Ida Amanda Brekke, 100, of Wittenberg, passed away peacefully Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at Milestone Senior Living in Woodruff.
Ida was born Aug. 9, 1925, in Elderon, the daughter of the late Emma and Ole R. Dobbe, of Rosholt. She was the granddaughter of Berthine Isakson Olson and Jorgen (George) Olson from Elderon, who immigrated from Norway.
Ida graduated from Rosholt High School in 1943. After high school, she began her career at Rosholt State Bank. She later managed the dry goods department at the Red Owl store, traveling by train to Chicago markets to select merchandise, a responsibility she carried out thoughtfully and with care.
Ida married Dr. Alfred Brekke, a veterinarian in Wittenberg, and worked alongside him until his death in 1988. Long before “veterinary technician” was a recognized role, she assisted with procedures and cared for animals with skill and knowledge.
Ida’s interests included playing bridge with the Wittenberg ladies, enjoying the piano, making lefse and preparing memorable holiday meals – always beginning with the traditional Norwegian prayer, I Jesu Navn.
Preceding Ida in death was her loving husband, Alfred Brekke; grandchildren, Marne Oestreich and Madeline Brekke; and two brothers and four sisters.
Ida is survived by children, Linda (Gene) Oestreich, Jane (Phil) Paige, Jim (Judy) Brekke, Rick (Carolina) Brekke; grandchildren, Jon (Beth) Oestreich, Thomas Oestreich, Connor (Jenny) Paige, Hailey (Jonathan Price) Paige, Victoria Paige, Eleanor (Blake) Gottschalk, Henry (Hadar) Brekke-Peer, Sara (Tucker) Maris and Benjamin Brekke; great-grandchildren, Anja Oestreich, Elsa Oestreich, Alice Gottschalk and Daphne Gottschalk; sister, Darlene (Rusty) Knitter; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Ida’s life on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg. A burial will follow at Forest Home Cemetery, Wittenberg. Visitation will be on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
