Leolyn Vik

Leolyn Iris Vik "Lee", 88 of Rochester, passed away Thursday, October 31, 2019 at The Homestead. Lee was born December 7, 1930 in Charles City, IA to Leo and Eldora (Krahnke) Buckley. She was a graduate of Grand Rapids High School. Lee went on to work for J.C. Penney after graduation, and quickly moved up the ladder, working in accounting because of her dedicated, hardworking and honest attitude. She married Richard Vik in 1957 and they lived in Hibbing until 1969. After a short visit in Burnsville, Lee and family moved to Duluth, where she started working in a doctor's office. Lee was an incredible crafter from knitting and crocheting numerous blankets, to her fantastic needlepoint and embroidered pillowcases. Lee also was an accomplished photographer and she loved taking pictures of flowers, birds and family activities. She was generous with her time and resources, always helping and nurturing those in need. Lee was a stoic but loving woman, was protective of her family and was a devoted wife and mother. She was meticulous with not only her home but with her dress and appearance, always dressed to the nines. Above all, Lee was extremely proud of her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Michael (Roxie) Vik of Rochester, Jayne (Roger) Fladung of Colorado Springs, CO, Karen (Thomas) Mattheisen of Delano, MN, Rachael (Timothy) Gibson of Duluth, MN; son-in-law, David Walz of St. Joseph, MN; 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Lee is also survived by her brothers, Patrick Buckley and Dennis (MaryAnn) Buckley and sister, Carol (Frank) Zbreski. Lee was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; daughter, Lisa; granddaughter, Brandi; brother, Jack and sister, Ruth Ann. A celebration of Lee's life will be private with inurnment next spring at Itasca Cemetery, Grand Rapids, MN. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Vik family; to share a special message or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com