Muriel Sterne

Muriel Elaine Sterne (née Weinstein), age 91, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, in Hopkins, Minnesota. Born on December 7, 1933, in the Bronx, New York, Muriel lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a deep appreciation for both nature and human connection.

Muriel's early years were shaped by her upbringing in an Orthodox Jewish family. Her father, an immigrant who left Europe before being drafted into World War I, instilled in her a strong sense of heritage and perseverance. These values would guide her throughout her life as she navigated personal loss and found new paths forward.

Education was a cornerstone of Muriel's life. She began her academic journey at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, and went on to earn a master's degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Her love of learning extended far beyond the classroom—she was an avid reader with a particular interest in history, architecture, and biblical studies. Her home was filled with issues of Audubon Magazine, Minnesota nature publications, and an extensive collection of historical periodicals.

Professionally and personally, Muriel embraced technology from its earliest days. From IBM punch cards to modern Windows systems, she used her skills to support organizations dedicated to helping women in crisis, including Chrysalis. Her commitment to service reflected her belief in empowering others through knowledge and compassion.

Muriel experienced profound love and loss throughout her life. She was first married to Richard Sterne, with whom she raised their family in the Conservative Jewish tradition. After Richard's passing at the age of 56, Muriel found solace and companionship through grief counseling, where she met Philip Griffin. Their partnership brought renewed joy and shared passions—especially bird watching. Together they joined a traveling bird-watching group that deepened their connection to nature and each other.

Her spiritual journey evolved over time as well. While rooted in Orthodox Judaism during childhood and later raising her family within Conservative Judaism alongside Richard's Reform background, Muriel eventually found resonance with Humanistic Judaism—a belief system emphasizing inner strength over divine intervention. This path aligned closely with Philip's own transformation from Quaker minister to humanist thinker after years of religious study and preaching.

Muriel is lovingly remembered by her son David Sterne and his wife Lori Sterne; her grandchildren Abigail and Adam Sterne; and her daughter-in-law Carie Rentschler. She was preceded in death by her younger son Jonathan Sterne earlier this year in March 2025; by her beloved partner Philip Griffin; and by her husband Richard Sterne.

A woman of intellect, empathy, and enduring spirit, Muriel leaves behind a legacy of thoughtful engagement with the world around her—from the intricacies of faith to the quiet beauty of birdsong overhead. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and inspiration to all who continue the work she held dear. A Celebration of Life will be held on December 7, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 05:30 PM at The Orchards of Minnetonka 10995 Wayzata Blvd. There will be visiting time with snacks after the service. Therefore end time to the service is actually open at this point.