Audrey Ione Lerum

Audrey Ione Lerum, aged 95, passed away peacefully at her home on January 3, 2026. Born on July 6, 1930, in Bagley, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Paul and Laura (Gunderson) Christianson. Audrey's journey through life was characterized by her warmth, generosity, and dedication to her family and community.

Audrey graduated from Bagley High School in 1948 and went on to earn her teaching degree from East Grand Forks Teachers College. She began her career in education, teaching for one year at a country school in Urness Township, Minnesota. In addition to her teaching role, Audrey was actively involved in the local Farmers Union, making meaningful contributions to her local community.

A devoted wife, Audrey, married Wilber Lerum on November 19, 1950, in Bagley, Minnesota. Together, they made many memories living on a farm in Urness Township. She worked alongside Wilbur milking cows, doing field work, daily chores plus raising chickens and geese. Providing for her family was paramount to her, as was her love for entertaining and hosting gatherings. Friends and family will fondly remember her hot dish suppers that showcased her culinary talents.

Audrey was also deeply engaged in her faith, being a prominent member of St. Petri Lutheran Church. She took great pride in serving the church community through teaching Sunday School and contributing her efforts to the Ladies Aide. She was also a talented speaker and spoke at many events around the area.

In her leisure time, she indulged in several hobbies that brought her joy. Audrey had a passion for gardening, both vegetables and flowers. She found delight in canning fruits and vegetables, baking bread, and sharing her artistic flair through painting. Her love for animals, particularly her cats, and her enjoyment of playing Bunco were also significant aspects of her vibrant personality.

Survived by her family, Audrey leaves behind her sister-in-law Eloise Christianson, nieces and nephews, Debra Shaw, John Lerum, Karen Sauer, James Lerum, Jeff (Patricia) Lerum, Bruce (Terri) Christianson, Tracy (Kathy) Christianson, Connie Bisson, Gayle Hartmann, Alan (Ashleigh) Christianson, Glenn (Candice) Christianson, Suzy Christianson-Olson and several great, great-great, great-great-great-nieces, and nephews who cherish her memory.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Wilber Lerum, as well as her brothers, Walter Christianson and Rollie Christianson.

A visitation will be held on January 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Anderson Funeral Home, located at 659 Voyager Drive, Alexandria, MN. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel, starting at 11:00 AM. Interment will be in Fryksande Cemetery in Urness Township, MN.

Audrey Ione Lerum will forever be remembered for her kindness, zest for life, and the love she so generously shared with all who knew her. In lieu of flowers she would be honored if a donation would be made to the Fryksande cemetery association.