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In the quiet embrace of Cloquet, a flame of life flickered and danced, illuminating the world with its presence. Jean LeeAnn Ruth Graboski, known affectionately as Jeannie, has embarked on her grandest adventure yet, departing from this earthly realm on Sept. 24, 2023. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, care, defiance, and a knack for keeping life interesting. Born April 21, 1964, in the heart of Cloquet, she was a testament to the resilience and love we humans can hold.

Jeannie, a rebellious soul with a heart oozing with love, possessed a captivating duality. In her tender moments, she exuded a warmth that could melt the iciest of hearts. Yet her spirit carried a stubborn defiance, an unwavering commitment to being true to herself and what she wanted to do. She defied societal expectations, forging her own path, and embraced the beat of her own drum, some would say as a true master of mischief.

In the realm of hobbies, Jeannie found solace and joy in the simplest of pleasures. With the thrill of anticipation, she would partake in the age-old game of bingo, her laughter resonating through the halls as she daubed her way to victory. She liked watching game shows, and her favorite of all shows, "The Golden Girls," to which we say "thank you for being a friend" one last time. And in the company of friends or emotions, she would raise a bottle of Budweiser or a glass of Windsor with Diet Coke.

Jeannie's journey through life was intertwined with the lives of those she loved and those who loved her. In her wake, she leaves behind a legacy of connection and kinship. Her children, Tresta Brown (Wes), Kayleigh Johnson (David) and Janaya Torres (Trevor), stand as testaments to her unwavering love. And her grandchildren, Michael Rosa, Jerrick Brown, Bryan Brown, Cameron Brown, Audri Follett and Mason Follett, carry a piece of her spirit within them, a flame passed down through generations. Also survived by her sisters, Carol Rose, JoAnn Nikko, Char Rahkola and Dar Bottila, who, through the tapestry of sisterhood, shared laughter, tears and an unbreakable bond. Jeannie's family of nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as her best friend, Sherry Nelson, and a multitude of friends, collectively bear witness to the impact she had on countless lives.

As her spirit takes flight, Jeannie reunites with those who preceded her in death. Her parents, Dorothy and Chester Graboski, her beloved daughter, Dory Lee, and her brother, Roger Graboski, were there awaiting her arrival. And as they welcomed her with open arms, we find solace in the knowledge that she is embraced by eternal love.

The celebration of Jeannie's life will begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8 at Nelson Funeral Care in Cloquet. Within those hallowed walls, a small prayer ceremony will commence at 2 p.m., a moment of quiet reflection and spiritual connection. Following the ceremony, a luncheon will be shared, a gathering of remembrance and fellowship. A burial will take place at 3:15 p.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery in Cloquet.

In the tapestry of life, Jeannie's vibrant threads will forever be woven, creating a masterpiece of love, strength and resilience. Though she has departed from our mortal realm, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by her presence. Let us remember her with fondness, celebrating the indomitable spirit that was Jeannie Graboski. "And don't you ever forget it."

Pine Knot News, Oct. 6, 2023