Elaine Sandra "Yaya Luiten" Engen

Elaine "Yaya" Sandra Engen, 63, of Duluth, MN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Essentia Health, surrounded by love.

Elaine was truly an angel in human form - graceful, gentle, and overflowing with compassion. Her presence was a blessing to everyone who had the honor of knowing her. With a heart as expansive as the sky, Elaine lived a life rooted in love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She was not only an incredible mother and grandmother, but also a deeply loyal sister and a treasured friend. Her warmth and wisdom touched every soul she met, leaving behind a legacy of love that will never fade.

Born in Grand Rapids, MN on March 28, 1962, to John and Cecilia Luiten, Elaine grew up in a close-knit family and attended Proctor Public Schools, graduating in 1980. On March 24, 1984, she married the love of her life, Lars Engen, and together they built a life full of laughter, love, and shared dreams. Elaine dedicated over 35 years of her life to a long and fulfilling career at Wells Fargo, where she was known for her professionalism, loyalty and strong work ethic. She also continued to serve her community by working at Walmart in Hermantown for over five years, where she built lasting friendships and was cherished by both coworkers and customers alike.

Elaine's greatest joy in life was her family. She poured her heart into being a devoted mother, and her role as "Yaya" to her beloved grandchildren was one she cherished deeply. Her love was limitless, her guidance gentle, and her hugs unforgettable.

Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lars; parents; and brothers, Larry and Mark Luiten.

Elaine is survived by her children, Christine (Brandon), Samantha (EJ), and Tayler (Jesse); grandchildren, Charlotte, Ryder, Hadley, Madison, Kinsley, Kendall, and Bo; loving siblings, Linda, Karen (Jeff), Jerry, Gloria (Steve), Brenda (Duane), and Carol (Scott); lifelong friends, Kevin and Ruth Bourlard; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends, who were all blessed by her light.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Essentia Health, with special thanks to Dr. Romy and team, 10 ICU, and all the surgeons, nurses and staff who cared for Elaine with such compassion.

Visitation will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, September 22nd at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, with funeral service at 2:00 PM and reception to follow. Interment at Sunrise Memorial Park Cemetery with her husband and family.

Though Elaine has left this earth, the love she gave so freely continues to shine in every heart she touched. Heaven has gained a true angel.