Obituary: Ardis Joan (Eide) Jons

Ardis Joan "Bestemor" (Eide) Jons, born on June 9, 1933, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, died on Dec. 18, 2023, in Tucson, Arizona. The younger daughter of John and Aagot Eide, she grew up on the family farm near Baltic. A third-generation Norwegian immigrant, she valued hard work, equity, and kindness. This also meant she had a weakness for lefse, krumkake and, yes, even lutefisk. But you couldn't keep her down on the farm. Despite her parents' misgivings, she was off to the five-year R.N. program at Augustana, where she found her true calling in nursing.

After marrying Cecil Jons in 1956, they moved to Tucson before settling in Cloquet to raise a family and work. Upon retiring they traveled extensively, and eventually returned to their sunny home in Tucson.

Her heart was filled with love for family and community. Being an extremely talented nurse, she always cared for others. Generations of families benefited from the immunization program and preschool screening she managed for the school system. Ardis had a happy heart, the epitome of warmth and grace throughout her life. A player of the piano, guitar and violin, she always had a song in her heart. She was always up for a game or jigsaw puzzle, and was a keen bridge partner. Family card games often erupted into joyous chaos. Ardis possessed the extraordinary gift of continually welcoming new friends into her circle, while cherishing relationships that stood the test of time. Late in life, Ardis developed dementia but found a way to not suffer unnecessarily. Her life became one surprise party after another. Her final chapter was spent at the Watermark community in Oro Valley, Arizona. The staff and residents loved her very much. She was known for her boundless generosity, unwavering grace, and undeniably gentle spirit. Ardis touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ardis was preceded in death by her husband and partner in adventure, Cecil Jons. She is survived by her four equally (she would say) beloved children: Mark (Catherine) Jons, Kim Jons, Amy (Richard) Saccoccia, and Pamela (Mike Cohen) Jons; six grandchildren, Freyja, Elliott, Erica, Piper, Matthew and Elizabeth; and three great-grandchildren, Kaden, Lena and Annie, each an embodiment of her loving spirit.

Ardis stayed close with her many cousins, sisters-in-law, and extended family. They were a source of joy and comfort throughout her life.

Her legacy of compassion and affection continues to illuminate the lives of those she left behind.

In the midst of our collective sorrow, let us celebrate the beautiful life, enduring love, and cherished memories of Ardis. May her spirit find eternal peace, and may her light continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Sweet dreams, Honey Lamb.

In lieu of gifts, please consider a gift to the Cloquet Educational Foundation in her honor.

Interment at 10 a.m. on May 25 at West Nidaros Church, Crooks South Dakota, followed by a gathering at 12 p.m. at the Eide/Dalrymple Gallery in Sioux Falls.