Kristen Robertson-Smith

She is survived by her husband, John; son, Tyler and his wife Rose; daughter, Alice; three grandchildren, Roma, Mars, and Ozzy; and her siblings, Lynn, Jane, Bill, and Ann.

Kris grew up in the small rural town of Warren, amid the rolling forested hills of north western Pennsylvania where she acquired her enduring love of nature. Coming to Minneapolis in search of employment in 1984, she began working for Hennepin County at a small vocational service program for the mentally ill. There, she met her husband-to-be, married in 1986 and stayed until her retirement as program supervisor.

Kris loved the out-of-doors and her family frequented numerous parks, camping, hiking, and soaking in the sights, sounds, and aromas. Her favorite location was along the North Shore and particularly Temperance River. Excursions into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area were special experiences, which she cherished deeply. In her retirement, she self-taught herself knitting, often while watching movies on Netflix! From scarfs to mittens to sweaters she became quite skilled. She was an avid gardener and was most happy when her hands were in the dirt. One of her most striking characteristics was her love of literature. She was a voracious reader and a devoted library volunteer.

Kris was very humble, soft-spoken, and shy. It would be understandable to initially underestimate her. However, after a time in her presence, a quiet strength emerged reflecting a keen intellect and incredible insight into human nature. She always seemed to know the right/thing to do. When she shared her insights, it would always be in a kind and compassionate manner. People came to trust and invite her counsel. One could have no better friend.

Above all else Kris truly cherished time with family. Her boundless love, unsurpassed generosity, and profound caring was evident in all she did. She went to extraordinary lengths to organize and assure holiday family get-togethers. She was an incredible cook and baker, able to create deliciously nutritious meals from even the simplest (or most challenging) ingredients and her pie crust was envied by all. Her family famous Cowboy Cookies were in constant and equal demand from adults to grandchildren. She gave selflessly, listened intently, and advised wisely.

Kris donated her body to the University of Minnesota’s Anatomy Bequest Program.

In lieu of a memorial service, and in the spirit of keeping her memory alive and bettering the world, the family suggests, when faced with a dilemma, ask yourself, “What would Kris do?”

Please consider contributing to Ramsey County Library Friends (formerly Friends of the Ramsey County Libraries) at 4560 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55426. She’d love it!