliott; step-son, Richard (Heather) Rix; brother, Arlem Bryngelson; five step-grandchildren, Blake Olson, Paige (Tanner) Hennen, Claire Rix, Courtney Rix and Candace Rix; sisters-in-law, Kay Bryngelson, Joan Ostrom, and Beverly Richards; brothers-in-law, James Rix and George Fick; and son-in-law, John Olson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Audie Boelz; brother, James Bryngelson; step-daughter, Rebecca "Carrie" Olson; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Rix, Karen Bryngelson, Wylene Melkert, and Joan Fick; and brothers-in-law, Howard Ostrom, Albert Melkert and Bob Richards.

A Celebration of Lona's life will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 11:00 am at Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service.