Sondra Lizakowski

Lizakowski, Sondra Ann (nee: Mortenson)
Attention Iron Workers Local 512 – wife of Walter Lizakowski

Sondra entered into eternal rest peacefully on May 27, 2014 at the age of 72. She was preceded in death by her parents Herbert and Helen Mortenson. She is survived by her adoring and devoted husband Walter E. Lizakowski of Fridley, sons: Chad (Jo Ann) of Oakdale, MN, and Jamie (Lynn) of Zimmerman, MN, and grandchildren: Maggie, Genna Jo, and Joshua. Also survived by her siblings: Peter (Doris), Charles (Jan), Diane, and Dean.

Sondra was born on November 2, 1941 in Hallock, MN. She was the daughter of a farmer and schoolteacher who lived in Kennedy, MN. She was baptized, confirmed and married at the Red River Lutheran Church. The church she was proud to say, her grandfather helped to build. Sondra graduated in 1959 from Kennedy High School. She then went on to graduate from Mayville State Teacher's College as well as received her Dental Assistant degree from the Professional Business School in Minneapolis. She met Walt in 1961 while working as an aide in the hospital in which he was recovering from a serious injury. This year, they were looking forward to celebrating their 50th anniversary on October 16th.

Sondra assisted Dr. Hoghaug as his Orthodontist Assistant in Grand Forks until she and Walt began to start their family. When Chad arrived in June of 1966, Sondra began and cherished the life of mother, homemaker, chauffer, Boy Scout Den Mother, chief cook & laundry washer, and cheerleader for her family. They moved to the Twin Cities shortly thereafter in 1967. She rejoiced when their son, Jamie was born in 1969.
Sondra enjoyed reading, swimming, traveling, searching & testing out new recipes, as well as being with friends and family. Though she and Walt made their home base in Fridley since 1971, she always considered Kennedy and the Mortenson Farm, home. She just treasured getting together with her siblings, cousins, and friends.

Sondra and Walt were members of St. Timothy's Lutheran Church in Fridley for over 30 years, and then transitioned to North Heights Lutheran in Arden Hills almost 20 years ago. Sondra enjoyed her neighborhood Bible Studies and Bible Study Fellowship for many years. She and Walt took part in Young at Heart and have met many wonderful friends throughout the years.
Sondra was a short term Breast Cancer Survivor. She passed away due to complications from hip replacement surgery and pancreatitis. She fought a long and strong battle until the end. She will be remembered for her bright eyes, laughter, baking, gentle soul, and love of family.

Her family would like to extend their thanks to her many caregivers at the five hospitals as well as the transitional center that provided her therapies and supports through her illness. We are most especially grateful to the tender care provided by Unity Hospital and the J.A. Wedum Residential Hospice.

Celebration of Life Service at North Height Lutheran Church was held on Monday, June 2, 2014 at 10:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to service and internment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Miller Funeral Home, Fridley, MN.