Harriet Jacobson

Harriet Jacobson
August 25, 1932 • February 1, 2025

Harriet Jacobson, 92, of Glenwood, Minnesota (formerly of Brooten) died Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Glenwood Village Care Center in Glenwood. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 10, 2025, at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Swift Falls. Visitation will be at the church, one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Rolling Forks Cemetery.
Harriet Jane Elaine Jacobson, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully February 1, 2025, in Glenwood. Born August 25, 1932, in the rural heartlands of Arctander Township, Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, Harriet's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and enduring kindness. The daughter of George and Josephine (Evenson) Otterness, Harriet's early years on the farm were filled with the simple joys of rural life. At the tender age of one, her family moved to Brooten, where she was baptized at home and later confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church. Harriet's formative years were marked by her active involvement in school activities, where she shone as a soloist, in choir and drum corp., was homecoming queen, and an engaged student leader, graduating from Brooten High School in 1950. After high school, Harriet worked for a time at the Belgrade hospital.
Harriet's heart found its match in Harold Jacobson, her high school sweetheart. The two were united in marriage on July 11, 1952, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brooten. Their love blossomed through the years, and together they nurtured a family of seven children. After Harold's service in the military, the couple returned to the family farm, where they worked side by side in both joy and hardship.
Though Harriet faced profound loss with the passing of her beloved son, Neil at age 4 in a car accident, and two grandchildren, Ryan and Shawna, along with a house fire and barn fire, her faith never wavered. She found solace and strength in her church, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, where she and Harold were active members. Harriet's melodious voice graced many events and church functions as she led the choir, sang solos, and performed duets with Harold. She also performed in a quartette with Harold and Tilmer and Lorraine Amundson. Her leadership in church extended to roles such as Sunday school teacher, council president, deacon, synod board member, and WELCA president.
Beyond her family and church, Harriet's interests were many and varied. She enjoyed bowling, reading, traveling, and was an avid fan of both the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. She was a member of the Eastern Star and Brooten American Legion Auxiliary, and as a proud grandmother, she reveled in the accomplishments of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Harriet's later years were spent in the warm embrace of Brooten's community, where she and Harold settled after selling the farm. Together, they embarked on memorable journeys to Norway and across the United States, celebrating life's beauty at every turn. The couple shared 72 years of marriage before Harold died on October 27, 2024.
Harriet is survived by her six children: Scott (Diane) of Brooten, Lorrie (Warren) Svor of Alexandria, Jeffrey (Leslie) of Benson, Brenda (Rick) Lintel of Brooten, Craig of Brooten, and Michael of Brooten; 15 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren. Her family was her pride and joy, and she poured her love into each of their lives. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Joan Otterness and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Harriet was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold, son, Neil, grandson, Ryan Svor, granddaughter, Shawna Jacobson; and siblings, Jerome (Alice) Otterness, Eleanor (Lloyd) Johnson, Allen Otterness and Linda (Larry) Kittelson.
Harriet's legacy is one of generosity, faith, and selflessness. Her involvement in church and community affairs showcased her commitment to service. Her life, marked by both joy and adversity, was a testament to her resilience and the power of faith to guide one through life's storms.
To send online condolences to the family visit:
    hoplinfuneralhome.com and click on obituaries.
Arrangements are with Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood.