Kathyrn Randie Pederson Sirjord passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 17, 2023.

She was born on November 24, 1937 to loving Godly parents Peder and Alvira Pederson. Her childhood was indelibly marked by her parent's faith filled lives and love of music.

Kathy was big sister to Adley who she thought came mail order from the Sears catalog—since just about everything did.

Kathy enjoyed school and had the distinct privilege of having her mother as her teacher in the country day school. She was afforded the privilege of attending the boarding school, Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in ninth and tenth grade. In those days, only letters, no phone calls, added to her loneliness and she returned home and graduated from McIntosh High School in 1955. She then attended Interstate Business College in Fargo and worked for Northwestern Bell.

She married John Sirjord in 1957 and found deep joy in becoming a mother to Randi and then Jerome while living in Winger, Minnesota. As John’s career progressed, they moved to Moorhead then added Cynthia to their family after moving to Okabena, Minnesota. They then happily accepted an offer to move to Beltrami, Minnesota back near their roots which allowed them to be close to extended family and numerous cousins. Family was important to Kathy. Kathy remained lifelong friends with John’s four sisters and also her brother’s wife. She was a beloved aunt to her nieces and nephews.

In 1977, they moved to Amery, Wisconsin. Kathy made many enduring friendships; attending Bible studies, quilting, Lutefisk suppers, Sons of Norway, and devotedly caring for her mother. John and Kathy spent many weekends camping. She especially enjoyed seeing her customers as an Avon representative. Her diligence earned her many years of President’s Club recognition. Her home was a place of order, hospitality and comfort. She made many wonderful meals, desserts, and especially lefse!

The most special blessings to Kathy were her five grandchildren; Renata Olson, John, Rachael and Eric Sirjord and Joey Thomas. She was a devoted grandmother and delighted in all the activities and events of their lives. And she treasured the times they camped together. She and John would sing Happy Birthday on the phone if they weren’t there in person.

Kathy loved to travel, she and John had many trips together. Her favorite trips were Norway and Israel to which she fondly referred as her two homelands. After John’s retirement Kathy enjoyed serving with Latin American Lutheran Mission in Texas during the winters.

After Kathy was widowed, she moved to Evergreen apartments and made many more friends, including her special friend Arland Bebensee. Kathy had the privilege and joy of becoming a great grandmother and since 2017 she has met all nine of her great grandchildren, another is due this spring.

Kathy was beloved by all who knew her. She leaves a spiritual heritage of faithfulness and deep devotion. Her heartfelt listening, abiding friendship, and endearing smile will be greatly missed.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Peder and Alvira Pederson, brother Adley, and her beloved husband John.

A Memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Monday, October 23, at the Apple River Community Church 942-US Hwy 8, Amery, Wisconsin. Visitation will be one-hour prior at the church starting at 10:00 am. Lunch will be provided after the service.

Memorials preferred to Apple River Community Church.

Last Update: Oct 20, 2023 8:09 am CDT