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Theresa Joyce Griebler, age 89, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of faith, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.
Theresa was born on March 3, 1937, in Bangor, Maine, to Pasquale and Lily (Bilson) Caruso. She grew up in a large family that helped shape the resilience, determination, and strong work ethic that defined her throughout her life.
She proudly served her country as a Medical Technician in the United States Air Force, dedicating herself to caring for others. She and Jim later made their home in Little Canada, Minnesota, where they lived for more than 40 years. She was a longtime, faithful parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church.
Theresa believed in working hard and doing things the right way. She was known for her direct communication-people always knew where they stood with her-but behind that honesty was a caring heart. She had a remarkable ability to remember people's names, making friends, neighbors, and even new acquaintances feel recognized and valued.
She also knew how to enjoy life. Theresa loved gathering with friends for cards and was a treasured member of a longtime card club made up of women from St. John's. She was an enthusiastic bingo player who always looked forward to a trip to the casino. She was also proudly left-handed and never missed an opportunity to point it out with a smile. A devoted Minnesota sports fan, she especially loved basketball and faithfully followed the Twins, Lynx, Timberwolves, and Vikings. Many family members and friends will remember Theresa's playful spirit during the holidays. Every Halloween she delighted in dressing as a witch, and at Christmas she became one of everyone's favorite elves. She did this up until last Christmas and Halloween.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James John Griebler; her parents, Pasquale and Lillie Caruso; and all 11 of her siblings, Frank, Mary, Elizabeth, Helen, Marguerite, Bill, Lillie, Jeannette, Richard, Marlene, and Jack.
Theresa is lovingly survived by her children, Mary Jane (Jim) Horner, John (Debbie) Griebler, and Tom (Anne) Griebler; her six cherished grandchildren, Drew, Jimmy, Austin, Abbey, Ally, and Anthony; eight beloved great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Theresa will be remembered for her unwavering work ethic, her honesty, her steadfast faith, and her deep love for family and friends. She believed in working hard, speaking honestly, and treating people as though they mattered. Her legacy of strength, loyalty, kindness, and caring will live on through the many lives she touched. Though she will be greatly missed, the memories she created and the example she set will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her forever.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 3pm - 7pm at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear, MN. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Friday, August 14, 2026, 11am at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 380 Little Canada Rd. E., Little Canada, MN with a visitation one hour prior.
Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center - White Bear
Saint John the Evangelist - Little Canada
Saint John the Evangelist - Little Canada
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