Lillian M. (Vermie) Duethman

Obituary for Lillian “Lil” Marie Vermie Duethman August 21, 1927 – April 13, 2025 Lillian “Lil” Marie Vermie Duethman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. Born on August 21, 1927, in Terril, Iowa, Lil was named Lillian Marie Vermie, though she was known affectionately throughout her life simply as “Lil.” Lil grew up in a large, loving family and was one of seven siblings. From a young age, Lil dreamed of becoming a teacher, a calling she joyfully fulfilled. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and went on to make a profound difference in the lives of her students as a dedicated special education teacher. Lil met the love of her life, Raymond “Ray” Louis Duethman, on a blind date while he was a student at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. The two married on September 11, 1948, beginning a partnership filled with love, family, travel, and service. Together, they raised four children: Michael, Nancy Jo, Stephen, and James (Jim). The family made their home in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, and spent countless treasured summers at their beloved cabin on Big Carnelian Lake. The Fourth of July celebrations were a cherished tradition, filled with joy and togetherness. Later in life, Ray and Lil moved to Woodbury, Minnesota, continuing to make beautiful memories with their growing family. Lil was a woman of deep faith and an active member of both Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Ambrose Catholic Churches. Her creativity and care extended beyond the classroom—she was an incredibly talented seamstress, known for sewing stunning quilts that became treasured gifts for friends and family. Lil's love and legacy live on in her seven grandchildren—Pat and Kyle Duethman; Katie and Maddie Duethman; Hallie and Lane Duethman; and Jimmy Kruse—as well as her two great-grandchildren, Dominic and Michael Kruse. She took great joy in spending time with them, sharing stories, hugs, and laughter. During one of Ray’s assignments, Lil and Ray spent time living in Germany and took the opportunity to explore Europe together; they also traveled across the United States in their retirement. But no matter how far she traveled, her heart was always with her family. Lil will be remembered as a devoted wife, a nurturing mother and grandmother, a passionate educator, and a woman of grace and quiet strength. Her influence echoes through the lives she touched—in the classroom, in her home, and in the hearts of all who knew her. Lil is welcomed into heaven by her loving husband Ray and their cherished children Michael, Nancy Jo, and Stephen. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Funeral Services Monday April 21, 11 AM at the Roselawn Cemetery Chapel, 803 Larpenteur Ave., Roseville.  Visitation one hour prior.  Interment Roselawn Cemetery.

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