Sandra Eitreim

Sandra Helen Eitreim, age 80, of Fridley, formerly of Luverne, passed away January 31, 2021 of multiple health issues while in hospice at White Pine of Fridley MN.

She was born March 15, 1940 in Sinai, South Dakota. She grew up in Luverne MN where she attended and was confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church. Sandra was a proud graduate of Luverne High School class of '58, and went on to attend Nettleton College in Sioux Falls S.D.

She moved to Mankato MN where she worked many years at MRCI Sheltered workshop. She transferred to Lifeworks, where she enjoyed the opportunity to pursue her love of art. When it came to arts and crafts, Sandra had a real eye for detail. Her artistic talents ended up being enjoyed by many as she sold several of her framed drawings and beautiful stationary featuring her best work. Sandra also created fun beaded jewelry that many of us still enjoy to this day. We were always impressed with her skill of sewing tiny buttons and snaps on homemade Barbie doll and Gl-Joe outfits she lovingly created for her niece and nephews.

Sandras' deep love for travel began with a trip to Norway with her parents. She was able to continue that passion by becoming a member of the Mankato LEEP program, which afforded her the opportunity to fly/cruise to multiple destinations including Hawaii and Washington DC. She often spoke of her month-long vacations in Florida, spending quality time at her sister Barbara and brother-in-law Jim's condo.

Sandra was also considered a family historian. When all those Norwegians would gather to share stories at family reunions, she was quick to add long forgotten details like birthdates, anniversaries, and interesting anecdotes of relatives who had previously passed.

Sandra moved to Minneapolis to be closer to relatives. She always looked forward to her casino trips with her sister Barbara. She's the only person we know of who, in her words, went to the casino to "make money." On one of her trips, she hit a jackpot even before brother-in-law Jim had parked the car.

With minimal effort, she could weave a good "knock knock” joke into any conversation. Her gentle smile and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Bernice Eitreim.

She is survived by her only sister, Barbara (James) of Minneapolis; four nephews, Mark (Ann), Steven (Tara), David, Michael; One niece, Carolyn (Brendan); Five grandnephews, Michael(friend Angela), Matthew (Robyn), Scott, Ryder, Charlie; Grandniece Caitlin (Paul); Great grandnieces and nephews, Jackson, Conner, Riley, and Avery; and hervery best friend Bonnie Gosewisch of Mankato.

A family private burial will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to any of the following: Harvey G. Eitreim Dollars for Scholars, MN Disability Law Center, or Autism Speaks.

Dingmann Funeral Home, in Luverne, is in charge of arrangements.

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