Irene Gladys Halvorson was born November 20, 1915 in Highlanding Township, Pennington County, MN to the late Albert and Alma (Aleckson) Halvorson. She was baptized and confirmed at the Goodridge Lutheran Church. She grew up and attended Goodridge Elementary and Goodridge High School.

On this day July 10, 1932, 71 years ago, Irene was united in marriage to Leo Ervin Ellingson, at the Mavie parsonage by Rev. Sabo. The couple lived on the farm, where Leo farmed and was employed in road construction. Irene and Leo also had a grocery store in Goodridge for 20 years. Irene worked at the U.S. Post Office both in Goodridge and Thief River Falls for 23 years, retiring in 1975. In 1980 Irene moved to Thief River Falls.

Irene was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, the noon Lioness, BPO Does #65 and was a member of the Eastern Star for 50 years. She volunteered at the hospital and delivered Meals-On-Wheels in Thief River Falls. Irene enjoyed playing cards especially bridge, visiting with friends, traveling and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her family.

Survivors include 5 children, Diana (Lynn) Josephson of Thief River Falls, MN, Arlen (Sharon) of Sun City, AZ, Ron (Lynn) of Minden, NV, Larry of Anchorage, AK and Lana (Neal) Sandahl of Thief River Falls, MN; 9 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and her special friend, Marlene Hanson.

She is preceded in death by her husband Leo, on October 9, 1980, granddaughters, Christine Josephson and Linda Blilie; grandson, Scott Josephson; great grandson, Eric Josephson; parents, a sister, Ethel Kaushagen and 3 brothers, Hiram, Alvin and Gordon.