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Lisa Vopat-Kerkow

Posted By Ballard Sunder Funeral Home On December 29, 2017 @ 6:29 pm In 2017,Obituaries | 50 Comments

WEB Lisa

Lisa Vopat-Kerkow, of Prior Lake, passed away suddenly at the age of 59 from an aggressive and rapidly progressing form of non-small cell lung cancer. A Christian Funeral will be held on Sunday, December 31, 2017 at 1:00 PM with visitation two-hours prior at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation in Prior Lake. Father Tom Walker will preside, and a luncheon will be held at T.J. Hooligan’s following the service.

On November 18, 1958 Kenneth and Marjorie Vopat celebrated the birth of their daughter, Lisa Ann Vopat. She was the sixth of eight children. Lisa loved growing up on the family farm in Faulkton, South Dakota. As a young girl she attended a one-room schoolhouse and spent time helping with farm chores like gathering eggs. She was a talented gymnast and enjoyed music, both playing the piano and singing. In middle school, Lisa’s family moved to Minnesota. Lisa graduated from Burnsville High School in 1977.

Following graduation, Lisa began working as a waitress. She loved people, and this was a good fit for her. In 1984, Lisa got the best job of her life when she became a mother to her beautiful daughter, Katie. That same year, Lisa also began her career as a flight attendant for Northwest Airlines (later Delta). Lisa was a natural. She enjoyed the work and all the people she met along the way. Lisa spent the next 34 years with the airline.

In September of 1992, Lisa married Kristopher Kruger, and they were blessed with two more girls, Emilee and Hannah. As a family they enjoyed camping, traveling and lots of family time together. Eventually, Lisa and Kris separated, but remained wonderful parents. Lisa passed on her love of music to her girls and always encouraged them to follow their dreams. She taught them the importance of family during their annual family camping trips with the Knights of Columbus. Thanks to Lisa’s profession she was able to show her family the world through travel. Between escaping to Florida during the bitter winters or exploring Europe with her girls, it was always a wonderful time. Especially on the special Mother-Daughter trips Lisa took with each of her girls when they turned 18.

In 2008, Lisa met the love of her life. She was standing outside on a cold winter night, and a kind man walked up behind her and just stood there. When she asked what he was doing, he replied that he was blocking the wind for her. From that moment on, they were inseparable. Russ and Lisa enjoyed any time spent together. Particularly relaxing at the cabin, fishing, taking Harley rides, boating, camping, and bonfires with their friends. They shared a beautiful garden together in the backyard where Lisa could be found working away on any given summer day. Their love grew deeper every day. Lisa didn’t just love Russ, she loved his entire family, especially his daughter, Jayme.

Although Lisa had many hobbies, family was the most important thing in her life. She loved being a daughter, sister, mom and grandma. She was so excited to become Russ’s wife, and in her heart, she already was. Unfortunately, Lisa’s earthly journey came to an end much too soon. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on the evening of December 27, 2017.

Lisa was a sweet, kind and generous woman. She never spoke an unkind word and was completely selfless. Quirky and extremely loveable, her smile and positive energy was always contagious. She was the ultimate caregiver, and everyone loved her. Lisa truly enjoyed life and made the most of it.

She will be remembered always by her loving daughters, Catherine Vopat, Emilee Kruger and Hannah Kruger; husband, Russ Kerkow and his daughter, Jayme Kerkow; grandchildren, Braeden Hoff, Brooklyn Hoff and Olivia Vopat; mother, Marjorie Vopat; siblings, Susan (Jeff) Arneson, David Vopat, Paul Vopat, Mark Vopat, Nina (Robert) Vopat-Mills, Betsy (Greg) Drehmel and many other loving relatives and dear friends. Lisa is preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Vopat and brother, Kent Vopat.

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Condolences for the family of “Lisa Vopat-Kerkow”

Condolence from Dianne Ford Sonsteng on December 29th, 2017 6:49 pm

I am deeply sorry for your loss. So profoundly shocking. Lisa is a wonderful perdson with an infectious laugh and sparkling eye. RIP

Condolence from Terry Stier on December 29th, 2017 7:45 pm

Russ I am so sorry

Condolence from Julie Brett on December 29th, 2017 10:57 pm

Heartbroken. Praying for your loved ones Lisa. We will surely miss you!!

Condolence from Donna Hartman on December 29th, 2017 11:08 pm

So sorry for your loss. It’s hard when loosing a parent. And was a wonderful grandmother. Sending prayers for the families. She will be truly missed
Brad Hoff
Donna Hartman

Condolence from Leslie Langfield Gibbons on December 29th, 2017 11:25 pm

My deepest condolences for your loss!
God bless you and your families!

Condolence from LeRoy Misfeldt on December 30th, 2017 10:07 am

Our thoughts and prayers go to you Margie and family we are so saddened to hear of Lisa’s death keep your memories close we love you wish we could be there Elaine & LeRoy

Condolence from Mike and Pat Johnson on December 30th, 2017 10:16 am

Our condolences to the family. All are in our prayers. Blessed be Lisa, as God welcomes her into his Kingdom as his next Angel in heaven. God Bless all.

Condolence from Diana Kerkow – Kaiser on December 30th, 2017 10:23 am

She was an amazing woman! We will miss her dearly! ! I’m so very sorry for the loss of such a wonderful lady! Sincere Condolences to her loved one’s!

Diana Kerkow – Kaiser

Condolence from Becky Beiersdorf on December 30th, 2017 11:16 am

I am in utter shock…so devastating. I absolutely adored Lisa and she was always so fun to fly with. My heart is breaking for the family she leaves behind. In fact not too long ago she was sharing pictures of her newest granddaughter to me on the plane. I will miss her so very much. My deepest sympathy to her family.

Condolence from Amy Smith on December 30th, 2017 11:29 am

There are no right words to say when such beautiful kind people leave us to soon. All the great memories I have with Lisa will remain in my heart forever. I will keep you all in my prayers !! May you feel the arms of The Lord wrapped around you all!

Condolence from Denise Faragher on December 30th, 2017 12:09 pm

Hannah, Emily & Katy, your were so blessed to be raised by such a wonderful woman, and I can’t imagine how hard it is to have her taken from your lives so suddenly. She lives on in you all, and Braden (she loved being a Grandmother). Russ, I have only met you a few times, but I am so happy you two found each other.
I will truly miss Lisa, but I am so glad that she was in my life. I hope some of your pain is eventually eased by feeling blessed to have known and loved Lisa. Many hugs and prayers for Lisa’s entire family.

Condolence from Amy Stead on December 30th, 2017 12:24 pm

Katie my heart is heavy with sadness for your family. Love each other and be grateful for the time you had with her no matter how it was ended too soon. Love yo you.

Condolence from DeAnne Nicholson on December 30th, 2017 12:26 pm

I am so sorry to hear of Lisa’s passing . She was a wonderful woman and a joy to work with. I always loved seeing her when we flew together. She will be greatly missed!

Condolence from Pam Kraska on December 30th, 2017 12:44 pm

My sincere sympathies times a million. Such a sad time and so young. God’s speed for peace in your family.

Condolence from Claudia Merriman on December 30th, 2017 1:12 pm

It is hard to believe that Lisa is gone. I am shocked and so sad for the entire family. Her distinctive voice and laugh and her calm and kind manner made her someone you didn’t forget. She will be so missed.

Condolence from Shari Arneson on December 30th, 2017 1:28 pm

Lisa was such a wonderful lady and will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to know her. May love and wonderful memories surround all of you and help you through the days ahead. May you have peace.
With love,

Condolence from Sarah Fischer (Lenway) on December 30th, 2017 1:44 pm

Katie, family and friends
I am very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Sarah Fischer (Lenway)

Condolence from Cathie Hayward on December 30th, 2017 3:15 pm

My deepest condolences to Lisa’s family. She adored you all and was so proud. We will miss her terribly at work. She was so dear to us all.

Condolence from Susan Engstrom on December 30th, 2017 3:50 pm

I am so saddened by the sudden passing of sweet dear, Lisa. I’m still trying to grasp this, I will miss seeing Lisa at work and working with her. I so enjoyed working with her, listening to her talk about her lovely kids/family and Russ!
After she met Russ, Lisa had such a calmness in her, I knew he was the one.
I’m out of town and will not be able to attend Lisa’s service. My thoughts and prayers to her family!!!
With my deepest sympathy!!

Sue Engstrom

Condolence from Julie McDonald on December 30th, 2017 4:11 pm

My deepest sympathy & prayers are with Lisa’s family…I also worked many flights with Lisa and always enjoyed our friendship with much laughter…will miss her so very much…

Condolence from Romaine Meek on December 30th, 2017 5:59 pm

Russ, we are so, so sadden for yours and the families sudden loss. This was and is so shocking for us. Lisa was just the sweetest person/friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We will miss her so much.. you take care and know will are thinking about you!

Tim and Romaine

Condolence from Dore Wagner on December 30th, 2017 6:31 pm

Sending sincere sympathy. Lisa was truly a special person. Always joyful…she lit up the lounge at work with her presence and ever present smile. Lisa and I enjoyed sharing funny stories about our daughters, who are good friends. I see Lisa’s beautiful heart in her daughter, Hannah, I’m certain she lives on in all her children.

Condolence from Christy Meister on December 30th, 2017 8:02 pm

I’m so sorry Katie. I remember you talking about your mom to me! Sending prayers and hugs during this difficult time.
Love,
Christy Meister

Condolence from Constance Reid on December 30th, 2017 9:30 pm

Lisa always had a warm sincere smile for of us …even at 5:00 a.m. check in at base!!! Her calm , loving, and graceful manner is truly an inspiration. To her family…my deepest sympathy. To her work family… our hearts ache. She will be missed greatly. Prayers to all who loved her.

Condolence from Robin Trow on December 30th, 2017 9:54 pm

I am so saddened and shocked by the sudden loss of dear sweet Lisa. My prayers are with her family as,they try to forge ahead without her. You now have an amazing angel watching over you. God bless you all. RIP dear friend.

Condolence from Kelly Schertler on December 31st, 2017 12:24 am

My deepest sympathy and prayers to Lisa’s family. Lisa was such a kind and loving person. She loved her family and was very proud of her girls. She will be missed by all of us in the BUNCO group.

Condolence from Brian Eric Jacobs on December 31st, 2017 7:21 am

Lisa was nothing but class and kindness on the airplane. She was a trusted colleague and everyone who flew with her loved her. She is one of those that people spoke of only in glowing terms. I didn’t know Lisa well, but every time I worked with her, it was a joyful day. I’m so sorry to hear of this huge loss to Delta, to her family and loved-ones, and indeed, to the world.

Condolence from marie degrood on December 31st, 2017 8:00 am

I last flew with Lisa mid November when we discovered our birthdays were that week within a few days of each other. We had a little celebration in the front galley, clinked our coffee cups together and wished each other happy birthday. Every day was a celebration working with you, Lisa. We will miss you dearly.

Condolence from cathy senescall on December 31st, 2017 8:09 am

Please accept my most heartfelt sympathy over the loss of your beloved Lisa. I am a co-worker of Lisa’s and have always enjoyed her beautiful smile, and her kind and joyful spirit. May your treasured memories, along with the love and support of family and friends bring you some measure of comfort and peace. Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence from Sandy Langer on December 31st, 2017 8:41 am

The first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Lisa is her beautiful smile. We hadn’t seen each other for years until one day we boarded a plane where she happens to be working. It was so fun to see her shine in her professional role as she did as a wife and mother. There is no easy time or way to love someone we love. To her family, I pray for your comfort at this most difficult time. She will always be with you. Hearn did indeed gain another angel.

Sandy Langer

Condolence from Kay Bergman on December 31st, 2017 9:43 am

Lisa was always fun to work with. She will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lisa’s friends and family.

Condolence from Jean Laing-Weber on December 31st, 2017 10:42 am

Her name on your trip made it easier to go to work. Think of every kind beautiful flight attendant you have ever had on an airplane and it could be her. Prayers for her family going forward without her in their lives, and for us her coworkers going forward without her in ours.

Condolence from Greg and Tracy Riffle on December 31st, 2017 11:23 am

We were so grieved to hear of Lisa’s passing. I recently flew with her and was so delighted to see her and catch up on her life. She joyfully shared about her family and seemed so happy!
Lisa was lovely in every way, inside and out! Her work family was so blessed to have known her.
Our sincerest sympathies.

Condolence from Rodrigo Aguirre on December 31st, 2017 12:46 pm

I was bless to meet this wonderful woman. even though we only spend a week together it did not took me too long to realize how special she was.I’m really sorry for your loss.

Condolence from Bonnie Olson on December 31st, 2017 1:13 pm

My heart goes out to your entire family. I truly enjoyed working with Lisa she was such a delight. I want to you to know how proud she was of her children and grandchildren!! She will surely be missed by all who knew her.

Condolence from Sue Hyek-Ejuwa on December 31st, 2017 1:21 pm

Sincere condolences to Lisa’s family. It was sad news reading this today, while I hadn’t worked with Lisa for awhile, I used to do many turns with her. It was always a good trip and Lisa will be missed. Sending many heartfelt thoughts and prayers for her family.

Condolence from Cindy Sawyer on December 31st, 2017 3:57 pm

Lisa and I were FA classmates in 12/84. We quickly became friends and especially as she was one number junior to me (ha!). Forced to New York upon graduation, we latched on to one another, became roommates and were lucky enough to be assigned our first trip together to Stockholm, Sweden. The lead position was deferred to Lisa, being the most junior FA on the trip. The look of fear in her big beautiful blue eyes prompted me to volunteer myself for that role. Our friendship continued as we planned exotic vacations together only to realize one or the other forgot to bid the same block of reserve days off. We often didn’t end up where our adventurous spirits had initially planned on going, but rather where an empty airplane seat would eventually take us …. like Hong Kong for a weekend. Lisa was one who could always just go with the flow, never complaining… even when agreeing to be a bridesmaid in my wedding meant wearing bright fuchsia colored shoes!

I often think of the intersections in our lives, those that are planned, and those that occur by chance and how those intersections have the potential to change us. Meeting Lisa was surely a gift that changed me. In the ebb and flow of life as we all encountered our own personal storms, Lisa was the kind, loving, non-judgmental and fiercely compassionate person who wanted nothing more than to be able to help her friends.

To her beloved daughters, Katie, Emilee and Hannah, Lisa had an immeasurable amount of unconditional love for you. There are some things that never ever leave us….and a mother’s love is one of them. Trust the depth of her love for you and you will feel her spirit and heart forever. To Russ and her family … Lisa will always be that light that shines in the darkness. Her kind and joyful spirit will live on and you will continue to feel the warmth she generated for so many.

May God hold you all in the palm of His hand and grant you a peace that passes all understanding.

With deepest sympathy,

Condolence from Katie Vopat on January 3rd, 2018 2:43 am

Oh Cindy! Reading this beautiful sentiment of my mother brought tears to my eyes. It seemed no matter how long it had been since she last saw you, you were always on her mind, always her dear friend from work. As I told you, when she passed I was thinking of who to get ahold of and you came to the forefront of my mind. Busy lives brought you two to different destinations, but you were both always in each other’s hearts and minds. I am so so glad you were able to attend my mother’s funeral. Love, Katie

Condolence from Paula Notvedt on December 31st, 2017 5:28 pm

I just flew in from Paris today and went into my emails to read the news of Lisa!!! I am so shocked and saddened by the loss of this beautiful soul. All the comments that have already been said about Lisa are so true. She truly was a gem. She and I flew turns together and always talked about our loved ones. She was so proud of her girls and loved them so much!! I look out at the beautiful sunset tonight and see her light up the sky!!! We will truly miss her…..Love and Hugs to her beautiful family.

Condolence from Wendy Adams on December 31st, 2017 6:50 pm

I just heard of Lisa’s passing today at work ..I remember Lisa fondly ..I worked with Lisa a few times thru the years out of Minneapolis and remember her sense of humor and spunky personality . I liked her a lot and although I didn’t know her well I will miss seeing her at work and sharing her funny good attitude on flights. I so enjoyed working with her. I’m deeply saddened to hear of losing her so young and I extend my deepest sympathy to her whole family .

Condolence from Linda Mehrens on January 1st, 2018 9:38 am

I’m saddened and shocked at Lisa’s passing. I loved flying with Lisa and I will miss her. She loved her family so much and was proud of her children. Lisa touched the lives of so many. My condolences to her family. Blessings.

Condolence from Lisa Peterson on January 1st, 2018 4:51 pm

I always loved the fact that I was flying with Lisa. She was just so much fun to be with and I so enjoyed working with her. She had such a wonderful spirit and she will be sorely missed. Sending my thoughts and prayers to her friends and to her family. Such as terrible loss for all.

Condolence from Lindy Hursh on January 1st, 2018 8:51 pm

I add my condolences to the impressive number of those ahead of mine. It has probably already been realized by her family that she was well-liked at work. When I think back to the last time I saw her in Inflight, Im struck by the fact that EVERYONE that she walked past greeted her and vice versa. Her warmth was tangible, her goodness seen, her presence in our work days will be sadly missed.

Condolence from Regina Hickey on January 1st, 2018 9:42 pm

We are so saddened to hear of Lisa’s passing. She was such a sweet person, we always had so much fun at Bunco. I remember Lisa as very generous, kind and a loving mother to her daughters. Our son Branden played with Kris and Lisa’s kids when they were little ones. Our condolences to her family, many blessings to you all.

Condolence from Terri and Ken Kurita on January 2nd, 2018 11:20 am

I am still trying to grasp the loss of this beautiful lady. I enjoyed flying with her so much. She was a positive and happy person who loved her family very much. I enjoyed sharing her stories and family photos. May God bless Lisa’s family with hope and healing. She will be missed so very much.

Condolence from David Wenberg on January 2nd, 2018 10:39 pm

I am certainly very lucky and blessed for having known and worked with Lisa for the last 34 years. I will greatly miss her smiling face and kind personality. Condolences to her family who she adored and talk about endlessly on the jump seat.

Condolence from Jan Niederer on January 3rd, 2018 2:25 pm

I always enjoyed flying with Lisa as she was simply a joy to work with and will be missed by all who knew her!
My sincere sympathy to her family, may you have wonderful memories that will sustain you during this difficult time.
God Bless You All!

Condolence from Nancy Niznik on January 5th, 2018 10:02 am

Hearing of Lisa’s passing came as a shock to me this morning. My heart is saddened knowing we will not be seeing her at check-in or on a trip but her life, joy and kindness lives on in our hearts. May the God of all comfort and peace hold you close during this time of great sadness.

Condolence from Rick and Louise Hoefert on January 5th, 2018 9:37 pm

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Cousin Lisa’s family, and especially Aunt Marjorie as I know the loss of a child leaves such a hollow spot in your heart, but know there is a place in Heaven for Lisa.

Condolence from Coley Ristvedt on January 6th, 2018 7:11 pm

Heartfelt Condolences and Sincere Sympathy to Lisa’s Family and Friends. She is an Angel! Her Love for her Family was astonishing and she always had a hug and twinkle in her eye for Flight Family! She will be truly missed but also an Inspiration to all! God Bless~ ✈

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