Shelly Lynn Engfer-Triebenbach

Shelly Lynn Engfer-Triebenbach, 52, of Osakis passed away on Friday, April 18, 2025. Born on June 15, 1972, in Alexandria to the late Allen and Lyla (Tonn) Engfer, she was welcomed home by her brother Rick in rural Osakis. She was baptized and confirmed at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Shelly graduated from Osakis High School in 1990, and went on to St. Cloud University, earning a degree in K-12 Vocal/Classroom Music in 1996. She later earned her masters in Teaching and Learning in 2002, and K-12 Administration License in 2004 from St. Mary’s University. During her career, Shelly taught in K-12 music classrooms in St. Cloud, Elk River, Long Prairie, Parkers Prairie, Bertha Hewitt, and Osakis Schools, she also coached basketball, tennis, and golf. Shelly was well loved by her students and affectionately called “ET” in honor of her grandmother, Elva Tonn, whom she adored.

She married Scott Triebenbach on June 8, 2002, at the American Lutheran Church in Long Prairie, MN and they were blessed with 2 wonderful children, Kadyn and Chase. The family went on many trips and kept busy with activities. More than anything, Shelly loved her children. She worked hard to never miss a performance, game, or match

She was an active community member, involved in the Osakis Women’s Association, Osakis VFW Auxiliary, and served on the Osakis Country Club board. In 2008, she and her mother started the Greater Minnesota Children’s Choir in Osakis. She actively participated in church activities, councils, and committees for as long as she was able.

Shelly was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in May of 2013, just before her 41st birthday and fought with strength and determination for nearly 12 years. Throughout her journey, she remained positive and transformed her passion for education into advocacy – mentoring, educating, and supporting others affected by lung cancer. Shelly touched countless lives, first with music, and later as a dedicated lung cancer advocate.

Shelly is survived by her loving husband of almost 23 years, Scott Triebenbach; children, Kadyn and Chase Triebenbach; brother, Rick Engfer; parents-in-law, Roger and Catherine; sisters-in-law, Sandy Wilson and SuAnne Triebenbach; brother-in-law, Stan (Alison) Triebenbach; niece, Elizabeth Wilson; nephew, Blake Engfer; as well as many friends. In addition to her parents, Shelly is preceded in death by many aunts and uncles.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 4-7 PM at Osakis Lutheran Church in Osakis, Minnesota.

A Celebration of Shelly's life will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11 AM at Osakis Lutheran Church in Osakis, Minnesota.

Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Osakis.