Elizabeth Ann 'Liz' Kahnk

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Kahnk, Elizabeth Ann "Liz" age 84 of New Brighton, passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, August 22, 2017. Shortly before passing, Liz was surrounded by many family members who were grateful for the opportunity to let Liz know how important she was to them. Liz was born April 11, 1933 in Chicago, Illinois, to William Sundell and Hazel (Mahoney) Sundell. She attended Lake Wilson High School in southwestern Minnesota, where her father served as Superintendent. After graduating from high school Liz moved to Japan, where she lived for two years while working at a U.S. Consulate. On June 28, 1958, she married Louis "Louie" Kahnk. After living briefly south Minneapolis, Liz and Louie moved to Fridley, Minnesota, where they raised their three children and lived for nearly 50 years. Family and friends were Liz's passion and delight. She enjoyed travel, reading, going to plays, visiting with neighborhood friends and spending time with her extended family up at Johnson Lake in northern Minnesota. Professionally, Liz served as the Executive Director of the National Minority Business Directory for many years, helping build minority-owned businesses by improving their visibility to large corporations. Fighting for people she considered under-served was always very important to Liz. She was a member of the Fridley Dancers and the League of Women Voters and was very active at St. William's and St. Joan of Arc parishes. For much of her life she didn't follow sports, but later came to share that interest with Louie, especially with respect to college basketball. She will be fondly remembered for her fierce commitment to social justice and equality, intelligence, loyalty, kindness and generosity of both time and spirit. Liz is survived by her husband Louie; three children and their spouses - William (Royanna) Kahnk, Shoreview, MN: Virginia (James) Beran, Pensacola, FL; Joseph (Shannon) Kahnk, Burnsville, MN; five loving grandchildren - Justine Beran, Courtney Kahnk, Jaimie Beran, Matt Kahnk and Nick Kahnk; two sisters - Kathleen (Ralph) Schiemann and Margaret (John) Nathe; and many adoring nieces and nephews. Visitors are welcome to greet the family one hour prior to an 11 AM memorial service on Wednesday, August 30 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church (4537 3rd Ave S., Minneapolis, MN). Lunch will be served after the service. Memorials preferred to St. Joan of Arc (to be used for Social Justice ministries).

Published on August 27, 2017