Obituary of Julie Eileen Eastman

Julie Eileen Eastman

May 1, 1945 – July 6, 2022

Julie Eileen Dunn was born on May 1st, 1945, in Grand Forks, ND to parents James Lowell Dunn and Fern Eileen (Elliott) Dunn. She graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1963 and earned her Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) Degree from the Bethesda School of Nursing in 1964, located in Crookston MN.

On July 30th, 1966, Julie married her soulmate, James Ray Eastman. Together they had two children and celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary before Jim’s passing in 2016. Julie worked in several hospitals and clinics during her tenure as a nurse over the years.

Julie was beyond devoted to her children and grandchildren. She always acted with a kind heart, caring spirit and in a generous way that made you love her instantly. Julie enjoyed knitting, crafting, puzzles and gardening. She attended as many of her grandchildren’s activities as she could, with a special spot in her heart for their hockey games. Her grandchildren and others affectionally referred to Julie as GMA-J.

Later in life, Julie and Jim would spend Spring, Summer and Fall at their lake place in Hackensack MN, getting lost in her garden of flowers, rock beds, bird houses and frog decorations all day, every day. They were blessed to be frequently accompanied by her brother and his wife, her gambling buddy.

After Jim’s passing, Julie found friendship and love with her caring family, treasured friends and an exceptional group of Shakopee Community Center ladies cherishing every moment through texts, talks and outings.

She was preceded in death by her parents James and Fern Dunn, brother James E. Dunn, husband James R. Eastman and granddaughter Megan Eastman.

Julie is survived by her brother Dennis (Kathy) Dunn, son Chuck (Jen) Eastman, daughter Kim Crooks, grandchildren Abby, Brianna, Charlie and Angelica.

In honor of Julie’s wishes, immediate family will celebrate Julie in a private observance.