Jodi Lee (Gandrud) Ballandby

Jodi Lee (Gandrud) Ballandby, the daughter of Robert and Nancy (Olson) Gandrud was born on September, 26 1968, in Robbinsdale MN. Jodi spent her childhood in Golden Valley, MN where she attended Calvary Lutheran Church and Robbinsdale Armstrong high school, graduating in 1987.  Jodi then traveled to St. Peter for college, graduating with honors from Gustavus Adolphus in 1991, with a degree in Criminal Justice/Psychology. After the birth of her two sons, Joe and Derek, and while working, Jodi decided to further her education and received her teaching license in special education.  Jodi taught and guided students in multiple school districts including Fergus Falls, Willmar, and most recently at the Alexandria Area High School (AAHS).

Jodi was united in marriage to Chad Ballandby on September, 28 1991, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Golden Valley, MN. Jodi and Chad most recently made their home at their family farm, located south of Glenwood, MN.

Jodi was passionate about her work in education. During her time at AAHS she was involved with the Gay Straight Alliance and was an advocate for all students.

Jodi recently began volunteering at the Pope County Museum, where she worked on historical projects and displays. Jodi found great joy and solace in tending her home garden with her husband Chad and her dad, Bob.  Jodi loved the whole gardening process from weeding to planting but especially giving out the rewards of her hard work. Jodi was happiest when she was surrounded by family and friends at home, at the lake, or on the fishing boat with her dad.

Jodi is survived by her husband Chad of Glenwood; their two sons, Joe (Danielle) of St. Paul, and Derek (John) of Portland, OR; her parents, Bob and Nancy Gandrud of Glenwood; two sisters, Jill (Mark) Peterson of Bothell, WA, and Janis (Glenn) Lickness of Stillwater; her mother-in-law, Ruth Maschka of  Albert Lea; five sisters-in-law, Julie (Dave) Mumuagh of Lakewood, CO, Lisa (Dan) Medd of Albert Lea,  Sandi (Tim) Hassing of Owatonna,  Sheila (Al) Helgerson of Albert Lea, and  Heidi (Myron) Lewis of Lakewood, CO; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, special friends and co-workers.

Jodi was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Joe and Ethel Gandrud; maternal grandparents, Earl and Esther Olson; father-in-law, Glen Ballandby; uncle, Steve Olson; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Randee and Kim Ballandby; niece,  Jeni Helgerson; nephews, Josh and Wyatt Medd,  and niece, Katie Medd.

Jodi will be remembered for her work creating the perfect family gatherings, watching the birds, her annual cross-stitched Santa creations, crazy socks, and most of all her calm spirit, bubbly personality, and infectious smile.

Jodi, we can’t wait to see you dance again.

Memorials may be directed to the Pope County Museum and Historical Society, 809 South State Hwy 104, Glenwood, MN 56334.

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