It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Pauline Eidahl, who left us at the remarkable age of 99. Pauline passed away on July 30, 2026 at Brentwood Memory Care in Rice Lake, WI. She was a devoted matriarch whose legacy of kindness and love touched every life she encountered.

Pauline was born to Gittie and Carl Plain in Mikana, WI on December 8, 1926. She met and married the love of her life, Orlen, and together they shared 79 wonderful years as husband and wife. Pauline and Orlen’s devotion was celebrated every anniversary without fail. As they reunite, they will joyfully celebrate their 80th wedding anniversary together in glory. Her unwavering compassion, gentle spirit, and boundless affection made her a cherished figure and a precious presence in the lives of her family.

Everyone who met her was drawn to her warmth, but it was the babies who adored her most of all. Whether cradling a newborn or soothing a toddler, she brought comfort and joy to the youngest members of our family, nurturing them with patience and tenderness. Throughout her long and extraordinary life, she embodied the values of generosity, humility, and unconditional love. She created a home filled with laughter, support, and acceptance—a place where everyone felt safe and cared for. Her wisdom and guidance shaped generations, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Pauline is survived by, four children: Linda (Jerry) Larson of Cameron, WI; Carol (Philip) Backstrom of Maddock, ND; Sue Eidahl of Rice Lake, WI; and Scott (Steve Buttke) Eidahl of Cadott, WI; daughter-in-law Barb Eidahl of Eau Claire, WI; grandchildren: Chad O’Brien, Jason (Pamela) Larson, Joshua (Jasmine) Backstrom, Caleb (Kaitlyn) Backstrom, Jordan (Heidi) Backstrom, Amy (Dan Groat) Eidahl, Anna (Kyle) Bauer, and Aaron Eidahl; 15 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and one sister-in-law, Carol Eidahl.

She is preceded in death by her husband Orlen; parents;brother Carl Plain Jr.; son Terry; and granddaughter Tanya O’Brien; brother-in-law Raymond (Joyce) Eidahl.

We want to thank Vista Prairie at Brentwood Assisted Living and Memory Care for their compassionate care and support throughout Pauline’s final years. The services of St. Croix Hospice guided her last days with dignity and comfort. Their kindness and dedication brought comfort to both her and our family, and we are deeply grateful for the loving environment they provided. We will remember her for her gentle smile, her loving embrace, and the way she made every person feel valued. Her memory is a blessing and her influence everlasting. She leaves behind a family grateful for her presence and forever changed by her love.

A celebration of her life will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, August 10, 2026 at Bethany Lutheran Church, Rev. Sue Eidahl and Rev. Kellie Heath officiating, with visitation one hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Bethany Lutheran. Rest in peace, Pauline. You will be missed, but your spirit will remain with us always.

Last Update: Aug 03, 2026 9:23 am CDT