Affordable Cremation & Burial - Obituaries

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.

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.

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

Eleanor Rilea

Thu, 07 May 2026 13:26:05

Eleanor Katherine (Henninger) Rilea, 85, went home to be with her Lord on April 26, 2026 in her home at home with the love of her life by her side.

Eleanor, the sixth of seven children, was born to Ralph and Nora (Fall) Henninger on 22 November 1941 and raised in the Dunkard Brethren faith on a dairy farm in Barnum, MN. Being the only daughter, she learned the necessary skills of homemaking and especially enjoyed sewing, embroidery, crocheting, gardening and excelled at singing in the church choir. Eleanor met Marvin at that Brethren church when they were 10 years old. They attended school at Central School together and graduated Barnum High School in 1959. She married Marvin Russell Rilea on 17 Jul 1959, Carlton, Minnesota and was a full-time wife and mother to her husband and seven children on the farm in Barnum. As a long-time member of Sandy Lake Baptist Church, she was always busy, full of faith, and quick to see the good in others. After Marvin retired they traveled in their RV all over the United States.

Eleanor leaves behind her husband of 66 years, Marvin, and children: Darwin (Jeri) Rilea, Cloquet, Duane (Naomi) Rilea, Kailua-Kona, HI, Douglas (Vicky) Rilea, Kettle River, Dennis (Rhonda) Rilea, Idaho, Maria (Robert) Young, Springfield, MO, Dale Rilea, Barnum, and brother Gordon Henniger, Barnum, 20 grandkids, 54 great-grandkids, and 4 great-great-grandkids. She was preceeded in death by her eldest daughter, Sheila (Corey) Putney and brothers James, Edwin, Donald, Ernest, and Vernon There will be a Celebration of Life for her with a potluck dinner May 23rd from noon to 4 at Blackhoof Community Center, Barnum. Family and friends are invited to bring their favorite dish and memories of Eleanor.

Katherine A. Decker

Fri, 08 May 2026 11:13:51

Katherine “Kathy” Ann Decker (Hallfrisch) February 28, 1958 – April 26, 2026 Katherine “Kathy” Ann Decker (Hallfrisch) passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Essentia Health, surrounded by her loving children and family. Kathy was born on February 28, 1958, in Duluth, Minnesota. She graduated from Denfeld High School and went on to attend VoTech, where she earned her Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) degree. She began her nursing career at St. Luke’s Hospital and later devoted many years to caring for the elderly at Franciscan Health Center, where she remained until her retirement at the age of 62. Kathy shared 42 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Earl “Jerry” Decker. The two were married on June 27, 1981, and built a life centered on love, family, and dedication. She was a devoted wife, mother, and caregiver who found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. Whether attending sporting events, gathering with loved ones, or enjoying weekends at the cabin, Kathy cherished every moment with those closest to her. Kathy was preceded in death by her husband Jerry Decker, parents, Richard and Doris Hallfrisch - Lois Croston and her brother, Steve Croston. She is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Joe Hallfrisch, Daniel Hallfrisch, and David Hallfrisch, sister, Dawn Mahon; her children, Ronald Decker, Danielle Peterson, Trisha Decker, and Matthew Decker; and her cherished grandchildren, X’avier Decker, Aubrey Decker, Nevaeh Peterson, and Adelie Peterson.

Kevin R. Gow

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:15:45

Kevin Gow December 25, 1956 - April 20, 2026 Kevin was a carpenter, master leather worker, blade smith and a prodigious hunter of Keystone Light. He enjoyed using his talents to make creations for his loved ones and was generous in his sharing of his considerable talents. One of Kevin’s greatest gifts in later life was reconnecting with his son, Josh. Being able to see Josh’s growth into an amazing man meant the world to Kevin. He was present at Josh’s promotions at work and was happy to have Josh visit (and help fix things), meet Carissa (Josh’s fiancée) and babysit his granddog, Huckleberry. Being able to see and call his son provided Kevin great comfort. Kevin passed away after spending two years in hospice. Thank you, Aspirus St. Luke’s Hospice for the amazing care of both Kevin and Julie during this final journey. Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Julie, son Josh (Carissa), daughter Samantha, loving sister-in-law Valerie and new pup, Jax. Kevin has been training Jax to be Julie’s love and support for when he can’t be around to give her a hug. Kevin was preceded in death by anyone who died before him. Per Kevin’s wishes, there will be a private celebration of life later this summer.

Tanya L Philstrom

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:57:05

Tanya Louise Philstrom, age 56, passed away on April 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 22, 1969, and lived a life rooted in love, creativity, and deep devotion to those closest to her.

Tanya will be remembered for her vibrant personality and the warmth she brought into every room. She was outgoing and talkative, with an easy ability to connect with others and make them feel seen and valued. Her compassionate and caring nature defined her, and she was deeply family-oriented, always putting the needs of her loved ones first.

Tanya worked as a hairdresser, a career that perfectly reflected her love for people. She built meaningful relationships with her clients, who often became friends, and she took pride not only in her work but in the confidence and joy she helped bring to others. Her chair was a place of laughter, conversation, and connection.

In her retirement, Tanya found joy in crocheting, knitting, and creating beautiful diamond art pieces. She loved working with her hands and often shared her creations with those she loved. These hobbies reflected her patience, creativity, and the care she put into everything she did.

Above all, Tanya cherished her role as a grandmother. Being “Grandma” was one of her greatest joys, and she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren—Evelyn, Barrett, Remington, Lorenzo, and Brayden. Whether she was spending quiet time with them, sharing stories, or simply enjoying their presence, those moments filled her heart.

She is survived by her partner, Grant Larson; her children, Nikkia (Mike) Zarns, Nikko Philstrom, Nathan Bjerk (Nichole Lopez), and Noelle Bjerk (Jacob Backes); her sisters, Angie (Dave) Lasserre and Hiedi Philstrom; and her many beloved nieces and nephews. Tanya’s love for her family was unwavering, and her legacy lives on through each of them.

Tanya was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Linda Philstrom; her brother, Jason Philstrom; and her grandparents, Russ (Bea) Philstrom and Robert (Elizabeth) Miller.

Tanya’s life was not measured by titles or accolades, but by the love she gave, the relationships she built, and the memories she created. Her laughter, kindness, and creative spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Princeton, Minnesota. Burial will take place at Cambridge Union Cemetery at a later date.

Helen J. Nelson

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:04:52

Helen Joan (Erickson) Nelson passed away on April 19, 2026 in Hermantown, Minnesota. She was born in Chamberlain, South Dakota to Ted and Martha (Workman) Erickson on January 5^th 1933. Her parents moved to Berlin, NH when Helen was a small child where she spent her growing up years. After graduation she moved back to Chamberlain, SD with her family at 19 years of age. It was here that she received living faith in the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. She was a steadfast member for the remainder of her life. She moved to Minneapolis where she was united in marriage to Robert Nelson on February 14^th 1959. They resided in northern Minnesota for the rest of their lives. It was here they raised their seven children. Robert (Ruth) Nelson, Stephanie (Mike) Tommaro, Wendy (Rod) Hammerstrom, Holly (John) Hiivala, Randy Nelson, Harold (Lynn) Nelson, and Heather (Seth) Levanen. She is survived by her seven children and their spouses, 46 grandchildren, 164 great grandchildren, 13 great-great grandchildren, and a host of Christian friends and family. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert, two brothers, Wayne and Gordon Anderson, grandson Aaron Hammerstrom, great grandson Seth Davis and great, great granddaughter Louisa Tanninen.

Twenty-Third Psalm KJV

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Helen M. Bong

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:28:47

Helen Marie Bong, age 92, went to be with her Lord Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Inter-Faith Care Center in Carlton. She was born July 26, 1933 in Cloquet, Mn to Maurice and Hilda (Bjork) Tromblay. She moved to the farm in Saginaw on Easter April 9, 1944 and "can you imagine with no electricity or running water." She graduated from Brookston School with honors in 1951 and obtained a full 3 year scholarship to the St Luke's School of Nursing. She was proud to have been selected to be a representative at MN Girls All State and to have 4H projects at the MN State Fair. She was united in marriage to Kenneth Bong on August 2, 1952. Helen was an avid knitter and proudly stated that she had knit over 1000 sweaters along with scarves, mittens, and slippers. She loved to read and garden and her yard looked like a beautiful park in the summertime. She was an active member of Presbyterian Church of Cloquet where she participated on many committees and activities. Her greatest pride of all was in her children and grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth, daughter Vicky(Joel) Wilson, son Bradley Bong, her siblings and their spouses, and her in-laws. She is survived by son Keith (Nan) Bong, daughters Barbara Bong, Luanne (Kim Mathias) Kaspszak, and Kimberly Kuhl. Grandchildren Valerie Ferdinand, Benjamin Bong, Eric Bong, Logan Bong, Samuel Kaspszak, Sorrel Kaspszak, Mackenzie (Alex) Boddy, Lucas Kuhl, Randi (Alec) Junkert, Ryan Bong, great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and a sister-in-law Carol(Lloyd)Bong.

Linda M. Lind

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:40:13

Linda Marie (Heyn) Lind, 78, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Aftenro Nursing Home. Born on July 12, 1947, to Curtis and Virginia (Zech) Heyn, Linda was the second of five daughters. She was raised in a devout Catholic family in Duluth’s “Little Italy” neighborhood. Linda attended both parochial and public schools and graduated from Central High School in 1965. On March 18, 1967, she married her high school sweetheart, Paul Lind. The couple settled in Duluth Heights, where they welcomed three children: Bryan (1969), Barbara (1973), and Elizabeth (1975). In 1978, the family moved to the Woodland neighborhood of Duluth. Linda and Paul later divorced in 1983. Throughout her life, Linda held a wide variety of jobs in the service industry including management. Linda was known for her strong work ethic, adaptability, and steady, thoughtful nature—qualities that made her a valued employee wherever she worked. She retired in 2020 after nearly 20 years of employment at the Holiday Inn Laundry Department in Downtown Duluth. Linda had many interests, including fishing, amateur photography, gardening, sewing, and crafting, but she was especially passionate about reading. She explored a wide range of subjects and had a particular fascination with the human body and how it worked—an interest that led many to say she would have made an excellent doctor. She will be remembered for her quick wit, honesty, and her deep, unconditional love for her children and grandchildren. Linda was preceded in death by her parents and her grandson, Alexander Schlais. She is survived by her children: Bryan Lind (Sheryl Decal), Barbara Schlais (Ken), and Elizabeth Mayne; her grandchildren: Amanda and Abigail Schlais; Katelyn, Lukas, and Derek Mayne; her four sisters; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Linda’s family would like to acknowledge the outstanding service and care Linda received from the Essentia Hospice team and the staff at Aftenro Nursing Home. In accordance with Linda’s wishes, no funeral will be held. A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 PM at the College of St. Scholastica Student Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Linda’s Memorial Tree Fund c/o Elizabeth Mayne, 1910 Standford Ave, Duluth, MN 55811 or Venmo @bethmayne (4070) to support the planting of trees in her memory by her family.

Sandra Lee Hartshorn ((Latscher))

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:38:06

Sandy Lee Hartshorn (Latscher) March 31, 1946 – April 9, 2026 Sandy L. Hartshorn peacefully went home to her Heavenly Father while residing at Villa Marina in Superior, WI. Sandy is survived by her loving son, Joseph (Joe), and her cherished furry companions, Woody and Ellie. She was preceded in death by her ex-husband and best friend, Ernie Hartshorn; her parents, Floyd and Eldora (Nickerson) Latscher; and her special friend, Bob Day. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Peter (Denise), Nancy (Mike Doolittle), Robert (Debbie), Tom (Tracie), Kathi (Patrick Moore), and Becky (Tim Carroll). Sandy also held a special place in her heart for the “children” she helped raise after the passing of her dear friend Fran: Katie Bates, Linda Coleman (Day), and Mary McGregor (Day). Those who affectionately called her “Granny Sandy” include Austin, Frances, Cadigan, McLaine, Annora, Eleanor, and Kylah. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: Amy (Mark Flatten), Kim Loftus, Greg Doolittle, Bob Latscher Jr., Matt Latscher (Angie), Kristen (Paul Swartz), and Katie (Paul Carland), along with many great-nieces and great-nephews. The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Sandy’s dear friends, Carol Wiggins and Maxine Luzaich, whose constant companionship and care always reflected Sandy’s best interests, and to Jon Papineau, Sandy and Joe’s close friend, who was always there to help with Sandy’s many “projects” that no one else could manage. Sandy’s deep love for Lake Superior and Connors Point will forever bring smiles and laughter to her family, who fondly remember her floating happily and peacefully in the water. Sandy also loved birdwatching and enjoyed the abundance of feathered visitors at her home on Connors Point. Her compassion and lifelong dedication to helping others—especially those she proudly championed as the “underdog”—formed the cornerstone of her legacy. That same love carried into her work at local nursing care facilities, where she consistently brought kindness, warmth, and smiles to everyone’s day. Sandy will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known her, loved her, and be touched by her generous spirit. A private ceremony will be held later this summer with family and friends.