Erna Mae Arveson, 95

International Falls – Erna Mae Arveson, 95, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 23, 2026, with her loving family by her side.
Mae was born on May 1, 1931, near Ericsburg, at the home of her parents, Oswald and Ida Erna (Richter) Drechsler. She grew up in northern Minnesota, where she learned the values of faith, hard work, and devotion to family that would guide her throughout her life.
Mae attended school in International Falls and graduated from Falls Senior High School. Determined to continue her education, she attended Rainy River Community College where she earned certificates in Clerical and Secretarial Skills.
A dedicated and dependable employee, Mae spent 35 years working for F.W. Woolworth and Woolco. Following her retirement, she continued working for two years with United Health Corporation. Throughout her career, she was known for her strong work ethic, kindness, and friendly disposition.
On July 22, 1972, Mae was united in marriage to Lloyd Arveson. Together they made their home at 1318 8th Avenue in International Falls, where they built a life centered on faith, family, and community. Their marriage was blessed with many years of companionship, love, and cherished memories.
Faith was at the center of Mae’s life. She was a longtime and active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in International Falls. She found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving her church community. Her steadfast faith provided strength and guidance throughout her life and was reflected in the compassion and generosity she shared with family, friends, and all who knew her.
Mae enjoyed traveling and creating memories with loved ones. Among her favorite adventures were the 27 bus trips she participated in over the years. She also enjoyed cooking, gardening, and spending time with family. Family activities and gatherings were especially important to her, and some of her happiest moments were spent surrounded by those she loved.
Mae’s life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and kindness. Her gentle spirit, warm heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Oswald and Ida Drechsler; sisters and brothers-in-law, Hilma and Clarence Bass, Alice and William Miller, Gerda and Julius Urban, and Ellen and Frank Urban.
Mae will be sadly missed by many, including her beloved husband, Lloyd; the Cheryl Miller family; Billy (DeDe) Miller of FL; Tim (Lisa) Urban of Bemidji; Sue Mathews of International Falls; Brian (Stephanie) Mathews of International Falls; members of the Bass family; members of the Arveson family; and many other relatives and friends.
Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. with the service to celebrate Mae’s life at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church, 530 6th Street, International Falls, MN with Joe Belanger, SAM officiating. Burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.