Remembering Two Women Who Made Minneapolis Home: Community Farewells at Temple Israel

The Minneapolis community pauses to honor two women whose long lives of service — in education, the arts, and civic engagement — left lasting marks on the city we all share.

🎨 Greta Ann Stryker, Nearly Four Decades at the Minneapolis Institute of Art

Greta Ann Stryker, who lived in Minneapolis for most of her adult life, passed away at the age of 96, surrounded by family. She devoted nearly 40 years of her professional life to the Minneapolis Institute of Art, where she built lasting friendships with colleagues and nurtured her lifelong love of art and theater. Born in Chicago in 1930, she moved to the Twin Cities in 1952 and made the city her permanent home. A memorial service was held at Temple Israel in Minneapolis, and her family has asked that those wishing to honor her memory consider donations to the Minneapolis Institute of Art or Temple Israel. [1]

📚 Karen Nan Malver, Educator and Volunteer, Remembered for a Life of Quiet Service

Karen Nan Malver, an 82-year-old Minneapolis resident, passed away in February 2026 after a life defined by education, volunteerism, and community engagement. She earned degrees from the University of Minnesota and St. Cloud State University, and went on to teach for 20 years while also volunteering with the Mounds View School District, the League of Women Voters, and services for the blind. Her wide-ranging interests included hiking, live theater, classical music, and a deep love of books. A funeral service was held at Temple Israel on Fremont Avenue South in Minneapolis, with memorial donations directed to Temple Israel and the Communication Center of the State Services for the Blind. [4]

Sources: [1] Star Tribune · [4] Star Tribune