LuRae (Peterson) Melaas

LuRae Melaas, 78, of McGregor, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at her home.  She was born August 8, 1947 in Cloquet to LuVerne and Edith (Eng) Peterson.  She graduated in 1965 from McGregor High School. LuRae always looked forward to reconnecting with her classmates and rarely missed a class or school reunion. She spent the majority of her life near her parents and brother in and around Fergus Falls MN where she raised her daughter, built a home, owned a heating and air conditioning business, and created Lasting Memories where she created beautiful silk floral arrangements and other crafts. In the Summer of 1995, she met her soul mate, Mike Stras. Together they owned a resort on Big Sandy Lake in McGregor MN, built a home in Underwood MN, and eventually returned to the McGregor area to own and operate the 202 Tavern.

LuRae loved visiting with old friends and making new ones. She loved her family and cherished her grandchildren, Ellen and Victor. Her pride and joy was the arrival of her great grandbaby, Willow Rae.  

LuRae is preceded in death by her parents;

LuRae is survived by her life partner, Mike Stras; daughter, Becky (Brian) Beckius; grandchildren, Ellen Beckius, Victor Beckius; great granddaughter, Willow Gunderson; brother, Clayton (Sherri) Peterson.

A Private Celebration of LuRae’s Life will be held at a later date.  To leave a message of condolence, please visit:  www.srtfuneral.com.  Arrangements are with McGregor Funeral Home and Cremation Service, McGregor.

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