Jen Gilbertson, age 50 of Prior Lake, MN, passed away from heart failure on her 50th birthday at her home on July 27, 2020.
Born in Monroe, WI on July 27, 1970, parents Roger and Colleen Mahlkuch celebrated the birth of their daughter, Jennifer Elizabeth Mahlkuch. From a young age, Jen demonstrated her creativity. Following her graduation in 1988 from Monroe High School, Jen furthered her education at Stout University. It’s here she earned her B.A in Graphic Design which lead her to finding her passion in life. After college, Jen interned in the Twin Cities where she focused on mass multi-media printing. As digital design became more prevalent, Jen decided she was ready to be her own boss. Along with her sister Katee, Jen started Bling Bandits, with their slogan—Where Bikers Meet Yoga. Later on, she created her own design business, Jamin Graphics (J represents for Jen, AM represents for Sam and IN represents for Calvin). It was through her business that Jen formed many close friendships often helping to promote her business and several other businesses around the Twin City metro area.
At times it was difficult fulfilling every role in a small business, but Jen wouldn’t have it any other way. She was charismatic and determined, with grin on her face, sleeves rolled up – SHE DID IT!!!
While Jen was a hard-working gal, she always placed her family first and foremost. In 1995 Jen was married to Jim Gilbertson and they were blessed with two sons, Sam and Cal. The family enjoyed being outdoors—biking, golfing, and especially boating on Prior Lake. Jen was a loving, supportive mother who coached soccer and track plus attended countless lacrosse games. Her love of family extended beyond her boys though. She was a thoughtful daughter, sister, and aunt. Putting her DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and design skills to use, Jen often showed her love through her art. Recently, with the help of her sons, Jen fixed up a pedal boat for her nephew Mac’s birthday, complete with stylized decals, named “Mac’s Magical Ride”.
There was nothing more important to Jen than her family, her fondest memories going to Monroe, Wisconsin her hometown especially Cheese Days plus Lake Kegonsa in Stoughton, Wisconsin where “Roger’s Waterpark” came alive.
Jen was energetic, witty, and always on the go. The only time she took a break from the action was to walk her dog Ellie who was her loving companion and soulmate. Jen’s smile, laughter, and selfless acts will always be remembered by those who love her.
Jen is survived by her sons, Sam and Cal and their dad, Jim; parents, Roger and Colleen Mahlkuch; sister, Katee (Michael “Dewy”) Dupont; nephew and godson, Mac; multitude of loving aunts, uncles, friends, co-workers and classmates.
Jen is greeted in Heaven by her maternal grandparents, Lawrence and Mary Dunphy; paternal grandparents, Ralph and Sylvia Mahlkuch.
Jen will forever be a reminder of goodness that resides in all of our hearts, and will be deeply missed by all who had the fortune to know her and her beautiful smile.
LOVE YOU MOST, JEN-JEN
“Best Mom Ever”
UPDATE: Due to the increase of Covid in Green County, a private Mass of Christian Burial for family and invited friends will be held Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 1PM at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Parish, 1760 14th St. Monroe, WI 53566. The public visitation has been canceled but friends are encouraged to drive through the church side parking lot following the mass in a show of support & encouragement to the family.
Jen will be laid to rest at Spring Lake Cemetery in Prior Lake at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and will be used to establish a memorial fund for her sons.
ReplyForward |
Offer Condolence for the family of Jen Gilbertson
Print Obituary & Condolences
Joanhennen
I’m so sorry Sam grandma Joan hennen
Wendy Hirschey
I knew Jen mostly as the mother of Sam & Cal. She was an anchor in their lives. My sincere condolences to all those loved her and felt the warmth of her friendship.
Michelle Mencacci
I am so sorry to hear about Jen’s passing. She was an extraordinary woman who loved life and loved having a great time with anyone and everyone who she crossed paths with. She will be missed by the very people who’s heart she touched. Rest in Eternal Peace my friend…
Annie Sheehan-Kerber
Sammy G, I am so sorry for your loss. Isaias messaged me with the news. We are here when you need us! Take care!- Annie (Isaias’s host mom)
Kim & Tiffany (SanMar)
We are so sorry for your loss. Jen was an amazing woman and she will be missed!
Terry & Carol Quinn
Roger, Colleen, Katee, Dewey, Cal and Sam, Our hearts go out to you and family for the loss of Jen, you are in our thoughts daily and we know how hard loss can be. Prayers for you.
Mark Barba
Roger and Colleen. Renee and I are so sorry for this tragedy. I cannot imagine what this feels like for you both. You have our condolences.
Sincerely Mark and Renee Barba
BETTY WOLFF
Wow, what a shock. Greg and I are thinking of you all that this very difficult time.
May you find the strength to get through the grief you all most be feeling.
Our prayers are with you all.
With much sympathy – Cuz Betty and Greg
Dawn and Randy Emerson
We will always remember Jen’s smile and amazing laughter. Our hearts go out to Sam and Cal and all of the family for your tragic loss at such a young age.
Jim and Liz Weninger
So sorry to hear about your loss. And sorry that we really had not taken the time to better know tnis neat lady.
Semira Mundt
I couldn’t imagine what your family is going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I’m so sorry for your loss and the pain you are going through.
Janine Grovenburg
I am so sorry to hear about Jen’s passing and my heart breaks for all of you. Many prayers and blessings for peace in your hearts. I was a big fan of her art and design, and I will fondly honor her memory every time I wear one of my beautiful headbands that she created. God bless, deepest sympathies.
With love, Janine, Savannah, Gavin.
Mary Kauzlarich
I am so sorry to hear this tragic news! She was such a sweet person! I will keep her family in my thoughts and prayers! ❤️
Mary Kauzlarich
Bree Reed
Prayers for the whole family! I was Cal’s preschool teacher when he was a lil tyke, and got to know Jen pretty well, she was definitely a spitfire, and such a loving and caring momma and person! She will never be forgotten!
Hobby Barndollar
They always say that your kids tell on you…..a generational family starting with Roger and Colleen who raised a beautiful soled daughter who raised two great sons. God Bless!