Shaylene Starr-Halvorson

Shaylene Starr-Halvorson, age 59, of Ortonville, MN, passed away on July 2, 2026.

Services will be held at a later date.

Shaylene “Shay” Starr Halvorson was born on July 1, 1967, in San Francisco, CA, to Paul Starr and Beverly (Thielke) Starr. Her family moved to Ortonville in 1973, where she attended school and graduated with the Class of 1985. While in high school, Shay participated in band and track, but her favorite activity was having fun while hanging out with friends. She loved cruising Main Street, roller skating, and going to parties. Those were the days…

Shay earned her associate’s degree in business administration at Minnesota School of Business. Shay was a hard-worker and throughout her life had many different jobs. She most enjoyed her work as a CNA, home health aide, and caregiver because those positions reflected her nurturing and caring spirit.

Shay had two sons: Evan born in 1992 and Jackson born in 1995. Shay was very family oriented and loved spending time with her sons. On May 27, 2006, she married Mike Halvorson. Together, they enjoyed 16 years of marriage until Mike lost his battle with cancer in 2022. Throughout it all, Evan and Jackson were there for her, and she always expressed how grateful she was for their love and support. In 2018, Shay welcomed her grandson, E.J., into the family. Shay was a proud "Beema" as E.J. affectionately called her, and she treasured every minute spent with him. Shay loved to make people laugh. She was known for her quick wit and her ability to give out sarcastic one-liners that would keep her friends and family laughing. Shay liked to share stories and loved a good debate. She wasn't one to hold back on her beliefs and views, and this would often lead to the other person giving up or agreeing with her! She also enjoyed cooking, reading, online games, and anything Hello Kitty. She was an animal lover and devoted Prince fan, but above all, she treasured her family and friends.

Shay is survived by her sons: Evan Starr, and Jackson Zemke both of Ortonville, MN; grandson, E.J. of Ortonville, MN; brother, Shaun of Ortonville, MN; and sister, Melissa Starr of New York. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; her parents: Paul and Bev Starr; and special cousin, Kellie Thielke.

Shay will be remembered for her infectious laugh, sense of humor, and her love for others.