BREAKING: The Cloquet community is mourning the loss of beloved resident Rosa Lee Manderfeld, who passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 83. Her death has left a profound impact on family, friends, and all who knew her.
Born on February 2, 1942, in Cloquet, Minnesota, Rosa, affectionately known as Rosie, was the middle child of seven siblings and the twin sister of brother Ronnie. She dedicated her life to serving others as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Cloquet Memorial Hospital, where she worked for an impressive 42 years.
Rosie was not only a dedicated healthcare professional but also an avid walker. Notably, she completed the Grandma’s Marathon in 1992, showcasing her passion for physical fitness and community spirit. Her love for her hometown was evident in everything she did.
In 1963, Rosie married her lifelong partner, Jerome (Jerry) Manderfeld, with whom she shared 46 years of marriage until his passing in 2009. Together, they raised two children, Elizabeth and David, who carry on her legacy.
Rosie is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Haidar) Fakhoury, son David (Dawn) Manderfeld, and her cherished grandchildren: Jeries (Shannon) Fakhoury, Joseph Fakhoury, Logan Manderfeld (Rita Kuzko), and Kiera Manderfeld. She also leaves behind a great-grandson, Micah, along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Rosie’s passing is felt deeply across the community, and she is preceded in death by her parents, George and Senja Ahlgren, and several siblings. Her family encourages those wishing to honor her memory to contribute to the Ahlgren Education Fund at cloquetedfundation.org or the American Heart Association at heart.org/more.
A celebration of Rosa Lee Manderfeld’s life will be held at a later date, allowing family and friends to gather and remember her remarkable influence and dedication to her community.
The arrangements are entrusted to Atkins-Northland Funeral Home.
