Madelyn Shelstad

Madelyn Shelstad, 94, of Pine Island, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, at her home.

Madelyn was born on April 25, 1930, in New Haven, Minnesota, to Ernest and Elizabeth (Bucher) Miller. She was baptized and confirmed at Pine Island United Methodist Church. A proud graduate of Pine Island High School in 1949, she lived a life filled with family, love, and service to her community.

In 1950, Madelyn married Harold Durst Jr. and together they raised two children, Brian (Beth) Durst and Pamela Schmitt. After Harold’s passing in 1985, she married Arland "Shelly" Shelstad in 1986.

Madelyn’s first job was at a dry cleaner as a checkout clerk. She worked as a secretary throughout her life, with her final years of employment at Target in Rochester, MN, before her retirement. She was a dedicated member of the Pine Island American Legion Auxiliary and United Methodist Church. She devoted much of her time volunteering at Pine Haven Care Center, the Pine Island Senior Center, and her beloved United Methodist Church.

Madelyn's greatest joys came from the kitchen, where she always ensured fresh cookies were available for anyone who stopped by, and Flowers and vegetables from her garden, her true passion. She was a talented crocheter, seamstress, and gardener, pouring her heart into each of her hobbies. Every grandchild got a crochet blanket that she put all her love into.

She is survived by her children, Brian (Beth) Durst and Pamela Schmitt; stepdaughters Debbie Tincher, Diane Johnson, Denette (Kyle) Braxton, Delmarie (Mike) Warburton, Dee Dee (Tim) Stahman, and Dawn Shelstad; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husbands, Harold and Arland; her brothers, Max, John, Wesley and Ted Miller; Her brother in law, Floyd Schreader, her sisters-in-laws, Delores Miller, Margaret Miller, Shirley Schreader and nine brothers- and sisters-in-law from her 2nd marriage.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday December 21st at 1:00 PM at Pine Island United Methodist Church.  Pastor Rick Ormsby will provide remarks, the message, scripture, and prayers.

Memorials can be made to United Methodist Church.