Kimberly Ann Samuelson, 56, a well-known, lifelong Crookston, MN resident known affectionately as Kim, passed away late Tuesday evening, October 24, 2023, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND. She was born on December 20, 1966, at Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, the daughter of Roger and Gloria (Thompson) Johnson. Kim was baptized at the Walle Lutheran Church in Thompson, ND, and confirmed in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Crookston.
Her education began at Carmen Elementary School before graduating from Central High School with the Class of 1985. During her high school years, she worked alongside her father at his restaurant known as RBJ’s in Crookston. While attending UND for a short time, Kim continued to work with her father until his passing in 1987. She then took ownership of RBJ’s and operated it with dedication and passion until the present time. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Eric E. Samuelson, on June 24, 1989, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. As a farmer’s wife, she knew the best way to help the boys get their work done was to keep their bellies full. Kim embraced her role as a mother with utmost devotion and cherished her three daughters, Erica, Emily, and Elisa. Family was of utmost importance to Kim and Eric, and she created lasting memories while hosting family events and holiday gatherings. Her love for her precious granddaughter, Harper, was evident through every batch of baked goods she lovingly prepared for her.
Her restaurant became a beloved gathering spot for the community. For the early rising men, it was a favorite spot for morning breakfast and meetings during which most of the world’s problems were solved. Mid-morning was reserved for the ladies who would gather to visit over coffee and rolls. Throughout the rest of the day, Kim and her dedicated team energetically served their regulars and those passing through town. Working in her restaurant was not just a career for Kim; it was her greatest passion and favorite hobby. She poured love and care into every dish she made, always striving to create memorable dining experiences for all who visited.
In addition to her dedication to her family and business, Kim was deeply committed to serving the community. She supported more organizations than could be listed here, leaving an indelible mark on each one. To sum it up succinctly, she was a large part of everything that made Crookston thrive!
Known for her genuine compassion and unwavering support for others, Kim touched many lives with her own. She consistently offered a helping hand to those in need, going above and beyond to make a positive impact. Her remarkable generosity and warm-hearted nature will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Kim’s proudest accomplishments showcased her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the Crookston business community. In 2020, she was honored with the Entrepreneur of the Year award by the Crookston Chamber of Commerce. She also received recognition for outstanding career achievements from the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs in 1988. Additionally, Kim garnered multiple wins at the annual community chili cook-offs while humbly accepting the accolades of her community of friends.
Kim is lovingly survived by Eric, her beloved husband of 34 years; their 3 daughters and sons-in-law: Erica and Aaron Macalus of Otsego, MN, Emily and Jordan Fonteyn of Crookston, MN, and Elisa and Dane Sypnieski of Baxter, MN; her pride and joy, granddaughter, Harper Joy Fonteyn and a Baby Grandson Fonteyn coming soon. She also leaves her mother, Gloria Johnson of East Grand Forks, MN; brother, Brad Johnson and his wife, D’Anne, and their son, Mason, of Oklee, MN; and from Eric’s side of the family, stepmother-in-law, Juanita Samuelson of East Grand Forks; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Mary and Jeff Volk of Bemidji, MN, Marlys and Scott Balstad of Fosston, MN, Robert and Tiffany Samuelson of Crookston, Charlotte and Chris Palmer-Samuelson of Bellingham, WA, and Paul Unruh of Mandan, ND; along with many nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. She has now been reunited in Heaven with her father, Roger Johnson; grandparents, Gullick and Elvina Thompson and Berthold and Clara Johnson; parents-in-law, Bob and Ramona Samuelson; and sister-in-law, Margaret Unruh.
Kim’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, loyal customers, and anyone who had the pleasure of being a part of her extraordinary life. ‘
A Memorial Service celebrating Kim’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 4, 2023, in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Crookston, with The Rev. Greg Isaacson officiating. Visitation will be at Trinty on Friday from 5-7:00 p.m., with a prayer service and time of sharing at 7. Both services will be live streamed by going to Kim’s obituary page at www.stenshoelhouske.com and clicking on the prompt to view. Burial will take place at a later date. Messages of condolence can be offered to Eric and Family on the Funeral Home website as well. In lieu of flowers and gifts of food to their home, the family requests that memorials be given to them, which will be distributed among organizations and charities that were dear to Kim’s heart.
