Erna Ekeland passed away on February 3, 2007. She was 81. Erna was born in Kristiansand, Norway in 1925.

During WWII in Norway she met the love of her life, Karl. They were wed at Oddernes Church in Kristiansand by Prost T.B. Ekeland, Karl's father. She attended business school in Norway and worked as a secretary for the Chief of Police while her husband obtained his electrical engineering degree. In 1954 she immigrated to the United States with her husband and two eldest children, Ellinor and Ingerid. She lived for a short time in Iran and Norway during her husband's work travels. Her keen sense of the real estate market contributed to the family's success. Her painting and piano playing gave her children an appreciation for art and music. A love for Norway and its culture was kept alive in her children by frequent travel to visit family and friends and through the teaching of the Norwegian language and culture at home. Erna was a kind, loving and dedicated mother and homemaker who was always there for her family. Her family and friends miss her dearly.

Erna's husband and love of 58 years, Karl, predeceased her on January 14, 2007. She is survived by her children, Ellinor, Ingerid (David), Karen, Elisabeth (Steven), Kristin (Michael), and Tor (Stephanie). Her eldest daughter, Inger Elisabeth, predeceased her. One brother and one sister in Norway and 9 grandchildren also survive her.

The memorial service will be held at noon Saturday, February 17, at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang, followed by a celebration of her life at the family home in Lompoc.
Erna's final resting place will be next to her husband in Kristiansand, Norway at Oddernes church where they began their life together.

Arrangements are under the direction of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary in Lompoc.