Michelle Swenson

Michelle ‘Shelly’ Beth Swenson was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota to Jim and Juneal ‘Miller’ Gudding on March 4th, 1964. Shelly grew up in Moorhead where she attended school and graduated in 1982 from Moorhead High. Shelly went on to attend and graduate from Joseph’s School of Hair Design. Shelly had a passion for helping people and worked in many different fields including Beauty, Healthcare, Retail, and Hospitality.

Shelly was first and foremost a mother and had two children (Chris and Ashley) before marrying Robert Swenson in 1986 and had two more children (Kevin and Becky). Shelly spent the majority of her married life with Robert between their rural house in Glyndon and All Star Bowl in Moorhead, which they owned for over 20 years. Shelly and Robert divorced in 2017. Shelly spent the remainder of her years with her boyfriend Kevin Campbell until her death on October 30, 2020 after a courageous battle against COVID-19 at the young age of 56.

Shelly enjoyed spending time with her kids and grandkids. She loved animals and always had a furry companion throughout her life. She enjoyed time at the lakes, NDSU Bison and Vikings games, spending time in her garden and having a good laugh. Shelly will be remembered as a fun loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She loved fiercely, fearlessly, and gave all of herself to things she believed in.

Shelly is survived by her four children: Chris (Chrissy) Gudding, Ashley (Kyle) Heule, Kevin (Shawna) Swenson, and Becky (Erick) Paiement. Seven Grandchildren: Mauer, Austyn, Ryker, Mackenzie, Emma Lynn, Dax, and Ellie. Boyfriend: Kevin Campbell; Brother: Jeff Gudding, Sister: Lori Gerhardson; Her best friends and furry companions: Gracie Lou and Itsy; and countless friends and extended family that are thankful to have shared their journey with Shelly.

Shelly is preceded in death by her mother Juneal Miller; her father Jim Gudding and her loving furry companions Tuffy and Tucker.

Please join us for a visitation from 2-4 PM on Thursday November 5, 2020 at Wright Funeral Home (605 2nd Ave S Moorhead, MN). A celebration of life will follow from 4-5 PM but due to COVID capacity restrictions, this will be by invitation only. There will be an opportunity to live-stream the celebration for all others. You‘re encouraged to wear Bison or Vikings gear to the celebration. Out of respect to the family and local regulations, masks are required and social distancing is requested. Thank you for your understanding.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to  ‘4 Luv of Dog’ as animals always had a special place in Shelly’s heart.

https://www.4luvofdog.org/donate/