Leona McIntosh

Bellevue, Wash.

Leona Lorraine (Shelton) McIntosh passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Bellevue, Washington. She was born on August 3, 1931, in Minot, North Dakota, to Robert H. and Maude (Witte) Shelton and spent her childhood on the family farm in Tioga, North Dakota.

After graduating from Tioga High School, Leona embarked on a journey that would shape her life. She traveled by train to Seattle with a co-worker to seek employment at The Boeing Company. During this trip, she met Alice Voyce, a fellow North Dakotan who became her lifelong friend.

In 1953, Leona married John H. McIntosh, and together they built a loving home in Seattle where they raised their three children: Stephen L. (Peggy) McIntosh, Alan D. (Joan) McIntosh, and Lorraine A. (Dan Handschin) McIntosh. Leona and John shared many outdoor adventures with their children, friends, and extended family. Upon John’s retirement, the couple embraced life on the road, traveling across the United States in an RV and creating cherished memories along the way.

Leona’s family grew to include eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband John; her parents; and her siblings Mary Louise (Shelton) Blikre, Shirley (Shelton) Church, and Robert Shelton. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her cherished friend Alice Voyce, and numerous “grandpaws” and “grandclaws” (dogs and cats).

A celebration of Leona’s life will be announced at a later date.

Leona will be remembered for her strength and determination as well as her love of bringing family and friends together through shared adventures. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

Published by The Minot Daily News, March 10, 2026.