In Remembrance

Stella Annie (Schlee) Jennison, age 83, of Duluth, MN, passed peacefully on July 19, 2025, at Aspirus St. Luke’s in Duluth. She lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering love for her family and friends. She always had a radiant smile for everyone she met.

Born on July 12, 1942, in her hometown of Lawler, MN, she was the youngest daughter of Edward and Ethel (Hammarlund) Schlee, who preceded her in death along with her beloved oldest sister, Ellen.

She graduated from McGregor High School in 1964, returning to complete her diploma after taking time off to help on the family farm. She learned early the value of hard work and lending a hand to anyone in need. She also developed a lifelong love for animals and the outdoors.

Stella married Patrick Jennison on July 1, 1972, in Proctor, MN. They shared 42 years together, raising their daughter Tina, working hard into retirement, and bowling in many leagues. They took great pride in buying and paying off their home later in life, creating a space that was both a sanctuary for themselves and a welcoming place for friends.

Stella was very proud of her 28 years of work in the laundry department at St. Luke’s Hospital, retiring in 2011. She formed many friendships and enjoyed being part of a team that supported every department of the hospital. She particularly enjoyed delivering laundry to each floor and getting to know the staff. Co-workers remember her for her cheerful attitude and ever-present smile.

She was a member of the West Duluth and Proctor chapters of the Women of the Moose Lodge. Stella also sold Watkins home products to many loyal customers, forming several lifelong friendships. She worked hard cleaning at The Duluth Motel and for many private homes throughout the years to make ends meet, always showing pride in her work.

Stella embraced life’s simple joys with open arms. She loved animals of all kinds, flowers in bloom, scenic rides around Minnesota, and traveling with Tina on many occasions. She was always ready for an adventure, including a fearless helicopter ride in Maui.

Remarkably independent and resourceful, Stella navigated life with quiet strength. Though she never drove a car, she knew the DTA bus system inside and out, traveling throughout Duluth with ease.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, parents, and oldest sister, Stella is survived by her daughter Tina Schlee (Kurt Martwig); grandson Christopher Martwig (Jen); sister Joyce; and sisters-in-law Beverly Carlson and Mildred Jennison.

She is also survived by her bonus family members Paula Martwig (Mike) and her children Drake Willis and Sydnie Fitzgerald (Ryan and their son Bennett); Alice Martwig; Phyllis Makila; and her much-loved grand-dog, Bodhi.

She will be greatly missed by many nieces and nephews from the Carlson and Lamphier families. She loved them all deeply, always remembering birthdays and anniversaries.

She also enjoyed many special friendships and neighbors, with whom she shared a wonderful last 4th of July picnic. Tina wishes to thank them for their inclusive and nurturing care of Stella.

Tina would also like to thank Dr. Jay Knuths, Nicole Wilke, NP, Dr. Timothy Kleinschmidt, Dr. Sara Lund, Dr. Krishna Kolandaivel, and Lainee Hoffman, PA. In addition, she extends gratitude to the wonderful staff in the Emergency Department, Cardiac Floor 5, and the Palliative Care staff on 2-West for making Stella’s last weeks and months comfortable—their compassion was felt and appreciated. Thanks also to the home care staff (RNs, OT, PT, and CNAs) who came weekly, especially Joe, RN, with whom Stella shared a special connection.

Stella’s legacy is one of love, joy, and quiet strength. She will always be remembered for the way she made people feel welcomed, cared for, and deeply loved. Her spirit will live on in every smile she inspired, every kindness she shared, and every person whose life was brighter because of her.

“Where there is LOVE there is LIFE.” – Mahatma Gandhi