Alice Joy (Christenson) Lapp

Live stream for Alice's service is

https://youtube.com/live/K7KXWPGanuc?feature=share

Alice Joy Lapp (known to most as AJ), 92, of Bemidji, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She lived a long life filled with cherished memories, a deep love for her family and friends, and a generous spirit that touched the lives of many.

Born on February 12, 1932, in Concordia, Kansas to Arthur and Francis (Samson) Christensen, Alice was a happy baby who loved being outside. Shortly after her birth, Alice’s family moved to Pinewood, MN where they purchased Balm Lake Resort. Alice spent her childhood years at the resort helping to run it as a fishing guide, housekeeper, desk clerk and more. She often fondly recounted teaching her husband how to fish, a skill she mastered at a young age from her experience on the resort.

After graduating from Aggie Northwest School in Crookston, MN, in 1950, and Agricultural College in 1954, Alice married Thomas Richard Lapp on April 2nd, 1955, at First Lutheran Church in Bemidji. She briefly taught at Bemidji Elementary Schools before devoting her time to raising her four children. Alice's commitment to education led her back to teaching as a long-term substitute teacher for many years.

Alice was a long-time member of First Lutheran Church and was actively involved in the community through her participation in the Lions Club, Bemidji Curling Club, and Homemakers Club. She found joy in various hobbies, including golfing, fishing, and curling. You could often find her at home watching soap operas while sewing, knitting, or crocheting something she would inevitably find a home for. Alice's talent for knitting mittens for the church's mitten tree was a testament to her compassionate nature. Alice’s door was always open for family and friends, and you better believe her cookie jar was always full of homemade desserts to share.

Alice's greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored. She rarely missed their various activities, from hockey games to dance recitals and curling bonspiels to show choir performances, always cheering them on with unwavering support.

Alice is survived by her children: Sheila Skretvedt Lapp, James (Carsha) Lapp, Cynthia (Kevin) Fetsch, and Peter Lapp; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and her best friend, Ike Floura. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; her parents; her sister, Dorothy Boe; and her son, David Lapp.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at First Lutheran Church, Bemidji, with Pastor Kayla Billings officiating. Family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Alice's beloved grandchildren will serve as urn bearers, honoring her memory with love and respect.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alice Joy (Christenson) Lapp, please visit our floral store.