ST. ANSGAR — Linda Mae Bork, 80, of St. Ansgar, passed away Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage following complications related to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a genetic lung disease.
Linda Mae Howe was born November 6, 1945, in Osage to Harold J. and Leola M. Howe. She grew up on a farm southeast of Otranto, attended school in Otranto through eighth grade and graduated from St. Ansgar High School in 1964.
After high school, Linda worked for Bankers Life in Des Moines. She married her high school sweetheart, Gary Bork, on October 30, 1965. Early in their marriage, Linda spent time in Germany while Gary was serving there with the U.S. Army.
Linda worked at several North Iowa businesses and care facilities through the years, including Marr Knitting, Gabe’s, the Good Samaritan Center and Fox River Mills. Away from work, she enjoyed cross-stitching, flowers, canning and fishing at the family cabin on Lake Vermilion.
She also gave time to young people as a Sunday School teacher and Boy Scout leader.
Family was at the center of Linda’s life. She and Gary shared nearly 61 years of marriage, raised two children and were blessed with grandchildren and a great-grandson. Loved ones will remember her devotion to family, the joy she found in simple everyday moments, and the care she showed to those around her, including the beloved dogs who were part of her life over the years.
She is survived by her husband, Gary; her children, Brian Bork and Kim Beland, and their families; grandchildren; a great-grandson; her brother, Jim Howe; in-laws; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Arnold Matter; father-in-law, Wayne Bork; and grandparents.
In keeping with Linda’s wishes, no funeral service will be held.
A come-and-go Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the St. Ansgar American Legion, 137 W. 4th St. in St. Ansgar.
Memorials will be directed to the St. Ansgar First Responders and SaintsTV.
Hoff Celebrations – Schroeder Chapel of St. Ansgar is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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