Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at the church.

Laurel Jo Stieha was born September 13, 1954 in Aberdeen, SD to Donald J. and Gladys Ann (Kasperson) Stieha. She grew up on a farm outside of Britton, SD and graduated from Britton High School in 1972. On January 13, 1973 Laurie married Steven Klefstad. They built their life together in Forman, ND and were blessed with three children, Michael, Meagan, and Jeffrey; and two grandchildren, Hannah, and Lyla. She loved nothing more than being a mom and grandmother and was very proud of her children and grandchildren.

Laurie was a genuinely kind and selfless woman, and that was rooted in her deep, strong faith. She measured her wealth in time spent with family and the simple pleasures of life, which she learned from her father. Her idea of gratitude were acts of faith and service. She was a caregiver to all and truly loved doing the little things for those she loved, because to them they felt like big things: making monster cookies, knoephla soup, or any of the kid’s favorites when she knew they were coming home. She was constantly preparing things for everyone and that truly brought her so much happiness. Laurie loved having her family all together – whether that was time at home, out at the lake, or going on their yearly family trip in the winter. Those memories are ones that will be cherished forever.

Laurie worked at the bank in Forman for over 40 years, and was involved throughout the community, the church, and many organizations. She was one of the first to arrive and one of the last to leave. She was a woman of few words, but the love through her acts and deeds spoke volumes.

When she had free time, she was often found playing card games like hand and foot, or pinochle. Every morning Steve would print her off her daily New York Times crosswords to do, which she would finish by the evening. She also loved playing games, especially dominoes, scrabble, and doing puzzles. Each evening, she watched Jeopardy, which she often knew most of the answers.

Laurie always admired God’s creation and loved being outside. Her favorites were working in her garden with her flowers or enjoying a sunset at the lake. No matter the situation, Laurie always tried to see the beauty in the moment. She will be dearly missed by all of those blessed to love her.

Laurie passed away Thursday, July 30, 2026 at their lake house, surrounded by her loved ones, at the age of 71.

Laurie is survived by her husband, Steve Klefstad of Forman, ND; her son, Michael (Lacy) Klefstad of Stillwater, MN and their children, Hannah Kelly and Lyla Jo; her daughter, Meagan (Brandon Lee) Klefstad of Woodbury, MN; her son, Jeffrey (Ryan Moeslein) Klefstad of Pittsburgh, PA; Laurie’s siblings, Becke Hicks of Lake City, SD; John (Vicki) Stieha of Boise, ID; and Todd (Patty) Stieha of Britton, SD; sister-in-law, LeeAnn Stieha of Fargo, ND; sister-in-law, Janell (Steve) McLaen of Forman, ND; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Preceding Laurie in death were her parents, Donald and Gladys; her in-laws, Harlan and Lyla Klefstad; her sister, Dawn Skog; her brother, Donald “Bud” Stieha; and sister- in- law, Wendy Kotchian. Condolences may be directed to the family in care of Steve Klefstad – P.O. Box 311 – Forman, ND 58032.

A full obituary and online guestbook are available at www.olsonfuneralchapel.com