Community Mourns Loss of Rosa Lee Manderfeld, Local Nurse

Rosa Lee Manderfeld, affectionately known as Rosie, passed away on October 16, 2025, in her hometown of Cloquet, Minnesota. She was born on February 2, 1942, to George and Senja Ahlgren, growing up in a large family as the middle child among seven siblings and a twin sister to her brother Ronnie.

Rosie spent her early years on a small farm in Cloquet, where she developed a strong work ethic and a deep connection to her community. She graduated from Cloquet High School in 1960 before pursuing a career in nursing. After completing her training, she dedicated 42 years of her life as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Cloquet Memorial Hospital, where she was known for her compassionate care.

Legacy of Family and Community Engagement

On February 16, 1963, Rosie married Jerome Manderfeld, forming a partnership that lasted for 46 years until his passing in 2009. Together, they raised two children, Elizabeth and David. Rosie was a proud mother and later embraced her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother.

Rosie was also known for her active lifestyle. An avid walker, she completed the Grandma’s Marathon in 1992, showcasing her commitment to health and fitness. Her enthusiasm for life extended beyond her family and work; she was deeply involved in various community events.

In addition to her immediate family, Rosie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Senja Ahlgren, and several siblings, including brothers George, Arnold, Ronald, Gordon, Bruce, and sister Arlene Anderson. She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth (Haidar) Fakhoury, son David (Dawn) Manderfeld, and grandchildren Jeries (Shannon) Fakhoury, Joseph Fakhoury, Logan Manderfeld (Rita Kuzko), Kiera Manderfeld, and great-grandson Micah, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Honoring a Life Well-Lived

A celebration of Rosie’s life will be organized at a later date, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to pay their respects and share memories. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to express their sympathies to contribute to the Ahlgren Education Fund through the Cloquet Education Foundation at https://www.cloquetedfundation.org or to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org/more.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Atkins-Northland Funeral Home, where the community remembers a beloved nurse, mother, and friend whose legacy will continue to inspire many.