Sheldon J. Forthun, 77, of Shoreview, Minn., formerly of Austin, Minn., died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013, at home in Shoreview.

Sheldon was born April 17, 1936, in Moscow, Minn., to Elmer and Ruth (Fodness) Forthun. The family then moved to Austin, where he grew up with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Sheldon was a 1955 graduate of Austin High School. In 1956, he was married to Beverly Albert. They lived in Austin where their three children were born. Sheldon and Beverly moved their family to Shakopee, Minn., in 1967, and that was their home until 1988, when they moved to Shoreview to run their business. They also had their lake home in Brainerd, Minn. Sheldon struggled with medical issues later in life, but always stayed positive and strong in his faith. He was truly an inspiration to everyone that met him.

Sheldon is survived by his sons: Jeffrey (Diane) Forthun, of Rosemount, Minn.; Joel (Barbara) Forthun, of Cottage Grove, Minn.; daughter: Brenda (Tom) Richards, of Plymouth, Minn.; seven grandchildren; sister in-law: Judy (Doug) Meany, of Eagle River, Wis.; niece, nephews, a great-niece and two great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Beverly, parents Elmer and Ruth, and his brother Paul.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, Jan. 3, at the Clasen-Jordan Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Glenn L. Monson officiating. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery. Visitation will be at the mortuary for one hour before service on Friday.