Julianne (Julie) Kristine Hill (Burns), born on April 18, 1968, to Jim and Judy Burns in Edina, Minnesota. She was a beloved daughter, devoted wife, cherished mother, and dear friend to many. She peacefully passed away on April 21, 2024, at the age of 56 after a fearless battle with lobular breast cancer. Julianne's life was defined by her unwavering faith and her selfless dedication to serving others. She was a beacon of light, always extending a helping hand and sharing the love of Jesus Christ with those in need. Her presence illuminated the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Julie graduated from Washburn High School in Minneapolis. A highlight of her senior year was volleyball team co-captain and participation in the state tournament. Julie's post-secondary education was at Normandale Community College and University of Minnesota.

Julie was united in marriage to Rodney Hill on October 29, 1994, at Knox Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis. They have two children Gavin (22) and Greta (19).

They made their first home in Isanti, MN, living there for 11 years before moving to Willmar, MN, following Rodney's job change. It was in Willmar where they lived for 8 years and Julie not only homeschooled her children, but also took on the role of caregiver for her mother-in-law, Edie, who was afflicted by paralysis due to a stroke. Julie provided 24/7 loving care for Edie with the help of her husband, sister-in-law Linda a few times, and a hired outside caregiver until Edie passed away, just before the family's move to Stratford / Marshfield, WI, where the family resides today.

Julie's early work career consisted of an event planning associate working for metroConnections in Minneapolis. She enjoyed hosting different clients for various events, some notable ones being the Super Bowl XXVI and 1991 U.S. Open. From there, she moved on to the Minnesota Independent Insurance Agents (MIIA) office working as a Membership Service Director. The position at MIIA gave her the groundwork to land a position as a Marketing Representative for Superior Employers Plan & Michigan Physicians Mutual Liability Co. where she traveled and provided personal service to insurance agents in northern Minnesota. When Julie started having children she was compelled to be near home and not travel. She took a position as an engineering support technical writer, working with her friend Marilyn for Power System Engineering (PSE). This job was particularly fulfilling as it allowed her the flexibility to be close to her children, demonstrating her commitment to balancing professional pursuits with her role as a mother.

Julie's greatest joy was found in her role as a mother. She lovingly homeschooled her children until their early teenage years before releasing them into public high school and instilled in them a love for learning. Julie understood the importance of her children's individual learning styles and was able to intertwine academics while infusing the value of life lessons, and the importance of having fun in the learning process. These have carried over into her children's higher education, professional life, and friendships.

Julie had a love for top tier foods – this compelled her to become a catering foodie, only focusing on small scale venues with exquisite food and elegant presentation. She added an additional flair as she provided well designed decorations some which were purchased in Germany on her travels there. Her keen eye and ability to decorate made it a Joyful experience for her. Her cousin Sandy helped her formulate ideas for her catering business in which they became kindred spirits, sharpening each other's culinary skills. Julie successfully orchestrated the delicious food in concert for five church dinner theater performances in Minnesota and one in Wisconsin all coordinated by her Worship Leader friend Barry.

Julie found immense joy in coaching and guiding many children, including her own. She coached in competitive Bible quizzing which fostered a deep-rooted understanding and passion for Scripture among the youth in both the Willmar, MN and Stratford/Marshfield, WI areas.

Julie's vibrant personality and deep faith led her to develop a wide network of friendships, many of which were forged through the Bible studies she attended. Her profound knowledge of God's word was often marveled at by members of those studies, who have spoken many kind words about her spiritual insight and guidance.

Another of Julie's loves was reading. Her daily routine was reading and studying God's word. Her wide range of reading kept her informed & knowledgeable of many topics. a passion reflected on her extensive shelf of books. She instilled this love for reading in her children, and some of her happiest moments were when they all reclined together, each with a book in hand.

Julie's love for music was another significant aspect of her life. She found immense joy in singing with church worship teams, church choir, and community chamber chorales. She was blessed with the opportunity to perform in a theatrical production depicting the life of Jesus Christ called "The Promise." Julie's voice was angelic, complementing her beautiful smile and her heart's desire to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. At family gatherings with her maternal Harms family or the Hill cousins, singing was a happy occasion for her. She also shared a common interest in various music genres with her husband and children - attending concerts with some of her favorite artists like James Taylor, Josh Groban, Lionel Ritchie, and performances such as Phantom of the Opera and Mamma Mia! musical. With her children, concerts by Toby Mac, Ed Sheeran, Charlie Puth, and Taylor Swift with her beloved daughter Greta.

Julie became interested in the many benefits of essential oils (EO) after extensive reading and conversation with her friend Judy, she became a distributor for Young Living Essential Oils. She captured the attention of her family and friends on how EO can enhance physical wellness, emotional uplifting, purify your home, and be an excellent replacement to harsh chemicals

Julianne leaves behind, until meeting them in Heaven one day, her husband Rodney, her son Gavin, daughter Greta, her parents James and Judy Burns of Woodbury, MN; three brothers, Joel Burns and his wife JoAnn of Woodbury, MN, Sam Burns of St. Paul, MN, and Louie Burns of Minnetonka, MN; sister-in-law Linda Hill of Bemidji, MN, and a special nephew who Julie cared for a short while, Mitchell Hill and his wife Karie. Julie is survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces & nephews, and cousins.

Julie is proceeded in death by her father-in-law Lewis Hill mother-in-law Edith Hill, nephew Elliot Burns, sister-in-law Kristie Quintana Burns, both paternal and maternal grandparents, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

To honor Julie, a Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be:

• Date: Saturday, May 18

• Visitation: 1:00 PM

• Service: 2:00 PM

• Location: First Evangelical Free Church (aka First Free), 5150 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417

• Reception: A luncheon reception and time of sharing will be held in the lower level / gym of the church following the service.

In honoring the memory of Julie Hill, her family requests that any memorial contributions be made to the "Julie Hill Medical Bill Relief Fund." This fund, created at Julie's request, was established to help alleviate the financial burden of her medical expenses.

Julie expressed that she was not too proud to convey the need for this fund and deeply appreciated the support of those willing to contribute. Your kindness and generosity are warmly welcomed and cherished.

A live stream link will be provided for long-distance friends and relatives. Details will be shared as they become available.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time.  Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS