Ann Marie (Spelhaug) Arnold died in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 16, 2026, at the age of 77. She was born on July 19, 1949, in Chatfield, Minnesota.
Ann grew up in Chatfield, the eldest of Dwaine and Helene Spelhaug’s seven children, and graduated from Chatfield High School in 1967. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from Winona State University, where she met the love of her life, Bim (Vincent Arnold). They were married on July 24, 1971, beginning a journey together that would span 54 years of marriage, three children, and five grandchildren. Together, Ann and Bim shared a passion for travel, journeying extensively around the United States with memorable excursions to Europe and South America – they even road-tripped all the way to the Arctic Circle.
Ann dedicated over 30 years to her teaching career, beginning at West Concord Elementary before moving over to Triton Elementary School. Throughout her decades in education, she earned the admiration and respect of both the students she inspired and her fellow staff.
Ann’s greatest pride and joy was her family. Her absolute favorite role in life was being Abuela/Grandma to her five grandkids: Katie, Stella, Davis, Alma and Eden. Whether it was reading a book, playing at the park, or spending time at the beach digging in the sand during the annual family vacation, she just loved spending quality time with her grandkids.
Ann is survived by her sons Alan (Lisa) and Michael (Laura), her grandchildren Katie, Stella, Davis, Alma and Eden; her siblings Jean (Dave) Haugo, Pat (Bryan) Stanek, Sue (Rick) Poinsett, Jim (Julie) Spelhaug, and Bob Spelhaug; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bim, her daughter Jessica, her parents, and her brother Don Spelhaug.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, August 29 from 5-8 p.m. at the Joy Ridge Event Center in Chatfield.
Memorials will be donated to the Dementia Society of America and Triton Elementary School.
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