Emma A. Olberding, 94, of rural Seneca, KS, in the St. Benedict community, died early morning on Wednesday, July 31, 2002, at Crestview Manor care home in Seneca. She had been admitted there a few days earlier.

She was born December 16, 1907, the daughter of Frank and Agnes Runnebaum, on a farm southwest of St. Benedict. She grew up there and attended St. Mary’s School in St. Benedict. Emma did domestic work at homes in the area before her marriage.

On April 25, 1939, she married Albert F. Olberding at St. Mary’s Church in St. Benedict. They farmed, raised cattle, and operated a dairy southwest of St. Benedict. Emma continued to live on the farm after her husband Albert died on December 8, 1980. Her daughter-in-law Betty and her son Albert, Jr. took care of her during her failing health.

Her memberships include St. Mary’s Church and the Altar Society at the church in St. Benedict, where she held various offices. Emma kept a large garden and took great pride in giving her home-canned goods to friends and family. She also enjoyed crocheting, bingo, visiting with her friends in person or via phone, and following her grandchildren in sports.

Survivors include a son, Albert F. Olberding, Jr. of Rt. 1, Seneca; four grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Teresa Olberding on February 27, 1941; a granddaughter, Mary Ann Olberding on September 27, 1973; four brothers, Bernard, Edward Vernice, and Henry Runnebaum; and two sisters, Marcella Runnebaum and Catherine Tanking.

Mass of Christian burial will be offered at 10 AM Friday at St. Mary’s Church in St. Benedict. Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Thursday at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be given for St. Mary’s Church or the St. Benedict Baseball Association, and sent in care of the family.