Bernice "Bea" Ann Ringblom

Bernice “Bea” Ann Ringblom, the heart of our family, passed away peacefully with loving family by her side on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Bernice Ann, daughter of Otto and Ella (Gehrke) Duesterhoeft was born on March 14, 1927, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Bernice lived most of her life in St. Paul, MN and was a 1945 graduate of Humboldt High School. She attended Rasmussen Business School to study accounting. Bernice married Kenneth Lowe in 1950, he later died in 1971. She worked at 3M Company for 32 ½ years in accounting. Attending her 40th high school reunion, she reconnected with classmate, Donald Ringblom. They were the answer to each other’s prayers. Bernice and Don married on April 18, 1987. They spent many wonderful years wintering in Harlingen, Texas. In 1999, Bernice and Don moved to Cottage Grove, MN. Norris Square Community became their last home in October, 2018. Don passed away in May, 2019.

Bernice loved Jesus, her family and friends. Aunt Bernie was beautiful and classy; the foundation of our family whose unconditional love and wisdom inspired us to be our best. She lived by faith, grace and dignity, always a pillar of strength. Kind, generous and forgiving, Aunt Bernie led by example encouraging others along the way. Throughout her life, she was a selfless and supportive caregiver to many. Bernice was an extraordinary cook and loved to host parties! She loved playing cards and games. Her Bunco parties with family are legendary, as well as her famous banana fruit slushies. She relished the opportunity to travel and experience new adventures. Bernice maintained lifelong friendships along the many paths her life took.

Bernice is survived by her niece, Diane (Bruce) Johnson; nephews, Terry (Karen) Merkle, David (Lois) Duesterhoeft and Bill Duesterhoeft; 12 great nieces & nephews, 17 great, great nieces & nephews and 1 more due in July. She is also survived by Don’s son, Donald Jr. (Kathy) Ringblom; daughter, Shirley Peterson; 5 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild. As well as numerous other family members and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Otto & Ella; her husbands, Kenneth Lowe and Donald Ringblom; siblings, Gladys (Calvin) Merkle, Lyle (Donnis) Duesterhoeft, and Daryl Duesterhoeft; nephew, Steven Duesterhoeft; many other family members and friends.

Though her time with us has ended here on earth, we celebrate her extraordinary life and enduring legacy. Aunt Bernie will live forever in our hearts and memories. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to St. Croix Hospice, especially Melinda and Sarah, for their compassionate care and support during our aunt’s final days. We also extend our appreciation for the care and friendships from the Norris Square Community.

Funeral Service 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM, Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at All Saints Lutheran Church, 8100 Belden Blvd., Cottage Grove, Minnesota 55016. Private interment at Union Cemetery, Maplewood, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to All Saints Lutheran Church.

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