Janice Mae Opsahl, 91

Published 8:01 am Friday, June 13, 2025

Janice Mae Opsahl, 91

Janice Mae Opsahl, of Austin, Minnesota, was called to her eternal home with God on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the age of 91.

Janice was born on May 31, 1934, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Clarence and Hilda (Johnson) Lillquist. She was their only daughter and the eldest of four children. A proud graduate of Austin High School, she earned her diploma in 1952.

On June 26, 1955, Janice married the love of her life, Milford Opsahl, in a beautiful ceremony at St. Olaf Church. Their unwavering love and shared devotion to Christ laid the foundation for a life of purpose, family, and faith. Together, they made their home in Austin, where they opened Toyland, a toy store that brought joy to countless children. Janice was an integral part of her parents’ Hallmark store, quietly shaping its charm through curated buying, artful window displays, and the beautiful bows that became its signature. Her lifelong appreciation for thoughtful gifts and meaningful cards later led her to work as a merchandiser for American Greetings at Shopko, where she continued spreading cheer through the displays she carefully arranged.

Janice and Milford were blessed with seven children, each raised in a home rooted deeply in faith. Guided by their steadfast commitment to Christ, they ensured that their children were baptized and confirmed at St. Olaf Church—the spiritual heart of their family.

A devoted servant of the Lord, Janice lived her life as a testament to Christ’s love. She was a woman of strength and unshakable faith, always putting others before herself. She gave generously of her time and talents at St. Olaf, participating in numerous church activities, lending a helping hand wherever needed, and always doing so with grace and humility. Her love of cooking and baking, especially traditional Scandinavian treats, became a treasured gift to family and friends.

Janice also found peace and joy in her garden, where she lovingly tended to her flowers and plants, usually with a faithful collie at her side. She had a gentle affection for birds, spending quiet moments watching them from her window or in her yard, marveling at their beauty and song—a simple, everyday grace that reflected her tender spirit.

Janice is survived by her seven children: Mark Opsahl of Elysian; Laurie Pahl (Dan) of Lakeville; Brian Opsahl of Austin; David Opsahl (Jude) of Austin; Eric Opsahl (Stacey) of Forest Lake; Christine Ersland (Thomas) of Kenyon; and Jason Opsahl (Bonnie) of Austin.

She is also survived by her twelve grandchildren: Matt Opsahl, Michael Pahl (Kristen), Bobbie Ersland (Brianna), Christopher Pahl, Jessica Whitlock (Tyler), Luke Opsahl (Melissa), Cody Opsahl (Julie), Logan Jackson (Zachary), Kyle Opsahl (Tori), Elijah Opsahl (Gabrielle), Zoey Opsahl, and Mya Opsahl.

In addition, she is survived by her fourteen great-grandchildren—Felicia, Christian, Leah, Grant, Hildie, Simon, Greta, Alice, Bennett, Grace, Levi, Lincoln, Jett, and Cayson—along with two cousins, six sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of almost 50 years, Milford, her daughter-in-law Mary, three brothers: Roger, Bob and Tom and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with the Reverend Kris Ferkin officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery following the service.

Janice’s family would like to extend their sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff of Our House Memory Care and St. Croix Hospice for the incredible care and respect they showed to Janice during her time there.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.