Cynthia Louise Grisim, 67, of Northfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at Mayo Clinic Methodist Campus in Rochester, MN, after a seven-year battle with cancer.
Born on September 30, 1956, in the small town of Mondovi, Wisconsin, Cindy's roots were as deep and nurturing as the family farm she grew up on. Her warmth and radiant spirit enriched the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished forever.
Cindy's personal story is woven through the fabric of the communities that were fortunate enough to have her. Following graduation from high school in her hometown, her journey brought her to Faribault, where her embodiment of Midwestern values shone brightly at Wimpey's restaurant and later at Erickson’s grocery store in Northfield. It was there she met her husband, Glen, and together they shared a love that provided the foundation for a family of strong bonds and joyful memories. United in marriage on October 16, 1976, at Sacred Heart in Mondovi, their partnership thrived on mutual devotion and respect.
Cindy's professional dedication was evident in her remarkable 35-year tenure at Carleton College, affecting the lives of countless students and colleagues before her retirement earlier this year.
In tandem with her career, Cindy and Glen operated Grisim Farms providing sweet corn for the past 43 years. Her involvement extended from training new employees to the hands-on work of harvesting and selling the corn. The business was a testament to her commitment to nurturing both the earth and human connections. Cindy's artistic talents also flourished in the whimsical painted pumpkins that became an integral part of her family's autumnal traditions. From her father-in-law's initial request, her brushstrokes graced hundreds of pumpkins each season, bringing joy to the community as she brought their imaginative requests to life in collaboration with HyVee, Nelson's Pumpkin Farm, among others.
The same hands that so tenderly cared for her family business were also the hands that cast fishing lines into the tranquil waters of Big Pine Lake at their beloved lake home in Perham, MN. An avid lover of the outdoors, Cindy's zest for life extended to the thrill of roller coasters and the magic of Disney—an enthusiasm she shared with her family on their numerous treks to Disneyworld.
Cindy's selfless nature, endless optimism, and friendly demeanor are the words that best encapsulate her essence. Her ability to uplift others and foster warmth and kindness were unparalleled. Her presence was a bright light that seemed to make the world a better, more hopeful place. Cindy will be deeply missed, but the seeds of kindness she sowed throughout her life will bloom endlessly in the hearts of those she touched.
Cindy leaves behind her husband, Glen; sons, Jesse (Alice) of Shakopee and Chad (Jessica) of Northfield; grandchildren, Jacob, Mason, Clayton, Ashlynn, and Benjamin; and siblings, Shirley (John) Smith of Eau Galle, WI, Sandy (Bernie) Weiss of Mondovi, WI, Tom Brantner (Janet Kopinski) of Mondovi, WI, Dawn (James) Ulwelling of Eau Claire, WI, and Jeff (Sue) Brantner of Prescott, WI. Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, Awald and Bernice (Hayden) Brantner, and her brothers, Gary, David, and Kevin.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 6, 2024, at the Church of St. Dominic with Father Louis Floeder officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 PM, Friday, January 5, 2024, at Bierman, Benson & Langehough Funeral Home and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Northfield.
Online condolences can be made at https://www.northfieldfuneral.com.
Arrangements are with Bierman, Benson & Langehough Funeral Home & Crematory.
