Jean Marie (Fenrich) Idstrom

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Idstrom, Jean Marie (Fenrich) Age 74, of Maple Grove passed away on April 24 surrounded by family after a two-month fight against a devastating spinal infection. Born in Fairmont, MN, Jean graduated from Granada HS in 1961, Mankato State College in 1964, and earned her Master's degree in creative writing from Hamline in 1986. She taught English literature and journalism at Columbia Heights HS for 34 years, where she also managed the school newspaper, journal and yearbook. Jean loved planting flowers, growing tomatoes, and feeding birds; traveling; antiquing; eating out; lavishing books and other gifts on her grandchildren; riding horses; and issuing commentary on current political events. She passes on a family legacy of a strong work ethic, usefulness, a conviction that education improves lives, and a desire to help others. Jean is preceded in death by her father, Herbert Fenrich; mother, Christine (Christensen) Fenrich; and brother, Gary Fenrich. She is survived by her daughter, Devon (Idstrom) Pohlman; son-in-law, David Pohlman; grandson, Ian Pohlman (9); and granddaughter, Mia Pohlman (6); and chosen grandchildren, Sophia and Quinn Thomson (ages 12 and 9). We invite you to celebrate Jean's legacy on May 13, 2017 at 2pm at the Deer Picnic Area at the Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, just south of the play area. Dress is casual; wear red (Jean's favorite color) if you like, but, please, no black. Treats will be served, and kids may enjoy the playground. Donations can be made to a memorial scholarship in Jean's name to benefit a student where she taught.

Published on April 30, 2017