Cloquet Community Mourns Loss of Longtime Nurse Rosa Manderfeld

Rosa Lee Manderfeld, a dedicated nurse and beloved member of the Cloquet, Minnesota community, passed away on October 16, 2025. She was 83 years old. Rosa, affectionately known as Rose or Rosie, was born on February 2, 1942, to George and Senja Ahlgren. As the middle child of seven siblings, she grew up on a small farm in Cloquet, where her roots in the community ran deep.

After graduating from Cloquet High School in 1960, Rosa pursued a career in nursing, graduating from nursing school and serving as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for 42 years at Cloquet Memorial Hospital. Her commitment to her patients and colleagues made her a cherished figure in the healthcare community.

Rosa’s passion for fitness was evident in her love for walking, and she proudly completed the Grandma’s Marathon in 1992. This accomplishment reflected not only her dedication to health but also her spirited nature.

On February 16, 1963, Rosa married Jerome (Jerry) Manderfeld, and the couple welcomed two children, Elizabeth and David. Their marriage spanned 46 years until Jerry’s passing in 2009. Rosa’s family was the heart of her life, and she is remembered for her unwavering love and support.

Rosa is preceded in death by her parents, George and Senja Ahlgren, and her husband Jerome Manderfeld. She also leaves behind her siblings, including brothers George, Arnold, Ronald, Gordon, Bruce Ahlgren, and sister Arlene Anderson.

She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Haidar) Fakhoury; son, David (Dawn) Manderfeld; grandchildren Jeries (Shannon) Fakhoury, Joseph Fakhoury, Logan Manderfeld (Rita Kuzko), and Kiera Manderfeld; and great-grandson Micah. Rosa is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Community Remembers Rosa’s Legacy

The Cloquet community is coming together to celebrate Rosa’s life and legacy. A memorial service is planned for a later date, allowing family and friends to honor her contributions and the joy she brought to their lives.

In lieu of flowers, sympathies may be directed to the Ahlgren Education Fund at https://www.cloquetedfundation.org or the American Heart Association at www.heart.org/more.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Atkins-Northland Funeral Home. Rosa Lee Manderfeld will be remembered not only for her professional dedication but also for her warmth, compassion, and the indelible mark she left on those who knew her.