Eleanore “Ellie” Darlene Gilbertson (Broden), 76, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota passed away peacefully on July 1,
2025. Born on March 17, 1949, in Fertile, Minnesota, Ellie grew up on “The Farm” surrounded by the love and energy of a large family that included nine siblings.
Ellie graduated from Fertile High School and went on to lead a vibrant and multifaceted life. She was a devoted homemaker, a skilled car salesperson, and a dedicated realtor — always bringing warmth, wit, and determination to everything she did.
Her zest for life was unmistakable. Ellie loved spontaneous road trips, visiting casinos, and traveling far and wide — from the bright lights of Las Vegas to the icy wonders of Antarctica. She found joy in crafting, quilting, and embroidering towels, always creating something beautiful with her hands and heart.
She was always on the move, relocating more times than can be counted – from Japan to Tennessee to California for the US Navy to Minnesota to Pennsylvania and finally settling down in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, surrounded by her closest family and friends.
Ellie was married to the love of her life, Richard Gilbertson, until his passing in 2005.
She is survived by her children, Lydia (John) of Brooklyn Park, Chuck (Jenna) of Rochester, Jared (Krista) of Rochester, and Jessica (Greg) of San Diego; her grandchildren, Happy, Ella, Forest, Henrik, Ethan, Klaus, Ashley (Alex), Hailey, Makenna, Noni, and Loki; and great-grandchildren, Reagan and McKinley, and many siblings, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her siblings, George, Mark, and Mary; brother in-law, Lynn; sister-in-law, Patti; her parents, Robert and Myrtle; and her parents-in-law, Harold and Ora.
In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation to Rodnes Church and Cemetery fund which held a special place in Ellie’s heart.
As Ellie once sang with a smile, “Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz…” — a line that perfectly captures her humor, charm, and unforgettable spirit.
Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Maple Bay Free Lutheran Church, Maple Bay, MN, with luncheon to follow. All who knew and loved Ellie are welcome to attend.
Visitation: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Erikson-Vik-Ganje Funeral Home, Fertile, MN.
Interment: Rodnes Lutheran Cemetery, Rural Erskine, MN.
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