Leona J. Antonson

Leona Antonson, age 87 of Park River, ND passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at the Good Samaritan Society of Park River.

Leona Jane Ratliff was born on January 2, 1936 in Park River, ND to the late Leon and Ada (Gillespie) Ratliff.  Leona was raised and attended school in the Park River area.  After her education she met Ove Antonson and they were united in marriage.  Through this union Leona and Ove had five children. She was a homemaker in the early years, raising her children and caring for her family.  They made their home in Walker and Thief River Falls, MN.

Leona moved to Chicago, IL to be closer to her siblings and worked as a home health aide for 20 years.  She returned to Park River in 1995 to take care of her father.  Leona enjoyed gardening of all kinds, but loved her flowers.  She loved puzzle books, old Westerns, and spending time with her family.  Leona’s return to Park River, gave her such joy, as the community welcomed her back with open arms.  She loved spending time having coffee and catching up on the latest in the lives of her friends.

Leona is survived by her children: Tom (Sandy) Ratliff, St. Hilaire, MN, Sandy (Wayne) Shepersky, Wadena, MN, Terry Antonson, Park River, ND, and Michael Antonson, Thief River Falls, MN; six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; brother Gary (Linda) Ratliff, Chicago, IL, special neighbor and friend, Silver and several cousins, nieces, and nephews also survive.  She is preceded in death by her parents, infant daughter Karen, daughter in law Cathy Antonson, and siblings: Carol Sue, Forest (Swede), Jimmy, Delores, Gracie, and Ada Mae.

Memorial Services will be held at the Federated Church of Park River on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 1:00 p.m.  Visitation will be from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at a later date.