Aleta D. Edin, 74 year old resident of Upsala, MN, passed away Monday, July 1, 2024 at Centra Care in Long Prairie, MN. A Funeral Service was held Monday, July 8, 2024 at the Word of Life Free Lutheran Church in Upsala, MN with Rev. Brian Lunn officiating. Interment was at Gethsemane Lutheran Cemetery in Upsala, MN. Caring for Aleta and her family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls.
Aleta Dawn Edin was born April 13, 1950 in Colorado to Walter and Patricia (Chart) Kolashefsky, the third and youngest child to be welcomed home by the World War II Vet and his British war bride. Aleta grew up in Brighton, CO. The family summered in Minnesota where she developed her love of country life. Aleta graduated from Brighton High School in 1968, and moved to Minnesota where she met Walt Edin on a blind date that summer. Aleta and Walt were united in marriage a year later on June 1, 1969. They initially made their home in Hutchinson but soon moved back to Walt’s hometown of Upsala, where she resided for the remainder of her life. Aleta suffered with numerous ailments, enduring many surgeries, and faced each trial in stride. She ultimately passed with her family at her side after suffering a sudden unrelated health issue. Aleta cared for their two daughters, Heather and Heidi, and a menagerie of animals with a warm heart and gentle hands. She cherished and found value in the world around her and all things in it. Although she was born a city kid, she quickly took to farming life. She was well-spoken, writing a poem for many occasions including her annual Christmas letter. She was also not afraid to voice her opinion on topics she was passionate about in an effort to make the world a better place by going so far as running for Congress, with full endorsements of the Republican Party. Aleta was a frequent contributor to the Letters to the Editor of the local paper. She volunteered for many service organizations including the Lions Club, Upsala First Response Team, served as Chair of the Morrison County Republican Party, Central Minnesota Republican Women and held offices at Word of Life Church and Lone Eagle Auto Club.
Aleta is survived by her husband of 55 years, Walt, daughters; Heather (William) Edin of Brainerd, Heidi (Dave) Edin of Burtrum; 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; brothers; Terry Kole of Bertha, MN and Tim Kole of Northglenn, CO and one niece, Jessie.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; Walter & Patricia; mother-in-law, Violet Edin; brother-in-law, Wesley Edin; sister-in-law; Gladys Edin; son-in-law, Ric LaCoursiere; and nephew, Ryan Kole.