Obituary of Jean Marie Idstrom

Jean Idstrom died at Bethesda Hospital surrounded by family after a two-month fight of her life against a devastating bone infection in her spine. Born in Fairmont, MN, Jean graduated from Granada High School in 1961 and Mankato State College in 1964. She worked as a social editor for the Mankato Free Press directly after college and taught English literature and journalism at Columbia Heights High School for 34 years, where she also managed the school newspaper, journal and yearbook. She enjoyed creative writing, earning a Master’s degree from Hamline in 1986. Jean loved spending time outside in her garden planting flowers, growing tomatoes, and feeding the birds; traveling the world; antiquing; eating out at restaurants, though never fast food; lavishing books and other goodies on her grandchildren; riding horses; and issuing her own commentary on current political events. She passes on a family legacy of a strong work ethic, usefulness, a conviction that education improves lives, and a desire to help others. Jean is preceded in death by her father, Herbert Fenrich; mother, Christine (Christensen) Fenrich; and brother, Gary Fenrich. She is survived by her daughter, Devon (Idstrom) Pohlman; son-in-law, David Pohlman; grandson, Ian Pohlman (9); and granddaughter, Mia Pohlman (6); and chosen grandchildren, Sophia and Quinn Thomson (ages 12 and 9). We invite you to celebrate Jean’s legacy on May 13, 2017 at 2pm outside at the Deer Picnic Area at the Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, just south of the play area (12400 James Deane Pkwy, follow signs to the play area and swim pond). Dress is casual; wear red (Jean’s favorite color) if you like but, please, no black. Ice cream, fruit, and other treats will be served. Kids are encouraged to enjoy the playground after the program. Donations can be made to a memorial scholarship in Jean’s name to benefit a student where she taught.