Elaine Shirley Rilea

Elaine Shirley Rilea, 92, of Cloquet, MN passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Suncrest Assisted Living. She was born on July 10, 1933 to Harry and Grace (Reynolds) Larson in Carlton, MN. Married to Delwin Rilea, together they had six children.

Elaine took pride in taking care of her family and farm. She enjoyed flower gardening and was a talented seamstress, making clothing, which included wedding gowns. Her heart in ministry was for women, she even became ordained at 79 years old. Elaine will be most missed for her kind words and wisdom, spiritual direction, and the way she would always put a positive spin on things when offering advice.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Delwin; sons, Chuck Rilea, Monte Rilea, Todd Rilea; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Nick Reynolds, Shelby Reynolds, Kandin Reynolds, Michael Rilea, Abrielle Rilea; siblings, Lois “Dolly” Smith, Delbert Larson, and Linda Chambers.

Elaine will be greatly missed by her children, Gene (Jennifer) Rilea of Cloquet, Dawn Rilea of Cloquet, Glenn Rilea of Sturgeon Lake; daughters-in-law Rochelle Rilea, and Kim Rilea; many cherished grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

Visitation: 9am on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Atkins-Northland Funeral Home, 801 14th Steet, Cloquet. The funeral service will begin at 10am, a reception will follow the service and interment will take place at Sandy Lake Cemetery after. To sign the guest book and offer an online tribute, see www.AtkinsNorthlandFuneralHome.com.