Beloved Artist and Community Leader Gloria Rosencrants Dies at 94

Gloria Rosencrants, a cherished figure in the Rochester community, passed away on October 18, 2025, at the age of 94. Known for her artistic talent and dedication to family and community service, Gloria’s life was marked by love, creativity, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation.

Born in South St. Paul, MN, to William and Ann Leimbek, Gloria attended South St. Paul High School, where she met her future husband, Ed Rosencrants. The couple married on June 20, 1953, and maintained a deep bond throughout their lives, exchanging love letters every Christmas until Ed’s passing on July 9, 2025.

Gloria pursued her passion for art at the University of Minnesota, where she specialized in fine arts. Her work earned her numerous accolades at local and state levels. As a freelance artist, she contributed her talents to notable organizations, including K&K Realty, Edina Realty, and the Historical Societies of Rochester and Olmsted County. In addition to painting, Gloria excelled in quilting and Norwegian Hardanger needlework, receiving recognition as a Norwegian Cultural Skills Specialist from the Sons of Norway.

Gloria was also deeply involved with the Girl Scouts, serving as a leader for many years. She inspired countless young girls, including her three daughters, Robin Kleinert, Gail Cook, and Diana Kressin, guiding them from Brownies to First Class Senior Scouts. Her belief in empowering girls to succeed was a hallmark of her leadership.

A dedicated member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church since 1960, Gloria actively participated in various church activities. She served on the Altar Guild, volunteered for fundraisers, and contributed her artistic skills to many events, fostering community spirit and connection.

Gloria’s vibrant personality extended beyond her artistic pursuits. She enjoyed playing in golf leagues and bridge clubs, and she embraced outdoor activities like cross-country skiing. Known for her lively spirit, she and Ed were celebrated for their dancing skills, often captivating audiences on the dance floor.

She is survived by her three daughters, five grandchildren—Justin, Chris, Teddy Cook, Annie Oldenburg, and Jeff Kleinert—and two great-grandchildren, Henry and Malcolm Oldenburg. Gloria’s legacy of love and community involvement will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and those she inspired.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on November 15, 2025, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, located at 2830 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will take place at 10:00 AM prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Mount Olive Lutheran Church or the Girl Scouts of Minnesota. Community members are encouraged to support local Girl Scout troops by purchasing cookies in February, continuing Gloria’s legacy of generosity and community support.