Elizabeth Shelstad

Elizabeth “Beth” (Olson) Shelstad, age 69, passed away at Essentia Health St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, Minnesota on December 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Beth was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 22, 1954 to Herbert and Ferda Olson, completing their family of five. She grew up and attended school in St. Louis Park. From an early age, Beth showed great talent in music, playing piano, singing, and performing in musicals. She graduated from St. Louis Park High School in 1973, and attended Augsburg College. Despite growing up only two miles apart in the Twin Cities, Beth met Dixon, the love of her life, in Crosslake, where both had family cabins. They were united in marriage on September 22, 1978, and moved to Grand Rapids where they welcomed their daughter, Riana, in 1982. They settled in Ely shortly thereafter. It was here that they built their life together for the past 40 years. Beth had numerous interesting jobs in the Ely area, culminating in a role at SATO Travel, from which she retired in 2014.

Beth loved her family fiercely and fully, and made sure they knew it - especially her grandchildren, who were the center of her universe. She was quick to offer a fun activity, an inspiring quote, a word of wisdom, or a listening ear. Beth could often be seen cheering them on from the sidelines of their games - pompom in hand. Summer found her at their lake property in Merrifield, enjoying pontoon rides, watching the grandchildren swim and tube, playing games, and going on golf cart adventures. Beth also enjoyed combining her artistic ability with her gift of calligraphy and handwriting. She created cards, art, and signs for all occasions. Whether with friends or family, she loved to laugh, and her sneaky wit would often catch you off guard.

Beth was an instant friend to all who crossed her path. She shared her light spirit, her soft nature, and kind soul with anyone she met. Despite decades of health struggles and pain, she showed unbelievable courage, determination, and strength, keeping her amazing and inspiring outlook on life. Beth was ever grateful for the friendly and compassionate care she received from the doctors, nurses, and staff at the clinic and hospital who helped her navigate so many difficult times.

As her physical and medical issues multiplied, she became that much stronger in mind and spirit. Beth’s spirituality was the foundation of her life. All of her challenges were met with the courage she found in her Christian faith. She studied the Bible regularly, always wishing to explore her beliefs more deeply. Her faith was at the core of everything she did and said.

Beth was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Ferda Olson, sister Catherine Gettman, and brother William Gregory Olson. She is survived by her loving family, who absolutely adored her and will miss her dearly: husband Dixon; daughter Riana (Tim) Hegman; grandchildren Jakson, Charlotte, and Sawyer Hegman; many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life on February 7th, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Grand Ely Lodge. A private interment will be held on a later date. Funeral services have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, please honor Beth by sharing your kindness and compassion with those around you.

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