Vae Kaiser

After 96 years of a life well lived, Vae Kaiser passed peacefully Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving daughters and devoted husband of 75 years. Heaven now has an angel that we will miss with all our hearts. Vae herself said "I have lived a perfectly, beautiful life."

Vae was born May 8, 1929, to John W. and Jessie Vae (Jones) Deadrick in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She married the love of her life, Harley Kaiser, in 1950. After retirement they moved to Backus.

Early in her career, Vae taught in country schools and then went back to college and received her BA from University of Northern Iowa. She then went on to teach in Parkersburg, Iowa, until retirement.

Having a curious nature, Vae was constantly learning. Leaving her hometown after retirement to live in the northwoods of Minnesota was a big change. Her husband Harley and she had many adventures, traveling to Alaska and the lower states with their RV was just part of it.

Vae's passion for the arts included her love of watercolor painting. She was an accomplished artist who felt there was never enough time to paint. She loved flowers and planted extensive wildflower gardens.

A gracious hostess, Vae always welcomed family and friends into their home. She loved having company and her laugh was contagious.

Vae never met a stranger. People were attracted to her light and felt free to share their story with her.

Vae loved her family and friends with all of her heart! Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren gave her so much joy. She practiced gratitude daily. Her love of God and Jesus was in everything she did. Always a woman of faith, she showed us how to be thankful for even the most simple blessings.

Vae leaves behind her loving husband, Harley Kaiser; children Linda Kaiser and Kristie Frudden; son-in-law Bill Frudden; grandchildren Adam (Katherine) and Hannah; and two great-grandchildren.

Vae was preceded in death by her infant son, Steven; parents John and Jessie Deadrick; and brother John Jr. Deadrick.

A Celebration of Life for Vae will be held Sept. 22 at 11 a.m. at the Union Congregational Church in Hackensack. All who knew her are welcome.

Vae will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in a private ceremony.

Arrangements are entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Pine River.