Sister Elizabeth Gilbertson, OSB

Sister Elizabeth Ann Gilbertson, OSB, 93, died March 1, 2018 at St. Scholastica Monastery.  She was born on September 6, 1924 to Leonard and Anna Teresa (Lutwitz) Gilbertson in Ashland, Wisconsin.  Sister was in her seventy-fifth year of Monastic Profession.

After graduating from High School in 1941, Betty Ann felt called to religious life and entered St. Scholastica Monastery on September 7, 1941.  She professed her First Vows on July 11, 1943 and made her Perpetual Monastic Profession on July 11, 1946.  She celebrated her Silver Jubilee on August 15, 1968; her Golden Jubilee on July 11, 1993; and her Diamond Jubilee on August 15, 2013.

Sister Elizabeth Ann received her B.A. in education from The College of St. Scholastica and taught elementary grades for 30 years in parochial schools in Chicago, Minneapolis, Duluth, International Falls, and Proctor.  She served as Principal in her later teaching years and Coordinator of the Materials Center for the Duluth/Proctor Catholic Schools.   Sister was a talented artist and found teaching art to children highly rewarding.  After Sister Elizabeth Ann retired from teaching school classes, she spent the next 19 years moderating adult Bible studies and 17 of those years in hospitality ministry at the Monastery Information Desk.  In her later years, she maintained a prayer ministry for Diocesan parishes and infirm Sisters.  A prayer she constantly made her own was “Bless the Lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts God has given you.” (Ps.103:2).

Sister was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Mary Catherine Hamilton, and brother Robert L.  Gilbertson.  She is survived by the Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Morning Prayer/Wake service will be held at 10 a.m. for Sister Elizabeth Ann on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, in Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel. Visitation time will follow.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. with Father William Fider presiding. Interment will be at Gethsemane cemetery. Memorials to St. Scholastica Monastery are preferred.  Arrangements are by Dougherty Funeral Home, Duluth, 218-727-3555.