Helen Lorraine Ostlund, age 85, of Independence, MN was welcomed into Heaven by her Lord and Savior on May 16, 2021. Helen was born to Joseph and Nora Sundgaard on June 28, 1935 in Mora, MN.

She graduated from Pine City High School and moved to Mpls to work. Her adventuresome spirit led her to travel 600 miles by train to Tioga, ND where she met a handsome potato farmer whom she would marry 6 months later. She followed the love of her life to Ellendale, ND to begin a plumbing business, then to Camp Shamineau to work as maintenance staff, to Buffalo, MN to manage Woodmere Apts, and work at Walmart and finally retired in Independence, MN.

Helen LOVED people! Her favorite titles were “Greeter Helen” and “Grandma Helen” to the many people she met at Walmart over the 20 years of employment there. The many children, teens, and families became her family as she served at “Camp Shamineau” for 10 years. Her most memorable experience was a trip to China where her and Vern accompanied their daughter and son-in-law to adopt their daughter, Aliya.

Her loving husband, Vernon, of almost 65 years; her daughters, Shelrae (Marti) Fuchs, Sheryl (Gary) Amundson, Shiann (Brent) Johnson; son, Jeremy (Sarah) Ostlund; grandchildren, Amber, Arianne, Jordan, Katelyn, Chantelle, Miranda, Liam, Aliya, Averie, Tayea, and Tylo; along with 11 great-grandchildren look forward to seeing her again in Heaven one day.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Roger and wife, Betty; brother, Donald and wife, Diane; nephews, David and Douglas; niece, Lori; and granddaughter, Vienna.

A private family service will be held.

Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. 763-682-1363. www.thepetersonchapel.com.