Elaine M. Rysted

Elaine M. Rysted, 91, a longtime Stewartville,MN resident passed away on Saturday( May 23, 2026) of natural causes  at the Stewartville Care Center where she had resided for the past 3 years.

Elaine Marie Palmby was born on January 23, 1935, in St. Charles,MN to William and Vera (Jensen) Palmby. She grew up in St. Charles where she went to school, graduating from St. Charles HS in 1953. She was employed at Mayo Clinic Rochester - St. Marys Campus as a nursing assistant for many years  Elaine was married on March 12, 1955 to Edgar Rysted. In 1963, they settled in Stewartville, where they raised their children and continued to live for many years.  Edgar was employed  as an electrician until his retirement.  Elaine was a past active member of St. Bernards Catholic Church in Stewartville and was one of it’s youth group leaders. She was also active with her kid’s scouting activities.

Elaine created a warm and welcoming home that became the heart of countless family gatherings. Her home was a place of joy and togetherness, especially during her annual Fourth of July celebrations. Elaine delighted in the parades watched from her front yard followed by bountiful buffet meals and fireworks that brought loved ones together to create lasting memories. A retired nursing assistant, Elaine devoted herself to caring for others with kindness and dedication. Beyond her professional life, she found joy in simple pleasures that brought people together. She had a passion for playing cards, bingo, and exploring the excitement of casinos. Her love for gaming extended to her computer time also— as she embraced every opportunity to engage with games that sparked her enthusiasm. Elaine was also an avid knitter who poured love into every project she created over the years. She had an eye for treasures and enjoyed both finding unique items at auctions and garage sales and hosting many garage sales at her own home as well. These activities reflected her appreciation for life's small joys and her ability to find beauty in everyday moments.

Elaine lived a full and vibrant life dedicated to her family, her career as a nursing assistant, and her many cherished hobbies. Though she is no longer with us physically, the memories she created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for family will be deeply missed.

Family was at the center of Elaine's world. She is survived by her children: LaLonnie Ginapp (Scott Cowan) of Wabasha; Tamara (Scott) Amos of Stewartville; and Charles (Sue) Rysted of Stewartville. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Monica (Joe) Pexa; Travis (Anna) Amos; Chad Amos; Steven (Grace) Rysted; Heather (Tyler) Tradup; and David Rysted; as well as her great-grandchildren: Eleanor and Walker Tradup; Haley, Ben, and Jordan Rysted; Arlo and Violet Amos; Brayden, Camden and Owen Amos; and Avery Rysted and many nieces and nephews. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband Edgar in 1999; sister - Mary Clemens; and brothers Robert Palmby, Bill Palmby, Ron Palmby, and Larry Palmby.

A time of visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday ( June 2, 2026)  from 5 to 7:00 PM at Griffin-Gray FH in Stewartville. A private family burial will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Stewartville. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray FH. Condolences and memories of Elaine are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elaine M. Rysted, please visit our floral store.