Goodridge (trfnews.i234.me) — Eleanor “Ellie” Richards Horachek of Goodridge has died at the age of 92, according to family information. Horachek passed away on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.
Horachek was born Nov. 11, 1933, in Bolton, England. She was the youngest of four daughters born to James and Eleanor (Crashaw) Richards. She attended schools in Bolton and began working at age 16 as a yarn tester at Cannons Cotton Mill.
Early Life in England
Horachek was a child during World War II. Family members said she shared strong memories from that time. Her home was bombed during the war, damaging the house. She later marked her 12th birthday on VE Day, which ended the war in Europe.
Marriage and Life in Minnesota
She met her future husband, Donnie Horachek, in Blackpool, England. He was serving in the U.S. Air Force at the time. They were married on April 9, 1954, at St. Peter and Paul’s Church in Bolton.
In 1957, the couple built a home in rural Goodridge. They farmed together until Donnie Horachek died in 1993. She became a U.S. citizen in 1994, according to the family.
She was active at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Goodridge. She served for years with the Ladies’ Aide. She also worked as treasurer for the National Farmers Organization. The couple also operated the Trapper & Trader Steakhouse and Lounge, later known as Miz Ellie’s.
Family and Interests
Family members said she enjoyed reading and cooking. She liked crossword puzzles and needlework. That included sewing, knitting, and crocheting. She also enjoyed watching sports on television.
She is survived by her daughters, Bernadine “Berny” Vraa of Goodridge, Suzette (Larry) Johnsrud of Goodridge, and Fern Johnsrud of Goodridge. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, along with extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Horachek, and her parents. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Betty Conchie, Beatrice Baldwin, and Bertha Billingham, along with other family members.
Service Details
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Goodridge. Visitation will be held one hour before the service. Burial will be at the Czech National Cemetery in rural Goodridge.
The family thanked staff at Oakland Park Assisted Living in Thief River Falls and HIA Hospice for care and support. Condolences may be shared through Johnson Funeral Service.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.