Erika Lotte Lindner

Erika Lindner passed away October 5, 2026 at Welia Hospital in Mora at age 88.

Erika Lindner was truly one of a kind—a strong, independent woman with a fiery spirit who blazed her own trail through life. Known for her impeccable sense of style and flair for fashion, Erika was a stylish trendsetter who carried herself with with class and elegance. She was the life of the party and lived boldly while doing things her own way.

She was young at heart and will always be remembered for her strength, her laughter, her love of family and friends, and her unmistakable German heritage. Erika lived life on her own terms and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Erika was born on January 19, 1938, in Wurnfurt, Germany. She grew up during the difficult years of World War II, when food was scarce and life was far from easy. One story she shared revealed the kind of person she was, even as a little girl. Her family had very little food, and she was sent to her grandmother's house to get a loaf of bread. On her way home, she encountered Polish soldiers marching through the cold, hungry and beaten down by the hardships of war. Without hesitation, Erika gave them the bread and continued home empty-handed. Even as a child, she showed a compassion and generosity that would remain with her throughout her life.

But Erika wasn't just kindhearted; she was a spitfire too! A little red-haired tomboy, she loved climbing lindenbaum trees and jumping from branch to branch and swimming in the rivers. She was fearless, spirited, and full of adventure. That spark never left her.

Her love story began at a dance in Frankfurt, Germany, where she met the man who would become her husband. Although they couldn't speak each other's language, they understood one another perfectly on the dance floor. With rhythm in their hearts and a natural talent for the jitterbug, they went on to win dance contests together. And so their love story began. They married in Germany and eventually made their way to the United States, ready to build a life together. Together, their love bloomed and they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Helene, born on April 26, 1957.

In 1965, Erika proudly became an American citizen. She loved her adopted country and worked hard to create a good life for herself and her family.

Erika was no stranger to hard work. She began her career in America as a seamstress, sewing draperies. After moving to Spring Lake Park and later buying a home there, she continued working for a sewing company. It was there that she met one of her dearest lifelong friends, Patty Shieler. Their friendship lasted an incredible 60 years, a testament to the special bond they shared.

She also formed very close life long friendships with Marisha and Renate that spanned through the decades. Together, they all became traveling buddies, sharing adventures, laughter, and countless memories. These friendships became an important part of Erika's life, lasting through the years and bringing her so much happiness.

Eventually, Erika moved to Forest Lake, where her independent spirit and entrepreneurial drive led her to start her own business from home. She called it Erika's Interiors, creating beautiful window treatments for her customers. She took pride in her work and in everything she and her husband had accomplished together. They worked hard for all they had, and even when money was tight, they made time for each other.

Erika knew how to work hard, but she also knew how to celebrate too! Her home was a place where people gathered, friendships flourished, and wonderful parties came to life. She loved champagne, balloons, and, of course, her many, many birthday parties! Erika believed in celebrating life, and she certainly gave everyone plenty of reasons to celebrate with her.

One of Erika’s greatest joys was her family. She loved her daughter, Helene, deeply and was later blessed with two grandchildren, Todd and Elisa, the ladder with whom she shared a birthday with. They lovingly called her Omie, the German word for grandma. She chose Omie rather than Oma or any other name because it sounded younger—after all, Erika never wanted to be old!

The name suited her perfectly, and soon Todd and Elisa’s friends began calling her Omie, too. Before long, she had become everyone’s Omie in the neighborhood, a reflection of the warmth, love, and unforgettable spirit she shared with everyone around her.

In 1984, Erika became a widow, facing another difficult chapter in her life. But true to her nature, she continued forward with strength and independence.

Erika became a great-grandmother in 2009 and again in 2012, welcoming Milo and Kylie, two very special additions to her family whom she adored. To them, she was lovingly known as Omie as well because great grandma definitely sounded too old for her.

Later, she moved to Danbury, Wisconsin, to be closer to her daughter, Helene. There, she met Bo Alstrom, a wonderful friend with whom she shared many good times with. Together, they enjoyed winning raffles, Halloween costume contests, countless lunches and dinner outings, making memories and finding plenty of reasons to laugh.

Through every chapter of her life, Erika remained a strong, independent woman who loved being surrounded by people. She had a way of bringing energy into a room and making life more interesting just by being herself. Her German heritage was always evident in her personality, her determination, and her spirited approach to life.

Erika was a woman who knew hardship but chose generosity, joy and celebrations instead. She knew the value of hard work but always made room for fun. She cherished her family, treasured her friendships, loved a good party, and never lost that little red-haired girl's spark.

Erika Lindner was one of a kind. She was a daughter, a wife, a mother, an Omie, a loyal friend, a hardworking businesswoman, and a woman who lived life on her own terms. Her stories will continue to be told. Her laughter will be remembered. Her friendships will carry her spirit forward. And the love she gave to her family and friends will remain in their hearts forever.

Erika, you brought so much life, love, and laughter into this world. You will be missed more than words can say, and you will never be forgotten.

Rest peacefully, dear Erika. Your spark will shine on in all the lives you touched.