Rachel Reabe Nystrom

October 9, 1954 – July 5, 2025

Rachel Reabe Nystrom, a trailblazing journalist, devoted public servant, cherished mother and Oma, and beloved friend to many, passed away on July 5, 2025, at the age of 70. After an 11-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, the disease took much from her, but it never took her faith in Jesus Christ.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, on October 9, 1954, Rachel’s life was defined by deep compassion, a powerful sense of purpose, and an unshakable belief in community. Growing up, her family spent their summers on the edge of the BWCA in Ely, MN. She graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School in Prairie Village, Kansas, in 1972. She attended Bemidji State University from 1972 to 76, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Radio Broadcasting.

Her first job after college was as the Information Director for Bemidji schools from 1976 to 1978. Her first role in radio journalism came when she landed a job as the News Director of KLIZ AM-FM in 1978 and was responsible for producing four foremost newscasts daily, oversaw news operation, anchored live broadcasts of special events, hosted a morning talk show five days a week, and was a stringer for NBC, UPI, and Gopher State Network. This was a time when cell phones, social media, and personal computers were not yet in use. Many people in the Brainerd Lakes Area would wake to her voice giving the news first thing in the morning, followed by her daily talk show on air. She later joined Minnesota Public Radio to host Main Street Radio, where her thoughtful storytelling, authentic reporting, and commitment to always asking tough questions earned her a loyal audience across the state. Her outstanding contributions to 30 years of radio journalism were recognized when Bemidji State University selected her for the 2004 Outstanding Alumni Award.

She was most at home when she was the one asking the questions, but after her reporting career, which covered numerous meetings of boards and councils, she decided to run for Crow Wing County Commissioner, District 3. She won that 2006 election by fewer than 100 votes! She approached public leadership with heart, intelligence, and integrity. Rachel believed that there were always two sides to an issue and worked hard on compromise and worked with both sides to reach the best conclusion. Nystrom served on 21 committees, in addition to the personnel committee, as well as the Kitchigami Regional Library, Brainerd Lakes Area Sex Trafficking Task Force, Minnesota Extension, public health preparedness, and the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport Commission. She was named chair of the statewide think tank FUTURES for innovative government, for the Association of Minnesota Counties. While serving, the County was recognized nationally for clean water regulations, ensuring local lakes and rivers will remain clean and healthy.

Rachel loved to travel around the world. She led 10 trips to Israel, leading groups through the Holy Land to study God’s word and see the actual places where Jesus, Paul, and the 12 disciples had ministered. She made many dear friends through these trips, and as a Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) leader for many years, she also had the opportunity to mentor other women and host local interview clinics.

Of all her accomplishments, Rachel was most proud of being a mom and Oma. She poured her love into raising her children—Thor Nystrom, Will (Katie) Nystrom, and Quinn Nystrom Bobich (Paul)—and took immeasurable joy in her grandchildren, Lilly, Sophie, and Beau. She shared 44 years of marriage with her husband, Robert (Bob) Nystrom.

She is survived by her siblings Robin Reabe, Roxane Reabe, and Gordon “Buck” Reabe, and is now reunited in heaven with her parents, Gordon and Ruth Reabe.

Rachel’s legacy is one of faith, storytelling, and service. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who carry her memory forward.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Minnesota Public Radio or to Team Rachel’s Rebels for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Brainerd, in honor of Rachel’s lifelong commitment to storytelling, community, and compassion.

Visitation Open House: Sunday, July 13,

Brenny Family Funeral Chapel

7348 Excelsior Road, Baxter, MN 56425

• 4:00–6:00 p.m.

Celebration of Life: Monday, July 14

Lakewood Evangelical Free Church

6284 Fairview Rd, Baxter, MN 56425

• 10:00 a.m. Visitation
• 11:00 a.m. Memorial Service
• 12:00 p.m. Luncheon
• 1:15 p.m. Processional and Burial