Harriet Helen Jahnke

Harriet Helen Schuette Jahnke, born October 27, 1933, to Herman and Helen (Graupmann) Schuette, peacefully passed away on September 16, 2023. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arden, her siblings, Harvey Schuette and Helaine Litzau, and her parents, Herman and Helen Schuette.

Harriet will be deeply missed by her loving family, including her seven children: Randy (Marilynn), Russell, Diane (Kirby Miller) Jahnke-Miller, Rick, Dawn Dziuk, Robert, and Rebecca (Joseph) Nielsen. She was grandmother to Sara Rose, Korena (Mark) Bradford, Jeffrey (Nikki) Jahnke, Clayton (Keri) Miller, Susan Lutz, Lewis (Felicia) Miller, Emily Lund, Samantha Nielsen, Sophia Nielsen, and Sebastian Nielsen. Additionally, she leaves behind her sister-in-law, Carla Schuette, 14 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and her loving cousins.

Harriet married Arden Jahnke on November 5, 1949, in Glencoe, MN. Together, they moved to Northeast Minneapolis with their sons, Randy and Russell, in 1952. Their other children, Diane, Rick, Dawn, Robert, and Rebecca were all born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis. Harriet was a devoted stay-at-home mom but also pursued work outside the home throughout the years. She utilized her love of cooking in the kitchen at Northrup King and her gift of conversation as a store clerk at the local Tom Thumb. Harriet was an active volunteer for many of her children’s school events, including PTA, class parties, and sports. She was a dedicated Minnesota Vikings fan, passionately cheering them on while proudly wearing her purple.

In 1988, Harriet and Arden embarked on a new chapter, moving to Pequot Lakes, MN, where they became the proud owners and operators of the Pequot Motel. Despite their busy schedule, Harriet still found time to volunteer at her church and in the Pequot Lakes community, a commitment that eventually earned her and Arden the title of King and Queen of Beanhole Days! Harriet also worked at Kinzie Candles in their shipping department while simultaneously running the motel with Arden. They eventually retired, fulfilling their dream of moving to their lakeside paradise on Little Pelican Lake in Pequot Lakes.

While Harriet was an exceptional seamstress, it wasn't until she discovered quilting that she found her true artistic passion. She became an active member of several quilt guilds, and blessed family members with her exquisite quilts and wall hangings. These quilts stand as a testament to her enduring family legacy.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m., at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 4101 Washington St. NE, Columbia Heights. A luncheon will follow at the church, and interment will take place at Sunset Cemetery, Minneapolis.

Harriet will be dearly missed, and her legacy of love, strength, creativity, and dedication to her family and community will forever be cherished. May she rest in peace.