Alice Mae Belshan, age 88, of Austin, died Friday, Jan. 28, 2005 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home, Austin.

Alice was born May 20, 1916,

in Geraldine, Mont., to Frank and Mae (Sucky) Plevka. On Feb. 20, 1935, she was united in marriage to Louis Belshan Jr. in Albert Lea. He preceded her in death on Jan. 28, 2003. Alice was a farmer’s housewife.

Alice was an avid shopper always on the search looking for a bargain. She enjoyed visiting and seeing her grandchildren, she always said “kids are the best medicine.” Alice had a true love of birds and collected them, especially red cardinals. She was proud of her Czech heritage and frequented the old Brick Hall. This was where she met Louis and they loved to polka together. She often talked about the smell of saw dust on the floor and the live bands. Alice and Louis were inseparable.

She missed him so much, especially the long car rides in the country to look at how the crops were progressing and going out to eat. Louis and Alice were a true love story, they shared the same birthday and died on the same date, two years apart. We will truly miss grandma, her kisses and chocolates.

Survivors include a son, Robert Belshan and special friend Laura of Austin; a daughter,

Delores (David) Tschann of Austin; 11grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a brother.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 2, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Myrtle with Rev. Jeff Wallager officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in the Bohemian National Cemetery.

Mayer Funeral Home, Austin, is in charge of arrangements.