July 28, 2016 at 1:07 p.m.
Alice Sjoquist
Alice Sjoquist
Alice was born in North Branch, Minnesota on February 26, 1923 to her parents Claude and Lillie. She was born into the family of God through baptism on March 30, 1923 at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Branch where she was confirmed in 1937. Alice was a lifelong resident of North Branch and attended school in a one room schoolhouse south of North Branch in Lent Twsp.
As a young teenager, Alice worked countless hours supporting the family farm by growing potatoes. Her strong dedication and commitment to family extended into neighboring family farms which later led to her working at the Leader Stores in Cambridge and North Branch. Alice learned early in life how to play the piano and organ and began playing for church services. She found great joy in sharing her passion and love for music with others and became a leader for the Luther League and helped with youth ministries in her church.
Alice met her beloved husband, Maurice Sjoquist, at the Spring Lake Church where she was the organist. Belovedly, they were married on May 21, 1955 and celebrated nearly 48 years of marriage. Together they created a loving home for themselves and their surviving three children; Brian, Russ and Mary.
Alice's love and caring extended into the workforce in which she worked as a telephone operator for Northwestern Bell for many years. Alice's passions were many, her greatest was baking. In Alice's lifetime, she created countless celebratory cakes and baked goods enriching the lives of many. In the 1970's and early 80's, Alice's passion extended into adult education cake decorating classes, in which she graciously accepted several awards for her participation in the education program.
Alice was a very active member in the Spring Lake Lutheran Church. She proudly contributed her time as the choir director and played piano and the organ for special events. She was the leader of the LCW for many years and was instrumental in starting and growing the church's annual Krupp Kakar Supper. The Star Tribune came to her house to interview her about this event and unique Swedish dish. As a result of the interview, so many people attended that they had to ration the beloved Krupp so that everyone would get a taste. Alice was the co-chairperson for the church's 100th anniversary committee and created an amazing cake for the celebration.
For all who knew Alice, Alice's love for music included teaching piano and organ. She taught many and her career extended over 50 years! In memory, her piano recitals were an event that filled the church with parents who came to listen to the eager beginners up to her most advanced students. She was so proud of each one and their accomplishments. She continued to play the piano up until the last few years of her life.
In addition to music, Alice shared many talents with her children. Her love for 4 H extended into helping her children achieve numerous championship ribbons at the County and State Fair level for gardening and clothing design. She also received grand champion awards for her own entries.
Alice was also a resourceful woman and taught her children early in life the value of a dollar. Every year she helped her children sell sweet corn and pumpkins at the roadside stand to help with college educations. Alice and Maurice were committed parents and supported their children's dreams and ambitions.
Alice will be remembered by many. She relished in entertaining her family and friends with fantastic dinners and warm conversation. Her family was large, and her friends many. Alice was a generous spirit, she extended her warmth and personality to others effortlessly and was received by all.
Alice gave her children the support and life experiences that have helped them succeed in life by receiving a good education.
The family extends their gratitude and thanks to the nursing and care team at Mount Olivet Careview and to the Health Partners Nurse Practitioner, Physician and Hospice Team for their care of Alice's physical and spiritual needs.
Alice is survived by children Brian (Pam) Sjoquist, Russ Sjoquist, and Mary (Don) Shipp; grandson David Shipp; brothers Clarence (Carol) Anderson and George (Donna) Anderson; sister-in-law Ruby Stronsky; many nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by husband Maurice, parents Claude and Lillie Anderson and sister, Elaine Swenson.
Funeral Service 11 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016 at Spring Lake Lutheran Church, North Branch with Rev. Mark Gruner officiating. Music was provided by Mary Shipp, Kristy Anderson and Jon Ekstrom. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, at church on Thursday. Interment Spring Lake Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch. Condolences maybe left at www.grandstrandfh.com
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