Dorothea Frieda Jirsa, an esteemed educator and musician, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on January 25, 2026, at the age of 83 in Oakdale, Minnesota. Her contributions to music education and her community have left a lasting impact.
Jirsa dedicated nearly four decades of her life to teaching language arts and music at School District 622. Her passion for music extended beyond the classroom; she was also an active member of the music program at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where she inspired countless students and congregants alike. Her legacy as a musician and educator is remembered fondly by those who had the privilege to know her.
She is survived by her husband, Paul Jirsa, and their two children, Phillip Jirsa (married to Susan Haller) and Christine Jirsa (married to Brian Aamot). Jirsa also leaves behind her brothers, Gerard Bents (married to Marcy) and Ralph Bents (married to Carol), as well as many friends and former students who will cherish her memory.
Memorial Services Scheduled
Visitation for Dorothea Jirsa will take place on February 20, 2026, from 17:00 to 19:00 at Sandberg Funeral Home, located at 2593 E. 7th Ave., North St. Paul, MN 55109. A memorial service is set for the following day, February 21, at 11:00, with an hour of visitation starting at 10:00 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, situated at 2499 Helen St. N, North St. Paul, MN 55109.
Her family encourages all those whose lives she touched to join them in celebrating her remarkable life and contributions to the community. Dorothea Jirsa will be remembered not only for her artistic talents but also for the warmth and kindness she shared with everyone around her.
