Jennifer Wangsness, age 42, of rural Decorah, Iowa, passed away on Monday, November 29, 2021, at her home outside of Decorah after a courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 6, 2021, at Anchor of Hope Church, 203 East Main Street in Dodge Center, Minn., with Rev. Dale Rood and Rev. Bill Schobe presiding.
Visitation was from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at the Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, 604 South Ave in Decorah and also from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at the church in Dodge Center. The Schluter-Balik Funeral Home handled arrangements.
Jennifer Beth Wangsness was born in Decorah, Iowa, on January 8, 1979. She moved with her parents Holly Pontier and Phillip Osborn to Texas shortly thereafter. She then met her best friend Bethanne Olsen at six months old, who remains one of her best friends today. Later, in 4th grade, she became lifelong friends with Cristina Vudhiwat.
Taking after her mother, Jenni learned the flute for many years. She was an active member of the marching band and color guard at Decatur High School. She then went on to graduate with a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of North Texas.
She was an avid believer in Christ and attended church regularly. Shortly after moving to Minnesota, she was set up by Jim and Barb Craw on a first date with Erik Wangsness on July 17, 2010. It was love at first sight for them both, a match made in heaven. Erik proposed at a park in Dodge Center, using a geocache. Jenni and Erik married November 24, 2012, at Anchor of Hope Church.
She served for 10 years on the Women’s Society board of directors and the last six of those as president. Many of her years were centered on children’s and youth ministries. She also worked as an education coordinator for Semcac. Anyone that knows Jenni would say she was a shining beacon for God and she always worried more about others than herself. She was an amazing mentor, teacher, friend, sister, and wife. Her heart was evidence of God’s love and grace. Jenni’s shining smile could light up any room and her kindness will never be forgotten. Jenni passed away surrounded by her husband, her close family, and her childhood best friends while hearing scriptures read by her mother’s cousin Barb Craw.
Cards may be sent to Erik at 1549 North Bear Road, Decorah, Iowa 52101.
She is survived by her husband Erik Wangsness, father Phillip (Judy) Osborn, mother Holly Pontier, brother Peter (Stephanie) Harris, mother-in-law Harriet Wangsness, sister-in-law Anne (James) Gentry, brother-in-law Jon (Tessia) Wangsness, nieces and nephews Prophet, Caroline, Isaac, Lindsey, Cael and Kaci.
Jennifer was preceded in death by her father-in-law Clayton Wangsness.
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