Elizabeth Bruggeman

Elizabeth Mary Bruggeman, 68, of Erskine, MN, passed away at her home on Lake Sarah, Saturday morning, March 26, 2022, with family at her side.

Beth was born in Grand Forks, ND on April 25, 1953.  She was the eldest of four children from the marriage of Tom and Margaret (Degelder) Gregoire. While growing up in East Grand Forks, MN she was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and later graduated from Sacred Heart High School as a member of the Class of 1971. She went on to attend Aakers Business College in Grand Forks earning a secretarial certificate.  She continued her training when she went on to study at Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Moorhead, MN where she obtained a certificate in programming and data entry.  Soon after, she put to use her newly gained knowledge and began employment at Bridgeman Creamery in Grand Forks. Several years later, Beth started working in the office of the East Grand Forks American Crystal Sugar Company. It was there she met her future husband, Michael Kenneth Bruggeman.  Beth and Mike were soon united in marriage on April 29, 1983 in Crookston, MN.  While living in Grand Forks, the couple began building a cabin on Lake Sarah, near Erskine. They soon realized that they wanted this cabin to become their home and their dream became reality when they made the move in 1995.

While Mike transferred to the American Crystal plant in Crookston, Beth devoted herself to her children and her new home. She happily became the #1 fan of her kids and their activities in school and never missed a baseball, basketball, or football game. While her life centered around her family, she also found time for her favorite activities which included knitting, crocheting, cooking, and reading. Beth loved to travel and went on what she’d like to call her ‘girl’ trips to various locations across the United States.  Traveling still further from home, Beth made many memories when she ventured abroad to visit Belgium, Amsterdam, and other European countries.

To many, Beth became the figure of Mom, Sister, and Grandmother as she so effortlessly loved and cared for all as if they were her own family.  Beth always made time to listen and love those around her regardless of the struggles she may have been under.  Her later years were complicated by health issues but she never let that get the best of her as she continued to enjoy life with her family and friends while continuing to rely on her faith to give her strength.

Beth is survived by her beloved husband of 38 years, Mike; four children and three grandchildren: Andrew and (Carla) Bruggeman of Fitchburg, WI and their daughter, Clara Eileen; Joseph Bruggeman of Erskine, MN; Jasen and Stephine Bruggeman and their children, Amelia and Jasen Jr of East Bethel, MN; and Erin Bruggeman of Coon Rapids, MN. She also leaves three siblings: Doug (Jill) Gregoire of Mentor, MN; Mickey (Pete) MacDonald of Surprise, AZ; and Joan (Scott) Enright of East Grand Forks, MN and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Pat (Susan) Bruggeman of Crookston, Paul (Sharon) Bruggeman of Grand Forks, Todd (Deann) Bruggeman of Crookston, and Lee Perry of St. Louis, MO; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Beth was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Margaret Gregoire; parents-in-law, Kenneth and Lois Bruggeman; and sister-in-law, Pam Perry. May God bless the memory of Elizabeth Mary Bruggeman.

The Memorial Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Beth’s life will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, June 18, 2022, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Mentor, MN. Visitation with the family will be from 10-11:00am. A family graveside service will take place at St. Lawrence Cemetery.

Messages of condolence may be given to Mike and Family at www.stenshoelhouske.com