Linnea Natwick

Always youthful and full of fun, Linnea Natwick is cherished by her family, friends, colleagues and students for her love of life and the joy she brings to the lives of others.

Linnea was born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD, received her undergraduate degree in Deaf Education from Augustana College and her Masters degree from the University of St. Thomas in Early Childhood Special Needs.

Linnea married her love Lee Natwick in December of 1973, was blessed with a daughter in March of 1977, and loved being an involved and active grandmother for the past 18 years.

Linnea was an innovative and devoted teacher for more than 35 years who loved working with kids. She believed in an inclusive classroom, and acknowledged the potential in all of her students whether in early childhood, special education, or high school American Sign Language. Children adored her, she made learning fun, and she had an amazing gift of connection and relationship.

Linnea leaves behind a legacy of learners. Her support and encouragement moved far beyond the classroom and led many students to follow in her footsteps.

She was a recipient of the Herb Kohl Education Foundation Fellowship Award, and was a pioneer teacher for WestWing (long distance televised learning) in the state of Wisconsin. She created a model curriculum that used sign language to help all children learn and communicate which was later published by Gallaudet University in Washington D.C.

An active member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Stillwater, Linnea is remembered for her teaching and leadership in Sunday School, Confirmation, Vacation Bible School, and director of the beloved annual children's Christmas Program.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years Lee Natwick, daughter Camille and son-in-law Joe Herder, grandchildren Joey, Sasha, Tristan, Sabrina, and Tyler, sister Carol Bessler, and mother-in-law Estelle Natwick. Preceded in death by her parents Rosalie and Fred Bessler, and father-in-law Pastor Dave Natwick.