Silvana M. Hjellum

Hjellum, Silvana Mafalda age 86, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in Minneapolis on February 20, with family at her side. Silvana is preceded in death by her parents, Matteo and Amalia Cerovaz, and sister Emerica DeSalvo of Italy. She is survived by her loving son, David Hjellum (Karen Mallin), and "Grand Dog" Grover Jack of Chaska; sister Alba Jackia and nephew Terrance Ball, of Minneapolis; and sister-in-law Darlene White-Oster (Sharold Oster) of Hazen, North Dakota. Silvana was born in 1927 in the village of Mali Mlun, Croatia, on the Istrian Peninsula. As a child, she moved with her family to Trieste, Italy. Silvana was very bright, speaking multiple foreign languages. As a young woman, she worked selling military newspapers and magazines to allied soldiers after WWII, where she met and married Robert Hjellum. She moved to the United States and later settled in Minneapolis where she lived for over 60 years. Silvana trained as a nurse's aide to support her son, working at several local hospitals. She worked most of her professional career for Fairview Riverside Hospital until retirement after more than 20 years of service. She told everyone that her most important job, greatest joy, and deepest love was in her role as "mother" to her son, David. Aside from being a working single mother, she was a patron of the arts, frequently attending Minnesota Orchestra concerts, recitals, and listening/supporting Minnesota Public Radio. Silvana was a voracious reader and loved to discuss the latest book she was reading. She enjoyed traveling, shopping, exercising, dining out, and walks with friends. She always had a kind and generous heart, contributing often to many non-profit organizations, including the Humane Society of America because she loved animals. When her son and daughter-in-law moved back to Minnesota, Silvana became proud "Grandma" to their dog Grover Jack. Silvana was a beloved and loyal friend to those she lived near, taking part in the many social activities offered in her apartment complex because she enjoyed her neighbors and their companionship. Silvana was treasured by many, and will be forever loved and deeply missed by her family. Memorials preferred in Silvana's name to Southeast Seniors at www.seseniorsmpls.com. In honor of Silvana's place in our hearts, a celebration of her life is scheduled on Saturday, April 26, from 1-4 PM, at: www.Washburn-McReavy.com Southeast Chapel 612-379-2368 200 Central Ave. S.E.

Tributes

Silvana M. Hjellum

February 20, 2014

Tributes

Silvana M. Hjellum

February 20, 2014

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