TERRI LYNN McLELLAN

Terri Lynn McLellan, 52, of International Falls, Mn., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in her childhood home on Mother’s Day (Sunday May 10, 2009) after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Terri was born Nov. 8, 1956 in Fort Frances, Ont. to Neva and Emil Santine. She was raised in International Falls, where she attended Falls High School (Class of 1975). She went on to complete an Associates of Arts in secretarial services at Rainy River Community College.
However, her true vocation in life began when she married Stan McLellan in April, 1983. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, playing games, travelling, and raising their boys, Rocky and Daniel.
Although Terri loved to get out, home and the family, friends, and animals that filled it was her true joy.
In her final days, Terri wrote, “The most important thing I have done in my life was to raise two wonderful children. Tried my best to be a good mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. I tried to be forgiving and help others when I could. I truly knew love.”
Those of us who were lucky enough to have called her mom, sister, auntie, or friend would agree with her summation but would notice that, like always, she has underestimated her loving presence in our lives.
We’ll miss her laughter, her joy, and her shoulder. “Forever and For Always.”
Terri was predeceased her mother, Neva Santine; father, Emil Santine; beloved husband, Stan McLellan; and her dog, Skyler.
She leaves behind her sons, Rocky (Karina) and Daniel; stepdaughter, Crystal McLellan; grandchildren, Kiana, Keisha, Summer, and Justin; mother-in-law, Sylvia McLellan; sisters, Cherie Ness (Lee) and Kelly Landry (Greg); and nieces and nephews, Margo Oveson (Jeff), Cory Mark (Jamie), Dustin Mark (Tiffany), Cody Mark, and Seth Landry.
She also is survived by her dear friends, Betty Larson, Roxanne Skogstad Ditsch, and Debbie Long, and all the kids that called her mom. And, of course, her beloved cat, Newton.
The family of Terri McLellan invite you to celebrate her loving and joyful spirit in a ceremony honoring her life on Thursday, May 14, 2009 at 10 a.m. at the Evangelical Covenant Church in International Falls.
A reception at the church will follow the service.
Terri has requested in memoriam donations, in lieu of flowers, to Northstar Hospice in the memory of her husband, mother, and father.
Condolences may be offered at www.greenlarsen.com