Solveig Ann Dirks

Solveig Ann (Ambil) Dirks, age 90, passed away September 1, 2024 at her home with her husband and daughter at her side.

Solveig was born January 29th, 1934 in the small Wisconsin town of Whitehall, which was mainly a Norwegian community. She was always proud of her Norwegian heritage, and never minded telling people how her name was pronounced. Following her graduation from Eau Claire High School, she went on to complete nurse’s training and graduated with her R.N. from Northwestern in Minneapolis.

As part of her nurse’s training, Solveig was a student nurse in Worthington, MN where she met an engaging, young man (Richard) who later became her husband in 1957. She went on to work primarily in hospital settings in Mental Health and Intensive Care units.

After retiring from nursing, Solveig worked alongside her family in their pizza restaurant and frozen pizza factory in Blue Earth, MN.

Despite the hardships she encountered in life, Solveig maintained a positive outlook, gratitude for what she had, and a deep and enduring faith. Solveig was especially thankful for her family and worked tirelessly to nurture and support them. She expressed her love and dedication by keeping a tidy, spotless, and welcoming home, and would leverage her knitting, sewing, and baking skills to make treasured gifts for her loved ones. Organization and punctuality were her superpowers, ensuring that the family moves were efficiently successful, and that the family arrived at most events on time and well prepared. This was a particular challenge with three children and a husband who were far less organized. In later years, Solveig was so grateful to be living at home with her husband and daughter and her wonderful attitude made her the heart of her family.

Solveig loved and had great appreciation for music, including classical piano which she studied for years.

Solveig is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Richard; daughters, Kim Dirks (Chris Fenne) and Karin Dirks; grandsons, Aaron, Alex, and David; great-grandson, Levi; brother, (Fred); and by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Julie; son, Mike; parents, Mildred and Andrew Ambli; brothers, Rolf, Roy, and Steve; and sister, Anne Marie Ambli in Norway.

A Memorial Service to honor and remember Solveig will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Philips Lutheran Church, Hastings with a visitation one hour prior. While the family would love to see extended family and friends in person, your presence via livestream is also appreciated.

https://1749-st-philips-lutheran-church.livecontrol.tv/e5d3cb90

Inurnment will be at the St. Philip’s Lutheran Church Columbarium, Hastings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St Philip's Lutheran Church, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice in Solveig’s name.