Reverend Eilertsen Obituary Biography Eilertsen, Rev. Edwin J. Reverend Edwin John Eilertsen, 90, went home to God on Saturday, May 16, 2015, sur- rounded by his loving family. He shared his passionate, continuously evolving faith in the "living church" with countless people in his parishes and throughout the wider community in a life of devoted service to all he touched. Born on March 15, 1925, in Brooklyn, New York, he graduated from the University of Minnesota with a B.A, earned a Masters of Divinity from Berkley Seminary at Yale and an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Seabury Western Seminary at Northwestern University in special recognition for his work in pastoral care. He was ordained into the Episcopal ministry by the Diocese of Minnesota in 1952. His lifetime was marked by his devotion to family, seeking, learning and helping others. His ministry was shared and fully supported by his adoring wife of 65 years, Judith Stetson Eilertsen. Called first to serve as Rector of St. Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Minnesota, he then led as Rector of St. Nicholas Episcopal Church in Richfield; Director of Christian Education for the Diocese of Minnesota; Director, with Reverend Russell Ewald and Reverend Richard E. Byrd of the "Churches Action Program." He then served his longest tenure as Rector of St. Martin's by the Lake Episcopal Church in Minnetonka. Following his retirement from St. Martin's by the Lake, he served next as Rector of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Boca Grande, Florida, then served as Interim Minister for many churches in the midst of change, including Plymouth Congregational Church in Minneapolis. Preceded in death by his parents, Camilla and Jack Eilertsen; his in-laws, James V. and Isetta Bennett, Edwin is survived by his wife, Judy; brother, Clarence; daughters Susan (Sam Worthing), Kathy and Betsy; grandchildren Twyla, Sarah and Nicholas. A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held at St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Mpls on Friday, May 22, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome. Facts Born: March 15, 1925 Death: May 16, 2015