Honoring Terri Saia Lynn's Generous Spirit

My name is Patty Vanderwerf.

My family and I are creating the GoFundMe for my sister Terri Saia Lynn, who passed away on June 16, 2025 in Willmar, Minnesota.

For years, on Thanksgiving, Terri would book a venue that was big enough to hold 30+ family members for dinner, front the down payment, and have faith that we’d all pitch in enough to collectively pay the bill.

It was a system that is ripe for creating resentment and hurt feelings, but she did it for years when she could, because she loved family gatherings and she was incredibly generous with people she loved.

Terri died unexpectedly and without planning for her final expenses. So we are gathering one more time to pitch in. Proceeds will go to her cremation and memorial service.

Memorial details:

Saturday, July 12, 2025

12:00 pm- 3:00 pm

Reunion Restaurant

Upper level

501 Division Street South

Northfield, MN 55057

Open house style gathering with formal remarks at 1:00 pm. Hors d’oeuvres served. Come share Terri’s light with people who loved her.

Thank you for your generosity and we will see you July 12.