Linda Ann (Rowe) Illies, 64, of Belgrade, MN passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar, MN. 

She was born on December 10, 1961, in Bromley, England. She lived in England before moving with her parents to Kingston, Ontario, Canada at the age of three. Linda often spoke fondly of her upbringing in Canada and cherished the values and sense of community she gained there. 

Linda attended Regiopolis Notre Dame High School in Kingston. She later pursued a career as a Professional Driver, a role she loved deeply. Her work brought her immense joy and fulfillment; not only because of the job itself but also because of the connections she formed with her colleagues. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, Linda’s passion for her work and the people she encountered remained a defining part of her life.

Linda married the love of her life, Georgina Illies, on September 19, 2013, at the Stearns County Courthouse in St. Cloud, MN. Their union was a testament to love and partnership. They shared 20 happy years together. 

As a woman of strong faith, Linda was raised Catholic and was baptized in England and made her First Communion and Confirmation at Our Lady of the Lourdes Church in Kingston. Her faith remained an integral part of her life. She prayed for God’s Will daily and found comfort in her spirituality. Linda received The Last Rites at the hospital before passing away. 

Linda was an active and vibrant individual who embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved animals. She enjoyed her travels to numerous countries, laughing with friends, sharing stories and traditions from England and Canada, going out to eat at Olive Garden, gardening, diy projects, music, concerts, being outside in the sun and sitting by the ocean. She had a deep love for sports, particularly in playing hockey, skating and cross-country skiing. She loved watching the Winter Olympics. She was an avid fan of the Canadian Women’s Hockey team, Montreal Canadiens, MN Vikings, MN Frost, MN Lynx, U.S. Women’s Soccer team, Women’s College Basketball, University of North Carolina Baseball and St. Cloud ROX Baseball. 

Her compassion extended beyond her personal interests. As a dedicated member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 38 years, Linda not only maintained her own sobriety but also devoted herself to helping others find hope and a better way to live. Her commitment to this left an indelible mark on countless lives. 

Linda is survived by her wife Georgina Illies; brother Andrew Rowe; sister Theresa (Frank) Vyse; half sister Amanda (Julie) Powers; aunts Catherine Tubman, Margaret Callaghan and Molly (Ronald) Wilson; brothers-in-law Gerald Illies and Gregory Illies; sister-in-law Jennifer Illies; as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, great nieces and a great-nephew. She also leaves behind many dear friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity. 

She was predeceased by her parents James Rowe and Agnes Ann (Callaghan) Rowe; brother Kevin Rowe; brother-in-law John Illies; father-in-law Eugene Illies and sister-in-law Shane Illies.

Linda’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. She had a loving spirit, compassion for others and a zest for life. May those who mourn her find comfort in remembering the joy she brought into their lives. 

There will be a service at the Belgrade Nursing Home on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Linda Illies to Broken Roads Ranch. brokenroadsranch@gmail.com