Jean E. Holthusen

Jean Elaine Holthusen was born on January 13, 1943, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota to Carl and Edith Holthusen. She grew up on a farm near Grygla, Minnesota and graduated from Goodridge High School in 1963. Jean spent 16 years in Golden Valley, Minnesota. While there, she attended St. Mary's University and spent much of her time working with children, especially in area elementary schools. In 1986, Jean moved to Parkview Terrace Apartments in Moorhead, Minnesota where she resided until her death.


Throughout her life Jean was very involved in ensuring the rights of handicapped people, educating both children and medical professionals on what it is like to have disabilities. She loved being with children, cruising around Moorhead in her wheelchair, and adding to her butterfly collection.


Jean is survived by seven sisters, Dian (Andy) Lopez, Alexandria, Gail (Roger) Holbeck, Marshall, MN, Linda (Tom) Vettel, Bemidji, MN, Bonnie (James) Espirito, Spokane, WA, Donna (Richard) Jones, Moorhead, Connie (Tony) Moe, Grygla, and Terri (Henry) Klassen, Roseau, MN; three brothers, Glen (Kathy) Holthusen, Bloomington, MN; Dale (Connie) Holthusen, Mt. Horeb, WI, and Roy (Teresa) Holthusen, Thief River Falls; and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.


Jean was preceded in death by her parents and a nephew, Andrew Klassen.


Jean Holthusen died at Innovis Health Center in Fargo, North Dakota on September 14, 2009 at the age of 66 years. Blessed be her memory.