Edward L.

Ethington

Atkinson — Edward L. Ethington, 81, of Atkinson, died Monday, Feb. 17, 2025 at Parkside Manor in Stuart.

A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date  in the spring.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill is in charge of the arrangements.

Edward was born June 3, 1943 in Omaha, to Virgil and Lorraine (Claussen) Ethington. Edward's mother brought him to Atkinson when he was three years old to live with his Grandma and Grandpa Claussen. He then moved to his great-aunt and -uncle's, north of Emmet and lived with them throughout his adolescent years. Ed later graduated from Atkinson High School.

Ed met Mary Jane Fleek, of Chambers, on a blind date with some friends. They later married on June 8, 1964 in Lake Andes, SD. Over the next few years, they welcomed two sons Michael and Jess. 

Their family has lived on their property north of Emmet for the past 55 years. Edward farmed, ranched and drove truck.

Edward is survived by his wife of 60 years Mary Ethington of Atkinson, two sons Mike (Lori) Ethington and Jess (Natalie) Ethington, all of O'Neill, two brothers-in-law Edwin Fleek and Delbert (Kathy) Fleek, all of Chambers, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, as well as cousins, friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lorraine and Virgil Ethington, his great-aunt Mary Louis and his great-uncles Charlie and Rudy Claussen.