It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our sweet Kristina Louise, who gained her angel’s wings on Independence Day 2025 - a day now forever marked with deeper meaning for those who knew and loved her. Born with Down syndrome on March 14, 1967, in New Rockford, ND, Kristina lived a life that reminded us of the power of love, resilience, and joy. Kristina will be remembered for her pure heart, youthfulness, and innocence. She taught us the importance of patience, humility, compassion, and acceptance.

Kristina was blessed with a family that supported her through celebrations and struggles. Kriss was number twelve of thirteen children with six loving sisters and brothers. She was the daughter of two extraordinary parents, Harold (Zip) and Elaine, whose devotion, care, and advocacy made her world fuller and richer.

There is something special about growing up as a child with special needs. Individuals with Down Syndrome have often been considered to be Angels here on Earth. Despite Krissy’s disabilities, she had many abilities. She had a keen sense of timing and sense of humor. Her sneak attack of a well-timed kick to the shin of a passerby would send her into giggles. Her spot-on high fives and a plop to sit on your lap to deliver a big, wet smooch was enjoyed by many. She loved music and had high-stepping dance moves like no other! Her love of family was at times overshadowed by her love of ice cream with the occasional midnight raid to the freezer to put her spoon in the bucket of cold sweetness. She loved animals and was fond of horseback rides and soft kitties. Her nickname was “Beans”, and she definitely knew the meaning of “the musical fruit”. Kristina’s journey was unique and genuine. She touched many lives with laughter and the occasional “love tapping” backhand.

On the day our nation celebrated freedom, Kristina found hers - the freedom to fly, to be complete, to be at peace. Her body and soul are now unburdened, and we take comfort in knowing she is free. Fly high, Sweet Krissy. You were loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure. We look forward to sharing that bucket of ice cream someday with you in Heaven!

Kristina was welcomed home to Heaven to be reunited with her parents, Zip and Elaine, brother Roger, and all her grandparents. She is survived by siblings: Ronald, LaDonna Rolfson, Sandra (Merle Longnecker), Joan, Sarah (Andre Plaskota), Harold (Lorra), Rudolph (Kathy), Howard, Timothy (Stacie), Tracella (Dan Painter), and Melissa (Keith Boutwell), many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews.

We send special thanks to all who were involved in the care of Kristina throughout her 58 years. We are grateful for the love and compassion of the medical staff, teachers, therapists, caregivers, bus drivers, etc. We are especially grateful to Black Hills Works and the dedicated staff at Minnesota Place in Rapid City, SD, where Krissy worked and resided for 30+ years and was given the support needed to live as independently as possible.

A celebration of Kristina’s life will be held on October 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Behrens Wilson Funeral Home in Rapid City, SD. Condolences can be sent at www.behrenswilson.com. In lieu of flowers, her family requests that a donation be made in her name to the Special Olympics North Dakota. As we say goodbye, may we all choose to be a little more patient, a little more gentle, and a lot more kind- to ourselves, to each other, and to the world.