Obituary for Judith "Judy" (Schindler) Christianson

Age 79 of Maple Grove.

Judith Anne Christianson; came into this world on Easter, March 24th, 1940, and left her failing body behind October 15th, 2019. Born on the Iron Range, and growing up mostly in Togo Minnesota; Judy (as we all know her as) came to Minneapolis after graduating from high school in Big Fork.

Judy successfully established herself, married, had children, and settled solidly in the northwest suburbs. Although Judy was somewhat of an introvert, she loved people. She was clever and had a sharp wit that could make you smile out of nowhere. Judy was a fabulous hostess, yet a historian at heart. If you knew Judy she knew you and she kept track of all details with amazing accuracy. That's because she had a heart with the capacity to hold space for all of her family, friends, and those cherished.

All of these things made her practically irreplaceable as the Office Manager at Berkshire Residence in Osseo. She held her job at Berkshire for over 25 years. Judy called Berkshire her second home creating connections with people that changed their lives. Judy also held a special place in her heart for the town of Osseo. She was an Osseo Lioness, volunteering at the parade and at other town events.

Many things have changed over the course of Judy's life. Loved ones have passed on before her, specifically her daughter Kari, and she had to endure many personal physical hardships as well. Judy continued forward never losing the space she held in her heart for each of her Schindler/Palmer and Christianson family members. And the joy she found through her connections with her friends and those she cherished remained until the end as well. It was her earthly body that gave up after everything it had been through.

Please remember Judy with a smile. She asked that people celebrate at the end of her earthly journey and not cry(too much). So many of you were unwaveringly treasured and forever will be held dear by Judy. So you can honor her by remembering Judy's part in your own story, letting it often bring a smile or two to you; and maybe even share with someone else why you happen to be smiling out of nowhere.

Judy was preceded in death by beloved daughter Kari; parents Melvin & Ruby; sister Jean; brother-in-law John Larson; and many Schindler/Palmer and Christianson family relatives.

Survived by daughter Dawn (Don); sister Sue Larson; brother-in-law Terry Saatela; nieces & nephews Wendy, Devon, Tom, Randy, Brenna and their families; ex-husband John Christianson; partner Clancy Nalewaya; many extended family members of the Schindler/Palmer and Christianson families and many friends.

Celebration of Life, SUNDAY, 10/20, 2-4PM, Evans-Nordby Funeral Home, 34 2^nd St. NE, Osseo.