Age 87

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the peaceful passing of Jean Kenzie who left us on October 12, 2025 in her shared home surrounded by her loving family. She was a resident of Bloomington Mn formerly a long-time resident in Richfield. She was born on May 6, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio.

She was the loving daughter of Stanley and Bernice (Pierce) Oliphant.

Growing up in Lakewood, Ohio, Jean graduated from Lakewood High School in 1956. She was married in 1957 and moved to Sioux City Iowa. Where they made many friends and had their first child. She and Walt moved to Richfield Mn in 1962 right before the birth of their second child.

Jean worked as a homemaker until the children were in school. She then started working for Faber Advertising in Bloomington. She later was given a position with Honeywell. This is where she worked until her retirement.

She was a long-time member of Hope Church in Richfield.

Jean was known by many names, Jean/Mom/Grandma. Jean's presence was special in your life. She attended everything she could to show support and nurture those around her. From that special “Hello” when she picked up the phone to the hugs goodbye which warmed you. She loved everyone.

She was best known for her smile which could create a sense of warmth, kindness, and joy in others. Often described as a true gem, she made friends everywhere along the way and those friends then became a part of her life. She enjoyed playing cards and games and monthly afternoons were set aside for games with different groups of friends.

She was open to the adventure of travelling with friends and family. She was always eager to learn and explore.

She volunteered for many different services. One or two days a month were spent at the Vine and Branches Store at Hope Church. She also volunteered at the Honeywell Retiree Center until it closed. She stuffed and mailed the Hope phone link newsletter ensuring it got to the post office for timely delivery. She also helped at CES to get their newsletter ready for the mail. She was encouraging and helpful to many who simply needed a visit to their home or a ride to the store.

She also had a love for music of all kinds and she was often seen in attendance at concerts in the parks.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents Stanley and Bernice (Pierce) Oliphant, her best friend Walter Kenzie, her sister Miriam Packer and her grandson Sean Bernstrom

Jean is survived by her daughter Diane (Bob) Bernstrom, son Warren (Beatriz) Kenzie, grandchildren Lacey (Tony) Flowers, Warren (Tina) Kenzie, Christopher (Melissa) Smith, Joshua (Jennifer) Kenzie, Bobby (Niki) Bernstrom, Alicia (Ryan) Sanders and Alan Souza Kenzie. She is also survived by 20 great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on November 14 at Hope Church 7132 Portland Ave So Richfield Mn 55423. Visitation is to begin at 10 followed by a service at 11 with lunch to follow. The family has asked that Memorial Contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the charity of your choice.