Kristi Jo Sandberg

Kristi Jo Sandberg, cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on February 02, 2026 at the age of 68. Born Kristi Jo Lunde in Rugby, North Dakota to Lyle and Merle (Lysne) Lunde, she spent her formative years with her sisters, Tami and Teri, in Bottineau, North Dakota. Her father was the Bottineau County Sheriff, and her mother was a teacher; for the rest of her life, Kristi was immensely proud of both her parents’ careers—teaching being her own chosen profession, and her support of law enforcement becoming a pillar of her adulthood. She also fiercely loved her home state, proudly promoting and defending it whenever the opportunity presented itself. After receiving her degree in Business Education from NDSU’s Bottineau Branch and Moorhead State University, Kristi moved to Aitkin, where she became a prominent member of the community.  It was there that she met Steven (Steve) Sandberg, and they married in October of 1987. She made her home there with him—quite literally overseeing Steve, his father, Dave, and her father, Lyle, as they built the Sandberg’s lovely house together. In their marriage, they constructed an equally beautiful life that included supporting their friends, being active members of their church, and becoming parents to their beloved daughter, Cassaundra (Cassie), in 1996.  For 35 years, Kristi served Aitkin High School as a business teacher; she embraced her role as a mentor, advocate, and cheerleader for every student. During this time, Kristi championed education, served on the board for Dollars for Scholars, and continually advised and encouraged students and new teachers. After such a long and accomplished career, her retirement from the district in 2014 forever left a hole in the fabric of the school.  Undoubtedly influenced by her father’s experience as Bottineau County Sheriff and Steve’s service as an Investigator for the Aitkin County Sheriff’s Department, Kristi was a strong advocate for supporting local law enforcement—particularly after Steve’s untimely death while on duty in 2015.  Kristi was well known for her love of crafting, beautifying every space around her. She enjoyed nature and maintained a yard adorned with bright flowers. That yard was often occupied by a Golden Retriever, a breed adored by the Sandberg family. She especially loved: visiting her friends and family; spending time with her sisters, nieces, nephews, and their children; encouraging Cassie in all her endeavors—including Cassie’s own teaching career; and doting on her grand-dog, Marty.  It is difficult to distill Kristi’s essence into a few words, but one prevailing theme comes to mind: selflessness. She always considered others before herself, and continually went above and beyond to help her loved ones. When speaking to Kristi, her focused attention made you feel as if you were the only person in existence.  Generations of community members, teachers, and students were shaped by her loving attention and kindness. Kristi was a passionate friend, teacher, and guiding light for those that were lucky enough to know her. Kristi was preceded in death by: her husband, Steve; father and mother, Lyle and Merle; father- and mother-in-law, Dave and Lois Sandberg; and brother-in-law, Rob Sandberg.

She is survived by: her daughter, Cassie; sisters, Tami (Dean) Milbrath and Teri Lunde (Jeff Doggett); sisters- and brothers-in-law, Wendy Sandberg, Brian (Judy) Sandberg; nieces and nephews: Lainey Sandberg, Danny (Sara) Sandberg, Eric Sandberg, Lynnsey Sandberg, Jenna (Travis) Nelson, Calli (Daniel) Kraak, Stephanie (Jesse) Kittleson, Heather (Matthew) Drader; as well as many other special relatives and friends who mourn her passing.

The funeral service to celebrate Kristi’s life will be held on Saturday, February 14 at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Aitkin, with Pastor Mark Marston officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13 from 5–7 p.m., with a prayer service beginning at 7 p.m. at the church; visitation will also be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. A private family burial will occur at Bennettville Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Aitkin. To leave a message of condolence, please visit Kristi’s obituary page at www.srtfuneral.com.

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