Arlene Charmae Shilts passed away May 27, 2025, at Essentia Health in Duluth, MN at the age of 89 years old.

Arlene was born on May 20, 1936, in the township of White River, WI to Larry and Edith (Mattson) Santama. She attended school in Ashland, WI In May 1954, after graduation, Arlene moved to Minneapolis, MN, working for the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce and Bemis Bro. Bag Co as a secretary.

Arlene married Leo Shilts in Ashland, WI, on June 23, 1956. Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Finland, MN and started their family, welcoming two children, Daniel and Jane.

They moved to Spruce Creek cabins, near Cascade Park, in September 1962. Arlene began working for Lutsen Resort and enjoying a 26 year career.

August,1965 they moved to their current home in Lutsen, MN Arlene and Leo were married for almost 61 years until Leo’s passing in March of 2017.

Arlene will be greatly missed by: Daughter, Jane (Greg) Eide of Custer, SD; Grandchildren: Jennifer Madden of Duluth, MN; Bradly (Alexa) Shilts of Castle Rock, CO; Larry (Danielle) Eide of Rapid City, SD; Great Grandchildren: Nicholas Madden of Duluth, MN; Kinsley Shilts of Castle Rock, CO; Leland Shilts of Castle Rock, CO; Freya Eide of Rapid City, SD; Siblings: Carl (Charlotte) Santama of Wausau, WI; Phyllis (Dennis) Allar of Jordan, MN; And numerous nieces and nephews.

Arlene is preceded in death by her parents, Larry & Edith, husband Leo, son Daniel, sister Lorraine Andrews, brother Donald Santama and grandson-inlaw Rick Madden.

Honorary Pallbearers: Jennifer Madden, Bradly Shilts, Larry Eide and Nicholas Madden.

There will be a Celebration of Life June 14, 2025, at the Schroeder Town Hall from 1:00 pm – 3:00 p.m. A light lunch will be served.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Arlene Shilts to the Birch Grove Community School. Donations can be sent to: Birch Grove Community School P.O. Box 2383 Tofte, MN 55615