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Jean Fredeen, age 79, died peacefully in the early hours of December first. She was preceded in death by parents Carl and Dorothy; and twin brother Dean. She is survived by her husband Tom; three sons Jon (Ingrid), Jeff (Alissa), and Jeremy (Jessica); and grandchildren Sophia, Alex, Max, Annika, Wyatt, Susie, and Tommy.
She was born in Rockford, Illinois, and attended Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she studied English and benevolently reigned as Homecoming Queen.
Soon after, she found herself on a blind date that would lead to 56 years of marriage, three children, a menagerie of pets, and seven grandchildren. She and Tom settled in White Bear Lake and spent four decades there raising dogs and cats and sons and more dogs. They built friendships, gardens, additions, traditions and memories.
In her home, every holiday was honored, and there was always an effortless transition between them: Valentine hearts turned to shamrocks and then to Easter eggs. Turkeys were replaced by reindeer. Whatever holiday it was, her family always felt she was somehow responsible for keeping the spirit alive.
Jean adored her family and doted on a wealth of grandchildren, always proud and astonished at each of their accomplishments.
And she delighted in the company of her cherished golden retrievers, with whom she would love to converse and compliment. She could cross-stitch, bake a mean pumpkin bread, and carry a tune. She did not like humidity, did not care about new technology, and did not have much use for profanity.
Tom and Jean retired Up North, living on Caribou Lake in Lutsen, where the family had spent time every summer. There she loved the fall colors, visiting with friends, and keeping an eye out for forest critters. Overall, she practiced kindness, and thought that should be enough. Her friends and family will miss her dearly.
Memorials preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association. The family will host a celebration of life in the spring of 2022.
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