Victoria Jane Hallstrom

Victoria Jane Hallstrom, also known as Vickie, left this world on July 27, 2024, at the age of 76. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend and a beloved teacher turned principal who dedicated 35 years of her life to education. Her impact on the lives of her family and friends plus countless students and colleagues will be cherished forever.

Vickie was born on March 23, 1948, to Anton and Hilda Baker in Hallock, MN. She is survived by her loving family: Husband Paul Hallstrom; her daughter Tina Hernandez and son-in-law Gil, with grandsons Jacques and Max; daughter Jennifer Benoit and son-in-law Daniel, with grandson August, and granddaughter Lucy; her son Kjell Hallstrom and daughter-in-law Kristin, with grandson Oliver, and granddaughters Addison and Isabel; along with her brothers Jim and Ken Baker and her nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved sister, Jeanette Johnson.

Throughout her life, Vickie had a passion for creating memories with her family. She adored taking her grandkids on adventures to various places like Disney World in Florida, the beach in California and their favorite aquarium in Oregon. The beach especially held a special place in her heart, where she spent countless weekends basking in the sun with her loved ones. Vickie also loved a good road trip and would often strike off alone for new adventures.

Vickie’s faith in Christ was a key cornerstone in her life and she boldly shared her faith. In 1970, Paul had an overseas assignment in the military so Vickie accepted a position in the Lutheran church in Nome, Alaska for the year. As expected, Vickie developed many long lasting friendships amongst the Inuit community through her work in Nome. She shared her Alaskan experiences and the Alaskan native community’s traditions with classroom lessons and lectures at all of her schools and school districts. 

Vickie's radiant smile was a source of joy for all who knew her. She had a knack for making everyone feel welcomed and loved. Her warm personality shone through in every interaction, leaving a lasting impression on those she encountered.

Vickie had a lasting impact on a number of students over the years, but also was devoted to providing guidance and resources to help teachers teach math and reading. Her legacy in the form of a collection of resources and supplies has graciously been passed on to a new generation of educators.

Apart from her career in education, Vickie enjoyed creating silk flower arrangement plus shopping and was known for being a thoughtful gift-giver. In retirement she was excited to host big family gatherings using the specially themed plates and glasses she had collected over the years. Vickie was a wonderful cook, making every meal shared with her a memorable experience.

One of Vickie's proudest accomplishments was instilling a love for books in her grandkids from a young age. She believed in the power of education and strived to nurture young minds both at work and at home. The children's books she collected were inscribed with her name and gifted to her grandkids and friends. 

In their 55 years of marriage Vickie and Paul’s dedication to each other has served as an inspiration to many. Even in the very latest stages of Alzheimer's, Vickie still recognized Paul. They both looked forward to their daily visits and valued time they could spend together. Their beautiful love story kept growing and was witnessed by those who cared for her each day. 

Victoria Jane Hallstrom's legacy of kindness, warmth, and dedication will continue to live on through the memories she created with those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered for the light she brought into the lives of others. May she rest in peace.

Please consider a donation in Vickie's honor to the Alzheimer's Association.