Obituary of Hessie A. Kjekstad

Hessie A. Kjekstad, age 84, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville. Over her 84 years, Hessie left behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, joy, and laughter. Her unwavering love for her family, along with the memories she created, will continue to warm the hearts of all who knew her.

Born in French Harbour, Roatán, Honduras, to the late Maude (Jones) and James Arch, Hessie was one of three children. As a young girl, her family moved to Miami, Florida, where she graduated from Miami Senior High School in 1958. It was in Miami where Hessie met the love of her life, Stanley Kjekstad, while serving as a bridesmaid at her best friend’s wedding; their connection was immediate. At the time, Stanley was on active duty in the Air Force, their courtship, marked by daily letters, grew into a lifelong love story that culminated in their marriage on November 15, 1958. Their 66 years of shared adventures and experiences took them across the world — from Turkey, to Texas, the Philippines, South Carolina, Ohio, Florida, and New York, as Stanley served his country for 28 years in the U.S. Air Force.

In 1979, Hessie and Stanley found their forever home in Mount Arlington, NJ, where they built a life filled with love, warmth, and community. They also enjoyed frequent trips to Norway, where Hessie cherished visiting family and staying in their Grimstad home.

Hessie had a fulfilling 30-year career as a telephone operator, working with AT&T, Bell Atlantic, and later Verizon, from which she retired. Her remarkable work ethic was matched only by her generous spirit. She was an active member of the Pioneer Club, Association of Belltel Retirees, The Lions Clubs, Sons of Norway, and Nor-Bu Lodge in Lake Telemark, New Jersey.

A devoted member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Hessie contributed greatly to her faith community. She sang in the church choir and was an active participant in the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELCA). She was affectionately known as “The Sunshine Lady,” she wrote letters and cards to those who were sick or in need, offering her support and care. She was always ready to lend her time and talents to help others.

Above all, Hessie’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She was a loyal and loving wife, a devoted mother, a doting grandmother, great-grandmother, and a cherished friend. Her warmth, kindness, and generosity knew no bounds, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

In addition to her beloved husband Stanley, Hessie is survived by her children: Victoria Kjekstad of Springfield, VA; Steven Kjekstad (Robin Murray) of Crystal River, FL; and Diann (Michael) Cunningham of Homosassa, FL. Her grandchildren, Kristine (Hunter) Schrak, Eric (Tracey) Kjekstad, Samantha Cunningham, and Christopher Cunningham, were the light of her life, as were her treasured great-grandchildren: Fox Schrak, Fiona Schrak, and Savannah Kjekstad.

She is also survived by her loving sister, Wilvia Galbraith, brother-in-law, Earl (Siri) Kjekstad, extended family members Chris (Alicia) Kovar and Brendan, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Hessie is reunited in Heaven with her parents, her brother, Edward Arch, and her daughter-in-law, Kelley Kjekstad. While her physical presence will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.

A Memorial Service to honor Hessie’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 508 Green Pond Road, Rockaway Township, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Hessie’s honor may be made to Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELCA) aka The Women's Group at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Rockaway by way of www.inmemof.org.

Hessie’s life was a testament to quiet strength, deep love, and an enduring commitment to family and community. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the beautiful memories she leaves behind. We invite all who knew her to share their stories, memories, or tributes at normandean.com. Her legacy will forever be cherished, and her light will shine brightly for all eternity. We will treasure her memory always.