Ethel K. Clausen, age 97, died Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at Riverview Health Services, Flandreau. Ethel was born on December 14, 1914 in Richland Township, Brookings County, SD to Emil and Julia (Ecker) Laabs. She attended Richland Country School #48. On September 30, 1935 she married Bennie Clausen at Aurora, SD. They farmed until 1971 when they moved into Elkton. Ethel worked as a housekeeper at the Brookings Hospital for 10 years. Bennie preceded her in death on May 8, 1981. Ethel continued to make her home in Elkton until going to Riverview Health Services in 2011. Ethel was a member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, St. Mary's Guild and American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing cards, bingo, the Old Time Fiddlers, growing flowers, cooking, and driving around with her friend, Mary. Ethel was known for her history of Elkton.

Ethel is survived by her 2 sons, Curtis (Betty) Clausen, Marshall, MN, Ronald (Marlys) Clausen, Elkton; 3 grandchildren, Denise (John) Petersen, Owatonna, MN, Tim Clausen, Bowling Green, KY, Julie (Nick) LeFebvre, Brookings; 6 great-grandchildren, Brock, Megan, Desirez and Dillion Clausen, Alonna and Treyton LeFebvre and one great-great-granddaughter, Kinze Clausen. She is preceded in death by her husband; 1 grandson, Doug and her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, September 15, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, Elkton with burial at St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the church with a rosary and prayer service at 7:00 PM.