Jeannie Haugen

Jeannie Haugen

Mar 4, 1945 -

Oct 4, 2022

Jeannie Constance Haugen died peacefully at her home on Oct. 4, 2022. She was 77 years old.

Jeannie was born on March 4, 1945 in Sharon, N. D. to Roy and Cornelia (Bjerke) Sears. She was the second of four children. She grew up on a farm near Petersburg, N. D., and attended elementary school in a one-room schoolhouse.

Jeannie graduated from Unity High School in 1963. That same year, she enrolled at the University of North Dakota, and earned her Bachelor's degree in English in 1967.

Jeannie later moved to East Lansing, Mich. to attend graduate school at Michigan State University. She earned her Master's degree in Library Science and later worked at the MSU library as a librarian.

In 1975, she moved to Alaska with her then-fiancé, David Haugen. Jeannie and David married on May 6, 1978. Their son, Leif, was born on Oct. 18, 1979, and their son, Brent, was born on Aug. 18, 1981.

Jeannie was a "supermom" to her two sons while they were growing up, transporting them to and from baseball, hockey, and soccer practices and games; cheering for them from the bleachers; and helping them with their homework during tournaments.

In her spare time, Jeannie enjoyed cooking, gardening, reading, and spending time with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She volunteered her time making lefse at the Sons of Norway in Anchorage, and at the Anchorage Public Library, where she earned an award for her service. She particularly loved attending the Nutcracker Ballet with her family every year during the Thanksgiving weekend.

She was active at the Lutheran Church of Hope. Her strong faith was an essential part of her life. She loved to learn, share, and pray with others. As a beloved member of her church, she was regularly involved in bible studies, particularly with the Sunday morning crew, as well as worship and community events. She trusted in God's love and mercy throughout her life.

Jeannie was predeceased by her father and mother, and her brother-in-law, James Iverson, of Alexandria, Minn. She is survived by her husband, Dave, of Anchorage, Alaska; son, Leif and daughter-in-law, Leslie Jaehning, and their two children, Alice and Anders, all of Anchorage; son, Brent, of Anchorage; sister, Corrine (Sears) Iverson of Fergus Falls, Minn.; sister and brother-in-law, Judy (Sears) and Gene Rose, of Alexandria, Minn.; and brother, Don Sears, of Fargo, N.D.; and many other relatives.

Jeannie's kind spirit and gentle nature will be missed by all who knew her. The Latin root of her middle name, "Constance", means "resolute" or "faithful" and perfectly described her guiding principle throughout her life. During her battle with cancer, she maintained a positive attitude.

A celebration of life will take place at noon on Oct. 15, 2022 at Lutheran Church of Hope in Anchorage. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lutheran Church of Hope. Her interment will take place on Oct. 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Staples, Minnesota, followed by a reception at Faith Lutheran Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.