Elizabeth Skjolden Slen

Elizabeth Ann Skjolden Slen passed away on December 12, 2025 in Fargo, North Dakota at the age of 92.

Born November 1, 1933 in Binford, North Dakota to Nellie and William Skjolden. Elizabeth’s early years in Binford shaped a life grounded in quiet strength and meaningful connections.

Elizabeth graduated from Cooperstown, ND, valedictorian of her class in 1951. She graduated magna cum laude from Jamestown College in 1980 with a degree in social work focusing on addiction counseling.

Elizabeth found joy in simple pleasures and cherished moments. She especially enjoyed summers at Red Willow Lake and looked forward to winters spent in Destin, Florida. Her love of nature and seasonal retreats brought her lasting happiness. Above all, she valued time with her family – whether during holiday gatherings or everyday visits, these moments were among her most treasured

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents, Nellie and William Skjolden.

She is survived by Rolf Slen, her husband of 41 years. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Mary Baehr(Phil), Susan Kleingartner(Doug), Christine Claflin, her son Peter Haugen(Mary) and bonus children Kaaren Slen(Don), Heidi Walsh(Jim) and Vik Slen(Aaron). She is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Matt Erickson, Elizabeth Campbell, Reid Erickson, Sara Propeck, Eric Arness, Shane Kleingartner, Joseph Claflin, Renae Klick, Jeremy Haugen, Beret Walsh, Seamus Walsh, and 18 great-grandchildren. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Celebration of Liz’s life will be at 10:00 on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Hope Lutheran Church South in Fargo, ND.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.