Affordable Cremation & Burial - Obituaries

Harry I Eliason

Tue, 19 May 2026 12:22:57

Heaven ushered in a hero of the faith on May 18, 2026. Harry Irving Eliason, 85, surrounded by his family was welcomed to his forever home by his Lord and Savior after a courageous but swift battle with cancer. Harry was born in Duluth, MN on December 23, 1940 to parents Walter and Elida Eliason. He was the 7th of 9 children. He graduated from Duluth Denfeld High School in 1959. In 1967 along with James Daly they opened their business, Lakehead Clutch and Brake, where they helped the community brake safely and run smoothly. He retired in 2003 and yet he never really retired. Up until a month and a half before his death he still worked 1 ½ days a week alongside his sons where he continued to share his wisdom, not only in the rebuilding of clutches and brakes but in living a life of integrity. Harry was a part of the local dirt track racing community. He was affectionately known as Horse Power Harold for his expertise in building race car engines for his brother’s, son’s, and grandson’s cars and was looking forward to the next generation of racing with his great grandson. In January of 1961 Harry married the love of his life, Judith Peterson. Together for 65 years they built a life rooted in faith and family. The love of God and family was the theme in Harry’s life, starting with the strong relationships he had with his siblings, especially his brothers. That family bond was strengthened even more as he and Judie raised 4 children and then went on to love and adore 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. His family was the joy in his life. Harry attended Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown, MN where he walked out his faith in the saving grace of Jesus Christ each and every day. He was proceeded in death by his son Todd, his parents and parents in law Arnold and Lillian Peterson, his siblings, Gordy, Viola, Eleanor, George, Jim, John and Roger and many extended family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Judie, daughter Kelly Smith (Bob), sons, Tim (Ann) and Troy (Sam). His 11grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, his remaining sibling Margaret Ripley and many extended family members. He will be greatly missed but what he taught us in faith and family will live on as we honor in our lives the man we loved and looked up to. Now enter into your rest good and faithful servant. A service to honor Harry will be held on Friday, May 22 at Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown MN. 5692 Maple Grove Road Hermantown MN 55811. Visitation will begin at 2pm with a service to follow at 5pm. Dinner and fellowship will follow immediately after the service at the church.

Marilyn D Hougas

Wed, 27 May 2026 19:03:53

Marilyn Delores Hougas (Schultz), age 69, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Duluth after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. For the last 20 years she resided with her husband in Two Harbors, MN. She was born on August 18, 1956, In Wakefield,, Nebraska to Clifford Schultz and Delores Schultz (Johnson). Marilyn devoted her life to caring for others both personally and professionally. Throughout her career, she worked as a COTA and CNA at St. Mary’s Hospital, The North Shore Estates, Waterview Shores, Lake View Hospital, and Minnehaha Elementary School. She touched many lives through her compassion, patience, and dedication to helping others. Marilyn was a talented seamstress who loved crafting and creating beautiful things with her hands. More than anything, she treasured time spent with her family. She was the heart and rock of her family — always strong, loving, and dependable. Her smile could light up a room, and she had a remarkable ability to find positivity even in difficult situations. She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Hougas; her children, Jennifer Swanson, James Swanson, and Jonathan Swanson; her grandchildren Anthony, Wyatt, Matthew, Levi and Oliver Swanson; her brothers, John Schultz (Cheryl), Steve Schultz (Becky), Danny Schultz, Robert Schultz (Berta), and half-brother Tim Anderson; along with many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Delores Schultz (Johnson) and Clifford Schultz; her sister, Donna Jean; her brothers, Randy Schultz and Clifford Schultz Jr.; and her aunt, Marlene Johnson. Marilyn will be remembered for her kindness, strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. A private burial will be held in Earl, WI.

Marjorie J Lehman

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:40:11

Marjorie Jean (Marquette) Lehman, 84, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 after a long battle with dementia. She was born June 23, 1941 in Buffalo, MN to Leland and Hattie Marquette. She attended Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf in Faribault, MN. She married LeRoy H Lehman, Jr in Febuary 1970. They had two daughters, Lenora Lehman and Natalie (Lehman) Stanley. They had 8 grandchildren, Timothy Lehman, Cameron Stanley, Corey Lehman, Keegan Stanley, Andrew Lehman, Jessica Jacobson, Elizabeth Lehman and Melissa Lehman. She's preceded in death by LeRoy Lehman, Jr, sister, Lillian Randall, brothers Ernest (Buck) Marquette and Gary Marquette, parents Leland and Hattie Marquette. She also was preceded in death by her 1st granddaughter, Ashley Lehman. She is survived by her daughters, Lenora Lehman (Kevin Silvers) and Natalie (Eric) Stanley sister-in-law Arlene Marquette and niece, Nila Spike. A memorial service will be held at Pine Hill Lutheran Church, 5702 Old Hwy 61, in Duluth, MN conducted by Pastor Karen Witowski on Friday, May 22 at 3 pm. Public is welcome and a sign language interpreter will be provided. All cards and flowers can be sent to Natalie Stanley, 2611 Banks Avenue, Superior, WI 54880.

David J. Derbis

Fri, 29 May 2026 15:49:17

It is with heavy yet hopeful hearts, and with profound gratitude and love for a life well lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of David John Derbis on May 13, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota.

Born on May 6, 1944, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, David was one of five beloved children of Helen Hudak Derbis and John Derbis Jr, who preceded him in death, along with his sister, Donna Bergdahl (David). He is survived by his sister, Diane (Andy) Hornstein; his brothers, Jack (Mary) Derbis and Jim (Colleen) Derbis; and his devoted partner, Linda Peterson, who stood by his side 26 years through the joys, wonder, highs and lows of life. Together, they loved spending time at their lovely home in Lake Nebagamon — their own “Lake Wobegon” — and sitting by the fire watching the world go by. They enjoyed time with their dogs, and cruising the Northland including the shores: snacking, listening to music, and enjoying the simple beauty of everyday life.

David’s legacy lives on through his children: Josh Ranta; Kale Derbis and his spouse, Kendall (and their children Katherine and David); Abra Derbis and her spouse, Ben (and their children Neyawynn, Wylder, Oliver, and Max); and John Derbis and his spouse, Katy (and their children Margot, Sloane, and John). His nine grandchildren were fabulous beacons of joy for David, and he delighted in each of their unique spirits. David believed deeply in celebrating the magic of childhood and the transformative power of art, music, and play.

David was proud of his hitchhiking days with his Martin guitar across the country and California, his time in New Orleans filled with great food, music, and people, and his life in Canada where his time was deeply introspective and stoic—what was as much of a spiritual journey as it was physical.

A fiercely passionate artist, an alumnus of the University of Minnesota and later the University of Minnesota Duluth — “Go Dogs” — David earned his Master of Fine Arts, a testament to his lifelong passion for creativity and expression, inspired heavily by the expressionism movement in painting. His career as a counselor allowed him to touch countless lives with empathy, wisdom, and understanding. His time in Hawaii filled David with the spirit and soul of the land, the sea, the air, and the humanity. David was a poet, a folk musician, a wonderful cook, an orator, and a gifted and talented human who saw life as an opportunity to frolic in the mystic.

When he moved his family to Duluth, MN in 1989, David found his niche in the world on the shores of Lake Superior, nestled close to the hills and stream of Chester Bowl where every winter the family would rent skis and brave the -50 degree windchill temps for “one last run.”

A musician’s musician and an artist to his fiber, Dave carried a business card in the 90s that humbly and powerfully declared him simply as “Artist,” a title he bore proudly — forever seeing beyond the painted veil of the world and remaining deeply connected to humanity through a lens not often captured or revered. Dave painted many houses through his business, fell off his share of ladders, developed an art program for the schools in Duluth, and sought to influence the world through Peace and with Love.

David’s passion for equality resonated through his life, delivering those messages of peace, love, and rolling good times. David lived his life as a true merrymaker and troubadour, embodying the essence of the wandering storyteller, believing this land was made for you and me. In high school, his band the “Innsmen” rocked the sock hop and embodied California dreaming.

His creative soul found expression in melodies, vibrant artwork, and the written word, culminating in his book, "Learning to Fly," a collection of lyrics and his own turn of phrase from his heroes that wove the tapestry of his life and his legacy through music and art.

Heavily influenced by the “Tao Te Ching” as well as the “Joy of Cooking,” and his own unique philosophy he called "Dude-ism," David's outlook on life embraced Eastern philosophies blended with his Orthodox Catholic heritage raised Methodist. He could often be found gazing into the fire, remembering his years in Canada and contemplating the magic of the human condition. His approach was one of fortitude and grace, wit and song, always encouraging us to choose to engage with life’s beautiful potential and never forget to bend over and crack a smile. Passionate in his writings—especially letters—David loved Firesign Theater, The Incredible String Band, John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, Emmylou Harris, and Bob Dylan to name a few, and staunchly agreed with The Kingston Trio that he didn’t give a heck about the greenback dollar, spend it as fast as he can. And in case you were ever worried about David, don’t: you can’t catch him, he’s the gingerbread man.

David will be remembered by many for his warm heart, his capacity for unwavering kindness to all living things, and his ability to inspire those around him to see the world through the lens of beauty, possibility, and pacifism. His life was a testament to the power of art to heal, connect, and transform; the power of music to transcend time, space, and consciousness; and the duality of life and love through Yin and Yang. A strong black dark coffee, a soak in the tub doing the crossword puzzle, a cold beer, and BBQ as medicine.

May the music of David’s life continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Mr. moon, moon, bright and shiny moon, won’t you please shine down on me.

“May the long time Sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you guide you along the way.”

We love you dad. We love you so much

Gerald D. Suomala

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:14:19

Gerald Duane Suomala, of Duluth MN, passed away at home on May 10, 2026. Gerald was born on July 18, 1952. He enjoyed saunas, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling, fishing in Canada and going south for the winter. Gerald is survived by his wife Robin, 2 brothers Donald and JoAnne Suomala and Richard and Harriet Suomala, 3 sons Chris and Jodie Suomala, Dale and Yvette Suomala and Daniel and Billie Suomala, along with a great grandchild, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Gerald is predeceased by his parents Tauno and Elizabeth (Betsy) Suomala, and sister Sharon.

Robert H. Schafer

Fri, 08 May 2026 14:12:49

Robert “Bob” Herman Schafer passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87. Bob was born on May 18, 1938, to Herman and Myrtle (Lunke) Schafer. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church in Duluth and was a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Munger. Bob graduated from Denfeld High School in 1956 and later attended UMD for two years. A talented musician, he played for many years both the accordion and piano with Johnny’s Accordianaires. He worked at MN DOT, MP&L, and Carlton County Courthouse retiring in 2000. Bob was first married to June Frear, and together they had four children. After 20 years of marriage, they later divorced. On July 9, 1983, Bob married Darlene (Soderquist) Oachs at Hope Lutheran Church in Munger. They shared 42 happy years together and made their home in Proctor. Bob enjoyed country, line, and square dancing, playing cards with friends, and decorating outdoors for Christmas. His Christmas displays earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place honors over the years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Myrtle Schafer; his daughter, Susan McCorison; his son, Mark Schafer; stepdaughter Sheila Oachs Kosel; and stepsons Scott and Stanley Oachs. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; his sons, Dan (Kathy) Schafer and Tom Schafer; son-in-law Richard McCorison; and stepson Steven Oachs (Patty Opoien.) He is also survived by his grandchildren Hannah (Seth), Sarah, Heather, Brandi, Shayne, Anthony, Cassandra, Cosette, Rick Jr., Ryan, Amber, Loren, and numerous step-grandchildren, including Eric, Adriane, Alex, along with many great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his many friends and church family. Bob will be remembered for his love of music, dancing, family gatherings, and the kindness he shared with everyone who knew him.

Robert Lufholm

Sat, 09 May 2026 12:58:34

Bob went to be with his Lord on May 6, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother and friend. He was born, raised and spent most of his life in the Duluth area. Bob volunteered in various capacities for over 30 years in local Covenant churches and has recently been active with the Eagle Brook Church viewing group in Duluth. After retirement he volunteered at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior. Bob was a life member of the Minnesota Society of CPAs and practiced public accounting in the Duluth area for 40 years until his retirement. Bob was the son of Raymond and Margaret Lufholm and survived by his wife, Laurel, of over 58 years, and his children, Amanda (Kevin Sternal), Matt (Travina) Lufholm, Emily (Scott Clementson) and grandson Thorsten Clementson. Bob is also survived by his sister Margaret Mattson and nephews and nieces. Funeral Service will be held 11 AM Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Salem Covenant Church, 339 N 59th Ave W, Duluth, MN. There will be a visitation one hour prior to service, burial to follow at Oneota Cemetery in Duluth, MN. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Eagle Brook Church, 7015 20^th Ave., Centerville, MN or The Richard I. Bong Historical Center, 305 Harbor View Parkway, Superior, WI 54880.

Raymond R. Olaf

Fri, 22 May 2026 16:59:34

In Loving Memory of our brother Raymond Olaf who passed away May 6th, 2026 you always be loved and missed and forever in our hearts. Raymond is survived by two sisters, Renee (Bob Linn), South Range, Roseann (John Ratzer), Duluth, MN; three brothers, Ronald Olaf Crosby MN., Richard Olaf, Lakeside, Robert Olaf, Lakeside; several nieces, nephews, and cousins He is proceeded by his wife Tammy Olaf and parents Raymond SR and Faith Olaf and brother Rodney Olaf.

Patricia Jones

Sat, 09 May 2026 12:50:32

Patricia Ann Jones was born in Superior, Wisconsin, on October 20, 1951. She passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Pat is survived by her daughter, Miranda Jones of Superior, Wisconsin; her grandchildren, Seth Jones and Kristine Norman, of Superior, Wisconsin; her brother, Steven Jones of Superior, Wisconsin; her sisters, Rebecca (Bill) Jonasen of Superior, Wisconsin, and Terri (Skip) Ferris of Gilbert, Minnesota; as well as many nieces and nephews. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Elsie Sandahl, and Sherwood Jones; her grandparents; and her aunts and uncles. Pat was a talented artist who primarily painted and drew. She also enjoyed crafts, music, genealogy, cooking, and spending time with her family. She attended Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Superior, Wisconsin. A celebration of Pat’s life will be held at Parkland Town Hall in Superior, Wisconsin, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.A celebration of life for Pat at the Moose Lodge in Superior, WI on May 16, 2026 at 11am to 2pm for family and friends.

Daniel G Machado

Tue, 12 May 2026 15:04:46

Daniel George Machado, 45, died peacefully in his sleep in Duluth on May 4, 2026.

Daniel was born on December 12, 1980, and always celebrated a group birthday in December with his beloved stepdad and sister. Daniel was a gentle soul with an easy smile and appreciation for the little things. He was a consummate nerd who loved Star Trek, Star Wars, cartoons, and watching Antique Roadshow with his mom. He was immensely proud of his sneaker and secondhand watch collection and loved scouring thrift stores for good deals. He loved running….on Dunkin’ Donuts coffee.

Daniel was a fan of all Los Angeles sports teams - especially the Kings - and played goalie and coached ice hockey in his younger years. He was a handyman who could always be counted on to tinker with and fix machines of all kinds. He cherished the time he spent volunteering with his mom, delivering Meals on Wheels and cleaning their Adopt-a-Highway section in honor of his stepfather, David Surges.

Daniel loved to camp and travel with his brother, Vinnie. The two of them regularly spent time at Vinnie's house watching their favorite shows, cheering on their LA sports teams, and playing blackjack and poker with the family. He had a great laugh and we will miss it, and him, dearly.

Daniel was obsessed with music. He taught himself guitar when he was a teenager and has a prized collection to pass on to his family. His favorite music ranged from Beethoven to Cloud Cult to Ghost and he could always be counted on to quote a song lyric in a text.

His nieces and nephew were the lights of his life and Uncle Daniel always had a fun snack to give them a smile. He gave excellent hugs and always made people and animals feel at ease in his presence.

He is preceded in death by his stepfather, David Surges. He is survived by his mother, Vicki Surges, and father, Ernesto Machado, as well as his siblings Marisa (Bryan) Machado, Jason (Erika) Surges, Veronica (Paul) Surges, Vinnie (Allison) Surges, and Madeleine (Corey) Patz, and his partner Lindsey Mosiniak.

A memorial and burial service will be held on Friday, September 4th, at 10:30am at Forest Hill Cemetery, Duluth.

In lieu of flowers, Duluth Whole Foods Co-Op gift cards for Daniel's mom Vicki can be purchased (and left) at Whole Foods Co-Op 218-728-0884, for Vicki Surges. Money for Vicki can also be sent to @Veronica-Surges on Venmo.

Astrid H Shykes

Wed, 13 May 2026 10:23:13

ASTRID HILMA SHYKES Age 88, of Duluth, MN, passed away on May 3, 2026. She was born on February 23, 1938, in Ashland, WI. and grew up to live a life full of warmth, laughter, and a deep devotion to the people she loved. Astrid was a devoted Mother. She was a troop leader for her children’s Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She enjoyed reading, playing bridge, doing crafts, gardening and of course, a good cup of tea. Astrid is preceded in death by her loving husband Matthew, of over 60 years, Parents, Brother, Sister, and several in-laws. Astrid is survived by her children; Ricky (Carmen), Theresa (Thomas) Coombe, Scott, and Susan (David) Stocke; grandchildren, Tahnee (Johny) Shykes, Abbey Shykes, Jennier (Scott) Seagren, Steven (Whitney) Jeanetta, Danielle (Alex) Forsell, Michael (Natalie) Stocke, Kevin (Emily) Stocke and Samantha Stocke; great grandchildren, Jocelyn, Dalton, Matthew, Elizabeth, Johnny, Isabella, Conner, Austin, Kimber, Zenna, Oliver, Jack and Ella; and 6 siblings. The funeral will be at 10AM on June 13, 2026, at St Michael Catholic Church in Iron River, WI.

Elsie M Norman

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:08:18

Elsie Mary Norman, 70, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 1, 1955, to Clarinda Rud. Elsie married her soulmate, Howie Norman, on October 14, 1997. She dedicated many years of her life to caring for others as a nurse, working at BayShore, Edgewood Vista, Viewcrest, and the Center for Drugs and Alcohol. Elsie found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments; tending to her garden, spending time at the cabin, and most of all, spoiling her grandchildren. She also had a gentle heart for animals. Elsie will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 29 years, Howie; children, John Carey (Maria), Rick Carey, Jenny Norman, Mike Norman, Keely Aho (Andrew), and Ashley Norman; and grandchildren, Alyssa, Adalee, Johnny Jr., Taylor, Logan, Svea, Harper, Riley, Benjamin, and Dylan. Elsie is also survived by her brother-in-law Larry (Diane) Norman; sisters-in-law Diane (Don) Hoffman and Janet (Dale) Larson; special nieces Bonnie Berggren and Wendy Johnson. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Vickie Komanti, Eda Kangas Laurrie Gavitt, and Krysta Priley for the wonderful care and compassion they provided over the years. Per Elsie’s wishes, no service will be held. For those wishing to send a card, the family can be reached at: 2621 Englewood Drive Duluth, MN 55811