Garda Droogsma

1939 - 2024

Garda Droogsma, age 85, passed away peacefully January 27, 2024. She was surrounded with love.

Garda was born on January 6, 1939 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to John and Grace (Van Dalen) Godeke. She was the first of three children followed by two brothers. For the majority of her childhood she lived in Pease, Minnesota. She graduated from Pease Christian School after the 8th grade and her remaining school days were spent at Milaca High School, graduating in 1956.

Garda worked for the Pease Creamery after graduation where her love of bookkeeping was put to good use. She began dating Del Droogsma after he returned from the service and they were married in June of 1958. They made their home in Isanti where they raised three children. In 1977 they built a home in Cambridge where they remained the rest of their days.

Garda was the ultimate helpmate and wingman for Del and a devoted mother. She created a warm, "Dutch clean" and welcoming home to all who entered. On many days people opened the door to the smells of homemade bread and soups. A store bought cookie rarely crossed her threshold. It was a simpler time to raise a family and it suited her perfectly. She brought a quick wit, peppy step and laughter to our world.

Faith, family and friends were the cornerstone of her life and babies and toddlers were her passion. To watch her light-up at the sight of an infant and then lovingly and gently tend to their needs was a beautiful thing to behold.

In her younger years she enjoyed roller-skating, skiing, ice skating and on hot summer days loading her kids in her 1969 Plymouth "3-on-the-tree" and head to Mankes. She loved music, playing her piano with gusto, cabin days, Maui vacations, a strong cup of coffee in the morning, a glass of wine at night and any pasta dish being served.

Garda was a wonderful "Gammie." She attended all the concerts, games, plays and races and was the best cheerleader any grandchild could ask for. They will miss her sweet spirit and perfectly frosted Christmas cookies. She was able to meet and cuddle her great-grandson, August.

Garda was preceded in death by her husband, Del; an infant son; her parents; and her brother, Randy.

She is survived by her daughter, Lori and son-in-law, Mike Lind; son, Joel and daughter-in-law, Teresa; son, John and daughter-in-law, Sara; and four grandchildren, Holland (Andrew) Eagan, Hunter Lind, Ryder Droogsma, Tucker Droogsma; and a great-grandson, August Eagan. She is also survived by her brother, Don Godeke and sisters-in-law, Jan, Judy, Carol Droogsma and many nieces and nephews.

A private burial will take place at the Pease Cemetery. A gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later date. Memorials given in her memory to any organization that help children would be lovely. Rest in peace Gammie, you will be missed. Online condolences can be made at StrikeLifeTributes.com.