Beverly Strongitharm

Beverly Jean Strongitharm, 84, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by her family. Beverly was born on March 20, 1936 in New Richland, MN to Edward and Emma Shave. She spent her childhood in Solon Springs, Wisconsin and was a graduate of Solon Springs High School. She married Dennis Strongitharm on January 26, 1957 and they spent 47 years together until his death in 2004. Despite contracting polio at age 13, Beverly led an active life volunteering and advocating for others. She served as an election judge, secretary of People with Disability for Change and the Post Polio Group, co-leader for the MS Group, president of the Young Tuesday Afternoon Club (Y-TAC) and a member of the Red Hat Club. She was active in the West Duluth American Legion and the Women’s Auxiliary, serving on the executive board.   At the 86th State Convention, she was named American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Unit Member of the Year.  She enjoyed organizing and hosting bus tours which enabled her to travel across the county. Beverly and Dennis spent his retirement making wood crafts and selling them at local craft shows and meeting new people.  After her husband’s death, she spent many years volunteering at the former St Eligius Health Center. She received the Miller-Dawn Rehabilitation Center Journey Award and was nominated for the Duluth Hall of Fame in 2007. Beverly was an active member of the Lutheran Church of Christ the King, transferring to Christ Lutheran Church in Superior upon its closure. Although she faced many challenges, Beverly was a strong, independent, and determined woman who set a good example for her children and was an inspiration to many. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband Dennis.  She is survived by her sons, John (Diane) and Kenny; her daughter, Leslie (Larry) Musolf all of Duluth; grandchildren, Sarah (Steven) Schyler, Angela, Christopher, and Nichole Musolf; great-granddaughter, Emma Strongitharm; sisters, Darlene Legore of Superior Wisconsin, and Lois Schmidt of Solon Springs, WI; many nieces and nephews. Beverly wanted to thank everyone who were always so willing to help her.  We would like thank Dr. Timothy Lamaster for going above and beyond in caring for our mother.  His kindness meant the world to her.  We would also like to express our gratitude to the wonderful caregivers of Keystone Bluffs.  Your care allowed Beverly to thrive in her final years. In consideration for the safety of friends and family with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic, private family services will be held. Burial will be at Oneota Cemetery. Arrangements by Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home.