Lisa Ann Riepe Cicha (Riepe), 64, of Isanti, Minnesota passed away peacefully, outside at her home, surrounded by loved ones and bird’s songs on September 3, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 3rd at St. Francis United Methodist Church, located at 3914 – 229th Ave NW, St Francis, MN with a visiting time from 9:00-11:00 am.
One of Lisa’s passions was to help school aged students succeed. In Lisa’s memory, memorials are preferred to Cedar Creek K-12 Outreach fund. https://makingagift.umn.edu/give/fund.html?id=23840
Lisa was born on September 9, 1961 in Saint Paul to Alice and Norbert Riepe. She graduated from Stillwater High School and University of Wisconsin River Falls.
Lisa’s work within the public school system as a special education para and an American Indian Education Liaison is proof of her ever burning desire to give all children a fair chance to succeed.
Lisa’s far-reaching compassion, love of the outdoors, overwhelming generosity, and hugs will be missed by her husband, Douglas Cicha, her children, Jarrod Cicha (Josie Kahlenbeck), Olivia, O’Meara (Mike), and Calvin Goemann (Hannah); her two grandchildren; and many others.
Thoughts and many prayers to Doug and the family . So glad we came to see Lisa last week . God bless
I am one of Lisa’s AIE students, she was one of the most wonderful people you’ll ever meet. I was so heartbroken when I found out the news. God bless her and her family.
My dear friend Lisa, you were such a constant in my life for 50+ years, from high school on. Did I tell you how much I loved and admired you? I will miss your laughter, and your common sense, and the way you always managed to dance close to the stage, especially if the Suburbs were playing! You chose paths that put you where you were needed most, and walked them with style, conviction . . . maybe a pair of cat-eye sunglasses. Even now I can close my eyes and hear your low-voiced, “Jul . . .” as if a juicy secret was about to be shared. I could always hear your smile. Lisa, I love you still and I will never forget you, my dear old friend.
Back in 2002 our family moved to East Bethel, and shortly after joined the Boy scouts.
At one of the first scouting events, we sat at a table with our son and the Cicha family came over sat on the opposite side of the table and said hi welcome to the scouting.
I remember the beautiful smiles that the family had especially Lisa’s.
This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship between our families and continues to be.
Lisa, you will be forever in our hearts and we cherish the times we had together.
Love, Brian and LeeAnn Nelson
Lisa was a key player at my Industrial Hygiene Company so many years ago. Taught my daughter ‘Lisa’ the dark arts of microscopic asbestos counting and mitigation oversight. We all loved her Minnesota style. We have lost a great spirit and true friend.
Lisa worked with me and a wonderful group of Minnesotans and Californians on a large industrial hygiene project for the Long Beach Naval shipyard in the early 80s. She was always a bright star on the team and a great friend. I am sad that she is gone at such a young age. My heart felt sympathies for her family and friends.
Truly sad to hear this. Lisa was always welcoming with a gracious smile. Rest in peace Lisa.
I always looked forward to getting to see Lisa in the halls of St Francis High School. I am devastated to hear this news. Especially for her family. The AIE program has been so blessed to be able to work with her for the time we had. Thank you Lisa, you will be deeply missed.
I enjoyed my time with Lisa working with our students in St. Francis. She was a bright light with a calm demeanor. She loved her students and brought them so much knowledge and love for learning. You are so missed. Rest in Peace my friend.
I worked alongside Lisa for several years as a para. She always went that extra step & made me feel seen and appreciated with her kind and loving nature. She was amazing with the kids and showed up every day pouring into each child she was assigned to. She will be missed dearly.
I’m so sorry to hear of Lisa’s passing. I have fond memories of working with her as a para. Sending my prayers to all who lost her.
Dear Big Sister Lisa,
Even though we didn’t see each other much in this life, you have made a mark on the Dhillon family. Thank you beyond words for bringing my Big Sis Stacey to California and into my life. You are forever in my heart. Your beautiful smile and your kindness will be missed. I Love You 💓!