Irma Elaine Walsh's Obituary
Irma Elaine Walsh, age 99, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, October 9, 2021. She was born May 10, 1922, in Platte, South Dakota, to Melvin and Naomi Markus Iverson. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Mervin O. Iverson and James D. Iverson, her husband, Col. James D. Walsh, and their son, Ronald Walsh. She is survived by many loving extended family members and dear friends.
Elaine grew up in Platte, South Dakota, and graduated from Platte High School in 1940. She was known to be an excellent French horn player in the Platte High School band, and she also received an award for perfect attendance for all twelve years of school. After business school in Mitchell, she worked in the state capitol of Pierre as a secretary in the income tax department. Following her marriage to Col. Walsh in November of 1945 and then during his 30 years in the United States Air Force, the couple lived in many places throughout the United States, including Dayton, Ohio, and Omaha, Nebraska. In their retirement years they lived first in South Dakota and then in Arkansas.
Elaine was known throughout her life as a kind and fun-loving friend and family member. She loved studying the Bible and sharing the love of Jesus, her Savior and Lord, with all she knew. She enjoyed hosting many gatherings for family and friends, and she took a sincere interest in the lives of those around her. She liked taking long walks with her dog in the woods near their home and was known for collecting and memorizing special poems and quotations from many sources. She was also an excellent and entertaining storyteller. Elaine was involved in the Child Evangelism Fellowship ministry and SCAN (Stop Child Abuse and Neglect) for many years.
No services are planned. A private interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery in Mitchell, South Dakota.
Memorials may be made to the Butterfield Trail Village Foundation for the Health Center Fund, c/o Riki Stamps, 1923 E. Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703.
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