Elaine T. Wilbur

Elaine (Knutson) Wilbur of Hastings, MN, passed away on November 10, 2024 from complications of Alzheimer’s. She was preceded in death by her husband, Merlin Wilbur; her son, John Fladeland; her sister, Jean Candelaria; and her parents, Harvey and Inga (Trydahl) Knutson.

She is survived by her children, Pam Rodriguez, Risha (Kevin) Murray, Harvey (Lori) Fladeland, and Melanie Wilbur; her daughter-in-law, Mrs. John (Karen) Fladeland; and 3 step daughters, Debbie Rinn, Lisa (Don) Kettelcamp, and Terri (Jim) Baudoin. She is also survived by her 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, Michael (Stephanie + 6), Joseph (Emily +1), Jack (Alyssa + 3), James, Morgan, Seamus (Christina +2), Connor (Jada + 2), Finn, Ashley (Jordan +2), Kirsten, Allie, Hannah (Cade), Sarah, Riley, Jason (Marie + 5), Tyler, Ryan, Brandon and Jennifer.

Born in Thompson, ND on June 21, 1936, Elaine moved to Red Lake Falls,MN, married John Fladeland and had 4 kids. They divorced and Elaine went to Bemidji State University, earning her BS and later a Master’s degree in education. She spent her entire teaching career in Pine Island, MN where she primarily taught 4th grade. She married Merlin Wilbur in 1972. who brought 3 children to that marriage. They had Melanie, to complete her family, giving her the big family she yearned for. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the lights of her life. She spent many birthdays, holidays, and summers entertaining them (and teaching them) with cooking, games, fishing, horseback riding, sledding, and the like. She and Merlin were avid gardeners, growing enough tomatoes to feed most everyone in Hastings. She was particularly fond of her rose garden. Together, she and Merlin traveled to Alaska, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Norway, Ireland, and England. She volunteered for many years at her church and at LeDuc mansion/museum supporting their children’s programs and caring for chickens. She remained close with her many cousins and loved to learn about her family history and her genealogy, passing on family lore and Norwegian recipes to her children and grandchildren. As a teacher of 4th grade for over 30 years, she touched the lives of many students who still remember her. Elaine’s family, friends and faith were the center of her world. She had a generous spirit and helped many throughout her life. She was well loved by everyone she touched and will be missed.

The Memorial Service, officiated by Pastor Gregory Geier, will be held at 11:30 AM, Friday November 15, 2024 at St. Philips Lutheran Church, 1401 West Fifteenth St, Hastings. Interment will be at Lakeside Cemetery, Hastings.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.