Community Mourns Loss of Gloria Rosencrants, Celebrated Artist and Leader

Gloria Rosencrants, a beloved member of the Rochester community, passed away on October 18, 2025, at the age of 94. She was the cherished wife of Ed Rosencrants, who died just months earlier on July 9, 2025. Gloria’s life was marked by her artistic talent, dedication to family, and commitment to community service.

Born in South St. Paul, Minnesota, to William and Ann Leimbek, Gloria attended South St. Paul High School, where she met Ed. The couple married on June 20, 1953, and maintained a strong bond throughout their lives, exchanging love letters every Christmas for over seven decades. Gloria pursued her passion for art at the University of Minnesota, where she earned a degree while developing her skills as a freelance artist.

Throughout her career, Gloria garnered acclaim for her artistic contributions, receiving awards at local and state levels. She worked with organizations such as K&K Realty, Edina Realty, and the Historical Societies of Rochester and Olmsted County. Gloria’s artistic pursuits extended beyond painting; she became skilled in quilting and Norwegian Hardanger needlework, earning recognition as a Norwegian Cultural Skills Specialist from the Sons of Norway.

Gloria’s impact on the community was profound. She served as a Girl Scout leader for many years, inspiring confidence and leadership among young girls. She guided her three daughters, Robin (Tom) Kleinert, Gail Cook, and Diana (Keith) Kressin, through the ranks from Brownies to First Class Senior Scouts, instilling valuable life skills and experiences.

Legacy of Community Engagement

A lifelong member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church since 1960, Gloria was actively involved in church activities, contributing her time and talents to various fundraising events and the Altar Guild. Her enthusiasm extended beyond the church, as she participated in golf leagues, bridge clubs, and cross-country skiing, embodying a spirit of joy and community engagement.

Gloria was known for her vibrant personality, and her love of dancing with Ed was a highlight of their relationship. Friends and family remember her as someone who taught them the importance of living generously and enjoying life to the fullest.

Gloria is survived by her three daughters and five grandchildren: Justin (Heather) Cook, Chris Cook, Teddy Cook, Annie (Mike) Oldenburg, and Jeff (Bryanne) Kleinert, along with two great-grandchildren, Henry and Malcolm Oldenburg.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 AM on November 15, 2025, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, located at 2830 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will begin one hour prior at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Mount Olive Lutheran Church or the Girl Scouts of Minnesota. Community members are also encouraged to support local Girl Scouts by purchasing cookies at stands in February.

Gloria Rosencrants leaves behind a legacy of creativity, leadership, and love, cherished by her family, friends, and the wider community.