Obituary of Pamela Sue Ferguson

Pamela Sue (Tuinstra) Ferguson, age 73, died Sunday, April 21st, 2024 peacefully surrounded by family at home.

Pamela Sue Tuinstra was born March 6, 1951, to Donald Lee and Erma Mae (DeJong) Tuinstra in Oskaloosa, Iowa.  The family moved from Sully to Grinnell in 1956 when Don bought the John Deere store in Grinnell.  

While growing up, Pam excelled in piano, saxophone, baton twirling, swimming, and water skiing.  Pam was baptized in St. Andrews Lutheran Church and confirmed in St. John’s Lutheran Church.  Pam graduated from Grinnell Iowa High School in 1969.

Growing up, Pam greatly treasured her time with her sister Sandra and brother Michael.  Recently, she fondly recalled their road trips, mushroom hunting, working in their fathers John Deere store, sweet corn processing, Friday night pizza nights from Pagliai’s, and getting dressed up to go to the Latin King in Des Moines.  Later, as adults, she enjoyed time with them in Okoboji at Light House Point and family Thanksgiving gatherings.  She loved how they were all three into their roots and genealogy.  She spoke often of how appreciative she was for their detailed research and documentation. 

Pam received an AA degree from Stephens College in Columbia MO (‘74); a BA from University of Nothern Iowa (‘78); and a Masters and Educational Specialist Degrees in Educational Technology Integration from Walden University (‘07 & ‘12).  She practiced her belief that “the key to a vital life is an eagerness to learn.”

Pam had a long teaching career.  She taught in Wall Lake View Auburn (WLVA) (1978-1994), Ottumwa (1997-2001), Grinnell (2001-2003), SouthEast Polk (2003-2013), Pella (2013-2015, and Newton (2017-2018).  She taught kindergarten through 8th grade, as well as language arts, computer technology, and library skills.  She also served as an area director for the American Cancer Society (1993-1996).

William Roy Ferguson and Pamela were married May of 1979.  During their time in Lake View, they enjoyed opening up a Consignment Craft store in their home with their friends.  As well as Gourmet Club, where they would get together with friends for themed food evenings and fun.  The couple enjoyed their travels to visit family and friends to Arkansas, Arizona, Wyoming, MInnesota, and New England.  They also enjoyed many day trips with close friends.  

During the last couple years, Pam and Bill moved to Minnesota, to be closer to their daughter Julie and her family, where they were able to have some great family gatherings.  Pam also loved her shopping time with Julie and would always call it “Driving Miss Daisy” time.

Pam’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her well, but her memory will forever remain as she will not soon be forgotten.  She is survived by her husband William, daughter Julie (Ben) Safratowich, stepson Jeffrey (Lynne) Ferguson, stepson Michael (Bev) Ferguson, sister Sandra (Tuinstra) Pearson, brother Michael (Barb) Tuinstra, step grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great step grandchildren, great nieces and nephews (the Tuinstra “Littles”).

She was preceded in death by her parents Donald and Erma Tuinstra.

There will be an open house Celebration of Life on Sunday May 26th from 2-4pm, with a brief service at 3pm, at the Safratowich residence: 2725 Westcliffe Dr, Burnsville, MN 55306. Please wear shades of blue, as blue was her favorite color and she loved the lakes and water.

Pam was as positive as anyone could be during her battle with cancer.  She was always generous, caring and kind to those around her.  In lieu of flowers, please do an act of kindness today in her honor.