FLORENCE DORIS UNDERWOOD

July 28, 1923 – March 11, 2021

Florence Doris Underwood was born in Cannon Falls, Minnesota on July 28, 1923 to Anna and Iver Flom. She was the sixth child born into this large family. Her father passed away when she was young and she was raised by her mother and stepfather, John Jolstad.

Florence spent her youngest years in Minnesota. When she was a teenager the family moved to Pasadena, California where she attended and graduated from John Muir High School. Living next door to her, during this time, was a young man by the name of Ralph Underwood, who happened to catch her eye. They dated and enjoyed each other’s company, which led to their marriage when World War II began. Upon being discharged from the Army, Ralph, Florence and their infant daughter moved to Bakersfield, California. They made Bakersfield their home and went on to have 3 more children. Florence remained in Bakersfield for the rest of her life and Ralph preceded her in death in 2005.

Florence was active in the Lutheran Church both at Our Savior’s Lutheran and the last many years at Emmanuel Lutheran. At Emmanuel, she continued to bring homemade sweets for coffee hour until she was 97 years old. For many years, she was active in bible studies, women’s groups and supplying birthday cakes to residents in a nursing home. Her lifetime friends were friends she made at church.

Florence was a stay-at-home mom when her children were younger. As they got older, she began working with Ralph part-time in the field of dentistry.

She was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and belonged to the Sons of Norway organization for many years. When Ralph was living, they loved to take trips with the OK church group, exploring the United States in their RV, taking cruises, camping at Pismo Coast Village, spending time at their cabin, and numerous activities with their family.

Florence went to be with her Heavenly Father on March 11, 2021. She was lucky to be in her home with her family present up until her last day. Waiting for her to join them in heaven are her late husband Ralph, daughter Janet and great grandson Corbin. Left with great memories of their mom are Doris Hewes (Tim), Dennis Underwood (Gail) and Ron Underwood (Karen). Grandchildren Erik Boles, Anna McMurtrey, Shawn, Corey, Ryan, Chase and Cole Underwood and 14 great grandchildren.

Services will be held at Emmanuel Lutheran Church at 12:00pm on April 21, 2021 followed by a brief graveside service at Hillcrest Cemetery at 1:00pm.