Obituary of Evelyn Strom Pearson

Evelyn Strom Pearson, born to Alfer and Ellen Strom (1919), died October 8th at Sunrise in Edina. She graduated from Minnehaha Academy (1936) and Gustavus Adolphus (1942). Evelyn taught English and Social Studies in a variety of areas — rural MN, Appalachia and the inner city of Buffalo, NY. Preceded in death by her daughter Mary (2002) and her husband Robert (2004), Evelyn is survived by two daughters, Kate Halverson (Craig) of Lake City and Ruth McCutcheon (Malcolm) of Duluth and three grandchildren — Kirsten Setterlund (Seth Boffeli) Eagan, Ben Setterlund, Mpls. and Heidi Scheff (Dan), Chicago. Evelyn has two great-grandchildren, Finn and Evy Boffeli. “I’m a lucky lady,” she frequently said, appreciating their joint ministry in Seattle (’44 -’51), Cambridge MN (‘51-’56) and Willmar (‘56 -‘65). Evelyn was the first president of LCW - Lutheran Church Women, combining a 5 state missionary/bible study group into one organization in the late 50’s. She and her husband also lived in Buffalo NY, Milwaukee and Atlanta before returning to the Twin Cities to watch their grandchildren grow up in the late 70’s. With her husband Bob, Evelyn led many tours around the world. Her ultimate gift was hospitality, serving as a church librarian, singing in choirs and writing countless thank you notes on a weekly basis. “Mother was actively involved in several local ministries in suburban churches that included Fort Snelling, Mt. Olivet and Christ Presbyterian. A private family “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date. Preferred Memorials: Gustavus Adolphus College, Mt. Olivet Lutheran and Fairview Hospice.