Elaine A. Palthe, 87, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 25. Born on February 16, 1937, in Winger, Minnesota, Elaine was the cherished daughter of Albin and Clara (Loiten) Fristrom and the younger sister to Marlys Ogaard.

Her upbringing in the small, close-knit Scandinavian farming communities of northwest Minnesota instilled in her a love of faith and community and inspired dreams of travel and exploration. Elaine's journey took her to Concordia College, where she graduated with a degree in elementary education. Her adventurous spirit led her to teach in the Twin Cities, an Air Force base in England, and finally, Portland, Oregon. She settled back in Minnesota after a whirlwind romance with John Palthe, which led to a three-month engagement and a joyful marriage of 41 years before John's passing in 2009. Together, Elaine and John raised three daughters, first making their home in Roseville and then, in 1985, settling in the woods on the serene shores of Lone Lake in Aitkin. In 2019, Elaine moved to the Twin Cities to be closer to her girls and their families, but always considered Aitkin and the house she and John built to be her home.

Known affectionately as "Sweets"; by her husband and "Naine" by her grandchildren, Elaine's warmth extended far beyond her immediate family. She found a second home in her First Lutheran Church community and volunteered at every opportunity, with the choir as her most cherished place to share fellowship and song.

Elaine delighted in feeding her friends and family, with the coffee pot always on, a table well set, and fresh peanut butter or chocolate chip cookies and apple bars waiting. She was thrilled to welcome boys into her family with her sons-in-law and have bigger appetites at her table. With Naine's famous "skinny" Swedish pancakes becoming a beloved tradition for her grandchildren, her kitchen was always a nurturing place of warmth and laughter, and a favorite place for the family to gather.

Elaine's legacy is one of extraordinary kindness and unwavering dedication. Regarded as one of the kindest souls many had ever encountered, she generously gave her time and energy to others. Her life, defined by her deep love for family, friends, church, and community, has left an enduring impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family is extremely grateful to Elaine's longtime friend Phyllis Helling who visited her often since her move to the cities and ensured she enjoyed life to the fullest. Whether out to lunch or shopping, they were dressed in their best, accessorized, and on the go! Lone Lake friends and neighbors also held a special place in Elaine's heart. The family is forever thankful for the care and support they had for each other over the years. Most recently, Elaine was blessed to have a wonderful care team at her Trails of Orono home. So many staff members shared how much they loved Elaine and how incredibly sweet and kind she was. The family is truly comforted to know she had a community who lovingly took care of her.

Elaine is survived by her three daughters and their families: Kari Palthe Anderson (Eric), Kirsten Schoeller (John), and Kaisha Rafferty (John), as well as seven grandchildren, Jack (Maddie), Evan, Carson, Joshua, Jayden, Avery, and Johnny, who will forever cherish her memory. She is also survived by her sister-like-cousin, Marion Kershner (Morrie).

A celebration of Elaine's life will be held on Friday, August 2nd, at First Lutheran Church in Aitkin, Minnesota. 1:00 pm: gather and visit; 2:00 pm: service; 3:00 pm: coffee and sweet treats.Memorial donations may be made to First Lutheran Church in Aitkin.

Published by Aitkin Age on Jul. 29, 2024.