Miriam Camus Hauge, age 92, of Huron, was called home to Heaven on January 2, 2017, where she was joined by her husband, Chester, and all of the animals she had given love and care to in her lifetime.

Her funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at American Lutheran Church with burial at Restlawn Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1-3 pm on Friday, January 13, 2017 at Welter Funeral Home; or visitation one hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday at the church.

Miriam was born March 19, 1924 in Central California.  She met her husband, Chester Hauge, while waitressing tables where the military frequented.  It didn't take long before each knew they had found their match, and were married during wartime.

Miriam moved to South Dakota, home of Chester, and lived for over 60 years in Huron where Chester was the U.S. Postmaster.  The California girl found her home in the Midwest and became very active and involved in her community.  Miriam was the President of the Auxiliary of the American Legion for many years, working intensely on fundraisers and other projects, and it was an important part of her life.  She also was very involved with her American Lutheran Church, and worked for the Huron PTA for many years.

In her family, Miriam is most known for all of the animal rescue work she did in her lifetime.  Her nieces and nephews loved visiting her and playing with all of the animals.  Cats were her specialty and she saved them off the streets, filling her home and yard with cat beds, hideouts and safety.  For years, she also fed the feral cats in various areas of her neighborhood, riding her bicycle to each feeding station as she did not drive a car.  She was a true animal lover!

Twelve years ago, Miriam entered Sunquest Healthcare Center, and her remaining cats moved to her niece in Northern California where they lived out their lives.  Miriam was preceded in death by her husband, Chester.  She leaves behind three of Chester's sisters: Clara Pedersen, Dorothy & Leroy Eggink and Mabel Sorenson, two brother-in-laws Richard & Amy Lou Hauge and Melvin Hauge, and many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents and a one brother.

Miriam was an indomitable spirit, independent and full of life.  Many of us were enriched beyond measure by knowing and loving her.  Many blessings Aunt Miriam!  To God Be the Glory!