Marie (Lambert) Cardinal

Marie Cardinal (Lambert) age 86, of Harris, formerly of Vadnais Heights, passed away December 28, 2025; after a short battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love from her devoted husband and family as she peacefully entered her eternal life in Heaven. She is preceded in death by her parents; Robert and Rose Lambert and siblings; Paul, George, Anita, and Jean Paul. She is survived by her husband Donald Cardinal of Harris, MN; her children: Pam Yorkson, Rob (Andie) Cardinal, Dawn Cardinal and Joe Hall, and Rick (Tina) Cardinal; and many Grand Children and Great-Grand Children. Her siblings; Helen & Lynn Sprague, and Irene Berch. She is also survived by many other family and friends. Marie was a member of the Vadnais Heights Woman’s Auxiliary.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans).

Marie was a strong, brave and adventurous woman. She was born in the small town of Berlin, New Hampshire, and grew up in West Brook, Maine. As a young woman, she met Donald, fell in love, married on February 11, 1961, and courageously moved halfway across the country to build a life and raise a family together.

Her unwavering love and support made her a devoted wife and loving mother. Marie’s sense of humor was a treasured gift that brought joy and laughter to her family and friends.

Marie had many talents and passions, including baking, crocheting, knitting, gardening, and canning. She also loved spending time with her girlfriends-shopping, having lunch, or going to Bingo-especially during her years living in Vadnais Heights. There was nothing she couldn’t do in the kitchen. The birthday cakes she made were always special and unforgettable. Her Whoopie Pies, made from a cherished family recipe handed down through generations, were eagerly fought over by her children, even into adulthood. Her pies-those delicious pies, especially Apple, Rhubarb Cream and Green Tomato-were truly the very best. Though humble, Marie knew her baking was exceptional and she took great pride in sharing it with others.

Marie had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel special. Her generosity and kindness knew no bounds, and she had a natural gift for caring for others. Whenever someone needed her, she was always there.

She enjoyed many adventures throughout her life, including snowmobiling in various places, fishing on the northern lakes of Minnesota, and traveling. She especially cherished her trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and Australia.

Marie faithfully wrote letters to family and friends, keeping close connections across the miles.

Above all else, Marie was a loving wife, devoted partner, and best friend to Donald for more that 65 years. She was a wonderful mother to their children, a caring sister, and a beloved daughter. Marie was a strong believer in God, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her as she now spends eternal life in Heaven.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026 at St. Mary of the Lake Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, WBL, with visitation an hour prior at the church on Thursday and 4-7 PM on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026 at Mueller Memorial-4738 Bald Eagle Ave, WBL. For those who are unable to attend in person, Marie's Mass will be live streamed on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, follow this Link: St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church Funeral Service Live Stream Links to the church website to view the Mass.