Obituary of Geraldine Rose Foster

Geraldine Rose (Kochevar) Foster, 81, of Ely, passed away at M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Hospital Thursday, May 27, 2021 in Minneapolis.

She was born in Duluth, Minnesota to Frank and Rose Kochevar on June 12, 1939.  She graduated from St. Jean's Baptiste Catholic High School before receiving her BA in Home Economics Education at the College of St. Scholastica and her MA in Counseling from Bemidji State University.

Geraldine moved to Ely, Minnesota where she taught Junior High Home Economics.  It was here where she met Eldon Foster, the love of her life. Geraldine and Eldon were married in 1970 and spent 45 years together. 

Geraldine’s family meant the world to her, especially her grandchildren.  She enjoyed attending their band concerts, sporting events, Boy Scout ceremonies, and graduations. She also loved the outdoors and could usually be found working in her backyard garden or taking “Rosie”, her beloved dog. for a walk around the neighborhood.

Geraldine was very active in the Ely Community including being a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, AAUW, Red Hats, Ely Garden Club, Gourmet Group, Bible Study Group, Book Club, and New Horizons. She strongly believed in education and set up the Eldon Foster Scholarship Education Award which is given to a graduating senior from Ely Memorial High School wanting to pursue a teaching degree.

Geraldine is survived by her brother Francis Kochevar of Duluth, MN; children Jacalyn (Rob) Swanson of Isanti, MN, David (Jennifer) Foster of Columbus, MN; stepchildren Douglas Foster of Rice Lake, WI, Peggy Foster of Bloomington, MN and Deanna (John) Joyer of Hood River, OR; grandchildren Shelby, Randella, Jana, Gabriel, Gideon, Alexander and Madison.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eldon, and her parents Rose and Frank.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 4, 2021 from 5-7 PM at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Ely, MN. A private, family funeral will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021. Burial service will be July 19, 2021 at 12:45 PM at Fort Snelling.