Jennifer Wangsness

Jennifer Wangsness, age 42, of rural Decorah, IA passed away on Monday, November 29, 2021 at her home outside of Decorah after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 6, 2021 at Anchor of Hope Church, 203 East Main Street in Dodge Center, MN, 55927 with Rev Dale Rood and Rev. Bill Schobe presiding. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 5, 2021 at the Schluter-Balik Funeral Home, 604 South Ave in Decorah and also from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at the church in Dodge Center. The Schluter-Balik Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Jennifer Beth Wangsness was born in Decorah, IA on January 8, 1979, she moved with her parents Holly Pontier and Phillip Osborn to Texas shortly thereafter. She then met her best friend Bethanne Olsen at six months old who remains one of her best friends today. Later in 4th grade she became lifelong friends with Cristina Vudhiwat. Taking after her mother, Jenni learned the flute for many years. She was an active member of the Marching Band and Color Guard at Decatur High School. She then went on to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of North Texas. She was an avid believer in Christ and attended church regularly. Shortly after moving to Minnesota, she was set up by Jim and Barb Craw on a first date with Erik Wangsness in July 17, 2010. It was love at first sight for them both, a match made in heaven. Erik proposed at a park in Dodge Center using a geocache. Jenni and Erik married November 24, 2012 at Anchor of Hope Church. She served for 10 years on the Women’s Society Board of Directors and the last six of those as President. Many of her years were centered on children’s and youth ministries. She also worked as an Education Coordinator for SEMCAC. Anyone that knows Jenni would say she was a shining beacon for God and she always worried more about others than herself. She was an amazing mentor, teacher, friend, sister, and wife. Her heart was evidence of God’s love and grace. Jenni’s shining smile could light up any room and her kindness will never be forgotten. Jenni passed away surrounded by her husband, her close family, and her childhood best friends while hearing scriptures read by her mother’s cousin Barb Craw. Cards may be sent to Erik at: 1549 North Bear Road, Decorah, IA 52101 She is survived by her husband: Erik Wangsness. Father: Phillip (Judy) Osborn. Mother: Holly Pontier. Brother: Peter (Stephanie) Harris. Mother-in-law: Harriet Wangsness. Sister-in-law: Anne (James) Gentry. Brother-in-law: Jon (Tessia) Wangsness. Nieces and nephews: Prophet, Caroline, Isaac, Lindsey, Cael and Kaci. Jennifer was preceded in death by her father-in-law: Clayton Wangsness.