Delores "Dee" Aird

Delores “Dee” (Johnson) Aird, 93, passed away on June 21, 2021. Delores was born in Duluth in 1928 to Enoch and Millie Johnson. She graduated from Denfeld High School in 1946 and was a life-long resident of Duluth. Delores married James H. Aird in 1948.  The marriage was blessed with three children. Dee took comfort in her Lutheran faith; she was a member of the Spirit of God Lutheran Church (formerly Zion Lutheran) and the Naomi Circle. She enjoyed playing the bells at church, especially during the Christmas holiday. Delores was a homemaker and had work history at US Steel, Ensign School, Associated Loan, Aftenro and did food demos at Super One in West Duluth. She loved polka music, dancing and helping others.  She enjoyed cooking for family and friends, often directing them to “eat now!”.  She loved her little West Duluth bungalow and the color blue.  She was great at doggie daycare.  Always available to help others and with a heart full of love, kindness and compassion, Delores was a treasure to all that encountered her spirit. Delores was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Barbara Jo;   sister and brother-in-law, Betty June and Alf Olsen; twin brother, Dale E. Johnson; son-in-law Richard Harri; and her husband, James. She is survived by her daughter, Peggy Hiestand-Harri of Hermantown; her son, James (Teresa) Aird of Midway Township.  She was a fun-loving grandmother to six grandchildren, Robyn Hiestand of Washington, DC, Ryan Hiestand of Duluth, Jennifer McDonald of Proctor, Natalie Aird of Proctor, Valerie (Bill) Bronniche of Cloquet and James Aird of Midway Township.  She is survived by four great-grandchildren.  She is a beloved aunt to several cherished nieces and nephews. The service honoring Delores’ life will be held at Spirit of God Lutheran Church on Thursday June 24, 2021 with visitation at 9:30 followed by a 10:00 am service.  Pastor Nathan Sager officiating. The burial will be held at Oneota Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and will be directed to the Spinal Bifida Association or donor’s choice would be appreciated.