Lois M. Fjelsted, 91, of Fort Benton, MT, passed away on August 2, 2024, at Benefis Missouri River Medical Center, where she resided for the last 3 years.  This became her home; many friendships were developed with the staff.  Their care and concern were above and beyond.

Lois Mae Johnson was born on December 6, 1932, to Emil and Mary (Klaar) Johnson in Eau Claire, WI, the youngest of eight children.  She grew up on the family farm in Wheaton, Chippewa County, attended schools in Chippewa Falls, graduating in 1950.

On July 17, 1951, Lois married James J. Fjelsted in Stillwater, MN.  Shortly after, they left for Panama, where Jim was stationed in the Army.  While stationed in Panama, daughter, Debra was born in 1953.  They returned stateside in 1954.  Settling in Wisconsin, two sons were born, Michael J. in 1955 and Scott S. in 1963. In November 1968, the family moved to Fort Benton, MT.

Soon after, Lois went to work for Scheffi's Landmark Café, managing for several years.  In 1977, she started her employment with Fort Benton Schools as the head cook, retiring in 2001.  During those years, she cooked at Sunrise Bluff Estates in the summer months.

She was a remarkable cook and baker.  Most notable for her rolls, banana bread, cookies and Lefse.  Her pastimes included working crosswords, reading, and watching Murder She Wrote.  Lois was a longtime fan of the Chicago Cubs.

Lois is survived by her children: Debra (Dean) Vielleux, of Fort Benton and Scott of Great Falls, MT; grandchildren: Jared (Carley) Vielleux and their daughters, Jaelyn and Samantha; Trevor (Katie) Vielleux and their children, Kelton, Tenlea and Parker; and Alexa Fjelsted.  She is also survived by in-laws, Judith Fjelsted Ganong, Elizabeth Fjelsted Johnson, both of Eau Claire, WI, David and Diane Fjelsted of Lehigh Acres, FL, Lois Fjelstad of Miles City, MT and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James (1996); son, Michael (2015); her siblings: brother, Harvey (1979); sisters: Esther Goulet (2000), Marie Goulet (2000) Mildred (2021), Annabelle (2011), Betty (2019), and Evelyn (2015).

A graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.

Memorials in Lois' honor may be made to the donor's choice or Benefis Missouri River Medical Center Foundation, funds allocated to Long Term Care.