MAHLUM, ROSALEE(ROSE)

Age 65, of Apple Valley, died on June 13th after a courageous battle with cancer. Rose was born and raised in Black River Falls, Wisconsin and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Luther College in 1968. In the same year she married Walton Mahlum and began a 21 year career as an Air Force spouse, skillfully managing moves to many locations in the U.S. and a 3 year tour in the United Kingdom. During this time she raised three daughters, earned a BSN degree from Moorhead State, and began a successful career as a Registered Nurse. Upon Air Force retirement and a move to Apple Valley, she commenced a 16 year career at the Minneapolis VA Hospital working in the post op intensive care unit and as part of a large Shingles Prevention Study which resulted in the development of a successful vaccine. After retiring from the VA she thrived as a volunteer Parrish Nurse in her Lutheran congregation and as a board member of the Faith Community Nurse Network. She traveled extensively, including a trip to Tanzania Africa as part of a church volunteer group.

Rose is survived by her husband; daughters, Carrie (Matt) Wees, Erica, and Emilie (Tom) Breit; as well as four lovely granddaughters, Laurel, Hayley, Natalie, and Isabelle; a sister, Jill Melbye; a brother, Jon Nortman and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Rose’s funeral service will be held on Monday, June 18, at 11 AM at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Her visitation held on Sunday, June 17, 2 -5 PM, in the Henry W. Anderson Mortuary, 14850 Garrett Ave, Apple Valley and one hour prior to the service in the church. One of Rose’s last requests was that family and friends wear bright colors to these celebrations of her life. Special thanks to Allina Hospice for their loving care. Memorials may be made to the National Cancer Society, the National Parrish Nurse Association, or the charity of the donor’s choice.