Teresa Vilstrup Axt

Teresa was born on September 21, 1939, in Marble Creek, Idaho, to Anker Vilstrup and Pearl Ruth Mortensen. She was the fourth of seven children and grew up in a close-knit household that shaped her independence, resilience, and strong work ethic—traits she carried with her throughout her life.

As a young woman, Teresa married her childhood sweetheart, Melvin A. Otnes, on March 18, 1956. Growing up as neighbors, their connection was rooted long before adulthood, and even after their marriage ended in 1970, Teresa remained lifelong friends with Mel and his siblings—a testament to her loyalty and the deep bonds she formed and kept. Together, Teresa and Mel had four children, and she was a devoted and loving mother.

In 1974, Teresa married Kenneth R. Axt in Reno, Nevada. Ken was a legendary storyteller, and together they built a life filled with travel, laughter, great food, and even better company. No matter which “side of the tracks” they were on, Teresa and Ken loved entertaining, cooking, and playing endless games of pinochle—especially with their dear friends, Bill and Mel Miller. Their home was always full, their table well-fed, and their stories… occasionally embellished. Ken passed away in 2016 at the age of 88.

A successful and driven entrepreneur, Teresa built and operated businesses across several industries, including delicatessens, dress shops, and real estate. Her determination and business sense were matched only by her generosity, sharp wit, and ability to make people feel instantly at ease. She had a way of lighting up a room—and usually making everyone laugh while she did it.

Teresa held her Danish heritage close to her heart. Her father was born in Denmark, and she remained in contact with and frequently visited her Danish relatives throughout her life. That connection continues on through several generations, carrying forward the red-carpet treatment at both ends of the pond.

One of Teresa’s most meaningful moments came near the end of her life, when she had the special opportunity to say goodbye to her 97-year-old lifelong friend, Mel Miller. True to her spirit, she viewed it less as a goodbye and more as a “see you soon,” often joking about the mischief they would surely get into “upstairs.” The Lucy to her Ethel.

Teresa’s greatest accomplishment was the family she built and loved so fiercely. She was a proud grandmother to 17, a GG (great-grandmother) to 33, and most recently a “Triple G” to her first great-great-granddaughter—each generation held close and cherished.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth R. Axt; her sister, Joanne Jackson; her brothers, Peter V. Mortensen and Albert V. Mortensen; her brother Robert V. Mortensen, who passed as an infant; and her nephew, Steven Jackson, who was tragically taken from this world. In the years that followed his death, Teresa became a steadfast and determined advocate for justice, committed to keeping those responsible held accountable. Even in her final days, she was still making plans to attend yet another appeal hearing—never wavering in her resolve.

She is survived by her children, Loni Wilson, Joseph V. Otnes, Tracey Brownlee, and Bonnie Gritsch; her stepchildren, Debbie Howard, Kenneth Axt Jr., and Marla Svenson; her brothers, Antone V. Mortensen and Carmen V. Mortensen; her beloved dog, Lucy; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her most recent joy—a great-great-grandchild.

Teresa will be remembered for her strength, resilience, playful humor, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her stories will be told for years to come, her laughter echoed often, and her legacy carried forward by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Teresa’s passing was special and full of heart. She was given the rare gift of time and clarity, allowing her to tell others how deeply they were loved, offer her instructions with purpose, and say her goodbyes in her own way. Though her voice grew labored, her mind remained sharp and present to the very end. She laughed with us, shared stories as best she could, cried with us, and—true to form—comforted those around her, gently reminding us that death is simply another level of this lifetime. Even those who had gone before her seemed to meet her there, remarking how fortunate she was to leave this world so fully surrounded by love. There were hugs, tears, and more than one Danish Skål—a time-honored toast rooted in respect and shared joy—as loved ones raised a glass to a long, beautifully lived life and a woman who showed us all what a meaningful farewell can look like.

An intimate burial will be held on January 19, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Skyline Memorial Gardens, 4101 Skyline Blvd., Portland, OR 97229.

A reception celebrating Teresa’s life will follow, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Milwaukie Elks Lodge.

13121 SE McLoughlin Blvd., Oak Grove, OR 97222.

There will be an opportunity for anyone who would like to share a few words at the Elks.