Vija Nervick

Vija Nervick passed away on January 30, 2020 after a long and brave battle with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones at her home in Lakeside.

Vija was born in Riga, Latvia and moved to Kenwood with her parents shortly following World War II. Her father, Eduards Putnins, was a Lutheran minister, and it was at Kenwood Lutheran where she met the love of her life, Fred Nervick (in fact, Vija’s father presided at their wedding). Vija and Fred were married for 60 wonderful years, and have lived to support their children, Charles, Peter and Mara, and one another. Whether attending events for cheerleading, dance, basketball, golf, or baseball, if it was pursued by her children it became equally important to Vija.

Vija was a unique and special person, and even managed to pursue her passion for gardening during her almost two years in hospice. She was loved by a wide circle of very close friends and was always kind and thoughtful of others. Her caregivers at St. Luke’s Hospice were especially important to Vija and became like family to her. She is survived by her husband Fred, two sisters, her three children and a wonderful group of grandchildren, all of whom will miss her dearly.

A memorial for family and friends will be held in the spring.  Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E. 2nd St. Duluth, MN 55805.  218-727-3555.