Elyse Yvonne Lawrey, 73, of Duluth, MN passed on August 12, 2026 at Essentia Health. Elyse was born in Chicago, IL the youngest of four children to Elizabeth (LeSage) and William John Lawrey on August 16, 1952.

Elyse was proud to receive her Master’s Degree in Tribal Administration from the University of MN Duluth. During her career, she worked as a secretary, legal assistant, paralegal, REALTOR, administrative assistant, and other careers where she could use her research and organizational skills. She took great pride in her most recent job with the 1854 Treaty Authority.

An accomplished writer, Elyse authored the romantic suspense short story "Writer’s Block." At the time of her passing, she was nearing the completion of her debut full-length novel, "Rescue Me." In addition to the writing itself, she loved the research; finding great fulfillment in interviewing others and documenting their unique life stories.

She was a proud member of the Grand Portage Band of the Minnesota Chippewa.

Elyse was preceded in death by her parents, William John Lawrey and Elizabeth (LeSage) Lawrey; brother, William James Lawrey; and sister, Faye Clarice Lawrey.

She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Diana Lawrey; grandson, Noah Anstett; sister, Lynda (Richard) Hnatek; as well as her nephews and nieces, Richard (Cindy) Hnatek, Jeffery Hnatek, David (Stephanie) Hnatek, Kristine Hnatek, William (Janet) Lawrey, Jr., Sandra Mencel, and Theresa (Tony) Peterson; many great-great nieces and nephews; and of course her little buddy, Charlie.

Elyse was grateful for the care she received from her cancer and cardiac team at Essentia Medical Center, particularly Dr. Eric Swanson of the pulmonary team.