Helen Miller

Helen Jean Morton Miller, age 89, passed away on December 23rd, 2024 in her home in rural Pelican Rapids, MN.

She was born February 12th, 1935 to Florence (Grunwald) and Walter Morton. She was the middle of 7 children. She married Joseph LeRoy Miller on December 27th, 1952. She attended MSUM and proudly earned her education degree in only 3 years, during which her husband had been deployed in Alaska. Joe and Helen bought the farm northwest of Pelican in 1960, where they lived with their children, Susan Jo and Gregory Morton.

Mrs. Miller was a beloved 1st grade teacher at Viking Elementary for 27 years. She had a wonderful laugh, which she shared often with her students, along with stories of the "witch-in-the-cupboard". Helen worked at Karen's Korner giftshop and later volunteered at Pass-It-On.

Helen self-proclaimed to be the most curious and easily amused person in the world. She enjoyed spending time at the Lake Lida cabin, playing cards with friends, Trivia at Randy's bar, and rummage sales. She loved to host large family gatherings, often with 50+ people for Christmas and Easter. Birthday breakfasts at the farm with strawberry pancakes were a mainstay. Helen enjoyed traveling with highlight trips to Germany, Belgium, and Hawaii. She loved cats, the MN Twins, and music by Elton John. Helen prided herself on being fiercely independent.

She grew up in a very witty family, which she carried with her whole life. She was proud of her German and Swedish heritage. Helen was compassionate and gave often to charity, which brought her much joy. She requested donations to be sent to Fisher House for Veterans.

Per her wishes, Helen requested no funeral. A private burial of ashes will be held at a later date at Grove Lake Cemetary.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Susan Shulstad, grandson Joe Shulstad (Jess Braton Shulstad), granddaughter Katie Nordick (Tyrell), and three great-grandchildren Kloie, Jorden, and Tyson Nordick. She is also survived by 2 sisters, Norma Worm and Delores Johnson and 1 brother, Larry Morton along with sisters-in-law Kay Miller and Bev Morton.

Helen is proceeded in death by her husband, parents, son, son-in law Danny Shulstad, and brothers Willard, Bernard, and Roland.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com