Edward M. Elstad

1933 - 2025

4/28/1933 - 1/5/2025

Edward, 91, passed away peacefully and went to be with his heavenly father on the afternoon of January 5, 2025, in Elk River, Minnesota after a long and fulfilling life.

Born on April 28, 1933, he was baptized and lived in Independence, Wisconsin, until moving to Minnesota in 1962. He was the first son to Elmo M. Elstad and Maria "Mary" C. (Jelen) Elstad.

Edward was a man who found joy in the simplest of pleasures, particularly his time spent fishing in Northern Minnesota at their lake home, watching sports, especially the Green Bay Packers, and his lifelong dedication to family.

Above all, Ed exemplified kindness and warmth, always welcoming others with an open heart, and a keen sense of humor.

A proud veteran, on March 30, 1953, he joined the Army of the United States and served during the Korean War until honorably discharged on January 24, 1955. After serving his country with honor, Edward returned to Wisconsin, and eventually married his wife, Joan (Platz) in 1962.

Together they moved to Minnesota and initially settled in Brooklyn Park, where he worked for Sears-Robuck and Co. until his retirement. They spent many years of their lives in Anoka at their hobby farm where they worked hard, raised their sons, and he enjoyed long summer evenings tending to his very large garden, enjoyed hunting with his trusted German Short Haired Pointers, and raising American Quarter Horses. Over the years on the farm, they raised chickens, geese, cows, bees, and other animals. As a family they enjoyed downhill skiing, membership in 4-H, and showing horses.

In the later years after retirement Ed and Joan travelled extensively in Europe and on many cruises before settling down in Elk River.

His legacy of love and strength will carry on through his beloved sons, Jay and Bradley. He was a devoted grandfather to his wonderful grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; two sons, Jay of Elk River, MN and Bradley (Beth) of Zionsville, IN; three grandchildren, Connor, Ava, and Delaney; a sister, Andrine (Lawrence) of Bella Vista, AR; along with six nieces and nephews and several grandnieces and grandnephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father and brother (Paul).

Visitation held Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. followed by a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 PM at the Church of Saint Andrew, 566 4th St. NW, Elk River, MN.

Interment services will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN at 10:30 a.m.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dare's Funeral Home of Elk River, MN, 763-441-1212, www.daresfuneralhome.com.