Harold SHEFF Obituary (2021) – St. Paul, MN

Age 74, from St. Paul Died May 26, 2021 of complications related to heart surgery. Sister Margit Alderman and parents Harry and Gunnvor (Falk) Sheff preceded the death. Survived by loving wife of 52 years Virginia (Struck) Sheff; devoted sons Harry (Mira) Sheff and Morgan (Amy) Sheff; Grandchildren Nora, Reidun, Sam and Harry Jr .; and lots of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Harold graduated from Spring Lake Park High School in 1964, where his father Harry was principal. He began his legal career in 1973 as the assistant district attorney for Anoka County before moving to a private practice with Olson, Gunn & Seran in 1980. In 1990 he joined the firm now known as Smith Gendler Shiell Sheff Ford & Maher and continued practicing property tax law until his death. Over the years he has been involved in many organizations including the Coon Creek Watershed District and the Central Center for Family Resources. He told those around him that he plans to retire soon, but we had doubts – he loved his job and enjoyed the camaraderie of his partners. He was a loving husband and father, always available and openly proud of his sons – qualities that he also bestowed on his daughters-in-law and four grandchildren. He enjoyed spending his mornings reading car magazines while drinking Diet Coke in his car in the McDonald’s parking lot. He was known for his typical grin and sharp wit. Harold was a sociable optimist, a strange mix of analytics and warmth who saw everything as a game. He valued patina in both people and objects and valued the transience and absurdity of life. He had a very successful career but always prioritized family and took his retirement in the form of frequent ski vacations and car trips. Harold was an avid skier and professional ski instructor who particularly loved the Wasatch Mountain ski areas in Utah. He was a classic car collector and an enthusiastic member of the BMW Classic Car Club of America. A celebration of life is planned for September, details will follow in this paper. Monuments preferred over Habitat for Humanity or Second Harvest Food Shelf.

Published by Pioneer Press on June 6, 2021.