Remembering Clara Laughlin

Clara B. Laughlin, retired administrative assistant at the UND Geological Survey, Grand Forks, passed away Saturday, April 16, 2022 in Valley Senior Living on Columbia, Grand Forks. She was 92.

Clara Bergliot Knutson was born June 12, 1929 in Grand Forks to Gunder and Gunhild Knutson (Haugen). She was raised and educated in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota.

Clara married Joseph Laughlin on Feb. 20, 1952, in Grand Forks. Upon completion of his military service they returned to Grand Forks where Clara worked for the UND Registrar’s Office. While at UND, she continued her education by earning her master’s degree. She then worked as an Administrative Assistant at the UND Geological Survey, a job she held until her retirement.

Clara loved time with her family. She enjoyed time at the lake, travel and reading. She was a dedicated member and volunteer at United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks.

Survivors include her children, Lisa (Jeff) Swenson, Denver, CO, Larry Laughlin, Grand Forks and Lori Johnson, Grand Forks; grandchildren, Jennie Swenson, BJ Swenson, Andrew Swenson (Shandra), Alyssa Laughlin, Rachel Laughlin, Tom Johnson and David Johnson; great grandchildren, Isabella Johnson, Easton Johnson, Emerson Johnson and Pacey Johnson.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Joe in 2001; her parents; Gunder and Gunhild Knutson; sister, Gudrun Giere; and granddaughter, Cammie Johnson.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, April 23, 2022 at United Lutheran Church of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for one hour before the service in the church. Burial will be in Memorial Park North Cemetery of Grand Forks. Arrangements are with Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks.

Memorials may be sent to United Lutheran Church in memory of Clara Laughlin.