Leni Marie Jorstad was born on July 11th, 2017 at CHI St Alexius in Williston, ND. She heartbreakingly passed away at Sanford Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in Fargo, ND on August 24th, 2026, at 9 years old.

Leni is the daughter of Jamie and Nicole (Gustafson) Jorstad. Her country home is located outside of McGregor, ND.

Leni’s light came into the world on July 11th, 2017. She came at a time her parents were grieving a loss and infertility. Her name means “light” and she was every bit of it. Their sunshine baby.

She was the sweetest baby that grew into the best big sister when her built in best friend was born in 2020. Her baby sister, Arlowe James.

They had a bond that is irreplaceable.

She continued her title of “world’s best big sister” when they welcomed her baby brother in 2023. Her “my handsome man”, Wylee Scott.

Her siblings looked to her for guidance, love and fun in every stage of their lives.

Their family feels broken within the loss of her.

She attended Tioga Central Elementary School. There, she was adored by all, so friendly, happy and full of a love for school. Her teachers and bus drivers became her daytime family as special bonds occurred so naturally for her.

She never got to start her 4th grade year as she spent the final 80 days of her life in Sanford PICU, where she also celebrated her 9th birthday.

Her beautiful soul loved her family and all time spent together. She wore a beaded bracelet daily that said “FAMILY”. Something her mom continues to cherish for her.

She enjoyed golf cart rides and nature drives at home. She loved camping and the chosen camping family she got to grow up with. Filling days with bike rides and beach days. Her and her siblings looked forward to hotel stay vacations including swimming and waterslides. Their dad was always with them making sure their childhood is filled with fun.

She loved Miss Ashley’s dance class with her bestie EvEv. The spunkiest girl dancing always from her heart.

She loved her “little orange dog”, Georgie.

She wished for a hamster and slime for her 9th birthday. Her home is set up waiting for a hamster in hopes she’d be coming home to celebrate again.

She enjoyed playing outside on her playground her dad built her. Loved her babydolls, anything girlie and her favorite color, pink.

She wanted to grow up, become a teacher and a singer. A heart and voice made for each dream.

She is survived by her parents; Jamie and Nicole Jorstad, her siblings; Arlowe and Wylee Jorstad, Great grandma; Della Soiseth, Granny; Debbie Jorstad, Papa; Brian (Lisa Smith) Gustafson, Grandmother; Denise (Rick Shuey) Gustafson, Uncle, Auntie and Godparents; Steven and Christine Gustafson, Cousins; Bode and Crosby Gustafson, Uncle; Justin Jorstad, Cousins; Michael, Nicholas and Rebecca Ann Jorstad, Uncle; Jeremy (Robin) Jorstad, Auntie Jess; Jessica Jorstad, Uncle; Jordan Jorstad and numerous other family, friends and community members. All who loved her.

She is proceeded in death by, her “Grandma Great”; Bernice Gustafson, Grandfather; Marlyn Jorstad, Great Grandfather; James Soiseth, Honorary Great Grandfather; Leon Moe, Great Aunt; Jayme Jorstad and many other family members lost before her time.

Don’t you ever ever, I mean ever, forget how awesome you are!

-Leni

We love you. Sweet dreams. Have a good rest. We are so proud of you sweetness.

Love, Mama and Dada

Memorial Contribution

Thank You