Mavis Eleanor Lage

Mavis E. Lage, age 98, of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, passed peacefully on February 11, 2026, under the brief care of Hospice at Oak Crossing in Detroit Lakes with family by her side.

Mavis Eleanor Kerling was born on August 4, 1927, in Cayuga, North Dakota, to Leonard and Edla Kerling. She was one of eleven children in a lively and loving family. After graduating from high school in Forman, ND, Mavis and her sisters moved to Fargo, North Dakota, where she furthered her education at Interstate Business College, earning a degree in clerical studies and bookkeeping.

She began working at Socony-Vacuum (Mobil Oil), where she met her future husband, Albert Lage. Mavis and Albert were united in marriage on November 18, 1951 . They made their home in Valley City, North Dakota and later moved to Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, where they farmed and raised their four children; Duane (Joan) Lage of West Fargo; Kathy (Mark) Hamre of Hawley, Minnesota; LuAnn Gedde, Pillager, Minnesota; and Bev (Mark) Buschette of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.

In 1981, Mavis lost her beloved Albert to cancer. With strength and grace, she continued forward, dedicating much of her life to volunteering and serving her community. She was a proud member of the Homemakers Club and could often be found selling daffodils for the American Cancer Society. A devout member of the United Methodist Church in Detroit Lakes, she was deeply involved in church life and activities. She was also very active in the Becker County Fair, where she registered open class flowers for many years.

Mavis adored her grandchildren and greats and treasured the time spent with them, often making crafts during their visits. She was known for her constant smile, her warm hugs, and her fierce love for her family. Her kitchen was always filled with sweets, fresh coffee, and open conversation for anyone who stopped by. She had a gift for making others feel welcome and cherished.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Lage; her parents, Leonard and Edla Kerling; and her 10 brothers and sisters and a granddaughter.

Mavis is survived by her four children and their spouses, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

An interment will be held at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she will be reunited with her husband, Albert.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Lake Park American Legion in Lake Park, Minnesota on Wednesday, February 18 from 2-4 pm.