Tom and Helen (Christiansen) Differt

Thomas David Differt passed away on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at the CentraCare Long-Term Care facility in Long Prairie, Minnesota. His wife, Helen Beatrice (Christiansen) Differt, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023, at the CentraCare Long Term Care facility in Long Prairie, Minnesota. They were married on December 31, 1953, in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Thomas, the eldest of six children, was born on January 1, 1932, in Jordan, Minnesota to Clarence and Edith Differt. Thomas was confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Long Prairie, Minnesota.  He obtained an undergraduate degree from St. Cloud State University and a Juris Doctor from the William Mitchell College of Law. Before moving to Arizona, he practiced law in southern Minnesota. In retirement, he returned to Long Prairie, Minnesota with his wife Helen. Thomas is survived by two children (Cynthia and David), two grandchildren (Harper and Landon), and four siblings, (Douglas, Marilyn, Lois, and Nancy). He was preceded in death by his parents and one sibling (Anita).

Helen, the eldest of three children, was born on October 31, 1932, in Long Prairie, Minnesota to Frederick and Ethel Christiansen.  Helen was baptized at Reynolds Church.  She obtained an undergraduate degree from St. Cloud State University. Later in life, she completed a master’s degree in education at Arizona State University. Before moving to Arizona, she taught at the primary level for many years. She was a passionate, proud, and involved educator. In retirement, she returned to Long Prairie, Minnesota with her husband Thomas.  Helen is survived by two children (Cynthia and David), two grandchildren (Harper and Landon), and one sibling (Louella). She was preceded in death by her parents and one sibling (Ardean).

A memorial service will be held later this year.

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