Linda Jean Stejskal, 72, a longtime Spring Valley, Minnesota, resident, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, with her family by her side. After a long and courageous journey living with COPD and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Linda is now at peace.
Linda was born on December 9, 1953, in Austin, Minnesota, to Gene and Marjorie Hillman. She grew up in Stewartville, Minnesota, and graduated from Stewartville HS in 1971. Linda spent many years working in the optical field, where she enjoyed helping others and building relationships with those around her. She was previously married to Larry Stejskal, and together they had three children: Jaimi, Jeremy and Jared.
Linda had a creative spirit and a natural eye for beauty. She had a passion for interior design and was especially talented at upcycling furniture and home décor, finding joy in transforming older pieces into something new and special. In her younger years, Linda loved live music and dancing. Throughout her life, she enjoyed cribbage tournaments, occasional trips to the casino, and spending time with family and friends.
Linda is survived by her three children: Jaimi (Mark) Hettinger of Orange, Massachusetts; Jeremy Stejskal of Racine, Minnesota; and Jared Stejskal of Grand Meadow, Minnesota. She was a proud grandmother to Lillie Stejskal, Dustin Stejskal, and Olivia Stejskal. She is also lovingly remembered by additional grandchildren and great-grandchildren who are part of her family’s legacy; her sister Cindy Rieken, and Cindy’s daughters, who held a special place in her life and by extended family members and friends who shared memories and meaningful moments with Linda throughout her life.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents Gene and Marjorie Hillman.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and caregivers at St. Marys Hospital, Mayo Clinic, Olmsted Medical Center, and Care & Rehab – Ostrander for the compassionate care they provided throughout Linda’s illness and during her final days.
A time of visitation for family and friends was held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville, Minnesota. Family and friends were welcome to join the family afterward at the family farm for food, fellowship, and a time to share memories and celebrate Linda’s life. A private family burial will take place this fall at Grandview Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Rochester, Minnesota. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray Funearl Home in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Linda are welcome at www. griffin-gray.com.
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