Therese Linnertz , age 82, of East Grand Forks, MN, passed away on April 1, 2026 at her home surrounded by her family.

Therese Mae (Asselin) Linnertz was born on October 27, 1943, in Oklee, MN, the daughter of Eugene and Eva Asselin. Therese grew up in a large family and attended school in Oklee.

On May 12, 1962, she was united in marriage to Don Linnertz. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Wade, Missy, and Rod.

In 1979, Therese and Don purchased ABC Seamless Siding in Grand Forks and owned and operated the business for many years, later working alongside their son Rod. In 2002, Therese was recognized as a trailblazer for Women Business Owners in North Dakota.

Therese was diagnosed with terminal small cell lung cancer in 2020. Doctors initially gave her 12 months to live, but with her upbeat attitude, excellent medical care, and strong faith in the Lord, she far exceeded those expectations. Even her medical team called her a miracle. Over the years of chemotherapy treatments, she formed special friendships with the doctors and nurses at the Altru Cancer Center, who became like family to her.

Therese loved being around people of all ages. She could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. She had a generous heart and found great joy in blessing others, just as she felt God had blessed her. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she taught her family the importance of serving others with love.

Therese loved quilting and shared that gift generously, giving quilts to many family members and friends over the years. She enjoyed getting her nails done by Andy and Katie at Star Nails. She loved playing bingo and going to the casino, and she was known to have a little extra "luck" there. True to her generous nature, she often shared her winnings with others.

Therese was deeply involved in her church community at St. Mary's, serving on many committees and as a member of the Catholic Daughters. She generously gave of her time and talents. Therese and Don were also leaders in Marriage Encounter and Engaged Encounter, helping couples build strong marriages and teaching the importance of faith in family life. Throughout her life, she loved surprising people with small acts of kindness that brought smiles and joy to many.

Family members who survive Therese include her three children: Rod Linnertz of East Grand Forks, MN; Melissa "Missy" (Wayne) Hiltner of Langdon, ND; and Wade (June) Linnertz of Chaska, MN, a bonus daughter, Monica Evavold and bonus son, Scotty Baldock; two grandchildren, Claire Hiltner and Scott Salter; sisters, Lois Hanson, Judy Aaknes, Beth Alderson, and Val Asselin; brothers, Ken Asselin, Cliff Asselin, Don Asselin and Roger Asselin; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She also leaves behind her beloved cat, Puddles, who brought Therese great comfort and companionship, especially after Don passed away in 2024. Puddles rarely left her side and remained a faithful little friend through many quiet moments at home.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Eugene and Eva; her sister, Rita; and her brothers, David, Gerard, Jeffrey, and Rodney Asselin.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages others to perform an act of kindness in Therese's memory or make a donation to a favorite charity. One cause especially dear to Therese's heart was St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Blessed be the memory of Therese M. Linnertz. May she rest in peace, free from pain, and may her courage and faith continue to inspire future generations.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL is 11:00AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 216 Belmont Rd, Grand Forks, ND, with VISITATION one hour prior. Inurnment at Calvary South Cemetery in Grand Forks.