Krystel M. Metzer

Krystel Marie Metzer, age 69, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Brookstone Manor Assisted Living, surrounded by family.

Krystel Metzer was born on October 15, 1957, and left this world having loved fiercely, created beautiful things, grown more plants than anyone could reasonably keep track of, and accumulated enough decorative chickens to make one question several life choices. Krystel loved gardening, arts and crafts, and most importantly, her grandchildren.

She also had a very specific appreciation for chickens. Not actual chickens—she never owned a single one. But chicken-themed décor, knickknacks, and assorted poultry paraphernalia? ABSOLUTELY. Her collection was impressive, mildly concerning, and large enough to make one wonder if she was secretly planning to open a poultry-themed gift shop. We never quite understood how it started or why it continued, but we accepted that she loved her chickens, even if not a single one could lay an egg.

Krystel leaves behind her three children, each holding a very important position in her unofficial favorite-child rankings. First, Robert, the favorite. His position was apparently secure, and the rest of us learned to live with the blatant favoritism. Richard and his wife, Katie, were the close runners-up. A respectable position, really. Not first, but close enough to keep things interesting. And then there's Missy and her husband, Bob, who were definitely not the favorites. Missy accepted this position with grace and sarcasm. She would like it noted that she showed up anyway. Bob, however, may have earned a few extra points along the way. We won't ask questions.

She also leaves behind her six beloved grandchildren: Justyne, Hannah, Payton, Bailey, Cami, and Michael, listed strictly by age and NOT BY FAVORITE. We aren't opening that can of worms.

She is also survived by her sister, LeeAnn; her brother, Geno; dear friends, Paulette and Grandma Donna; and her bonus daughters, Jessica Bloom and Heather Niehoff, whom she unofficially adopted three years ago.

Krystel was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rosetta Deutsch, and her soulmate, Jim Metzer.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Arielle, her RN Case Manager, and the entire St. Croix Hospice team for the kindness, compassion, and care shown to Krystel and her family during her final months. We are also grateful to Brookstone Manor for three years of care and support. Krystel thought of all of you as extended family, and that meant so much.

Krystel leaves behind family and friends who loved her deeply, countless memories, and enough decorative chickens to ensure nobody will ever forget her—or have a normal conversation about poultry again. She will be deeply missed, remembered in countless stories, and forever carried in the hearts of those who loved her. May she rest peacefully, reunited with her soulmate, surrounded by love, and finally free from the earthly responsibilities of gardening, crafting, and apparently maintaining an entire imaginary chicken farm.

And if anyone needs a decorative chicken, well... we might know a family with a few to spare. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 6, 2026 from 1-3pm at Brookstone Manor, 722 N. Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, MN.

Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.