Illa Mae (Felton) Ommen

Illa Ommen 1940 – 2026

Illa Mae Felton was born July 18, 1940 and grew up on a farm near the Minnesota – South Dakota border.  From her parents she learned strong family values, diligence and faith.

While still a teen she met the brother of her sister’s boyfriend – a dashing Army Ranger veteran named Duane Ommen, then attending SDSU at Brookings.  Both couples went on to marry, and remained close throughout their lives.

After their own children were in school and off to a good start, Illa earned a degree in child psychology at the University of Minnesota.  She then conducted psychological testing at Washburn Center for Children in Minneapolis.

Later career opportunities took them to Pine River and International Falls.  In 1991 they chose to enjoy the rest of their lives on Leech Lake near Walker.  Together they shared the adventure of building their house, doing much of the work themselves. They were active in the community and their church for three decades.

Illa and Duane remained married for almost 67 years, until Duane’s passing one year ago.  After a period of declining health Illa passed on April 21, 2026.

Illa is preceded in death by her husband Duane, parents Eldon and Bernice Felton, and sister and brother-in-law Sylvia and Eugene Ommen.

Illa is lovingly remembered by her brother John (Gail) Felton of Hendricks MN; children Cindy (Bill) Satterness of Eden Prairie, Paul Ommen of Hopkins, and Jackie (Richard) Tappe of Breezy Point; grandchildren Kari Satterness of Hopkins, Eric (Katie) Satterness of Austin TX, Chris (Angela) Tappe of Pillager, and Alex Tappe of Brainerd; and great-grandchildren Teddy Tappe, Natalia Tappe, and Keira Satterness.

A celebration of life will be held at Hope Lutheran Church in Walker on Saturday, May 16, with visitation beginning at 10:00am and a service at 11:00.  Lunch will follow at Benson’s, a family favorite.  Memorials may be given to the Women of Hope.

Illa’s care has been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home Walker, MN. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.northernpeace.com

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