Patricia Syneva Plooster

Patricia “Pat” Syneva Plooster, age 88, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025.

Pat was born on September 4, 1937, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Rodney and Sarah Shelman. After graduating from high school, she attended St. Cloud State University, where she completed her teaching degree in just three years, graduating in 1957. At only 20 years old, Pat began her teaching career in Marshall, Minnesota. After four years there, she joined the South St. Paul School District, where she later earned an advanced teaching certification in Special Education and went on to teach for thirty-one additional years.

Throughout her career, Pat was known for her compassion, dedication, and excellence in teaching. She had a true heart for her students and was recognized as an exceptional educator, including being named a Teacher of the Year finalist in 1992.

On April 28, 1979, Pat married the love of her life, Donald Plooster. Together they shared forty-six wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Pat and Don traveled extensively exploring Africa, New Zealand, Europe, Alaska, and many places across the United States.

Pat was outgoing, warm, and gracious—always putting others before herself. She had a gift for making friends wherever she went and cherished time spent with her Bible study group, Bunco ladies, retiree luncheons, and neighbors. A consummate hostess, Pat loved to entertain and was known for her impeccable sense of style, hospitality, and her perfectly set table.

More than anything, Pat loved her family deeply. She was a devoted wife, loving stepmother and mother-in-law, proud grandmother, and delighted great-grandmother.

Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Rodney and Sarah Shelman, and her brother, David Shelman. She is survived by her beloved husband, Don Plooster; stepchildren Doug Plooster (Amber), Michelle Jackson (Ryan), and Lisa Tourek (Jim); grandchildren Joshua Plooster (Liz), Zachary Plooster (Kristie), Ben Jackson, Jake Prososki, and Josh Prososki; great-grandson Bennett Plooster; brother Dean Shelman (Mary); nephew Jeff Shelman (Melissa); and niece Amy Wentzel (Kelly) and their children Jessica (Alvin) and Abby.

Pat’s life was defined by her faith, kindness, and devotion to others. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her joyful heart, and the many lives she touched through friendship and teaching.

A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater, Minnesota, on Saturday, November 8th. Visitation will begin at 3:00 PM, followed by a service at 4:00 PM.

Memorials are preferred to the American Cancer Society or the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.