Liisa Lynn (Porter) Wand

Liisa Wand, age 68, of Preston, MN, died on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at her home in Preston.

Liisa was born on November 2, 1955 to Howard and Ruth (Ross) Porter in Jefferson, IA.  Liisa met the love of her life, Jeff, at an early age in 8th grade.  They started dating in high school and never looked back.  After graduation, Liisa and Jeff attended Iowa State University where Liisa graduated with a BA in Art Education.  After graduation, they decided to move to Preston, MN to start their family. 

Liisa loved to travel.  She and Jeff would plan yearly trips out to the Black Hills in South Dakota.  They also made many trips to DisneyWorld throughout the years as a family.  She also loved visiting Galena, IL and Gatlinburg, TN.  However, her happy place was always at the lake in Okoboji, surrounded by her family, with her favorite spot being on their boat.  

Liisa was a very talented quilter and enjoyed sharing this hobby with all her shop-hop friends.  She was also a very gifted artist, and even helped design the “Preston, Minnesota” sign you see as you enter town. She shared this gift as the art teacher for over 30 years, teaching children from kindergarten through high school, even serving as the Junior Class advisor for prom, until she retired. 

Most of all, Liisa was a truly devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and loved her family deeply.  She was always the first to help when her family was in need.  Liisa never missed an opportunity to see her grandchildren playing sports or performing in choir or band.  She was always so proud of their accomplishments.  When Liisa and Jeff weren’t watching their grandkids’ events, you could find them cheering on their beloved Iowa State Cyclones.  She will forever be missed.

Liisa is survived by her husband Jeff of Preston, MN; son Zachary (Rachel) Wand of Lakeville, MN and their children Aurelia and Bayla; daughter Chelsea (Trevor) Larson of Hudson, WI and their children London and Vincent; and sister Kathy (Gary) Steffeney of Waterloo, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial Mass for Liisa will be at 11 a.m., on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at St. Columban Catholic Church in Preston, MN, with Father McGrath officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the start of the service at the church from 10-11 a.m. and luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Liisa’s name to the East Okoboji Lakes Improvement Corp. PO Box 45, Spirit Lake, IA 51360 or via PayPal at www.eastokobojilakes.org

Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home of Preston is assisting the family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.