‘She was my No. 1 elf’

Roxy the elf is gone, but her memories live on with Santa Claus.

The death of Roxy Stordahl, 57, of Owatonna was a shock to those who knew her. Well known as the partner of local Santa John Stordahl, Roxy died on May 24 of a brain aneurysm.

John Stordahl said he must continue the work of Santa Claus and continue the strength that his No. 1 elf continues to give him. He already has had some gigs as Santa. His eyes brighten when he talks about a recent stop at McDonald’s.

“The big guy is in the house,” announced a McDonald’s employee.

“That’s really Santa,” the cashier said. He then gave Santa a bag of chocolate chip cookies.

Stordahl also has had many gifts donated to him that will be re-gifted to needy kids.

“It was a very humbling experience,” he said.

Santa has been seen all around the Steele County area, thanks to Stordahl. He has worked with a Blooming Prairie photographer who took photographs of Santa with people's pets. Last year, he visited the Infants Remembered in Silence group, which honors infants who have died during the past year.

Two years ago, the Times interviewed Stordahl as he prepared to visit with his favorite children. This year, we invited Santa to talk about his favorite elf, Roxy. Here are his replies to a questionnaire sent to him:

How has your life changed since you lost Roxy?

It is extremely lonely and quiet. It was very difficult to lose not only your wife but your best friend and lover. We did everything together. She was my strength and buffer between me and adversity. It’s something you never get over, your coping skills improve as time goes on.

Do you agree with that?

No, because certain sounds, like songs or certain smells, like perfume, will always bring up the past with her.

How has your faith helped with thinking of Roxy?

My belief in God has helped me so much. I pray every day for guidance and strength. If I didn’t have Jesus in my life, I couldn’t cope with this situation.

Roxy touched many people. Why was that?

It was because of her happy and genuine personality. Very open and honest. Always accepted you for who and what you are. She was willing to listen.

She helped you as Santa. How?

She was my No. 1 elf. She always was with me because she loved kids so much. She loved being with me and loved the way I handled the children.’

Why do you love being Santa’s helper?

I am Santa.

Roxy liked kids, why did they like her?

Her children and grandchildren were her life. She treated all children with love and kindness. Always patient and understanding, they knew they could trust her.

How will you spend Christmas this year without Roxy?

It’s going to be very different, very lonely. Roxy loved Christmas and all the decorations. I just don’t have the inspiration to do this without her.