With profound sadness we regret the passing of Crystal Jean Tammaro Latvaaho, age 41, of Fayal township on December 28, 2024.  She died peacefully after a courageous battle with breast cancer, with her devoted parents and faithful dog, Poppy, by her side.

            Crystal was born December 31, 1982, in Virginia, MN, the daughter of Anthony “Lee” and Debbie (Spartz) Tammaro.  As a young child, she lived in Northfield and Buffalo, MN, until moving to Fayal township in 1989.  She was a graduate of Eveleth High School and Eveleth Vocational College.  Crystal worked for 23 years at Essentia Healthcare, starting as a dietary aid and working her way up to Nutrition Services Supervisor.  She was an adored co-worker and employee.

            She was married to Jeff Wudnich on July 16, 2005, in Tower, MN until their divorce.  She was later married to Jason Latvaaho on August 12, 2008, until their divorce in August 2024.

            Crystal enjoyed thrift shopping, rock hunting, bingo, camping, fishing, traveling, crocheting, reading, and making gifts.  She mostly enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially her grandson Carson.

            The strength and courage she displayed throughout her illness was surpassed only by the strength of the love she had for her family and friends.  Unapologetically true to herself, she lived life on her own terms and to the fullest, never afraid to do the right thing or speak her mind.  Generous and loyal, there were no limits to the length she would go for family or friend.  She will forever be remembered for her zest for life, her compassion, humor, wit, and sass.  She will be deeply missed by all those lucky enough to have known her.

            Crystal is survived by her parents: Anthony and Debbie Tammaro of Fayal; sister: Amanda (Ted) Grishaber; niece: Taia Grishaber; nephew: Anthony Grishaber, all of Virginia; stepdaughters: Haley and Lauren Latvaaho of Eveleth;  grandson: Carson Latvaaho of Eveleth; aunts and uncles: Jim and Kelly Nelson (Godparents), Connie Udovich, Brenda Baasi, Jeff, Gene, Carl, and Kimberly Spartz; numerous cousins; and many friends including her “besties” Jen Champa and Shenae Rees, both of Virginia; and her beloved dog, Poppy, who never left her side.

            Crystal was preceded in death by her grandparents: Robert and Nanney Tammaro, and Warren and Carol Spartz; and aunt: Bonnie Tammaro.

            A Celebration of Life is planned for 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Virginia Elks Club (218 N 5th Ave, Virginia, MN, 55792).  Private inurnment will be at a later date in the Forbes Cemetery.

            The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Keith Peterson, Heather Manninen, and the entire hospice staff for their compassionate care.

            Family services are provided by Bauman-Cron, a Bauman Family funeral Home, in Virginia.  To share condolences online please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.