Sheila Mae Rakness

Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

Sheila Mae Rakness, 62, Lake Havasu City, AZ, formerly of Minot, died Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in her home under the care of hospice for five months after a courageous three year battle with brain cancer.

Sheila was born August 13, 1963 in Miller, SD to Curtis and Monica (Gilbertson) Olson. She grew up in Little Falls, MN attended First Baptist Church until moving with her family to Minot in 1978. She attended Minot Public School.

She was once married to Wesley Hoff. This union began in March of 1983, and was blessed with a daughter, DesiRee. They lived in Minot.

Sheila married Dennis Hauf. They made their home on his parent’s farm near Max, ND. She enjoyed the freedom of country living, finding joy in raising farm animals, especially horses. Sheila enjoyed working with him at the livestock sales ring from time to time during their time and all duties expected of a farm wife. Sheila also worked in the food industry as a manager at Sports World in Minot. Following Dennis’ unexpected passing from a seizure, she struggled to find her place in this world as she deeply mourned his passing.

Following her marriage to Jerry Rakness, Sheila moved to Minneapolis, where she found her niche in this life as a caregiver, providing support, friendship and a smile. She supported her friend Kathy Bobick followed by Earl Kadechka. She poured her heart and soul into their care, managing daily tasks and appointments. She also shared her caregiving gifts through her work at Trinity Homes in Minot.

Sheila moved with Earl and his son Ray to a home in Lake Havasu, AZ to soak up the sunshine away from snow and ice. They loved to sit by the big picture window and watch the birds they fed, with a special joy reserved for the hummingbirds that always seemed to brighten Sheila’s day. She remained steadfast in her calling as his trusted caretaker, exploring activities for seniors and truly supporting his care each day until his passing in 2023.

Sheila continued her companionship with Ray, and they began exploring the country in their retirement until her health failed and a brain cancer diagnosis was received. She battled this painful disease courageously remaining forever loyal and kind. Sheila was a blessing to all who shared in her life.

Sheila is survived by her daughter DesiRee (Travis) Kremar, Clarksville, TN; mother Monica (Clint Wolf) Loween, Minot; sister Shellie (Chuck) Keplar, Lockhart, TX; niece Mikey Ann along with numerous great nieces and nephews and companion Ray Kadechka and his entire family, Lake Havasu, AZ.

Sheila was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis, father Curtis Olson and aunt Geraldine Gilbertson Pett.

A Memorial Gathering is scheduled for February 26, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church, 1615 2nd St. SE, Minot, ND 58701

Interment: Rose Hill Cemetery, rural Kenmare, ND later in 2026

Memorials are preferred.

Memories and condolences can be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com

Published by The Minot Daily News, February 23, 2026.